bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and characterization of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from raw vegetables retailed in Southern Thailand
Authors: Romyasamit Chonticha , Sornsenee Phoomjai , Chimplee Siriphorn , Yuwalaksanakun Sitanun , Wongprot Dechawat , Saengsuwan Phanvasri
Published: August 2021

Background

The increasing prevalence of broad-spectrum ampicillin-resistant and third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, particularly Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, has become a global concern, with its clinical impacts on both human and veterinary medicine. This study examined the prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility, and molecular genetic features of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates from 10 types of raw vegetables.

Methods

In total, 305 samples were collected from 9 markets in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, in 2020.

Results

ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates were found in 14 of the 305 samples obtained from 7 out of 10 types of vegetables (4.6% of the total). Further, 14 ESBL-producing E. coli (n = 5/14) and K. pneumoniae isolates (n = 9/14) (1.6% and 3.0%, respectively) were highly sensitive to β-lactam/carbapenem antibiotics (imipenem, 100%). ESBL-producing E. coli (n = 4) and K. pneumoniae isolates (n = 8) were also sensitive to non-β-lactam aminoglycosides (amikacin, 80.00% and 88.89%, respectively). ESBL producers were most resistant to β-lactam antibiotics, including ampicillin (85.71%) and the cephalosporins cefotaxime and ceftazidime (64.29%). The most frequently detected gene in ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae was blaSHV. However, two ESBL-producing E. coli isolates also carried three other ESBL-encoding variants, blaTEM, blaCTX-M1, blaGES and blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTX-M9, which may be due to their association with food chains and humans.

Discussion

Indeed, our results suggest that raw vegetables are an important source of ESBL-resistant E. coli and K. pneumoniae, which are potentially transmittable to humans via raw vegetable intake.
Plantago campestris (Plantaginaceae), a rare new species from southern Brazil, supported by phylogenomic and morphological evidence
Authors: Hassemer Gustavo , Gardner Elliot M. , Rønsted Nina
Published: August 2021

High-throughput sequencing, when combined with taxonomic expertise, is a powerful tool to refine and advance taxonomic classification, including at the species level. In the present work, a new species, Plantago campestris, is described out of the P. commersoniana species complex, based on phylogenomic and morphological evidence. The main morphological characters that distinguish the new species from P. commersoniana are the glabrous posterior sepals and the slightly broader leaves. The new species is known from only three localities, all in natural high-elevation grasslands in Paraná and Santa Catarina states, southern Brazil. According to the IUCN criteria new species should be assessed as Endangered (EN). We present field photographs of P. campestris and related species, and we provide an identification key to the species previously included within the circumscription of P. commersoniana.
AAV expressing an mTOR‐inhibiting siRNA exhibits therapeutic potential in retinal vascular disorders by preserving endothelial integrity
Authors: Cha Seho , Seo Won‐il , Woo Ha‐Na , Kim Hee Jong , Lee Steven Hyun Seung , Kim Jin , Choi Jun‐Sub , Park Keerang , Lee Joo Yong , Lee Beom Jun , Lee Heuiran
Published: August 2021

Expanding on previous demonstrations of the therapeutic effects of adeno‐associated virus (AAV) carrying small‐hairpin RNA (shRNA) in downregulating the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) in in vivo retinal vascular disorders, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐stimulated endothelial cells were treated with AAV2‐shmTOR to examine the role of mTOR inhibition in retinal angiogenesis. AAV2‐shmTOR exposure significantly reduced mTOR expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and decreased downstream signaling cascades of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2 under VEGF treatment. Moreover, the angiogenic potential of VEGF was significantly inhibited by AAV2‐shmTOR, which preserved endothelial integrity by maintaining tight junctions between HUVECs. These data thus support previous in vivo studies and provide evidence that AAV2‐shmTOR induces therapeutic effects by inhibiting the neovascularization of endothelial cells.
Prospects for daily online adaptive radiotherapy via ethos for prostate cancer patients without nodal involvement using unedited CBCT auto‐segmentation
Authors: Moazzezi Mojtaba , Rose Brent , Kisling Kelly , Moore Kevin L. , Ray Xenia
Published: August 2021

Purpose

 Implementing new online adaptive radiation therapy technologies is challenging because extra clinical resources are required particularly expert contour review. Here, we provide the first assessment of Varian's Ethos™ adaptive platform for prostate cancer using no manual edits after auto‐segmentation to minimize this impact on clinical efficiency.

Methods

Twenty‐five prostate patients previously treated at our clinic were re‐planned using an Ethos™ emulator. Clinical target volumes (CTV) included intact prostate and proximal seminal vesicles. The following clinical margins were used: 3 mm posterior, 5 mm left/right/anterior, and 7 mm superior/inferior. Adapted plans were calculated for 10 fractions per patient using Ethos's auto‐segmentation and auto‐planning workflow without manual contouring edits. Doses and auto‐segmented structures were exported to our clinical treatment planning system where contours were modified as needed for all 250 CTVs and organs‐at‐risk. Dose metrics from adapted plans were compared to unadapted plans to evaluate CTV and OAR dose changes.

Results

Overall 96% of fractions required auto‐segmentation edits, although corrections were generally minor (<10% of the volume for 70% of CTVs, 88% of bladders, and 90% of rectums). However, for one patient the auto‐segmented CTV failed to include the superior portion of prostate that extended into the bladder at all 10 fractions resulting in under‐contouring of the CTV by 31.3% ± 6.7%. For the 24 patients with minor auto‐segmentation corrections, adaptation improved CTV D98% by 2.9% ± 5.3%. For non‐adapted fractions where bladder or rectum V90% exceeded clinical thresholds, adaptation reduced them by 13.1% ± 1.0% and 6.5% ± 7.3%, respectively.

Conclusion

 For most patients, Ethos's online adaptive radiation therapy workflow improved CTV D98% and reduced normal tissue dose when structures would otherwise exceed clinical thresholds, even without time‐consuming manual edits. However, for one in 25 patients, large contour edits were required and thus scrutiny of the daily auto‐segmentation is necessary and not all patients will be good candidates for adaptation.
A comparison of two methodologies for radiotherapy treatment plan optimization and QA for clinical trials
Authors: Geng Huaizhi , Giaddui Tawfik , Cheng Chingyun , Zhong Haoyu , Ryu Samuel , Liao Zhongxing , Yin Fang‐Fang , Gillin Michael , Mohan Radhe , Xiao Ying
Published: August 2021

Background and purpose

The efficacy of clinical trials and the outcome of patient treatment are dependent on the quality assurance (QA) of radiation therapy (RT) plans. There are two widely utilized approaches that include plan optimization guidance created based on patient‐specific anatomy. This study examined these two techniques for dose‐volume histogram predictions, RT plan optimizations, and prospective QA processes, namely the knowledge‐based planning (KBP) technique and another first principle (FP) technique.

Methods

This analysis included 60, 44, and 10 RT plans from three Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) multi‐institutional trials: RTOG 0631 (Spine SRS), RTOG 1308 (NSCLC), and RTOG 0522 (H&N), respectively. Both approaches were compared in terms of dose prediction and plan optimization. The dose predictions were also compared to the original plan submitted to the trials for the QA procedure.

Results

For the RTOG 0631 (Spine SRS) and RTOG 0522 (H&N) plans, the dose predictions from both techniques have correlation coefficients of >0.9. The RT plans that were re‐optimized based on the predictions from both techniques showed similar quality, with no statistically significant differences in target coverage or organ‐at‐risk sparing. The predictions of mean lung and heart doses from both methods for RTOG1308 patients, on the other hand, have a discrepancy of up to 14 Gy.

Conclusions

Both methods are valuable tools for optimization guidance of RT plans for Spine SRS and Head and Neck cases, as well as for QA purposes. On the other hand, the findings suggest that KBP may be more feasible in the case of inoperable lung cancer patients who are treated with IMRT plans that have spatially unevenly distributed beam angles.
Cell‐Membrane‐Derived Nanoparticles with Notch‐1 Suppressor Delivery Promote Hypoxic Cell–Cell Packing and Inhibit Angiogenesis Acting as a Two‐Edged Sword
Authors: Kim Hye‐Seon , Shin Young Min , Chung Seyong , Kim Dahee , Park Dan Bi , Baek Sewoom , Park Jeongeun , Kim Si Yeong , Kim Dae‐Hyun , Yi Se Won , Lee Songhyun , Lee Jung Bok , Ko Ji‐Yun , Im Gun‐Il , Kang Mi‐Lan , Sung Hak‐Joon
Published: August 2021

Cell–cell interactions regulate intracellular signaling via reciprocal contacts of cell membranes in tissue regeneration and cancer growth, indicating a critical need of membrane‐derived tools in studying these processes. Hence, cell‐membrane‐derived nanoparticles (CMNPs) are produced using tonsil‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (TMSCs) from children owing to their short doubling time. As target cell types, laryngeal cancer cells are compared to bone‐marrow‐derived MSCs (BMSCs) because of their cartilage damaging and chondrogenic characteristics, respectively. Treating spheroids of these cell types with CMNPs exacerbates interspheroid hypoxia with robust maintenance of the cell–cell interaction signature for 7 days. Both cell types prefer a hypoxic environment, as opposed to blood vessel formation that is absent in cartilage but is required for cancer growth. Hence, angiogenesis is inhibited by displaying the Notch‐1 aptamer on CMNPs. Consequently, laryngeal cancer growth is suppressed efficiently in contrast to improved chondroprotection observed in a series of cell and animal experiments using a xenograft mouse model of laryngeal cancer. Altogether, CMNPs execute a two‐edged sword function of inducing hypoxic cell–cell packing, followed by suppressing angiogenesis to promote laryngeal cancer death and chondrogenesis simultaneously. This study presents a previously unexplored therapeutic strategy for anti‐cancer and chondroprotective treatment using CMNPs.
Supersaturation‐Controlled Growth of Monolithically Integrated Lead‐Free Halide Perovskite Single‐Crystalline Thin Film for High‐Sensitivity Photodetectors
Authors: Li Ziqing , Liu Xinya , Zuo Chaolei , Yang Wei , Fang Xiaosheng
Published: August 2021

Monolithical integration of the promising optoelectronic material with mature and inexpensive silicon circuitry contributes to simplifying device geometry, enhancing performance, and expanding new functionalities. Herein, a lead‐free halide perovskite Cs3Bi2I9 single‐crystalline thin film (SCTF), with thickness ranging from 900 nm to 4.1 µm and aspect ratio up to 1666, is directly integrated on various substrates including Si wafer, through a facile and low‐temperature solution‐processing method. The growth kinetics of the lead‐free halide perovskite SCTF are elucidated by in situ observation, and the solution supersaturation is controlled to reduce the inverse‐temperature crystallization nucleation density and elongate the evaporation growth. The excellent lattice match and band alignment between Si(111) and Cs3Bi2I9(001) facets promote photogenerated charge dissociation and extraction, resulting in boosting the photoelectric sensitivity by 10–200 times compared with photodetectors based on other substrates. More importantly, this silicon‐compatible perovskite SCTF photodetector exhibits a high switching ratio of 3000 and a fast response of 1.5 µs, which are higher than most reported state‐of‐the‐art lead‐free halide perovskite photodetectors. This work not only gives an in‐depth understanding of the perovskite precursor solution chemistry, but also demonstrates the great potential of monolithical integration of lead‐free halide perovskite SCTF with a silicon wafer for high‐performance photodetectors.
Synthesis of Functionalized Cyclobutenes and Spirocycles via Asymmetric P(III)/P(V) Redox Catalysis
Authors: Lorton Charlotte , Roblin Antoine , Retailleau Pascal , Voituriez Arnaud
Published: August 2021

An enantioselective phosphine‐catalyzed transformation has been developed for the synthesis of chiral cyclobutene triesters and fluorinated spirocyclic compounds. The strategy involved a P(III)/P(V) redox cycling process, via in situ reduction of phosphine oxide with phenylsilane. This catalytic methodology has enabled the enantioselective synthesis of functionalized cyclobutenes (24 examples, up to 94% ee). On the occasion of the extension of this study to α‐ketoester indenone substrates, a surprising reactivity has been discovered for the synthesis of spiro‐indenone products.

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MoS2 Homojunctions Transistors Enabled by Dimension Tailoring Strategy
Authors: Duan Xinpei , Niu Wencheng , Lin Jun , Liu Chang , Wan Da , Zhang Mingliang , Li Guoli , Liu Xingqiang , Liu Yuan , Fan Zhiyong , Liao Lei
Published: August 2021

2D semiconductors present tunable property with the physical dimension. Herein, an efficient strategy to modulate the band structure of ultrathin channel by dimension tailoring of the 2D materials is reported. In order to verify the practicability of this strategy, bulk‐MoS2/MoS2 nanoribbon (NR) homojunctions are constructed with a rectification ratio approaching up to 104 and an ideality factor of 1.77 which readily enable the fabrication of MoS2‐based metal‐semiconductor field‐effect transistors, and the bulk‐MoS2 and the MoS2 NR serve as gate and channel, respectively. The fabricated devices exhibit robust performance, such as high saturation current of 46 µA·µm−1 and high on–off ratio over 5 × 105 at room temperature. The output current presents a high value of 140 µA·µm−1 at 77 K, then decreases with temperature. Moreover, the fabricated inverter provides a voltage gain of 15.4 and a near‐ideal noise margin of 83% of supply voltage. This strategy indicates an alternative way to construct transistors based on the derivative of the same 2D material.
Planting method and seeding rate effect on whole and partitioned soybean yield
Authors: Mourtzinis Spyros , Roth Adam , Gaska John , Conley Shawn P.
Published: August 2021

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seeding rate is one of the most important management decisions. Although seeding rate effect on yield is one of the most examined management practices, its interactive effect with seeding method is often ignored. Two field trials were conducted in Arlington, WI, between 2019 and 2020. In the first trial, the interactive effect of seeding rate with seeding method (precision vs. random) and two cultivars was examined. Precision method used a vacuum seed meter and soybean seed plate, whereas the random method used a cone seed distribution system. The second trial was hand planted to mimic precision planting (exact seeding rates and within row spacings), and the effect of seeding rate on total and partitioned (branch and stem) soybean yield was assessed. The effect of seeding rate on yield varied due to seeding method and cultivar. Precision seeding increased yield for the lowest seeding rate (99,000 seeds ha–1) and was associated with increased canopy closure and more uniform within‐row plant‐to‐plant spacing compared with the random seeding method. When soybean was hand planted (precision planting), total yield was greater only in the highest seeding rate. In the lowest rates, branch‐ and stem‐derived yields were similar. Overall results show that precision planting can mitigate yield loss at suboptimal seeding rates. Results from these studies reveal the complexity of seeding rate optimization for maximizing soybean yield and resulting profit and highlight the need for farm‐specific economic analysis for different management‐related costs and soybean price scenarios.
Enhanced propylene/propane separation in facilitated transport membranes containing multisilver complex
Authors: Su Yafei , Cong Shenzhen , Shan Meixia , Zhang Yatao
Published: August 2021

Facilitated transport membrane containing a zero complex Ag4tz4and 6FDA‐TMPDA was fabricated via a solution‐casting method and their separation performance toward C3H6/C3H8was investigated. Ag4tz4complexes were well dispersed in the polymeric matrix owing to the weak hydrogen bond between Ag4tz4and 6FDA‐TMPDA which can efficiently improve their interface compatibility. The reversible π complexation between C3H6and Ag+facilitates the C3H6transport in membranes, which is beneficial to achieve high C3H6/C3H8permselectivity according to the density functional theory calculation. Remarkably, the best separation performance was achieved by the 10 wt% Ag4tz4membrane, for which the C3H6permeability is 22 Barrer and the C3H6/C3H8selectivity reaches up to 43, surpassing the Robeson upper bound. In addition, the membranes also exhibit great long‐term stability (>120 h). The excellent separation performance together with the long‐term stability render the membrane to be an interesting candidate for C3H6/C3H8separation.
Drop sizes and population balance model for a Karr column
Authors: Zhang Jiyizhe , Li Wen , Mumford Kathryn , Fei Weiyang , Stevens Geoffrey , Wang Yundong
Published: August 2021

Drop sizes were investigated and measured in a Karr column. A stagewise population balance model was presented considering drop breakage and coalescence. The same breakage mechanisms observed in the single drop study were also found in column. The breakage probability model was selected by comparing the model from single drop study and the widely used models. Model parameters were calculated based on a two‐step optimization method. The results showed that the drop sizes decreased with an increase in reciprocating intensity, but changed slightly with phase velocities. The predicted drop sizes were compared to the experimental data in previous studies and good agreement was achieved. Finally, the population balance model along with some existing correlations were compared with the experimental data. It was found that the population balance model and correlations with the low agitation term provided better predictions of drop sizes in the Karr column. Transport Phenomena and Fluid Mechanics: Karr column, drop size distribution, population balance model, parameter optimization.
Ionic Functionalization of Multivariate Covalent Organic Frameworks to Achieve an Exceptionally High Iodine‐Capture Capacity
Authors: Xie Yaqiang , Pan Tingting , Lei Qiong , Chen Cailing , Dong Xinglong , Yuan Youyou , Shen Jie , Cai Yichen , Zhou Chunhui , Pinnau Ingo , Han Yu
Published: August 2021

Adsorption‐based iodine (I2) capture has great potential for the treatment of radioactive nuclear waste. In this study, we apply a “multivariate” synthetic strategy to construct ionic covalent organic frameworks (iCOFs) with a large surface area, high pore volume, and abundant binding sites for I2 capture. The optimized material iCOF‐AB‐50 exhibits a static I2 uptake capacity of 10.21 g g−1 at 75 °C and a dynamic uptake capacity of 2.79 g g−1 at ≈400 ppm I2 and 25 °C, far exceeding the performances of previously reported adsorbents under similar conditions. iCOF‐AB‐50 also exhibits fast adsorption kinetics, good moisture tolerance, and full reusability. The promoting effect of ionic groups on I2 adsorption has been elucidated by experimentally identifying the iodine species adsorbed at different sites and calculating their binding energies. This work demonstrates the essential role of balancing the textural properties and binding sites of the adsorbent in achieving a high I2 capture performance.
A Molecular‐Splicing Strategy for Constructing a Near‐Infrared Fluorescent Probe for UDP‐Glucuronosyltransferase 1A1
Authors: Tian Xiangge , Liu Tao , Ma Yinhua , Gao Jian , Feng Lei , Cui Jingnan , James Tony D. , Ma Xiaochi
Published: August 2021

UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 (UGT1A1) is a vital metabolic enzyme responsible for the clearance of endogenous substances and drugs. Hitherto, the development of fluorescent probes for UGTs was severely restricted due to the poor isoform selectivity and on–off or blue‐shifted fluorescence response. Herein, we established a novel “molecular‐splicing” strategy to construct a highly selective near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescent probe,HHC, for UGT1A1, which exhibited a NIR signal at 720 nm after UGT1A1 metabolism.HHCwas then successfully used for the real‐time imaging of endogenous UGT1A1 in living cells and animals and to monitor the bile excretion function. In summary, an isoform‐specific NIR fluorescent probe has been developed for monitoring UGT1A1 activity in living systems, high‐throughput screening of novel UGT1A1 inhibitors and visual evaluation of bile excretion function.
Ship‐in‐bottle preparation of multi‐SO3H functionalized ionic liquid@MIL‐100(Fe) for acid‐catalyzed ring‐opening of epoxides
Authors: Mortazavi Saeideh‐Sadat , Masteri‐Farahani Majid , Abbasi Alireza
Published: August 2021

The fact that the homogeneous acid catalysts are usually separated difficulty than heterogeneous catalysts from the reaction media, the opportunity to combine the advantages of both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalytic systems by immobilizing ILs within the pores of a porous solid support host is an alternative method. In this research, a multi‐SO3H functionalized ionic liquid derived from hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) and 1,3‐propane sultone was entrapped inside the pores of MIL‐100(Fe) through the ship‐in‐bottle method and utilized for heterogeneous acid‐catalyzed ring‐opening of epoxides under solvent‐free conditions. The physicochemical properties of prepared catalyst were fully elucidated by various methods. FT‐IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis approved the successful incorporation of modified groups within the MIL‐100(Fe) cavities. The concentration of acid sites was measured via the acid–base titration which exhibited the 0.9 mmol/g H+ in the catalyst structure. Also, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) profile showed the loosing of modified groups at 300–600°C. Moreover, X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed that the MIL‐100(Fe) structure was retained after modification and nitrogen adsorption–desorption analysis (BET method) manifested the decrease in surface area caused by incorporation of ionic liquid. The fabricated catalyst exhibited high catalytic efficiency in methanolysis of styrene oxide (99% conversion in 3 h) under ambient conditions and used without a substantial drop in product yield in further rounds.
Novel acetylene‐terminated thermosetting polyisoimides with excellent solubility and performed as efficient heat shields composites
Authors: Xu Qinging , Shi Xincui , Li Yunhui , Zeng Fanming , Deng Pengyang , Su Zhongmin
Published: August 2021

The acetylene‐terminated polyisoimide oligomers introducing 2,2′‐bis (trifluoromethyl)benzidine (TFMB) or 3,4′‐oxydiphthalic anhydride (3,4′‐ODA) as the diamine were synthesized, and short quartz fiber reinforced polyisoimide composites were prepared. The structure, processability, and thermal properties of polyisoimide oligomers were characterized. The mechanical properties and ablation protection performances of the composites were tested. The effects of TFMB on the processability and thermal properties of polyisoimides were studied. The application properties of short quartz fiber reinforced polyisoimide composites as thermal protection materials were evaluated by coal gas/oxygen ablation test system. These results showed that the introduction of TFMB into the polyisoimide structure can improve its solubility and heat resistance, as well as the ablation protection performances of the composites. The above results showed its potential application in the field of thermal protection materials. This makes it possible for polyisoimide composites to be used in the field of ablation protection.
Spawning areas and migration patterns in the early life history of Squalius cephalus (Linnaeus, 1758): Use of otolith microchemistry for conservation and sustainable management
Authors: Bounket Bernadette , Tabouret Hélène , Gibert Pierre , Bareille Gilles , Pecheyran Christophe , Carrel Georges , Argillier Christine , Morat Fabien
Published: August 2021

In the context of the River Rhône restoration programme, the objective of this study was to assess the dispersal and population connectivity of the European chub, Squalius cephalus (Linnaeus, 1758) in a section of the natural, free‐flowing part of the lower River Rhône.

The elemental water signatures for Sr:Ca and Ba:Ca were measured at seven stations within the river section, including its tributaries and backwaters, to determine whether they could be differentiated by microchemistry. From August to October the signatures differed among three sectors of the study reach: the Rhône; the Ardèche; and the backwaters.

The elemental signatures of the otoliths of 178 young‐of‐the‐year (YOY) chub from the stations were measured to assess spawning areas and identify early migratory life histories. Analyses of otolith microchemistry identified the natal origin of 95% of the fish. Sr:Ca signatures of otoliths showed early downstream migration for 30.4% of the YOY chub; however, 70% of the fish recruited relatively close to their spawning origin suggesting a potential inshore retention of fish.

The results showed (i) a non‐negligible contribution of the tributaries and backwaters in the recruitment of fish into the main channel; and (ii) the ability of chub to migrate over several kilometres during their first few months of life.

This study shows that the combination of water and otolith microchemistry analyses of fish growth increases the understanding of fish life history. Moreover, the study revealed that half of the YOY fish from this river section came from the tributaries and the other half came from reproduction in the River Rhône (despite its high anthropization).

These methods offer promising future applications of otolith microchemistry for river management in the context of ecological rehabilitation, especially to assess the effectiveness of measures applied in the restoration of floodplain connectivity for riverine fish population conservation.
Scalp acupuncture enhances local brain regions functional activities and functional connections between cerebral hemispheres in acute ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Liu Huacong , Jiang Yijing , Wang Ningning , Yan Han , Chen Lanpin , Gao Jingchun , Zhang Jiping , Qu Shanshan , Liu Songyan , Liu Gang , Huang Yong , Chen Junqi
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to explore the changes in functional connections between cerebral hemispheres and local brain regions functional activities in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) treated with International Standard Scalp Acupuncture (ISSA). Thirty patients with middle cerebral artery AIS in the dominant hemisphere were selected and randomly divided into two groups such as the control group and the scalp acupuncture group, with 15 patients in each group. Patients in the control group were treated with conventional Western medicine, while patients in the scalp acupuncture group received ISSA (acupuncture at the parietal midline [MS5], acupuncture at the left anterior parietotemporal oblique line [MS6] and acupuncture at the left posterior parietotemporal oblique line [MS7]) for one course of treatment. All patients were evaluated for treatment efficacy and received whole brain resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (Rs‐fMRI) scan before and after treatment. The observational indicators included: (a) the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores and the simplified Fugl‐Meyer Assessment (SFMA) scores; (b) analyses of the amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation (ALFF), regional homogeneity (ReHo) and voxel‐mirrored homotopic connectivity (VMHC). The results showed a significant difference in the NIHSS scores before and after treatment in the scalp acupuncture group compared with the control group (p < .05), indicating that patients improved better after scalp acupuncture treatment. Compared with the control group, the VMHC, ALFF and ReHo values in the scalp acupuncture group increased after treatment. The VMHC values increased in the brain regions dominated by bilateral BA6 and BA8; the ALFF values increased in the left BA39 and the adjacent superior temporal gyrus and middle temporal gyrus; and the ReHo values increased in the brain regions extending from left middle temporal gyrus (including BA21) to BA37, and the brain regions extending from the left BA40 and angular gyrus to BA7. The present study indicated that scalp acupuncture can specifically strengthen the functional activities of the brain regions related to sensory integration, language processing and motor coordination in the middle aged and elderly patients with AIS of the dominant cerebral hemisphere, and can strengthen bilateral frontal lobe motor control. This study may provide a scientific basis for the clinical application of ISSA treatment in patients with AIS, and may also provide a preliminary research basis for further animal experiments.
Open research data repositories: Practices, norms, and metadata for sharing images
Authors: Hansson Karin , Dahlgren Anna
Published: August 2021

Open research data repositories are promoted as one of the cornerstones in the open research paradigm, promoting collaboration, interoperability, and large‐scale sharing and reuse. There is, however, a lack of research investigating what these sharing platforms actually share and a more critical interface analysis of the norms and practices embedded in this datafication of academic practice is needed. This article takes image data sharing in the humanities as a case study for investigating the possibilities and constraints in 5 open research data repositories. By analyzing the visual and textual content of the interface along with the technical means for metadata, the study shows how the platforms are differentiated in terms of signifiers of research paradigms, but that beneath the rhetoric of the interface, they are designed in a similar way, which does not correspond well with the image researchers' need for detailed metadata. Combined with the problem of copyright limitations, these data‐sharing tools are simply not sophisticated enough when it comes to sharing and reusing images. The result also corresponds with previous research showing that these tools are used not so much for sharing research data, but more for promoting researcher personas.
Memory of Chirality in the Asymmetric Synthesis of Piperidines with Vicinal Stereocenters by Intramolecular Sn2′ Reaction
Authors: Park Seungbae , Lee Seokwoo , Kim Jae Hyun , Choi Won Jun , Kim Sanghee
Published: August 2021

Intramolecular Sn2′ cyclization of α‐amino ester enolates provided piperidine derivatives with vicinal quaternary‐tertiary stereocenters with excellent diastereo‐ and enantioselectivity via memory of chirality and the Thorpe‐Ingold effect. DFT calculations provided a mechanistic rationale for the increase in chirality preservation via the Thorpe‐Ingold effect. This new method has the potential to be integrated into concise asymmetric synthesis of bioactive molecules containing multisubstituted piperidine moieties.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation with rituximab‐combined chemotherapy in AIDS‐associated primary cardiac lymphoma: A case report
Authors: Fuseya Hoyuri , Yoshimura Takuro , Tsutsumi Minako , Nakaya Yosuke , Horiuchi Mirei , Yoshida Masahiro , Hayashi Yoshiki , Nakao Takafumi , Inoue Takeshi , Yamane Takahisa
Published: August 2021

Although effective combination of antiretroviral medications is being developed, the incidence of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) with human immunodeficiency/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) still remains significantly higher than that in individuals without infection. Primary cardiac lymphoma (PCL) is an NHL that involves the heart and/or the pericardium. PCL is very rare and often causes serious complications, which can be a diagnostic challenge. To our knowledge, no study has reported the measurement of rituximab concentration under venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA‐ECMO). Herein, we report the case of a 54‐year‐old male patient with AIDS‐associated primary cardiac NHL who developed right ventricular outflow tract obstruction. The patient experienced fatigue and dyspnea on exertion. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography showed a bulky tumor mass in his right atrium and ventricle, and an echocardiogram revealed severe hypokinesis of his heart and poor cardiac output. A biopsy was performed, and immunohistochemistry revealed diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. Therefore, he was treated with rituximab‐combined chemotherapy under VA‐ECMO. Blood levels of rituximab were measured during chemotherapy with VA‐ECMO. Thereafter, he was temporarily discharged from the hospital. This clinical case suggests that VA‐ECMO and rituximab‐combined chemotherapy are useful in rescuing patients with severe cardiopulmonary failure due to AIDS‐associated PCL.
Compression Mechanism in Multilayered Filter Cakes
Authors: Hennemann Martin , Fattahi Ehsan , Gastl Martina , Becker Thomas
Published: August 2021

Sedimentation combined with a broad particle size distribution in the suspension results in multilayered filter cakes, where a fine particle layer forms on top of a compressible bottom layer. Owing to their high resistance, the fine particles act as a stiff layer and compress the bottom layer during filtration. This was investigated using a model cake composed of a compressible bottom layer and an artificial fine layer. Compression was determined via a volumetric porosity measurement. A reduction in porosity due to compression increased the filter cake resistance significantly. The use of different types of fine particles demonstrated that if the top layer resistance is higher than that of the bottom, a differential pressure results that pulls the top layer down and compresses the bottom layer.
Monte Carlo methods for estimating Mallows's Cp and AIC criteria for PLSR models. Illustration on agronomic spectroscopic NIR data
Authors: Lesnoff Matthieu , Roger Jean‐Michel , Rutledge Douglas N.
Published: August 2021

Mallows's Cp and Akaike information criterion (AIC) are common criteria for selecting the dimensionality of regression models, as an alternative to cross‐validation (CV) and nonparametric bootstrap. A key parameter in the calculation of Cp and AIC is the effective number of degrees of freedom of the model, or model complexity (d). Parameter d is generally easy to calculate for linear smoothers, that is, models for which the prediction of the training response y is given by
 = S y where S is a projector matrix that does not involve y. Nevertheless, d is more difficult to estimate for nonlinear smoothers, such as partial least squares regression (PLSR). In this article, we present two algorithms for estimating d for PLSR based on Monte Carlo simulation methods (parametric bootstrap and perturbation analysis) and with the particular case of high dimensional data. We compare these Monte Carlo methods to three other algorithms already published. We used the d estimates to compute Cp and AIC and select PLSR model dimensionalities that we then compare to CV. Two real and heterogeneous agronomic near infrared (NIR) datasets were considered as examples.
Bifunctional Fluorophosphonium Triflates as Intramolecular Frustrated Lewis Pairs: Reversible CO2 Sequestration and Binding of Carbonyls, Nitriles and Acetylenes
Authors: Guo Chun‐Xiang , Schwedtmann Kai , Fidelius Jannis , Hennersdorf Felix , Dickschat Arne , Bauzá Antonio , Frontera Antonio , Weigand Jan J.
Published: August 2021

Electrophilic fluorophosphonium triflates bearing pyridyl (3[OTf]) or imidazolyl (4[OTf])‐substituents act as intramolecular frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) and reversibly form 1 : 1 adducts with CO2 (5+ and 6+). An unusual and labile spirocyclic tetrahedral intermediate (72+) is observed in CO2‐pressurized (0.5–2.0 bar) solutions of cation 4+ at low temperatures, as demonstrated by variable‐temperature NMR studies, which were confirmed crystallographically. In addition, cations 3+ and 4+ actively bind carbonyls, nitriles and acetylenes by 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition, as shown by selected examples.
Segregated Protein–Cucurbit[7]uril Crystalline Architectures via Modulatory Peptide Tectons
Authors: Ramberg Kiefer O. , Guagnini Francesca , Engilberge Sylvain , Wrońska Małgorzata A. , Rennie Martin L. , Pérez Javier , Crowley Peter B.
Published: August 2021

One approach to protein assembly involves water‐soluble supramolecular receptors that act like glues. Bionanoarchitectures directed by these scaffolds are often system‐specific, with few studies investigating their customization. Herein, the modulation of cucurbituril‐mediated protein assemblies through the inclusion of peptide tectons is described. Three peptides of varying length and structural order were N‐terminally appended to RSL, a β‐propeller building block. Each fusion protein was incorporated into crystalline architectures mediated by cucurbit[7]uril (Q7). A trimeric coiled‐coil served as a spacer within a Q7‐directed sheet assembly of RSL, giving rise to a layered material of varying porosity. Within the spacer layers, the coiled‐coils were dynamic. This result prompted consideration of intrinsically disordered peptides (IDPs) as modulatory tectons. Similar to the coiled‐coil, a mussel adhesion peptide (Mefp) also acted as a spacer between protein–Q7 sheets. In contrast, the fusion of a nucleoporin peptide (Nup) to RSL did not recapitulate the sheet assembly. Instead, a Q7‐directed cage was adopted, within which disordered Nup peptides were partially “captured” by Q7 receptors. IDP capture occurred by macrocycle recognition of an intrapeptide Phe‐Gly motif in which the benzyl group was encapsulated by Q7. The modularity of these protein–cucurbituril architectures adds a new dimension to macrocycle‐mediated protein assembly. Segregated protein crystals, with alternating layers of high and low porosity, could provide a basis for new types of materials.
Inherently chiral dialkyloxy‐calix[4]arene acetic acids as enantiodiscriminating additives for high‐performance liquid chromatography separation of d,l‐amino acids
Authors: Kalchenko Olga I. , Trybrat Oleksandr O. , Yesypenko Oleksandr A. , Dyakonenko Viktoriya V. , Shishkina Svitlana V. , Kalchenko Vitali I.
Published: August 2021

Inherently chiral dialkyloxy‐calix[4]arene acetic acids with asymmetric placement of substituents on the lower rim of the macrocycle were first studied as enantiodiscriminating additives to the mobile phase MeCN/H2O/HCOOH (75/25/0.02 by volume) in the high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separation of d,l‐alanine and d,l‐valine on the achiral stationary phase ZORBAX Original CN. The dependence of enantio‐binding properties on the position of alkyl groups is demonstrated. The highest resolution (1.65) and enantioselectivity (1.80) were obtained for the 1,2‐dipropyloxy‐calix[4]arene acetic acid.
Modified Smith predictor‐based P‐PD control for pure integrating delay dominated processes
Authors: Karan Somak , Dey Chanchal
Published: August 2021

Modified Smith predictor (MSP) with P (proportional)‐PD (proportional‐derivative) control methodology is designed for pure integrating processes with time delay (IPTD). Industrial processes such as liquid supply to the large storage, fractional distillation, and superheated steam flow to turbine are found to be integrating in nature with dominant time delay. The proposed P‐PD control strategy ascertains the desired closed loop response. The closed loop time constant () is considered to be the sole tuning parameter for reducing the tuning intricacies of the proposed MSP‐based design. P controller in the forward path is tuned by the internal model control (IMC) technique towards enhanced servo tracking. In the feedback path, PD controller parameters are obtained from Routh's stability analysis for improving regulatory responses. Overshoot free set point response is observed and smooth as well as reasonably faster recovery is also found during load fluctuations. Effectiveness of the proposed MSP is validated during closed loop performance and stability analyses in comparison to others' reported dead time compensating methodologies.
L‐asparaginase doses number as a prognostic factor in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A survival analysis study
Authors: dos Santos Amanda Cabral , dos Santos Julia Maria Bispo , da Costa Lima Elisangela , Land Marcelo Gerardin Poirot
Published: August 2021

Background

The survival of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has improved due to changes in the treatment and the disease diagnosis. A significant advance was the incorporation of asparaginase. However, hypersensitivity reactions are a common cause of early discontinuation of this drug.

Aim

The proposed study aims to evaluate early interruptions and the influence of the number of asparaginase doses effectively administered on the prognosis of patients with ALL.

Methods and Results

An observational cohort study was carried out, with retrospective data collection, in medical records. The prognostic variables indicated in the protocol applied were used, and the principal outcomes were 5 years event‐free survival (EFS) and 5 years of overall survival (OS) probability. Statistical analyzes were performed using SPPS 20.0 and R. In Cox's proportional hazards model for EFS and OS, variables of prognostic importance (n = 126 children) were: high‐risk group (HGR), by the protocol classification, and less than 10 doses of asparaginase. The increased risk of events and death in HGR, who did less than 10 doses, was 3.6 and 7 times, respectively. The study did not show statistical significance for the number of asparaginase doses in patients who were not at high risk.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that the early interruption of asparaginase treatment could negatively impact the prognosis of patients with ALL, especially HGR, reinforcing the need for careful diagnosis of reactions and the availability of alternative types of asparaginase.
Universality Near the Gradient Catastrophe Point in the Semiclassical Sine‐Gordon Equation
Authors: Lu Bing‐Ying , Miller Peter
Published: August 2021

We study the semiclassical limit of the sine‐Gordon (sG) equation with below threshold pure impulse initial data of Klaus‐Shaw type. The Whitham averaged approximation of this system exhibits a gradient catastrophe in finite time. In accordance with a conjecture of Dubrovin, Grava, and Klein, we found that in a neighborhood near the gradient catastrophe point, the asymptotics of the sG solution are universally described by the Painlevé I tritronquée solution. A linear map can be explicitly made from the tritronquée solution to this neighborhood. Under this map: away from the tritronquée poles, the first correction of sG is universally given by the real part of the Hamiltonian of the tritronquée solution; localized defects appear at locations mapped from the poles of the tritronquée solution; the defects are proved universally to be a two‐parameter family of special localized solutions on a periodic background for the sG equation. We are able to characterize the solution in detail. Our approach is the rigorous steepest descent method for matrix Riemann‐Hilbert problems, substantially generalizing [5] to establish universality beyond the context of solutions of a single equation. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Implementation of 21st Century Cures Act Expanded Access Policies Requirements
Authors: Kang Sukhun , Chang Sungyong , Ross Joseph S. , Miller Jennifer E.
Published: August 2021

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expanded access pathway allows patients with life‐threatening or serious conditions to access investigational drugs outside of trials, under certain conditions. The 21st Century Cures Act (“Cures Act”) requires certain drug companies to publicly disclose their expanded access policies. We characterized the proportion of applicable US biopharmaceutical companies, with an oncology related drug, implementing Cures Act requirements for expanded access policies and whether available policies contain the information described in the Act. We found about one‐third of applicable biopharmaceutical companies (32%, 140/423) implemented the Cures Act requirement to have a public expanded access policy. Less than one‐third of public policies contained all described information (31%, 44/140). Larger companies and those with at least one drug receiving an FDA expedited designation (59% vs. 21%; P < 0.001), or at least one FDA‐approved drug (57% vs. 28%; P < 0.001) were more likely to have a public policy. Our results suggest the Cures Act may be having a limited impact on its goals of supporting timely medical decisions and closing informational gaps for patients and doctors around expanded access to investigational oncology therapies, especially for products sponsored by smaller and newer companies.
Green certification and organizational attractiveness: The moderating role of firm ownership
Authors: Guillot‐Soulez Chloé , Saint‐Onge Sylvie , Soulez Sébastien
Published: August 2021

At a time of critical talent shortages and environmental challenges, it is necessary to increase understanding of how green employer certification (GEC), as an ethical market signal, affects job seekers' perceptions. This study examines whether the relationship between GEC in recruitment advertisements and organizational attractiveness is mediated by firms' perceived prestige and person‐organization (PO) fit and if it varies according to firm ownership (i.e., investor‐owned vs. member‐owned). Results from a controlled online experiment firstly show that the communication of GEC has an indirect positive influence on organizational attractiveness via the mediating effects of perceived prestige and perceived PO fit. Secondly, depending upon firm ownership, people interpret the same certification differently: the communication of GEC thus has an indirect influence on organizational attractiveness and significantly improves firms' perceived prestige and PO fit among member‐owned firms but not among investor‐owned firms. Hence, practitioners should consider the value of including environmental certification in their recruitment advertising strategy while considering the issue of firm ownership.
Utilization of Plastic Wastes for Sustainable Environmental Management: A Review
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Singh Ekta , Mishra Rahul , Kumar Aman , Caucci Serena
Published: August 2021

The advancement and modernization of industries have provided numerous benefits to human life including diversification of manufacturing a wide range of products made from plastic materials, thereby leading to the generation of huge quantities of plastic waste. Owing to the increasing issues related with plastic waste, recycling methods have attracted much interest. Recycling not only protects the environment and resources for future generations but also reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. A wide range of valuable products including char, oil, fuels, sorbent materials, and chemicals can be obtained through different techniques. This Review highlights various sustainable research avenues and potential routes to reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste based on both traditional and potential approaches for its utilization.