bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Directional and Ultrafast Charge Transfer in Oxygen‐Vacancy‐Rich ZnO@Single‐Atom Cobalt Core‐Shell Junction for Photo‐Fenton‐Like Reaction
Authors: Wu Xi‐Lin , Liu Shiang , Li Yu , Yan Minjia , Lin Hongjun , Chen Jianrong , Liu Shoujie , Wang Shaobin , Duan Xiaoguang
Published: May 2023

In photosynthesis, solar energy is harvested by photosensitizers, and then, the excited electrons transfer via a Z‐Scheme mode to enzymatic catalytic centers to trigger redox reactions. Herein, we constructed a core–shell Z‐scheme heterojunction of semiconductor@single‐atom catalysts (SACs). The oxygen‐vacancy‐rich ZnO core and single‐atom Co−N4 sites supported on nitrogen‐rich carbon shell (SA‐Co‐CN) act as the photosensitizer and the enzyme‐mimicking active centers, respectively. Driven by built‐in electric field across the heterojunction, photoexcited electrons could rapidly (2 ps) transfer from the n‐type ZnO core to the p‐type SA‐Co‐CN shell, finally boosting the catalytic performance of the surface‐exposed single‐atom Co−N4 sites for peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation under light irradiation. The synergies between photocatalysis and heterogeneous Fenton‐like reaction lead to phenomenally enhanced production of various reactive oxygen species for rapid degradation of various microcontaminants in water. Experimental and theoretical results validate that the interfacial coupling of SA‐Co‐CN with ZnO greatly facilitates PMS adsorption and activation by reducing the adsorption energy and enhancing the cascade electron transfer processes for the photo‐Fenton‐like reaction.
Achieving Digital Catalysis: Strategies for Data Acquisition, Storage and Use
Authors: Marshall Clara Patricia , Schumann Julia , Trunschke Annette
Published: May 2023

Heterogeneous catalysis is an important area of research that generates data as intricate as the phenomenon itself. Complexity is inherently coupled to the function of the catalyst and advance in knowledge can only be achieved if this complexity is adequately captured and accounted for. This requires integration of experiment and theory, high data quality and quality control, close interdisciplinary collaboration, and sharing of data and metadata, which is facilitated by the application of joint data management strategies. This Viewpoint Article first discusses the potential of a digital transition in catalysis research. Then, a summary of the current status in terms of data infrastructure in heterogeneous catalysis is presented, defining the various types of (meta‐) data, from catalyst synthesis to functional analysis. Finally, an already implemented working concept for local data acquisition and storage is introduced and the benefits and further development directions for catalysis data use and sharing are discussed.
Experimental study on the plugging and profile control of preformed particle gels in high temperature and salinity reservoir
Authors: Fan Huancai , Pu Wanfen , Du Daijun , Xu Mengsheng , Chen Lan , Xu Liang , Jin Fayang
Published: May 2023

A novel modified polysaccharide composite preformed particle gel (MCPG) was synthesized as a profile control agent to improve the situation of high water cut and low oil recovery. Then, the structure of MCPG was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM). Subsequently, the impact of MCPG on enhanced oil recovery was investigated through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and core displacement experiments. The results of FTIR, XRD, and ESEM indicate that monomers have been successfully intercalated into the layered structure of nanoscale sodium bentonite. In the condition of 130°C and salinity of 240,000 mg/L, the value of the swelling ratio and the toughness factor can reach about 30 and 0.87, respectively. The results of nonlinear fitting indicate that the relationship between the resistance coefficient and residual resistance coefficient with the matching coefficient (β) followed a power function, while the blocking water efficiency with β followed an exponential function. When the permeability ratio was as high as 30.58, MCPG still exhibited excellent profile improvement performance. NMR experiments proved that MCPG increased the displacement resistance in large pores and effectively enhanced the displacement efficiency in medium pores and small pores. The oil displacement efficiency in MCPG flooding and subsequent water flooding stages increased by 18.65% and 8.42%, respectively.
Tracing the spatial organization and activity zones of an Early Mediaeval homestead at the Pohansko stronghold (Czechia) by combining geophysics and geochemical mapping
Authors: Prišťáková Michaela , Adameková Katarína , Petřík Jan , Dresler Petr , Prokeš Lubomír
Published: May 2023

Geoarchaeological prospection techniques were applied to identify activity zones and the inner structure of a homestead at the Early Mediaeval site Pohansko near Břeclav (Czechia). By a combination of geophysical methods, the spatial distribution of microartefacts, geochemical analysis and multivariate statistical analysis, we outlined various manifestations of anthropogenic activity. We examined obtained data by Spearman's correlation coefficient, spatial autocorrelation (Global Moran's I) and robust Principal component analysis to identify the spatial pattern of the area. Recognized joint presence of heavy metals (Pb, Zn and Cu) and elements related mostly to organic matter, waste and ashes (S, P and Ca) as well as a small number of slag fragments probably indicate presence of metalworking zones or mixed zones with domestic and industrial debris at the homestead. Further anthropogenic activities could be connected to manuring, animal management or some kind of production activities based on the presence of Mn, P and Cu. Bone and charcoal concentrations supplement the information of geochemical analysis and may indicate the manner of waste management in the peripheral parts of the homestead. In the middle of the homestead, the location of archaeological features indicates an open space in which no specific activity was detected. By means of magnetic susceptibility and judging from the presence of daub, we defined the potential presence of non‐sunken features, which were not recognized by magnetometry. The outcome of the study is yet to be verified by excavation.
Dopamine transporter binding in the brain is linked to irritable bowel syndrome in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Murtomäki Kirsi , Joutsa Juho , Mertsalmi Tuomas , Jaakkola Elina , Mäkinen Elina , Levo Reeta , Eklund Mikael , Nuuttila Simo , Pekkonen Eero , Noponen Tommi , Ihalainen Toni , Kaasinen Valtteri , Scheperjans Filip
Published: May 2023

Background

Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in Parkinson's disease (PD), but their neurophysiological correlates are not well understood. We recently reported that functional gastrointestinal symptoms were not associated with asymmetry per se but might be associated with lower left striatal dopamine transporter (DAT) binding. The purpose of this study was to further investigate if specific gastrointestinal symptoms associate with monoamine transporter changes in specific striatal or extrastriatal areas.

Methods

Ninety PD patients, who underwent DAT ¹23I‐FP‐CIT SPECT imaging, were assessed using the MDS‐Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III, Rome III, and Wexner constipation score. DAT binding was calculated from striatal subregions using region‐to‐occipital cortex ratio. Voxel‐wise analysis was used to assess the relationship between gastrointestinal symptoms and striatal DAT and extrastriatal serotonin transporter (SERT) binding.

Results

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) criteria were fulfilled in 17 patients and were linked to higher ¹23I‐FP‐CIT binding in the right posterior putamen and adjacent areas as compared to patients without IBS. No other significant associations between gastrointestinal symptoms and DAT or SERT binding were found.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that PD patients with IBS may have higher DAT binding in the right hemisphere. This finding implicates alterations of brain neurotransmitter physiology in the gastrointestinal symptoms of PD patients.
Added value of molecular karyotype in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Camuset Margaux , Le Calvez Baptiste , Theisen Olivier , Godon Catherine , Grain Audrey , Thomas Caroline , Couec Marie‐Laure , Béné Marie C. , Rialland Fanny , Eveillard Marion
Published: June 2023

Background

Thanks to an improved therapeutic regimen in childhood B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP‐ALL), 5 year‐overall survival now exceeds 90%. Unfortunately, the 25% of children who relapse have an initial poor prognosis, potentially driven by pre‐existing or emerging molecular anomalies. The latter are initially and essentially identified by cytogenetics. However, some subtle alterations are not visible through karyotyping.

Methods

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) array is an alternative way of chromosomal analysis allowing for a more in‐depth evaluation of chromosomal modifications such as the assessment of copy number alterations (CNA) and loss of heterozygosity (LOH). This method was applied here in retrospective diagnosis/relapse paired samples from seven children with BCP‐ALL and in a prospective cohort of 38 newly diagnosed childhood cases.

Results

In the matched study, compared to the initial karyotype, SNP array analysis reclassified two patients as poor prognosis cases. Modulation during relapse was seen for 4 CNA and 0.9 LOH. In the prospective study, SNP reclassified the 10 patients with intermediate karyotype as 7 good prognosis and 3 poor prognosis. Ultimately, in all the children tested, SNP array allowed to identify additional anomalies compared to conventional karyotype, refine its prognostic value and identify some druggable anomalies that could be used for precision medicine. Overall, the anomalies detected could be segregated in four groups respectively involved in B‐cell development, cell proliferation, transcription and molecular pathways.

Conclusion

SNP therefore appears to be a method of choice in the integrated diagnosis of BCP ALL, especially for patients initially classified as intermediate prognosis. This complementary method of both cytogenetics and high throughput sequencing allows to obtain further classified information and can be useful in case of failure of these techniques.
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors in HER2‐positive breast cancer brain metastases: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yu Yushuai , Huang Kaiyan , Lin Yuxiang , Zhang Jie , Song Chuangui
Published: May 2023

Background

Small tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) show activity against breast cancer brain metastases (BCBM) of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)‐positive subtype. This meta‐analysis aimed to objectively explore the efficacy and safety of TKIs.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for relevant clinical trials. We conducted a pairwise meta‐analysis, pooled analysis, and estimated summary survival curves to compare survival outcomes following TKIs therapy for BCBM patients using Stata version 16.0 or R x64 4.0.5.

Results

Thirteen clinical trials involving 987 HER2‐positive BCBM patients were analyzed. A trend of longer progression‐free survival (PFS) was observed in the TKI‐containing arm compared to the non‐TKI‐containing arm (hazard ratio = 0.64, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.35–1.15, p = 0.132), although the difference is not statistically significant. Summary survival curves reported the summary median PFS and overall survival were 7.9 months and 12.3 months. Subgroup analysis revealed that TKIs combined with capecitabine (TKI + Cap) regimens resulted in improved survival outcomes. Tucatinib may be more effective in BCBM patients. The main grade 3–5 adverse events (AEs) were diarrhea (22%, 95% CI: 14%–32%), neutropenia (11%, 95% CI: 5%–18%), hepatic toxicity (7%, 95% CI: 1%–16%), and sensory neuropathy (6%, 95% CI: 2%–12%).

Conclusion

TKIs therapy improved the survival outcomes of HER2‐positive BCBM patients, especially when combined with capecitabine and tolerable AEs. We also identified the clinical value of tucatinib, which appears to be the most favorable TKI drug for BCBM patients.
The Effect of γ Phosphate Modified Deoxynucleotide Substrates on PCR Activity and Fidelity
Authors: Hashiya Fumitaka , Murase Hirotaka , Chandela Akash , Hiraoka Haruka , Inagaki Masahito , Nakashima Yuko , Abe Naoko , Nakamura Mayu , Terai Goro , Kimura Yasuaki , Ando Kaori , Oka Natsuhisa , Asai Kiyoshi , Abe Hiroshi
Published: May 2023

Controlling PCR fidelity is an important issue for molecular biology and high‐fidelity PCR is essential for gene cloning. In general, fidelity control is achieved by protein engineering of polymerases. In contrast, only a few studies have reported controlling fidelity using chemically modified nucleotide substrates. In this report, we synthesized nucleotide substrates possessing a modification on Pγ and evaluated the effect of this modification on PCR fidelity. One of the substrates, nucleotide tetraphosphate, caused a modest decrease in Taq DNA polymerase activity and the effect on PCR fidelity was dependent on the type of mutation. The use of deoxyadenosine tetraphosphate enhanced the A : T→G : C mutation dramatically, which is common when using Taq polymerase. Conversely, deoxyguanosine tetraphosphate (dG4P) suppressed this mutation but increased the G : C→A : T mutation during PCR. Using an excess amount of dG4P suppressed both mutations successfully and total fidelity was improved.
N‐(aminobenzyliden)phthalimides as a New Redox Mediator Family for the Selective Indirect Reduction of Benzyl or Allyl Halides
Authors: Patiño‐Alonzo Erick S. , Barroso‐Flores Joaquín , Frontana‐Uribe Bernardo A.
Published: June 2023

The chemical stability of the electrogenerated radical anion of N‐(aminobenzyl) phthalimide 1 in aprotic organic media at room temperature is reported in this work. The redox couples 1/1⋅− and its imine precursor 2/2⋅− can carry out reductive redox catalysis of benzyl or allyl halides indirectly. This reaction gives easy access to reactive alkyl radicals, which in the presence of diethyl fumarate yields 2‐benzylsuccinate diethyl ester in moderate yields; this reaction is unattainable by direct electrochemical reduction. Spin density calculations at the DFT level of theory showed that the spin density of 1⋅− and 2⋅− is located on the phtalimide ring, and a dimeric association was evidenced (Eint=23.47 kcal/mol and Eint=80.42 kcal/mol respectively), via π−π stacking interactions. The redox mediators presented here showed good functional group selectivity, redox potential tunability and easy preparation from readily available commercial materials with excellent yields.
Fault diagnosis of complex chemical process based on multi‐scale ADCRC feature learning
Authors: Yang Yinghua , Huang Lei , Yao Dandan , Liu Xiaozhi , Chenxu Li
Published: May 2023

The time series and multi‐scale characteristics of complex industrial process data are always important factors affecting the performance of fault diagnosis. In this study, a new fault diagnosis model based on multi‐scale attention dilated causal residual convolution (ADCRC) is proposed. Aiming at the temporal nature of industrial data, the ADCRC module is developed to extract time series features, in which the ADCRC module is composed of dilated causal convolution (DCC), attention mechanism (AM), and residual connection, DCC is used to extract time series features, AM adjusts the weight of features according to attention distribution to obtain more important feature information, and residual connection is used to enhance the training accuracy of model. For the multi‐scale characteristics of original data, MS‐ADCRC model based on ADCRC module is developed for multi‐scale feature extraction, in which multiple ADCRC modules extract multi‐scale features of data in parallel. Finally, the proposed MS‐ADCRC model is tested on the Tennessee‐Eastman data set. Compared with other existing models, the results show that the proposed MS‐ADCRC model has more advantages in fault diagnosis feature learning.
Trends and factors associated with secondhand smoke exposure among US cancer survivors, 2013–2020
Authors: Wang Ruixuan , LeLaurin Jennifer , Carrier Allison , Churba Benjamin , Karanth Shama , Yoon Hyung‐Suk , Braithwaite Dejana , Salloum Ramzi G. , Hong Young‐Rock
Published: May 2023

Background

Secondhand smoke (SHS) poses a significant public health threat. Cancer survivors are at a greater risk of adverse health outcomes from SHS because of its association with poor prognosis and other downstream clinical events.

Methods

A nationally representative sample of US adults aged 20 years and older was analyzed from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2013 and 2020. Data on indoor SHS exposure were reported by 16,778 adults who were not currently smoking (1775 cancer survivors; 15,003 individuals without a cancer history). The weighted prevalence of SHS exposure was estimated and compared across sociodemographic and health‐related characteristics. Multivariable logistic regression models were fitted to identify correlates of SHS exposure.

Results

Of the 1775 nonsmoking cancer survivors (mean age, 64.9 years; 57.0% female; 84.4% non‐Hispanic Whites), 15.8% reported SHS exposure. No significant change in trends of SHS exposure was observed during the study period. The prevalence of SHS exposure was higher in cancer survivors who were younger, racial minorities, and had a household income below 130% of the federal poverty level. After adjustment for multiple correlates, age below 40 years, low income, smoking history, and diagnosis within 2 years were associated with SHS exposure. Cancer survivors were most likely to report that SHS exposure occurred at home or in a car.

Conclusions

The prevalence of SHS exposure among cancer survivors remained steady in the past decade. However, disparities exist in SHS exposure among cancer survivors across sociodemographic characteristics and smoking status. Smoking cessation programs should be promoted among caregivers and families of cancer survivors.
A new paradigm for classifying and treating HER2‐positive breast cancer
Authors: He Xuexin , Yeung Sai‐Ching J. , Esteva Francisco J.
Published: May 2023

Background

Because of the phenomenal success of treatment with monoclonal antibodies and antibody‐drug conjugates targeting human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), most patients with early‐stage HER2‐positive breast cancer (HER2+ BC) and some with limited metastatic diseases have been cured, and those who have not been cured have achieved significant improvements in overall survival, which has weakened the role of the TNM staging system in the prognosis of HER2+ BC today. Given that the disease is now highly curable, treatment conception, classification, and modalities should differ from those of cancer types with a poor prognosis. It is warranted to build a new paradigm for classifying and treating HER2+ BC.

Recent findings

In our personal view, we suggest that the classification system should be based not only on traditional anatomy and cancer biology but also on available treatment regimens, their exceptional outcomes, and their toxicities. In this regard, we developed a new concise classification of HER2+ BC based on the TNM staging system, a review of the literature, research results, and our clinical experience, dividing the patients into four distinct groups: curable (lymph‐node negative and small (≤3 cm) early breast cancer), do our best to cure (locally advanced or tumors >3 cm early breast cancer), hope for cure (local‐regional recurrent, limited metastases, and exceptional responders), and incurable (metastatic breast cancer with poor performance status or non‐exceptional responders).

Conclusion

It will assist clinicians in developing an optimal treatment regimen at the outset, curing more HER2+ BC patients and improving their quality of life.
Bandwidth and frequency agile MIMO antenna for cognitive vehicular communications
Authors: Natesan Kumaran , Subramaniam Ramesh , Sivathanu Chitra
Published: May 2023

A reconfigurable MIMO antenna for heterogeneous vehicular networks is reported in this paper. The frequency and bandwidth characteristics of the MIMO antenna can be reconfigured to meet multi‐standard and multi‐frequency requirements in automobiles. The antenna element evolved from an edge‐chamfered ultra‐wideband (UWB) antenna operating from 2.1 to >15 GHz. The bandwidth reconfiguration is achieved through the selection of excitation paths connecting the feed and radiator. The feedline selection is performed using PIN diodes, making the antenna operate in three distinct modes, namely, UWB mode (Mode 1: 2.1–>15 GHz), industrial, scientific and medical/Internet of Things (ISM/IoT) mode (Mode 2: 2.45 GHz), and wireless local area network (WLAN) mode (Mode 3: 5–6 GHz). The feed path corresponding to Mode 2 and Mode 3 is incorporated with a suitable filtering network to shape the frequency response of the antenna based on the user's requirements. Owing to the requirement of cognitive selection of frequency bands, the frequency tunability in Mode 2 is realized using varactor diodes. The varactor‐incorporated feed path reconfigures the center frequency between 2.45 and 3.5 GHz. The proposed MIMO antenna offers gain and total efficiency greater than 2.94 dBi and 76%, respectively. The prototype of the 4‐port MIMO antenna is being fabricated to test its functionality in real time.
Dielectrophoresis microbial characterization and isolation of Staphylococcus aureus based on optimum crossover frequency
Authors: Rozaini Arash Zulkarnain Ahmad , Abdulhameed Abdullah , Deivasigamani Revathy , Nadzreen Nurulhuda , Zin Noraziah Mohamad , Kayani Amin Ahmad , Buyong Muhamad Ramdzan
Published: June 2023

Characterization of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria is a significant concern that persists for the rapid classification and analysis of the bacteria. A technology that utilizes the manipulation of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria is key to solving the significant threat of these pathogenic bacteria by rapid characterization profile. Dielectrophoresis (DEP) can differentiate between antibiotic‐resistant and susceptible bacteria based on their physical structure and polarization properties. In this work, the DEP response of two Gram‐positive bacteria, namely, Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Methicillin‐susceptible S. aureus (MSSA), was investigated and simulated. The DEP characterization was experimentally observed on the bacteria influenced by oxacillin and vancomycin antibiotics. MSSA control without antibiotics has crossover frequencies () from 6 to 8 MHz, whereas MRSA control is from 2 to 3 MHz. The changed when bacteria were exposed to the antibiotic. As for MSSA, the decreased to 3.35 MHz compared to MSSA control without antibiotics, MRSA, increased to 7 MHz when compared to MRSA control. The changes in the DEP response of MSSA and MRSA with and without antibiotics were theoretically proven using MyDEP and COMSOL simulation and experimentally based on the modification to the bacteria cell walls. Thus, the DEP response can be employed as a label‐free detectable method to sense and differentiate between resistant and susceptible strains with different antibiotic profiles. The developed method can be implemented on a single platform to analyze and identify bacteria for rapid, scalable, and accurate characterization.
Trends and challenges in microfluidic methods for protein manipulation—A review
Authors: de los Santos‐Ramirez J. Martin , Boyas‐Chavez Pablo G. , Cerrillos‐Ordoñez Andres , Mata‐Gomez Marco , Gallo‐Villanueva Roberto C. , Perez‐Gonzalez Victor H.
Published: June 2023

Proteins are important molecules involved in an immensely large number of biological processes. Being capable of manipulating proteins is critical for developing reliable and affordable techniques to analyze and/or detect them. Such techniques would enable the production of therapeutic agents for the treatment of diseases or other biotechnological applications (e.g., bioreactors or biocatalysis). Microfluidic technology represents a potential solution to protein manipulation challenges because of the diverse phenomena that can be exploited to achieve micro‐ and nanoparticle manipulation. In this review, we discuss recent contributions made in the field of protein manipulation in microfluidic systems using different physicochemical principles and techniques, some of which are miniaturized versions of already established macro‐scale techniques.
Real‐Time Energy Management Strategy for Fuel Cell Plug‐In Hybrid Electric Bus Using Short‐Term Power Smoothing Prediction and Distance Adaptive State‐of‐Charge Consumption
Authors: Lian Jing , Han Peihang , Li Linhui , Sun Xiaoxiao
Published: June 2023

To improve energy consumption economy and fuel cell life economy, this article proposes a multiobjective real‐time energy management strategy based on short‐term power smoothing prediction and distance adaptive state‐of‐charge (SOC) consumption for fuel cell/battery plug‐in hybrid electric bus. First, a distance adaptive SOC real‐time reference trajectory planning method is proposed by collecting the actual operating condition data of Dalian city buses. Second, the motor power is smoothed using the first‐order exponential smoothing approach, and the long short term memory network is adopted to predict the smoothed motor power. Finally, based on the predicted motor power and a real‐time reference SOC, a model predictive control strategy is designed in the finite prediction horizon, and dynamic programming is used to solve multiobjective cost functions to achieve optimal power allocation. Simulation results show that the proposed strategy has remarkable performance in terms of the total operating cost, SOC sustenance, and fuel cell degradation compared with the rule‐based strategy. In addition, the average time of online energy distribution in each step of the proposed strategy is 43.8 ms, which is much smaller than the simulation step length of 1s.
Effective Thermal Conductivity of Lithium‐Ion Battery Electrodes in Dependence on the Degree of Calendering
Authors: Gandert Julia C. , Müller Marcus , Paarmann Sabine , Queisser Oliver , Wetzel Thomas
Published: June 2023

The thermal conductivity represents a key parameter for the consideration of temperature control and thermal inhomogeneities in batteries. A high‐effective thermal conductivity will entail lower temperature gradients and thus a more homogeneous temperature distribution, which is considered beneficial for a longer lifetime of battery cells. Herein, the impact of the microstructure within the porous electrode coating obtained by different compression rates and its thermal contact to the current collector is investigated as both factors significantly determine the overall conduction through the electrode. The effective thermal conductivity of two graphite anodes and two lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide cathodes is evaluated at different compression rates. It is found that the thermal conductivity does not have a monotone dependence on the porosity with changing compression rates. The results show a strong correlation with the adhesion strength, thus a significant impact of the thermal contact resistance between the coating and current collector is assumed.
Advances in understanding the cooling rates and bending of needle ice: Photogrammetric and thermal observations leading to the spatial distribution of needle ice creep
Authors: Ponti Stefano , Guglielmin Mauro
Published: June 2023

The freeze–thaw cycles are a process that dominate entire landscapes with different intensity and magnitudes that are strongly changing in the current climate change conditions. In particular, the diurnal frost heave (FH) and needle ice creep (NIC) are two poorly studied processes, especially in the field, despite their effects on the sediment transportation and vegetation colonization on Alpine slopes. In a site of the Central Alps, we applied photogrammetry, thermal imaging, manual measurements and thermistors logging to improve the knowledge of the driving parameter for the formation and accretion of needle ice, of the relations of their spatial distribution with cooling rates and the frost creep modelling change in the presence of the bending process. Among the driving factors, we demonstrate that very local conditions govern the development of the needle ice, like the air cooling rates, the deepening of the freezing front and the surficial cooling rates. Especially low cooling rates are necessary for an intense process. Also the grain size influences the development of the needle ice with higher needle ice development under fine sediment than under small clasts due to a differential thermal conductivity. Moreover, the bending of needle ice has proved to be dependent on its length, age and type of heaved sediment. Therefore, potential frost creep formulas needed to be ameliorated considering the bending angle. Subsequently, a question about the role of slope gradient in NIC is treated.
Integrating interval type‐2 fuzzy logic and modified dingo optimization for node ranking and energy efficient MANET
Authors: C R Mamatha , Ramakrishna M
Published: May 2023

In mobile ad hoc networks (MANET), the mobility of the node changes dynamically, thus affecting the stability of the connection and increasing energy consumption. The heterogeneity of the MANET nodes in terms of mobility, battery capacity, and processing capabilities often complicates the routing process and results in increased energy consumption and traffic overhead. To overcome the challenges associated with diverse MANET nodes, this article presents a hybrid interval type‐2 fuzzy logic controller and modified dingo optimization (IT2FLC‐MDO) algorithm‐based optimized link‐state routing protocol. In our proposed IT2FLC‐MDO algorithm, multiple Quality of Service (QoS) parameters (node distance, lifetime, residual energy, speed, queue length, etc) are integrated into a single multicriteria node metric to improve the multipath route analysis and topology formation. In this way, the need to broadcast multiple parameters for each session is reduced thus minimizing the control overhead. The proposed routing protocol mainly aims to achieve a tradeoff between the QoS metrics and energy consumption during data transmission, addresses the QoS and energy issues associated with multipath routing, and uses a multicriteria node metric. The proposed IT2FLC‐MDO protocol takes both the energy consumption and QoS parameters into account, thus achieving a balance between the energy consumption and QoS. The cluster head primarily chooses the path with the highest link quality to ensure reliable data transmission. The proposed IT2FLC‐MDO protocol's efficiency is demonstrated using several performance measures such as packet delivery ratio, average end‐to‐end delay, and normalized control overhead. The simulation results indicate that the proposed algorithm can handle MANET uncertainty while minimizing control overhead. The results show that the proposed algorithm offers a packet delivery rate nearly equal to 96% and improves the MANET's lifetime by up to 59%.
Molecular classification and identification of an aggressive signature in low‐grade B‐cell lymphomas
Authors: Hopper Melissa A. , Wenzl Kerstin , Hartert Keenan T. , Krull Jordan E. , Dropik Abigail R. , Novak Joseph P. , Manske Michelle K. , Serres MaKayla R. , Sarangi Vivekananda , Larson Melissa C. , Maurer Matthew J. , Yang Zhi‐Zhang , Paludo Jonas , McPhail Ellen D. , Habermann Thomas M. , Link Brian K. , Rimsza Lisa M. , Ansell Stephen M. , Cerhan James R. , Jevremovic Dragan , Novak Anne J.
Published: May 2023

Non‐follicular low‐grade B‐cell lymphomas (LGBCL) are biologically diverse entities that share clinical and histologic features that make definitive pathologic categorization challenging. While most patients with LGBCL have an indolent course, some experience aggressive disease, highlighting additional heterogeneity across these subtypes. To investigate the potential for shared biology across subtypes, we performed RNA sequencing and applied machine learning approaches that identified five clusters of patients that grouped independently of subtype. One cluster was characterized by inferior outcome, upregulation of cell cycle genes, and increased tumor immune cell content. Integration of whole exome sequencing identified novel LGBCL mutations and enrichment of TNFAIP3 and BCL2 alterations in the poor survival cluster. Building on this, we further refined a transcriptomic signature associated with early clinical failure in two independent cohorts. Taken together, this study identifies unique clusters of LGBCL defined by novel gene expression signatures and immune profiles associated with outcome across diagnostic subtypes.
Energyand vapour transfer in evaporation processes over saturated bare soil and water surface‐lysimeter studies
Authors: Li Wanxin , Wang Wenke , Yang Yuankai , Hou Xinyue , Ha Hongting
Published: June 2023

Potential evaporation (PE) is a significant input in many hydrological models for the estimation of actual evaporation. Evaporation from water (PEw) is generally considered equivalent to evaporation from saturated bare soils (PEs). The influences of the underlying surface on PE as well as the energy and vapour transfer in potential evaporation processes over different surfaces are rarely discussed. In this research, lysimeter experiments were set up to measure the diurnal cycles of evaporation from two saturated sandy soils and water at a high temporal resolution in the Guanzhong Basin, China. Evaporation from Class A Pan, meteorological variables and temperatures were also measured during the experiment. Observation results show that PEsis ~12% higher than PEwon a yearly scale. There were also some clear differences in diurnal and seasonal PE dynamics between saturated bare soils and water. In summer, PEsis higher than PEwat day but smaller at night, with the peak value of PEwlagging ~4 h behind PEs. These observed PE dynamics and energy transfer processes can be quantitative explained on the basis of a full analysis of the energy balance equation. A comprehensive description of the flux transfer processes showed that these differences in PE are governed by differences in available energy (including albedo and thermal properties) between soils and water. Moreover, the observed differences in PE and vapour transfer processes were reproduced and described by improving the vapour diffusion equation, with considering the influence of different surfaces and boundary layer thicknesses. It is found that dynamics in PE were mainly characterised by surface temperature, which further determined the vapour gradients between the evaporation surface and air flow. The results suggested that differences between PEsand PEwcannot be neglected in hydrological applications. This study can act as both an experimental and theoretical reference for estimating potential evaporation rates.
Genetic deletion or tyrosine phosphatase inhibition of PTPRZ1 activates c‐Met to up‐regulate angiogenesis and lung adenocarcinoma growth
Authors: Kastana Pinelopi , Ntenekou Despoina , Mourkogianni Eleni , Enake Michaela‐Karina , Xanthopoulos Athanasios , Choleva Effrosyni , Marazioti Antonia , Nikou Sophia , Akwii Racheal G. , Papadaki Eleni , Gramage Esther , Herradón Gonzalo , Stathopoulos Georgios T. , Mikelis Constantinos M. , Papadimitriou Evangelia
Published: June 2023

Protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor zeta 1 (PTPRZ1) is a transmembrane tyrosine phosphatase (TP) expressed in endothelial cells and required for stimulation of cell migration by vascular endothelial growth factor A165 (VEGFA165) and pleiotrophin (PTN). It is also over or under‐expressed in various tumor types. In this study, we used genetically engineered Ptprz1−/− and Ptprz1+/+ mice to study mechanistic aspects of PTPRZ1 involvement in angiogenesis and investigate its role in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) growth. Ptprz1−/− lung microvascular endothelial cells (LMVEC) have increased angiogenic features compared with Ptprz1+/+ LMVEC, in line with the increased lung angiogenesis and the enhanced chemically induced LUAD growth in Ptprz1−/− compared with Ptprz1+/+ mice. In LUAD cells isolated from the lungs of urethane‐treated mice, PTPRZ1 TP inhibition also enhanced proliferation and migration. Expression of beta 3 (β3) integrin is decreased in Ptprz1−/− LMVEC, linked to enhanced VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2), c‐Met tyrosine kinase (TK) and Akt kinase activities. However, only c‐Met and Akt seem responsible for the enhanced endothelial cell activation in vitro and LUAD growth and angiogenesis in vivo in Ptprz1−/− mice. A selective PTPRZ1 TP inhibitor, VEGFA165 and PTN also activate c‐Met and Akt in a PTPRZ1‐dependent manner in endothelial cells, and their stimulatory effects are abolished by the c‐Met TK inhibitor (TKI) crizotinib. Altogether, our data suggest that low PTPRZ1 expression is linked to worse LUAD prognosis and response to c‐Met TKIs and uncover for the first time the role of PTPRZ1 in mediating c‐Met activation by VEGFA and PTN.
Complication rates of peripherally inserted central catheters vs implanted ports in patients receiving systemic anticancer therapy: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Rieger Max J. , Schenkel Xenia , Dedic Ivona , Brunn Tadeusz , Gnannt Ralph , Hofmann Michael , de Rougemont Olivier , Stolz Sebastian M. , Rösler Wiebke , Studt Jan‐Dirk , Balabanov Stefan , Wicki Andreas , Lorch Anja , Manz Markus G. , Schwotzer Rahel
Published: May 2023

While implanted port catheters (“PORTs”) have historically been the standard device for intravenous systemic anticancer therapy, the use of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) has increased continuously and reliable catheter selection guidelines are lacking. We compare complication rates of PORTs and PICCs in cancer treatment in a retrospective study of 3365 patients with both solid organ (n = 2612) and hematologic (n = 753) malignancies, between 2001 and 2021. 26.4% (n = 890) of all patients were treated via PICCs and 73.6% (2475) via PORTs. 20.7% (578) experienced a major catheter‐related complication with a higher rate in PICCs than in PORTs (23.5% vs 14.9%, P < .001). Among major complications, infections and mechanical complications were more common in PICCs than in PORTs (11.9% vs 6.4%, P = .001, 7.3% vs 4.2%, P = .002), whereas the rate of thrombosis was similar (3.4% vs 3.0%, P = .9). While PORTs had a higher rate of periprocedural complications (2.7% vs 1.1%, P < .05), PICCs overall complication rate exceeded PORTs within 3 days from implantation. Median follow‐up was 49 (PICC) and 60 weeks (PORT). PORTs are safer and therefore should be preferred in this setting regardless of catheter dwell time.
Psychological distress during pregnancy and adverse maternal and perinatal health outcomes: The role of socioeconomic status
Authors: Daalderop Leonie A. , Lagendijk Jacqueline , Steegers Eric A. P. , El Marroun Hanan , Posthumus Anke G.
Published: June 2023

Objective

To study the contribution of socioeconomic status (SES) to the prevalence of psychological distress during pregnancy, and to investigate the association between psychological distress and maternal and perinatal health among different SES groups.

Methods

This study was embedded in the Generation R study. Multiple self‐reported questionnaires were used to measure psychological distress. Prevalence differences between SES groups were tested with the χ2 test. Linear and logistic regression analyses were used to examine the associations between psychological distress and maternal and perinatal health outcomes.

Results

Women of low SES experience symptoms of psychopathology distress 4.5 times as often and symptoms of stress 2.5 times as often as women with of high SES. Women of low SES experiencing symptoms of psychopathology are at greater risk of delivering preterm. We also found associations between psychological distress and adverse perinatal health outcomes among women of middle and high SES.

Conclusion

The present study shows that the associations between SES, psychological distress, and maternal and perinatal health are complex, but do exist. To provide a better understanding of these associations, it is important to include mental health information in the standard national data collection on pregnant women, as this allows population‐based studies.
Silymarin modified polysulfone hollow fiber membranes with antioxidant, anti‐M1 macrophage polarization and hemocompatibility for blood purification
Authors: Wang Peichen , Yang Ning , Luo Ying , Wang Gan , Zhou Shuaizhen , Huang Shuai , Chen Li , Zhao Yiping
Published: May 2023

Oxidative stress is highly prevalent in maintenance hemodialysis patients and increases the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Silymarin (SM) is a natural compound extracted from plants, and has been shown to have pharmacological effects such as antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, cytoprotective, and anti‐nephrotoxicity. SM‐modified polysulfone (PSF) hemodialysis membranes were prepared by an immersion‐precipitation phase transition method. The experimental results showed that the modified membranes effectively scavenged free radicals, significantly inhibited lipid peroxidation, and had good antioxidant stability (60 days). The PSF/SM antioxidant membranes (H‐3) had no pro‐inflammatory effect, which was confirmed by the result of anti‐M1 macrophage polarization. Furthermore, the hemolysis rate (2%), blood cell deformation (3.7%), and inhibition of erythrocyte and platelet adhesion were improved by the SM‐modified PSF membranes. All the results suggest that PSF/SM blended hollow fiber membranes are promising for application in hemodialysis membranes to improve oxidative stress status and reduce inflammation and complications in patients.
Intensified extraction of rare earth elements from coal fly ash
Authors: Lomanjaya Fathony , Liu Jhy‐Chern
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

The high demand for coal‐based energy leads to the production of a massive amount of coal fly ash (CFA). Owing to the content of rare earth elements (REEs), CFA is regarded as one of the promising secondary sources of REEs. The corrent study utilized two intensified extraction methods, subcritical water extraction (SWE) and microwave assisted extraction (MAE), in the recovery of REEs, including yttrium (Y) and samarium (Sm), from CFA sample.

RESULTS

The effects of acid concentration, temperature, and solid to liquid ratio (S/L), and reaction time on leaching efficiency were investigated. Total of 80.32% of Y and 68% of Sm were leached out using SWE at 1.0 N HCl, S/L of 5 g/L, 150 °C for 5 min. Meanwhile, MAE yielded leaching efficiency of 71.99% of Y and 54.48% of Sm at 2.0 N HCl, S/L of 2.5 g/L, 150 °C for 5 min. Both methods performed better than conventional method.

CONCLUSIONS

From comparisons, SWE showed advantages of higher leaching efficiency at lower acid concentration, while MAE was more rapid and more energy efficient for REEs recovery from CFA. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Use of 18F‐FDG PET/MRI as an Initial Staging Procedure for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Cao Caineng , Fang Yuting , Yu Bocheng , Xu Yuanfan , Qiang Mengyun , Tao Changjuan , Huang Shuang , Chen Xiaozhong
Published: May 2023

Background

Compared with the conventional work‐up (CWU) including computed tomography (CT) of the chest and abdomen, MRI of the head and neck, and skeletal scintigraphy, positron emission tomography (PET)/MRI might improve diagnostic accuracy, shorten the work‐up time, and reduce false‐positive (FP) findings in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, evidence of cost‐effectiveness is needed for the adoption of PET/MRI for the initial staging in NPC.

Purpose

To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness and clinical value of PET/MRI as an initial staging procedure for NPC.

Study Type

Retrospective cohort cost effectiveness study.

Subjects

Three hundred forty‐three patients with a median age of 51 (13–81) years underwent PET/MRI before treatment (the PET/MRI group) and the remaining 677 patients with a median age of 55 (15–95) years only underwent CWU (the CWU group). There were 80 (23.3%) females and 193 (28.5%) females in the PET/MRI and CWU groups, respectively.

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T integrated PET/MRI system, diffusion‐weighted echo‐planar imaging (b = 0 and 1000 s/mm2) and [18F] fluorodeoxyglucose PET.

Assessment

The primary end point was the FP rate. Costs were determined as issued in 2021 by the Medical Insurance Administration Bureau of Zhejiang, China.

Statistical Tests

Incremental cost effectiveness ratio (ICER) measured cost of using PET/MRI per percent of patients who avoided a FP. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

For the whole group, the de novo metastatic disease rate was 5.2% (53/1020). A total of 187 patients with FP results were observed. Significantly more patients with FP results were observed in the CWU group compared to the PET/MRI group (25.6% vs. 4.1%). The ICER was $54 for each percent of patients avoiding a FP finding.

Data Conclusion

Compared with CWU, PET/MRI may reduce the FP risk. Furthermore, PET/MRI may be cost‐effective as an initial staging procedure for NPC.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 6
Multi‐omic and comparative analyses revealed monocyte‐derived alpha‐defensin‐1 correlated with COVID‐19 severity and inhibited SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Qian Xijing , Wu Bingan , Chen Xiang , Peng Haoran , Liu Miao , Tang Hailin , Xu Zhengmei , Xu Chen , Qi Zhongtian
Published: May 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is the etiological pathogen of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), a highly contagious disease, spreading quickly and threatening global public health. The symptoms of COVID‐19 vary from mild reactions to severe respiratory distress or even fatal outcomes probably due to the different status of host immunity against the virus. Here in the study, we unveiled plasma proteomic signatures and transcriptional patterns of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) using blood samples of 10 COVID‐19 patients with different severity. Through systemic analysis, α‐defensin‐1 (DEFA1) was identified to be elevated in both plasma and PBMCs, and correlated with disease severity and stages. In vitro study demonstrated that DEFA1 was secreted from immunocytes and suppressed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection of both original and mutated strains with dose dependency. By using sequencing data, we discovered that DEFA1 was activated in monocytes through NF‐κB signaling pathway after infection, and secreted into circulation to perturb SARS‐CoV‐2 infection by interfering protein kinase C expression. It worked mainly during virus replication instead of entry in host cells. Together, the anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 mechanism of DEFA1 has unveiled a corner of how innate immunity is against SARS‐CoV‐2 and explored its clinical potential in disease prognosis and therapeutic intervention.