bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Straightforward fabrication of robust and healable superhydrophobic steel mesh based on polydimethylsiloxane
Authors: Wang Qing , Xie Dong , Chen Junjia , Luo Jie , Chen Guangxue , Yu Mingguang
Published: February 2022

A straightforward and scalable strategy was presented for the fabrication of superhydrophobic stainless steel mesh (SSM) by depositing with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to perform the hydrophobic effect. After the thermal processing with a flame for seconds, the PDMS coated steel mesh demonstrated excellent integration of superhydrophobic/superoleophilic properties. Besides, the resultant SSM showed efficient separation ability of water‐in‐oil emulsion. Furthermore, the surfaces also exhibited excellent tolerance to various chemical, UV irradiated and strongly friction‐resistant against sandpaper (50 g of force for 1000 cm). More strikingly, the damaged surfaces losing its superhydrophobicity can be simply healed by reapplying flame heat to the worn area. This straightforward and healable synthetic strategy for the manufacture of superhydrophobic SSM offers potential applications in large‐scale oil/water separation.
2022 American College of Rheumatology/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology Classification Criteria for Microscopic Polyangiitis
Authors: Suppiah Ravi , Robson Joanna C. , Grayson Peter C. , Ponte Cristina , Craven Anthea , Khalid Sara , Judge Andrew , Hutchings Andrew , Merkel Peter A. , Luqmani Raashid A. , Watts Richard A. ,   for the DCVAS Study Group
Published: February 2022

Objective

To develop and validate classification criteria for microscopic polyangiitis (MPA).

Methods

Patients with vasculitis or comparator diseases were recruited into an international cohort. The study proceeded in 5 phases: 1) identification of candidate items using consensus methodology, 2) prospective collection of candidate items present at the time of diagnosis, 3) data‐driven reduction of the number of candidate items, 4) expert panel review of cases to define the reference diagnosis, and 5) derivation of a points‐based risk score for disease classification in a development set using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator logistic regression, with subsequent validation of performance characteristics in an independent set of cases and comparators.

Results

The development set for MPA consisted of 149 cases of MPA and 408 comparators. The validation set consisted of an additional 142 cases of MPA and 414 comparators. From 91 candidate items, regression analysis identified 10 items for MPA, 6 of which were retained. The final criteria and their weights were as follows: perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) or anti–myeloperoxidase‐ANCA positivity (+6), pauci‐immune glomerulonephritis (+3), lung fibrosis or interstitial lung disease (+3), sino‐nasal symptoms or signs (−3), cytoplasmic ANCA or anti–proteinase 3 ANCA positivity (−1), and eosinophil count ≥1 × 109/liter (−4). After excluding mimics of vasculitis, a patient with a diagnosis of small‐ or medium‐vessel vasculitis could be classified as having MPA with a cumulative score of ≥5 points. When these criteria were tested in the validation data set, the sensitivity was 91% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 85–95%) and the specificity was 94% (95% CI 92–96%).

Conclusion

The 2022 American College of Rheumatology/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology classification criteria for MPA are now validated for use in clinical research.
Robust point‐to‐point iterative learning control for high speed trains with model uncertainty and wind gust
Authors: Li Zhenxuan , Hou Zhongsheng , Zhang Ruikun , Yin Chenkun
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a point‐to‐point iterative learning control strategy for a cascaded multibody high‐speed train (HST) system with model uncertainty and external disturbance is designed to address a specified given desired points tracking problem. The proposed method, which only used desired point information rather than whole trajectory information, is used to improve the multiple‐point tracking accuracy by enjoying the repetitiveness of an HST. A norm‐optimal method is employed in the ILC operating framework to analyze the HST model with parametric uncertainties and external disturbances. Both a rigorous mathematical analysis and detailed simulation results confirm the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Self‐discipline predictive control of autonomous vehicles against denial of service attacks
Authors: Sun Hong‐Tao , Peng Chen , Ding Fei
Published: February 2022

This paper presents a novel (SPC) scheme for the path following of autonomous vehicles (AVs) subject to denial of service (DoS) attacks. First, by considering the energy constraints of DoS attacks, bounded but arbitrary packet dropouts is used to characterize the effects of DoS attacks. Then, a switched control system model is established to describe the path following control of AVs under DoS attacks. In what follows, the SPC scheme, which depends on the detection of packet dropout from actuator side, is developed to compensate the packet dropout while there are no feedback measurements available. The main advantage of the proposed SPC scheme is that the predictive control design only depends on the latest available measurement and not affected by external disturbance. This is important to the control of networked systems under DoS attacks. At last, the corresponding experiments on path following control of the AVs are carried out in order to verify the validity of theory results.
Fair trade and consumer valuation: Purchase intentions in an emerging economy
Authors: De la Piedra‐Vindrola Sergio E. , Berbel‐Pineda Juan M. , Palacios‐Florencio Beatriz
Published: February 2022

In the scientific literature, there is little evidence of empirical research concerning the impact of fair trade (FT) on shopping behaviour (this is practically non‐existent, if we consider studies in emerging economies. For this reason, the aim of this research is to analyse to what extent consumers value FT practices in the context of an emerging economy and how these affect their purchase intentions. For this purpose, partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS‐SEM) is used. The data are based on a sample of 409 consumers of an emerging economy (Peru). According to the results, the intention to purchase FT products by Peruvian consumers depends directly on the variables FT knowledge and attitude towards FT. Furthermore, the indirect influence on the purchase intention of the beliefs about FT variable is verified. On the other hand, the results obtained indicate that there are no differences between Peruvian women and men in terms of direct relations among model constructs. These results enable understanding consumer valuations of emerging economies concerning the responsible practices of firms. The study's findings have significant implications for the management of FT by public organisations and firms. There is evidence that consumers can start to value these FT policies, since they show a favourable disposition towards the consumption of products made or marketed with FT practices.
Dental implants at sites of focal high and mixed density osseous lesions: Treatment strategies
Authors: Akers Joshua A. , Johnson Thomas M. , Wagner Jennah C. , Vargas Sarah M. , Colamarino Aaron N. , Jenzer Andrew C. , Lincicum Adam R. , Hawie Jennifer B. , Lancaster Douglas D.
Published: February 2022

Focused Clinical Question

Under what circumstances may a clinician consider dental implant placement at a site exhibiting a focal high or mixed density (HMD) osseous lesion radiologically?

Some conditions and pathologic entities exhibiting high and mixed density radiological appearance pose low risk for dental implant failure or complications following implant surgery. However, other lesions represent contraindications to implant placement, and implant surgery at such sites can result in severe morbidity.

Conclusion

Potential implant sites exhibiting focal HMD osseous lesions/conditions present varying levels of risk. In most cases, optimal management will include advanced imaging of the site, multidisciplinary consultations, and detailed informed consent to assure full understanding of procedural risks, benefits, and complications. Currently, clinical recommendations rely on case reports, opinion, and usual practice (level 3 evidence). The strength of each recommendation provided in this report is categorized as level C.
Liquid‐Liquid Centrifugal Extractors: Types and Recent Applications – a Review
Authors: Hamamah Zaid Alkhier , Grützner Thomas
Published: February 2022

In light of the elevating pressures toward adopting intensifying technologies, centrifugal extractors are increasingly drawing attention as a promising alternative to traditional extraction equipment. Recently, many fields have applied them in research and that resulted in a considerable amount of information that may be hard to follow. To keep interested researchers updated, this work presents the state‐of‐the‐art status of those devices. That is, the different types of centrifugal extractors are first surveyed with emphasis on those available on the market nowadays. Then, their recent applications are covered with exclusion of two fields: oil‐water separations and nuclear industry, as the purpose is to accent centrifugal extractors' potential and compatibility with the widest possible range of applications beyond traditional ones. A further section addresses the hydrodynamics of annular centrifugal contactors that form a major subfamily of centrifugal extractors. Those annular variants have received special focus throughout this work, since not only are they the most encountered devices in literature but also still to date under development with latest versions being 3D‐printed.
α‐Dioxygenases (α‐DOXs): Promising Biocatalysts for the Environmentally Friendly Production of Aroma Compounds
Authors: Kim In Jung , Bayer Thomas , Terholsen Henrik , Bornscheuer Uwe T.
Published: February 2022

Fatty aldehydes (FALs) can be derived from fatty acids (FAs) and related compounds and are frequently used as flavors and fragrances. Although chemical methods have been conventionally used, their selective biotechnological production aiming at more efficient and eco‐friendly synthetic routes is in demand. α‐Dioxygenases (α‐DOXs) are heme‐dependent oxidative enzymes biologically involved in the initial step of plant FA α‐oxidation during which molecular oxygen is incorporated into the Cα‐position of a FA (Cn) to generate the intermediate FA hydroperoxide, which is subsequently converted into the shortened corresponding FAL (Cn‐1). α‐DOXs are promising biocatalysts for the flavor and fragrance industries, they do not require NAD(P)H as cofactors or redox partner proteins, and they have a broad substrate scope. Here, we highlight recent advances in the biocatalytic utilization of α‐DOXs with emphasis on newly discovered cyanobacterial α‐DOXs as well as analytical methods to measure α‐DOX activity in vitro and in vivo.
Sinonasal mucosal melanoma presenting as a maxillary sinus mass: A case report
Authors: Gautam Kamal , Tiwari Sansar Babu , Shrestha Suraj , Gaire Prabin , Dulal Malati , Shrestha Bibek Man , Dhital Roman , Manandhar Usha , Baral Arun Kumar
Published: February 2022

Maxillary sinus melanoma is a rare mucosal melanoma difficult to diagnose in the absence of pigmentation. Intranasal masses presenting with the features of occult malignancy and rapid progression should always be investigated in the line of melanoma irrespective of pigmentation. The histopathological and immunohistochemical examination helps to confirm the diagnosis.
CNT@MnO2 composite ink toward a flexible 3D printed micro‐zinc‐ion battery
Authors: Ren Yujin , Meng Fanbo , Zhang Siwen , Ping Bu , Li Hui , Yin Bosi , Ma Tianyi
Published: February 2022

Flexible energy storage devices have played a significant role in multiscenario applications, while flexible zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs), as an essential branch, have developed rapidly in recent years. Three‐dimensional (3D) printing is an extremely advanced technology to design and modify the structure of batteries and provides unlimited possibilities for the diversified development of energy storage equipment. Herein, by utilizing 3D printing technology, carbon nanotube (CNT) is coated by MnO2 to form a flexible CNT@MnO2 ink as a cathode for flexible aqueous micro‐ZIBs for the first time and zinc powder ink is used as an anode due to its high flexibility and bendability. The Zn//CNT@MnO2 flexible battery shows a stable capacity of 63 μAh cm−2 at 0.4 mA cm−2. When the battery is bent in different states, the maximum capacity loss compared with the initial value is only 2.72%, indicating its stability. This study shows the potential of 3D printing technology in the development of flexible manganese‐based ZIBs.
Evaluation and characterization of approximate arithmetic circuits
Authors: Catelan Daniela , Santos Ricardo , Duenha Liana
Published: February 2022

With the end of Dennard's scale, processor designers have been looking for new technical alternatives so that approximate computing (AC) has managed to attract the attention of researchers by offering techniques ranging from the application level to the circuit level. When applying approximate circuits into hardware design, the program user may speed up the application. At the same time, a designer may save area and power dissipation at the cost of less accuracy on the results of operations. This article discusses the compromise between controlled accuracy versus physical efficiency by evaluating a set of arithmetic circuits designs. The article also presents new mixed organization approximate designs. To evaluate the approximate design benefits, we performed a comprehensive set of experiments from tailor‐made approximate arithmetic circuits on field‐programmable gate array and application specific integrated circuits technologies. Our results reveal that our proposed mixed approximate designs have promising results on error rates, area usage, and power dissipation compared to the related work. Another interesting result is that one should care about the prototyping platform where the approximate hardware will be synthesized. Tailor‐made approximate cells may take advantage on intrinsic design details than standard cells or even general prototyping platforms.
Toward a reference architecture based science gateway framework with embedded e‐learning support
Authors: Pierantoni Gabriele , Kiss Tamas , Bolotov Alexander , Kagialis Dimitrios , DesLauriers James , Ullah Amjad , Chen Huankai , Fee David Chan You , Dang Hai‐Van , Kovacs Jozsef , Belehaki Anna , Herekakis Themistocles , Tsagouri Ioanna , Gesing Sandra
Published: February 2022

Science gateways have been widely utilized by a large number of user communities to simplify access to complex distributed computing infrastructures. While science gateways are still becoming increasingly popular and the number of user communities is growing, the fast and efficient creation of new science gateways and the flexibility to deploy these gateways on‐demand on heterogeneous computational resources, remain a challenge. Additionally, the increase in the number of users, especially with very different backgrounds, requires intuitive embedded e‐learning tools that support all stakeholders to find related learning material and to guide the learning process. This paper introduces a novel science gateway framework that addresses these challenges. The framework supports the creation, publication, selection, and deployment of cloud‐based reference architectures that can be automatically instantiated and executed even by nontechnical users. The framework also incorporates a knowledge repository exchange and learning module that provides embedded e‐learning support. To demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed solution, two scientific case studies are presented based on the requirements of the plasmasphere, ionosphere, and thermosphere research communities.
Evidence‐based selection of reference genes for RT‐qPCR assays in periodontal research
Authors: Diehl Daniel , Friedmann Anton , Bachmann Hagen S.
Published: February 2022

Objective

To underline the necessity of adequate reference genes for real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and evaluate a novel tool for condition‐specific reference gene selection.

Background

RT‐qPCR is a commonly used experimental technique that allows for highly sensitive analysis of gene transcription. Moreover, the use of internal reference genes as a means for relative quantification has rendered RT‐qPCR a straightforward method for a variety of sciences, including dentistry. However, the expressional stability of internal reference genes must be evaluated for every assay in order to account for possible quantification bias.

Materials and Methods

Herein, we used the software tool RefGenes to identify putatively stable reference genes with the help of microarray datasets and evaluated them. Additionally, we propose an evidence‐based workflow for adequate normalization of thusly identified genes. Human gingival fibroblasts (HGF‐hTert), human acute leukemia‐derived monocytes (THP‐1), and telomerase immortalized gingival keratinocytes (TIGKs) were subjected to set‐ups simulating various glycemic conditions and lipopolysaccharide challenges. Five common housekeeping genes (HKGs) and five genes from RefGenes were selected as targets and RT‐qPCR was performed subsequently. Then, normalization algorithms Bestkeeper, Normfinder, and geNorm were used for further analysis of the putative reference gene stability.

Results

RefGenes‐derived targets exhibited the highest stability values in THP‐1 and TIGK cell lines. Moreover, unacceptable standard variations were observed for some common HKG like β‐actin. However, common HKG exhibited good stability values in HGF‐hTert cells.

Conclusion

The results indicate that microarray‐based preselection of putative reference genes is a valuable refinement for RT‐qPCR studies. Accordingly, the present study proposes a straightforward workflow for evidence‐based preselection and validation of internal reference genes.
Effects of oral screen exercise on orofacial and pharyngeal activity: An exploratory study using videofluoroscopy and surface electromyography in healthy adults
Authors: Bengtsson Lisa , Dotevall Hans , Sjögreen Lotta , Ragnemalm Lena , Tuomi Lisa
Published: February 2022

Objective

The oral screen is a device commonly used for treatment of orofacial disorders. The objective of this exploratory study was to examine the effect of oral screen exercise on the muscle activity in the lips, submental complex, masseter muscle, and kinematic activity of the tongue base, soft palate, pharynx, and larynx in healthy adults. This was compared with the kinematic activity during a dry swallow. It was hypothesized that not only the lip musculature but also other structures in the oral and pharyngeal cavities are activated while using an oral screen device.

Method

Ten healthy subjects used an oral screen during examination with videofluoroscopy and surface electromyography (EMG). Three different instructions for oral screen application and a dry swallow were examined.

Results

The lip muscles showed the highest activity during oral screen exercise. The other muscle groups were activated to a lesser degree. The pattern of activation differed between individuals. Compared with a dry swallow, the range of motion of the tongue base, posterior pharyngeal wall, and the larynx was significantly smaller during oral screen activation. No major differences were found between three different instructions.

Conclusion

This study indicates that the lips and submental complex and, to a lesser degree, oral, pharyngeal, and laryngeal structures are activated with the oral screen, but the pattern of activation varied between individuals. In comparison to the activity during a dry swallow, range of motion during oral screen exercise is small.
Half‐selection disturbance free 8T low leakage SRAM cell
Authors: Lorenzo Rohit , Paily Roy
Published: February 2022

This work presents a robust and low leakage new 8T static random access memory (SRAM) cell without any half‐selection disturbance. The proposed cell removes write disturbance by eliminating the trail from supply and ground. Furthermore, it removes the read disturbance by separating the read trail from the storage node. The proposed cell addresses the challenge of half select by using different control signals. The cell achieves low leakage because of virtual ground (VGND), series connected tail transistor, and access series stack transistors. To study the usefulness of the proposed SRAM, it is compared with 6T, 10T, 9T, PG9T, 7T, and 8T SRAM cells. The proposed SRAM minimizes leakage power, write power, and read power by 12.4%, 21.62%, and 29.06%. Furthermore, the proposed cell improves read and write noise margin by 57.19% and 19.96%, respectively, as compared to a conventional 6T SRAM. Again, the write energy consumption lowers to about 43.86× while read energy consumption 28.95× as compared to 10T SRAM.
Allogeneic CD20‐targeted γδ T cells exhibit innate and adaptive antitumor activities in preclinical B‐cell lymphoma models
Authors: Nishimoto Kevin P , Barca Taylor , Azameera Aruna , Makkouk Amani , Romero Jason M , Bai Lu , Brodey Mary M , Kennedy‐Wilde Jackie , Shao Hui , Papaioannou Stephanie , Doan Amy , Masri Cynthia , Hoang Ngoc T , Tessman Hayden , Ramanathan Vidhya Dhevi , Giner‐Rubio Ana , Delfino Frank , Sharma Kriti , Bray Kevin , Hoopes Matthew , Satpayev Daulet , Sengupta Ranjita , Herrman Marissa , Abbot Stewart E , Aftab Blake T , An Zili , Panuganti Swapna , Hayes Sandra M
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Autologous chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) αβ T‐cell therapies have demonstrated remarkable antitumor efficacy in patients with haematological malignancies; however, not all eligible cancer patients receive clinical benefit. Emerging strategies to improve patient access and clinical responses include using premanufactured products from healthy donors and alternative cytotoxic effectors possessing intrinsic tumoricidal activity as sources of CAR cell therapies. γδ T cells, which combine innate and adaptive mechanisms to recognise and kill malignant cells, are an attractive candidate platform for allogeneic CAR T‐cell therapy. Here, we evaluated the manufacturability and functionality of allogeneic peripheral blood‐derived CAR+ Vδ1 γδ T cells expressing a second‐generation CAR targeting the B‐cell‐restricted CD20 antigen.

Methods

Donor‐derived Vδ1 γδ T cells from peripheral blood were ex vivo‐activated, expanded and engineered to express a novel anti‐CD20 CAR. In vitro and in vivo assays were used to evaluate CAR‐dependent and CAR‐independent antitumor activities of CD20 CAR+ Vδ1 γδ T cells against B‐cell tumors.

Results

Anti‐CD20 CAR+ Vδ1 γδ T cells exhibited innate and adaptive antitumor activities, such as in vitro tumor cell killing and proinflammatory cytokine production, in addition to in vivo tumor growth inhibition of B‐cell lymphoma xenografts in immunodeficient mice. Furthermore, CD20 CAR+ Vδ1 γδ T cells did not induce xenogeneic graft‐versus‐host disease in immunodeficient mice.

Conclusion

These preclinical data support the clinical evaluation of ADI‐001, an allogeneic CD20 CAR+ Vδ1 γδ T cell, and a phase 1 study has been initiated in patients with B‐cell malignancies (NCT04735471).
Resolving stratigraphic architecture and constraining ages of paralic strata in a low‐accommodation setting, Firebag Tributary, McMurray Formation, Canada
Authors: Rinke‐Hardekopf Lucian , Dashtgard Shahin E. , MacEachern James A. , Gingras Murray K.
Published: February 2022

The McMurray Formation in McMurray Depocentre, Canada, is typically subdivided into stratigraphic units based on regionally mappable marine mudstones, the bases of which define flooding surfaces (bottom to top: Lower McMurray, C2, C1, B2, B1, A2, A1 depositional unit). However, the McMurray Formation comprises a variety of palaeoenvironments, with the north‐eastern Firebag Tributary hosting significant delta‐plain deposits in the Lower McMurray and B1 depositional units. Facies analysis of 60 cores and 4763 wireline logs was used to resolve the palaeoshoreline trajectory and stratigraphic architecture in Firebag Tributary. Of 14 identified facies, three delta‐plain facies reveal: (1) eluviated palaeosols, interpreted as shrublands and woodlands formed during base‐level fall; (2) gleyed palaeosols, interpreted as tidal marshes; and (3) coals formed in coastal mires, the two latter facies are interpreted to accumulate during base‐level rise. Eluviated palaeosols occur below the Lower McMurray coal seam, implying valley incision and a maximum regressive surface. Gleyed palaeosols underlying the coal seam atop the B1 depositional unit do not record base‐level fall. Wetting‐upward coals overlying either palaeosol facies indicate base‐level rise (i.e. major flooding surface). B1 depositional unit coals and gleyed palaeosols are overlain by shallow‐marine facies or are eroded by wave ravinement during transgression. Consequently, the tops of coals or gleyed palaeosols correlate to the bases of regional marine mudstones elsewhere in McMurray Depocentre. Stratigraphic cross sections showcase palaeoshoreline regression and transgression. During the Lower McMurray and B1 depositional units, widespread coals and palaeosols indicate the palaeoshoreline resided near the western edge of Firebag Tributary. Regression during C2 through B2 depositional units and A2 and A1 depositional units resulted in palaeoshorelines near the Alberta–Saskatchewan border. To complement a previously dated Lower McMurray ash (121.39 ± 0.2 Ma), a new high‐confidence maximum depositional age from ash in the B1 coal seam (115.09 ± 0.16 Ma) allows an estimate to be made of depositional duration, indicating depositional units represent ca 0.16 Myr.
The artemis package for environmental DNA analysis in R
Authors: Espe Matthew B. , Johnston Myfanwy , Blankenship Scott M. , Dean Cheryl A. , Bowen Mark D. , Schultz Andrew , Schumer Gregg
Published: February 2022

We introduce artemis, a new package for the R statistical programming environment designed to analyze quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) data from environmental DNA studies. The artemis package directly addresses several challenges for analyzing eDNA survey data, including the censorship of data generated by qPCR analysis. The performance of artemis models is compared with commonly used regression approaches using both simulated and experimental data. We demonstrate that the models in artemis have several favorable characteristics compared with standard regression approaches, yielding more accurate estimates, less bias, and better prediction performance while offering similar ease of use. Lastly, we discuss trade‐offs and considerations for choosing the most appropriate analysis approach for eDNA survey data.
Effect of implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators in patients with non‐ischaemic systolic heart failure and concurrent coronary atherosclerosis
Authors: Byrne Christina , Ahlehoff Ole , Elming Marie Bayer , Pedersen Frants , Pehrson Steen , Nielsen Jens C. , Eiskjær Hans , Videbæk Lars , Svendsen Jesper Hastrup , Haarbo Jens , Thøgersen Anna Margrethe , Køber Lars , Thune Jens Jakob
Published: February 2022

Aims

Prophylactic implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICD) reduce mortality in patients with ischaemic heart failure (HF), whereas the effect of ICD in patients with non‐ischaemic HF is less clear. We aimed to investigate the association between concomitant coronary atherosclerosis and mortality in patients with non‐ischaemic HF and the effect of ICD implantation in these patients.

Methods and results

Patients were included from DANISH (Danish Study to Assess the Efficacy of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators in Patients with Non‐Ischaemic Systolic Heart Failure on Mortality), randomizing patients to ICD or control. Study inclusion criteria for HF were left ventricular ejection fraction ≤ 35% and increased levels (>200 pg/mL) of N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide. Of the 1116 patients from DANISH, 838 (75%) patients had available data from coronary angiogram and were included in this subgroup analysis. We used Cox regression to assess the relationship between coronary atherosclerosis and mortality and the effect of ICD implantation. Of the included patients, 266 (32%) had coronary atherosclerosis. Of these, 216 (81%) had atherosclerosis without significant stenoses, and 50 (19%) had significant stenosis. Patients with atherosclerosis were significantly older {67 [interquartile range (IQR) 61–73] vs. 61 [IQR 54–68] years; P < 0.0001}, and more were men (77% vs. 70%; P = 0.03). During a median follow‐up of 64.3 months (IQR 47–82), 174 (21%) of the patients died. The effect of ICD on all‐cause mortality was not modified by coronary atherosclerosis [hazard ratio (HR) 0.94; 0.58–1.52; P = 0.79 vs. HR 0.82; 0.56–1.20; P = 0.30], P for interaction = 0.67. In univariable analysis, coronary atherosclerosis was a significant predictor of all‐cause mortality [HR, 1.41; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.04–1.91; P = 0.03]. However, this association disappeared when adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors (age, gender, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, and estimated glomerular filtration rate) (HR 1.05, 0.76–1.45, P = 0.76).

Conclusions

In patients with non‐ischaemic systolic heart failure, ICD implantation did not reduce all‐cause mortality in patients either with or without concomitant coronary atherosclerosis. The concomitant presence of coronary atherosclerosis was associated with increased mortality. However, this association was explained by other risk factors.
Tumor‐associated human dendritic cell subsets: Phenotype, functional orientation, and clinical relevance
Authors: Plesca Ioana , Müller Luise , Böttcher Jan P. , Medyouf Hind , Wehner Rebekka , Schmitz Marc
Published: February 2022

DCs play a pivotal role in orchestrating innate and adaptive antitumor immunity. Activated DCs can produce large amounts of various proinflammatory cytokines, initiate T‐cell responses, and exhibit direct cytotoxicity against tumor cells. They also efficiently enhance the antitumoral properties of NK cells and T lymphocytes. Based on these capabilities, immunogenic DCs promote tumor elimination and are associated with improved survival of patients. Furthermore, they can essentially contribute to the clinical efficacy of immunotherapeutic strategies for cancer patients. However, depending on their intrinsic properties and the tumor microenvironment, DCs can be rendered dysfunctional and mediate tolerance by producing immunosuppressive cytokines and activating Treg cells. Such tolerogenic DCs can foster tumor progression and are linked to poor prognosis of patients. Here, we focus on recent studies exploring the phenotype, functional orientation, and clinical relevance of tumor‐infiltrating conventional DC1, conventional DC2, plasmacytoid DCs, and monocyte‐derived DCs in translational and clinical settings. In addition, recent findings demonstrating the influence of DCs on the efficacy of immunotherapeutic strategies are summarized.
Designing Supramolecular Triaminoguanidine‐Based Cobalt(II) Complexes Inspired by Their Zinc(II) Analogs
Authors: Sturm Lisa , Becker Marcus , van Leusen Jan , Oppel Iris M.
Published: February 2022

Novel cobalt(II) containing compounds of tris‐(2‐pyridinylene‐N‐oxide)triaminoguanidine ligands L2− are presented: the supramolecular metallocycle [Co6(OOCMe)3(NCS)3L3]4 and the one‐dimensional coordination polymer {[Co3(μ‐OOCMe)3L]NO3}n. Analog zinc(II) complexes show similar to identical structures that are slightly influenced by different preferences regarding the coordination number. In the polymers, the coordination number is five, which is less common for zinc(II) and rare for cobalt(II). The compounds are characterized by single‐crystal as well as powder X‐ray diffraction, IR spectroscopy, and ESI mass spectrometry. Magnetic measurements revealed predominantly antiferromagnetic exchange interaction between the cobalt(II) centers linked by the triaminoguanidine backbone.
Passion fruit seed extract protects beta‐amyloid‐induced neuronal cell death in a differentiated human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cell model
Authors: Sato Akira , Tagai Nozomi , Ogino Yoko , Uozumi Haruka , Kawakami Shinpei , Yamamoto Takayuki , Tanuma Sei‐ichi , Maruki‐Uchida Hiroko , Mori Sadao , Morita Minoru
Published: February 2022

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with accompanying perceptive disorder. We previously reported that decreasing levels of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) promoted beta‐amyloid (Aβ)‐induced neuronal cell death in neuron‐like differentiated SH‐SY5Y (ndSH‐SY5Y) human neuroblastoma cells in an AD mimic cell model. We investigated the neuroprotective effects of passion fruit seed extract (PFSE) and one of the main stilbene compounds, piceatannol, in an AD cell model using ndSH‐SY5Y cells. Both PFSE and piceatannol were found to protect Aβ‐induced neurite fragmentation in the cell model (protection efficacy; 34% in PFSE and 36% in piceatannol). In addition, both PFSE and piceatannol suppress Aβ‐induced neuronal cell death in the cell model (inhibitory effect; 27% in PFSE and 32% in piceatannol). Our study is the first to report that piceatannol‐rich PFSE can repress Aβ‐induced neuronal cell death by protecting against neurite fragmentation in the AD human cell model. These findings suggest that piceatannol‐rich PFSE can be considered a potentially neuroprotective functional food for both prevention and treatment of AD.
Turbulent impinging jets on rough surfaces
Authors: Secchi Francesco , Häber Thomas , Gatti Davide , Schulz Sebastian , Trimis Dimosthenis , Suntz Rainer , Frohnapfel Bettina
Published: February 2022

This work presents direct numerical simulations (DNS) of a circular turbulent jet impinging on rough plates. The roughness is once resolved through an immersed boundary method (IBM) and once modeled through a parametric forcing approach (PFA) which accounts for surface roughness effects by applying a forcing term into the Navier–Stokes equations within a thin layer in the near‐wall region. The DNS with the IBM setup is validated using optical flow field measurements over a smooth and a rough plate with similar statistical surface properties. In the study, IBM‐resolved cases are used to show that the PFA is capable of reproducing mean flow features well at large wall‐normal distances, while less accurate predictions are observed in the near‐wall region. The demarcation between these two regions is approximately identified with the mean wall height of the surface roughness distribution. Based on the observed differences in the results between IBM‐ and PFA‐resolved cases, plausible future improvements of the PFA are suggested.
Early Palaeogene mafic–intermediate dykes, Robert Island, West Antarctica: Petrogenesis, zircon U–Pb geochronology, and tectonic significance
Authors: Zheng Guang‐Gao , Liu Xiaochun , Pei Junling , Zhao Yue , Chen Hong , Li Jianfeng
Published: February 2022

Geochemical, geochronological, and Lu–Hf isotopic data for mafic–intermediate dykes on Robert Island, West Antarctica, are systematically investigated in order to decipher their petrogenesis and the genetic relationship between the South Shetland Islands and the north‐western Antarctic Peninsula. These dykes are enriched in large‐ion lithophile elements with significantly negative Nb and Ta anomalies, and low (Hf/Sm)N and (Nb/La)N and high Ba/La and Ba/Th ratios, with high εHf(t) values of +8.2 to +14.2. They were derived from partial melting of depleted mantle metasomatized by slab‐derived fluids. Precise ages of 55–54 Ma for the dykes confirm the occurrence of Early Eocene magmatism on Robert Island, corresponding to the final peak of subduction‐related magmatism. The available data suggest that Early Palaeogene (62–54 Ma) igneous rocks on the South Shetland Islands and the north‐western Antarctic Peninsula are products of contemporaneous and different lithofacies magmatism with precursors originating from depleted mantle in a magmatic arc setting. Furthermore, the Early Palaeogene igneous activities were most likely associated with slab rollback and extension in fore‐arc regions resulting from the decreasing convergence rate for the subduction of the Phoenix Plate beneath the Antarctic Plate at ~60 Ma.
p21‐activated kinase 4 inhibition protects against liver ischemia/reperfusion injury: Role of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 phosphorylation
Authors: Mao Yuancheng , Han Chang Yeob , Hao Lihua , Lee Younho , Son Jung Beom , Choi Hwangeun , Lee Mi Rin , Yang Jae Do , Hong Suk Kyun , Suh Kyung‐Suk , Yu Hee Chul , Kim Nam Doo , Bae Eun Ju , Park Byung‐Hyun
Published: February 2022

Background and Aims

p21‐activated kinase 4 (PAK4), an oncogenic protein, has emerged as a promising target for anticancer drug development. Its role in oxidative stress conditions, however, remains elusive. We investigated the effects of PAK4 signaling on hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury.

Approach and Results

Hepatocyte‐ and myeloid‐specific Pak4 knockout (KO) mice and their littermate controls were subjected to a partial hepatic I/R (HIR) injury. We manipulated the catalytic activity of PAK4, either through genetic engineering (gene knockout, overexpression of wild‐type [WT] or dominant‐negative kinase) or pharmacological inhibitor, coupled with a readout of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) activity, to test the potential function of PAK4 on HIR injury. PAK4 expression was markedly up‐regulated in liver during HIR injury in mice and humans. Deletion of PAK4 in hepatocytes, but not in myeloid cells, ameliorated liver damages, as demonstrated in the decrease in hepatocellular necrosis and inflammatory responses. Conversely, the forced expression of WT PAK4 aggravated the pathological changes. PAK4 directly phosphorylated Nrf2 at T369, and it led to its nuclear export and proteasomal degradation, all of which impaired antioxidant responses in hepatocytes. Nrf2 silencing in liver abolished the protective effects of PAK4 deficiency. A PAK4 inhibitor protected mice from HIR injury.

Conclusions

PAK4 phosphorylates Nrf2 and suppresses its transcriptional activity. Genetic or pharmacological suppression of PAK4 alleviates HIR injury. Thus, PAK4 inhibition may represent a promising intervention against I/R‐induced liver injury.
A study of Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase rare variants in myeloid neoplasia
Authors: Gurnari Carmelo , Wahida Adam , Pagliuca Simona , Durmaz Arda , Zawit Misam , Haferlach Torsten , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P. , Visconte Valeria
Published: February 2022

Telomere dysfunctions are associated with several hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) malignancies. Recent findings have indicated that the occurrence of rare variants of unknown significance (VUS) in the Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase (TERT) gene influences the outcomes of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes undergoing allogeneic HSC transplantation. However, the role of TERT variants has been historically controversial as initially considered pathogenic variants (H412Y, A202T) presenting functional consequences, were found very frequent in general population questioning their pathogenicity and risk allele significance. Herein, we show that overall TERT VUS are non‐recurrent in myeloid disorders and cannot be considered risk alleles individually nor can their biological impact.
Surviving remotely: How job control and loneliness during a forced shift to remote work impacted employee work behaviors and well‐being
Authors: Becker William J. , Belkin Liuba Y. , Tuskey Sarah E. , Conroy Samantha A.
Published: February 2022

This paper investigates the impact of job control and work‐related loneliness on employee work behaviors and well‐being during the massive and abrupt move to remote work amid the COVID‐19 pandemic. We draw on job‐demands control and social baseline theory to link employee perceived job control and work‐related loneliness to emotional exhaustion and work‐life balance and posit direct and indirect effects on employee minor counterproductive work behaviors, depression, and insomnia. Using a two‐wave data collection with a sample of U.S. working adults to test our predictions, we find that high job control was beneficially related to emotional exhaustion and work‐life balance, while high work‐related loneliness showed detrimental relationships with our variables of interest. Moreover, we find that the beneficial impact of high perceived job control was conditional on individual segmentation preferences such that the effects were stronger when segmentation preference was low. Our research extends the literature on remote work, job control, and workplace loneliness. It also provides insights for human resource professionals to manage widespread remote work that is likely to persist long after the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Thermal structure controlled by morphometry and light attenuation across subtropical reservoirs
Authors: Liu Miao , Zhang Yunlin , Zhou Yongqiang , Shi Kun , Zhu Guangwei , Sun Xiao
Published: February 2022

Thermal stratification in lakes has multiple physical, chemical, and ecological implications. Previous studies have identified the driving factors of thermal stratification in tropical and high‐latitude lakes, but their relative contributions in forming thermal structure among different deep reservoirs have received little attention. Here, the water temperature profiles, light attenuation, water substances, morphometry, and wind speed in 15 deep reservoirs in the subtropical hilly area of eastern China were measured in August 2018 (during a stable stratified period). Mixed layer depth (MLD) was positively correlated with water depth, fetch and wind speed, and negatively correlated with light attenuation. Metalimnion thickness (MT) was positively correlated with water depth, and negatively with light attenuation. The result of the multi‐linear regression analysis shows that light attenuation can better explain the variation in MLD than reservoir morphometry and wind speed. Differences in MT among these reservoirs mainly relied on water depth and light attenuation variations. Our results quantize the effect of related factors in controlling thermal stratification across deep subtropical reservoirs, suggesting that continued decrease in transparency and wind speed will strongly affect reservoir stratification.
Fully coupled high‐resolution medium‐range forecasts: Evaluation of the hydrometeorological impact in an ensemble framework
Authors: Furnari Luca , Magnusson Linus , Mendicino Giuseppe , Senatore Alfonso
Published: February 2022

Fully coupled atmospheric‐hydrological models allow a more realistic representation of the land surface–boundary layer continuum, representing both high‐resolution land‐surface/subsurface water lateral redistribution and the related feedback towards the atmosphere. This study evaluates the potential contribution of the fully coupled approach in medium‐range mesoscale hydrometeorological ensemble forecasts. Previous studies have shown, for deterministic simulations that the effect of fully coupling for short‐range forecasts is minor compared to other sources of uncertainty. However, it becomes not negligible when increasing the forecast period. The paper presents a proof‐of‐concept consisting of a 7‐day ensemble (50 members from the ECMWF Ensemble Prediction System) forecast of a high impact event affecting the Calabrian peninsula (southern Italy, Mediterranean basin) on November 2019. The scope is to investigate how the impact of improved representation of the terrestrial water lateral transport in the weather research and forecasting (WRF)—hydro modelling system affects the water balance, focusing on the precipitation and the hydrological response, in terms of both soil moisture dynamics and streamflow in 14 catchments spanning over 42% of the region. The fully coupled approach led to an increase of surface soil moisture and latent heat flux from land in the days preceding the event, affecting the lower Planetary Boundary Layer. However, in cases when shoreward moisture transport from surrounding sea is the dominant process, only a weak signature of soil moisture contribution could be detected, resulting in only slightly higher precipitation forecast and not clear variation trend of peak flow, even though the latter variable increased up to 10% in some catchments. Overall, this study highlighted a remarkable performance of the medium‐range ensemble forecasts, suggesting a profitable use of the fully coupled approach for forecasting purposes in circumstances in which soil moisture dynamics is more relevant and needs to be better addressed.
Tracer‐aided modelling reveals quick runoff generation and young streamflow ages in a tropical rainforest catchment
Authors: Mayer‐Anhalt Leia , Birkel Christian , Sánchez‐Murillo Ricardo , Schulz Stephan
Published: February 2022

There is still limited understanding of where stream water originates, their flow paths, how water sources mix, and for how long water transits montane tropical catchments. Here, we used a simple gamma convolution integral model (GM), ensemble hydrograph separation (EHS) and a tracer‐aided model (TAM) to assess runoff generation, mixing processes and water ages in the pristine tropical rainforest Quebrada Grande catchment in Costa Rica. Model simulations are based on a four‐year record (2016–2019) of continuous hydrometric and stable isotope observations. Comparative model tests included multi‐objective calibration (2017–2019) and validation (2016) using stream discharge and isotope data as well as an independent model evaluation using groundwater and soil water isotope data. GM and TAM agreed on the dominance of young water in streamflow that was less than 95 days old for 75% of the study period. The EHS suggested a young water fraction threshold of 12 ± 2 days with a transit time distribution that approximates the best‐fit GM. These short water ages are the result of high annual rainfall even during drier years such as 2019 with 4300 mm/a and consistent quick near‐surface runoff generation with limited mixing. A supra‐regional loss (~55%) of likely older groundwater was detected. The TAM‐based hydrograph separation (streamflow KGE > 0.78, δ2H KGE > 0.90) suggested an average near‐surface water contribution of more than 60% to streamflow emphasizing the dominance of quick flow paths. This tropical rainforest represents one of the quickest streamflow responses of mostly young water of pristine catchments globally.
Partial root zone drying method of irrigation: A review
Authors: Sonawane Ashish Vasant , Shrivastava Prashant Kumar
Published: February 2022

Water availability has been a major constraint in crop production technology across the globe. The agricultural sector has been the largest consumer of fresh water for ages and accounts for about two‐thirds of the total fresh water used for human consumption. In the scenario of rapid population growth, the share of fresh water allocated to agriculture would get reduced to a great extent. Therefore, there is the ever‐increasing need to use the available water efficiently and precisely. It is a high priority to evolve new irrigation methods so that water use efficiency (WUE) can be maximized through optimum management of available irrigation water. Deficit irrigation (DI) is an optimization strategy that requires crops to intentionally endure a certain level of water deficit. This sometimes leads to a decrease in yield, however, with a significant increase in WUE. Partial root zone drying (PRD) is a modified version of DI, which has been practiced to improve WUE by controlling drought stress. In this method of irrigation, the spatial separation of dry and wet roots is maintained during the entire cropping season. The water stress developed in one part of the root zone generates chemical signals in the form of abscisic acid, which leads to partial closure of stomatal opening. Stomatal closure reduces the rate of transpiration, which in turn increases WUE. This paper is an effort to briefly discuss the concept of PRD and to review some important work carried out across the world.