bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial distribution of severe rainstorms over India and their associated areal raindepthsSpatial distribution of severe rainstorms over India and their associated areal raindepths
Authors: DHAR O. N. , NANDARGI SHOBHA
Published: January 2022

Spatial distribution of 97 severe rainstorms of India which occurred during the period 1880 to 1990 was examined, by plotting this data over large-scale base maps of the country , It was found that excepting a few rainstorms, most of these rainstorms, have preferred zones of occurrence. These zones have been demarcated and their boundaries are found to correspond with the orographic boundaries of the region where these zones occur. Also, the isohyetal patterns drawn on the basis of DAD data of these rainstorms for different size areas and durations have shown that within each of the rainstorm zones, there are areas or cells of heavy rainfall which need to be taken care of while transposing rainstorms from one area to another for obtaining design storm estimates.
HARMONIC ANALYSIS AND MODELLING OF ANNUAL SOIL TEMPERATURE VARIATIONS
Authors: LIAKATAS A.
Published: January 2022

Harmoni c analysi s using se ries is applied to th e annual variation s of so il tem pe rature From th esurface down to I III depth. TIle fir st harmo nic alon e expla ins about 99% of the variation .II is also shO\\TI th at heat conduction is nor valid in a soil med iuIIIunder exothermic conditions. especially in th euppermost layer of abom 20 em. as neither the thermal properties. exp ressed by the damping depth (D), nor th e meansoil temperature (nremai n constant with depth . and th e am plitude ofoscilla tio n (.4:) does nOI vary strictly expcnen rially.Thi s is as sumed to be con sider ably reduced soil moisture of thi s in compari son with deeper layers,Finally. cons truction of a mod el to predict mon thly or ten-d ay period mean soil temper atures is based' onwr-at h e r vari ab les (difference between precipitation and pan evaporation), providing an ind ex for the soil moisturede ficit and an est imate of D. and overcomes the difficulties of ch angi ng T and A: with depth.
RAINFALL VARIATIONS ALONG THE TEESTA VALLEY IN MOUNTAINOUS SLOPE OF SIKKIM
Authors: SAMUI R. P.
Published: January 2022

The mean weekly rainfall and iu rate oCchanee al Tadona and Ga~t. h ave been analysed toHJ: d ates of onset and withdrawal of southwest monsoon. The study attem pts to anal)'IC broad upecU oC raWaiVprecipitation di etributicn during th e four seaso ns. Th e importance oCorogra phy (or the rainfall in the mountainoUsvalley ha s been brought out. Th e study is based on da ta of 12 stations and of va ryina period of 4-25 yean.RainfaU over this mount ainous slope is found mono-modal with 8 maximum in Jul,...Aueult. Rainfall in thevalley shows sirikina: dilference in pa tterns even aLsho rt distance (4 km) and situated at a bieber altitude. Ra infallO~T station s in the valley increased up to 2000m esl and then decrease sharply. The central part ofthe valley with anaverage altitude of ISOQ.2000 m asl receives about 2~300 em of rainfall durina aouthwest monsoon season
THE CLUSTER ANALYSIS APPROACH FOR CLASSIFICATION OF ANDHRA PRADESH ON THE BASIS OF RAINFALL
Authors: KULKARNI B. S. , REDDY D. DAMODARA
Published: January 2022

The ave rage linkllBe method of cluster analys is was appl ied (or classifying the di stricts of AndhraPrad esh on th e b asis of monthly rainfall recorded. in diff ere nt sea so ns . The meth od of cluste ring h as the ad va nta geof least subjectivity in clu ster formati on unlike th at of the pri nci pa l components method. Th e a nalysis was ca rriedou t seasonwise on th e basis of 30 )~ ars of monthly rain fa ll data covering th e yea rs 1961-62 to 1~91. [I was foundthat the di stri cts ofAndh ra Prad esh ca n be classified iuto 5 10 7 d usters which depend on the seaso n. Ea st and WeslGod avari districts of coastal Andh ra region exh ib ited a similar pat tern in the rainfall of all the seasons: cert ain d istricts c f Telangan a region also exh ibi ted a simila r pan crn in rai nfall of all th e seasons excepting the 5Ou th~SI mensoon.In ce rtai n clu eters . there was 8 representetien u t'Ji.oJlril,,·u from all th e three ~ii ons of the Stale, Seesonwiseclust erings a re also di scu ssed .
Dynamical-Empirical forecast for the Indian monsoon rainfall using the NCEP Coupled Modelling System – Application for real time monsoon forecast
Authors: PATTANAIK D.R. , TYAGI AJIT , KUMAR ARUN
Published: January 2022

The performance of the National Centre for Environmental Prediction’s (NCEP) operational coupled modeling system known as the Climate Forecast System (CFS) is evaluated for the prediction of all India summer monsoon rainfall (AISMR) during June to September (JJAS). The evaluation is based on the hindcast initialized during March, April and May with 15 ensemble members each for 25 years period from 1981 to 2005.The CFS’s hindcast climatology during JJAS of March (lag-3), April (lag-2) and May (lag-1) initial conditions show mostly an identical pattern of rainfall similar to that of observed climatology with both the rainfall maxima (over the west-coast of India and over the head Bay of Bengal region) well captured, with a signification correlation coefficient between the forecast and observed climatology over the Indian monsoon region (bounded by 50°E-110°E and 10°S-35°N) covering Indian land mass and adjoining oceanic region. Although the CFS forecast rainfall is overestimated over the Indian monsoon region, the land only rainfall amount is underestimated compared to observation. The skill of the prediction of monsoon rainfall over the Indian land mass is found to be relatively weak, although it is significant at 95% with a correlation coefficient (CC) of 0.44 with April ensembles.By using CFS predicted JJAS rainfall over the regions of significant CCs, a hybrid dynamical-empirical model is developed for the real time prediction of AISMR, whose skill is found to be much higher (CC significant above 99% level) than the raw CFS forecasts. The dynamical-empirical hybrid forecast applied on real time for 2009 and 2010 monsoons are found to be much closer to the observed AISMR. Thus, when the hybrid model is used there is a correction not only to the sign of the actual forecast as in the case of 2009 monsoon but also to its magnitude and hence can be used as a better tool for the real time prediction of AISMR.
Use of discriminant function analysis for forecasting crop yield
Authors: AGRAWAL RANJANA , HAS CHANDRA , ADITYA KAUSTAV
Published: January 2022

The present paper deals with use of discriminant function analysis for developing wheat yield forecast model for Kanpur (India). Discriminant function analysis is a technique of obtaining linear/Quadratic function which discriminates the best among populations and as such, provides qualitative assessment of the probable yield. In this study, quantitative forecasts of yield have been obtained using multiple regression technique taking regressors as weather scores obtained through discriminant function analysis. Time series data of 30 years (1971-2000) have been divided into three categories: congenial, normal and adverse, based on yield distribution. Taking these three groups as three populations, discriminant function analysis has been carried out. Discriminant scores obtained from this have been used as regressors in the modelling. Various strategies of using weekly weather data have been proposed. The models have been used to forecast yield in the subsequent three years 2000-01 to 2002-03 (which were not included in model development). The approach provided reliable yield forecast about two months before harvest.
Observational aspects including weather radar for tropical cyclone monitoring
Authors: RAGHAVAN S.
Published: January 2022

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In the context of the Forecast Demonstration Project (FDP) of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a review is made of the various observational facilities and techniques which can be deployed, for the detection tracking and understanding of tropical cyclones.  The real test of the efforts in terms of technology is the performance of our forecasts in an operational context. The paper discusses the steps needed in this regard.
Aquatecture of a city park: A methodological experiment in the design process for Belgrade linear park
Authors: Stojković-Minić Miloš
Published: January 2022

The aim of this paper is to interpret the term Aquatecture in the design process for Zone 8 of Belgrade Linear Park, as a case study for understanding the concept and methodology used, as well as their application in operational architectural and urban practice. The paper describes the methodological procedure applied to structuring the space using water, with the aim of designing ambiences inspired by nature. This methodological experiment is illustrated with graphical representations of the process itself, in which the colors and shapes of water are analyzed through the observation of water droplets under the microscope. The research hypothesis is that one drop of water contains information important for architectural activities, and therefore the research offers a set of procedures and methods that can be applied and controlled through the creative act of coloring and shaping, or more precisely the creation of Spatial Images. The methodological procedure in the research can be described as poetic and artistic, at the same time containing a scientific element in the analysis and observation of the water sample under the microscope. All other visual perceptual observations and results in the interpretation of the observed environment and the water droplets, as well as their colors and shapes, are offered as extremely intuitive. The research is presented in the form of a Tableau consisting of seven parts and a set of photographs, drawings and images, as well as tone maps (color palette), according to which the results are applied through Spatial Images. Spatial images are interpreted as Ambience inspired by nature, at a specific location: Zone 8 of Belgrade Linear Park, as a case study for researching this methodological procedure. The data obtained in this way is applied in the structuring of the park's aquatecture and pavilions. The waterflows in the park itself are explained in the text, as well as the spatial structures such as the landscape fountain on the square and the main park pavilion itself, which is interpreted as a one-of-a-kind House of water. Therefore, as a product of the work, an environmental project inspired by nature is offered as the Aquatecture of Zone 8 in Belgrade Linear Park, illustrating the practical application of water as a methodological tool, and an inspiration in the processes of architectural design and water space structuring. In this way, the case study of the Conceptual Architectural and Urban Design of Zone 8 of the Linear Park in Belgrade offers new interpretations and understandings of Aquatecture in Belgrade in professional practice. More precisely, it re-examines ways of applying and understanding the concepts of the Blue Green Dream (BGD) and Nature Based Solutions (NBS) in shaping public spaces in the city.
Impact of Lockdown due to COVID-19 Pandemic on Undergraduate Ophthalmology Teaching: Students’ and Teachers’ Perspective
Authors: Matheen Adnan , Sruthi G , Shinisha DP , Chokkalingam Shankar , Arumugam Balaji , Gnaneswaran Premnath
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has forced the union government to close the educational institutions. The medical teaching had to go digital. Digital learning has advantages but not without limitations and challenges. Aim: To analyse the impact of lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic on undergraduate ophthalmology teaching and learning and explore the perception of faculty and students regarding its advantages, limitations and recommendations. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted among ophthalmology faculty and pre final year students from six government and 11 private medical colleges through online Google questionnaire which was initially validated by three faculty and 10 students had Cronbach’s value-0.70. Based on the pilot study, the questionnaire was modified. Valid responses were entered in data sheets and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 was used to analyse the data. Chi-square test was used to find out the association between symptoms post online classes and duration of online classes and gender of the students. The p-values <0.05 were considered significant. Results: Approximately, 1500 students and 65 faculty were approached online. Out of which there were 1015 respondents, 967 valid responses were considered for analysis (929 students and 38 faculty). More than 70% of the students used mobile phone for attending online classes. Zoom (≈40%) and Google meet (≈30%) were the commonly used applications. A total of 79.3% of medical students and 84.2% of faculty disagreed to continue with online classes after the pandemic. Lack of face- to-face interaction, practical demonstration and on-campus life, connectivity issues and eye symptoms post online classes were the major disadvantages. Availability of gadgets, internet connectivity and self-discipline were the major challenges faced. The ocular symptoms were marginally more in females (p-value >0.05) and in those with extended duration of attending online classes (p-value <0.05). Post online lectures, none of the faculty had non-ocular symptoms. In comparison to the medical students, 78.9% of the faculty (30/38) always maintained proper screen position whereas 64.4% of students (598/929) did not always maintain proper screen position. Conclusion: According to this study, learners preferred less duration of online classes, improvement in e-teaching quality with interactive lectures and demonstration. Teachers preferred improved infrastructure and network connectivity. This study gives an insight of students and teachers mentality towards the online ophthalmology classes.
CAR‐Ts: new perspectives in cancer therapy
Authors: Abrantes Rafaela , Duarte Henrique O. , Gomes Catarina , Wälchli Sébastien , Reis Celso A.
Published: January 2022

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T‐cell therapy is a promising anticancer treatment that exploits the host's immune system to fight cancer. CAR‐T cell therapy relies on immune cells being modified to express an artificial receptor targeting cancer‐specific markers, and infused into the patients where they will recognize and eliminate the tumour. Although CAR‐T cell therapy has produced encouraging outcomes in patients with haematologic malignancies, solid tumours remain challenging to treat, mainly due to the lack of cancer‐specific molecular targets and the hostile, often immunosuppressive, tumour microenvironment. CAR‐T cell therapy also depends on the quality of the injected product, which is closely connected to CAR design. Here, we explain the technology of CAR‐Ts, focusing on the composition of CARs, their application, and limitations in cancer therapy, as well as on the current strategies to overcome the challenges encountered. We also address potential future targets to overcome the flaws of CAR‐T cell technology in the treatment of cancer, emphasizing glycan antigens, the aberrant forms of which attain high tumour‐specific expression, as promising targets for CAR‐T cell therapy.
Ergothioneine in the brain
Authors: Ishimoto Takahiro , Kato Yukio
Published: January 2022

Ergothioneine (ERGO) is a naturally occurring food‐derived antioxidant. Despite its extremely hydrophilic properties, ERGO is easily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and distributed to various organs, including the brain. This is primarily because its entry into brain cells is mediated by the ERGO‐specific transporter OCTN1/SLC22A4. Octn1 gene knockout mice do not have ERGO in the brain, due to the absence of OCTN1 in neurons, neural stem cells, and microglia. The existence of OCTN1 and uptake of ERGO into the brain parenchymal cells may suggest that ERGO and its transporter play a pivotal role in brain function. Oral administration of ERGO has antidepressant activities in mice. Furthermore, repeated oral administration of ERGO and ERGO‐containing food extract tablets enhance memory function in mice and humans, respectively. ERGO also protects against stress‐induced sleep disturbance and neuronal injury induced by amyloid β in rodents. In vitro observations suggest that ERGO benefits brain function through both its antioxidative activity and by promoting neurogenesis and neuronal maturation. This review discusses the possible involvement of ERGO in brain function and its potential therapeutic properties.
Green Synthesis of Lactone‐Based Conjugated Polymers for n‐Type Organic Electrochemical Transistors
Authors: Wang Yazhou , Zeglio Erica , Wang Lewen , Cong Shengyu , Zhu Genming , Liao Hailiang , Duan Jiayao , Zhou Yecheng , Li Zhengke , Mawad Damia , Herland Anna , Yue Wan , McCulloch Iain
Published: January 2022

As new and better materials are implemented for organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs), it becomes increasingly important to adopt more economic and environmentally friendly synthesis pathways with respect to conventional transition‐metal‐catalyzed polymerizations. Herein, a series of novel n‐type donor–acceptor‐conjugated polymers based on glycolated lactone and bis‐isatin units are reported. All the polymers are synthesized via green and metal‐free aldol polymerization. The strong electron‐deficient lactone‐building blocks provide low‐lying lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) and the rigid backbone needed for efficient electron mobility up to 0.07 cm2 V−1 s−1. Instead, polar atoms in the backbone and ethylene glycol side chains contribute to the ionic conductivity. The resulting OECTs exhibit a normalized maximum transconductance gm,norm of 0.8 S cm−1 and a μC* of 6.7 F cm−1 V−1 s−1. Data on the microstructure show that such device performance originates from a unique porous morphology together with a highly disordered amorphous microstructure, leading to efficient ion‐to‐electron coupling. Overall, the design strategy provides an inexpensive and metal‐free polymerization route for high‐performing n‐type OECTs.
Highly Polarized Light Emission of Monolayer WSe2 Coupled with Gap‐Plasmon Nanocavity
Authors: Zhu Guangpeng , Shi Xiuqi , Huang Guangyan , Liu Kaizhen , Wei Wei , Guo Qianqian , Du Wei , Wang Tao
Published: January 2022

As contemporary star materials, 2D monolayer semiconductors have drawn huge research interests owing to their striking electrical and optical properties, rendering them ideal candidates as building blocks for novel optoelectronic devices. Towards light emitting devices with extended functions, it is necessary to manipulate the polarization of light emission from monolayer semiconductors. However, most of these monolayer semiconductors exhibit no or very limited polarization sensitivity inherited from their structural anisotropy, making it challenging to develop highly polarized light sources. Herein, by embedding monolayer tungsten diselenide (WSe2) in a nanowire‐on‐film nanocavity, highly polarized light emission is demonstrated, featuring degree of polarization (DoP) of ≈99%. The highly anisotropic light emission originates from the near‐field coupling between the WSe2 monolayer with the polarization‐dependent gap plasmons of the nanowire‐on‐film nanocavity. Moreover, as the width of the nanowire essentially defines the gap‐plasmon resonance of the nanowire‐on‐film nanocavity, the anisotropy of the highly polarized light emission is systematically tuned by changing the nanowire width. The findings pave the way for engineering anisotropic optical properties of monolayer semiconductors and will boost the development of functional polarization‐sensitive 2D optoelectronic devices.
Self‐Driving Perovskite Dember Photodetectors
Authors: Cao Guoyang , Zhang Haoyu , Wang Changlei , Li Xiaofeng
Published: January 2022

Dember effect is a potential mechanism for realizing self‐driving photodetection. Unfortunately, both the optoelectronic prediction and the experimental realization of the Dember photodetectors (DPDs) are challenging. Based on perovskite material, the theoretical prediction, numerical simulation, and experimental fabrication of the self‐driving DPDs are performed. The theoretical prediction presents a complete expression of the Dember‐voltage for the detailed physical explanation and manipulation of the Dember effect. The device‐level optoelectronic simulation is further realized to show a good agreement with the theoretical prediction, allowing to detailedly explore the excitation conditions of the Dember mechanism and obtain the optoelectronic responses of the device. The device simulation shows that the proposed DPD is sensitive to a broadband spectrum (300–750 nm), with a photo‐responsivity of 3.8 A W–1, specific detectivity of 3.5 × 109 Jones, and response time of 0.13 µs at 500 nm wavelength and zero‐bias. Moreover, the photodetector is successfully fabricated and the Dember‐driving photocurrent and photoelectric response are observed, with the realized photo‐responsivity, specific detectivity, and rise (decay) time up to 0.11 A W–1, 1.3 × 109 Jones, and 2.6 (3.5) µs, respectively. The study provides a promising option for the realization of high‐performance self‐driving photodetectors via Dember‐effect.
Regulatory Variant rs2535629 in ITIH3 Intron Confers Schizophrenia Risk By Regulating CTCF Binding and SFMBT1 Expression
Authors: Li Yifan , Ma Changguo , Li Shiwu , Wang Junyang , Li Wenqiang , Yang Yongfeng , Li Xiaoyan , Liu Jiewei , Yang Jinfeng , Liu Yixing , Li Kaiqin , Li Jiao , Huang Di , Chen Rui , Lv Luxian , Xiao Xiao , Li Ming , Luo Xiong‐Jian
Published: January 2022

Genome‐wide association studies have identified 3p21.1 as a robust risk locus for schizophrenia. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Here a functional regulatory variant (rs2535629) is identified that disrupts CTCF binding at 3p21.1. It is confirmed that rs2535629 is also significantly associated with schizophrenia in Chinese population and the regulatory effect of rs2535629 is validated. Expression quantitative trait loci analysis indicates that rs2535629 is associated with the expression of three distal genes (GLT8D1, SFMBT1, and NEK4) in the human brain, and CRISPR‐Cas9‐mediated genome editing confirmed the regulatory effect of rs2535629 on GLT8D1, SFMBT1, and NEK4. Interestingly, differential expression analysis of GLT8D1, SFMBT1, and NEK4 suggested that rs2535629 may confer schizophrenia risk by regulating SFMBT1 expression. It is further demonstrated that Sfmbt1 regulates neurodevelopment and dendritic spine density, two key pathological characteristics of schizophrenia. Transcriptome analysis also support the potential role of Sfmbt1 in schizophrenia pathogenesis. The study identifies rs2535629 as a plausibly causal regulatory variant at the 3p21.1 risk locus and demonstrates the regulatory mechanism and biological effect of this functional variant, indicating that this functional variant confers schizophrenia risk by altering CTCF binding and regulating expression of SFMBT1, a distal gene which plays important roles in neurodevelopment and synaptic morphogenesis.
Modeling of gas–liquid flow in a rotating packed bed using an Eulerian multi‐fluid approach
Authors: Zhang Wei , Xie Peng , Li Yuxing , Zhu Jianlu
Published: January 2022

Rotating packed beds (RPBs) are ideal candidates for CO2 removal from offshore natural gas due to their good mass transfer performance and significant volume savings. This article proposes an Eulerian multi‐fluid approach to simulate the gas–liquid flow in RPBs. Three new multiphase drag force models are constructed based on single‐phase drag force models for wire mesh packings. Based on the Eulerian multi‐fluid approach, a new RPB simulation framework is developed. The predicted results using the new simulation framework with the new drag force models are compared with the experimental data. When using the Kołodziej model and the modified Kołodziej model, the predicted overall liquid holdup shows good agreement with the experimental data with errors less than 20%. In addition, the pressure drop predicted by these three models are reasonable compared with the experimental data. This work lays a foundation for RPB simulation of gas–liquid flow using Eulerian multi‐fluid approach.
Sustained, complete response to pexidartinib in a patient with CSF1R‐mutated Erdheim–Chester disease
Authors: Abeykoon Jithma P. , Lasho Terra L. , Dasari Surendra , Rech Karen L. , Ranatunga Wasantha K. , Manske Michelle K. , Tischer Alexander , Ravindran Aishwarya , Young Jason R. , Tobin William Oliver , Flanagan Eoin P. , Nowakowski Kevin E. , Ruan Gordon J. , Shah Mithun V. , Bennani Nabila Nora , Vassallo Robert , Ryu Jay H. , Koster Matthew J. , Davidge‐Pitts Caroline J. , Patnaik Mrinal M. , Wu Xiaosheng , Witzig Thomas E. , Goyal Gaurav , Go Ronald S. ,   Mayo Clinic‐University of Alabama at Birmingham Histiocytosis Working Group
Published: January 2022

Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD) is a histiocytic neoplasm that predominantly harbors mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway variants. MAPK inhibitors typically are effective treatments, but mutations outside the MAPK pathway, such as CSF1R variants, may cause refractory ECD. We describe a patient with a novel somatic mutation in CSF1R (CSF1RR549_E554delinsQ) that resulted in refractory ECD affecting the central nervous system. Cell model studies, RNA sequencing analysis, and in silico protein modeling suggested that she had a gain‐of‐function mutation occurring in a region critical for autoinhibition. The patient was treated with pexidartinib, a CSF1R inhibitor, and has had a complete clinical and metabolic response lasting more than 1.5 years to date. To our knowledge, this is the first report to describe successful treatment of a patient with ECD by using an agent that specifically targets CSF1R. This case also highlights the critical role of individualized molecular profiling to identify novel therapeutic targets in ECD.
HLA 1–3 antigen‐mismatched related peripheral blood stem cells transplantation using low‐dose antithymocyte globulin versus unrelated cord blood transplantation
Authors: Wada Fumiya , Watanabe Mizuki , Konuma Takaaki , Okabe Motohito , Kobayashi Shinichi , Uchida Naoyuki , Ikegame Kazuhiro , Tanaka Masatsugu , Sugio Yasuhiro , Mukae Junichi , Onizuka Makoto , Kawakita Toshiro , Kuriyama Takuro , Takahashi Satoshi , Fukuda Takahiro , Nakano Nobuaki , Sawa Masashi , Kimura Takafumi , Ichinohe Tatsuo , Atsuta Yoshiko , Kanda Junya ,   the Donor/Source Working Group of the Japan Society for Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
Published: January 2022

Little information is available regarding whether unrelated cord blood transplantation (CBT) or an HLA 1–3 antigen–mismatched related donor peripheral blood stem‐cell transplantation (PBSCT) using low‐dose anti‐thymocyte globulin (ATG) is superior as an alternative transplantation for patients who lack an HLA‐matched sibling or unrelated donor. Therefore, we evaluated 7861 patients with hematologic malignancies (aged 0 to 70 years) who received either a CBT without ATG (CBT‐no ATG, n = 7034) or an HLA 1‐3 antigen–mismatched related donor PBSCT using low‐dose ATG (PBSCT‐ATG, n = 827). CBT‐no ATG was associated with significantly better overall survival (OS) than the use of a PBSCT‐ATG (hazard ratio [HR], 0.77; p < .001), although PBSCT‐ATG patients with an HLA 1 antigen‐mismatch showed OS comparable to that in the CBT‐no ATG group. Neutrophil and platelet engraftment was significantly delayed, whereas the incidences of nonrelapse mortality, and severe graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) were significantly lower in the CBT‐no ATG group. The incidences of relapse and chronic GVHD were comparable between these donors. In conclusion, CBT‐no ATG may be a better alternative than HLA‐mismatched related donor PBSCT using low‐dose ATG. Notably, HLA 2‐3 antigen mismatch‐related transplantation with low‐dose ATG had significant adverse effects on transplantation outcomes.
Size at birth and accelerometer‐measured physical activity or sedentary behavior in healthy term‐born adults
Authors: Garay Jessica Leigh , Barreira Tiago V. , Wang Qiu , Brutsaert Tom D.
Published: January 2022

The present study investigated the relationship between birth size and activity patterns. One hundred and twenty‐four adults wore accelerometers for 7 days. Birth weight was adjusted for gestational age (AdjBW). The overall association between time spent in MVPA/day and AdjBW was not significant (B = 5.64, p = .09). MVPA/day increased by 7.02 min (p = .02) in participants 18–21 years (N = 42) and decreased by 10.8 min (p = .02) in participants 22–40 years (N = 33) per unit increase in AdjBW. The effect of birth size on adult physical activity depends on age.
Transcobalamin receptor deficiency in seven asymptomatic patients ascertained through newborn screening
Authors: Pappas Kara B. , Younan Marissa , Conway Robert
Published: January 2022

We report seven cases from our clinic with transcobalamin receptor deficiency (TCRD). None of our cases have experienced health issues or metabolic decompensation. All have experienced typical growth and development throughout childhood, with our oldest case now 10 years old. Every case has had normalization of initial biochemical abnormalities following parenteral hydroxocobalamin administration. Several cases had trace elevations of methylmalonic acid throughout childhood, all which normalized without further hydroxocobalamin administration. Population data from our state's newborn screening program suggest the incidence of TCRD is comparable to other metabolic disorders associated with elevations of C3 acylcarnitine including propionic academia, isolated methylmalonic academia and combined methylmalonic academia and hyperhomocysteinemia due to cobalamin metabolism disorders. Based on the generally benign nature of this condition, we assert that TCRD may be considered an incidental finding on newborn screen. However, additional long‐term data are needed to ascertain the long term outcomes of children identified with TCRD.
Surgical repair of nasal septal perforations: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Fermin Janmaris Marin , Bui Roger , McCoul Edward , Alt Jeremiah , Avila‐Quintero Victor J. , Chang Brent A. , Yim Michael T.
Published: January 2022

Background

A wide variety of techniques for the surgical repair of nasal septal perforations (NSPs) have been described. Surgical management of NSPs can be broadly divided into open versus endonasal approaches, with additional variables involving unilateral or bilateral flaps, use of grafts, and placement of splints. The objective of this study was to compare surgical approaches and their outcomes.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL Plus databases were examined for patients undergoing NSP repair. English‐language studies reporting surgical management of patients with the primary diagnosis of NSP were included. Outcome measures of interest included perforation size, surgical approach characteristics, and success rate defined as complete closure assessed by surgeon postoperatively. The quality of articles was assessed with the methodological index for nonrandomized studies (MINORS) criteria. A random‐effects model was used to calculate pooled proportions for the different outcomes.

Results

The electronic database search yielded 1076 abstracts for review. A total of 64 articles met the inclusion criteria, with 1591 patients: 1127 (71%) underwent an endonasal approach and 464 (29%) an open approach. The median (range) MINORS score was 10 (5–12) out of 16 points. Overall, 91% of patients had total closure (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.89–0.93,p < 0.01), with moderate heterogeneity between studies (I2 = 42.03%). There was no difference in closure success between open and endonasal approaches. Use of bilateral versus unilateral flaps, interposition grafts, and intranasal splints and packing were not associated with differences in outcomes.

Conclusion

Nasal septal perforation surgical repair success rates are comparable regardless of technique.
Synthesis of 20‐Membered Macrocyclic Pseudo‐Natural Products Yields Inducers of LC3 Lipidation
Authors: Niggemeyer Georg , Knyazeva Anastasia , Gasper Raphael , Corkery Dale , Bodenbinder Pia , Holstein Julian J. , Sievers Sonja , Wu Yao‐Wen , Waldmann Herbert
Published: January 2022

Design and synthesis of pseudo‐natural products (PNPs) through recombination of natural product (NP) fragments in unprecedented arrangements enables the discovery of novel biologically relevant chemical matter. With a view to wider coverage of NP‐inspired chemical and biological space, we describe the combination of this principle with macrocycle formation. PNP‐macrocycles were synthesized efficiently in a stereoselective one‐pot procedure including the 1,3‐dipolar cycloadditions of different dipolarophiles with dimeric cinchona alkaloid‐derived azomethine ylides formed in situ. The 20‐membered bis‐cycloadducts embody 18 stereocenters and an additional fragment‐sized NP‐structure. After further functionalization, a collection of 163 macrocyclic PNPs was obtained. Biological investigation revealed potent inducers of the lipidation of the microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) protein, which plays a prominent role in various autophagy‐related processes.
Diverse myopathological features in the congenital myasthenia syndrome with GFPT1 mutation
Authors: Jiang Kaiyan , Zheng Yilei , Lin Jing , Wu Xiaorong , Yu Yanyan , Zhu Min , Fang Xin , Zhou Meihong , Li Xiaobing , Hong Daojun
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Mutations in the GFPT1 gene are associated with a particular subtype of congenital myasthenia syndrome (CMS) called limb‐girdle myasthenia with tubular aggregates. However, not all patients show tubular aggregates in muscle biopsy, suggesting the diversity of myopathology should be further investigated.

Methods

In this study, we reported two unrelated patients clinically characterized by easy fatigability, limb‐girdle muscle weakness, positive decrements of repetitive stimulation, and response to pyridostigmine. The routine examinations of myopathology were conducted. The causative gene was explored by whole‐exome screening. In addition, we summarized all GFPT1‐related CMS patients with muscle biopsy in the literature.

Results

Pathogenic biallelic GFPT1 mutations were identified in the two patients. In patient one, muscle biopsy indicated vacuolar myopathic changes and atypical pathological changes of myofibrillar myopathy characterized by desmin deposits, Z‐disc disorganization, and electronic dense granulofilamentous aggregation. In patient two, muscle biopsy showed typical myopathy with tubular aggregates. Among the 51 reported GFPT1‐related CMS patients with muscle biopsy, most of them showed tubular aggregates myopathy, while rimmed vacuolar myopathy, autophagic vacuolar myopathy, mitochondria‐like myopathy, neurogenic myopathy, and unspecific myopathic changes were also observed in some patients. These extra‐synaptic pathological changes might be associated with GFPT1‐deficiency hypoglycosylation and altered function of muscle‐specific glycoproteins, as well as partly responsible for the permanent muscle weakness and resistance to acetylcholinesterase inhibitor therapy.

Conclusions

Most patients with GFPT1‐related CMS had tubular aggregates in the muscle biopsy, but some patients could show great diversities of the pathological change. The myopathological findings might be a biomarker to predict the prognosis of the disease.
Nonlinear Potential Scanning as a Novel Approach to Calculation of the Time Variable Galvanic Displacement Reaction Rate
Authors: Patsay Ihor , Maizelis Zakhar , Maizelis Antonina
Published: January 2022

A novel approach to estimate the rate of galvanic displacement reaction was proposed, which allowed the most accurate calculation of the displacement process rate at each moment of time by exact reproducing the open‐circuit conditions. We applied the method for mild steel samples immersed in pyrophosphate‐citrate electrolyte for Cu−Zn alloy electrodeposition. The time dependences of parameters of steel‐electrolyte interaction are obtained. The rate of steel dissolution in open circuit conditions increases by 1.6–2.9 times as compared with corrosion in pyrophosphate‐citrate medium. The results of our approach were verified by an independent experiment using anodic stripping of the obtained deposits.
Pressurized Sample Infusion
Authors: Thomas Gilian T. , Donnecke Sofia , Chagunda Ian C. , McIndoe J. Scott
Published: January 2022

Invited for this month's cover is the group of Scott McIndoe at the University of Victoria (Canada). The cover picture shows a pressurized reaction vessel with tubing leading out of the flask. That tubing normally leads directly into an electrospray ionization mass spectrometer, where the mass‐to‐charge ratio and relative abundance of the solution phase ions are measured. These data can be used to generate chronograms for each solution species, shown here in the form of a reactant diminishing with first order kinetics, accompanied by the formation of a product ion. Read the full text of their Review at 10.1002/cmtd.202100068.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Carbon‐Supported Cobalt Nitride Nano‐Catalyst
Authors: Rubab Anosha , Baig Nadeem , Sher Muhammad , Ali Mubarak , Ul‐Hamid Anwar , Jabeen Naila , Khan Latif U. , Sohail Manzar
Published: January 2022

Transition metal nitrides have attracted great interest among the non‐noble catalysts employed in heterogeneous catalytic processes because of their exceptional stability and catalytic potential. However, the approach for their synthesis has remained a tremendous challenge. This study presents the synthesis of Co4N/C catalyst fabricated at 400, 600, and 800 °, symbolized as Co4N/C‐400, Co4N/C‐600, Co4N/C‐800, respectively. The characterization of fabricated catalysts is carried out through various advanced analytical techniques. As prepared nano‐catalyst Co4N/C shows remarkable catalytic efficiency in terms of low activation energy (Ea=3.038×10−1 KJ mol−1), fast conversion rate (Kapp=0.2884 s−1), and 97.57% conversion efficiency. Moreover, it also exhibits excellent stability and reusability because of its metallic characteristics. The outstanding catalytic activity of the catalyst is the combined effect in which the Co4N nanoparticles acted as active sites, and the carbon support doped with nitrogen provided an expressway for the transport of electrons required for catalytic reduction. Moreover, the designed catalyst is immobilized on the cellulose membrane filter support, to demonstrate the catalytic reduction of 4‐nitrophenol to 4‐aminophenol. We envision that our work would facilitate the fabrication of cobalt nitrides‐based nano‐catalysts for a wide range of industrial applications.
An Improved Protocol for the Morita‐Baylis‐Hillman Reaction Allows Unprecedented Broad Synthetic Scope
Authors: Camilo Nilton S. , Santos Hugo , Zeoly Lucas A. , Fernandes Fábio S. , Rodrigues Manoel T. , Silva Thiago S. , Lima Samia R. , Serafim José Cláudio , de Oliveira Aline S. B. , Carpanez Arthur G. , Amarante Giovanni W. , Coelho Fernando
Published: January 2022

The Morita‐Baylis‐Hillman (MBH) reaction has been stablished as an important C−C bond‐forming transformation between carbonyl‐containing compounds and activated olefins. However, the slow reaction rate usually observed with electron‐rich electrophilic partners hinders a more widespread use of this reaction. In order to overcome this drawback, the effects of several Brønsted acids on the rate of DABCO‐catalyzed MBH reactions were evaluated. The protocol is operationally simple, involving neat and open‐flask conditions, and is compatible with a wide range of reagents. We suggest a general acid catalysis mechanism to be responsible for the rate increase. The synthetic versatility of the MBH adducts is exemplified with a two‐steps diastereoselective synthesis of the natural product (±)‐sitophilure. We hope this acid‐mediated protocol to have potential use as a general methodology for the MBH reaction.
Silk−Fibroin‐Supported Palladium Catalyst for Suzuki‐Miyaura and Ullmann Coupling Reactions of Aryl Chlorides
Authors: Rizzo Giorgio , Albano Gianluigi , Sibillano Teresa , Giannini Cinzia , Musio Roberta , Omenetto Fiorenzo G. , Farinola Gianluca M.
Published: January 2022

Recently, we have reported the preparation of a silk fibroin‐supported Palladium catalyst (Pd/SF) and its use in the Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling of aryl iodides. Since its synthetic applicability and structural features are still far from being fully explored, a deeper investigation is reported here. Pd/SF is tested as a catalyst for the Suzuki‐Miyaura and Ullmann coupling reactions of aryl chlorides, in H2O/EtOH solvent mixture under atmospheric conditions. Starting from the analysis of the products of the Pd/SF promoted Ullmann reactions of poly‐haloarenes, we can hypothesize the existence of catalytic pockets where monoatomic palladium species can form stable complexes with SF. To shed light on this hypothesis, Pd/SF is characterized by Wide‐Angle X‐ray Scattering (WAXS) analysis, which supports the supposition of catalytic pockets. Finally, using a computational model developed by Molecular Mechanic Energy Minimization we have estimated the dimension of the catalytic pocket of Pd/SF (about 15 Å), in good agreement with the experimental results.
Numerical simulation of airflow in naturally ventilated attics for different attic geometries
Authors: B. M. Preetham , K. H. Jyothiprakash , A. S. Mridu Sai Charan , Gowda Ashwath
Published: January 2022

Attic geometry and ventilation in a different attic geometry play a very important role in residential building energy performance. To evaluate the effect of ventilation ratio and vent balance on attic performance, a two‐dimensional finite volume model is employed to simulate the buoyancy‐driven turbulent ventilation and heat transfer in an attic space of different geometries like gable, gambrel, and saltbox roofs of residential buildings under winter conditions. The impact of ventilation ratio on ventilating airflow rate, heating load rate, and rate of heat gained is investigated for all three types of roof geometries. The model under consideration consists of a passive ventilation system with a ridge and soffit vent. Meshing is done by using ANSYS Workbench and numerical simulations are carried out by using ANSYS FLUENT 19 analysis software. The effect of passive ventilation on ridge‐vent attic performance is evaluated in this study. Ventilation ratios for soffit vents ranging from 1/400 to 1/25 are investigated. Convection boundary conditions are used for the attic walls to account for thermal resistances of ceilings and roofs. In addition, the performance of these vented attics is compared to the heat transfer in a sealed attic. The results show that the symmetrical airflow pattern exists in a vented attic, in contrast to the asymmetrical airflow patterns found in a sealed attic. From the study, it is evident that an increase in ventilation ratio reduces attic heating load irrespective of the increase in ventilation airflow rate. The rate of airflow increases with an increase in ventilation ratio in all three types of roof geometries that is gable, gambrel, and saltbox roofs. In the case of gable roof configuration, increasing the ventilation ratio from 1/200 to 1/100 results in an increase in ventilating mass flow of 75%, while an increase of ventilation ratio from 1/50 to 1/25 only increases the ventilating mass flow by 40%. In the case of gable roofs increasing ventilation ratio from 1/200 to 1/100 results in a 20% decrease in attic heating, whereas an increase in ventilation ratio from 1/50 to 1/25 results in a 10% decrease in attic heating.
Single cell sorting of young yeast based on label‐free fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy
Authors: Kong Yawei , Zhao Yinping , Yu Yao , Su Wenhua , Liu Zhijia , Fei Yiyan , Ma Jiong , Mi Lan
Published: January 2022

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is an attractive organism used in the fermentation industry and is an important model organism for virus research. The ability to sort yeast cells is important for diverse applications. Replicative aging of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae is accompanied by metabolic changes that are related to an essential coenzyme, reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate) (NAD(P)H). Here, a single cell sorting method based on fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) and laser‐induced forward transfer (LIFT) was implemented for the first time. The aging level of yeast was determined based on the FLIM by NAD(P)H, which was a label‐free and noninvasive method for studying individual cells. Then, young and active yeast cells were sorted by the LIFT system at the single cell level. During the entire experiment, a sterile and humid environment was maintained to ensure the activity of cells. The high viability of sorted cells was achieved by the LIFT combining with FLIM.
Spinal malformation − A biochemical analysis using congenital kyphosis rats
Authors: Shimokawa Noriaki , Takahashi Itsuki , Iizuka Haku
Published: January 2022

Spinal kyphosis involves the vertebrae curving excessively backward, beyond their physiological curvature. Although the normal structure of the spinal vertebrae is extremely important for maintaining posture, the normal function of the thoracic and abdominal organs, and cosmetics, our knowledge concerning the pathogenesis of this disease is lacking. Furthermore, the responsible gene has not yet been identified. In this short review, we summarize the current state of kyphosis research and introduce the molecular and cellular mechanisms associated with the pathogenesis of this disease, based on findings obtained using rats that develop kyphosis.
Early platelet elevation after complete remission as a prognostic marker of favourable outcomes in favourable‐ and intermediate‐risk acute myeloid leukaemia: A retrospective study
Authors: Wen Xiaoling , Li Ruoqi , Zhang Xialin , Zhai Jiahong , Yang Suxia , Wang Yaozi , Tan Yanhong , Xu Zhifang , Yang Linhua , Zhang Ruijuan
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Platelet (PLT) recovery after chemotherapy is associated with the prognosis of patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). This study aimed to explore the prognostic significance of early high PLT values in patients with de novo non‐M3 AML who achieved first complete remission (CR).

Methods

A total of 206 patients with de novo non‐M3 AML were analysed in this retrospective study. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the optimal PLT cut‐off. The overall survival (OS) and relapse‐free survival (RFS) were assessed using Kaplan‐Meier and Cox regression analyses.

Results

312×109/L was confined as the cut‐off of the PLT count. The estimated 3‐year OS of patients with high PLT was higher than that of their counterparts (72.3% vs. 34.6%, p = 0.001). In subgroup analysis, patients with high PLT had better OS in the favourable‐ and intermediate‐risk (non‐adverse‐risk) AML (p = 0.001). The estimated 3‐year RFS for the high and low PLT groups was 75.1% and 45.7% respectively (p = 0.078). Multivariate analyses revealed that high PLT count was an independent favourable variable for OS (HR = 0.264, p < 0.001) and RFS (HR = 0.375, p = 0.011) in the non‐adverse‐risk group.

Conclusion

Our results showed that early high PLT count recovery at first CR in non‐adverse‐risk AML patients is a positive prognostic marker for survival outcomes.