bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of asphalt emulsion on calcium silicate hydrate gel: Morphology and porosity
Authors: Zeng Xiaohui , Zhu Huasheng , Lan Xuli , Liu Haichuan , Long Guangcheng , Ma Cong
Published: October 2020

In this paper, calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) gel and calcium silicate hydrate doped with asphalt emulsion (EACSH) were synthesised using Na2SiO3•9H2O, Ca (NO3)2•4H2O, NaOH, deionised water and anionic asphalt emulsion. N2 isothermal adsorption, X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to study the effect of asphalt emulsion on morphology and porosity of CSH. The Frenkel–Halsey–Hill (FHH) model was used to analyse the surface fractal characteristics. The results showed that the asphalt emulsion had little effects on the change of specific surface areas and the distribution of the micropores for CSH gel, which may be related to the absence of the intercalation reaction and the “opening” effect. The asphalt emulsion could promote the formation of mesoporous hydrated calcium silicate and decreased the number of mesopores in CSH gel but had little effects on the macroporous and microporous structure of CSH. The calculation results of the FHH model showed that the fractal characteristics between CSH and EACSH were different. The emulsifier may adsorb CSH gels result in globular accumulation state.
Improving iodine adsorption performance of porous organic polymers by rational decoration with nitrogen heterocycle
Authors: Wang Yu‐Ting , An Lian‐Cai , Zhang Yun‐Qin , Zhang Xin‐Kun , Gao Zhu‐Feng , Zhang Ying‐Hui
Published: October 2020

Four kinds of porous aminal‐linked organic polymers (PAOPs) were synthesized via one‐step condensation between cheap melamine and respective aldehydes decorated with different nitrogen heterocycle, to evaluate the influence of nitrogen heterocycle on the adsorption performance of target polymer toward iodine. Though having the smallest surface area of 209.9 m2/g, PAOP‐4 decorated with pyridine group exhibits an adsorption capacity of 108 wt% (iodine/adsorbent weight%), surpassing other three PAOPs with Brunauer–Emmett–Teller area varying from 305.8 to 533.0 m2/g. Based on Raman spectral analyses, the characteristic band of I3− and I5− was used to evaluate the electronic interaction between iodine and the nitrogen heterocycle, giving an order of pyridine > tetrazole > pyrazole > imidazole. This manifests the vital role of chemical interaction playing in the iodine adsorption by PAOP‐4, which is much helpful for designing high‐performance organic adsorbent toward iodine.
Assessment of high performanceSAPO‐34/S‐PEEKcomposite coatings for adsorption heat pumps
Authors: Calabrese Luigi , Palamara Davide , Bruzzaniti Paolo , Proverbio Edoardo
Published: October 2020

In this work, a new composite adsorbent coating on aluminum support, based on SAPO34 zeolite filler embedded into sulfonate polyether ether ketone matrix is investigated for adsorption heat pumps (AHP) applications. Composite zeolite/polymer mixtures, with 80–95 wt% content of SAPO‐34 zeolite filler have been prepared and coated on aluminum substrates. The as prepared coatings showed a pull‐off adhesion strength up to 2.0 MPa, significantly higher than conventional values of composite zeolite coatings reported in the literature. Scanning electron microscopy analysis demonstrated that the coating has a homogeneous morphology with zeolite filler well interconnected in the composite coating structure. Water adsorption isobars were carried out at equilibrium in the temperature range 30–120°C. The best adsorption performances for AHPs applications were observed for the PZ‐95 batch, where a maximum water uptake of ∼29.0 wt% was reached, highlighting that the polymer matrix presence does not alter the zeolite adsorption capability (31.3 wt%).
Development and validation of a QTrap method for sensitive quantification of sphingosine 1‐phosphate
Authors: Müller Tina , Gräler Markus H.
Published: October 2020

Sphingosine 1‐phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive phospholipid and ligand for five G protein‐coupled cell‐surface receptors designated S1PR1–5. The determination of low levels of S1P remains a challenge and usually requires sophisticated analytical instrumentation and methodology. This report describes a technique using the linear ion trap mode of a basic QTrap triple‐quadrupole mass spectrometer. S1P was extracted from acidified biological samples using a modified Folch extraction procedure. After the addition of C17‐sphingosine as an internal standard, a step gradient LC method was used to separate the analytes on a reversed‐phase C18 MultoHigh analytical column. After the internal standard C17‐sphingosine was detected by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM), the detection mode was switched to enhanced product ion (EPI) mode for the detection of S1P. The mode was switched back to MRM again for the detection of other analytes. Using this QTrap method, we reached a limit of detection of 1 nM and a limit of quantification of 3 nM for S1P, which was up to 30 times more sensitive than the MRM mode with the same instrument. Intra‐day precision ranged between −3.8 and 6.3%, and inter‐day precision was between −13.8 and 3.3%, depending on the spiked S1P concentration.
Pulmonary artery and lung parenchymal growth following early versus delayed stent interventions in a swine pulmonary artery stenosis model
Authors: Pewowaruk Ryan , Hermsen Joshua , Johnson Cody , Erdmann Alexandra , Pettit Kevin , Aesif Scott , Ralphe J. Carter , Francois Christopher J. , Roldán‐Alzate Alejandro , Lamers Luke
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Compare lung parenchymal and pulmonary artery (PA) growth and hemodynamics following early and delayed PA stent interventions for treatment of unilateral branch PA stenosis (PAS) in swine.

Background

How the pulmonary circulation remodels in response to different durations of hypoperfusion and how much growth and function can be recovered with catheter directed interventions at differing time periods of lung development is not understood.

Methods

A total of 18 swine were assigned to four groups: Sham (n = 4), untreated left PAS (LPAS) (n = 4), early intervention (EI) (n = 5), and delayed intervention (DI) (n = 5). EI had left pulmonary artery (LPA) stenting at 5 weeks (6 kg) with redilation at 10 weeks. DI had stenting at 10 weeks. All underwent right heart catheterization, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and histology at 20 weeks (55 kg).

Results

EI decreased the extent of histologic changes in the left lung as DI had marked alveolar septal and bronchovascular abnormalities (p = .05 and p < .05 vs. sham) that were less prevalent in EI. EI also increased left lung volumes and alveolar counts compared to DI. EI and DI equally restored LPA pulsatility, R heart pressures, and distal LPA growth. EI and DI improved, but did not normalize LPA stenosis diameter (LPA/DAo ratio: Sham 1.27 ± 0.11 mm/mm, DI 0.88 ± 0.10 mm/mm, EI 1.01 ± 0.09 mm/mm) and pulmonary blood flow distributions (LPA‐flow%: Sham 52 ± 5%, LPAS 7 ± 2%, DI 44 ± 3%, EI 40 ± 2%).

Conclusion

In this surgically created PAS model, EI was associated with improved lung parenchymal development compared to DI. Longer durations of L lung hypoperfusion did not detrimentally affect PA growth and R heart hemodynamics. Functional and anatomical discrepancies persist despite successful stent interventions that warrant additional investigation.
Photophysical Properties of 4‐Dicyanomethylene‐2‐methyl‐6‐(p‐dimethylamino‐styryl)‐4H‐pyran Revisited: Fluorescence versus Photoisomerization
Authors: Casimiro Lorenzo , Maisonneuve Stéphane , Retailleau Pascal , Silvi Serena , Xie Juan , Métivier Rémi
Published: October 2020

Invited for the cover of this issue are Juan Xie, Rémi Métivier and co‐workers at Université Paris‐Saclay and Università di Bologna. The image depicts the fluorescence of the DCM molecule reported in this manuscript. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202002828.
Uranyl Phosphonates with Multiple Uranyl Coordination Geometries and Low Temperature Phase Transition
Authors: Chen Lanhua , Zhang Yugang , Weng Zhehui , Liu Zhiyong , Zhang Jiarong , Wang Yaxing , Wang Shuao
Published: October 2020

Main observation and conclusion

Two new uranium(VI) phosphonate compounds, namely K8[N(C2H5)4]2(UO2)17(H2O)4[CH2(PO3)2]8[CH2(PO3)(PO3H)]4‧16(H2O) (1) and [N(C2H5)4]4(H3O)2(UO2)10[CH2(PO3)2]5[CH2(PO3)(PO3H)]2‧10H2O (2), have been synthesized under mild hydro/solvothermal condition. The structural analysis of the two compounds reveals that they both contain all three typical coordination geometries of the U(VI) ions, including UO6 tetragonal, UO7 pentagonal, and UO8 hexagonal bipyramids. Moreover, compound 1 displays a temperature‐induced single crystal to single crystal phase transformation as confirmed by the Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction data collected at different temperatures. Temperature‐dependent fluorescence spectra presented herein illustrate the perturbation of the electronic structure of uranyl centers.
Rational Design of Azastatin as a Potential ADC Payload with Reduced Bystander Killing
Authors: Hartmann Rafael W. , Fahrner Raphael , Shevshenko Denys , Fyrknäs Mårten , Larsson Rolf , Lehmann Fredrik , Odell Luke R.
Published: October 2020

Auristatins are a class of ultrapotent microtubule inhibitors, whose growing clinical popularity in oncology is based upon their use as payloads in antibody‐drug conjugates (ADCs). The most widely utilized auristatin, MMAE, has however been shown to cause apoptosis in non‐pathological cells proximal to the tumour (“bystander killing”). Herein, we introduce azastatins, a new class of auristatin derivatives encompassing a side chain amine for antibody conjugation. The synthesis of Cbz‐azastatin methyl ester, which included the C2‐elongation and diastereoselective reduction of two proteinogenic amino acids as key transformations, was accomplished in 22 steps and 0.76 % overall yield. While Cbz‐protected azastatin methyl ester (0.13–3.0 nM) inhibited proliferation more potently than MMAE (0.47–6.5 nM), removal of the Cbz‐group yielded dramatically increased IC50‐values (9.8–170 nM). We attribute the reduced apparent cytotoxicity of the deprotected azastatin methyl esters to a lack of membrane permeability. These results clearly establish the azastatins as a novel class of cytotoxic payloads ideally suited for use in next‐generation ADC development.
Broad‐Spectrum Antifungal Agents: Fluorinated Aryl‐ and Heteroaryl‐Substituted Hydrazones
Authors: Thamban Chandrika Nishad , Dennis Emily K. , Brubaker Katelyn R. , Kwiatkowski Stefan , Watt David S. , Garneau‐Tsodikova Sylvie
Published: October 2020

Fluorinated aryl‐ and heteroaryl‐substituted monohydrazones displayed excellent broad‐spectrum activity against various fungal strains, including a panel of clinically relevant Candida auris strains relative to a control antifungal agent, voriconazole (VRC). These monohydrazones displayed less hemolysis of murine red blood cells than that of VRC at the same concentrations, possessed fungicidal activity in a time‐kill study, and exhibited no mammalian cell cytotoxicity. In addition, these monohydrazones prevented the formation of biofilms that otherwise block antibiotic effectiveness and did not trigger the development of resistance when exposed to C. auris AR Bank # 0390 over 15 passages.
Maize nitrogen management in soils with influencing water tables within optimum depth
Authors: Ruiz Alejo , Salvagiotti Fernando , Gambin Brenda L. , Borrás Lucas
Published: October 2020

The central temperate Argentinean region is currently affected by rising water tables, allowing higher and more stable maize yields (Zea maysL) when they fluctuate within optimum depth. However, limited information was available for optimizing N management in these environments. Yield response to N rates was explored in soils with influencing groundwater (always <3.5 m depth), and different environment and management variables were examined to help explain differential yield responses across sites. A total of 15 rainfed experiments (site × year combinations) were conducted with five N rates (0–240 kg N ha−1) tested at two different timings (sowing and V7) in a factorial design. A consistent yield response to N rate was evident, increasing yields from 2,300 to 6,900 kg ha−1across sites. Yields at maximum N levels ranged from 13,700 to 16,900 kg ha−1. Fertilization timing had a minor and inconsistent effect on yield across sites. At a maize grain/fertilizer N price ratio of 10, the economically optimal N rate ranged from 117 to 206 kg N ha−1. Soil N‐NO3at sowing, previous crop, and apparent–indigenous N supply (INS) helped explain differential yield responses across sites, and response models for obtaining economic optimum rates considering the influence of these variables are provided. These results highlight the relevance of N rate, rather than timing, as a critical crop management decision in environments with high water availability and yield.
Recent Developments in Metalloporphyrin Electrocatalysts for Reduction of Small Molecules: Strategies for Managing Electron and Proton Transfer Reactions
Authors: Zhang Rui , Warren Jeffrey J.
Published: October 2020

Porphyrins are archetypal ligands in inorganic chemistry. The last 10 years have seen important new advances in the use of metalloporphyrins as catalysts in the activation and reduction of small molecules, in particular O2 and CO2. Recent developments of new molecular designs, scaling relationships, and theoretical modeling of mechanisms have rapidly advanced the utility of porphyrins as electrocatalysts. This Minireview focuses on the summary and evaluation of recent developments of metalloporphyrin O2 and CO2 reduction electrocatalysts, with an emphasis on contrasting homogeneous and heterogeneous electrocatalysis. Comparisons for proposed reaction mechanisms are provided for both CO2 and O2 reduction, and ideas are proposed about how lessons from the last decade of research can lead to the development of practical, applied porphyrin‐derived catalysts.
Regulation of zebrafish fin regeneration by vitamin D signaling
Authors: Chen Anzhi , Han Yanchao , Poss Kenneth D.
Published: October 2020

Background

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that has long been known to regulate skeletal growth and integrity. In models of major appendage regeneration, treatment with vitamin D analogs has been reported to improve aspects of zebrafish fin regeneration in specific disease or gene misexpression contexts, but also to disrupt pattern in regenerating salamander limbs. Recently, we reported strong mitogenic roles for vitamin D signaling in several zebrafish tissues throughout life stages, including epidermal cells and osteoblasts of adult fins. To our knowledge, molecular genetic approaches to dissect vitamin D function in appendage regeneration have not been described.

Results

Using a knock‐in GFP reporter for the expression of the vitamin D target gene and negative regulator cyp24a1, we identified active vitamin D signaling in adult zebrafish fins during tissue homeostasis and regeneration. Transgenic expression of cyp24a1 or a dominant‐negative vitamin D receptor (VDR) inhibited regeneration of amputated fins, whereas global vitamin D treatment accelerated regeneration. Using tissue regeneration enhancer elements, we found that local enhancement of VDR expression could improve regeneration with low doses of a vitamin D analog.

Conclusions

Vitamin D signaling enhances the efficacy of fin regeneration in zebrafish.
DNA diet profiles with high‐resolution animal tracking data reveal levels of prey selection relative to habitat choice in a crepuscular insectivorous bird
Authors: Evens Ruben , Conway Greg , Franklin Kirsty , Henderson Ian , Stockdale Jennifer , Beenaerts Natalie , Smeets Karen , Neyens Thomas , Ulenaers Eddy , Artois Tom
Published: October 2020

Given the global decline of many invertebrate food resources, it is fundamental to understand the dietary requirements of insectivores. We give new insights into the functional relationship between the spatial habitat use, food availability, and diet of a crepuscular aerial insectivore, the European Nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus) by relating spatial use data with high‐throughput sequencing (HTS) combined with DNA metabarcoding. Our study supports the predictions that nightjars collect a substantial part of their daily nourishment from foraging locations, sometimes at considerable distance from nesting sites. Lepidopterans comprise 65% of nightjars' food source. Nightjars tend to select larger species of Lepidoptera (>19 mm) which suggests that nightjars optimize the efficiency of foraging trips by selecting the most energetically favorable—larger—prey items. We anticipate that our findings may shed additional light on the interactions between invertebrate communities and higher trophic levels, which is required to understand the repercussions of changing food resources on individual‐ and population‐level processes.
Dysregulated RASGRP1 expression through RUNX1 mediated transcription promotes autoimmunity
Authors: Baars Matthijs J.D. , Douma Thera , Simeonov Dimitre R. , Myers Darienne R. , Kulhanek Kayla , Banerjee Saikat , Zwakenberg Susan , Baltissen Marijke P. , Amini Mojtaba , de Roock Sytze , van Wijk Femke , Vermeulen Michiel , Marson Alexander , Roose Jeroen P. , Vercoulen Yvonne
Published: October 2020

RasGRP1 is a Ras guanine nucleotide exchange factor, and an essential regulator of lymphocyte receptor signaling. In mice, Rasgrp1 deletion results in defective T lymphocyte development. RASGRP1‐deficient patients suffer from immune deficiency, and the RASGRP1 gene has been linked to autoimmunity. However, how RasGRP1 levels are regulated, and if RasGRP1 dosage alterations contribute to autoimmunity remains unknown. We demonstrate that diminished Rasgrp1 expression caused defective T lymphocyte selection in C57BL/6 mice, and that the severity of inflammatory disease inversely correlates with Rasgrp1 expression levels. In patients with autoimmunity, active inflammation correlated with decreased RASGRP1 levels in CD4+ T cells. By analyzing H3K27 acetylation profiles in human T cells, we identified a RASGRP1 enhancer that harbors autoimmunity‐associated SNPs. CRISPR‐Cas9 disruption of this enhancer caused lower RasGRP1 expression, and decreased binding of RUNX1 and CBFB transcription factors. Analyzing patients with autoimmunity, we detected reduced RUNX1 expression in CD4+ T cells. Lastly, we mechanistically link RUNX1 to transcriptional regulation of RASGRP1 to reveal a key circuit regulating RasGRP1 expression, which is vital to prevent inflammatory disease.
Nerve growth factor sensitizes nociceptors to C‐fibre selective supra‐threshold electrical stimuli in human skin
Authors: Schnakenberg Mark , Thomas Christian , Schmelz Martin , Rukwied Roman
Published: October 2020

Background

Intradermal injection of 1 µg nerve growth factor (NGF) causes sustained nociceptor sensitization. Slowly depolarizing electrical current preferentially activates C‐nociceptors.

Methods

We explored the differential contribution of A‐delta and C‐nociceptors in NGF‐sensitized skin using slowly depolarizing transcutaneous electrical current stimuli, CO2 laser heat, mechanical impact, and A‐fibre compression block. In 14 healthy volunteers, pain rating was recorded on a numeric scale at days 1–14 after NGF treatment. Ratings during A‐fibre conduction block were investigated at days 3 and 7 post‐NGF.

Results

Pain ratings to electrical, CO2 heat and mechanical impact stimuli were enhanced (>30%, p < .0005, ANOVA) at NGF‐injection sites. Axon reflex erythema evoked by electrical stimulation was also larger at NGF‐injection sites (p < .02, ANOVA). Diminution of pain during continuous (1 min) sinusoidal current stimulation at 4 Hz was less pronounced after NGF (p < .05, ANOVA). Pain ratings to electrical sinusoidal and mechanical impact stimuli during A‐fibre conduction block were significantly elevated at the NGF sites compared to NaCl‐treated skin (p < .05, ANOVA).

Conclusions

NGF‐induced sensitization of human skin to electrical and mechanical stimuli is primarily driven by C‐nociceptors with little contribution from A‐delta fibres. Less‐pronounced accommodation during ongoing sinusoidal stimulation suggests that NGF could facilitate axonal spike generation and conduction in primary afferent nociceptors in humans. Further studies using this sinusoidal electrical stimulation profile to investigate patients with chronic inflammatory pain may allow localized assessment of skin C‐nociceptors and their putative excitability changes under pathologic conditions.

Significance

The application of novel slowly depolarizing electrical stimuli demonstrated a predominant C‐nociceptor sensitization in NGF‐treated skin. Increased pain ratings, larger axon reflex erythema and less accommodation of C‐fibres to ongoing sinusoidal stimulation all indicated an enhanced nociceptor discharge after NGF. A‐fibre conduction block had little effect on electrical and mechanical hyperalgesia skin in NGF‐treated compared to NaCl‐treated skin. This electrical stimulus profile may be applicable for patients with chronic inflammatory pain, allowing localized assessment of skin C‐nociceptors and their putative excitability changes under pathologic conditions.
Comparison of methane production performance of vinegar residue under liquid‐ and solid‐state conditions
Authors: Song Chao , Feng Jiayu , Wang Ligong , Cai Fanfan , Chen Chang , Liu Guangqing
Published: October 2020

Vinegar residue (VR), a major by‐product in the vinegar brewing process, is generated at least three million tons annually in China. Currently major part of the disposal of VR is fulfilled by landfill and incineration, however, serious environment pollution along with such processes is a challenging issue. Anaerobic digestion (AD) can provide benefits of environment and renewable methane generation, which seems to be a reasonable alternative to traditional treatment. Noticeably, total solids (TS) is an important influential parameter to AD performance. Therefore, VR was evaluated for methane production and associated kinetic characteristics during the liquid‐state AD (LS‐AD) and solid‐state AD (SS‐AD) in this study. The results indicated that the highest specific methane yield of 194.8 mL gVS−1 and volumetric methane yield of 9.4 Lmethane Lreactor volume−1 were achieved in LS‐AD (TS = 10%) and SS‐AD (TS = 20%), respectively. The kinetic analysis showed a higher specific methane production rate for LS‐AD than SS‐AD, while volumetric methane production rate presented a reverse trend. This study provides useful guidance for the sustainable utilization of VR while contributes to environmental protection and alleviates the dependence on fossil fuels.
Memristor‐based 2D1M architecture: Solution to sneak paths in multilevel memory
Authors: Ravi V. , Singh Shivendra , Sofana Reka S.
Published: October 2020

The memristor, the fourth fundamental elements have shown the potential to revolutionize the present storage, analog, and digital computational technologies. The ability to remember its previous state in the absence of any stimuli has made the memristor as a prime candidate for nonvolatile memory. However, the sneak path is one of the main problems hampering the implementation of memristor‐based crossbar memories. In this article, we introduce a new crossbar architecture that is capable of storing multibit per cell and eliminates the sneak paths without adding any complex circuitry. The approximate write delay of the proposed memory cell is 20 mS which is very close to the delay of the single bit cell. The proposed architecture was validated by storing four different logic states in each cell of the 4 × 4 memory. Hence, one memory cell of the proposed architecture replaces four cells of the single‐bit memory at the cost of one additional diode per cell. Therefore, the proposed scheme saves considerable area when compared with the conventional single‐bit memory array. The write/read operations are validated by a generic, accurate, and efficient “voltage threshold adaptive memristor” (VTEAM) model. The simulation results prove that the proposed circuitry can read the memory content even after 2000 cycles without any sneak paths problem.
Dynamic neural circuit disruptions associated with antisocial behaviors
Authors: Jiang Weixiong , Zhang Han , Zeng Ling‐Li , Shen Hui , Qin Jian , Thung Kim‐Han , Yap Pew‐Thian , Liu Huasheng , Hu Dewen , Wang Wei , Shen Dinggang
Published: October 2020

Antisocial behavior (ASB) is believed to have neural substrates; however, the association between ASB and functional brain networks remains unclear. The temporal variability of the functional connectivity (or dynamic FC) derived from resting‐state functional MRI has been suggested as a useful metric for studying abnormal behaviors including ASB. This is the first study using low‐frequency fluctuations of the dynamic FC to unravel potential system‐level neural correlates with ASB. Specifically, we individually associated the dynamic FC patterns with the ASB scores (measured by Antisocial Process Screening Device) of the male offenders (age: 23.29 ± 3.36 years) based on machine learning. Results showed that the dynamic FCs were associated with individual ASB scores. Moreover, we found that it was mainly the inter‐network dynamic FCs that were negatively associated with the ASB severity. Three major high‐order cognitive functional networks and the sensorimotor network were found to be more associated with ASB. We further found that impaired behavior in the ASB subjects was mainly associated with decreased FC dynamics in these networks, which may explain why ASB subjects usually have impaired executive control and emotional processing functions. Our study shows that temporal variation of the FC could be a promising tool for ASB assessment, treatment, and prevention.
Experimental investigation of internal erosion behaviours in inclined seepage flow
Authors: Liang Yue , Yeh Tian‐Chyi J. , Ma Chen , Zhang Qiang , Yang Dehong , Hao Yonghong
Published: October 2020

Internal erosion is one of the most common causes of failure in hydraulic engineering structures, such as embankments and levees. It also plays a vital role in the geohazards (such as landslides and sinkhole developments) and more importantly, the earth landscape evolution, which has a broad environmental and ecosystem impacts. The groundwater seepage is multi‐directional, and its multi‐dimensional nature could affect the initiation and the progression of internal erosion. With a newly developed apparatus, we carry out nine internal erosion experiments under five different seepage directions. The results reveal that the critical hydraulic gradient increases as the seepage direction varies from the horizontal to the vertical. After a global erosion is triggered, preferential erosion paths distribute randomly from the bottom to the top of the specimen. If the seepage direction is not vertical, small preferential erosion paths merge into a large erosion corridor, in which the loss of fine particles is significant but negligible outside. Results of experiments manifest that the erosion is heterogeneous and three‐dimensional, even in the unidirectional seepage flow. The particles are rapidly eroded at the early stage of the erosion, indicating a high erosion rate. With the erosion time increasing, the particle loss slows down and even ceases if the time is long enough. The erosion rate increases if the seepage direction approaches a vertical direction. Overall, the erosion rate approximately decreases with erosion time exponentially. We proposed exponential equations to illustrate the variation of the erosion rate in the erosion process.
Analgesia for vaginal birth: Secondary analysis from the WHO Multicountry Survey on Maternal and Newborn Health
Authors: Souza Marcio A. , Cecatti Jose G. , Guida Jose P. , Souza Joao P. , Gulmezoglu Ahmet M. , Betran Ana P. , R.Torloni Maria , Vogel Joshua P. , Costa Maria L. ,   for the WHO‐MCS study group
Published: October 2020

Objective

To evaluate the use of analgesia during labor in women who had a vaginal birth and to determine the factors associated with its use.

Methods

A secondary analysis was performed of the WHO Multicountry Survey on Maternal and Newborn Health, a cross‐sectional, facility‐based survey including 359 healthcare facilities in 29 countries. The prevalence of analgesia use for vaginal birth in different countries was reported according to the Human Development Index (HDI). Sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics of the participants with and without analgesia were compared. The prevalence ratios were compared across countries, HDI groups, and regions using a design‐based χ2 test.

Results

Among the 221 345 women who had a vaginal birth, only 4% received labor analgesia, mainly epidural. The prevalence of women receiving analgesia was significantly higher in countries with a higher HDI than in countries with a lower HDI. Education was significantly associated with increased use of analgesia; nulliparous women and women undergoing previous cesarean delivery had a significantly increased likelihood of receiving analgesia.

Conclusion

Use of analgesia for women undergoing labor and vaginal delivery was low, specifically in low‐HDI countries. Whether low use of analgesia reflects women’s desire or an unmet need for pain relief requires further studies.
Diagnosing colorectal abnormalities using scattering coefficient maps acquired from optical coherence tomography
Authors: Zeng Yifeng , Chapman William C. , Lin Yixiao , Li Shuying , Mutch Matthew , Zhu Quing
Published: October 2020

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has shown potential in differentiating normal colonic mucosa from neoplasia. In this study of 33 fresh human colon specimens, we report the first use of texture features and computer vision‐based imaging features acquired from en face scattering coefficient maps to characterize colorectal tissue. En face scattering coefficient maps were generated automatically using a new fast integral imaging algorithm. From these maps, a gray‐level cooccurrence matrix algorithm was used to extract texture features, and a scale‐invariant feature transform algorithm was used to derive novel computer vision‐based features. In total, 25 features were obtained, and the importance of each feature in diagnosis was evaluated using a random forest model. Two classifiers were assessed on two different classification tasks. A support vector machine model was found to be optimal for distinguishing normal from abnormal tissue, with 94.7% sensitivity and 94.0% specificity, while a random forest model performed optimally in further differentiating abnormal tissues (i.e., cancerous tissue and adenomatous polyp) with 86.9% sensitivity and 85.0% specificity. These results demonstrated the potential of using OCT to aid the diagnosis of human colorectal disease.
miR‐301b and NR3C2 co‐regulate cells malignant properties and have the potential to be independent prognostic factors in breast cancer
Authors: Peng Yun , Xi Xun , Li Juntao , Ni Jun , Yang Hongbiao , Wen Changyong , Wen Meiling
Published: October 2020

This study intends to address the function of miR‐301b/nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 2 (NR3C2) in breast cancer. The Cancer Genome Atlas database was processed to investigate the expression of miR‐301b/NR3C2 in breast cancer samples, as well as the relationship between their expression and the prognosis of the patients. Cox regression analysis was performed to determine whether miR‐301b/NR3C2 was an independent predictor of the patient's prognosis. Associations between miR‐301b and NR3C2 were analyzed by prediction website, dual‐luciferase assay, and Pearson correlation coefficient. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analyses were implemented to detect gene expression. The relevant biological characteristics of MCF7 and BCAP‐37 cells were tested by cell counting kit‐8, colony formation, and transwell assays. Lower expression of NR3C2, which was closely related to the bad prognosis of breast cancer patients, was presented in breast cancer samples and can be used as an independent predictor. miR‐301b, as an upstream regulator of NR3C2, was highly expressed in breast cancer samples and can be used as an independent predictor as well. Notably, a higher level of miR‐301b and lower level of NR3C2 were related to the reduced overall survival in patients with breast cancer. The proliferative and migratory behaviors of cells were elevated or blocked after overexpression of miR‐301b or NR3C2, respectively. However, the above situation was attenuated after together upregulation of miR‐301b and NR3C2. The present data afforded evidence that miR‐301b may be a tumor‐promoting miRNA in breast cancer, and that miR‐301b/NR3C2 axis mediated tumor development from cell proliferation and migration.
Use of therapeutic plasma exchange for pediatric neurological diseases
Authors: Ipe Tina S. , Meyer Erin K. , Sanford Kimberly W. , Joshi Sarita K. , Wong Edward C. C. , Raval Jay S.
Published: October 2020

Therapeutic plasma exchange is used to treat neurological diseases in the pediatric population. Since its first use in pediatric patients with hepatic coma in the form of manual whole blood exchange, therapeutic plasma exchange has been increasingly used to treat these disorders of the nervous system. This expansion is a result of improved techniques and apheresis instruments suitable for small children, as well as the recognition of its applicability to many diseases in the pediatric population. This review provides a historical overview of the use of therapeutic apheresis in children and highlights the most common applications for therapeutic plasma exchange to treat neurological disorders in children.
Application and implication of scanning electron microscopy for evaluation of palyno‐morphological features of Vitaceae from Pakistan
Authors: Lubna  , Zafar Muhammad , Ahmad Mushtaq , Shah Ghulam Mujtaba , Khan Amir Muhammad , Kilic Omer , Yilmaz Erkan , Ozdemir Fethi A. , Ali Muhammad Ishtiaq , Shah Muhammad Ajmal , Sultana Shazia , Ahmad Shabir
Published: October 2020

The present study aimed to investigate the palyno‐morphological features of species of family Vitaceae from Pakistan. A total of nine species, belonging to four genera were collected, pressed, identified, and then analyzed microscopically. Both quantitative and qualitative characters of the pollen grains were recorded including polar and equatorial diameter, P/E ratio, number of colpi and pores, exine thickness and shapes of the pollen in both polar and equatorial view, and exine sculpturing using Leica microscope fitted with camera Meiji Infinity 1 and then analyzed statistically using software IBM SPSS Statistics 20. The results of the present study demonstrated the variations in polar and equatorial diameter, exine thickness, P/E ratio, pollen shape, and exine sculpturing of the studied species and highlighted the significance of pollen morphology as an identification tool. The present study may contribute to better understand the classification at genus level, which will support the future phylogenetic characterization of the family.
Quantification of Myocardial Perfusion With Vasodilation Using Arterial Spin Labeling at 1.5T
Authors: Aramendía‐Vidaurreta Verónica , Echeverría‐Chasco Rebeca , Vidorreta Marta , Bastarrika Gorka , Fernández‐Seara María A.
Published: October 2020

Background

Myocardial perfusion is evaluated in first‐pass MRI using a gadolinium‐based contrast agent, which limits its repeatability and restricts its use in patients with abnormal kidney function. Arterial spin labeling (ASL) is a promising technique for measuring myocardial perfusion without contrast injection. The ratio of stress to rest perfusion, termed myocardial perfusion reserve (MPR), is an indicator of the severity of stenosis in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

Purpose

To quantify perfusion increases with pharmacological vasodilation, explore MPR differences between segments with and without perfusion defects, and examine the correlations between quantitative ASL and semiquantitative first‐pass measurements.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Sixteen patients with suspected CAD: 10 classified as “healthy,” having normal perfusion on first‐pass and no enhancement on late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), and six as “nonhealthy,” having hypoperfused segments including ischemic and infarcted.

Field Strength/Sequence

Flow‐sensitive alternating inversion recovery (FAIR) rest–stress cardiac ASL with balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP), rest–stress first‐pass imaging using gradient‐echo and LGE using a phase‐sensitive inversion‐recovery bSSFP at 1.5T.

Assessment

For healthy subjects, rest–stress perfusion data were compared in global, coronary artery territory, and segment regions of interest (ROIs). A segmental MPR comparison was performed between normal segments from healthy subjects and abnormal segments from nonhealthy subjects. Correlations between ASL and first‐pass parameters were explored.

Statistical Tests

Wilcoxon‐signed‐rank test, nonparametric factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Pearson's/Spearman's correlations.

Results

Perfusion increases were significant globally (P = 0.005), per coronary artery territory (P = 0.015), and per segment (P = 0.03 for all segments in ASL and first‐pass, except anteroseptal in ASL P = 0.04). MPR differences between normal and abnormal segments were significant (P = 0.0028: ASL, P = 0.033: first‐pass). ASL and first‐pass measurements were correlated (MPR: r = 0.64, P = 0.008 and perfusion: rho = 0.47, P = 0.007).

Data Conclusion

This study demonstrates the feasibility of ASL to detect hyperemia, the potential to differentiate segments with and without perfusion defects, and significant correlations between ASL and semiquantitative first‐pass.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

1
Efficacy of N‐acetylcysteine in the prevention of alcohol relapse‐like drinking: Study in long‐term ethanol‐experienced male rats
Authors: Cano‐Cebrián María José , Fernández‐Rodríguez Sandra , Hipólito Lucia , Granero Luis , Polache Ana , Zornoza Teodoro
Published: October 2020

Alcohol use disorders are chronic and highly relapsing disorders, thus alcoholic patients have a high rate of recidivism for drug use even after long periods of abstinence. The literature points to the potential usefulness of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) in the management of several substance use disorders probably due to its capacity to restore brain homeostasis of the glutamate system disrupted in addiction. However, there is little evidence in the case of alcohol. The aim of this study was to explore the potential anti‐relapse efficacy of NAC using the alcohol deprivation effect (ADE) model in long‐term experienced rats. Two experiments were performed in male Wistar rats to: (a) test the efficacy of NAC to prevent relapse and (b) discriminate the best administration schedule (intermittent vs. continuous) for NAC. In the first experiment, animals were implanted with mini‐osmotic pumps delivering 0 or 1 mg/hr NAC during 14 days. In a second experiment, rats received 0, 60, or 100 mg/kg once daily by subcutaneous injection. The efficacy to prevent ADE was evaluated in both experiments. NAC subcutaneously administered, either by continuous infusion or by intermittent injections regimen, is able to block the ADE. The best results were obtained after using 60 mg/kg NAC dose. Our findings support the hypothesis that NAC may represent a valuable therapy in the management of alcohol relapse.
Force‐deflection behavior of NiTi archwire at different configurations of bracket system
Authors: Ahmad M.N. , Mahmud A.S. , Razali M.F. , Mokhtar N.
Published: October 2020

NiTi shape memory alloy archwire is widely used in orthodontic treatment, replacing stainless steel for the flat and low deactivation force it can offer. However, the presence of friction at the contact region of wire and bracket may cause the low deactivation force to be ineffective to induce tooth movement. This work evaluated the bending deformation behavior of NiTi archwire in application using conventional orthodontic stainless steel bracket in levelling treatment. Experimental test rig was developed to perform three‐brackets bending test at room temperatures (27 °C). The bracket used was 0.022‐in stainless steel and the archwire was 0.016‐in NiTi round wire. Fabricated polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon) bracket was used as a control experiment to represent frictionless condition of deformation on three‐bracket bending. Additionally, elastomeric ligature was also used to evaluate the effect of friction produced by the elastomer. Bending tests were done at 3 different deflection magnitudes of 2 mm, 3 mm and 4 mm. The results show that bending deformation behavior of the wire on frictionless Teflon bracket produced a flat force plateau on both activation and deactivation. On the other hand, when stainless steel brackets were used, the force plateau exhibited positive gradient on the activation and negative gradient on the deactivation.
On the existence and uniqueness of solution of boundary‐domain integral equations for the Dirichlet problem for the nonhomogeneous heat transfer equation defined on a 2D unbounded domain
Authors: Woldemicheal Z. W. , Fresneda‐Portillo C.
Published: October 2020

A system of boundary‐domain integral equations (BDIEs) is obtained from the Dirichlet problem for the diffusion equation in nonhomogeneous media defined on an exterior two‐dimensional domain. We use a parametrix different from the one employed in Dufera and Mikhailov (2019). The system of BDIEs is formulated in terms of parametrix‐based surface and volume potentials whose mapping properties are analyzed in weighted Sobolev spaces. The system of BDIEs is shown to be equivalent to the original boundary value problem and uniquely solvable in appropriate weighted Sobolev spaces suitable for unbounded domains.
A Diet‐Dependent Microbiota Profile Associated with Incident Type 2 Diabetes: From the CORDIOPREV Study
Authors: Camargo Antonio , Vals‐Delgado Cristina , Alcala‐Diaz Juan F. , Villasanta‐Gonzalez Alejandro , Gomez‐Delgado Francisco , Haro Carmen , Leon‐Acuña Ana , Cardelo Magdalena P. , Torres‐Peña Jose D. , Guler Ipek , Malagon Maria M. , Ordovas Jose M. , Perez‐Martinez Pablo , Delgado‐Lista Javier , Lopez‐Miranda Jose
Published: October 2020

Scope

The differences between the baseline gut microbiota of patients who developed type 2 diabetes (T2D) consuming a low‐fat (LF) or a Mediterranean (Med) diet are explored and risk scores are developed to predict the individual risk of developing T2D associated with the consumption of LF or Med diet.

Methods and Results

All the patients from the CORDIOPREV study without T2D at baseline (n = 462) whose fecal sample are available, are included. Gut microbiota is analyzed by 16S sequencing and the risk of T2D after a median follow‐up of 60 months assessed by Cox analysis. Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) analysis shows a different baseline gut microbiota in patients who developed T2D consuming LF and Med diets. A higher abundance of Paraprevotella, and lower Gammaproteobacteria and B. uniformis are associated with T2D risk when an LF diet is consumed. In contrast, higher abundances of Saccharibacteria, Betaproteobacteria, and Prevotella are associated with T2D risk when a Med diet is consumed.

Conclusion

The results suggest that different interactions between the microbiome and dietary patterns may partially determine the risk of T2D development, which may be used for selecting personalized dietary models to prevent T2D.
Kinetics and Mechanism Comparison between Cr/Ti‐Based Bimetallic and Ti‐Based Monometallic Catalysts for Ethylene Polymerization
Authors: Zhou Yi , He Xuelian , Liu Boping
Published: October 2020

Two (SiO2/MgR2/MgCl2)·TiClxmodel catalysts are made by refluxing TiCl4with 0.35 wt% Cr modified silica gel/alkyl Mg adducts or silica gel/alkyl Mg adducts, which are named as Cr/Ti‐based bimetallic Cat‐1 and Ti‐based monometallic Cat‐2, respectively. The kinetics, active center counting, morphology, and polymer characterizations are studied to disclose the effect of low loading Cr active sites on the Cr/Ti‐based bimetallic Cat‐1 polymerization under mild conditions. The activity of Cat‐1 is 120.4% higher than that of Cat‐2, with a 114.1% higher [C*]/[M] value. Morphology results show the Cat‐1 fragmentation in the first 3 min is highly accelerated, which helps to release buried clustered Ti sites. Differential scanning calorimetry results show that low‐temperature heat absorbing shoulder of polyethylene (PE) from Cat‐2 demonstrates the signal of low crystallinity polymer made by Cat‐2 during the first 60 s, verifying the fluffy polymer in morphology results. GPC results show PE from Cat‐1 has a higherMwin the first 3 min while a lowerMwin the end. The Cat‐1, which release active sites faster, has a highMwin the early time. LowerMwin the 900 s attributes to the effect of relative lowerMwpolymer made by Cr sites, compared with Cat‐2.
Active predictive vibration suppression algorithm for structural stability and tracking control of nonlinear multivariable continuum‐mechanics mobile systems
Authors: Homaeinezhad M. R. , FotoohiNia F. , Yaqubi S.
Published: October 2020

This article presents novel schemes using which a robustly stable and feasible optimal controller can be obtained for uncertain vibrational systems. Furthermore, the aforementioned objectives are satisfied solely employing a rigid approximation of continuum mechanics systems. Simultaneously, significant reductions in control complexity and computation burden are attained. On this basis, a new model predictive sliding mode control method for general class of continuum mechanics systems is developed. The control scheme is constructed based on a mathematical model corresponding to equivalent rigid representation of nonlinear flexible mechanism, considering that the partial differential equations (PDE) for original system may not be solvable using analytical approaches. The proposed method features a model predictive control (MPC) based on minimization of an optimization cost constituting predicted sliding functions over a finite prediction horizon. In order to mitigate undesired vibrational effects, control input weighting factor considered in calculation of cost is updated in every sample in accordance with intensity of vibrations observed through a limited number of acceleration sensors. Robust feasibility and stability of control algorithm in presence of modeling uncertainty are guaranteed based on investigation of a Lyapunov‐based terminal cost function within the assigned constraints. The performance of closed‐loop system in control of a flexible mechanism is evaluated for a multitude of reference signals. Simulations are conducted in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) environment utilizing ANSYS Mechanical APDL. Obtained results indicate superior performance in terms of tracking quality, closed‐loop stability, and mitigation of undesired vibrational effects in comparison with existing control schemes.
An assessment of socioeconomic impact of COVID‐19 pandemic in India
Authors: Aneja Ranjan , Ahuja Vaishali
Published: October 2020

Coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic has created an unprecedented loss and disruptions over all across the world. From developed to developing, no country has been spared from its brunt. In this paper, we have analyzed the implications of COVID‐19 on the economy and society of India so far. An impact assessment on the basis of available lietrature is made on all the three sectors—primary, secondary and service sector along with the impact on migrants, health, poverty, job losses, informal sector, environment, and so forth. The all sectors of the economy has been disproportionately affected and even within a sector, there is a disproportionate loss. The societal impacts are dire too with job losses, mental illness, increased domestic violence, and so forth. Some positive effects can be seen in terms of improved air quality, water quality, wildlife but the sustainability of such impact is conditional upon post‐COVID and people's habits and future policies related to the environment.