bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bio‐based glycerol plasticizers for flexible poly(vinyl chloride) blends
Authors: Halloran Matthew W. , Nicell Jim A. , Leask Richard L. , Marić Milan
Published: June 2022

A series of glycerol‐based compounds were investigated for their application as plasticizers for flexible poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) blends. The effect of plasticizer chemical structure on the performance, migration behavior, and blend morphology were evaluated and compared to blends produced using the commercial plasticizer dioctyl terephthalate (DOTP). Blends containing 40 phr (parts per hundred rubber) of glycerol‐based plasticizer showed a considerable reduction (between 54 to 86°C) in glass transition temperature (Tg) relative to neat PVC (Tg ~ 80°C). Tensile testing of samples prepared with the glycerol analogs demonstrated higher ductility (elongation at break values of up to 97%) than DOTP (elongation at break value of 75%) at identical plasticizer loadings. The surface morphologies showed excellent incorporation of the glycerol plasticizers functionalized with alkyl chains longer than four carbons in length into the PVC matrix, whereas droplet formation was observed in blends with shorter chain glycerol derivatives. Leaching behavior of the plasticized samples were evaluated into different media and showed that plasticizers comprised of branched, or longer alkyl chains produced 2‐ to 4‐fold lower migration rates compared to those with shorter alkyl chains into polar solutions.
A polysulfide radical anions scavenging binder achieves long‐life lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Wang Chengdong , Ma Yue , Du Xiaofan , Zhang Huanrui , Xu Gaojie , Cui Guanglei
Published: June 2022

Fast capacity decay caused by the polysulfide shuttle is the primary cause to impede the practical application of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries. The polysulfide shuttle involves the evolution of polysulfide dianions (Li2Sx, x = 3–8) and radical anions (Sn•–) during the charge‐discharge process. Despite good efforts have been made to suppress polysulfide shuttle, the electrolyte depletion caused by the attack of polysulfide radical anions, which results in rapid battery aging, has been almost ignored. To address this challenge, based on a two‐prolonged design philosophy, we demonstrate a polylysine‐derived cathode binder with a free radical‐scavenging function, lipoic acid‐grafted ε‐polylysine (EPL‐g‐Lipo), where abundant amide and amine groups in the ε‐polylysine component possess a high polysulfide affinity, while lipoic acid motifs offer an excellent polysulfide radical anions‐scavenging ability. As a result, Li–S batteries with EPL‐g‐Lipo binder display superior cycling stability to poly(vinylpyrrolidone) binder‐based counterparts, mainly ascribed to its powerful shuttle suppression effect and free radicals scavenging ability. This study states the importance of designing multifunctional binders for performance improvements of Li–S batteries.
Gene amplification‐driven RNA methyltransferase KIAA1429 promotes tumorigenesis by regulating BTG2 via m6A‐YTHDF2‐dependent in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Chang , Sun Qi , Zhang Xu , Qin Na , Pu Zhening , Gu Yayun , Yan Caiwang , Zhu Meng , Dai Juncheng , Wang Cheng , Li Ni , Jin Guangfu , Ma Hongxia , Hu Zhibin , Zhang Erbao , Tan Fengwei , Shen Hongbing
Published: June 2022

Background

Epigenetic alterations have been shown to contribute immensely to human carcinogenesis. Dynamic and reversible N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification regulates gene expression and cell fate. However, the reasons for activation of KIAA1429 (also known as VIRMA, an RNA methyltransferase) and its underlying mechanism in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remain largely unexplored. In this study, we aimed to clarify the oncogenic role of KIAA1429 in the tumorigenesis of LUAD.

Methods

Whole‐genome sequencing and transcriptome sequencing of LUAD data were used to analyze the gene amplification of RNA methyltransferase. The in vitro and in vivo functions of KIAA1429 were investigated. Transcriptome sequencing, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP‐seq), m6A dot blot assays and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) were performed to confirm the modified gene mediated by KIAA1429. RNA stability assays were used to detect the half‐life of the target gene.

Results

Copy number amplification drove higher expression of KIAA1429 in LUAD, which was correlated with poor overall survival. Manipulating the expression of KIAA1429 could regulate the proliferation and metastasis of LUAD. Mechanistically, the target genes of KIAA1429‐mediated m6A modification were confirmed by transcriptome sequencing and MeRIP‐seq assays. We also revealed that KIAA1429 could regulate BTG2 expression in an m6A‐dependent manner. Knockdown of KIAA1429 significantly decreased the m6A levels of BTG2 mRNA, leading to enhanced YTH m6A RNA binding protein 2 (YTHDF2, the m6A “reader”)‐dependent BTG2 mRNA stability and promoted the expression of BTG2; thus, participating in the tumorigenesis of LUAD.

Conclusions

Our data revealed the activation mechanism and important role of KIAA1429 in LUAD tumorigenesis, which may provide a novel view on the targeted molecular therapy of LUAD.
Genetic risk, metabolic syndrome, and gastrointestinal cancer risk: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Liu Yaqian , Yan Caiwang , Yin Shuangshuang , Wang Tianpei , Zhu Meng , Liu Li , Jin Guangfu
Published: June 2022

Background

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer risk has been associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS), a surrogate indicator for unhealthy lifestyles, and a number of genetic loci, but the combined effect of MetS and genetic variants on GI cancer risk is uncertain.

Methods

We included 430,036 participants with available MetS and genotype data from UK Biobank. During the follow‐up time, 5494 incident GI cancer cases, including esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, and colorectal cancer, were identified. We created a GI polygenic risk score (GI‐PRS) for overall GI cancer derived from three site‐specific cancer PRSs. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the associations of MetS and GI‐PRS with the risk of GI cancer.

Results

MetS was significantly associated with 28% increment in GI cancer risk (hazard ratio [HR]MetS vs. non‐MetS: 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.21–1.35, p < 0.0001), whereas a high GI‐PRS (top quintile) was associated with 2.28‐fold increase in risk (HRhigh vs. low: 2.28, 95% CI: 2.09–2.49, p < 0.0001). Compared with participants without MetS and at low genetic risk (bottom quintile of GI‐PRS), those with MetS and at high genetic risk had 2.75‐fold increase in GI cancer risk (HR: 2.75, 95% CI: 2.43–3.12, p < 0.0001). Additionally, MetS in comparison with no MetS had 1.49‰, 2.75‰, and 3.37‰ absolute risk increases in 5 years among participants at low, intermediate (quintiles 2–4 of GI‐PRS) and high genetic risk, respectively, representing the number of subjects diagnosed as MetS causing a new GI cancer case in 5 years were 669, 364, and 296, respectively.

Conclusions

Metabolic and genetic factors may jointly contribute to GI cancer risk and may serve as predictors by quantitative measurements to identify high‐risk populations of GI cancer for precise prevention.
Assessment on the Stable and High‐Capacity Na−Se Batteries with Carbonate Electrolytes
Authors: Erdol Zeynep , Ata Ali , Demir‐Cakan Rezan
Published: June 2022

Factors affecting proper functioning of Na−Se system are investigated focusing on the polyselenide formation in ether‐ and carbonate‐based electrolytes. To do so, Se cathode is prepared by ball milling with commercial carbon and selenium powders. It is revealed that the soluble polyselenide species form in ether while no signature in carbonates proven by the in‐situ cyclic voltammetry and ex‐situ ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy measurements as well as monitoring self‐discharge behaviours. Different Se discharge mechanism is also highlighted by staircase potentio electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (SPEIS) that is an impedance measurement applied to each potential step. Volume expansion is targeted using different types of binders in which carboxyl methylcellulose‐styrene butadiene rubber (CMC‐SBR) delivers the highest reversible capacity and the best rate performance resulting from its high adhesion strength. To further improve the performances, fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) is used as a film forming additive that preserves Na metal integrity proven by the Na−Na symmetric cells and voltage relaxation upon cycling. As a whole, binders and electrolyte compositions are found to be the two crucial factors to obtain stable and high‐capacity Na−Se cells. This study underlines that much effort needs to be put on the strategies to overcome volume expansion than that of Se confinement into porous cathode.
A unified finite volume framework for phase‐field simulations of an arbitrary number of fluid phases
Authors: Bagheri Milad , Stumpf Bastian , Roisman Ilia V. , Dadvand Abdolrahman , Wörner Martin , Marschall Holger
Published: June 2022

While the phase‐field methodology is widely adopted for simulating two‐phase flows, the simulation of an arbitrary number (N ≥ 2) of fluid phases at physical fidelity is non‐trivial and requires special attention concerning mathematical modelling, numerical discretization, and solution algorithm. We present our most recent work with a focus on validation for multiple immiscible, incompressible, and isothermal phases, enhancing further our library for diffuse interface phase‐field interface capturing methods in OpenFOAM (FOAM‐extend 4.0/4.1). The phase‐field method is an energetic variational formulation based on the work of Cahn and Hilliard where the interface is composed of a physical diffuse layer resembling realistic interfaces. The evolution of the phases is then governed by the minimization of the free energy of the system. The accuracy of the method is demonstrated for a number of test problems, including a floating liquid lens, bubble rise in two stratified layers, and drop impact onto thin liquid film.
A new analytical model to predict heavy oil production rate in the SAGD process
Authors: Sabeti Morteza , Cheperli Ali , Rahimbakhsh Aria , Torabi Farshid
Published: June 2022

An analytical model for predicting the oil production rate in the steam‐assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) process is presented in this article. The suggested correlation is found based on Butler's original work. It considers the most effective parameters of the process that emphasize the influence of gravity drainage and that are grouped together in the form of the Rayleigh's number. The present model introduces three coefficients (i, j, and k) into the equation, which are determined by minimizing an objective function based on the difference between the six experimental SAGD datasets and the calculated results. The tool chosen for the minimization is the genetic algorithm (GA). After the initial evaluation, the same approach is used for other reservoir characteristics to ensure the robustness of the new equation. Having considered various simulation outcomes with an average error of 8.9% makes this model a credible one for predicting the SAGD production rates. The novelty of the new predictive model lies within its unique approach, making it quite fast and applicable to a wide range of reservoirs with low associated estimation inaccuracies.
Genetic correlations between switchgrass performance in sward conditions and surrogate measures
Authors: Tilhou Neal W. , Casler Michael
Published: June 2022

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) breeders use spaced‐seedling plots for evaluations of biomass yield, but prior studies are ambiguous about the relationship between performance in spaced plots and commercial seeded sward performance. This study used a split‐plot incomplete block design to evaluate 52 half‐sib switchgrass families across two years to determine the correlations among four different plot types (including seeded swards) and four individual plant traits. Plots (1.62 m2) that contained 3, 6, and 18 plants had mean yields of 5.92, 8.04, and 11.06 Mg ha–1, respectively, while seeded‐sward plots had a mean of 5.37 Mg ha–1. In a mixed‐model analysis including family‐, year‐, and plot‐type interactions with a spatial‐spline correction, the largest proportion of family variance was accounted for by the main family effect (48%), while the plot type‐by‐family effect was only 17% of family variance. These results indicate that spaced‐plant plots are reasonable surrogates for biomass performance in sward conditions. Yield reliability was 0.50 across all plot types with a mean of 0.46 for individual plot types. Surrogates for sward yield varied due to genetic background of the families. Yield of families derived from the Liberty cultivar (n = 32) had genetic correlations with winter survivorship scores (0.66). Diverse lowland ecotype families (n = 20) had genetic correlations with plant height and heading date. This study highlighted a major difference in performance among the plot types, specifically that seeded swards have depressed yield due to high plant density. This should encourage further research for the mechanism behind this difference in performance.
Diagnostic utility of flow cytometry in identifying histiocytic sarcoma—A case report
Authors: Kushwaha Pritika , Singh Meeta , Datwani Sneha , Mallya Varuna , Singh Sarika , Aggarwal Sunita
Published: June 2022

Histiocytic sarcoma (HS) is a malignant neoplasm of hematopoietic origin. It is an exceedingly rare and aggressive malignancy commonly seen in adults. Diagnosis is difficult owing to lack of specific clinical manifestations with the absence of precursor lesions or causative agents. Hence, it primarily relies on histopathological morphology combined with immunohistochemistry, which is time‐consuming, hence resulting in delayed treatment. However, diagnostic utility of flow cytometry is not well established in this. We report a case of a 45‐year‐old man who presented with right axillary lymphadenopathy for 1 month. FNAC was performed on the axillary lymph node, which showed large, atypical lymphoid/histiocyte‐like cells. On flow cytometry, these cells were CD64+, CD11c+, and CD45+ suggesting histiocytic sarcoma. Similar morphology was seen on incisional biopsy. On immunohistochemistry, the cells were negative for B and T cell markers, PAX5, EMA, CK, ALK, and CD1a and expressed CD68, S100, and CD11c. A diagnosis of histiocytic sarcoma was made. Hence, flow cytometry can be a highly effective and powerful tool for the early detection of HS and can help in prompt treatment, given its aggressive clinical course and low survival interval.
Continental shelves as detrital mixers: U–Pb and Lu–Hf detrital zircon provenance of the Pleistocene–Holocene Bering Sea and its margins
Authors: Malkowski Matthew A. , Johnstone Samuel A. , Sharman Glenn R. , White Colin J. , Scheirer Daniel S. , Barth Ginger A.
Published: June 2022

Continental shelves serve as critical transfer zones in sediment routing systems, linking the terrestrial erosional and deep‐water depositional domains. The degree to which clastic sediment is mixed and homogenised during transfer across broad shelves has important implications for understanding deep sea detrital records. Wide continental shelves are thought to act as capacitors characterised by transient sediment storage during sea‐level rise and sediment remobilisation during sea‐level fall. This study attempts to test the hypothesis that sea‐level lowstand yields more efficient and direct sediment transfer from fluvial sources to deep sea sinks compared to highstand when sediment is sequestered and mixed on the shelf. This hypothesis is tested by evaluating U–Pb and Lu–Hf detrital zircon provenance trends along the vast Bering Sea shelf and deep‐marine Beringian continental margin. Presented here are 5884 U–Pb ages and 402 Lu–Hf analyses from 30 samples to characterise the provenance of modern to Pleistocene sediment across the Bering Sea region. Both forward and inverse numerical mixture modelling was used to estimate the abundance of distinct fluvial sources in shelfal and deep‐water deposits. These results demonstrate that sediment in the Bering Sea is derived from a mixture of regional fluvial sources, but that the Yukon River is the primary detrital source for sediment throughout the region. Although Yukon River signatures are abundant in all basin samples, the relative proportions of Yukon River versus other sources vary spatially across the shelf. A comparison of Holocene and surficial sediment with Pleistocene deposits shows that sediment across the shelf and in the deep sea remains well‐mixed between climate states. Thus, detrital provenance signatures in deep‐marine deposits outward of broad transfer zones are likely to represent mixtures of fluvial sources regardless of sea level.
Separating climate change and vegetation dynamics contributions to soil drying over drylands of China: A case study in the West Liao River Basin
Authors: Bai Meng , Mo Xingguo , Mo Shuhong , Feng Jianmin
Published: June 2022

Significant soil drying has been reported in the semi‐arid Three‐North Region of China since the 1980s, yet its dominant drivers and the potential effects on dryland ecosystems are still poorly documented. In this work, the improved Vegetation Interface Processes (VIP) model was employed to characterize the spatio‐temporal pattern of the root‐zone soil moisture (RZSM) from 1982 to 2015 over the West Liao River Basin (WLRB). Results showed that RZSM decreased in most parts of the WLRB along with precipitation decline and vegetation greening. Sensitivities of RZSM to climate and vegetation dynamics exhibited obvious spatial and seasonal heterogeneity. Averaged over the whole basin, sensitivity of RZSM to precipitation (SP) is the highest. Significant seasonal differences were found in the sensitivity of RZSM to leaf area index (LAI) (SLAI). SLAI values in spring and autumn were generally negative throughout the WLRB, but prominent positive SLAI values were observed in the north‐west forest in summer, owing to the increased drier‐and‐browner associations in summer induced by the earlier spring greenness. Attribution analysis showed that relative contributions of precipitation, air temperature and LAI changes to the growing‐season RZSM (RZSMGS) drying trend were 69.0%, 17.5% and 13.5 %, respectively. It can be inferred that precipitation decrease dominated the soil drying over the WLRB, while air warming and vegetation greening accelerated this drying. In a future warming scenario without substantial increase in water use efficiency (WUE), dryland ecosystems might suffer more severe biomass losses caused by complex soil–vegetation–atmosphere interactions. This study can improve our understanding of the terrestrial–atmospheric feedbacks and their possible effects on dryland ecosystems.
Abundance, predation, and habitat associations of lemming winter nests in northern Sweden
Authors: Vigués Jan , Norén Karin , Wilkinson Caitlin , Stoessel Marianne , Angerbjörn Anders , Dalerum Fredrik
Published: June 2022

Spatially synchronous fluctuations of animal populations have profound ecological consequences, especially in northern latitudes. Spatially coupled fluctuations are often seen in small rodent populations, albeit with local and regional variations. While both resource limitation and predation influence rodent dynamics, their relative importance for generating spatial variation is less clear, particularly during winter. In this study, we quantify spatial variation in winter abundance of the Norwegian lemming (Lemmus lemmus) across three ecologically connected mountain areas in northern Sweden and evaluate whether the relative strength of bottom‐up and top‐down regulation influences such variation. Our data included observations of predated and nonpredated winter nests as well as environmental characteristics of nest locations and nest predation. While the direction of annual changes in lemming nest abundance was perfectly synchronized among the three areas, there were differences in nest abundance, potentially caused by contrasting amplitudes of temporal fluctuations in lemming winter populations. Mustelid predation was positively associated with decreasing lemming populations but did not differ in occurrence among the three areas. Lemming nests were predominantly observed in meadows, whereas areas prone to flooding and close to the tree line were underrepresented. Mustelid predation was most common close to the tree line, but not associated with geomorphological characteristics related to snow depth. We suggest that the observed differences in lemming winter abundances were caused by variations in the relative strength of bottom‐up and top‐down regulation in the three mountain areas. We encourage further studies evaluating how the relative strength of different processes influence local population regulation, and how such processes influence spatial variation in animal population dynamics at different spatial scales.
Side effects and treatment initiation barriers of sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in heart failure: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Vukadinović Davor , Abdin Amr , Anker Stefan D. , Rosano Giuseppe M.C. , Mahfoud Felix , Packer Milton , Butler Javed , Böhm Michael
Published: June 2022

Aims

Physicians are sometimes reluctant to initiate guideline‐directed therapy in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) due to concerns of adverse events. We explored the risk of hypotension, volume depletion, and acute kidney injury (AKI) on sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in HFrEF populations.

Methods and results

We determined summary risk ratios (RRs) by conducting a meta‐analysis on reported aforementioned adverse events on SGLT2 inhibitors from randomized controlled trials. We explored robustness of meta‐analyses by computing fragility and/or reverse fragility index (FI or RFI) and its corresponding fragility quotient (FQ or RFQ) for each outcome. A total of 10 050 patients with HFrEF entered the final meta‐analysis. Hypotension was reported in 4.5% (219/4836) on SGLT2 inhibitors and in 4.1% (202/4846) on placebo (RR 1.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.91–1.31, p = 0.36). An RFI of 21 and RFQ of 0.002 suggest robust findings for hypotension. Volume depletion occurred in 9.4% (473/5019) on SGLT2 inhibitors and in 8.7% (438/5031) on placebo (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.95–1.21, p = 0.25), respectively. RFI of 19 and RFQ of 0.001 suggest moderately robust findings for volume depletion. AKI was reported in fewer patients (1.9% [95/4888]) on SGLT2 inhibitors than on placebo (2.8% [140/4899]) providing lower incidence of AKI (RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.51–0.93, p = 0.02). FI of 14 and RFQ of 0.001 suggest moderately robust findings for AKI.

Conclusion

Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor therapy is not associated with a clinically relevant risk of hypotension and volume depletion. Its use reduces the risk of AKI. This analysis supports current guideline recommendations on early use of SGLT2 inhibitors.
A novel 3D Tesla valve micromixer for efficient mixing and chitosan nanoparticle production
Authors: Guo Kefan , Chen Yao , Zhou Zheng , Zhu Shu , Ni Zhonghua , Xiang Nan
Published: June 2022

Current three‐dimensional micromixers for continuous flow reactions and nanoparticle synthesis are complex in structure and difficult to fabricate. This paper investigates the design, fabrication, and characterization of a novel micromixer that uses a simple spatial Tesla valve design to achieve efficient mixing of multiple solutions. The flow characteristics and mixing efficiencies of our Tesla valve micromixer are investigated using a combination of numerical simulations and experiments. The results show that in a wide range of flow rates, viscoelastic solutions with different concentrations can be well mixed in our micromixer. Finally, experiments on the synthesis of chitosan nanoparticles are conducted to verify the practicability of our micromixer. Compared with nanoparticles prepared by conventional magnetic stirring, the size of nanoparticles prepared by micromixing is smaller and the distribution is more uniform. Therefore, our Tesla valve micromixer has significant advantages and implications for mixing chemical and biological reactions.
Evaluation and optimization of engine performance and exhaust emissions of a diesel engine fueled with diestrol blends
Authors: Rafiee Shahin , Shabani Zeinab , Khoshnevisan Benyamin , Ghobadian Barat , Nasiri Amin
Published: June 2022

Biofuel is a nontoxic and renewable fuel and could be used in diesel engines in combination with diesel to reduce emissions. The effects of various biodiesel–ethanol–diesel (BED) blends were investigated on the engine power, specific fuel consumption (SFC), engine vibration, and pollutant emissions. The engine experiments were performed using nine castor biodiesel and ethanol blends under five different engine speeds. The engine power was not influenced by different BED blends while B5E4, and B5E6 fuel blends had the highest SFC. The engine vibration slightly increased when fueled with BED blends. Hydrocarbon emission diminished by increasing biodiesel percentage in the blends, whereas it increased by substituting more ethanol in BED blends. NOx emission was increased by adding more biodiesel into BED blends, while ethanol performed vice versa. The results showed that CO emission was enhanced by increasing ethanol percentage, while it decreased with more biodiesel addition. There was not a remarkable difference in CO2 emissions between different treatments. A novel combination of an Adaptive Neuro‐Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) modeling and Honeybee Mating Optimization (HBMO) method was adopted to find a global optimum BED blend considering various output parameters. The selected ANFIS model satisfactorily predicted the engine efficiency and exhaust emissions with R2, mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), and root‐mean‐squared error (RMSE) of 0.99, 0.02, and 0.11, respectively. Consequently, using the HBMO algorithm, the BED blend with 15% of biodiesel, 6% of ethanol, and 79% of pure diesel was found to be the most optimal BED blend for a diesel engine at an engine speed of 950 rpm.
What happens in the course of positive mirror exposure? Effects on eating pathology, body satisfaction, affect, and subjective physiological arousal in patients with anorexia and bulimia nervosa
Authors: Tanck Julia A. , Hartmann Andrea S. , Svaldi Jennifer , Hagena Silka , Osen Bernhard , Stierle Carolin , Vocks Silja
Published: June 2022

Objective

Mirror exposure (ME) is a therapeutic technique to improve body image disturbance. However, evidence on the effectiveness of different forms of ME in clinical populations is lacking. The present study therefore analysed effects of ME on trait‐like and state measures of body image in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN).

Method

The present study therefore analysed effects of ME on trait‐like and state measures of body image in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN). In total, 47 inpatients underwent 3 ME sessions guided by a therapist, with instructions to exclusively verbalise positively about their whole body. Participants completed questionnaires on trait‐like eating pathology and body image at the start and end of the study, and instruments on state affect and body satisfaction were administered directly before and after each ME session. Subjective physiological arousal and emotional valence relating to each body part were assessed within each session.

Results

The results indicate significant improvements in eating pathology and body image regarding trait‐like measures in patients with AN and BN. Concerning state measures, negative affect significantly decreased and body satisfaction increased during ME. Physiological arousal decreased and positively valenced emotions relating to the various body parts increased.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that positively verbalising about one's body during ME improves eating pathology, body image, affect, and subjective physiological arousal, and thus seems to be an effective form of ME.
Insights into the interaction between typical amines and alkaline minerals for improved CO2 absorption and mineralization
Authors: Ji Long , Li Jiabi , Liu Nan , Wang Wenzhong , Zheng Xuan , He Qingyao , Hua Ming , Yan Shuiping
Published: June 2022

Amine scrubbing is a mature technology to cut down CO2 emissions from human activities but suffers from a high energy consumption of solvent regeneration. The integrated CO2 absorption and mineralization (IAM) process can effectively reduce the energy consumption of amine regeneration by replacing traditional thermal regeneration with chemical regeneration via CO2 mineralization. However, a fundamental understanding of the interaction between typical amines and alkaline minerals was still lacking. In this paper, the effects of amine types on amine regeneration, alkaline metal leaching, and CaCO3 precipitation during the IAM process were explored by using five typical amines and Ca(OH)2/Mg(OH)2. Results showed very different regeneration kinetics and efficiencies were observed in five selected amine solutions, which displayed a decreased performance in the order TEA > MDEA > DEA > AMP > MEA. The regeneration performance was significantly affected by the dissolution of Ca(OH)2/Mg(OH)2 which was inversely proportional to the trend of their pKa values. TEA displayed the largest regeneration efficiency of about 95% by Ca(OH)2 and 83% by Mg(OH)2, which was much larger than other amines reported in the open literature, due to its lower pKa value than other selected amines. More interestingly, the particle size of CaCO3 produced from amine solutions was smaller than that from CaCl2 solution reported in the literature. There was a rough linear relationship between CaCO3 particle size and amine pKa values. TEA induced the formation of nano scaled CaCO3, which might be attributed to the adsorbing of TEA on the CaCO3 crystal and inhibiting the crystal growth. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of cardiac MRI in the diagnosis of immune checkpoint inhibitor‐associated myocarditis
Authors: Cau Riccardo , Solinas Cinzia , De Silva Pushpamali , Lambertini Matteo , Agostinetto Elisa , Scartozzi Mario , Montisci Roberta , Pontone Gianluca , Porcu Michele , Saba Luca
Published: June 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)‐induced cardiotoxicity is a rare immune‐related adverse event (irAE) characterized by a high mortality rate. From a pathological point of view, this condition can result from a series of causes, including binding of ICIs to target molecules on nonlymphocytic cells, cross‐reaction of T lymphocytes against tumor antigens with off‐target tissues, generation of autoantibodies and production of proinflammatory cytokines. The diagnosis of ICI‐induced cardiotoxicity can be challenging, and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) represents the diagnostic tool of choice in clinically stable patients with suspected myocarditis. CMR is gaining a central role in diagnosis and monitoring of cardiovascular damage in cancer patients, and it is entering international cardiology and oncology guidelines. In this narrative review, we summarized the clinical aspects of ICI‐associated myocarditis, highlighting its radiological aspects and proposing a novel algorithm for the use of CMR.
The religion effect on corporate cash holding in China: Buddhism and Taoism
Authors: Xiong Lingyun , Xiao Lijuan , Bai Min , Qin Yafeng , Yang Lijuan
Published: June 2022

Buddhism and Taoism have been deeply rooted in China for generations and both of them have a profound impact on the local culture and social norms. By employing 23,999 firm‐year observations between 2008 and 2018, we examine how local religious norms affect corporate cash policies. We provide strong evidence that religiosity significantly reduces the level of corporate cash holdings, by mitigating financial constraints and earnings management of the listed companies. Managers from religious areas make more effective investments and distribute more dividends. Furthermore, our findings document that religion has a more pronounced influence on cash holdings amongst the firms with the smaller size, lower leverage, higher marketization, effective internal control and facing fierce market competition. Overall, Buddhism and Taoism, constituting the main religious norms in China, significantly optimize the firms' cash holdings and firm value.
Calculation of absolute Raman scattering cross‐sections using vibrational self‐consistent field/vibrational configuration interaction wave functions
Authors: Carvalho Jhonatas R. , Vidal Luciano N.
Published: June 2022

In the present study, the differential scattering cross‐sections, depolarization ratios and Raman shifts of small molecular systems are obtained from configuration iteration wave functions of vibrational self‐consistent field (VSCF) states. The transition polarizabilities were modeled using the Placzek approximation, neglecting those contributions not arising from the electric dipole mechanism. This theoretical approach is considered a good approximation for samples that absorb in the UV range if the excitation radiation falls in the visible region, as is the case of the molecules selected for the present study, namely: water, methane, and acetylene. Potential energy and electronic polarizability surfaces are calculated by the CCSD(T) and CC3 methods with aug‐cc‐p(C)V(T,Q,5)Z basis sets. The vibrational Hamiltonian includes the vibrational angular momentum contribution of the Watson kinetic energy operator. As expected, due to the variational nature of the VSCF and vibrational configuration interaction (VCI) methods, the Raman transition wavenumbers are substantially improved over the harmonic predictions. Surprisingly, the scattering cross‐sections obtained using the harmonic approximation or the VSCF method better agrees with the experimental values than those cross‐sections predicted using VCI wave functions. The more significant deviations of the VCI results from the experimental reference may be related to the significant uncertainties of the measured cross‐sections. Still, it may also indicate that the VCI Raman transition moments may require a more accurate description of the electronic polarizability surface. Finally, the depolarization ratios calculated for H2O and C2D2 using harmonic and VCI wave functions have similar accuracy, whereas, for C2H2 and C2HD, the VCI results are more accurate.
Charge transport in molecular junctions: General physical pictures, electrical measurement techniques, and their challenges
Authors: Peng Hao Howard , Chen Chun‐hsien
Published: June 2022

Investigations on charge transport (CT) at a molecular scale are essential for both fundamental science and miniaturized electronic devices. A prototypical platform for studying CT through molecules is configured as electrode‐molecule‐electrode (EME). The quantum mechanical nature and microscopic interfacial interaction enrich the journey of the transporting charge through EME junctions, which have inspired many theoretical efforts into this interdisciplinary topic. In parallel, several experimental techniques have been developed to characterize EME CT properties. This mini‐review aims to provide general physical pictures for those new to this field to comprehend molecular‐scale CT. Prevalent experimental techniques termed break‐junctions are briefly reviewed, which are often corroborated with simple physical models to characterize CT through EME junctions. Challenges of these techniques and concerns over the use of simple models are also complied herein to facilitate the understanding of CT through various EME systems.
A myriad of posterior fossa cysts: A single center experience
Authors: Yadav Arushi , Singh Chanchal , Dagar Savita , Shastri Aditi , Prakash Ritika , Thakur Seema
Published: June 2022

Antenatal posterior fossa cystic lesions are intimidating due to overlapping imaging features of benign and severe malformations. Sonographic assessment of the posterior fossa with good resolution median sagittal and axial views, either primary or secondarily reconstructed, plays the lead role in antenatal evaluation, further enhanced when sequential assessments are added. We present 10 cases of fetal posterior fossa cystic lesions diagnosed in the first and second trimesters that were sequentially analyzed and followed up till delivery or termination. The ultrasound imaging appearance, evolution, and morphometry have been presented in this article.
Pitfalls of iron supplementation in parenteral nutrition admixtures for children with intestinal failure
Authors: Herdes Rachel E. , Oliveira Stephanie B. , Kocoshis Samuel A. , Bernieh Anas , Namjoshi Shweta S.
Published: June 2022

Background

Pediatric patients with intestinal failure are at increased risk for iron deficiency. Supplementation is not routinely included in parenteral nutrition solutions. There is currently limited research related to the safety of iron supplementation in parenteral nutrition and for intravenous forms used in patients with intestinal failure. Current American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition and ESPGHAN guidelines promote the use of enteral iron, acknowledging the risks of using iron supplementation within parenteral nutrition admixtures.

Methods

We review a patient case and the current available literature related to iron in parenteral nutrition.

Results

Five major concerns are identified: peroxidation reactions, incompatibility, hypersensitivity, infection risk, and iron overload.

Conclusion

We propose an argument against the preferential use of iron supplementation within parenteral nutrition in children with intestinal failure when enteral supplementation or intermittent parenteral infusion may be sufficient.
The role of Collembola for litter decomposition under minimum and conventional tillage
Authors: Hanisch Jörg , Engell Ilka , Linsler Deborah , Scheu Stefan , Potthoff Martin
Published: June 2022

Background

The role of soil mesofauna in decomposition processes still is debated and this applies in particular to arable systems.

Aim

This study investigates the role of Collembola in decomposition processes of crop residues in two different tillage systems.

Methods

We conducted a litterbag experiment in a long‐term field site in Germany managed by conventional tillage (CT; mouldboard ploughing) and minimum tillage (MT). Litterbags filled with maize leaf litter of two mesh sizes (2 mm and 48 μm) were used. Litterbags were buried at 23 cm (CT) and 5–8 cm (MT), and retrieved after 2, 5 and 7 months. Litter mass, concentrations of carbon and nitrogen, litter C/N ratio as well as the abundance and community structure of Collembola and the incorporation of maize‐derived carbon into Collembola were investigated.

Results

Mesofauna enhanced the loss of litter carbon, while litter mass loss was reduced. Litter C/N ratio in MT was generally lower than that in CT and decreased faster in litterbags with coarse mesh size. Abundance of Collembola in litterbags in CT exceeded that in MT, but species composition remained unaffected by tillage. Overall, Collembola effectively colonised the litter irrespective of tillage system, but benefited in particular from translocation deeper into the soil by conventional tillage.

Conclusions

Mesofauna accelerates litter carbon loss and increases litter nitrogen accumulation irrespective of tillage system. This may reduce nitrogen losses due to leaching in winter and facilitate nitrogen capture from decomposing litter material by crops in the following season, thereby contributing to the sustainable management of arable systems.
The functions and applications of GDSL esterase/lipase proteins in agriculture: A review
Authors: Aparato Vincent P. M. , Suh Dae‐Yeon
Published: June 2022

GDSL esterase/lipase proteins (GELPs) compose a family of enzymes identified by a unique “GDSL” amino acid sequence motif. GELPs can accept a broad range of substrates and are functionally diverse. They are involved in various key physiological processes in plants such as cuticle development, seed oil storage, male fertility, and biotic and abiotic stress responses. Thus, genetic manipulation of GELPs has the potential to be beneficial in agriculture. As examples, the Seed Fatty Acid Reducer proteins in rapeseed (Brassica napus) function in seed oil degradation, and their down‐regulation (or knockout) may increase rapeseed oil yield. Xanthophyll acyltransferase in wheat (Triticum aestivum) catalyzes the esterification of lutein for storage, and enhancing its activity may produce wheat grains with higher carotenoid content. In this review, we aim to highlight various GELPs in globally important crops including maize, rice, wheat, soybean, and rapeseed, and discuss their potential as targets for genetic modification which will be useful in improving crop yield, quality, or both.
Expression retargeting from images to three‐dimensional face models represented in texture space
Authors: Tu Ziqi , Weng Dongdong , Liang Bin , Luo Le
Published: June 2022

Facial expressions play a very important role in creating a vivid and realistic virtual character. This paper proposes a convolutional neural network‐based facial expression retargeting framework named EXPUV‐Net, which can extract expression information from an image and transfer it to a specified 3D face. With the help of the nonlinear generator, the proposed framework can generate rich facial expressions and does not rely on the blendshape model. A data augmentation approach is adopted in this paper, which can improve the adaptability of the proposed framework. The framework can realize expression retargeting for face models with different topologies. This paper also demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed framework through some experiments and compares it with some linear face model‐based methods for facial component extraction and face reconstruction. The results show that the proposed framework has better performance than the linear methods. The proposed framework is very helpful for facial expression generation for virtual characters.
Clinical outcomes of multifocal papillary thyroid cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cui Likun , Feng Dongdong , Zhu Chaofan , Li Qiuyu , Li Wenqing , Liu Baoguo
Published: June 2022

Objective

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common endocrine malignancy with a steadily increasing incidence. Researches have reported that tumor multifocality occurs in an extensive number of cases. Nevertheless, the clinical characteristics and prognostic value remained controversial. This study was performed to investigate the relationship between multifocal PTC and adverse clinicopathologic features and the prognosis.

Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis were conducted based on three electronic databases up to December 31, 2021. Parameters of interest included five clinical features (extrathyroidal extension, lymphovascular invasion, central lymph node metastasis, lateral lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis) and were pooled into risk ratios (RRs). Time‐to‐event data (recurrence‐free survival and all‐cause mortality) were evaluated using hazard ratios (HRs). Publication bias was examined using funnel plots and Egger's test.

Results

A total of 23 articles were included according to the inclusion criteria; all of the studies were retrospective cohorts. In comparison with unifocality, multifocality showed an increased risk of extrathyroidal extension (RR 1.38, 95% CI 1.25–1.53), lymphovascular invasion (RR 1.27, 95% CI 1.04–1.55), central lymph node metastasis (RR 1.21, 95% CI 1.12–1.30), lateral lymph node metastasis (RR 1.86, 95% CI 1.62–2.14), and distant metastasis (RR 1.35, 95% CI 1.03–1.76). Multifocal patients were predisposed to postoperative recurrence (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.50–2.07). The rate of all‐cause mortality did not reach a statistical difference.

Level of Evidence

2.

Conclusion

Multifocal PTC is more aggressive in contrast to unifocal PTC and is accompanied by an increased risk of recurrence. They were usually diagnosed in higher grades and stages. To achieve the maximal benefit, we recommend personalized therapy and close follow‐up for multifocal PTC patients. Further prospective studies will clarify the best‐fitted treatment plans.
A review on design and implementation of type‐2 fuzzy controllers
Authors: Jahanshahi Hadi , Yousefpour Amin , Soradi‐Zeid Samaneh , Castillo Oscar
Published: June 2022

Nowadays, advances in different fields of technology have increased demands for reliable controllers. Uncertainty and disturbances, which are inevitable in most real‐world systems, as well as increasing complexity in the dynamics of many systems, are requiring the design and application of intelligent controllers. Fuzzy controllers, and specifically type‐2 fuzzy control techniques, could play a beneficial role in a variety of control purposes, since they are robust against uncertainties. Therefore, an immense body of research is devoted to these fuzzy control techniques. This paper introduces a comprehensive review about the most recent advances in the design and implementation of type‐2 fuzzy control schemes both for integer‐ and fractional‐order systems. Thus, in addition to the past and present achievements in this context, future trends are also delineated. Moreover, most important works dealing with type‐2 fuzzy controller are discussed, and their advantages and drawbacks are outlined. Consequently, we firmly believe the present paper will pave the way for future research in this area.
Revisiting undrained cavity expansion problem in critical state soils: A simple graph‐based approach
Authors: Wang Xu , Chen Shengli
Published: June 2022

This paper presents analytical solutions for the finite expansion problems of a spherical or cylindrical cavity, using a simple yet novel graphical approach recently proposed by Chen & Abousleiman in 2022, in both original Cam Clay (OCC) and modified Cam Clay (MCC) soils under undrained conditions. It is shown that, for a soil mass subjected to isotropic in situ stress conditions, the stress paths in the deviatoric plane for the spherical and cylindrical cavity expansions turn out to be two straight lines, which correspond to Lode angles equal to and , respectively. The desired limiting cavity pressure therefore can be directly and accurately evaluated through simple numerical integration with respect to the mean effective stress, while the relationship between the internal cavity pressure and the cavity radius, the cavity expansion curve, may be equally conveniently determined. Numerical results obtained from the current graphical method, for a range of the values of over consolidation ratio considered, compare extremely well with those from the conventional semianalytical formulations of the undrained cavity problem that involve solving a system of coupled governing differential equations. It is interesting to note that the representative and approximate solution developed by Collins & Yu in 1996 indeed is a correct one for the spherical cavity expansion problem, and, with minor modifications, will be applicable for the accurate calculation of the responses of the cylindrical cavity as well.