bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Pyrazolo[1,2‐a]cinnolines via Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed [4+2] Annulation Reactions of Pyrazolidinones with Sulfoxonium Ylides
Authors: Hu Shulei , Han Xu , Xie Xiong , Fang Feifei , Wang Yong , Saidahmatov Abdusaid , Liu Hong , Wang Jiang
Published: May 2021

A method to synthesize pyrazolo[1,2‐a]cinnolines via rhodium(III)‐catalyzed C−H activation of pyrazolidinones and subsequent [4+2] annulation of sulfoxonium ylides was developed. 5‐Substituted or 5,10‐disubstituted pyrazolo[1,2‐a]cinnolines could be obtained by slightly adjusting the reaction conditions. Gram‐scale synthesis and practical transformations proved the practicability of this method. The mechanism of this method was proposed in the article on the basis of preliminary mechanistic results and previous reports. This method features simplified operation, metal‐oxidant free, and readily available reactants.

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Antisolvent‐ and Annealing‐Free Deposition for Highly Stable Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells via Modified ZnO
Authors: Wang Ziyu , Zhu Xuejie , Feng Jiangshan , Wang Chenyu , Zhang Cong , Ren Xiaodong , Priya Shashank , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Yang Dong
Published: May 2021

Even though ZnO is commonly used as the ETL in the perovskite solar cell (PSC), the reactivity of perovskite deposited thereupon limits its performance. Herein, an ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid‐complexed ZnO (E‐ZnO) is successfully developed as a significantly improved electron selective layer (ESLs) in perovskite device. It is found that E‐ZnO exhibits higher electron mobility and better matched energy level with perovskite compared to ZnO. In addition, in order to eliminate the proton transfer reaction at the ZnO/perovskite interface, a high quality perovskite film fabrication process that requires neither annealing nor antisolvent is developed. By taking advantages of both E‐ZnO and the new process, the highest efficiency of 20.39% is obtained for PSCs based on E‐ZnO. Moreover, the efficiency of unencapsulated PSCs with E‐ZnO retains 95% of its initial value exposed in an ambient atmosphere after 3604 h. This work provides a feasible path toward high performance of PSCs, and it is believed that the present work will facilitate transition of perovskite photovoltaics in flexible and tandem devices since the annealing‐ and antisolvent‐free technology.
Negative Photoconductance Effect: An Extension Function of the TiOx‐Based Memristor
Authors: Zhou Guangdong , Sun Bai , Hu Xiaofang , Sun Linfeng , Zou Zhuo , Xiao Bo , Qiu Wuke , Wu Bo , Li Jie , Han Juanjuan , Liao Liping , Xu Cunyun , Xiao Gang , Xiao Lihua , Cheng Jianbo , Zheng Shaohui , Wang Lidan , Song Qunliang , Duan Shukai
Published: May 2021

The negative photoconductance (NPC) effect, defined as an increase in resistance upon exposure to illumination, holds great potential for application in photoelectric devices. A prepared memristor with the structure of Ag|graphene quantum dots (GQDs)|TiOx|F‐doped SnO2 exhibits typical bipolar resistive switching (RS) memory behavior. The NPC effect is impressively observed in the high resistance state branch of the RS memory, enabling the memristor function to be extended to both memory logic display and multistate data storage. The observed NPC effect is attributed to the excitation, migration, and compensation of oxygen vacancy at the GQDs/TiOx interface, at which the electron transportation is efficiently restricted because of the variation in the charge distribution and electrostatic potential under illumination. Experiments, theoretical calculations, and physical models are used to provide engineer the interface with the aim of building the NPC effect in the memristive device. These results unveil a new horizon on extending the functionality of the memristor.
Dissolving Candlelit Microneedle for Chronic Inflammatory Skin Diseases
Authors: Ohn Jungyoon , Jang Mingyu , Kang Bo Mi , Yang Huisuk , Hong Jin Tae , Kim Kyu Han , Kwon Ohsang , Jung Hyungil
Published: May 2021

Chronic inflammatory skin diseases (CISDs) negatively impact a large number of patients. Injection of triamcinolone acetonide (TA), an anti‐inflammatory steroid drug, directly into the dermis of diseased skin using needle‐syringe systems is a long‐established procedure for treating recalcitrant lichenified lesions of CISDs, referred to as TA intralesional injection (TAILI). However, TAILI causes severe pain, causing patients to be stressed and reluctant to undergo treatment. Furthermore, the practitioner dependency on the amount and depth of the injected TA makes it difficult to predict the prognosis. Here, candle flame (“candlelit”)‐shaped TA‐loaded dissolving microneedles (Candlelit‐DMN) are designed and fabricated out of biocompatible and biodegradable molecules. Candlelit‐DMN distributes TA evenly across human skin tissue. Conjoined with the applicator, Candlelit‐DMN is efficiently inserted into human skin in a standardized manner, enabling TA to be delivered within the target layer. In an in vivo skin inflammation mouse model, Candlelit‐DMN inserted with the applicator effectively alleviates inflammation by suppressing inflammatory cell infiltration and cytokine gene expression, to the same extent as TAILI. This Candlelit‐DMN with the applicator arouses the interest of dermatologists, who prefer it to the current TAILI procedure.
A Noninvasive Multianalytical Approach for Lung Cancer Diagnosis of Patients with Pulmonary Nodules
Authors: Liu Quan‐Xing , Zhou Dong , Han Tian‐Cheng , Lu Xiao , Hou Bing , Li Man‐Yuan , Yang Gui‐Xue , Li Qing‐Yuan , Pei Zhi‐Hua , Hong Yuan‐Yuan , Zhang Ya‐Xi , Chen Wei‐Zhi , Zheng Hong , He Ji , Dai Ji‐Gang
Published: May 2021

Addressing the high false‐positive rate of conventional low‐dose computed tomography (LDCT) for lung cancer diagnosis, the efficacy of incorporating blood‐based noninvasive testing for assisting practicing clinician's decision making in diagnosis of pulmonary nodules (PNs) is investigated. In this prospective observative study, next generation sequencing‐ (NGS‐) based cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) mutation profiling, NGS‐based cfDNA methylation profiling, and blood‐based protein cancer biomarker testing are performed for patients with PNs, who are diagnosed as high‐risk patients through LDCT and subsequently undergo surgical resections, with tissue sections pathologically examined and classified. Using pathological classification as the gold standard, statistical and machine learning methods are used to select molecular markers associated with tissue's malignant classification based on a 98‐patient discovery cohort (28 benign and 70 malignant), and to construct an integrative multianalytical model for tissue malignancy prediction. Predictive models based on individual testing platforms have shown varying levels of performance, while their final integrative model produces an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.85. The model's performance is further confirmed on a 29‐patient independent validation cohort (14 benign and 15 malignant, with power > 0.90), reproducing AUC of 0.86, which translates to an overall sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 85.7%.
Emergent Magnetic Phenomenon with Unconventional Structure in Epitaxial Manganate Thin Films
Authors: Yang Mingwei , Jin Kuijuan , Yao Hongbao , Zhang Qinghua , Ji Yiru , Gu Lin , Ren Wenning , Zhao Jiali , Wang Jiaou , Guo Er‐Jia , Ge Chen , Wang Can , Xu Xiulai , Wu Qiong , Yang Guozhen
Published: May 2021

A variety of emergent phenomena are enabled by interface engineering in the complex oxides heterostructures. While extensive attention is attracted to LaMnO3 (LMO) thin films for observing the control of functionalities at its interface with substrate, the nature of the magnetic phases in the thin film is, however, controversial. Here, it is reported that the ferromagnetism in two and five unit cells thick LMO films epitaxially deposited on (001)‐SrTiO3 substrates, a ferromagnetic/ferromagnetic coupling in eight and ten unit cells ones, and a striking ferromagnetic/antiferromagnetic pinning effect with apparent positive exchange bias in 15 and 20 unit cells ones are observed. This novel phenomenon in both 15 and 20 unit cells films indicates a coexistence of three magnetic orderings in a single LMO film. The high‐resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy suggests a P21/n to Pbnm symmetry transition from interface to surface, with the spatial stratification of MnO6 octahedral morphology, corresponding to different magnetic orderings. These results can shed some new lights on manipulating the functionality of oxides by interface engineering.
Mitigating the Undesirable Chemical Reaction between Organic Molecules for Highly Efficient Flexible Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Prasetio Adi , Jahandar Muhammad , Kim Soyeon , Heo Jinhee , Kim Yong Hyun , Lim Dong Chan
Published: May 2021

Organic photovoltaics (OPVs) with nonfullerene acceptors (NFAs) feature excellent device performance and device stability. However, they are facing problems when the amine‐rich polyelectrolytes are used as cathode interfacial layers. In this work, a small molecule, ethanedithiol (EDT) at the polyethyleneimine ethoxylated (PEIE)/active layer interface is inserted for mitigating the undesirable reaction between amine‐rich groups and electron‐acceptor moieties in NFA. The main role of EDT is to passivate the PEIE surface and prevent electron flow to NFA and the unwanted reaction can be mitigated. It improves the performance of OPV devices by reducing the work function, decreasing trap‐assisted recombination, and improving electron‐mobility. As a result, the flexible device with the PEIE interfacial layer with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.20% can be improved to 10.11% after the inclusion of EDT. Moreover, EDT‐modified device can retain 98.18% after it is bent for 200 cycles and can maintain 80.83% of its initial PCE under continuous light illuminated in ambient conditions without any encapsulation. Based on these findings, the proposed strategy constitutes a crucial step toward highly efficient flexible OPVs.
Influence of Crystallinity of Lithium Thiophosphate Solid Electrolytes on the Performance of Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Wang Shuo , Zhang Wenbo , Chen Xiang , Das Dyuman , Ruess Raffael , Gautam Ajay , Walther Felix , Ohno Saneyuki , Koerver Raimund , Zhang Qiang , Zeier Wolfgang G. , Richter Felix H. , Nan Ce‐Wen , Janek Jürgen
Published: May 2021

Solid electrolytes (SEs) largely define the properties of all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) and are expected to improve their safety, stability, and performance. Their ionic conductivity has much improved in recent years, enabling higher power and energy density. However, more subtle parameters, such as crystallinity, may also influence the electrochemical performance of cells. In this work, the correlation between the performance of ASSBs and thiophosphate SEs having the same stoichiometry, but different crystallinity is investigated. In In/InLi | SE | LiCoO2@ LiNb0.5Ta0.5O3 model cells, better cycling and rate performance is achieved when using glass/glass‐ceramic SEs (e.g., 75Li2S·25P2S5 glass, 70Li2S·30P2S5 glass, and Li6PS5Cl glass‐ceramic). This can be mostly attributed to the mitigation of contact loss by the glass/glass‐ceramic SEs compared to their crystalline SE counterparts. Furthermore, the SE decomposition at typical cathode potentials is investigated by using SE and carbon composites as cathodes. Larger volume changes and more severe decomposition are observed with crystalline SEs in the SE/carbon composite cathode after cycling. The crystalline SEs show higher electronic partial conductivity which results in more degradation in the composite cathode. This work sheds light on optimized composite cathode design for ASSB by carefully choosing solid electrolytes with appropriate mechanical and (electro‐)chemical properties.
Salvage hepatectomy for local recurrence after particle therapy using proton and carbon ion beams for liver cancer
Authors: Tanaka Motofumi , Komatsu Shohei , Kido Masahiro , Toyama Hirochika , Tominaga Masahiro , Uchida Yoichiro , Terashima Kazuki , Demizu Yusuke , Okimoto Tomoaki , Fukumoto Takumi
Published: May 2021

Aim

With the increased use of particle therapy for liver cancer, local recurrence after particle therapy increased. Salvage hepatectomy is an acceptable treatment option for local recurrence following particle therapy; however, its safety and effectiveness remain unclear. Therefore, this multi‐center study aimed to verify the feasibility and efficacy of salvage hepatectomy and assess clinical issues associated with its application.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed the perioperative outcomes, prognosis, and pathological characteristics of 15 patients who underwent salvage hepatectomy for local recurrence after particle therapy between 2006 and 2019.

Results

Hepatocellular carcinoma and metastatic liver tumors were noted in eight and seven patients, respectively. The mean total dose and number of fractions were 66.5 Gy and 12, respectively, and the mean interval between particle therapy and surgery was 30.1 months. Major hepatectomy was performed in seven cases. Moreover, the mortality rate was 0%, and surgical complications of Clavien‐Dindo grade IIIa or higher were observed in four cases (27%)—two bile leakages, one pleural effusion, and one refractory skin fistula. The median overall survival time and 5‐year overall survival rate after salvage hepatectomy were 29.9 months and 43.1%, respectively. Histological examination of the irradiated liver tissue surrounding the tumor showed sinusoidal dilatation, loss of hepatocyte, and fibrosis in most cases.

Conclusion

Salvage hepatectomy after particle therapy is a feasible therapy; however, the risk of refractory complications associated with particle therapy is relatively high. Therefore, the first‐line treatment for resectable liver cancer should be carefully determined considering second‐line treatment after local recurrence.
Inhibition of temperature runaway phenomenon in the Sabatier process using bed dilution structure: LBM‐DEM simulation
Authors: Lin Yixiong , Yang Chen , Choi Cheolyong , Zhang Wei , Fukumoto Kazui , Machida Hiroshi , Norinaga Koyo
Published: May 2021

The Sabatier process is promising for carbon dioxide utilization and energy storage. However, the serious problem that limits more comprehensive industrial applications is catalyst deactivation due to the temperature runaway phenomenon. The inert particle dilution approach, including the mixing dilution method and layered dilution method is applied to solve this problem. Based on the lattice kinetic scheme‐lattice Boltzmann method (LKS‐LBM), the effects of three parameters in bed dilution structure reconstructed by the discrete element method (DEM) on temperature distribution and carbon conversion rate were discussed, so as to investigate the relationship between packing structure and temperature distribution. Furthermore, numerical results indicated that an optimal bed dilution structure, which not only can control the peak temperature below the critical temperature to avoid coking and sintering of catalyst, but also can improve the conversion rate by almost 18% compared with the structure without dilution under the same circumstance.
Pediatric Cushing syndrome: An early sign of an underling cancer predisposition syndrome
Authors: Schweiger Bahareh M. , Esakhan Chaya L. , Frishberg David , Grand Katheryn , Garg Ruchira , Sanchez‐Lara Pedro A.
Published: May 2021

Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) is a genetic overgrowth and cancer predisposition syndrome that can be associated with a spectrum of clinical features including isolated lateralized overgrowth, macrosomia, macroglossia, organomegaly, omphalocele/umbilical hernia, and distinct facial features. Because of a range of clinical presentations and molecular defects involving Chromosome 11p15, many cases will fall within what is now being defined as the Beckwith–Wiedemann spectrum (BWSp). Cushing syndrome (CS) in infants is a rare neuroendocrinological disease associated with hypercortisolism that has rarely been reported in patients with BWS. Here, we describe the first case of a 5‐month‐old male with CS secondary to paternal uniparental disomy of Chromosome 11p without additional clinical signs or symptoms of BWS. This case continues to expand the phenotypic spectrum of BWSp.
Visible‐Light Mediated Metal‐Free Cross‐Electrophile Coupling of Isatin Derivatives with Electron‐Poor Alkenes
Authors: Maji Kakoli , Rai Pramod , Maji Biplab
Published: May 2021

A transition metal‐free cross‐electrophile coupling of isatins with acceptor‐substituted alkene has been developed. The reaction operates at room temperature utilizing abundant amine as the terminal reductant under visible light irradiation. A large number of γ‐hydroxy esters and γ‐butyrolactones were synthesized in moderate to good yields tolerating a broad range of functional groups.
Studies of aging nonhuman primates illuminate the etiology of early‐stage Alzheimer's‐like neuropathology: An evolutionary perspective
Authors: Arnsten Amy F. T. , Datta Dibyadeep , Preuss Todd M.
Published: May 2021

Tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease (AD) preferentially afflicts the limbic and recently enlarged association cortices, causing a progression of mnemonic and cognitive deficits. Although genetic mouse models have helped reveal mechanisms underlying the rare, autosomal‐dominant forms of AD, the etiology of the more common, sporadic form of AD remains unknown, and is challenging to study in mice due to their limited association cortex and lifespan. It is also difficult to study in human brains, as early‐stage tau phosphorylation can degrade postmortem. In contrast, rhesus monkeys have extensive association cortices, are long‐lived, and can undergo perfusion fixation to capture early‐stage tau phosphorylation in situ. Most importantly, rhesus monkeys naturally develop amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles comprised of hyperphosphorylated tau, synaptic loss, and cognitive deficits with advancing age, and thus can be used to identify the early molecular events that initiate and propel neuropathology in the aging association cortices. Studies to date suggest that the particular molecular signaling events needed for higher cognition—for example, high levels of calcium to maintain persistent neuronal firing‐ lead to tau phosphorylation and inflammation when dysregulated with advancing age. The expression of NMDAR‐NR2B (GluN2B)—the subunit that fluxes high levels of calcium—increases over the cortical hierarchy and with the expansion of association cortex in primate evolution, consistent with patterns of tau pathology. In the rhesus monkey dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, spines contain NMDAR‐NR2B and the molecular machinery to magnify internal calcium release near the synapse, as well as phosphodiesterases, mGluR3, and calbindin to regulate calcium signaling. Loss of regulation with inflammation and/or aging appears to be a key factor in initiating tau pathology. The vast expansion in the numbers of these synapses over primate evolution is consistent with the degree of tau pathology seen across species: marmoset < rhesus monkey < chimpanzee < human, culminating in the vast neurodegeneration seen in humans with AD.
Effects of large volume, isotonic nasal saline irrigation for acute rhinosinusitis: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Chitsuthipakorn Wirach , Thanaphiphatsatja Angsuthorn , Doungbuppha Peeravuit , Lawpoolsri Saranath , Seresirikachorn Kachorn , Snidvongs Kornkiat
Published: May 2021

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of nasal saline irrigation (large volume, positive pressure isotonic saline) in addition to standard treatment in patients with acute rhinosinusitis (ARS).

Methods

This parallel, randomized controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary hospital. The adult patients with ARS (age ≥18 years) were randomly assigned to two groups. The irrigation group received 0.9% saline irrigation twice daily, using a 250‐ml squeeze bottle, in addition to standard treatment. The no‐irrigation group received standard treatment only. Patients were evaluated at baseline, 1 week, and 2 weeks. The quality of life, rhinologic subscore, symptom score, endoscopy score, and cure rate were compared.

Results

Sixty‐one patients (30: irrigation, 31: no‐irrigation) were enrolled. There were 17 males and 44 females. The mean age was 41.06 years. Although both groups showed improvements, the improvement of each outcome was not different between the groups. Subgroup analysis by ARS subtype showed benefits of irrigation in the common cold subgroup; the improvements that were greater than control included: rhinologic subscore, intergroup mean difference −4.15 [95% confidence interval (CI), −7.49, −0.80] at 1 week and −5.23 [95% CI, −9.69, −0.78] at 2 weeks; combined symptom score −5.35 [95% CI, −10.55, −0.14] at 1 week and −8.02 [95%CI, −14.36, −1.70] at 2 weeks.

Conclusion

The add‐on isotonic nasal saline irrigation using a large volume, positive pressure device did not add benefits equally for all ARS patients. The benefits of irrigation on quality of life and nasal symptoms were only observed in the common cold patient subgroup.
Economic risk analysis for the capture of a distributed energy resource using modular chemical process intensification
Authors: Shankar Raman Arvind , Haapala Karl R. , O'Connor James T. , Paul Brian K.
Published: May 2021

Recent advances in the chemical process industry have allowed for the intensification of reactors and unit operations, by enhancing heat and mass transfer or combining multiple unit operations. Process intensification can enable chemical plants to be constructed in a more compact, modular fashion, offering improvements over conventional on‐site approaches to capital construction, operations and maintenance. This modular chemical process intensification (MCPI) offers several benefits over conventional stick‐built (CSB) plant construction in terms of reduced footprint, reduced energy consumption, lower cost, less waste and improved safety and quality control. However, acceptance of MCPI over CSB construction practices within the chemical industry can be impeded by the uncertain risks associated with investing in new technology. The work here documents a case study during the development of a modular chemical plant for capturing distributed energy resources within chemical production. This MCPI approach to plant construction is contrasted with a CSB approach for producing the same chemical product. Data collection tools were developed, based on a literature review, and data was collected from the technology developer to understand the process technology. Sensitivity analysis was then conducted to analyze the business rationale for the application of MCPI over CSB across several market scenarios. It was found that MCPI would be better suited for capacities up to 150 000 metric tons per year, but that improvement in payback period was needed. Additionally, for MCPI approach to achieve acceptable payback periods, efforts are needed to reduce the cost of capital equipment and compress the schedule for ramping up modular production.
Tetrazole‐Functionalized Zirconium Metal‐Organic Cages for Efficient C2H2/C2H4 and C2H2/CO2 Separations
Authors: Fan Weidong , Peh Shing Bo , Zhang Zhaoqiang , Yuan Hongye , Yang Ziqi , Wang Yuxiang , Chai Kungang , Sun Daofeng , Zhao Dan
Published: May 2021

Isoreticular functionalization is a well‐elucidated strategy for pore environment tuning and the basis of gas separation performance in extended frameworks. The extension of this approach to discrete porous molecules such as metal‐organic cages (MOCs) is conceptually straightforward but hindered by synthetic complications, especially stability concerns. We report the successful isoreticular functionalization of a zirconium MOC with tetrazole moiety by bottom‐up synthesis. The title compound (ZrT‐1‐tetrazol) shows promising C2H2/CO2 and C2H2/C2H4 separation performance, as demonstrated by adsorption isotherms, breakthrough experiments, and density functional theory calculations. The design analogy between MOFs and highly stable MOCs may guide the synthesis of novel porous materials for challenging separation applications.
Synthesis and Structural Elucidation of Bisdibenzocorannulene in Multiple Redox States
Authors: Li Bo , Yang Chenxin , Wang Xinhao , Li Guangwu , Peng Wangwang , Xiao Huiping , Luo Shenglian , Xie Sheng , Wu Jishan , Zeng Zebing
Published: May 2021

We report an anti‐folded bowl‐shaped bisdibenzocorannulene (BDBC) featuring a new chair‐cyclohexane‐like hexagon as a bridge of two dibenzocorannulene moieties. The neutral compound showed multiple redox‐active properties and could be converted to the corresponding redox states through chemical reduction or oxidation. Chemical reduction of BDBC by stoichiometric addition of metallic potassium in the presence of [18]crown‐6 ether, provided a radical anion BDBC.− and a dianion BDBC2−, respectively; while chemical oxidation by silver hexafluoroantimonate(V), converted the neutral compound to an open‐shell singlet diradical dication (BDBC..)2+. The structural consequences of both electron‐reduction and oxidation were closely related to the release of ring‐strain of the bowl‐shaped π‐scaffold and imposed steric hindrance of the hexagonal bridge. In addition, the unusual open‐shell nature of the dication could mainly be attributed to the changing of localized antiaromaticity in the closed‐shell structure to delocalized character in the biradical, and thus the emergence of weakly bonded π‐electrons.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Dealkenylative Arylation of Alkenes with Arylboronic Compounds
Authors: Tan Guangying , Das Mowpriya , Maisuls Iván , Strassert Cristian A. , Glorius Frank
Published: May 2021

The C−C bond formation reaction represents a fundamental and important transformation in synthetic chemistry, and exploring new types of C−C bond formation reactions is recognized as appealing, yet challenging. Herein, we disclose the first example of rhodium‐catalyzed dealkenylative arylation of alkenes with arylboronic compounds, thereby providing an unconventional access to bi(hetero)aryls with excellent chemoselectivity. In this method, C(aryl)−C(alkenyl) and C(alkenyl)−C(alkenyl) bonds in various alkenes and 1,3‐dienes can be cleaved via a hydrometalation and followed by β‐carbon elimination pathway for Suzuki–Miyaura reactions. Furthermore, a series of novel organic fluorescent molecules with excellent photophysical properties has been efficiently constructed with this protocol.
Structural silicone sealants after exposure to laboratory test for durability assessment
Authors: Wallau Wilma , Recknagel Christoph , Smales Glen J.
Published: May 2021

During the service life of structural sealant glazing (SSG) facades, the load‐bearing capacity of the silicone bonds needs to be guaranteed. Laboratory tests can assess the durability of SSG‐systems based on mechanical characteristics of the bond after simultaneous exposure to both climatic and mechanical loads. This article studies how the material characteristics of two common structural sealants are affected by laboratory and field exposure. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) confirms a reduction in the dynamic modulus of exposed silicone samples. Results from thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and small‐angle X‐ray scattering/wide‐angle X‐ray scattering show differences between the two sealants and indicate no/minor changes in the composition and morphology of the laboratory and field exposed sealants. Mechanical characterization methods, such as DMA, and tensile and shear testing of the structural bond, are shown to be sensitive toward the combined climatic and mechanical loadings, and are hence suitable for studying degradation mechanisms of structural sealants.
Radiation initiated synthesis, characterization, and swelling behavior of poly (acrylic acid‐co‐acrylamide)/starch grafted hydrogel
Authors: Ebrahimi Rajabali
Published: May 2021

The powerful waves of ultrasound are used in polymerization reactions in the absence of initiator. In the present research, the hydrogel was obtained by water‐soluble acrylic monomers, starch, and the crosslinking agent of methylene bis acrylamide dissolved in water/glycerol dual. The hydrogel is formed by these waves only in viscous environments such as glycerol, heat, or initiator is not required. In the presence of ultrasound, the time of product formation is reduced to a few minutes. Moreover, the resulting hydrogels have more uniform microscopic structure and are more swollen. The structure of the grafted hydrogel was examined meanwhile the hydrogel swelling in three environments of pure water, saltwater, and under pressure was measured. It was found that the grafted hydrogel has double swelling rate in the pure. Also, after loading the ciprofloxacin into the synthesized hydrogel, this drug is released 99% in initial 20 min. 0.1 g starch in 1.5 g acrylic hydrogel has the most drug release. The high swelling capacity in the pH ranges of 5–9 shows the extension of drug application in acidic or alkaline environments, and also after several using the gel and the capacity of water absorbency, which was about 70% of its initial water, indicates the perfect reusability capacity of the gel.
Poly(ether sulfone) hollow fiber membranes prepared via nonsolvent‐induced phase separation using the green solvent Agnique®AMD3 L
Authors: Uebele Sarah , Johann Kai S. , Goetz Tobias , Gronwald Oliver , Ulbricht Mathias , Schiestel Thomas
Published: May 2021

In recent years, the development of sustainable membrane manufacturing processes by the use of environmentally friendly solvents has become a considerable challenge. In this work, poly(ether sulfone) (PES) hollow fiber membranes were manufactured by the nonsolvent‐induced phase separation (NIPS) using the green solvent Agnique® AMD 3 L (N,N‐dimethyl lactamide; AMD) andN‐ethyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NEP) as a conventional solvent. The effect of the solvent on the dope solution and membrane properties was investigated. The morphology, mechanical characteristics, barrier pore sizes as well as gas and water permeances of the hollow fibers prepared with AMD were evaluated and compared to membranes that were similarly prepared using NEP as solvent. Membranes prepared with AMD as polymer solvent and NEP as bore liquid exhibit the largest barrier pore size among all variations. Thus, highest water permeance of 406.9 ± 37.4 kg m−2 h−1 bar−1was obtained with this combination. Whereas AMD as sole solvent in membrane preparation decreases membrane permeances caused by a denser membrane structure. Nevertheless, AMD is a promising solvent for a sustainable membrane fabrication providing membrane properties that are competitive with membranes manufactured using the conventional solvent NEP.
Behavioural plasticity and population connectivity: Contributors to the establishment of new pinniped breeding colonies
Authors: Chilvers B. Louise , Dobbins M. L. (Phred)
Published: May 2021

Understanding the ecological and evolutionary processes that occur during range shift or (re‐)colonization is of critical importance for species whose ranges are changing due to human‐induced climate change or species such as New Zealand sea lions where their established colonies are significantly declining due to human impacts.

The mechanisms underlying colonization are poorly understood. Observations are required to determine the processes that change individual's behaviour associated with colonization, but such observations are rare.

Here, the establishment of a new breeding colony of New Zealand sea lions, Phocarctos hookeri, as they recolonized mainland New Zealand, an area from which they had been absent for ~200 years was investigated.

There are differences in breeding location behaviour and population connectivity between established and establishing colonies of New Zealand sea lions. The recolonizing population is more dispersed with breeding locations that change annually and have more connections with other populations compared with established colonies and populations.

The establishment of a new colony and the greater numbers of resightings between colonies means that for species' management, considerably more public education, habitat management, and protection is needed to ensure the safe return of New Zealand sea lions back on to mainland New Zealand.
Aquatic areas of ecological importance as inputs into surface water resource protection areas in Zambia
Authors: Rivers‐Moore Nicholas A. , Paxton Bruce , Chivava Faith , Katiyo Loreen , Phiri Harris , Katongo Cyprian , Thieme Michele L. , Lehner Bernhard , Linke Simon
Published: May 2021

Although the network of national parks in Zambia offers a degree of protection for freshwater diversity, the protection status of numerous systems outside of these parks requires further action. The biodiversity associated with its freshwater systems, both lotic and lentic, is unique, covering a climatic gradient from tropical to subtropical across the Zambezi and Congo basins. Recent Zambian legislation allows for the delineation of water resource protection areas (WRPAs), with one of the criteria being that they include aquatic areas of ecological importance (AEIs).

In this study, a systematic conservation planning approach was used to identify aquatic AEIs objectively. Importantly, the approach included a rigorous and iterative stakeholder engagement and review process.

The conservation planning software marxan was chosen because of its ability to integrate upstream–downstream connectivity. In total, 5,671 planning units (sub‐catchments with an average area of approx. 14,000 ha) were populated with 77 biodiversity features: data were drawn from a wide range of sources, and included fishes, semi‐aquatic mammals, molluscs, amphibians, and ecotonal physiographic features, such as waterfalls. Sub‐catchments were preferentially chosen using a combination of area‐ and distance‐weighted boundary costs.

The final solution highlights critical clusters in each of the major freshwater ecoregions in Zambia, with all conservation targets being met. Results show that although the existing protected area network also coincides with identified aquatic AEIs, approximately 80% of all aquatic AEIs fall outside of formally protected areas.

The outcomes of this process serve as one of three prioritization layers (the other two being water provision and sensitivity to human impacts) that are integrated in a larger study to select and prioritize WRPAs.
A novel optimal control design for unknown nonlinear systems based on adaptive dynamic programming and nonlinear model predictive control
Authors: Hu Wei , Zhang Guoshan , Zheng Yuqing
Published: May 2021

This paper presents a novel adaptive optimal control algorithm by combining adaptive dynamic programming with nonlinear model predictive control for unknown continuous‐time affine nonlinear systems. The adaptive optimal control design is realized by the model‐critic‐actor architecture. Model neural network, critic neural network and actor neural network are constructed to approximate the system dynamics, the cost function and the optimal control law respectively. The random initialization of neural networks usually influences the control performance, so three neural networks are initialized properly to obtain the suitable initial values so that the control performance is improved. Especially, actor neural network is initialized to approximate the near‐optimal control law which is obtained from nonlinear model predictive control. The convergence of the proposed algorithm is proved by the Lyapunov theory. Finally, simulation results are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Distributed type‐2 fuzzy adaptive control for heterogeneous nonlinear multiagent systems
Authors: Qin Bo , Fan Yongqing , Xiao Tiantian , Li Zhen
Published: May 2021

A novel type‐2 fuzzy adaptive consensus control is studied for a class of heterogeneous multiagent systems with identical or nonidentical dimensions. At first, the similar composite structure for a class of heterogeneous multiagent systems with identical or nonidentical dimensions is introduced. Some similar parameters among each agent are defined that can be obtained by calculating the proposed similar properties. Second, according to the graph theory and Lyapunov stability, a novel distributed type‐2 fuzzy adaptive control with similar parameters is constructed for the consensus of nonlinear heterogeneous multiagents with different dimensions, in which all signals can converge to small zero fields. Finally, two simulation examples are addressed for the considered systems to show the effectiveness of the control scheme, and some merits of the control approach are also demonstrated by comparison of similar control.
Pyrido[3,4‐d]pyrimidine as an Acceptor of Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescent Emitters: Time‐dependent Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Jeon Hak Rim , Chung Ho Kyoon , Lee Jun Yeob , Cho Kwang‐Hwi
Published: May 2021

Pyrido[3,4‐d]pyrimidine (PyPm) was designed as a new acceptor of thermally activated delayed fluorescent (TADF) emitters and the potential of the new acceptor moiety for TADF properties was investigated. Time‐dependent density functional theory calculation was performed to estimate TADF characteristics by comparing five isomers of PyPm‐based TADF emitters. Geometries of the emitters were affected by the presence of hydrogen bonding depending on the substitution position of the phenyl linker in the donor‐phenyl linker‐acceptor type backbone structure, which also influenced the molecular orbital distributions. The nature of the triplet excited state was also dependent on the substitution position of the phenyl linker and donor moiety in the molecular structure, and the substitution at 5 position of the PyPm provided small singlet‐triplet energy gap and hybridized local and charge transfer triplet excited state for efficient reverse intersystem crossing. From the computational calculation results, it can be expected that PyPm would effectively work as an acceptor of TADF emitters.
Validation of the Finnish version of the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS) and evaluation of the applicability of the Multiple Sclerosis Neuropsychological Questionnaire (MSNQ) and the Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive Functions (FSMC)
Authors: Hämäläinen Päivi , Leo Vera , Therman Sebastian , Ruutiainen Juhani
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Cognitive impairment is frequent in multiple sclerosis (MS) as approximately half of the patients manifest some degree of cognitive impairment. The Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS) has been designed for brief cognitive evaluation. The purpose of the study was to validate the BICAMS along with the Finnish versions of one self‐rating questionnaire each for cognition and fatigue.

Methods

A total of 65 MS patients and 45 healthy controls (HC) were assessed with the BICAMS, the Multiple Sclerosis Neuropsychological Questionnaire (MSNQ), and the Fatigue Scale for Motor and Cognitive Functions (FSMC) twice, approximately within nine days.

Results

MS patients scored markedly lower than the HCs on each of the three tests of the BICAMS. Of the patients, 60% scored at least 1.5 SD below the mean of the HCs on at least one test; 49% on the SDMT, 26% on the CVLT‐II, and 28% on the BVMT‐R. Correlation coefficients for the repeated measurement were between 0.75 and 0.89 for the three tests in the whole study sample. MS patients reported more cognitive symptoms and more fatigue than the HCs. Cronbach's alpha was 0.94 for the MSNQ and 0.98 for the FSMC. Correlation coefficient for the repeated measurement was 0.91 for the MSNQ and between 0.92 and 0.94 for the FSMC scores for the whole study sample.

Conclusions

The present study supports the validity of the Finnish version of the BICAMS. The SDMT was the most sensitive of the three BICAMS tests and showed cognitive impairment in half of the patients. The Finnish versions of the MSNQ and the FSMC proved useful tools in approaching concerns related to cognition and fatigue.
The Delta Study – Prevalence and characteristics of mood disorders in 924 individuals with low mood: Results of the of the World Health Organization Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI)
Authors: Martin‐Key Nayra A. , Olmert Tony , Barton‐Owen Giles , Han Sung Yeon Sarah , Cooper Jason D. , Eljasz Pawel , Farrag Lynn P. , Friend Lauren V. , Bell Emily , Cowell Dan , Tomasik Jakub , Bahn Sabine
Published: May 2021

Objectives

The Delta Study was undertaken to improve the diagnosis of mood disorders in individuals presenting with low mood. The current study aimed to estimate the prevalence and explore the characteristics of mood disorders in participants of the Delta Study, and discuss their implications for clinical practice.

Methods

Individuals with low mood (Patients Health Questionnaire‐9 score ≥5) and either no previous mood disorder diagnosis (baseline low mood group, n = 429), a recent (≤5 years) clinical diagnosis of MDD (baseline MDD group, n = 441) or a previous clinical diagnosis of BD (established BD group, n = 54), were recruited online. Self‐reported demographic and clinical data were collected through an extensive online mental health questionnaire and mood disorder diagnoses were determined with the World Health Organization Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI).

Results

The prevalence of BD and MDD in the baseline low mood group was 24% and 36%, respectively. The prevalence of BD among individuals with a recent diagnosis of MDD was 31%. Participants with BD in both baseline low mood and baseline MDD groups were characterized by a younger age at onset of the first low mood episode, more severe depressive symptoms and lower wellbeing, relative to the MDD or low mood groups. Approximately half the individuals with BD diagnosed as MDD (49%) had experienced (hypo)manic symptoms prior to being diagnosed with MDD.

Conclusions

The current results confirm high under‐ and misdiagnosis rates of mood disorders in individuals presenting with low mood, potentially leading to worsening of symptoms and decreased well‐being, and indicate the need for improved mental health triage in primary care.
Crude probability of death for cancer patients by spread of disease in New South Wales, Australia 1985 to 2014
Authors: Yu Xue Qin , Dasgupta Paramita , Kahn Clare , Kou Kou , Cramb Susanna , Baade Peter
Published: May 2021

Background

To estimate trends in the crude probability of death for cancer patients by sex, age and spread of disease over the past 30 years in New South Wales, Australia.

Methods

Population‐based cohort of 716,501 people aged 15–89 years diagnosed with a first primary cancer during 1985–2014 were followed up to 31 December 2015. Flexible parametric relative survival models were used to estimate the age‐specific crude probability of dying from cancer and other causes by calendar year, sex and spread of disease for all solid tumours combined and cancers of the colorectum, lung, female breast, prostate and melanoma.

Results

Estimated 10‐year sex, age and spread‐specific crude probabilities of cancer death generally decreased over time for most cancer types, although the magnitude of the decrease varied. For example, out of 100 fifty‐year old men with localized prostate cancer, 12 would have died from their cancer if diagnosed in 1985 and 3 in 2014. Greater degree of spread was consistently associated with higher probability of dying from cancer, although outcomes for lung cancer were consistently poor. For both males and females, the probability of non‐cancer deaths was higher among older patients, those diagnosed with localized cancers and where cancer survival was higher.

Conclusion

Crude probabilities presented here may be useful in helping clinicians and their patients better understand prognoses and make informed decisions about treatment. They also provide novel insights into the relative contributions that early detection and improved treatments have on the observed temporal patterns in cancer survival.
Cardiac safety of trabectedin monotherapy or in combination with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin in patients with sarcomas and ovarian cancer
Authors: Jones Robin L. , Herzog Thomas J. , Patel Shreyaskumar R. , von Mehren Margaret , Schuetze Scott M. , Van Tine Brian A. , Coleman Robert L. , Knoblauch Roland , Triantos Spyros , Hu Peter , Shalaby Waleed , McGowan Tracy , Monk Bradley J. , Demetri George D.
Published: May 2021

Background

As with other alkylating agents, cardiac dysfunction can occur with trabectedin therapy for advanced soft tissue sarcomas (STS) or recurrent ovarian cancer (ROC) where treatment options for advanced disease are still limited. Cardiac safety for trabectedin monotherapy (T) for STS or in combination with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (T+PLD) for ROC was evaluated in this retrospective postmarketing regulatory commitment.

Methods

Patient data for multiple cardiac‐related treatment‐emergent adverse events (cTEAEs) were evaluated in pooled analyses of ten phase 2 trials, one phase 3 trial in STS (n = 982), and two phase 3 trials in ROC (n = 1231).

Results

Multivariate analyses on pooled trabectedin data revealed that cardiovascular medical history (risk ratio [RR (95% CI)]: 1.90 [1.24‐2.91]; p = 0.003) and age ≥65 years (RR [95% CI]: 1.78 [1.12‐2.83]; p = 0.014) were associated with increased risk for cTEAEs. Multivariate analyses showed increased risk of experiencing cTEAEs with T+PLD compared to PLD monotherapy (RR [95% CI]: 2.70 [1.75‐4.17]; p < 0.0001) and with history of prior cardiac medication (RR [95% CI]: 1.88 [1.16‐3.05]; p = 0.010).

Conclusions

For patients with STS or ROC who still have limited treatment options, trabectedin may be initiated after carefully considering benefit versus risk.

Trial Registration (ClinicalTrials.gov): NCT01343277; NCT00113607; NCT01846611.
Competing‐risks nomograms for predicting cause‐specific mortality in parotid‐gland carcinoma: A population‐based analysis
Authors: Xu Fengshuo , Feng Xiaojie , Zhao Fanfan , Huang Qiao , Han Didi , Li Chengzhuo , Zheng Shuai , Lyu Jun
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Parotid‐gland carcinoma (PGC) is a relatively rare tumor that comprises a group of heterogeneous histologic subtypes. We used the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program database to apply a competing‐risks analysis to PGC patients, and then established and validated predictive nomograms for PGC.

Methods

Specific screening criteria were applied to identify PGC patients and extract their clinical and other characteristics from the SEER database. We used the cumulative incidence function to estimate the cumulative incidence rates of PGC‐specific death (GCD) and other cause‐specific death (OCD), and tested for differences between groups using Gray's test. We then identified independent prognostic factors by applying the Fine–Gray proportional subdistribution hazard approach, and constructed predictive nomograms based on the results. Calibration curves and the concordance index (C‐index) were employed to validate the nomograms.

Results

We finally identified 4,075 eligible PGC patients who had been added to the SEER database from 2004 to 2015. Their 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year cumulative incidence rates of GCD were 10.1%, 21.6%, and 25.7%, respectively, while those of OCD were 2.9%, 6.6%, and 9.0%. Age, race, World Health Organization histologic risk classification, differentiation grade, American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) T stage, AJCC N stage, AJCC M stage, and RS (radiotherapy and surgery status) were independent predictors of GCD, while those of OCD were age, sex, marital status, AJCC T stage, AJCC M stage, and RS. These factors were integrated for constructing predictive nomograms. The results for calibration curves and the C‐index suggested that the nomograms were well calibrated and had good discrimination ability.

Conclusion

We have used the SEER database to establish—to the best of our knowledge—the first competing‐risks nomograms for predicting the 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year cause‐specific mortality in PGC. The nomograms showed relatively good performance and can be used in clinical practice to assist clinicians in individualized treatment decision‐making.