bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are cyanobacteria a nearly immortal source of high market value compounds?
Authors: Macário Ines PE , Veloso Telma , Fernandes Andreia PM , Martins Margarida , Frankenbach Silja , Serôdio João , Gonçalves Fernando JM , Ventura Sónia PM , Pereira Joana L
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

When the human population increases, so does the need to explore a wider range of feedstocks and biomasses, such as cyanobacteria. However, a deeper understanding of the growth patterns and pigment production is required to support the selection of the most beneficial species and conditions for industrial production. The growth and pigment production (i.e., chlorophyll a and C‐phycocyanin) of three cyanobacterium species were evaluated following a three‐fold aim. The first goal was to compare among a species commonly selected for exploitation (Arthrospira platensis) and two alternative species (Anabaena cylindrica and Nostoc muscorum). The second goal was analyzing pigment production in the long‐term. The last goal involved comparing different methods (spectrophotometry and fluorimetry) to understand whether there is an appropriate proxy of biomass increase and pigment production that can be used for monitoring purposes.

RESULTS

All species showed high longevity and proved capable of growing for more than 100 days without any additional supplementation. However, the maximum quantum yield of PS II (Fv /Fm ) revealed that their photosynthetic efficiency varied over time with a clear decrease after 2 months. Pigment analysis showed a heterogeneous pattern during the growth periods of all three species that could only be captured by the parameter Fv /Fm, but the pattern was only present for A. cylindrica and N. muscorum in some stages of the culture period.

CONCLUSION

N. muscorum was found to be the best chlorophyll a and C‐phycocyanin producer, with the production peaking for all species at defined time periods within the growth profile. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Role of oxidative stress in modulating CHO cell culture performance: Impact on titer and quality attributes of a monoclonal antibody therapeutic
Authors: Kaur Rajinder , Rathore Anurag S.
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

The enormous success of antibody therapeutics has resulted in attempts to enhance protein expression which requisites high energy demand which leads to oxidative stress as characterized by significant levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), disturbing many cellular functions. This study delineates the mechanistic role of oxidants and ROS scavengers in relation to cell viability, apoptosis and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), as well as critical quality attributes such as charge heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Addition of ROS scavengers such as glutathione, N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) and ascorbic acid to culture result in decreased levels of ROS (52%), increased MMP (47%) and viable cell populations (42%), as well as reduced cell apoptosis (69%) and a decrease in lysosome activity (38%). These effects rescue cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and DNA fragmentation during the production phase. Cells use the peroxiredoxin reductive pathway for regulation of ROS levels in response to oxidative stress environments. Enzymes involved in ROS reduction were found to be significantly high in antioxidant‐treated cells. Treatment with oxidants resulted in decreased titer (47%) and an increase in acidic species (18%), whereas addition of antioxidants resulted in enhancement of titer (38%) as well as abundance in basic variants (24%) of recombinant IgG1.

CONCLUSION

Antioxidants improve cell culture performance by alleviating the viable cell pool through activating the intracellular reductive mechanism for maintaining high ∆ᴪm, thus reducing apoptosis and enhancing antibody production. Media supplementation with a combination of antioxidants during the production phase is likely to enhance antibody titer and quality. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The effect of perinatal interventions on parent anxiety, infant socio‐emotional development and parent‐infant relationship outcomes: A systematic review
Authors: Smith Celia G. , Jones Emily J. H. , Wass Sam V. , Jacobs Dean , Fitzpatrick Cassie , Charman Tony
Published: November 2022

Background

Infants of parents with perinatal anxiety are at elevated likelihood of experiencing disruption in the parent‐infant relationship, as well as difficulties with socio‐emotional functioning in later development. Interventions delivered in the perinatal period have the potential to protect the early dyadic relationship and support infants’ ongoing development and socio‐emotional outcomes. This review primarily aimed to examine the efficacy of perinatal interventions on parent anxiety, infant socio‐emotional development/temperament, and parent‐infant relationship outcomes. Secondarily, the review sought to understand how interventions focused principally on one member of the dyad affected the outcomes of the other, and which intervention components were common to successful interventions.

Method

Five electronic databases as well as manual search procedures were used to identify randomised controlled trials according to a PICO eligibility criteria framework. Risk of bias assessments were undertaken, and a narrative synthesis was conducted. The review was pre‐registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021254799).

Results

Twelve studies were analysed in total, including five interventions focused on the adult, and seven interventions focused on the infant, or the infant’s relationship with their parent. Interventions incorporating cognitive behavioural strategies for affective disorders showed reductions in parent anxiety (N = 3), and interventions focusing on altering distorted maternal internal representations showed positive change in parent‐child dyadic interactions, and infant outcomes (N = 2). Evidence that interventions focused on one partner of the dyad led to improved outcomes for the other partner was limited. However, evidence was of mixed methodological quality.

Conclusions

It is important to integrate both parents and infants into treatment programmes for perinatal anxiety. Implications for clinical practice and future intervention trials are discussed.
Characterization and analysis of linear epitopes corresponding to SARS‐CoV‐2 outbreak in Jilin Province, China
Authors: Gao Wenying , Li Zhaolong , Guan Qingtian , Cui Wenzhe , Zheng Baishong , Ding Qiang , Lv Guoyue , Xu Jiancheng , Zhang Wenyan
Published: November 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and its variants have caused hundreds of thousands of deaths and shown serious social influence worldwide. Jilin Province, China, experienced the first wave of the outbreak from December 2020 to February 2021. Here, we analyzed the genomic characteristics of the SARS‐CoV‐2 outbreak in Jilin province using a phylogeographic tree and found that clinical isolates belonged to the B.1 lineage, which was considered to be the ancestral lineage. Several dominant SARS‐CoV‐2 specific linear B cell epitopes that reacted with the convalescent sera were also analysed and identified using a peptide microarray composed of S, M, and E proteins. Moreover, the serum of convalescent patients infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 showed neutralizing activity against four widely spreading SARS‐CoV‐2 variants; however, significant differences were observed in neutralizing activities against different SARS‐CoV‐2 variants. These data provide important information on genomic characteristics, linear epitopes, and neutralizing activity of SARS‐CoV‐2 outbreak in Jilin Province, China, which may aid in understanding disease patterns and regional aspects of the pandemic.
Effect of mobile‐phase modifiers on the enantioselective retention behavior of methyl mandelate with an amylose 3,5‐dimethylphenylcarbamate chiral stationary phase under reversed‐phase conditions
Authors: Tsui Hung‐Wei , Hsieh Ching‐Hung , Zhan Chao‐Fu
Published: November 2022

In this study, methanol, ethanol, n‐propyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and tert‐butanol were used as organic modifiers in reversed‐phase mode chiral liquid‐chromatography to systematically investigate the effects of mobile phase components on the enantioselective retention behavior of methyl mandelate with immobilized amylose 3,5‐dimethylphenylcarbamate‐based sorbent called Chiralpak IA. A two‐site enantioselective model was used to obtain information on the recognition mechanisms by observing the dependence of the enantioselectivity and retention factor difference on the modifier content. Similar enantioselective retention behaviors were observed for all modifiers, and characteristic modifier concentration points (PL, PM, and PH) were identified. At modifier concentrations up to PM, the weakened hydrophobic environment resulted in polymer structural relaxation, which changed the recognition mechanisms. By contrast, at concentrations beyond PH, considerably different enantioselectivity behaviors were observed, indicating that the existence of dipole‐dipole interaction, which was stronger at higher modifier concentrations, contributed to the retention mechanisms. The concentrations at which these characteristic points occurred were dependent on the carbon number of the modifier molecule. Modifiers with more carbon numbers facilitated the transition in the enantioselective behaviors. These results demonstrated that the proposed method can provide a physically consistent quantitative description of enantioselective retention behavior in reversed‐phase mode.
Efficacy Assessment and Analysis of Related Factors of Ultrasound‐Guided Percutaneous Lauromacrogol Injection for Cystic Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Gao Kan , Dai Weide , Wang Feiliang , He Shurong
Published: November 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the short‐term and long‐term efficacy of sclerotherapy for cystic thyroid nodules.

Methods

Ninety‐nine cystic thyroid nodules that underwent ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration biopsy, detection of thyroglobulin in fine needle aspirate (Tg‐FNA), and ultrasound‐guided percutaneous lauromacrogol injection were retrospectively enrolled from July 2018 to July 2021. All nodules were followed up at 3 and 12 months after the procedure. Factors related to lauromacrogol injection efficacy, including initial volume, vascularity, pathological types, and Tg‐FNA level, were analyzed. The nodules were classified as non‐effective (VRR <50%) and effective groups (VRR ≥50%) at 3 months to evaluate short‐term prognosis, and non‐cured (VRR <90%) and cured groups (VRR ≥90%) at 12 months to evaluate long‐term prognosis.

Results

The volume of cystic thyroid nodules tended to shrink during follow‐up. The resolution rate was 79.80% (79/99) at 3 months and 96.91% (94/97) at 12 months. The cure rate was 80.41% (78/97) at 12 months. Independent factors for the long‐term prognosis included Tg‐FNA level and vascularity (P  < .05). Only Tg‐FNA level was an independent factor for the short‐term prognosis (P  < .05). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for assessing the efficacy at 3 months was 0.79 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.65–0.89). With a cutoff value of Tg‐FNA 126.92 ng/mL, the specificity was 0.70, and the sensitivity was 0.85.

Conclusions

Ultrasound‐guided percutaneous lauromacrogol injection is an effective treatment option for cystic thyroid nodules. It is less effective in viscous or vascular predominantly cystic nodules.
Nest survival and productivity of translocated and resident burrowing owls in Arizona
Authors: Doublet Dejeanne , Johnson David H. , Abadi Fitsum , Desmond Martha J.
Published: November 2022

Development activities associated with urbanization can directly displace animals, causing high mortality and dispersal rates. Wildlife managers have attempted to mitigate the impacts of development on burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia), a species susceptible to ground‐disturbing activities, by translocating them away from areas slated for development. In this study, we evaluated the effects of translocation on burrowing owl reproduction by comparing nest survival and productivity of owls involved in an ongoing translocation program in Arizona, USA, with that of resident owls. We used nest survival models to evaluate differences in nest survival and generalized linear models with Poisson error to assess differences in productivity. In 2017, cumulative nest survival (CNS) was lower among current‐year translocated owls (i.e., owls translocated within the last year; CNS = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.18, 0.51) compared to non‐translocated resident owls (0.83, 95% CI = 0.71, 0.94), but CNS was similar between previously translocated owls (i.e., those translocated >1 yr ago, CNS = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.64, 0.98) and residents. Likewise, in 2018, CNS was lower for current‐year translocated owls (CNS = 0.12, 95% CI = 0.00, 0.24) compared to residents (CNS = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.50, 0.87) and previously translocated owls (CNS = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.40, 0.90). Productivity was significantly lower for current‐year translocated owls ( = 0.5 fledglings/nest) compared to residents ( = 2.4 fledglings/nest) and previously translocated owls ( = 1.5 fledglings/nest) across sites and years. With the current methods of translocation, owls had poor reproductive success in the first year after release, but if they survived 2 years after release, they had similar nest survival and productivity compared to residents. Our results demonstrate that the current practice of releasing translocated burrowing owls in the Phoenix, Arizona area during the breeding season depresses reproduction and should be substantially changed. Nest survival was low and this was mainly attributed to nest establishment of translocated owls within release tents (acclimation structures used in translocations that involve soft release) where 85% of nests failed following tent removal. Translocation approaches that reflect a closer fit to the timing and behavior of the species should be tested to determine whether they result in better success. In particular, future studies should examine the translocation results of releasing owls as male‐female pairs or single birds during the nonbreeding period.
Synthesis of Novel (bis‐)1,5‐Disubstituted‐1H‐tetrazole‐Decorated Monomers and Their Respective Polymers via Thiol‐ene Polymerization
Authors: Akdemir Meryem S. , Simian Marina , Theato Patrick , Mutlu Hatice
Published: November 2022

Over the years, nitrogen‐rich functional groups like tetrazole and its derivatives have received increasing interest in the chemistry of small molecules. There is a continuously growing interest in polymers decorated with nitrogen for potential biomedical applications because of their broad range of biological properties, such as being antibacterial, anticarcinogenic, and anti‐inflammatory. On this premise, a new synthesis route is reported for nitrogen‐decorated polymers via the combination of Ugi‐azide four‐multicomponent reaction (UA‐4MCR) and thiol‐ene polymerization. Accordingly, α,ω‐diene monomers decorated with (bis‐)1,5‐disubstituted‐1H‐tetrazoles (bis‐1,5‐DS‐Ts) are synthesized by using the UA‐4MCR. Subsequently, the light‐induced thiol‐ene polymerization facilitates the efficient synthesis of novel tetrazole‐decorated polymers with apparent number average molecular mass (Mn) up to 62 000 g mol−1, which are characterized for their chemical, thermal, and optical properties. The comprehensive characterization of the synthesized polymers is paving the way toward a wealth of opportunities, ranging from biomaterials to energy storage−relevant materials.
Holothuria leucospilota Polysaccharides Improve Immunity and the Gut Microbiota in Cyclophosphamide‐Treated Immunosuppressed Mice
Authors: Zhao Fuqiang , Ma Tingting , Zhang Xin , Zhao Qiancheng , Zhu Kexue , Cao Jun , Liu Zhongyuan , Shen Xuanri , Li Chuan
Published: November 2022

Scope

Immunosuppression is one of the major risk factors for a series of diseases, such as tumor, rheumatoid arthritis, and microbial infection. Various natural products have attracted wide attention due to their immunomodulatory activities. Herein, the study investigates the regulation of Holothuria leucospilota polysaccharides (HLP) in immunosuppressed mice.

Methods and results

Eight‐week‐old female BALB/c mice are injected intraperitoneally with cyclophosphamide (80 mg kg−1 body weight day−1) to establish the immunosuppressive model. After 12 days of HLP treatment, the immune organ indexes, serum cytokines, and immunoglobulin levels are significantly increased in immunosuppressed mice (p < 0.05). Real‐time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analysis find that HLP improves the immune factors, T‐cell markers, and Toll‐like receptors (TLR) pathway‐related proteins expression. Simultaneously, HLP significantly increases the short‐chain fatty acids concentration and regulates the gut microbiota composition (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the metagenomics analysis shows that HLP increases the levels of functional genes involved in amino acid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and growth activity of the gut microbiota.

Conclusion

HLP intervention improves the mice's immune function, and the beneficial effects are closely associated with intestinal homeostasis regulation and TLR pathway activation. This study suggests the potential for HLP as prebiotics in novel immunopotentiators development.
The effects of endocrine‐disrupting chemicals on ovarian‐ and ovulation‐related fertility outcomes
Authors: Land Katie L. , Miller Frances G. , Fugate Ava C. , Hannon Patrick R.
Published: November 2022

Exposure to endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is unavoidable, which represents a public health concern given the ability of EDCs to target the ovary. However, there is a large gap in the knowledge about the impact of EDCs on ovarian function, including the process of ovulation. Defects in ovulation are the leading cause of infertility in women, and EDC exposures are contributing to the prevalence of infertility. Thus, investigating the effects of EDCs on the ovary and ovulation is an emerging area for research and is the focus of this review. The effects of EDCs on gametogenesis, uterine function, embryonic development, and other aspects of fertility are not addressed to focus on ovarian‐ and ovulation‐related fertility issues. Herein, findings from epidemiological and basic science studies are summarized for several EDCs, including phthalates, bisphenols, per‐ and poly‐fluoroalkyl substances, flame retardants, parabens, and triclosan. Epidemiological literature suggests that exposure is associated with impaired fecundity and in vitro fertilization outcomes (decreased egg yield, pregnancies, and births), while basic science literature reports altered ovarian follicle and corpora lutea numbers, altered hormone levels, and impaired ovulatory processes. Future directions include identification of the mechanisms by which EDCs disrupt ovulation leading to infertility, especially in women.
Use of therapeutic drug monitoring to characterize cefepime‐related neurotoxicity
Authors: Venugopalan Veena , Casaus Danielle , Kainz Leonie , Slaton Cara N. , Hurst Natalie , Bruzzone Maria , Hu Calvin , Sword Gabriel , Cherabuddi Kartikeya , Iovine Nicole , Liu Jiajun , Scheetz Marc H. , Rhodes Nathaniel , Maranchick Nicole , Peloquin Charles A. , Klinker Kenneth , Alshaer Mohammad H.
Published: November 2022

Study Objectives

Data evaluating cefepime thresholds associated with neurotoxicity remain limited. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the incidence of cefepime‐related neurotoxicity (CRN) in patients with plasma cefepime concentrations, assess the relationship between cefepime exposure and CRN, investigate clinical factors associated with CRN, and describe electroencephalogram (EEG) abnormalities in CRN.

Design

This was a retrospective study of adult inpatients admitted between 2016 and 2018 who received cefepime therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). Potential CRN cases were identified utilizing a standard definition. The primary outcomes of the study were to determine the incidence of CRN and evaluate the relationship between cefepime trough concentrations, the average daily AUC, and neurotoxicity. Bayesian posteriors were generated for each patient using a cefepime pharmacokinetic (PK) model, and the mean daily area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) was calculated. Multiple regression was performed to assess the association between CRN, cefepime PK, and clinical predictors of neurotoxicity.

Main Results

Four hundred eighty‐one patients with 503 hospital encounters received cefepime TDM and were included in the analysis. The incidence of CRN was 4.4% (22/503). Patients with CRN had a higher incidence of renal dysfunction, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus compared to patients without CRN (non‐NT). The mean cefepime trough concentration was significantly greater in the CRN patients than in the non‐NT group (61.8 ± 33.7 vs. 30 ± 27.7 mg/L, respectively, p = 0.0002). Cefepime trough concentration and renal dysfunction were independently associated with increased risk of CRN in the adjusted multiple regression model. Moderate generalized slowing of the background rhythm was the most common EEG pattern associated with CRN. Delaying cefepime TDM greater than 72 h after the initiation of cefepime was associated with a 3‐fold increased risk of CRN.

Conclusion

Cefepime should be used cautiously in hospitalized patients with renal dysfunction due to the risk of neurotoxicity. Dose optimization utilizing TDM early in cefepime treatment may minimize adverse effects and improve patient safety.
Removing race and body surface area indexation for estimated kidney function based drug dosing: Aminoglycosides as justification of these principles
Authors: Pai Manjunath P. , Sitaruno Sirima , Abdelnabi Mohamed
Published: November 2022

Study Objective

The use of race in medicine can contribute to health inequity. Updated equations for estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) without race have been published. Likewise, de‐indexation of eGFR to body surface area (BSA) has been recommended by regulatory guidance for drug dosing in renal impairment. Clinical data justifying these recommendations for drug dosing are sparse. We examined the gain or loss of precision in drug dosing with estimated creatinine clearance (eCLcr) and eGFR using serum creatinine (eGFRcr) with and without race and BSA indexation by evaluating the population pharmacokinetics of the aminoglycosides as a classic drug class to probe kidney function.

Design

Medical records from adult patients treated with gentamicin or tobramycin over a 13‐year period were queried. Population pharmacokinetic analyses were performed using a 1‐compartment base structural model. Models compared body size descriptors as covariates of the volume of distribution (V). Estimated creatinine clearance and eGFRcr using multiple contemporary equations with and without BSA indexation were tested as covariates of clearance (CL).

Main Results

The final data set included 2968 patients treated with either gentamicin (20.2%) or tobramycin (79.8%). Patients self‐identified as Caucasian (82%), African‐American (10%), or other. The median [5th, 95th percentile] weight and BSA were 80.5 [49.4, 136] kg and 1.94 [1.48, 2.56] m2, respectively. Models of eCLcr and eGFRcr without indexation to BSA had a better model fit than eGFRcr indexed to BSA for aminoglycoside CL. The 2021 Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology collaboration (CKD‐EPI) eGFRcr equation (no race, no BSA indexation) provided a comparable model fit to the 2009 CKD‐EPI eGFRcr equation (with race, no BSA indexation) for aminoglycoside CL.

Conclusions

Race is not a relevant covariate of aminoglycoside CL. The 2021 CKD‐EPI eGFR equation without race and BSA indexation is a better method for gentamicin and tobramycin CL estimation. Confirmation of these results for other drugs can support the harmonization of dosing by kidney function.
iNSP‐GCAAP: Identifying nonclassical secreted proteins using global composition of amino acid properties
Authors: Do Trang T. T. , Nguyen‐Vo Thanh‐Hoang , Pham Hung T. , Trinh Quang H. , Nguyen Binh P.
Published: November 2022

Nonclassical secreted proteins (NSPs) refer to a group of proteins released into the extracellular environment under the facilitation of different biological transporting pathways apart from the Sec/Tat system. As experimental determination of NSPs is often costly and requires skilled handling techniques, computational approaches are necessary. In this study, we introduce iNSP‐GCAAP, a computational prediction framework, to identify NSPs. We propose using global composition of a customized set of amino acid properties to encode sequence data and use the random forest (RF) algorithm for classification. We used the training dataset introduced by Zhang et al. (Bioinformatics, 36(3), 704–712, 2020) to develop our model and test it with the independent test set in the same study. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve on that test set was 0.9256, which outperformed other state‐of‐the‐art methods using the same datasets. Our framework is also deployed as a user‐friendly web‐based application to support the research community to predict NSPs.
Synaptic Modulation of Conductivity and Magnetism in a CoPt‐Based Electrochemical Transistor
Authors: Li Shengyao , Miao Bojun , Wang Xueyan , Teo Siew Lang , Lin Ming , Zhu Qiang , Piramanayagam S. N. , Renshaw Wang X.
Published: November 2022

Among various types of neuromorphic devices toward artificial intelligence, the electrochemical synaptic transistor emerges, in which the channel conductance is modulated by the insertion of ions according to the history of gate voltage across the electrolyte. Despite the striking progress in exploring novel channel materials, few studies report on the ferromagnetic metal‐based synaptic transistors, limiting the development of spin‐based neuromorphic devices. Herein, synaptic modulation of both conductivity and magnetism based on an electrochemical transistor with a metallic channel of ferromagnetic CoPt alloy is presented. Its essential synaptic functionalities in the transistor are demonstrated, including depression and potentiation of synaptic weight and paired‐pulse facilitation (PPF). Then, short‐to‐long‐term plasticity transition induced by different gate parameters, such as amplitude, duration, and frequency, is shown. Furthermore, the device presents multilevel and reversible nonvolatile states in both conductivity and coercivity. The results demonstrate simultaneous modulation of conductivity and magnetism, paving the way for building future spin‐based multifunctional synaptic devices.
Isolation and structural characterization of two novel oxidative degradation products of losartan potassium active pharmaceutical ingredient using advanced analytical techniques
Authors: Singamsetti JCMKNN Murty , Gandham Himabindhu , Geereddy Mahesh Kumar Reddy , Kaliyaperumal Muralidharan , Doddipalla Raju , Rumalla Chidananda Swamy , Jayanti NSRC Murty
Published: November 2022

Rationale

Losartan potassium (losartan) is the most frequently utilized antihypertensive medication in the world. However, partial oxidation of losartan produces toxic by‐products that could be harmful to living organisms. Therefore, it is necessary to degrade the losartan and identify the potential toxic oxidative degradation products to minimize their formation during manufacturing, formulation, storage, and packing conditions.

Methods

Oxidative degradation experiments of losartan were performed according to ICH guidelines. The degradation products were detected using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis, isolated by using preparative HPLC, and identified by using high‐resolution mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic techniques.

Results

The degradation products (DP‐1, DP‐2, and DP‐3) were identified as (((2'‐(2H‐tetrazol‐5‐yl)‐[1,1'‐biphenyl]‐4‐yl)methyl)amino)‐2‐oxoethylpentanoate, 5‐(4'‐((2 butyl‐4‐chloro‐5‐(hydroxymethyl)‐1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)methyl)‐[1,1'‐biphenyl]‐2‐yl)‐1H tetrazol‐1‐ol, and 5‐(4'‐((2‐butyl‐4‐chloro‐5‐(hydroxymethyl)‐1H‐imidazol‐1 yl)methyl)‐[1,1'‐biphenyl]‐2‐yl)‐2H‐tetrazol‐2‐ol, respectively.

Conclusions

Forced degradation of losartan potassium API under oxidative condition indicates the formation of two major novel oxidative degradation products (DP‐2 and DP‐3) and one minor known degradation product (DP‐1).Preparative HPLC used for the isolation of the resultant DPs and their structures were successfully established using UHPLC–MS, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HSQC, HMBC, and HRMS spectroscopic techniques.
Subgraph probability of random graphs with specified degrees and applications to chromatic number and connectivity
Authors: Gao Pu , Ohapkin Yuval
Published: November 2022

Given a graphical degree sequence , let denote a uniformly random graph on vertex set where vertex has degree for every . We give upper and lower bounds on the joint probability of an arbitrary set of edges in , and we link these probability estimates to the corresponding probabilities in the configuration model. Then we show that many existing results of in the literature can be significantly improved with simpler proofs, by applying this new probabilistic tool. One example we give concerns the chromatic number of . In another application, we use these joint probabilities to study the connectivity of . Under some rather mild condition on —in particular, if where is the maximum component of —we fully characterize the connectivity phase transition of . We also give sufficient conditions for being connected when is unrestricted.
Thermal Stable High‐Efficiency Copper Screen Printed Back Contact Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Ning , Rudolph Dominik , Peter Christoph , Zeman Miro , Isabella Olindo , Rosen Yitzchak (Isaac) , Grouchko Michael , Shochet Ofer , Mihailetchi Valentin D.
Published: November 2022

The high usage of silver in industrial solar cells may limit the growth of the solar industry. One solution is to replace Ag with copper. A screen printable Cu paste is used herein to metallize industrial interdigitated back contact (IBC) solar cells. A novel metallization structure is proposed for making solar cells. Cu paste is applied to replace the majority of the Ag used in IBC cells as busbars and fingers. Cu paste is evaluated for use as fingers, and solar cells are made to test conversion efficiency and reliability. The Cu paste achieves comparably low resistivity, and Cu paste printed cells demonstrate similar efficiency to Ag paste printed cells, with an average efficiency of 23%, and only 4.5 mg W−1of Ag usage. Also, the solar cells are stable and no Cu in‐diffusion is observed under damp heat (85 °C, 85% relative humidity) and thermal stress (200 °C) for 1000 h, respectively. All processes used in this study can be carried out with industrial equipment. These findings reveal a new application for Cu pastes and point to a new direction for reducing Ag utilization and cost.
Global distribution of microplastic contaminants in aquatic environments and their remediation strategies
Authors: Tirkey Astha , Pandey Mohineeta , Tiwari Ankesh , Sahu Roshan Lal , Kukkar Deepak , Dubey Rashmi , Kim Ki‐Hyun , Pandey Sudhir Kumar
Published: November 2022

This review describes the occurrence and distribution of microplastics in freshwater and marine environments in recent years (2017–2022). Use of microplastics often results in contamination of aquatic environments, threatens biodiversity, and creates the need for environmental remediation. Such remediation strategies can involve primary, secondary, and tertiary treatments. Tertiary treatment is a frequent research subject due to its high efficiency and the possibility for advancements and enhancements. This study discusses tertiary treatments with remediation efficiencies of 95% and greater and their advantages, disadvantages, and future perspectives. Biochar‐mediated remediation of microplastics is an effective method that may be able to achieve efficiencies approaching 100%. The study concludes by exploring methods of removing microplastics, including constructed wetlands and biochar, which offer high efficiency.

Practitioner Points

Tertiary treatments are an effective microplastic remediation strategy applicable succeeding secondary or primary treatments or as an individual remediation strategy.

Biochar is a highly efficient adsorbent for microplastic remediation from aquatic environment with eco‐friendly aspect and reusability.

Modifications in tertiary treatments and enhancement in remediation efficiency are still a subject of research for future studies.
Using space to event modeling to estimate density of multiple species in northeastern Washington
Authors: McMurry Sierra , Moeller Anna K. , Goerz James , Robinson Hugh S.
Published: November 2022

Concurrent monitoring of multiple species with a single study design can be an efficient use of time and financial resources. Using camera traps to estimate density or abundance of multiple species is only possible if the study design captures photographs of all target species in an unbiased manner. We used camera trap data originally collected for a different purpose and applied the Space to Event (STE) model to estimate density of multiple species simultaneously. We had sufficient data to estimate densities of moose (Alces alces), black bear (Ursus americanus), mountain lions (Puma concolor), wolves (Canis lupus), and deer (white‐tailed deer [Odocoileus virginianus] and mule deer [O. hemionus] combined). Our estimated densities were lower than those derived from other methods in the study area, possibly due to the lack of a sampling design specific to STE. However, our estimates were generally comparable to published density estimates from across the species' range. Our approach allowed us to estimate abundance and density for each species with the same effort required to estimate abundance of a single species. Our results suggest that with an appropriate study design, STE could be an effective, efficient, low cost and non‐invasive method for estimating densities of multiple unmarked species using a single camera array.
Secure and Efficient Implementation of Electronic Money
Authors: Buldas Ahto , Draheim Dirk , Saarepera Märt
Published: November 2022

During the last years, central banks have discussed possible use of central bank digital currencies (CBDC) – electronic cash. Besides the financial and economic factors also the security and scalability of technical implementation of CBDC have been studied. Blockchain technology provides high level of security independent of the technical infrastructure and enables central banks to outsource most of the CBDC operations to the private sector while still having full control over the total amount of CBDC in circulation. Scalability of blockchain solutions depends on the possibility of decomposing (sharding) the blockchain. Electronic money and payments can be represented and organized in several ways, including accounts, bills/coins, and also unspent transaction outputs (UTXOs). We show how the representation of money and payments influences the existence of secure and decomposable blockchain implementations of electronic money. We show that the bill money scheme can be securely and efficiently implemented as sharded blockchains.
Rényi entropy and negativity for massless complex boson at conformal interfaces and junctions
Authors: Capizzi Luca , Murciano Sara , Calabrese Pasquale
Published: November 2022

Abstract

We consider the ground state of a theory composed byMspecies of massless complex bosons in one dimension coupled together via a conformal interface. We compute both the Rényi entropy and the negativity of a generic partition of wires, generalizing the approach developed in a recent work for free fermions. These entanglement measures show a logarithmic growth with the system size, and the universal prefactor depends both on the details of the interface and the bipartition. We test our analytical predictions against exact numerical results for the harmonic chain.
Impact of Lorentz violation on anomalous magnetic moments of charged leptons
Authors: Crivellin Andreas , Kirk Fiona , Schreck Marco
Published: November 2022

Abstract

We address the question whether a violation of Lorentz symmetry can explain the tension between the measurement and the Standard-Model prediction of the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon, (g −2)μ, and whether it can significantly impact the one of the electron, (g— 2)e. While anisotropic Lorentz-violating effects are, in general, expected to produce sidereal oscillations in observables, isotropic Lorentz violation (LV) in the charged-lepton sector could also feed into (g— 2)e,μ. However, we find that this type of Lorentz violation, parametrised via a dim-4 field operator of the Standard-Model Extension (SME), is already strongly constrained by the absence of vacuum Čerenkov radiation and photon decay. In particular, the observations of very-high-energetic astrophysical photons at LHAASO and of high-energetic electrons (muons) by the LHC (IceCube) place the most stringent two-sided bounds on the relevant SME coefficients$$ \overset{\circ }{c} $$c∘(e)($$ \overset{\circ }{c} $$c∘(μ)). Therefore, any explanation of the tension in (g −2)μvia isotropic Lorentz violation of the minimal spin-degenerate SME is excluded, and the possible size of its impact on (g −2)eis very limited.
The charged Higgs from the Bottom-Up: probing flavor at the LHC
Authors: Desai Nishita , Mariotti Alberto , Tabet Mustafa , Ziegler Robert
Published: November 2022

Abstract

We systematically study model-independent constraints on the three generic charged Higgs couplings to b-quarks and up-type quarks. While existing LHC searches have focussed on the tb coupling, we emphasize that the LHC plays a crucial role in probing also ub and cb couplings, since constraints from flavor physics are weak. In particular we propose various new searches that can significantly extend the present reach on the parameter space by: i) looking for light charged Higgses that decay into ub-quarks, ii) probing charged Higgs couplings to light and top quarks using multi-b-jet signatures, iii) looking for single b-quarks in low-mass dijet searches, iv) searching for charge asymmetries induced by charged Higgs production via ub couplings.
Michel parameters in the presence of massive Dirac and Majorana neutrinos
Authors: Márquez Juan Manuel , Castro Gabriel López , Roig Pablo
Published: November 2022

Abstract

We analyse the effects of Dirac and Majorana neutrinos on leptonic decays of muon and tau leptons using the most general four-lepton effective interaction Hamiltonian of dimension six. We calculate the specific energy and angular distribution of the final charged lepton, including the polarizations of the initial and final charged leptons. We discuss the new generalized Michel parameters and focus on the effects of the heavy neutrino masses that would lead to sizable contributions on scenarios where the new sterile neutrinos have non-negligible mixing. Specifically, the most promising scenario is found for the case of τ decay with one heavy final-state neutrino with a mass around 102 − 103 MeV, where the linear term suppression could be of order 10−4, low enough to be measured in current and forthcoming experiments.
Gauge/Bethe correspondence from quiver BPS algebras
Authors: Galakhov Dmitry , Li Wei , Yamazaki Masahito
Published: November 2022

Abstract

We study the Gauge/Bethe correspondence for two-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (2, 2) supersymmetric quiver gauge theories associated with toric Calabi-Yau three-folds, whose BPS algebras have recently been identified as the quiver Yangians. We start with the crystal representations of the quiver Yangian, which are placed at each site of the spin chain. We then construct integrable models by combining the single-site crystals into crystal chains by a coproduct of the algebra, which we determine by a combination of representation-theoretical and gauge-theoretical arguments. For non-chiral quivers, we find that the Bethe ansatz equations for the crystal chain coincide with the vacuum equation of the quiver gauge theory, thus confirming the corresponding Gauge/Bethe correspondence. For more general chiral quivers, however, we find obstructions to the R-matrices satisfying the Yang-Baxter equations and the unitarity conditions, and hence to their corresponding Gauge/Bethe correspondence. We also discuss trigonometric (quantum toroidal) versions of the quiver BPS algebras, which correspond to three-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 gauge theories and arrive at similar conclusions. Our findings demonstrate that there are important subtleties in the Gauge/Bethe correspondence, often overlooked in the literature.
Additive manufacturing process design for complex aircraft components
Authors: Dogea Ramona , Yan Xiu T. , Millar Richard
Published: November 2022

The process of metal additive manufacturing (AM) is now widely used in fabricating complex parts in today’s industry. The scope of this paper is to redesign a manufacturing process for complex aircraft components using wing ribs as example by considering embedded Internet of Things (IoT) sensory capability that can be used in an Industry 4.0 ecosystem for moving away from a condition-based preventive maintenance system to a data-driven predictive maintenance-based system. This work is based on a previous study that considered the part design stage which deals with finding the best design solution for a single part. Considering a wing rib geometry of 3-mm web thickness with 6-mm upper and lower caps, the manufacturing process is designed and assessed using the Simufact Additive™ software. The use of AM when embedding IoT sensors allows more flexibility without compromising the structural integrity of parts, as well as the advantage of design freedom and limited cost when modifying geometries. The outcomes show that the manufacturing process depends strongly on hot isostatic pressing (HIP) for the wing rib, but for the sensory covers it presented no significant improvement. The results also show that the support optimisation can lead to an important reduction of mass and volume as well as an improvement of the structural performance.
Evaluation of the Impact of Policymakers’ Decisions in the Management Capacity of Protected Areas: Efficiency Evidence from Five Countries
Authors: Valdivieso Juan Carlos , Eagles Paul F. J. , Gil Joan Carles
Published: November 2022

Protected areas play an important role in biodiversity conservation and tourism. Significant efforts have been made to increase the amount of protected lands. A problem of increasing the amount of public protected areas is that governments and other institutions face difficulties in providing the necessary resources for effective management. Accordingly, managers must be as efficient as possible but the lack of comparative methods makes the evaluation of efficiency difficult. Using Data Envelopment Analysis, a non-stochastic and non-parametric approach, information from 29 protected areas in 5 countries was analyzed to compare management efficiency amongst them. The first result found is the level of management efficiency that each park has in comparison with the others parks. The other important result is a prediction of the changes in the outputs if there is a hypothetical budget change. These results allow the generation of information for decision making.
Hand‐Assisted Versus Pure Minimally‐Invasive Distal Pancreatectomy: Is There a Downside to Lending a Hand?
Authors: Miller Phoebe N. , Romero‐Hernandez Fernanda , Conroy Patricia , Calthorpe Lucia , Yilma Mignote , Mohamedaly Sarah , Kelly Yvonne M. , Feng Jean , Hirose Kenzo , Kirkwood Kimberly , Maker Ajay V. , Corvera Carlos , Nakakura Eric , Alseidi Adnan , Adam Mohamed A.
Published: November 2022

Background

Hand‐assisted laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (HALDP) is suggested to offer similar outcomes to pure laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP). However, given the longer midline incision, it is unclear whether HALDP increases the risk of postoperative hernia. Our aim was to determine the risk of postoperative incisional hernia development after HALDP.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data from patients undergoing HALDP or LDP at a single center (2012–2020). Primary endpoints were postoperative incisional hernia and operative time. All patients had at minimum six months of follow‐up. Outcomes were compared using unadjusted and multivariable regression analyses.

Results

Ninety‐five patients who underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy were retrospectively identified. Forty‐one patients (43%) underwent HALDP. Patients with HALDP were older (median, 67 vs. 61 years,p = 0.02). Sex, race, Body Mass Index (median, 27 vs. 26), receipt of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, gland texture, wound infection rates, postoperative pancreatic fistula, overall complications, and hospital length‐of‐stay were similar between HALDP and LDP (allp > 0.05). In unadjusted analysis, operative times were shorter for HALDP (164 vs. 276 min,p < 0.001), but after adjustment, did not differ significantly (MR 0.73; 0.49–1.07,p = 0.1). Unadjusted incidence of hernia was higher in HALDP versus LDP (60% vs. 24%,p = 0.004). After adjustment, HALDP was associated with an increased odds of developing hernia (OR 7.52; 95% CI 1.54–36.8,p = 0.014). After propensity score matching, odds of hernia development remained higher for HALDP (OR 4.62; 95% CI 1.28–16.65, p = 0.031)p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Compared with LDP, HALDP was associated with increased likelihood of postoperative hernia with insufficient evidence that HALDP shortens operative times. Our results suggest that HALDP may not be equivalent to LDP.
Modulation Theory for Radially Symmetric Kink Waves Governed by a Multi-Dimensional Sine-Gordon Equation
Authors: Nguyen Lu Trong Khiem , Smyth Noel Frederick
Published: November 2022

We derive a modulation theory for the resolution of radially symmetric kink waves governed by a multi-dimensional sine-Gordon equation. Whitham modulation theory is developed to explain the return of an expanding kink wave, as well as predicting its maximum expansion radius and its return time. Comparisons with full numerical solutions of the sine-Gordon equation show that the modulation theory gives excellent predictions for not only the returning time and the maximum expansion radius, but also for the details of the kink itself. In addition, the method can be extended to dissipative sine-Gordon equations and generalized to deal with a wide class of initial conditions beyond kinks.