bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forage productivity and soil properties in dual‐purpose cover crop systems
Authors: Simon Logan M. , Obour Augustine K. , Holman Johnathon D. , Johnson Sandy K. , Roozeboom Kraig L.
Published: September 2021

Intensification of dryland cropping systems with cover crops (CCs) in the semi‐arid central Great Plains could enhance soil health and diversify production when used for forage. This study was conducted from 2015 to 2020 to determine forage mass, nutritive value of CCs, and effects of dual‐purpose CCs on soil properties in a no‐till winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]–fallow cropping system. Treatments were oat (Avena sativa L.)/triticale (× Triticosecale Wittm.) CCs grown in place of fallow, which were hayed, grazed by yearling heifers, or left standing. Forage mass varied across years and averaged 3,546 kg ha−1 for standing CCs. Hayed and grazed CCs removed 73 and 26% of available forage. Soil bulk density was unaffected by haying or grazing compared to standing CCs. Soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks in the 0‐to‐15‐cm depth in 2019 were similar among CC treatments (27.31 Mg ha−1). Stocks with standing and hayed CCs were greater than fallow (24.79 Mg ha−1) which was similar to grazed CCs. However, in 2020, stocks were less with hayed CCs (21.80 Mg ha−1) compared to grazed or standing CCs (24.27 Mg ha−1) and all were similar to fallow. Mean weight diameter of water stable aggregates increased with standing and grazed CCs (2.89 mm) compared to fallow (1.67 mm) in both years but hayed CCs were greater than fallow in 1 yr. Findings suggest CCs can replace fallow to produce high‐quality forage while improving soil health but residue management is critical when CC productivity is low.
Numerical investigation of mechanical axial dispersion in slender fixed‐beds
Authors: Jurtz Nico , Schönherr Tobias David , Kraume Matthias
Published: September 2021

The description of the mixing characteristics is of fundamental interest for modeling mass transport in fixed‐bed reactors. A method based on Lagrangian parcel tracking is presented to determine the axial dispersion coefficient in the mechanical dispersion regime from particle‐resolved computational fluid dynamics (CFD) results. The impact of fluid dynamic entry effects and the necessary averaging length on the axial dispersion coefficient is studied, showing that the often reported dependency on the entry length is almost not existent, but a result of insufficient averaging, caused by to short bed heights. The axial dispersion coefficients are determined for different particle shapes and a novel reactor wall concept. A strong correlation is found between the relative variance of the axial velocity and the axial dispersion coefficient.
Application of nature‐inspired algorithms with generalized Pitzer‐Debye‐Hückel (PDH) refinement for liquid liquid equilibria (LLE) correlation in cyclic di‐ether systems
Authors: Ganguly Arkava , Bairagya Priyotosh , Banerjee Tamal , Kundu Debashis
Published: September 2021

Metaheuristic algorithms such as the genetic algorithm (GA) and cuckoo search (CS) algorithms have been widely used for phase equilibria computation. In the present work, correlation of the liquid–liquid splitting of 1,3‐dioxolane + water and 1,4‐dioxane + water mixtures using the buffers 3‐n‐morpholino‐propanesulfonic acid (MOPS), 3‐[4‐(2‐hydroxymethyl)‐1‐piperazinyl]‐propanesulfonic acid (HEPPS), and the ionic‐liquid (IL) tetra‐methyl‐ammonium 3‐[4‐(2‐hydroxymethyl)‐1‐piperazinyl]‐propanesulfonate [TMA][EPPS] is performed by the GA‐NRTL, CS‐NRTL, GA‐UNIQUAC, and CS‐UNIQUAC methods. Thermodynamically consistent binary interaction parameters are obtained after a rigorous investigation of the dimensionless excess Gibbs free energy of mixing GM(L)/RT topology thereby satisfying the Gibbs minor common tangent phase stability test. The results indicate that the GA‐UNIQUAC method performs the best for correlating the biphasic regions with very high quantitative accuracies and well‐resolved GM(L)/RT surface description. Furthermore, the UNIQUAC model is significantly enhanced by incorporating a thermodynamically consistent extended Pitzer‐Debye‐Hückel* (PDH*) contribution term considering weak electrostatic long‐range interactions within the IL‐rich phases.
Assessment of the median ages at sexual maturation stages of Brazilian schoolchildren according to overweight status and type of school over a 5‐year period: 2007–2012/2013
Authors: Matsuo Luísa Harumi , Adami Fernando , Silva Diego Augusto Santos , de Assis Guedes de Vasconcelos Francisco , Longo Giana Zarbato , Schoueri Jean Henri Maselli , de Fragas Hinnig Patrícia
Published: September 2021

Objectives

A secular trend of earlier puberty has been observed in girls, and, although more uncertain in boys, is associated with an increasing trend in the prevalence of overweight and obesity. We aimed to compare the median ages of sexual maturation stages in schoolchildren from a city in southern Brazil over a 5‐year period, according to weight status and type of school.

Methods

Two cross‐sectional studies were performed in 2007 and 2012/2013, including 2215 and 1614 schoolchildren, respectively. Body mass index z‐scores were calculated and categorized as either nonoverweight or overweight (including obesity). The type of school was categorized as either public or private. Sexual maturation was self‐assessed according to the Tanner stages. Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests were performed to compare the median ages of sexual maturation stages.

Results

The median age decreased for almost all stages over the 5‐year period in both sexes. In boys, the decrease ranged from 0.3 to 1.0 years (stages 2, 3, 4, and 5 for genitalia, and stages 2 and 4 for pubic hair), and from 0.3 to 0.7 years (stages 2, 3, and 4 for breast, and stages 3, 4, and 5 for pubic hair). In 2012, overweight students had lower median ages for most stages compared to those in 2007, especially in girls. Differences by type of school were balanced across years.

Conclusions

The median age of Tanner's stages after 5 years was reduced in both sexes. In overweight girls, the reduction was more pronounced. The results by type of school were inconsistent.
A phenotypic expansion of TRNT1 associated sideroblastic anemia with immunodeficiency, fevers, and developmental delay
Authors: Odom John , Amin Hitha , Gijavanekar Charul , Elsea Sarah H. , Kralik Stephen , Chinen Javier , Lin Yuezhen , Yates Amber Meshell Mayfield , Mizerik Elizabeth , Potocki Lorraine , Scaglia Fernando
Published: September 2021

Sideroblastic anemia with immunodeficiency, fevers, and developmental delay (SIFD; MIM #616084) is an autosomal recessive disorder of mitochondrial and cytosolic tRNA processing caused by pathogenic, biallelic variants in TRNT1. Other features of this disorder include central nervous system, renal, cardiac, ophthalmological features, and sensorineural hearing impairment. SIFD was first described in 2013 and to date, it has been reported in 46 patients. Herein, we review the literature and describe two siblings with SIFD and note the novel phenotype of hypoglycemia in the context of growth hormone (GH) deficiency. GH deficiency without hypoglycemia has previously been reported in three patients with SIFD, but GH deficiency had not been firmly ascribed to SIFD. We propose to expand the phenotype to include GH deficiency, hypoglycemia, and previously unreported dysmorphic features. Furthermore, we highlight the intrafamilial variability of the disease by the discordance of our patients' clinical phenotypes and biochemical profiles measured by untargeted metabolomics analysis. Several metabolomic abnormalities were observed in both patients, and these may represent a potential biochemical signature for SIFD.
Characterization of the tumor immune microenvironment of sinonasal squamous‐cell carcinoma
Authors: Gu Jeffrey T. , Claudio Natalie , Betts Courtney , Sivagnanam Shamilene , Geltzeiler Mathew , Pucci Ferdinando
Published: September 2021

Background

Treatment and prognosis of sinonasal squamous‐cell carcinoma (SNSCC) have not significantly improved despite improvements in radical therapy. Characterization of the tumor immune microenvironment (TiME) may identify patient subgroups associated with disease recurrence, and provide new biomarkers for improved patient stratification and treatment.

Methods

The TiME was quantitatively evaluated by multiplex immunohistochemistry (mIHC) in archived tissue sections from 38 patients with SNSCC, and were assessed for differences between recurrent (n = 20) and nonrecurrent (n = 18) groups. Hierarchical clustering analyses were performed to identify phenotypic TiME subgroups within the cohort and were used to compare survival outcomes.

Results

Our mIHC analysis revealed increased T‐cell populations and decreased myeloid‐cell populations in SNSCC patients without recurrent disease, as compared with patients with recurrent disease. Within T‐cell subsets, there was a significantly higher percentage of granzyme B+, T‐bet+, Eomes+ T cells, as well as higher proliferation of CD8+ T cells within the nonrecurrent group relative to the recurrent group. Furthermore, immune‐cell complexity profiles of SNSCC revealed hyper– and hypo–T‐cell–inflamed, myeloid‐inflamed, B‐cell–inflamed, and broadly hypoinflamed subtypes not previously identified by gene expression analyses. Our study revealed that presence of either hyper– or hypo–T‐cell–inflamed TiME subtypes were associated with increased survival outcomes as compared with broadly hypoinflamed TiME subtypes (p = 0.035 and 0.0376, respectively).

Conclusions

The TiME of SNSCC reveals distinct subtypes, which may correlate with recurrence and survival outcomes.
Targeted gene expression profiling of inverted papilloma and squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Tong Charles C. L. , Koptyra Mateusz , Raman Pichai , Rathi Komal S. , Choudhari Namrata , Lin Xiang , Seckar Tyler , Wei Zhi , Kohanski Michael A. , O'Malley Bert W. , Cohen Noam A. , Kennedy David W. , Adappa Nithin D. , Robertson Erle S. , Baranov Esther , Kuan Edward C. , Papagiannopoulos Peter , Jalaly Jalal B. , Feldman Michael D. , Storm Phillip B. , Resnick Adam C. , Palmer James N.
Published: September 2021

Background

Inverted papilloma (IP) is a sinonasal tumor with a well‐known potential for malignant transformation. The purpose of this study was to identify the genes and pathways associated with IP, with progression to carcinoma‐in‐situ and invasive carcinoma.

Methods

To determine genes and molecular pathways that may indicate progression and correlate with histologic changes, we analyzed six IP without dysplasia, five IP with carcinoma‐in‐situ, and 13 squamous cell carcinoma ex‐IP by targeted sequencing. The HTG EdgeSeq Oncology Biomarker Panel coupled with next‐generation sequencing was used to evaluate 2560 transcripts associated with solid tumors.

Results

Progressive upregulation of 11 genes were observed (CALD1, COL1A1, COL3A1, COL4A2, COL5A2, FN1, ITGA5, LGALS1, MMP11, SERPINH1, SPARC) in the order of invasive carcinoma > carcinoma‐in‐situ > IP without dysplasia. When compared with IP without dysplasia, more genes are differentially expressed in invasive carcinoma than carcinoma‐in‐situ samples (341 downregulated/333 upregulated vs. 195 downregulated/156 upregulated). Gene set enrichment analysis determined three gene sets in common between the cohorts (epithelial mesenchymal transition, extracellular matrix organization, and coagulation).

Conclusions

Progressive upregulation of genes specific to IP malignant degeneration has significant clinical implications. This panel of 11 genes will improve concordance of histologic classification, which can directly impact treatment and patient outcomes. Additionally, future studies on larger tumor sets may observe upregulation in the gene panel that preceded histologic changes, which may be useful for further risk stratification.
Relationship between socioeconomic status, exposure to airborne pollutants, and chronic rhinosinusitis disease severity
Authors: Velasquez Nathalia , Gardiner Lauren , Cheng Tracy Z. , Moore John A. , Boudreau Robert M. , Presto Albert A. , Lee Stella E.
Published: September 2021

Background

Air pollution directly interacts with airway mucosa, yet little is known about how pollutants affect upper airway inflammation. Studies have shown increased incidence of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), rhinitis, and asthma in areas with higher traffic pollution, and these neighborhoods are often associated with lower socioeconomic status (SES). The Area Deprivation Index (ADI) assesses neighborhood‐level SES by zip code. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between SES and exposure to inhaled pollutants and CRS disease severity.

Methods

CRS patients with and without nasal polyps (CRSwNP and CRSsNP, respectively) were identified (total patients = 234; CRSwNP patients = 138; CRSsNP patients = 96). Pollutant concentrations, including particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5), black carbon (BC), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), were measured at 70 sites within the defined countywide sites and used to estimate patient exposures. SES was measured by ADI state deciles. Disease severity metrics included the modified Lund‐Mackay score (LMS), the need for systemic steroids, and functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). Associations were analyzed and identified using linear, logistic, and Poisson multivariable regression.

Results

The distribution of CRSsNP and CRSwNP patients across ADI state deciles was similar. ADI, however, was a predictor of exposure to airborne pollutants (PM2.5, BC, and NO2) with a 1.39%, 2.39%, and 2.49% increase in PM2.5, BC, and NO2 per increasing decile increment (p < 0.0001), respectively, which demonstrated a direct correlation between deprived neighborhoods and higher levels of exposure to PM2.5, BC, and NO2 with an increase in pollutant levels per increase in ADI decile. Furthermore, ADI was a predictor for increased steroid treatment.

Conclusion

Lower SES predicted higher exposure to air pollution and increased disease severity in patients with CRS as demonstrated by the increased need for steroid treatment.
Endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis: 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test 5‐year results
Authors: Simmonds Jonathan C. , Paz‐Lansberg Marianella , Scangas George , Metson Ralph
Published: September 2021

Background

Currently, limited data exist as to long‐term disease‐specific outcomes after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). In this report, we present outcomes data collected over 5 years in a large prospective cohort of patients who underwent surgical treatment for CRS.

Methods

Patients who completed the 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) before ESS were asked to complete the same survey at yearly intervals for 5 years thereafter. The impact of patients’ demographics and clinical characteristics on clinical outcome was measured using mixed effects modeling for univariate and multivariable analysis. Multivariable logistic regression threshold analyses were also performed.

Results

Among the 925 patients enrolled in the study, the SNOT‐22 was completed after ESS by 641 patients (69.3%) at 1 year and 338 patients (36.5%) at 5 years. The mean preoperative SNOT‐22 score of 48.5 (standard error [SE], 0.69) improved at all subsequent yearly time‐points, including 5 years (mean, 25.8; SE, 1.08; p < 0.0001). SNOT‐22 scores over time were impacted by nasal polyps (p < 0.001), environmental allergies (p = 0.010), diabetes (p = 0.032), and preoperative Lund‐Mackay score (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Endoscopic sinus surgery appears to be effective at improving the quality of life of patients with CRS for both the short and long term. The successful outcome of such surgery, however, is influenced by a variety of clinical factors, which should be taken into account by clinicians who are considering surgical treatment of CRS for select patients.
The association of active and passive tobacco smoke exposure with chronic rhinosinusitis symptom severity: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Wolf Jeffrey S. , Papadimitriou John C. , Morales Robert E. , Califano Joseph A. , Kline Neila L. , Bhatnagar Kavita , Hebert Andrea M. , Taylor Rodney J.
Published: September 2021

Background

 Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) causes a great deal of morbidity. There are a multitude of causal factors, though their precise contribution to symptom severity has yet to be defined.  We hypothesized that exposure to both primary and secondhand tobacco smoke would correlate with more severe symptoms of CRS.

Methods

This is a prospective cross‐sectional study performed at an academic tertiary care medical center from 2010 to 2013. A total of 85 consecutive patients with chronic sinusitis were screened; 70 with medically refractory CRS requiring functional Endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) were enrolled. Recent tobacco exposure was assessed using serum cotinine levels. Sinonasal mucosa was biopsied to assess ciliary architecture. Demographics, medical history, tobacco and environmental exposures, and computed tomography (CT) imaging were also collected. Two quality of life (QOL) surveys were administered: one disease specific, Sinonasal Outcomes Test‐20 (SNOT‐20), and one general, Short Form‐12 (SF‐12). Results were correlated with the aforementioned exposures.

Results

 The 70 patients had an average age of 46 years, and 42% were male.  Variables that correlated with worse SNOT‐20 scores included serum cotinine (r = 0.43, p = 0.002), number of cigarettes smoked daily (r = 0.27, p = 0.03), and number of secondhand cigarettes exposed to per day (r = 0.29, p = 0.04). There were no significant correlations between SNOT‐20 scores and Lund–MacKay or axonemal ultrastructural abnormalities (AUA)‐ciliary scores. The two five‐variable models best predicted disease‐specific QOL.

Conclusions

 Increased amounts of serum cotinine and primary and secondhand smoke exposure were associated with worse sinonasal QOL. This study establishes an objective relationship between smoke exposure and patient‐perceived severity of CRS, emphasizing the importance of tobacco cessation counseling as part of management.
Enzyme Catalysis in Non‐Native Environment with Unnatural Selectivity Using Polymeric Nanoreactors
Authors: Gao Jingjing , Le Stephanie , Thayumanavan S.
Published: September 2021

The utilization of enzymes for catalysis in organic solvents, while exhibiting selectivity to different substrates, is a big challenge. We report an amphiphilic random copolymer system that self‐assembles with enzymes in an organic solvent to form nanoreactors. These encapsulated enzymes are not denatured and they do preserve the catalytic activity. The cross‐linkable functional groups in the hydrophobic compartments of the polymers offer to control accessibility to the enzyme. This varied accessibility due to the polymer host, rather than the enzyme itself, endows the nanoreactor with an unnatural selectivity. The findings here highlight the significant potential of simple polymer‐based enzyme nanoreactors to execute selective organic reactions under non‐native conditions.
Reduction of Nitrogen Oxides by Hydrogen with Rhodium(I)–Platinum(II) Olefin Complexes as Catalysts
Authors: Jurt Pascal , Abels Anne Sofie , Gamboa‐Carballo Juan José , Fernández Israel , Le Corre Grégoire , Aebli Marcel , Baker Matthew G. , Eiler Frederik , Müller Fabian , Wörle Michael , Verel René , Gauthier Sébastien , Trincado Monica , Gianetti Thomas L. , Grützmacher Hansjörg
Published: September 2021

The nitrogen oxides NO2, NO, and N2O are among the most potent air pollutants of the 21st century. A bimetallic RhI–PtII complex containing an especially designed multidentate phosphine olefin ligand is capable of catalytically detoxifying these nitrogen oxides in the presence of hydrogen to form water and dinitrogen as benign products. The catalytic reactions were performed at room temperature and low pressures (3–4 bar for combined nitrogen oxides and hydrogen gases). A turnover number (TON) of 587 for the reduction of nitrous oxide (N2O) to water and N2 was recorded, making these RhI–PtII complexes the best homogeneous catalysts for this reaction to date. Lower TONs were achieved in the conversion of nitric oxide (NO, TON=38) or nitrogen dioxide (NO2, TON of 8). These unprecedented homogeneously catalyzed hydrogenation reactions of NOx were investigated by a combination of multinuclear NMR techniques and DFT calculations, which provide insight into a possible reaction mechanism. The hydrogenation of NO2 proceeds stepwise, to first give NO and H2O, followed by the generation of N2O and H2O, which is then further converted to N2 and H2O. The nitrogen−nitrogen bond‐forming step takes place in the conversion from NO to N2O and involves reductive dimerization of NO at a rhodium center to give a hyponitrite (N2O22−) complex, which was detected as an intermediate.
Lewis Pair Catalyzed Regioselective Polymerization of (E,E)‐Alkyl Sorbates for the Synthesis of (AB)n Sequenced Polymers
Authors: Zhao Wuchao , Li Fukuan , Li Chengkai , He Jianghua , Zhang Yuetao , Chen Changle
Published: September 2021

In this contribution, Lewis pairs (LPs) composed of N‐heterocyclic olefins (NHOs) with different steric hindrance and nucleophilicity as Lewis bases (LBs) and Al‐based compounds with comparable acidity but different steric hindrance as Lewis acids (LAs) were applied for 1,4‐selective polymerization of (E,E)‐methyl sorbate (MS) and (E,E)‐ethyl sorbate (ES). The effects of steric hindrance, electron‐donating ability, and acidity of LPs on MS and ES polymerization were systematically investigated. High catalytic activity and high initiation efficiency can be achieved, leading to the formation of PMS with 100 % 1,4‐selectivity, tunable molecular weight (Mw up to 333 kg mol−1), and narrow molecular weight distribution (MWD). Block copolymerization of ES and methyl methacrylate (MMA) was also realized. Meanwhile, this system can be applied to other homologous conjugated diene substrates. Furthermore, simple chemical reactions can efficiently convert PMS to different polymers with strict (AB)n sequence structures, such as poly(sorbic acid), poly(propylene‐alt‐methyl acrylate), poly(propylene‐alt‐acrylic acid), poly(propylene‐alt‐allyl alcohol), and poly(ethylene‐alt‐2‐butylene).
Recent advances in computational fluid dynamics simulation of flotation: a review
Authors: Wang Hainan , Yan Xiaokang , Li Danlong , Zhou Ruoqian , Wang Lijun , Zhang Haijun , Liu Qingxia
Published: September 2021

Flotation process is a multi‐phase and multi‐scale complex flow system, in which hydrodynamics plays an indispensable role. In recent years, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) numerical simulation has gradually become a powerful tool for studying flotation. In this review, the theories of CFD numerical simulation in flotation research were reviewed, involving various turbulence models and multi‐phase flow simulation approaches. An attempt has been made to analyze and discuss the characteristics and applicability of different turbulence models and multi‐phase flow simulation approaches in flotation researches in detail. The CFD simulation of two commonly used flotation devices, that is, mechanically agitated flotation machine and flotation column, has been reviewed in detail. The detailed principles, operation, and hydrodynamic of flotation devices were discussed from the viewpoint of CFD. The advances made in CFD simulation for studying flotation process, including particle suspension, bubble dispersion, particle–bubble collision, attachment, and detachment subprocesses have been critically analyzed. Focused analysis was given on the influence mechanism of turbulence on the particle–bubble interactions. Finally, the gaps in the available literature are discussed and potential research directions are also proposed.
Fabrication and insights into the mechanisms of collagen‐based hydrogels with the high cell affinity and antimicrobial activity
Authors: Zhu Shichen , Yu Jiehang , Xiong Shanbai , Ding Yuting , Zhou Xuxia , Hu Yang , Chen Wenxin , Lin Yuanli , Dao Linrui
Published: September 2021

In this study, the adhesive collagen‐based hydrogels with antibacterial ability were prepared via arginine and dopamine modification, and the corresponding characterizations were also performed. A significant increase of N atom content from guanidine group was found via X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), suggesting the guanidine groups were successfully introduced into the systems. The XRD and FTIR patterns indicated that arginine and dopamine did not interrupt the intact triple‐helix conformation of collagen. Both the thermal stability and dynamic modulus of collagen hydrogels first increased and then decreased with the rising introduction of arginine. The increasing attachment of arginine retarded the further aggregations of collagen molecules due to the enhanced electrostatic repulsion, which was also confirmed by the microstructure observed by SEM. The antimicrobial activity of hydrogels modulus intensified significantly with the initial introduction of arginine (0.07 ~ 0.28 mM) (p < 0.05) via the measurements of inhibition zone diameter and OD260 value. However, the further addition of arginine did not result in the significant changes in the antibacterial performance. The biocompatibility of collagen hydrogels was not compromised, while the cell adhesiveness was improved. This work may provide a new strategy for the design of collagen‐based antibacterial hydrogels for the wound dressing applications.
A kelp‐inspired polyester fabric surface of UV grafted hydrogel for drag reduction
Authors: Dai Xianghui , Yu Xia , Zheng Jian , Yang Xiaoxu , Pan Jianjun , Zhang Xiaoting , Min Jie
Published: September 2021

The resorcinol diglycidyl acrylate (RDA) is firmly introduced to the surface of polyester (PET) fibers by a simple dip‐rolling and baking method, and a free radical polymerization reaction is initiated on the surface of PET fabrics under ultraviolet light (UV) light to obtain three hydrogel layers with different structure, including polyacrylamide (PAAM), polyacrylic acid (PAAC) and poly‐N‐isopropylacrylamide (PNIPAAM). It is shown that the pretreatment‐UV grafting method can be used to obtain hydrogel layers with porous structure on the surface of PET fabric, and all three hydrogel layers have better frictional properties than kelp. Among them, the friction coefficient of PET‐PAAM surface can reach 0.02, which is 17% of the friction coefficient of kelp surface and 83% lower than that of the untreated PET fabric surface, giving the PET fabric surface excellent interfacial drag reduction characteristics. It can be applied to the surface of underwater activity equipment as well as ships to improve moving efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
Modification of wood with copolymers based on glycidyl methacrylate and alkyl methacrylates for imparting superhydrophobic properties
Authors: Kolyaganova OlgaV. , Klimov Viktor V. , Bryuzgin Evgeny V. , Le Mahn D. , Kharlamov Valentin O. , Bryuzgina Ekaterina B. , Navrotsky Alexander V. , Novakov Ivan A.
Published: September 2021

Wood is an irreplaceable structural and biodegradable material, which is subject to swelling, shrinkage, significant deformation of structural elements, and products when its moisture content changes. This paper proposes wood surface modification with reactive copolymers based on glycidyl methacrylate and alkyl methacrylates to impart superhydrophobic properties with initial contact angles up to 166°. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy were used to study the features of polymer coating formation and to determine the modifier penetration depth, which was more than 1000 μm. It has been shown that copolymers do not fill the initial capillary system of wood. Modified wood is characterized by stable water‐repellent properties with low‐water diffusion rates, with the water absorption rate reduced by more than three times compared to that of initial wood. Polymer coatings provide water repellency, retain the appearance of original wood, and provide increased buoyancy.
Smoke suppression and thermal conductivity of epoxy resin modified byAl2O3and hyperbranched flame retardant
Authors: Qiao Huawei , Lin Xiuhuang , Zhong Wei , Lan Jiashui , Zhang Huagui , Chen Mingfeng
Published: September 2021

In this work, aluminum oxide (Al2O3) was added to hyperbranched flame retardant (PTDOB) modified epoxy resin (EP) system to develop a novel EP thermoset (Al2O3‐PTDOB/EP) with superior comprehensive performance. Al2O3‐PTDOB/EP exhibited excellent flame retardancy, smoke‐suppressing effects, and enhanced mechanical properties due to the crack pinning effects caused by the introduction of Al2O3. In detail, the limiting oxygen index (LOI) and UL‐94 rating of Al2O3‐PTDOB/EP‐3 reached 34.6% and V‐0 rating, respectively. Cone calorimeter test showed that the total heat release, total smoke production (TSP) and average effective heat of combustion of Al2O3‐PTDOB/EP‐3 were reduced by 14.5, 27.3 and 19.2% in comparison to PTDOB/EP, respectively. Furthermore, the impact, tensile and flexural strengths of Al2O3‐PTDOB/EP‐3 were significantly improved by 16.7 28.4 and 10.7%, respectively, because the addition of Al2O3provided the carbon layer barrier and crack pinning effect for the EP matrix. Moreover, thermal conductivity of Al2O3‐PTDOB/EP was also improved due to the excellent thermal conductivity of Al2O3, which had broadened its application in the field of electronic packaging.
Preparation and properties of nonionic waterborne epoxy resin
Authors: Wang Kaijie , Li Yuanyuan , Sang Shilin , Zhang Shijie , Chen Lilin , Tang Jialing
Published: September 2021

Most waterborne epoxy resin emulsifiers are inactive, and the free emulsifier will precipitate out during the curing of the coating film, which will seriously affect the water resistance, solvent resistance, and hardness of the coating film. Herein we prepared a new type of nonionic active epoxy emulsifier. First, 1,4‐butanediol diglycidyl ether reacts with polyethylene glycol at a higher temperature to form an epoxy‐terminated modified hydrophilic segment. Then 2,4‐toluene diisocyanate link the hydrophilic segment and the epoxy resin E‐31 (according the reactivity of the hydroxyl group on the epoxy resin E‐31) to obtain an emulsifier for emulsifying epoxy resins. The synthesized emulsifier's cloud point is 89°C and hydrophilic–lipophilic balance is about 13.1. The most suitable condition of the phase inversion is that the emulsification temperature is 60°C and the stirring speed is 1500 r min−1. The coating films obtained from synthesized emulsifier is dense and uniform with excellent mechanical properties.
Heritage as an affective and meaningful information literacy practice: An interdisciplinary approach to the integration of asylum seekers and refugees
Authors: Le Louvier Kahina , Innocenti Perla
Published: September 2021

Information studies have identified numerous needs and barriers to the integration of asylum seekers and refugees; however, little emphasis has been placed thus far on their need to keep their own culture, values, and traditions alive. In this work, we use ethnographic constructivist grounded theory to explore the place of heritage in the information experience of people who have sought asylum in the United Kingdom. Based on our findings, we propose to conceptualize heritage as an affective and meaningful information literacy practice. Such conceptualization fosters integration by allowing people to simultaneously maintain their own ways of knowing and adapt to local ones. Our research approach provides scholars with a conceptual tool to holistically explore affective, meaningful, and cultural information practices. This study also reveals implications for policymakers, third sector organizations, and cultural institutions working toward the more sustainable integration of asylum seekers and refugees.
Design, Synthesis and Late‐Stage Modification of Indane‐Based Peptides via [2+2+2] Cyclotrimerization
Authors: Kotha Sambasivarao , Kumar Gupta Naveen , Sreevani Gaddamedi , Rao Panguluri Nageswara
Published: September 2021

Here, we prepared several dipeptides containing 2‐aminoindane‐2‐carboxylic acid (Aic) and carried out further synthetic transformations. Synthesis and purification of modified peptides by using [2+2+2] cyclotrimerization is a challenging task. We are able to modify the unusual amino acids and peptide derivatives by late‐stage incorporation of benzylhalo functionality. To incorporate benzylhalo moiety we used [2+2+2] cyclotrimerization in the presence of Mo(CO)6. These halo derivatives are potential substrates for further modification by Sonogashira reaction, Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling, sultine formation, and the Diels–Alder reaction sequence.
Supramolecular Enantiodifferentiating Photocyclodimerization of 2‐Anthracenecarboxylic Acid Mediated by Bridged β‐Cyclodextrins: Critical Effects of the Host Structure, pH and Co‐Solvents
Authors: Wang Xiaoqian , Ji Jiecheng , Rao Ming , Wu Wanhua , Yang Cheng
Published: September 2021

Several sulfoxide‐ and sulfone‐bridged β‐cyclodextrin (CD) dimers were synthesized for mediating the enantiodifferentiating [4+4] photocyclodimerization of 2‐anthracenecarboxylic acid (AC). The complexation behavior of these chiral hosts with AC was investigated by UV‐vis, circular dichroism, fluorescence, and NMR spectroscopies and certified the formation of 1 : 1 and 1 : 2 host‐guest complexes. The product distribution and enantioselectivity of the photoreaction turned out to be a critical function of the chemical structure of bridged CDs. Comparing to the sulfur‐bridged 2AX−3GX β‐CD dimer 7, the conversion of the photolyzes with sulfoxide‐bridged was significantly improved, and the ee of cyclodimer 2 was remarkably increased from −82.8% with 7 to −96.7% with the sulfoxide‐bridged 2AX−3GX β‐CD dimer 8. The relative yields and ee values of the slipped cyclodimers 5 and 6 were greatly enhanced in the presence of 6 M CsCl. The reaction selectivity is susceptible to the pH variation of the aqueous buffer solution, demonstrating that the supramolecular photochirogenesis is controlled by multidimensional factors, including the chemical structure of the chiral host, solvent, and pH conditions.
Plasmonic Au‐Metal Oxide Nanocomposites for High‐Temperature and Harsh Environment Sensing Applications
Authors: Keerthana L. , Ahmad Dar Mushtaq , Dharmalingam Gnanaprakash
Published: September 2021

Noble metal nanoparticles like Au have long been admired for their brilliant colour, significantly influenced by plasmon resonance. When embedded in metal oxides, they exhibit unique properties which make them an excellent choice for sensing in high‐temperature and harsh environment atmospheres. In this review, the various morphologies of Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) used in combination with metal oxides for sensing gases at temperatures greater than 300 °C are discussed. Theoretical discussions on the plasmon resonance properties of AuNPs as well as computational techniques like finite difference time domain (FDTD), are often used for understanding and correlating their extinction spectra and are briefed initially. The sensing properties of AuNPs embedded on a metal oxide matrix (such as TiO2, SiO2, NiO etc) for quantifying multiple analytes are then elucidated. The effect of high temperature as well as gas environments including corrosive atmospheres on such nanocomposites, and the different approaches to comprehend them are presented. Finally, techniques and methods to improve on the challenges associated with the realization and integration such Au‐metal oxide plasmonic nanostructures for applications such as combustion monitoring, fuel cells, and other applications are discussed.
A comprehensive distribution‐free scheme for tri‐aspect surveillance of complex processes
Authors: Mukherjee Amitava , Qiu Peihua , Marozzi Marco
Published: September 2021

Distribution‐free charting schemes for process monitoring are more robust and reliable than their parametric counterparts when the process distributions are unknown and complicated. Most of the existing control charts are uni‐aspect schemes because they can detect a shift in only one aspect of the process distribution, like location or scale. Research on schemes for simultaneous surveillance of location and scale parameters has been very active in recent years, leading to many bi‐aspect schemes. These schemes do not explicitly deal with the shape of the process distribution. However, a shift in the shape parameter with or without a location or scale shift can occur in practice, especially in production or time‐to‐event processes. Note that there are nonparametric schemes for detecting general shifts based on goodness‐of‐fit test statistics or empirical likelihood ratio statistics, which cannot isolate if there is a shift in location, scale, shape, or combination of these parameters. This article introduces a new distribution‐free process monitoring scheme that can detect a shift in the location, scale or shape parameters, or any combinations of them. The new scheme is based on a combined statistic designed via Euclidean distance of the standardized Wilcoxon statistic for location, the standardized Ansari–Bradley statistic for scale, and the standardized Savage‐type statistic for shape. We discuss the implementation design using the average run‐length as the performance metric and investigate the proposed scheme's in‐control performance. It is shown that the new charting scheme is in‐control robust irrespective of the underlying process distribution and therefore applicable to monitor any univariate continuous processes. An out‐of‐control performance comparison study of the new scheme with many existing schemes shows that the new scheme is preferable to the existing schemes. We illustrate the proposed chart with real data to monitor a passenger train's arrival delays in Italy's regional route. The proposed scheme is comprehensive because it integrates the follow‐up procedure via integrated sub‐charts for classifying the signaling component.
Microbial production of hyaluronic acid: the case of an emergent technology in the bioeconomy
Authors: Ciriminna Rosaria , Scurria Antonino , Pagliaro Mario
Published: September 2021

In 1988 a novel fermentation route to high molecular weight hyaluronan mediated by Streptococcus zooepidemicus was first reported. In a few years, following rapidly expanding demand for hyaluronan as a key ingredient of facial dermal fillers, streptococcal production was commercialized, first in Western Europe and North America, and subsequently in China. Outlining the case for the microbial production of hyaluronan, an emergent technology in the bioeconomy, the purpose of this study is to further advance the field of sustainable, high‐added‐value, biobased production. The study recounts how this bioproduction actually developed, its advantages, and its current limitations. The research and educational outcomes of the study offer useful lessons to bioeconomy scholars and practitioners. © 2021 The Authors. Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining published by Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Bifunctionalized isotopologs as calibrants for standard‐free quantitation of drug metabolites in plasma by liquid chromatography coupled with radiometry and mass spectrometry
Authors: Gong Yong , Chen Jie , Lim Heng‐Keang , Weng Naidong , Salter Rhys
Published: September 2021

The reported method involves a novel workflow that eliminates the need for authentic reference standards for the quantitation of drug metabolites in biological samples using a single multi‐isotopically labeled compound bearing both radio and stable isotopes. The resulting radio and stable bifunctionalized isotopolog (RADSTIL) of the parent drug is employed as a substrate for in vitro biotransformation to targeted RADSTILs of metabolites as calibrants. Inclusion of a radio label enables both radiometric and mass spectrometric detection. The addition of stable labels ensures the subsequent isotopic interference‐free quantitation of unlabeled metabolites in preclinical and clinical samples. This affords a more accurate quantitation workflow compared with the current semi‐quantitation method, which utilizes isotopic interfering radio isotopologs of metabolites alone as calibrants. The proof‐of‐concept is illustrated with (14C,13C2)‐acetaminophen where in vitro biotransformation produced (14C,13C2)‐sulfate and (14C,13C2)‐glucuronide calibrants. Absolute quantitation of the acetaminophen metabolites was then achieved by liquid chromatography coupled with radiometry and mass spectrometry. Quantitative data obtained by this method fell within 82–86% of the values from conventional LC–MS/MS method.
Pharmacokinetic and metabolic analysis of an Alzheimer's disease therapeutic in rat serum via microfluidic CZE–MS
Authors: Kelley Zachary D. , Lovell Mark A. , Lynn Bert C.
Published: September 2021

Sensitive, high‐throughput methods for pharmacokinetic (PK) profiling are essential for potential therapeutics during critical stages of clinical trials. The application of a microfluidic capillary zone electrophoresis mass spectrometry (CZE–MS) method for PK profiling allows for rapid, sensitive and in‐depth analysis of multiple samples within a short timeframe. Here, a CZE–MS approach for PK analysis was compared with a traditional UHPLC–MS approach when analyzing serum extracts from rats treated with a potential Alzheimer's disease therapeutic, BNC‐1. Resulting PK data generated from both methods displayed statistical similarities. Additionally, the separation efficiency attributed to the use of the CZE–MS method provided substantial metabolic regulation data that was not apparent in the UHPLC–MS method. Additionally, the coupling of the CZE–MS method to the data processing software, MZmine2, was used to monitor changes in metabolism and observe putative BNC‐1‐derived metabolites. The ability to perform fast analyses without sacrificing sensitivity or metabolic information suggests that this CZE–MS method is ideal for metabolomics‐inclusive, high‐throughput PK profiling.
Ectodermal disturbance in development shared by anorexia and schizophrenia may reflect neurodevelopmental abnormalities
Authors: Remberk Barbara , Niwiński Piotr , Brzóska‐Konkol Ewa , Borowska Anna , Papasz‐Siemieniuk Anna , Brągoszewska Joanna , Bażyńska Anna Katarzyna , Szostakiewicz Łukasz , Herman Anna
Published: September 2021

Minor physical abnormalities (MPA) are subtle dysmorphic features of bodily structures that have little or no impact on function. Most MPA develop during the first gestational trimester and are considered as important indicators of neuroectodermal deficiencies emerging during early brain development. A higher frequency of MPA was confirmed in schizophrenia patients and their relatives, when compared to controls. These findings are consistent with the neurodevelopmental model of schizophrenia. A neurodevelopmental component amongst other risk factors has also been recently proposed for anorexia nervosa (AN). The current study aimed to assess MPA frequency in adolescent inpatients with either schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) or AN as compared to healthy controls (HC). The Waldrop Scale was used for assessing MPA. The mean MPA total score and mean head subscore was significantly higher in both test groups than in HC. There were no statistically significant differences between SSD and AN groups. The MPA profile (not frequency) was similar in all three groups. This finding is consistent both with widely acknowledged neurodevelopmental schizophrenia hypothesis as well as with more recent neurodevelopmental model of AN. Nevertheless, the findings should not be overgeneralized and further studies are warranted.
Systemic administration of dendrimer N‐acetyl cysteine improves outcomes and survival following cardiac arrest
Authors: Modi Hiren R. , Wang Qihong , Olmstead Sarah J. , Khoury Elizabeth S. , Sah Nirnath , Guo Yu , Gharibani Payam , Sharma Rishi , Kannan Rangaramanujam M. , Kannan Sujatha , Thakor Nitish V.
Published: September 2021

Cardiac arrest (CA), the sudden cessation of effective cardiac pumping function, is still a major clinical problem with a high rate of early and long‐term mortality. Post‐cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS) may be related to an early systemic inflammatory response leading to exaggerated and sustained neuroinflammation. Therefore, early intervention with targeted drug delivery to attenuate neuroinflammation may greatly improve therapeutic outcomes. Using a clinically relevant asphyxia CA model, we demonstrate that a single (i.p.) dose of dendrimer‐N‐acetylcysteine conjugate (D‐NAC), can target “activated” microglial cells following CA, leading to an improvement in post‐CA survival rate compared to saline (86% vs. 45%). D‐NAC treatment also significantly improved gross neurological score within 4 h of treatment (p < 0.05) and continued to show improvement at 48 h (p < 0.05). Specifically, there was a substantial impairment in motor responses after CA, which was subsequently improved with D‐NAC treatment (p < 0.05). D‐NAC also mitigated hippocampal cell density loss seen post‐CA in the CA1 and CA3 subregions (p < 0.001). These results demonstrate that early therapeutic intervention even with a single D‐NAC bolus results in a robust sustainable improvement in long‐term survival, short‐term motor deficits, and neurological recovery. Our current work lays the groundwork for a clinically relevant therapeutic approach to treating post‐CA syndrome.
Cost‐effectiveness of prophylactic hysterectomy in first‐degree female relatives with Lynch syndrome of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the United States: a microsimulation study
Authors: Alblas Maaike , Peterse Elisabeth F. P. , Du Mengmeng , Zauber Ann G. , Steyerberg Ewout W. , van Leeuwen Nikki , Lansdorp‐Vogelaar Iris
Published: September 2021

Background

To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of prophylactic hysterectomy (PH) in women with Lynch syndrome (LS).

Methods

We developed a microsimulation model incorporating the natural history for the development of hyperplasia with and without atypia into endometrial cancer (EC) based on the MISCAN‐framework. We simulated women identified as first‐degree relatives (FDR) with LS of colorectal cancer patients after universal testing for LS. We estimated costs and benefits of offering this cohort PH, accounting for reduced quality of life after PH and for having EC. Three minimum ages (30/35/40) and three maximum ages (70/75/80) were compared to no PH.

Results

In the absence of PH, the estimated number of EC cases was 300 per 1,000 women with LS. Total associated costs for treatment of EC were $5.9 million. Offering PH to FDRs aged 40–80 years was considered optimal. This strategy reduced the number of endometrial cancer cases to 5.4 (−98%), resulting in 516 quality‐adjusted life years (QALY) gained and increasing the costs (treatment of endometrial cancer and PH) to $15.0 million (+154%) per 1,000 women. PH from earlier ages was more costly and resulted in fewer QALYs, although this finding was sensitive to disutility for PH.

Conclusions

Offering PH to 40‐ to 80‐year‐old women with LS is expected to add 0.5 QALY per person at acceptable costs. Women may decide to have PH at a younger age, depending on their individual disutility for PH and premature menopause.