bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study of convective nanofluid flow over a rough slender cylinder under the influence of magnetic field and species diffusion
Authors: Patil Prabhugouda M. , Doddagoudar Shivanandappa H. , Hiremath Prakash S.
Published: September 2021

The present work explores the analysis of magnetohydrodynamics nonlinear mixed conv ective nanofluid flow over a vertical slender cylinder in the presence of surface roughness. The application of the present study can be found in the process of coating wires. In fact, during such a process, thin wires in the slender cylinder need to be cooled, and also heat and mass transfer rates need to be controlled through nanofluid and liquid hydrogen to yield better results. By employing nonsimilar transformations, the partial differential equations governing the flow problem are reduced to dimensionless equations. Furthermore, the Quasilinearization technique and implicit finite difference scheme are used to solve the dimensionless governing equations. The novelty of the analysis is the impacts of surface roughness, diffusion of liquid hydrogen, and the presence of nonlinear mixed convective flow over a slender cylinder. The numerical results reveal that the energy transport strength and surface drag coefficient enhance with the roughness parameter values. The nanoparticle volume fraction profile reduces, while nanoparticle Sherwood number enhances with increasing values of velocity ratio parameter. The presence of nanoparticles in the conventional fluid diminishes the energy transfer value significantly for both smooth and rough surfaces. The velocity of the fluid enhances with increasing values of the mixed convection parameter. Due to surface roughness ( ≠ 0), sinusoidal variations of the drag are observed along the length of the cylinder in comparison to smooth surface case ( = 0). The friction between the fluid and the wall rises for a rough surface because pockets of fluid are formed in the cavities due to surface asperities.
Nonlinear approximation for natural convection and mass transfer in a vertical channel
Authors: Jha Basant K. , Samaila Gabriel
Published: September 2021

This paper presents a nonlinear approximation for natural convection magnetohydrodynamics flow and mass transfer in a vertical passage filled with nanofluid with an induced magnetic field effect. The influence of the thermophoretic and Brownian motion diffusion is taken into account. The mathematical formulation comprises the significant impact of nonlinear density variation with temperature and concentration (NDTC) in the momentum equation. The uniform magnetic field is considered to be perpendicular to the vertical channel. The wall at y = 0 is considered to be nonconducting at constant heat flux whereas electrically conducting at a constant temperature at y = h. The analytic solution is achieved via the perturbation method for small thermophoretic and Brownian motion diffusion effects. The implications of the embedded parameters on the flow properties are demonstrated through graphs and tables. During the analysis, we discovered that under the influence of thermophoretic and Brownian motion diffusion, suction parameter augment decreases the mass transfer rate but the converse is true for Schmidt number. NDTC in the buoyancy term enhances the skin friction. The skin friction could be reduced by increasing the numerical values of Hartmann number, Prandtl number, magnetic Prandtl number, and suction parameter.
A single‐center, open‐label, randomized cross‐over study to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of once‐daily prolonged‐release formulations of tacrolimus in de novo liver transplant recipients
Authors: Herden Uta , Sterneck Martina , Buchholz Bettina M. , Achilles Eike G. , Ott Armin , Fischer Lutz
Published: September 2021

Background

The narrow therapeutic window of tacrolimus (Tac) requires intense drug monitoring to achieve adequate efficacy while minimizing dose‐related toxicities. Once‐daily formulations of Tac (LCP‐Tac and PR‐Tac) have been recently designed for higher bioavailability and a more consistent exposure over time, as opposed to the twice‐daily, administered immediate‐release formulation of Tac (IR‐Tac).

Methods

This single‐center, open‐label, randomized cross‐over pharmacokinetic (PK) study compares extended‐release LCP‐Tac with the prolonged‐release formulation of tacrolimus (PR‐Tac) in adult de novo liver transplant recipients. Eligible patients were screened and randomized 1:1 to the two treatment arms up to 30 days after liver transplantation. Patients were administered either LCP‐Tac or PR‐Tac for 14 days followed by another 14‐day time interval of the other once‐daily Tac medication. A 24hr‐PK profile was obtained at the end of each time interval.

Results

Nine patients (45%) completed the study resulting in a total of 18 Tac PK profiles. Overall, the profile of the mean concentrations indicated a flattened kinetic of LCP‐Tac compared to PR‐Tac, especially in the first 3 h after drug intake. The average cumulative dose per day to achieve equivalent trough levels was approximately 25% lower for LCP‐Tac (8.7 mg) than for PR‐Tac (11.7 mg). LCP‐Tac resulted in a longer tmax and fewer peak‐to‐trough fluctuations compared to PR‐Tac.

Conclusion

Despite methodological weaknesses that limit the conclusions, we have found a more consistent drug exposure for LCP‐Tac in de novo LT recipients. LCP‐Tac demonstrated a greater bioavailability compared to PR‐Tac.
Lycorine inhibits cell proliferation and induced oxidative stress‐mediated apoptosis via regulation of the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway in HT‐3 cells
Authors: Shang Hui , Jang Xuena , Shi Lingyun , Ma Yifei
Published: September 2021

Human cervical cancer is the fourth most common carcinoma in women in the world. The JAK/STAT3 signaling pathways crucially regulate cell growth and apoptosis. It is a significant target signaling pathway for the development of novel antitumor medicine. This study intended to explore whether lycorine could prevent HT‐3 proliferation and induce apoptosis by targeting the JAK/STAT3 signaling cascade. The HT‐3 cells were treated with various lycorine dosages and we analyzed cell growth, lipid peroxidation, antioxidants, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), DNA damage, apoptosis markers by different in vitro methodologies. Our results revealed that lycorine substantially reserved cell growth via decreased antioxidants, augmented reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation which leads to loss of ΔΨm, increased nuclear crumbling and chromatin condensation, thus resulting in representative increased apoptotic cell death. Furthermore, we analyzed that the molecular mechanical action of lycorine considerably repressed JAK1/STAT3 transactional activation and decrease its downstream molecules Bcl‐2, and enhances the expressional activity of Bax, cytochrome c, caspase 3 and 9 in HT‐3 cells. Finally, the fact that N‐acetylcysteine inhibits lycorine‐induced ROS‐mediated apoptosis was confirmed in HT‐3 cells. Thus, the results indicate that lycorine efficiently enhances apoptosis and inhibits HT‐3 cell proliferation. These outcomes collectively proposed that lycorine could be a beneficial chemotherapeutic agent for treating and managing human cervical carcinoma.
Spores morphology of the family Pteridaceae from Shandong Province, China
Authors: Li Xiao‐Juan , Xian‐Chun zhang , Jian‐Xiu li
Published: September 2021

In this article, we explored systematically the spore morphology of Pteridaceae by observation of the species distributed in Shandong Province using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that the spore morphology of all the species in the family is tetrahedral and trilete. The characters of spore ornamentation are intraspecies stable, but significantly different among species and genera. Spore morphology is significant in exploring the phylogenetic relationships of Pteridaceae as well as in generic and specific delimitations.
Finding a shortest even hole in polynomial time
Authors: Cheong Hou‐Teng , Lu Hsueh‐I
Published: September 2021

An even (respectively, odd) hole in a graph is an induced cycle with even (respectively, odd) length that is at least four. Bienstock proved that detecting an even (respectively, odd) hole containing a given vertex is NP‐complete. Conforti, Cornuéjols, Kapoor, and Vušković gave the first known polynomial‐time algorithm to determine whether a graph contains even holes. Chudnovsky, Kawarabayashi, and Seymour estimated that Conforti et al.'s algorithm runs in time on an ‐vertex graph and reduced the required time to . Subsequently, da Silva and Vušković, Chang and Lu, and Lai, Lu, and Thorup improved the time to , , and , respectively. The tractability of determining whether a graph contains odd holes has been open for decades until the algorithm of Chudnovsky, Scott, Seymour, and Spirkl that runs in time, which Lai et al. also reduced to . By extending Chudnovsky et al.'s techniques for detecting odd holes, Chudnovsky, Scott, and Seymour (respectively) ensured the tractability of finding a long (respectively, shortest) odd hole. They also ensured the NP‐hardness of finding a longest odd hole, whose reduction also works for finding a longest even hole. Recently, Cook and Seymour ensured the tractability of finding a long even hole. An intriguing missing piece is the tractability of finding a shortest even hole, left open for 16 years by, for example, Chudnovsky et al. and Johnson. We resolve this open problem by augmenting Chudnovsky et al.'s even‐hole detection algorithm into the first known polynomial‐time algorithm, running in time, for finding a shortest even hole in an ‐vertex graph that contains even holes.
Perfusion and PermeabilityMRIPredicts Future Cavernous Angioma Hemorrhage and Growth
Authors: Sone Je Yeong , Hobson Nicholas , Srinath Abhinav , Romanos Sharbel G. , Li Ying , Carrión‐Penagos Julián , Shkoukani Abdallah , Stadnik Agnieszka , Piedad Kristina , Lightle Rhonda , Moore Thomas , DeBiasse Dorothy , Bi Dehua , Shenkar Robert , Carroll Timothy , Ji Yuan , Girard Romuald , Awad Issam A.
Published: September 2021

Background

Cerebral cavernous angioma (CA) is a capillary vasculopathy affecting more than a million Americans with a small fraction of cases demonstrating lesional bleed or growth with major clinical sequelae. Perfusion and permeability are fundamental features of CA pathophysiology, but their role as prognostic biomarkers is unclear.

Purpose

To investigate whether perfusion or permeability lesional descriptors derived from dynamic contrast‐enhanced quantitative perfusion (DCEQP) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can predict subsequent lesional bleed/growth in the year following imaging.

Study Type

Single‐site case‐controlled study.

Subjects

Two hundred and five consecutively enrolled patients (63.4% female).

Field Strength/Sequence

Three‐Tesla/T1‐mapping with contrast‐enhanced dynamic two‐dimensional (2D) spoiled gradient recalled acquisition (SPGR) sequences.

Assessment

Prognostic associations with bleed/growth (present or absent) in the following year were assessed in 745 CA lesions evaluated by DCEQP in the 205 patients in relation to lesional descriptors calculated from permeability and perfusion maps. A subgroup of 30 cases also underwent peripheral blood collection at the time of DCEQP scans and assays of plasma levels of soluble CD14, IL‐1β, VEGF, and soluble ROBO4 proteins, whose weighted combination had been previously reported in association with future CA bleeding.

Statistical Tests

Mann–WhitneyU‐test for univariate analyses. Logistic regression models minimizing the Bayesian information criterion (BIC), testing sensitivity and specificity (receiver operating characteristic curves) of weighted combinations of parameters.

Results

The best prognostic biomarker for lesional bleed or growth included brainstem lesion location, mean lesional permeability, and low‐value perfusion cluster mean (BIC = 201.5, sensitivity = 77%, specificity = 72%,P < 0.05). Adding a previously published prognostic plasma protein biomarker improved the performance of the imaging model (sensitivity = 100%, specificity = 88%,P < 0.05).

Data Conclusion

A combination of MRI‐based descriptors reflecting higher lesional permeability and lower perfusion cluster may potentially predict future bleed/growth in CAs. The sensitivity and specificity of the prognostic imaging biomarker can be enhanced when combined with brainstem lesion location and a plasma protein biomarker of CA hemorrhage.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 5
Groove‐deepening trochleoplasty reduces lateral patellar maltracking and increases patellofemoral contact pressures: Dynamic simulation
Authors: Elias John J. , Rezvanifar Sayed C. , Koh Jason L.
Published: September 2021

Groove‐deepening trochleoplasty is performed to restore patellar stability by increasing the lateral constraint applied to the patella by the trochlear groove. Multibody dynamic simulation of knee function was used to characterize the influence of groove‐deepening trochleoplasty on patellar tracking and patellofemoral contact pressures. Computational models were created to represent seven knees with trochlear dysplasia, indicated by a flat trochlear groove and supratrochlear spur. The models were manipulated to remove the spur and deepen the trochlear groove to represent the average shape following a trochleoplasty. Knee squatting was simulated for the preoperative and postoperative conditions. Statistically significant (p < 0.05) differences in output parameters were identified with repeated measures comparisons at every 5° of knee flexion. Trochleoplasty significantly decreased lateral patellar tracking, particularly at low knee flexion angles. Trochleoplasty decreased the peak lateral shift of the patella (bisect offset index) with the knee extended from 0.87 ± 0.14 to 0.75 ± 0.12. Trochleoplasty also significantly decreased the contact area and increased the maximum contact pressure at multiple flexion angles. Trochleoplasty decreased the average contact area by approximately 10% in mid‐flexion, with a corresponding increase in the average maximum contact pressure of 13%–23%. Decreased contact area and increased contact pressures are related to altered patellofemoral congruity due to reshaping the femur without a corresponding change to the patella. Clinical significance: The results indicate groove‐deepening trochleoplasty decreases lateral patellar maltracking, reducing the risk of patellar dislocations, but can elevate patellofemoral contact pressures, which could contribute to long‐term degradation of cartilage.
Comparison of organic and deep eutectic solvents based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction for the analysis of phytosterols in cow milk combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography‐ultraviolet detector
Authors: Homaie Omid , Afshar Mogaddam Mohammad Reza , Tamizi Elnaz , Nemati Mahboob
Published: September 2021

In the present work, a dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction approach has been developed for extraction of four phytosterols (stigmasterol, β‐sitosterol, campesterol, and brassicasterol) from cow milk samples using organic and deep eutectic solvents and the results were critically compared. The extracted analytes were determined using high performance liquid chromatography. In the developed method, carbon tetrachloride and choline chloride:p‐chlorophenol deep eutectic solvent were selected to use as the best extraction solvent. Effective parameters and validation data were studied for both methods, independently. Under optimum conditions, limits of detection and quantification were within the ranges of 0.3–0.9 and 1.0–3.0 ng/mL for organic solvent based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction and 0.09–0.32 and 0.3–1.0 ng/mL for deep eutectic solvent based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction, respectively. Good coefficient of determinations and relative standard deviations obtained for the methods were ≥0.994 and ≤7.6%, respectively. The introduced method was performed on different milk samples for the determination of target analytes using both solvents and the results were analyzed statistically by the t‐test.
An effectively closed set with no join property*
Authors: Çevik Ahmet
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we establish a relationship between the join property and Turing degrees of members of effectively closed sets in Cantor space, i.e., classes. We first give a proof of the observation that there exists a non‐empty special class in which no join of two members computes the halting set. We then prove the existence of a non‐empty special class such that no member satisfies the join property, where a degree satisfies the join property if for all non‐zero there exists such that .
Effect of in situ fibrillation on polyethylene/poly(ethylene terephthalate)/multiwalled carbon nanotube electromagnetic shielding foams
Authors: Song Renda , Wu Gaojian , Xu Yuxuan , Chen Junxiang , Zhang Youchen , Weimin Yang , Xie Pengcheng
Published: September 2021

In this study, polyethylene (PP)/polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) nanocomposites with nanofibrillary structure were processed by hot drawing‐assisted extrusion technology, and nonfoaming and microfoaming samples were processed by injection molding machine. Scanning electron microscope micrographs showed that when PET content was 2.5 wt%, PET fibers had a larger aspect ratio, which brought an outstanding promotion on microfoaming of PP matrix, and further details were provided by DSC and rheology analysis. When foaming sample loaded with 2.5 wt% PET and 3 wt% MWCNT, the best shielding effectiveness achieved 29.91 dB·cm3·g−1 in the test frequency range about 8.2–12.4 GHz. The results proved that the introduction of PET fibers optimized the microfoaming effect, and the uniform cell structure promoted the MWCNT dispersion and internal reflection of electromagnetic wave. Therefore, the shielding property is absorption‐dominated type and meets the requirements of lightweight and ultraefficient shielding demand of industry.
Identification of the Degradation Products from α‐Ionone Used as Stabiliser in “Green” Propellants through its Lifetime
Authors: Damseaux Caroline , Scholl Georges , Damblon Christian , Dejeaifve Alain , Dobson Rowan , Ma Xiaofeng , Marko Istvan , Monbaliu Jean‐Christophe M. , De Pauw Edwin , Eppe Gauthier
Published: September 2021

A stabiliser is added to gun and rocket propellants to react with species responsible for degradation during decomposition. Propellant powder manufacturers and army personnel are confronted with toxicity during powder degradation and must replace current stabilisers with non‐toxic molecules. According to the STANAG 4582 (North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Standardisation Agreement [1]), propellant powders must remain chemically stable for a minimum of ten years when stored at temperatures equivalent to an isothermal storage (25 °C). Single and double base smokeless powders with α‐ionone as a “green” stabiliser are tested and the results show that the heat flow is stable over time and that the autocatalysis occurs 2 to 3 times later than in powders with conventional stabilisers. This stabiliser is efficient for all nitrate ester‐based propellants. In the present paper, we identify and monitor the evolution of the main degradation products over time by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), mass spectrometry (MS) to unravel the stabilisation mechanism under accelerated aging conditions. A time‐related fluctuation of their respective amounts (increasing then decreasing, then re‐increasing, …) is observed, which indicates that the daughter products have also a stabilisation effect. The three major α‐ionone daughter products are identified as: 3‐oxo‐α‐ionone, 4‐oxo‐β‐ionone and 4,5‐epoxy‐α‐ionone.
Determination of Diphenyl Amine (DPA) Stabilizer in Propellants – A Minireview
Authors: Hande Pankaj E. , Baran Samui Asit
Published: September 2021

There is concern about the aged propellants as the proportion of stabilizer, diphenyl amine (DPA), keeps on reducing while maintaining the propellant formulation safe. This is a very important issue as it keeps the propellant as well as the surrounding safe from any possible mishap. Therefore, the determination of residual DPA/DPA derivatives in the propellant is of utmost importance. Various attempts have been made to determine residual DPA/derivatives content in the propellant. In this review the detection methods have been compiled and analysed for their implications, detection limit and standard deviation. The methods attempted for detection comprise volumetric, chromatographic, electroanalytical, spectroscopic and thermoanalytical techniques. The volumetric method was tried in the initial attempts by adopting chemical reactions. Chromatographic methods were reported by adopting different procedures and variations. These have been discussed in details. Electroanalytical methods have become one of the important techniques to determine the residual DPA that has been discussed in detail with incorporation of various modifications. Spectroscopic methods were also deployed to determine the DPA content in the propellant. The methods, being very straight forward and clean, have been considered effective in determination. Differential scanning calorimetry has also been tried for finding the DPA content in the propellant sample by adopting different combinations, which is also incorporated for discussion in this paper.
Engineering Dissipation with Resistive Elements in Circuit Quantum Electrodynamics
Authors: Cattaneo Marco , Paraoanu Gheorghe Sorin
Published: September 2021

The importance of dissipation engineering ranges from universal quantum computation to non‐equilibrium quantum thermodynamics. In recent years, more and more theoretical and experimental studies have shown the relevance of this topic for circuit quantum electrodynamics, one of the major platforms in the race for a quantum computer. This article discusses how to simulate thermal baths by inserting resistive elements in networks of superconducting qubits. Apart from pedagogically reviewing the phenomenological and microscopic models of a resistor as thermal bath with Johnson–Nyquist noise, the paper introduces some new results in the weak coupling limit, showing that the most common examples of open quantum systems can be simulated through capacitively coupled superconducting qubits and resistors. The aim of the manuscript, written with a broad audience in mind, is to be both an instructive tutorial about how to derive and characterize the Hamiltonian of general dissipative superconducting circuits with capacitive coupling, and a review of the most relevant and topical theoretical and experimental works focused on resistive elements and dissipation engineering.
Recent Progress on 2D Kagome Magnets: Binary TmSnn (T = Fe, Co, Mn)
Authors: Zhang Hongrun , Feng Haifeng , Xu Xun , Hao Weichang , Du Yi
Published: September 2021

Due to the particularity of the lattice geometry, intriguing electronic characteristics of Dirac cone and flat band can coexist in the two‐dimensional (2D) kagome lattice. The 2D kagome materials, therefore, have attracted tremendous attention, as a platform for studying the topological non‐trivial band structures and strong correlated phenomena. In this paper, the recent experimental progress on binary kagome metals Fe3Sn2, FeSn, CoSn, and Mn3Sn, mainly by the methods of scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS), and angle‐resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES), are reviewed. In those compounds, the kagome layers give rise to the electronic structure of flat bands and Dirac cones, which induce a wide range of novel electron behaviors. Their exposed surface structure, electronic band structure, and topological properties are therefore highlighted, aiming at illustrating the determining role of their 2D kagome layers. In addition, the interplay between frustrated kagome geometry, frustrated magnetism, and topological magnetism, which brings new opportunities and broad prospects to the research of strongly correlated topological kagome magnetic materials, is introduced through reviewing recent experimental works by electronic and magnetic transport measurements.
Stubborn state estimation for nonlinear distributed parameter systems subject to measurement outliers
Authors: Sun Jie , Shen Bo , Qi Jie , Liu Yufei
Published: September 2021

In this article, the state estimation problem is investigated for a class of distributed parameter systems (DPSs). In order to estimate the state of DPSs, we give a partition of spatial interval with a finite sequence and, on each subinterval, one sensor is placed to receive the measurements from the DPS. Due to the unexpected environment changes, the measurements will probably contain some outliers. To eliminate the effects of the possibly occurring outliers, we construct a stubborn state estimator where the innovation is constrained by a saturation function. By using Lyapunov functional, Wirtinger inequality and piecewise integration, some sufficient conditions are obtained under which the resulting estimation error system is exponentially stable and the performance requirement is satisfied. According to the obtained analysis results, the desired state estimator is designed in terms of the solution to a set of matrix inequalities. Finally, a numerical simulation example is given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed state estimation scheme.
Status and Challenges of Cathode Materials for Room‐Temperature Sodium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Wu Ying , Wu Liang , Wu Shufan , Yao Yu , Feng Yuezhan , Yu Yan
Published: September 2021

Room‐temperature sodium–sulfur (RT Na–S) batteries have become the most potential large‐scale energy storage systems due to the high theoretical energy density and low cost. However, the severe shuttle effect and the sluggish redox kinetics arising from the sulfur cathode cause enormous challenges for the development of RT Na–S batteries. This review systematically sheds light on the rational design strategies of integrating porous carbon matrix with “adsorption–catalysis” agents, including transition‐metal single‐atom, transition‐metal nanoclusters, transition‐metal compounds, or heterostructures. Moreover, the multistep reaction mechanism accompanied with the evolution process of various sodium polysulfides during the redox process is systematically summarized on the basis of electrochemical technique analysis and ex situ/in situ characterization. Finally, the future perspectives and potential research directions are outlined to provide a guideline for the continuous development of RT Na–S batteries.
Strategies for Optimizing the Photocatalytic Water‐Splitting Performance of Metal–Organic Framework‐Based Materials
Authors: Zhang Kailai , Hu Haijun , Shi Litong , Jia Baohua , Huang Hongwei , Han Xiaopeng , Sun Xiaodong , Ma Tianyi
Published: September 2021

Semiconductor photocatalytic hydrogen production technology is a pollution‐free and low‐cost technology, which is principal to alleviate the energy crisis. The metal–organic frameworks (MOFs)‐based materials have been widely used in this field because of their regular and controllable pore structure and high specific surface area. Accordingly, the recent progress of MOFs‐based materials in the production of hydrogen through water splitting is reviewed. First, the mechanism of photocatalytic hydrogen production and the existing problems are proposed and then their advantages in photocatalytic hydrogen production and various photocatalytic hydrogen production catalysts based on MOFs are summarized. Subsequently, several methods to improve their photocatalytic hydrogen production property are summarized. Finally, some views on the prospects and challenges of the use of MOFs‐based catalysts for photocatalytic hydrolysis are expounded. Although some reviews associated with MOFs for solar‐driven H2 production have been published, most of them focus on the classification of MOFs photocatalysts. This is the first comprehensive review concentrating on the strategies for optimizing the photocatalytic activity of MOFs‐based materials for H2 production. It is believed that the suggestions provided here can help to study MOFs‐based photocatalytic reactions and to further promote the development of this research direction in the future.
Toward Commercialization of Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Modules
Authors: Yang Chenquan , Zhi Rui , Rothmann Mathias Uller , Huang Fuzhi , Cheng Yi-Bing , Li Wei
Published: September 2021

The commercialization of perovskite photovoltaic technology is dependent on the development of high‐efficiency, stable, and large‐area solar modules. Despite the rapid rise in efficiencies of laboratory‐scale perovskite solar cells (PSCs), there is still a big gap in the transition from small‐area devices to large‐area perovskite solar modules (PSMs). Herein, recent progresses on scaling‐up PSMs are reviewed: first, multifarious scalable preparation methods, solvent engineering, and corresponding morphology control strategies for large‐area homogeneous perovskite films are summarized. Various charge carrier transport materials, electrode materials, and their scaling methods for high‐efficiency and stable PSMs are then outlined and the device structure design of PSMs is discussed. Finally, the current strategies for optimizing the environmental stability of devices are highlighted, and packaging for reducing lead leakage during operation is discussed.
(FA0.83MA0.17)0.95Cs0.05Pb(I0.83Br0.17)3 Perovskite Films Prepared by Solvent Volatilization for High‐Efficiency Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Qiqi , Conkle Keonna , Ahmad Zachary , Ray Paresh Chandra , Kołodziejczyk Wojciech , Hill Glake Alton , Gu Xiaodan , Dai Qilin
Published: September 2021

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted significant research efforts due to their remarkable performance. However, most perovskite films are prepared by the antisolvent method which is not suitable for practical applications. Herein, a (FA0.83MA0.17)0.95Cs0.05Pb(I0.83Br0.17)3 (CsFAMA) perovskite film fabrication technique is developed using solvent volatilization without any antisolvents. The films are formed through recrystallization via the intermediate phase CsMAFAPbI
x
Cl
y
Br
z
during annealing, leading to high‐quality perovskite films. The perovskite growth mechanism is investigated in terms of controlling the amount of formamidinium iodide and methylammonium chloride in the precursor solutions. The oriental growth of the films via the intermediate phase is confirmed by the grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering measurements. The photovoltaic properties of the perovskite films are investigated. The PSCs based on the films fabricated using the method exhibit a high efficiency of 20.6%. The method developed in this work is based on solvent volatilization, which exhibits significant potential in high reproducibility, facile operation, and large‐scale production.
Early Cretaceous enigmatic insect group showing unique wing venations and antennal sensilla
Authors: Yang Hongru , Shih Chungkun , Rasnitsyn Alexandr P. , Ren Dong , Gao Taiping
Published: September 2021

A new extinct insect group, Magicivena gen. nov. in Magicivenidae fam. nov., with M. sticta sp. nov. (type species), M. elegans sp. nov., M. antennalis sp. nov. and M. sp., is reported as Insecta incertae ordinis based on four specimens from the Lower Cretaceous Yixian Formation of north‐eastern China. Magicivenidae are characterized by special antennal structures, such as each flagellomere having two lateral transverse rows of setiferous pits, and forewing venations such as a very short subcostal anterior (Sc), the radial posterior (RS) apparently lost, a weak cubital posterior (CuP), and a single cross‐vein crossing the CuP and joining the cubital anterior (CuA) to the first anal vein, all of which differ from those of any other fossil or extant insect taxa documented hitherto. According to the characters forewing with multibranched CuA, hind wing with several long anal veins, and segmented cerci, Magicivenidae should belong to Polyneoptera. The light constitution of a good flier, similar structure of the pterostigma in the hind wing, and transverse furrow on the pronotum all suggest the parallel evolution of Magicivenidae and a dictyopterid family, Alienopteridae. However, the advanced bimotory and loss of an identifiable RS make the possible affinity of Magicivenidae with Alienopteridae problematic, as the latter possess utmost posteromotory and a distinct RS. The antennae of Magicivenidae with their sophisticated sensory apparatus suggest that the four known specimens of Magicivena described here are all males; females are still to be discovered. This new finding enriches the known diversity of Cretaceous insect groups.
Clostridial infections: diagnosis and management
Authors: Brightman Christopher
Published: September 2021

Clostridia are found in the environment and some are part of the normal flora of the human gut. Some of these organisms cause disease in humans, including Clostridium botulinum, which produces the most toxic substance known.
Using the critical incident technique to determine veterinary professional competencies important for enhancing the veterinarian‐client interaction
Authors: Gordon Stuart J. G. , Gardner Dianne H. , Weston Jenny F. , Bolwell Charlotte , Benschop Jackie , Parkinson Tim J.
Published: September 2021

Background

While previous research has examined components of professionalism that veterinary employers and clients expect in veterinarians, little attention has been paid to practising clinical veterinarians’ opinions on important professional competencies that help to enhance the veterinarian‐client relationship. This study used a phenomenological approach and critical incident technique to gather the narratives of practising veterinarians in New Zealand about positive and negative veterinarian‐client interactions. The intention was to identify the underlying principles of professionalism that resulted in the positive/negative outcomes of those interactions.

Methods

Twenty‐two practising veterinarians were interviewed, and each respondent was asked to recollect and narrate a significant positive and a significant negative critical incident in their career that involved a veterinarian‐client interaction within a clinical setting. The professional competencies that the veterinarian believed contributed to a successful or an unsuccessful outcome were elucidated using thematic analysis.

Results

Thematic analysis of the critical incident narratives revealed four major themes under the overarching theme of ‘building a relationship between the veterinarian and the client’: ‘accountability and integrity’, ‘effective communication skills’, ‘personal wellbeing’ and ‘quality of care’.

Conclusion

The description of the important professional competencies that helped to enhance the veterinarian‐client relationship provides a reference for the practising profession to help improve the likelihood of veterinarians enjoying satisfied and successful careers.
Absence of MMF1 disrupts heme biosynthesis by targeting Hem1pin Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Whitaker Gregory H. , Ernst Dustin C. , Downs Diana M.
Published: September 2021

The RidA subfamily of the Rid (YjgF/YER057c/UK114) superfamily of proteins is broadly distributed and found in all domains of life. RidA proteins are enamine/imine deaminases. In the organisms that have been investigated, lack of RidA results in accumulation of the reactive enamine species 2‐aminoacrylate (2AA) and/or its derivative imine 2‐iminopropanoate (2IP). The accumulated enamine/imine species can damage specific pyridoxal phosphate (PLP)‐dependent target enzymes. The metabolic imbalance resulting from the damaged enzymes is organism specific and based on metabolic network configuration. Saccharomyces cerevisiae encodes two RidA homologs, one localized to the cytosol and one to the mitochondria. The mitochondrial RidA homolog, Mmf1p, prevents enamine/imine stress and is important for normal growth and maintenance of mitochondrial DNA. Here, we show that Mmf1p is necessary for optimal heme biosynthesis. Biochemical and/or genetic data herein support a model in which accumulation of 2AA and or 2IP, in the absence of Mmf1p, inactivates Hem1p, a mitochondrially located PLP‐dependent enzyme required for heme biosynthesis.
An analogue of a theorem of Steinitz for ball polyhedra in $$\mathbb {R}^3$$
Authors: Almohammad Sami Mezal , Lángi Zsolt , Naszódi Márton
Published: September 2021

Steinitz’s theorem states that a graph G is the edge-graph of a 3-dimensional convex polyhedron if and only if, G is simple, plane and 3-connected. We prove an analogue of this theorem for ball polyhedra, that is, for intersections of finitely many unit balls in $$\mathbb {R}^3$$

R

3

.
IAPP-induced beta cell stress recapitulates the islet transcriptome in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Blencowe Montgomery , Furterer Allison , Wang Qing , Gao Fuying , Rosenberger Madeline , Pei Lina , Nomoto Hiroshi , Mawla Alex M. , Huising Mark O. , Coppola Giovanni , Yang Xia , Butler Peter C. , Gurlo Tatyana
Published: September 2021

Aims/hypothesis

Type 2 diabetes is characterised by islet amyloid and toxic oligomers of islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP). We posed the questions, (1) does IAPP toxicity induce an islet response comparable to that in humans with type 2 diabetes, and if so, (2) what are the key transcriptional drivers of this response?

Methods

The islet transcriptome was evaluated in five groups of mice: beta cell specific transgenic for (1) human IAPP, (2) rodent IAPP, (3) human calpastatin, (4) human calpastatin and human IAPP, and (5) wild-type mice. RNA sequencing data was analysed by differential expression analysis and gene co-expression network analysis to establish the islet response to adaptation to an increased beta cell workload of soluble rodent IAPP, the islet response to increased expression of oligomeric human IAPP, and the extent to which the latter was rescued by suppression of calpain hyperactivation by calpastatin. Rank-rank hypergeometric overlap analysis was used to compare the transcriptome of islets from human or rodent IAPP transgenic mice vs humans with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.

Results

The islet transcriptomes in humans with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes are remarkably similar. Beta cell overexpression of soluble rodent or oligomer-prone human IAPP induced changes in islet transcriptome present in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, including decreased expression of genes that confer beta cell identity. Increased expression of human IAPP, but not rodent IAPP, induced islet inflammation present in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes in humans. Key mediators of the injury responses in islets transgenic for human IAPP or those from individuals with type 2 diabetes include STAT3, NF-κB, ESR1 and CTNNB1 by transcription factor analysis and COL3A1, NID1 and ZNF800 by gene regulatory network analysis.

Conclusions/interpretation

Beta cell injury mediated by IAPP is a plausible mechanism to contribute to islet inflammation and dedifferentiation in type 2 diabetes. Inhibition of IAPP toxicity is a potential therapeutic target in type 2 diabetes.

Graphical abstract
The codification of hazard and its impact on the hazard versus risk controversy
Authors: Doe John E. , Boobis Alan R. , Cohen Samuel M. , Dellarco Vicki L. , Fenner-Crisp Penelope A. , Moretto Angelo , Pastoor Timothy P. , Schoeny Rita S. , Seed Jennifer G. , Wolf Douglas C.
Published: September 2021

The long running controversy about the relative merits of hazard-based versus risk-based approaches has been investigated. There are three levels of hazard codification: level 1 divides chemicals into dichotomous bands of hazardous and non-hazardous; level 2 divides chemicals into bands of hazard based on severity and/or potency; and level 3 places each chemical on a continuum of hazard based on severity and/or potency. Any system which imposes compartments onto a continuum will give rise to issues at the boundaries, especially with only two compartments. Level 1 schemes are only justifiable if there is no variation in severity, or potency or if there is no threshold. This is the assumption implicit in GHS/EU classification for carcinogenicity, reproductive toxicity and mutagenicity. However, this assumption has been challenged. Codification level 2 hazard assessments offer a range of choices and reduce the built-in conflict inherent in the level 1 process. Level 3 assessments allow a full range of choices between the extremes and reduce the built-in conflict even more. The underlying reason for the controversy between hazard and risk is the use of level 1 hazard codification schemes in situations where there are ranges of severity and potency which require the use of level 2 or level 3 hazard codification. There is not a major difference between level 2 and level 3 codification, and they can both be used to select appropriate risk management options. Existing level 1 codification schemes should be reviewed and developed into level 2 schemes where appropriate.
Every infinitely edge-connected graph contains the Farey graph or $${T_{\aleph _0}*t}$$ as a minor
Authors: Kurkofka Jan
Published: September 2021

We show that every infinitely edge-connected graph contains the Farey graph or $$T_{\aleph _0}*t$$

T

ℵ
0

∗
t

as a minor. These two graphs are unique with this property up to minor-equivalence.
Effects of perinatal fluoxetine exposure on novelty-induced social and non-social investigation behaviors in a seminatural environment
Authors: Sylte Ole Christian , Johansen Jesper Solheim , Heinla Indrek , Houwing Danielle J. , Olivier Jocelien D. A. , Heijkoop Roy , Snoeren Eelke M. S.
Published: September 2021

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are increasingly prescribed as medication for various affective disorders during pregnancy. SSRIs cross the placenta and affect serotonergic neurotransmission in the fetus, but the neurobehavioral consequences for the offspring remain largely unclear. Recent rodent research has linked perinatal SSRI exposure to alterations in both social and non-social aspects of behavior. However, this research has mainly focused on behavior within simplified environments. The current study investigates the effects of perinatal SSRI exposure on social and non-social investigation behaviors of adult rat offspring upon introduction to a novel seminatural environment with unknown conspecifics. During the perinatal period (gestational day 1 until postnatal day 21), rat dams received daily treatment with either an SSRI (fluoxetine, 10 mg/kg) or vehicle. Adult male and female offspring were observed within the first hour after introduction to a seminatural environment. The results showed that perinatal fluoxetine exposure altered aspects of non-social investigation behaviors, while not altering social investigation behaviors. More specifically, both fluoxetine-exposed males and females spent more total time on locomotor activity than controls. Furthermore, fluoxetine-exposed females spent less time exploring objects and specific elements in the environment. The data suggest that perinatal exposure to SSRIs leads to a quicker, less detailed investigation strategy in novel environments and that the alteration is mostly pronounced in females.
PET/CT imaging of head-and-neck and pancreatic cancer in humans by targeting the “Cancer Integrin” αvβ6 with Ga-68-Trivehexin
Authors: Quigley Neil Gerard , Steiger Katja , Hoberück Sebastian , Czech Norbert , Zierke Maximilian Alexander , Kossatz Susanne , Pretze Marc , Richter Frauke , Weichert Wilko , Pox Christian , Kotzerke Jörg , Notni Johannes
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To develop a new probe for the αvβ6-integrin and assess its potential for PET imaging of carcinomas.

Methods

Ga-68-Trivehexin was synthesized by trimerization of the optimized αvβ6-integrin selective cyclic nonapeptide Tyr2 (sequence: c[YRGDLAYp(NMe)K]) on the TRAP chelator core, followed by automated labeling with Ga-68. The tracer was characterized by ELISA for activities towards integrin subtypes αvβ6, αvβ8, αvβ3, and α5β1, as well as by cell binding assays on H2009 (αvβ6-positive) and MDA-MB-231 (αvβ6-negative) cells. SCID-mice bearing subcutaneous xenografts of the same cell lines were used for dynamic (90 min) and static (75 min p.i.) µPET imaging, as well as for biodistribution (90 min p.i.). Structure–activity-relationships were established by comparison with the predecessor compound Ga-68-TRAP(AvB6)3. Ga-68-Trivehexin was tested for in-human PET/CT imaging of HNSCC, parotideal adenocarcinoma, and metastatic PDAC.

Results

Ga-68-Trivehexin showed a high αvβ6-integrin affinity (IC50 = 0.047 nM), selectivity over other subtypes (IC50-based factors: αvβ8, 131; αvβ3, 57; α5β1, 468), blockable uptake in H2009 cells, and negligible uptake in MDA-MB-231 cells. Biodistribution and preclinical PET imaging confirmed a high target-specific uptake in tumor and a low non-specific uptake in other organs and tissues except the excretory organs (kidneys and urinary bladder). Preclinical PET corresponded well to in-human results, showing high and persistent uptake in metastatic PDAC and HNSCC (SUVmax = 10–13) as well as in kidneys/urine. Ga-68-Trivehexin enabled PET/CT imaging of small PDAC metastases and showed high uptake in HNSCC but not in tumor-associated inflammation.

Conclusions

Ga-68-Trivehexin is a valuable probe for imaging of αvβ6-integrin expression in human cancers.
Surgical Services for Breast Cancer Patients in Australia, is There a Gap for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Women?
Authors: de Jager Elzerie , Gunnarsson Ronny , Ho Yik‐Hong
Published: September 2021

Background

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women. When compared to other Australians, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women have a higher breast cancer mortality rate. This systematic literature review examined disparities in breast cancer surgical access and outcomes for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women.

Methods

This systematic literature review, following the PRISMA guidelines, compared measures of breast cancer surgical care for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians.

Results

The 13 included studies were largely state‐based retrospective reviews of data collected prior to the year 2012. Eight studies reported more advanced breast cancer presentation among Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women. Despite the increased distance to a multidisciplinary, specialist team, there were no disparities in seeing a surgeon, or in the time from diagnosis to surgical treatment. Two studies reported disparities in the receipt of surgery and two reported no variations. Three studies reported disparities in the receipt of mastectomy versus breast conserving surgery, whilst four studies reported no variations. No studies examined postoperative surgical outcomes.

Conclusions

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women present with more advanced breast cancer. There may be disparities in the receipt of surgery and the type of surgery. However, the metrics tested were not related to optimal care guidelines, and the databases utilised contain limited data on individual factors contributing to surgical care decisions. It is therefore difficult to determine whether the reported differences in the receipt of surgical care reflect disparate or appropriate care.