bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid Zeolization of Potassic Rocks by Means of a Microwave‐Assisted Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Liu Yang , Liu Shanfang , Li Yun , Cao Jilin
Published: July 2021

Potassic rocks are rapidly activated and converted to cancrinite (CAN) zeolites in NaOH solution via microwave‐assisted hydrothermal (MH) method. The conditions of zeolization process via MH method are optimized, and the mechanism is illustrated. The phase transition process of potassic rocks is obtained as follows: decomposition of the potassic rocks→zeolite sodalite→zeolite CAN. In this process, the microwave exerts a reinforcement effect by generating the cleavage cracks on the surface of potassic rocks and accelerating the dissolution and crystallization processes. The synthesized zeolite CAN exhibits the maximum adsorption capacity of 6.5 mg g−1for methylene blue. In addition, the filtrate is further used to prepare linda type A (LTA) zeolites by conventional hydrothermal synthesis method. The synthesized zeolite LTA presents the cubic morphology with rounded corners, and its Ca2+ion exchange capacity could reach 335.6 mg CaCO3 g−1.
Synthesis and Fluorescence of (E)‐3‐Aryl‐2‐(5‐aryl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl) Acrylonitriles
Authors: Zribi Lazhar , Ismaili Lhassane , Vieira‐Ferreira Luís F. , Ferreira‐Machado Isabel L. , Marco‐Contelles José , Chabchoub Fakher
Published: July 2021

Herein we report the synthesis of (E)‐3‐aryl‐2‐(5‐aryl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl)acrylonitriles 3 a–k whose fluorescence properties have been investigated for the first time. A plausible reaction mechanism has been proposed to explain the total observed stereospecific formation of the E‐isomers of compounds 3 a–k. The fluorescence analysis of compounds 3a‐f has revealed relatively low values of the fluorescence emission quantum yields in a range of ∼1 to 10 %, depending in the nature of the substituents.
Regulation of Novel Multi‐Center Ionic Liquids for Synergetically Catalyzing CO2 Conversion into Cyclic Carbonates
Authors: Chang Jie , Liu Yitao , Su Qian , Liu Lei , Deng Lili , Ying Ting , Dong Li , Luo Zhibin , Li Qian , Cheng Weiguo
Published: July 2021

A family of novel multi‐center ionic liquids (ILs) were designed for the target of efficient transformation of CO2 into cyclic carbonates. The multi‐center structures could expose more active sites than single‐center ones in cycloaddition reaction. Among these ILs, with the chain‐regulation strategy, the multi‐center hexabutylimidazole bromobenzene (BIM‐6) exhibited the performance with 95 % propylene epoxide (PO) conversion and 99 % selectivity (130 °C, 2.5 MPa, ILs amount 0.15 mol%, 1 h). Moreover, the multi‐center ILs showed good reusability after 5 cycles and extensive suitability for different terminal epoxides. Density functional theory (DFT) and noncovalent interactions (NCI) illustrated that hydrogen‐bond formed between the multi‐center ILs and epoxides, together with hindrance of side chain lengths setting bromide free, synergistically activated reactants. Thus, the possible mechanism based on hydrogen‐bond induction and hindrance regulation was proposed. This study provides a new approach for development of highly efficient ILs in the green chemical process.
A Comprehensive Overview on Advanced Sensing Applications of Functional Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs)
Authors: Fathima Fasna P. H. , Sasi Sreesha
Published: July 2021

This review intends to encapsulate the advanced developments in the field of sensors based on MOF materials. MOFs possess structural tunability and vast surface area, which are vital for the development of efficient sensors. The energy transfer schemes within the frameworks and their light‐harvesting capacity make MOFs functional, active and integral components in MOF‐based devices. Their chemically tunable framework with precise host‐guest interactions performs a significant role in specific sensing of biomolecules, small organic molecules and metal ions. Depending on the signal transduction schemes, four major classes of MOF‐based sensing devices have been outlined. Also, the significant challenges and restrictions of this research field have been discussed.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Aryl‐Carbamoylation of Alkene‐Tethered Carbamoyl Chlorides: Access to Diverse Aryl‐Functionalized Oxindoles
Authors: Chen Chen , Liu Liying , Sun Wan , Zhu Bolin
Published: July 2021

Utilizing a palladium‐catalyzed cascade strategy, we have developed an intermolecular aryl‐carbamoylation of unactivated alkenes under mild conditions, allowing for facile access to diverse aryl‐functionalized oxindoles from alkene‐tethered carbamoyl chlorides in moderate to good yields.
Nanoconfined Topochemical Conversion from MXene to Ultrathin Non‐Layered TiN Nanomesh toward Superior Electrocatalysts for Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Huang Xia , Tang Jiayong , Qiu Tengfei , Knibbe Ruth , Hu Yuxiang , Schülli Tobias U. , Lin Tongen , Wang Zhiliang , Chen Peng , Luo Bin , Wang Lianzhou
Published: July 2021

2D non‐layered materials (2DNLMs) featuring massive undercoordinated surface atoms and obvious lattice distortion have shown great promise in catalytic/electrocatalytic applications, but their controllable synthesis remains challenging. Here, a new type of ultrathin carbon‐wrapped titanium nitride nanomesh (TiN NM@C) is prepared using a rationally designed nano‐confinement topochemical conversion strategy. The ultrathin 2D geometry with well‐distributed pores offers TiN NM@C plentiful exposed active sites and rapid charge transfer, leading to outstanding electrocatalytic performance tackling the sluggish sulfur redox kinetics in lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs). LSBs employing TiN NM@C electrocatalyst deliver excellent rate capabilities (e.g., 304 mAh g−1 at 10 C), greatly outperforming that of using TiN nanoparticles embedded in carbon nanosheets (TiN NPs@C) as a benchmark. More impressively, a free‐standing electrode for LSBs with a high sulfur loading of 7.3 mg cm−2 is demonstrated, showing a high peak areal capacity of 5.6 mAh cm−2 at a high current density of 6.1 mA cm−2. This work provides a new avenue for the facile and controllable fabrication of 2DNLMs with impressive electrocatalysis for LSBs as well as other energy conversion and storage technologies.
L‐Arg‐Rich Amphiphilic Dendritic Peptide as a Versatile NO Donor for NO/Photodynamic Synergistic Treatment of Bacterial Infections and Promoting Wound Healing
Authors: Zhu Jingwu , Tian Jiang , Yang Chao , Chen Junpeng , Wu Lihuang , Fan Mengni , Cai Xiaojun
Published: July 2021

The development of alternative strategies for the efficient treatment of subcutaneous abscesses that do not require the massive use of antibiotics and surgical intervention is urgently needed. Herein, a novel synergistic antibacterial strategy based on photodynamic (PDT) and NO gas therapy is reported, in which, a PDT‐driven NO controllable generation system (Ce6@Arg‐ADP) is developed with l‐Arg‐rich amphiphilic dendritic peptide (Arg‐ADP) as a carrier. This carrier not only displays superior bacterial association and biofilm penetration performance, but also acts as a versatile NO donor. Following efficient penetration into the interior of the biofilms, Ce6@Arg‐ADP can rapidly produce massive NO via utilizing the H2O2 generated during PDT to oxidize Arg‐ADP to NO and l‐citrulline, without affecting singlet oxygen (1O2) production. The combination of 1O2 and the reactive by‐products of NO offers notable synergistic antibacterial and biofilm eradication effects. Importantly, following efficient elimination of all bacteria from the abscess site, Arg‐ADP can further generate trace quantities of NO to facilitate the angiogenesis and epithelialization of the wound tissues, thereby notably promotes wound healing. Together, this study clearly suggests that Arg‐ADP is a versatile NO donor, and the combination of PDT and NO represents a promising strategy for the efficient treatment of subcutaneous abscesses.
Methylamine Gas Treatment Affords Improving Semitransparency, Efficiency, and Stability of CH3NH3PbBr3‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Singh Ajay , Matteocci Fabio , Zhu Hongwei , Rossi Daniele , Mejaouri Salim , Cacovich Stefania , Auf Der Maur Matthias , Sauvage Frédéric , Gagliardi Alessio , Grätzel Michael , Di Carlo Aldo
Published: July 2021

High bandgap semitransparent solar cells based on CH3NH3PbBr3 perovskites are attractive for building integration, tandem cells, and electrochemical applications. The lack of control of the CH3NH3PbBr3 perovskite growth limit the exploitation of CH3NH3PbBr3‐based perovskite solar cells. Herein, a post‐treatment is carried out after the initial CH3NH3PbBr3 crystallization based on methylamine gas that drastically enhances the perovskite quality leading to a highly crystalline film with improved average visible transmittance (AVT) close to 56%. Opaque devices showed outstanding results in terms of open‐circuit voltage and power conversion efficiency (PCE) reaching 1.54 V and 9.2%, respectively. These achievements are ascribed to a film with reduced morphological defects and better interface quality and reduced nonradiative pathways. For the first time, the fabrication of semitransparent CH3NH3PbBr3‐based solar cells is demonstrated reaching a maximum PCE equal to 7.6%, an AVT of the full stack device of 52%, and an excellent light stability at maximum‐power point tracking.
Overcoming the Challenge of High Surface Recombination in Thin‐Film Photovoltaic Cells Based on Subwavelength Arrays for Elevated Light Trapping
Authors: Prajapati Ashish , Shalev Gil
Published: July 2021

Surface arrays of subwavelength photoactive structures have been demonstrated for photovoltaic (PV) applications with elevated omnidirectional and broadband absorption. However, this approach suffers from an increase in surface recombination and loss of photovoltage. Herein, surface decoration with subwavelength dielectric (SiO2) arrays that provide enhanced light trapping without compromising the photovoltage performance is proposed. An increase of ≈ 50% in broadband absorption is shown in an ultrathin film of 200 nm due to the presence of a top surface SiO2 nanopillar array in comparison with the same film decorated with an optimized antireflective coating of 50 nm of Si3N4. Interestingly, the broadband enhancement is not due to lower reflection, but rather the presence of the arrays forces a considerable lower transmission. The distribution of the optical power flux density suggests that the low transmission is due to appreciable refraction, which is induced by the presence of the dielectric arrays. Finally, the photovoltaic performance is examined for various array geometries and absorber acceptor concentrations and an overall increase of >60% in PV efficiency is calculated for a decorated photovoltaic cell in comparison with a PV cell with an antireflection coating of 50 nm Si3N4.
Experimental Study on Rare Earth and Magnesium Composite Treatment of 49MnVS3 Non‐quenched and Tempered Steel
Authors: Li Yang , Wang Qi , Sun Meng , Chen Chang-Yong , Jiang Zhou-Hua
Published: July 2021

Nowadays, under the context of severe resource shortage, it is urgent to develop non‐quenched and tempered steel. Herein, a new method of combining rare‐earth cerium (Ce) and magnesium (Mg) to treat the 49MnVS3 steel with low oxygen and rather high sulfur is proposed. The inclusions modification, microstructure evolution, and mechanical properties change of 49MnVS3 steel with different Ce and Mg content composite treatment are investigated by optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM)–energy‐dispersive spectrometer (EDS), electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA), and tensile and impact tests. The results indicate that the small spherical Ce–Mn–Mg–O–S composite inclusions replace the Al2O3wrapped MnS composite inclusions and elongated MnS inclusions after Ce and Mg joint treatment. After Ce and Mg composite treatment, the proportion of ferrite is significantly improved. Meanwhile, the interlamellar spacing of pearlite is refined. Attributed to modified inclusions and optimized microstructure, the strength and impact toughness are gradually enhanced. In contrast to Ce–Mg free steel, the impact energy of 4#steel with 0.0122 wt% Ce and 0.0012 wt% Mg addition is increased by 33%. In the current study, the optimal mass fractions of Ce and Mg are 0.0122 and 0.0012 wt%, respectively.
Single Image Dehazing Using Adaptive Sky Segmentation
Authors: Guo Fan , Qiu Junfeng , Tang Jin
Published: July 2021

A new image dehazing algorithm based on adaptive sky region is proposed in this paper, which shows good fidelity in sky region and satisfying visual effect in non‐sky region. For robust sky segmentation, we propose a rough‐to‐fine method that can make a balance between efficiency and accuracy. Considering distribution of haze is inconsistent, we divide the input image into three parts and calculate their atmospheric lights respectively. To solve the problem of invalid dark channel prior, we make an improvement for the transmission estimation. Finally, image fusion is taken as a post processing that can solve the problem of partial darkness and ensure a visual pleasing result. The experimental results for both synthetic and natural hazy images demonstrate that our algorithm performs comparable or even better results than the state‐of‐the‐art methods in terms of various measurement indexes, such as the PSNR, SSIM, and so forth. Besides, the proposed algorithm can be also applied in FPGA platform due to the optimized performance. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Touch‐Talk‐Text: Science Practices and Language for Reading Comprehension
Authors: Grifenhagen Jill F. , Carrier Sarah J. , Scharen Danielle R. , Fiocca Stephanie J.
Published: July 2021

Elementary teachers are tasked with teaching the language and literacy strategies and skills leading to reading comprehension while also teaching disciplinary content that is the subject of texts, frequently with limited instructional time. Prior research demonstrates that an integrated approach to science and literacy instruction featuring authentic, hands‐on science experiences increases student learning. The authors have developed an instructional framework, Touch‐Talk‐Text, for elementary classrooms. This framework emphasizes student engagement in authentic science practices integrated with meaningful science discourse and connected to comprehending science‐related texts to support comprehension. The authors provide two examples of how this framework has been enacted in classrooms, one from lower elementary and one from upper elementary grades, and share strategies for how classroom teachers can implement it into their current science and literacy teaching practices.
Performance of commercial PCR assays to detect toxigenic Clostridioides difficile in the feces of puppies
Authors: Anis Eman , Barnart Denise , Barnard Amanda , Kelly Donna J. , Redding Laurel E.
Published: July 2021

Clostridioides difficile is an important enteric pathogen that causes significant morbidity and mortality in humans. With community‐acquired infections on the rise, it is important to identify reservoirs of the pathogen. Companion animals can be asymptomatic carriers of C. difficile and may therefore represent a reservoir, but epidemiological studies of C. difficile within the pet‐owner unit are needed, along with validated methods to detect C. difficile in both people and animals. The goal of this study was to assess the performance of commercial qPCR assays and a multiplex PCR for C. difficile compared to toxigenic culture. These assays were tested on up to 103 fecal samples from puppies, a population in which the prevalence of C. difficile is the highest. The sensitivities, specificities, positive predictive values and negative predictive values were respectively 84.2%, 87.7%, 61.5%, and 95.9% for the Cepheid GeneXpert; 66.7%, 66.7%, 29.6%, and 90.9% for the DiaSorin Simplexa; and 94.4%, 85.0%, 65.4%, and 98.1%, for the multiplex qPCR. The agreement was highest between the GeneXpert and the multiplex PCR (90.1% agreement, with a kappa statistic of 0.77). For diagnostic purposes, the positive predictive values of the assays were low. However, the high sensitivities of the assays could render them useful for epidemiologic purposes.
Effects of temperature, pH, feed, and fertilizer draw solution concentrations on the performance of forward osmosis process for textile wastewater treatment
Authors: Karunakaran Aghilesh , Mungray Alka A. , Garg Manoj Chandra
Published: July 2021

Water is crucial for enhancing the yield of agricultural land to meet the growing demand. Forward osmosis (FO) is a developing technology that utilizes the natural osmotic gradient of solutions. In this study, fertilizer drawn FO setup was considered by using potassium chloride (KCl) as the draw solution (DS) for treating textile wastewater as the feed solution (FS). This study investigated the effects of FS temperature, pH, and FS and DS concentrations. The performance investigation involved the study in terms of water flux, reverse salt flux, and specific reverse salt flux. DS and FS properties, osmotic potential, and temperature played a vital role in the performance. At 30°C FS temperature, the highest water flux (5.5 LMH) was observed. Reverse salt flux increased due to the increase in solute diffusivity. The highest value of water flux was obtained at a DS of 1.150 M and FS of 1000 mg/L. The permeation of water improved due to the difference in DS and FS concentrations at pH values above 7. The results of this study suggest that KCl as DS has a higher potential for the treatment of textile wastewater at a temperature of 30°C. Additionally, the functional groups attached to the FO membrane were identified through Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic study.

Practitioner points

Treatment of textile wastewater with the use of fertilizer draw solution (KCl) by forward osmosis process as carried out.

The performance was assessed in terms of water flux, reverse salt flux, and specific reverse salt flux.

The effects of feed and fertilizer draw solution concentrations; pH and temperature were evaluated on the performance of FO process.
The effect of iron decorated MWCNTs and iron‐ionic liquid decorated MWCNTs onto thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate
Authors: Kechit Hocine , Belkhiri Samir , Bhakta Arvind Kumar , Trache Djalal , Mekhalif Zineb , Tarchoun Ahmed Fouzi
Published: July 2021

In the present study, the effect of four nanocatalysts, namely, purified multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), MWCNTs functionalized with ionic liquid (MWCNTs‐IL), MWCNTs decorated with iron nanoparticles (Fe‐MWCNTs) and the hybrid Fe‐MWCNTs‐IL on the thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (AP) is highlighted. Firstly, MWCNTs are purified and impregnated under infrared irradiation followed by calcinations to obtain Fe‐MWCNTs. Secondly, a green ionic liquid (IL), based on choline chloride and urea is synthesized and used for the functionalization of MWCNTs and Fe‐MWCNTs to obtain MWCNTs‐IL and Fe‐MWCNTs‐IL, respectively. Subsequently, these nanomaterials at a ratio of 1 wt.% are introduced to AP to assess their catalytic effect using DSC and TG analyses. The obtained results highlight the catalytic effect of the functionalized MWCNTs on the thermal decomposition of AP for which a decrease in decomposition temperature of 10.7, 48.4 and 49.9 °C with an increase in decomposition enthalpy of 56.76, 689.99 and 861.11 J/g for AP supplemented with MWCNTs‐IL, Fe‐MWCNTs and Fe‐MWCNTs‐IL, respectively. Furthermore, the calculation of the kinetic parameters confirms that the best catalytic effect is obtained with the Fe‐MWCNTs‐IL hybrid, revealing the synergistic effect of iron and ionic liquid. This combination allows obtaining the lowest activation energy (∼120 kJ/mol).
“X-8”: An Experimental Interactive Toy to Support Turn-Taking Games in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Özcan Beste , Sperati Valerio , Giocondo Flora , Baldassarre Gianluca
Published: July 2021

Turn-taking is a type of interaction where two individuals alternate a behaviour (e.g. during a conversation). Such competence – which is a foundamental key in the social behaviour – is often compromised in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). Neurodevelopmental therapists report how it is extremely difficult to teach this skill to young ASDs, yet it would be very important. In the current proposal we present an early prototype of interactive toy called X-8: it is a soft, wearable, six-legged octopus able to distinguish between two people, and produce different luminous patterns according to the user who is touching it. The toy can then potentially support therapists in set up sensory-motor games based on turn-taking rules. A first proof of concept is described and possible activities are proposed.
The Once-Only Principle: A Matter of Trust
Authors: Krimmer Robert , Prentza Andriana , Mamrot Szymon , Schmidt Carsten
Published: July 2021

The Single Market is one of the cornerstones of the European Union. The idea to transform it into a Digital Single Market (DSM) was outlined several years ago. The EU has started different initiatives to support this transformation process. One of them is the program Horizon 2020 to support the process from a technical point of view. In parallel to this, initiatives were started to set up a sound legal framework for the DSM. The Single Digital Gateway Regulation (SDGR) is an outcome of these initiatives. The key aspect of the SDGR is the underlying Once-Only Principle (OOP), outlining that businesses and citizens in contact with public administrations have to provide data only once. “The Once-Only Principle Project (TOOP)” is the EU-funded project initiated for research, testing, and implementation of the OOP in Europe. The authors give an overview of the research questions of the different parts of TOOP. Besides that, they introduce the other chapters of this book and what the reader can expect as the content of them.
The Future of the Once-Only Principle in Europe
Authors: Krimmer Robert , Prentza Andriana , Mamrot Szymon , Schmidt Carsten , Cepilovs Aleksandrs
Published: July 2021

The Single Digital Gateway Regulation (SDGR) and the underlying Once-Only Principle (OOP) outline that businesses and citizens in contact with public administrations have to provide data only once. The chapter gives an overview based on the findings of the EU-funded “The Once-Only Principle Project (TOOP)”. The authors summarise the developments related to the once-only principle and the SDGR in Europe. They also outline a vision for the future of the OOP in Europe. The vision is based on the analysis and the key take-aways from the previous chapters of this book. It also highlights the next steps to further improve the technical and legal basis and the chances given by the update of the eIDAS regulation. Furthermore, an opportunity for the sustainability of the OOP and the TOOP is described.
Implementation of the ‘Once-Only’ Principle in Europe – National Approach
Authors: Mamrot Szymon , Rzyszczak Katarzyna
Published: July 2021

The ‘once-only’ principle (OOP) in the context of the public sector means that citizens and businesses supply data only once to a public administration. The role of public administrations is to internally share these data also across borders so that no additional burden falls on citizens and businesses. This paper presents what steps are taken to implement the OOP both on the European and national level. The national approach in European countries towards implementing the OOP is analysed and compared in terms of legislation, strategies and infrastructure. The most important benefits of the OOP are described as well. One of the most important initiatives in Europe to explore and demonstrate the OOP in practice is the TOOP project. The paper presents how TOOP technical solution is practically implemented within three pilot areas: general business mobility, e-procurement, maritime domain.
Warped information and entanglement islands in AdS/WCFT
Authors: Caceres Elena , Kundu Arnab , Patra Ayan K. , Shashi Sanjit
Published: July 2021

Abstract

We use the notion of double holography to study Hawking radiation emitted by the eternal BTZ black hole in equilibrium with a thermal bath, but in the form of warped CFT2 degrees of freedom. In agreement with the literature, we find entanglement islands and a phase transition in the entanglement surface, but our results differ significantly from work in AdS/CFT in three major ways: (1) the late-time entropy decreases in time, (2) island degrees of freedom exist at all times, not just at late times, with the phase transition changing whether or not these degrees of freedom include the black hole interior, and (3) the physics involves a field-theoretic IR divergence emerging when the boundary interval is too big relative to the black hole’s inverse temperature. This behavior in the entropy appears to be consistent with the non-unitarity of holographic warped CFT2 and demonstrates that the islands are not a phenomenon restricted to black hole information in unitary setups.
Electromagnetic albedo of Quantum Black Holes
Authors: Chua Wan Zhen , Afshordi Niayesh
Published: July 2021

Abstract

We compute the albedo (or reflectivity) of electromagnetic waves off the electron-positron Hawking plasma that surrounds the horizon of a Quantum Black Hole. We adopt the “modified firewall conjecture” for fuzzballs [1, 2], where we consider significant electromagnetic interaction around the horizon. While prior work has treated this problem as an electron-photon scattering process, we find that the incoming quanta interact collectively with the fermionic excitations of the Hawking plasma at low energies. We derive this via two different methods: one using relativistic plasma dispersion relation, and another using the one-loop correction to photon propagator. Both methods find that the reflectivity of long wavelength photons off the Hawking plasma is significant, contrary to previous claims. This leads to the enhancement of the electromagnetic albedo for frequencies comparable to the Hawking temperature of black hole horizons in vacuum. We comment on possible observable consequences of this effect.
Proximal humerus fractures (PHFs): comparison of functional outcome 1 year after minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) versus open reduction internal fixation (ORIF)
Authors: Buchmann Laura , van Lieshout Esther M. M. , Zeelenberg Miliaan , den Hartog Dennis , Pfeifer Roman , Allemann Florin , Pape Hans-Christoph , Halvachizadeh Sascha
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Osteosynthetic treatment strategies of PHFs include MIPO or ORIF techniques. The aim of this study was to compare the 1 year outcome following either technique in type B PHFs.

Methods

This study was designed as a retrospective cohort study of patients treated at one academic Level 1 trauma center. Patients from 2009 to 2019 who required surgical treatment of a type B PHF were eligible to be included in this study. Patients with A- or C-type fractures or patients requiring arthroplasty were excluded. All patients were treated with Proximal Humerus Interlocking System (PHILOS) and stratified according the approach into Group MIPO or Group ORIF. Outcome measures include local complications that occurred during hospitalization, nonunion after 12 months, and range of motion after 1 year follow-up.

Results

This study included 149 (75.3%) patients in Group ORIF, and 49 (24.7%) in Group MIPO. The fracture morphology and concomitant injuries were comparable amongst these groups. When compared with Group MIPO, Group ORIF had a 2.6 (95% CI 0.6–11.7) higher risk of suffering from local complications. The rate of postoperative nerve lesions was comparable (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.1–9.7) as was the rate of soft tissue complications (OR 2.0, 95% CI 0.2–17.2). The risk for nonunion was 4.5 times higher (95% 1.1–19.5) in Group ORIF when compared with Group MIPO. Group MIPO had a higher chance of flexion above 90° (OR 8.2, 95% CI 2.5–27.7).

Conclusion

This study provides indications that patients following surgical treatment of PHFs in MIPO technique might have favourable outcome. Large-scale and high-quality studies are warranted to confirm these results.
Molaren-Inzisiven-Hypomineralisation (MIH). Häufigkeit und mögliche Ursachen unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der Ergebnisse aus den Münchner Geburtskohorten GINIplus und LISA
Authors: Kühnisch Jan , Standl Marie , Hickel Reinhard , Heinrich Joachim
Published: July 2021

Die Molaren-Inzisiven-Hypomineralisation (MIH) – mittlerweile auch bekannt unter dem Begriff der Kreidezähne – stellt heute neben der Karies eine häufige Erkrankung der Zähne im Kindes- und Jugendalter dar. Neben den ästhetischen Einschränkungen insbesondere an den Frontzähnen sind Hypersensibilitäten und Schmelzeinbrüche an bleibenden Molaren für die Betroffenen von funktioneller Bedeutung. Während die Häufigkeit der MIH in einer Größenordnung zwischen ~ 10 % und ~ 30 % liegt und gut beschrieben ist, stellt sich die Situation bezüglich der Ursachenforschung unbefriedigend dar. Obwohl in der Vergangenheit Anstrengungen zur Klärung der Ätiologie unternommen wurden, liegt bis in die Gegenwart keine plausible Ätiologiekette vor. Ursachenforschungen sind dabei als methodisch anspruchsvoll zu beurteilen, da diese optimalerweise in prospektiv geplante Geburtskohortenstudien eingebettet sein sollten, welche spätestens mit der Geburt beginnen. Ziel des vorliegenden Beitrages ist es, die klinische Charakteristik der MIH, Häufigkeiten und potenzielle Ursachen unter besonderer Berücksichtigung bereits publizierter Ergebnisse aus den beiden Münchner Geburtskohortenstudien GINIplus und LISA zusammenfassend darzustellen.
Kardiovaskuläre Komplikationen unter Androgenentzugstherapie: Vorteil für Gonadotropin-Releasing-Hormon-Antagonisten? Ein Update
Authors: von Amsberg Gunhild , Thiele Holger , Merseburger Axel
Published: July 2021

Hintergrund

Die Androgendeprivationstherapie (ADT) spielt in der Behandlung des fortgeschrittenen Prostatakarzinoms eine zentrale Rolle. Der zusätzliche Einsatz neuer Medikamente führt sowohl in der hormonsensitiven Situation als auch der Kastrationsresistenz zu einem verlängerten Gesamtüberleben. Ein dadurch bedingter, langjähriger Einsatz der ADT rückt mögliche Komplikationen in den Vordergrund. Dies gilt insbesondere für kardiovaskuläre Ereignisse.

Ziel der Arbeit

Das Ziel der Arbeit war die Prüfung der aktuellen Datenlage zu möglichen Unterschieden des kardiovaskulären Risikoprofils von Gonadotropin-Releasing-Hormon- (GnRH-)Agonisten und GnRH-Antagonisten.

Methoden

Narrativer Bericht basierend auf einem Expertenkonsens, unterstützt von einer Literaturrecherche in PubMed (MEDLINE) und den Abstract Datenbanken von ASCO und ESMO zwischen Januar 2015 und 2021. Berücksichtigt wurden für den Behandlungsalltag bedeutsame Metaanalysen, vergleichenden randomisierte klinische Studien (RCT) und „real world data“ (RWD). Die Studienauswahl wurde hinsichtlich der klinischen Relevanz für den Praxisalltag vorgenommen.

Ergebnisse

Es wurden drei für die Thematik relevante Metaanalysen, zwei prospektive RCT sowie drei RWD-Publikationen identifiziert. Dabei zeigt sich übereinstimmend ein Vorteil für GnRH-Antagonisten mit einer geringeren Inzidenz kardiovaskulärer Ereignisse im Vergleich zu GnRH-Agonisten. Lediglich eine RWD-Untersuchung berichtet über eine vergleichbare Komplikationsrate mit beiden Substanzgruppen.

Schlussfolgerung

Die GnRH-Antagonisten weisen ein geringeres Risiko für das Auftreten kardiovaskulärer Ereignisse als GnRH-Agonisten auf. Eine Risikominimierung sollte durch Berücksichtigung bekannter kardiovaskulärer Risikofaktoren vor Therapieeinleitung vorgenommen werden.
An improved Z-source inverter with high voltage boost ability
Authors: Gan Shihong , Shi Weifeng
Published: July 2021

An improved high voltage boost Z-source inverter topology is proposed to improve voltage boost ability. Compared to the conventional Z-source inverter, it can produce very high voltage boost with a short shoot-through duty ratio, the voltage stress on Z-source capacitors and inverter-bridge is greatly reduced, and has inherent limitation to inrush current at startup. The addition of a input capacitor and an active switch allows the current in the Z source network to flow in the reverse direction, which adapts to a wide range of the load change. Theoretical analysis, the operation principle of the proposed topology and comparison with the conventional topology are explicitly described. Simulation and experimental results are presented to demonstrate the new features.
Alkylated albumin-derived dipeptide C(-HETE)P derivatized by propionic anhydride as a biomarker for the verification of poisoning with sulfur mustard
Authors: Richter Annika , Siegert Markus , Thiermann Horst , John Harald
Published: July 2021

Sulfur mustard (SM) is a banned chemical warfare agent recently used in the Syrian Arab Republic conflict causing erythema and blisters characterized by complicated and delayed wound healing. For medical and legal reasons, the proof of exposure to SM is of high toxicological and forensic relevance. SM reacts with endogenous human serum albumin (HSA adducts) alkylating the thiol group of the cysteine residue C34, thus causing the addition of the hydroxyethylthioethyl (HETE) moiety. Following proteolysis with pronase, the biomarker dipeptide C(-HETE)P is produced. To expand the possibilities for verification of exposure, we herein introduce a novel biomarker produced from that alkylated dipeptide by derivatization with propionic anhydride inducing the selective propionylation of the N-terminus yielding PA-C(-HETE)P. Quantitative derivatization is carried out at room temperature in aqueous buffer within 10 s. The biomarker was found to be stable in the autosampler at 15 °C for at least 24 h, thus documenting its suitability even for larger sets of samples. Selective and sensitive detection is done by micro liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem-mass spectrometry (μLC-ESI MS/MS) operating in the selected reaction monitoring (SRM) mode detecting product ions of the single protonated PA-C(-HETE)P (m/z 379.1) at m/z 116.1, m/z 137.0, and m/z 105.0. The lower limit of detection corresponds to 32 nM SM in plasma in vitro and the limit of identification to 160 nM. The applicability to real exposure scenarios was proven by analyzing samples from the Middle East confirming poisoning with SM.

Graphical abstract
Surgical Resection of Tumors Invading the Inferior Vena Cava at the Hepatic Vein and Thoracic Levels
Authors: Issard Justin , Sa Cunha Antonio , Fabre Dominique , Mitilian Delphine , Mussot Sacha , Mercier Olaf , Boulate David , Fadel Elie
Published: July 2021

Background

Our aim was to describe the results of our program of surgical resection of tumors invading the inferior vena cava (IVC) at the hepatic and thoracic levels. We hypothesized that similar surgical outcomes may be obtained compared to tumor resection below the hepatic vein level if the liver function was preserved.

Methods

We performed a single‐center retrospective study of 72 consecutive patients who underwent surgical resection from 1996 to 2019 for tumors invading the IVC. We compared two groups based on tumor location below (group I/II) or above (group III/IV) the inferior limit of hepatic veins.

Results

Tumor histology was similarly distributed between groups. In group III/IV (n = 35), sterno‐laparotomy was used in 83% of patients, cardiopulmonary bypass in 77%, and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest in 17%; 23% underwent liver resection. Corresponding proportions in group I/II were 3%, 0%, 0%, and 8%. In group III/IV, 4 patients required emergency resection. Mortality on day 30 was 17% (n = 6) in group III/IV and 0% in group I/II (P = 0.01). There was no liver failure among the 66 postoperative survivors and 5 out of 6 patients who died postoperatively presented a preoperative or postoperative liver failure (P < 0.001). Overall survival was not significantly different between groups with a median follow‐up of 15.1 months. R0 resection was achieved in 66% of group I/II and 49% of group III/IV patients (P = 0.03).

Conclusion

Surgical resection of tumors invading the inferior vena cava at hepatic vein and thoracic levels should be reserved to carefully selected patients without preoperative liver failure to minimize postoperative mortality.
The impact of hepatic and renal function on panitumumab exposures in patients with metastatic RAS wild-type colorectal cancer
Authors: Liao Michael Z. , Prenen Hans , Dutta Sandeep , Upreti Vijay V.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Panitumumab is a human monoclonal antibody targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor for the treatment of wild-type RAS metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Currently, no dedicated clinical studies have evaluated the effect of organ impairment on the pharmacokinetics of panitumumab. Here, we present data from late phase studies of panitumumab in patients with mCRC and analyses of the effect of hepatic or renal impairment on the exposure of panitumumab.

Methods

From three multicenter, open-label, phase 2 and phase 3 studies, 349 and 351 patients were included in hepatic and renal function subgroup analyses, respectively. Patients who received IV panitumumab and serum exposures were compared to patients with varying degrees of hepatic and renal organ dysfunction.

Results

The Cmax and Ctrough values for patients with mild (n = 119) and moderate (n = 4) hepatic impairment were within the range of serum concentrations of panitumumab for the normal hepatic function subgroup. The distributions of serum concentration of panitumumab in patients with mild (n = 85) or moderate (n = 19) renal impairment were similar to the serum concentrations of panitumumab in the normal renal function subgroup. Population pharmacokinetic modeling and covariate analysis results were also consistent with lack of any significant effect of renal or hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of panitumumab. Additionally, real-world evidence from case studies of patients with mCRC and severe hepatic or renal impairment, which is a rare patient population to study, indicated lack of clinically relevant differences in exposure of panitumumab compared with patients with mCRC and normal hepatic or renal function.

Conclusions

Mild-to-moderate hepatic or renal dysfunction had no clinically meaningful impact on the pharmacokinetics of panitumumab in patients with mCRC. No dose adjustments for panitumumab are warranted in patients with mCRC with mild-to-moderate hepatic or renal dysfunction.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT00083616, NCT00089635, NCT00113763
Comprehensive comparison of dual-energy computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging for the assessment of bone marrow edema and fracture lines in acute vertebral fractures
Authors: Cavallaro Marco , D’Angelo Tommaso , Albrecht Moritz H. , Yel Ibrahim , Martin Simon S. , Wichmann Julian L. , Lenga Lukas , Mazziotti Silvio , Blandino Alfredo , Ascenti Giorgio , Longo Marcello , Vogl Thomas J. , Booz Christian
Published: July 2021

Objectives

To compare dual-energy CT (DECT) and MRI for assessing presence and extent of traumatic bone marrow edema (BME) and fracture line depiction in acute vertebral fractures.

Methods

Eighty-eight consecutive patients who underwent dual-source DECT and 3-T MRI of the spine were retrospectively analyzed. Five radiologists assessed all vertebrae for presence and extent of BME and for identification of acute fracture lines on MRI and, after 12 weeks, on DECT series. Additionally, image quality, image noise, and diagnostic confidence for overall diagnosis of acute vertebral fracture were assessed. Quantitative analysis of CT numbers was performed by a sixth radiologist. Two radiologists analyzed MRI and grayscale DECT series to define the reference standard.

Results

For assessing BME presence and extent, DECT showed high sensitivity (89% and 84%, respectively) and specificity (98% in both), and similarly high diagnostic confidence compared to MRI (2.30 vs. 2.32; range 0–3) for the detection of BME (p = .72). For evaluating acute fracture lines, MRI achieved high specificity (95%), moderate sensitivity (76%), and a significantly lower diagnostic confidence compared to DECT (2.42 vs. 2.62, range 0–3) (p < .001). A cutoff value of − 0.43 HU provided a sensitivity of 89% and a specificity of 90% for diagnosing BME, with an overall AUC of 0.96.

Conclusions

DECT and MRI provide high diagnostic confidence and image quality for assessing acute vertebral fractures. While DECT achieved high overall diagnostic accuracy in the analysis of BME presence and extent, MRI provided moderate sensitivity and lower confidence for evaluating fracture lines.

Key Points

• In the setting of spinal trauma, dual-energy CT (DECT) is highly accurate in the evaluation of acute vertebral fractures and bone marrow edema presence and extent.

• MRI provides moderate sensitivity and lower diagnostic confidence for the depiction of acute fracture lines, when compared to DECT, which might result in potentially inaccurate and underestimated severity assessment of injuries in certain cases when no fracture lines are visible on MRI.

• DECT may represent a valid imaging alternative to MRI in specific settings of acute spinal trauma and in follow-up examinations, especially in elderly or unstable patients and in cases of subtle or complex orientated fracture lines.
Aerodynamic characteristics of a free-flight scramjet vehicle in shock tunnel
Authors: Tanno Marie , Tanno Hideyuki
Published: July 2021

A multi-component aerodynamic test for an airframe-engine integrated scramjet vehicle model was conducted in the free-piston shock tunnel HIEST. A free-flight force measurement technique was applied to the scramjet vehicle model named MoDKI. A new method using multiple piezoelectric accelerometers was developed based on overdetermined system analysis. Its unique features are the following: (1) The accelerometer’s mounting location can be more flexible. (2) The measurement precision is predicted to be improved by increasing the number of accelerometers. (3) The angular acceleration can be obtained with single-axis translational accelerometers instead of gyroscopes. (4) Through the averaging process of the multiple accelerometers, model natural vibration is expected to be mitigated. With eight model-onboard single-axis accelerometers, the three-component aerodynamic coefficients (Drag, Lift, and Pitching moment) of MoDKI were successfully measured at the angle of attack from 0.7 to 3.4 degrees under a Mach 8 free-stream test flow condition. A linear regression fitting revealed a 95% prediction interval as the measurement precision of each aerodynamic coefficient.

Graphical abstract
Antidepressant effect of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation is not impaired by intake of lithium or antiepileptic drugs
Authors: Hebel T. , Abdelnaim M. A. , Deppe M. , Kreuzer P. M. , Mohonko A. , Poeppl T. B. , Rupprecht R. , Langguth B. , Schecklmann M.
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The effect of concomitant medication on repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) outcomes in depression remains understudied. Recent analyses show attenuation of rTMS effects by antipsychotic medication and benzodiazepines, but data on the effects of antiepileptic drugs and lithium used as mood stabilizers or augmenting agents are sparse despite clinical relevance. Preclinical electrophysiological studies suggest relevant impact of the medication on treatment, but this might not translate into clinical practice. We aimed to investigate the role of lithium (Li), lamotrigine (LTG) and valproic acid (VPA) by analyzing rTMS treatment outcomes in depressed patients.

Methods

299 patients with uni- and bipolar depression treated with rTMS were selected for analysis in respect to intake of lithium, lamotrigine and valproic acid. The majority (n = 251) were treated with high-frequency (10–20 Hz) rTMS of the lDLPFC for an average of 17 treatment sessions with a figure-of-8 coil with a MagVenture system aiming for 110% resting motor threshold, and smaller groups of patients were being treated with other protocols including intermittent theta-burst stimulation and bilateral prefrontal and medial prefrontal protocols. For group comparisons, we used analysis of variance with the between-subjects factor group or Chi-Square Test of Independence depending on the scales of measurement. For post-hoc tests, we used least significant difference (LSD). For differences in treatment effects between groups, we used an ANOVA with the between-subjects factor group (groups: no mood stabilizer, Li, LTG, VPA, Li + LTG) the within-subjects factor treatment (pre vs. post treatment with rTMS) and also Chi-Square Tests of independence for response and remission.

Results

Overall, patients showed an amelioration of symptoms with no significant differences for the main effect of group and for the interaction effect treatment by group. Based on direct comparisons between the single groups taking mood stabilizers against the group taking no mood stabilizers, we see a superior effect of lamotrigine, valproic acid and combination of lithium and lamotrigine for the response and remission rates. Motor threshold was significantly and markedly higher for patients taking valproic acid.

Conclusion

Being treated with lithium, lamotrigine and valproic acid had no relevant influence on rTMS treatment outcome. The results suggest there is no reason for clinicians to withhold or withdraw these types of medication from patients who are about to undergo a course of rTMS. Prospective controlled work on the subject is encouraged.
Intraocular fluid biomarkers (liquid biopsy) in human diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Midena Edoardo , Frizziero Luisa , Midena Giulia , Pilotto Elisabetta
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This article aims to review the impact of detecting and quantifying intraocular biomarkers (liquid biopsy) in both aqueous and vitreous humor in eyes of people affected by diabetes mellitus.

Methods

This is a detailed review about aqueous and/or vitreous humor sampling in human diabetic eyes for proteomic and/or metabolomic analysis contributing to the understanding of the pathophysiology and treatment effects of diabetic retinopathy.

Results

Aqueous and vitreous humor molecular biomarkers proved to be directly correlated to each other and valuable to study retinal conditions. Moreover, proteomic and metabolomic analysis showed that the biomarkers of neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, and vasculopathy are detectable in intraocular fluids and that their concentration changes in different stages of disease, and in response to treatment of all diabetic retinopathy aspects, mainly diabetic macular edema and proliferative retinopathy.

Conclusions

Liquid biopsy offers the possibility to improve our knowledge of intraocular eye disease induced by diabetes mellitus. The exact quantification of intraocular biomarkers contributes to the precision medicine approach even in the diabetic retinopathy scenario. The diffusion of this approach should be encouraged to have quantifiable information directly from the human model, which may be coupled with imaging data.