bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibitors of Bcl-2 and Bruton’s tyrosine kinase synergize to abrogate diffuse large B-cell lymphoma growth in vitro and in orthotopic xenotransplantation models
Authors: Bertram Katrin , Leary Peter John , Boudesco Christophe , Fullin Jonas , Stirm Kristin , Dalal Vineet , Zenz Thorsten , Tzankov Alexandar , Müller Anne
Published: November 2021

Numerous targeted therapies have been developed for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, but the results of late-stage clinical trials were mostly disappointing and have led to very few new regulatory approvals. Here, we use single and combinatorial drug response profiling to show that the combined inhibition of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and of the tyrosine kinase BTK with the small molecules venetoclax and ibrutinib efficiently kills DLBCL cells in vitro. High Bcl-2 expression due to either BCL2 amplifications or translocations, in conjunction with chronic active BCR signaling accurately predict responses to dual Bcl-2/BTK inhibition. Orthotopic xenotransplantation and patient-derived xenograft models confirm that the combinatorial is superior to single-agent treatment in reducing the lymphoma burden. Combinatorial treatment further efficiently overcomes both primary and acquired resistance to venetoclax, which we could link to reduced expression of the Bcl-2 family members Bcl-XL and Bcl-2A1 under ibrutinib. We found in a Swiss DLBCL cohort that ~15% of patients are projected to respond to the venetoclax/ibrutinib combination based on their high Bcl-2 expression and nuclear NF-κB localization. Our data show that drug sensitivities exposed by drug response profiling can be attributed to specific mutational signatures and immunohistochemical biomarkers, and point to combined Bcl-2/BTK inhibition as a promising therapeutic strategy in DLBCL.
Metabolic characterization and metabolism-score of tumor to predict the prognosis in prostate cancer
Authors: Zhang Yanlong , Liang Xuezhi , Zhang Liyun , Wang Dongwen
Published: November 2021

Tumor metabolism patterns have been reported to be associated with the prognosis of many cancers. However, the metabolic mechanisms underlying prostate cancer (PCa) remain unknown. This study aimed to explore the metabolic characteristics of PCa. First, we downloaded mRNA expression data and clinical information of PCa samples from multiple databases and quantified the metabolic pathway activity level using single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA). Through unsupervised clustering and principal component analyses, we explored metabolic characteristics and constructed a metabolic score for PCa. Then, we independently validated the prognostic value of our metabolic score and the nomogram based on the metabolic score in multiple databases. Next, we found the metabolic score to be closely related to the tumor microenvironment and DNA mutation using multi-omics data and ssGSEA. Finally, we found different features of drug sensitivity in PCa patients in the high/low metabolic score groups. In total, 1232 samples were analyzed in the present study. Overall, an improved understanding of tumor metabolism through the characterization of metabolic clusters and metabolic score may help clinicians predict prognosis and aid the development of more personalized anti-tumor therapeutic strategies for PCa.
Adults who microdose psychedelics report health related motivations and lower levels of anxiety and depression compared to non-microdosers
Authors: Rootman Joseph M. , Kryskow Pamela , Harvey Kalin , Stamets Paul , Santos-Brault Eesmyal , Kuypers Kim P. C. , Polito Vince , Bourzat Francoise , Walsh Zach
Published: November 2021

The use of psychedelic substances at sub-sensorium ‘microdoses’, has gained popular academic interest for reported positive effects on wellness and cognition. The present study describes microdosing practices, motivations and mental health among a sample of self-selected microdosers (n = 4050) and non-microdosers (n = 4653) via a mobile application. Psilocybin was the most commonly used microdose substances in our sample (85%) and we identified diverse microdose practices with regard to dosage, frequency, and the practice of stacking which involves combining psilocybin with non-psychedelic substances such as Lion’s Mane mushrooms, chocolate, and niacin. Microdosers were generally similar to non-microdosing controls with regard to demographics, but were more likely to report a history of mental health concerns. Among individuals reporting mental health concerns, microdosers exhibited lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress across gender. Health and wellness-related motives were the most prominent motives across microdosers in general, and were more prominent among females and among individuals who reported mental health concerns. Our results indicate health and wellness motives and perceived mental health benefits among microdosers, and highlight the need for further research into the mental health consequences of microdosing including studies with rigorous longitudinal designs.
Transcriptome analysis reveals that long noncoding RNAs contribute to developmental differences between medium-sized ovarian follicles of Meishan and Duroc sows
Authors: Li Mengxun , Liu Yi , Xie Su , Ma Lipeng , Zhao Zhichao , Gong Hongbin , Sun Yishan , Huang Tao
Published: November 2021

Ovulation rate is an extremely important factor affecting litter size in sows. It differs greatly among pig breeds with different genetic backgrounds. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can regulate follicle development, granulosa cell growth, and hormone secretion, which in turn can affect sow litter size. In this study, we identified 3554 lncRNAs and 25,491 mRNAs in M2 follicles of Meishan and Duroc sows. The lncRNA sequence and open reading frame lengths were shorter than mRNAs, and lncRNAs had fewer exons, were less abundant, and more conserved than protein-coding RNAs. Furthermore, 201 lncRNAs were differentially expressed (DE) between breeds, and quantitative trait loci analysis of DE lncRNAs were performed. A total of 127 DE lncRNAs were identified in 119 reproduction trait-related loci. In addition, the potential target genes of lncRNAs in cis or trans configurations were predicted. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis revealed that some potential target genes were involved in follicular development and hormone secretion-related biological processes or pathways, such as progesterone biosynthetic process, estrogen metabolic process, ovarian steroidogenesis, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Furthermore, we also screened 19 differentially expressed lncRNAs in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway as candidates. This study provides new insights into the roles of lncRNAs in follicular growth and development in pigs.
Delineation guidelines for the lymphatic target volumes in ‘prone crawl’ radiotherapy treatment position for breast cancer patients
Authors: Stouthandel Michael E. J. , Kayser Françoise , Vakaet Vincent , Khoury Ralph , Deseyne Pieter , Monten Chris , Schoepen Max , Remouchamps Vincent , De Caluwé Alex , Janoray Guillaume , De Neve Wilfried , Mazy Stephane , Veldeman Liv , Van Hoof Tom
Published: November 2021

Our recently developed prone crawl position (PCP) for radiotherapy of breast cancer patients with lymphatic involvement showed promising preliminary data and it is being optimized for clinical use. An important aspect in this process is making new, position specific delineation guidelines to ensure delineation (for treatment planning) is uniform across different centers. The existing ESTRO and PROCAB guidelines for supine position (SP) were adapted for PCP. Nine volunteers were MRI scanned in both SP and PCP. Lymph node regions were delineated in SP using the existing ESTRO and PROCAB guidelines and were then translated to PCP, based on the observed changes in reference structure position. Nine PCP patient CT scans were used to verify if the new reference structures were consistently identified and easily applicable on different patient CT scans. Based on these data, a team of specialists in anatomy, CT- and MRI radiology and radiation oncology postulated the final guidelines. By taking the ESTRO and PROCAB guidelines for SP into account and by using a relatively big number of datasets, these new PCP specific guidelines incorporate anatomical variability between patients. The guidelines are easily and consistently applicable, even for people with limited previous experience with delineations in PCP.
Socioeconomic and environmental patterns behind H1N1 spreading in Sweden
Authors: Bota András , Holmberg Martin , Gardner Lauren , Rosvall Martin
Published: November 2021

Identifying the critical factors related to influenza spreading is crucial in predicting and mitigating epidemics. Specifically, uncovering the relationship between epidemic onset and various risk indicators such as socioeconomic, mobility and climate factors can reveal locations and travel patterns that play critical roles in furthering an outbreak. We study the 2009 A(H1N1) influenza outbreaks in Sweden’s municipalities between 2009 and 2015 and use the Generalized Inverse Infection Method (GIIM) to assess the most significant contributing risk factors. GIIM represents an epidemic spreading process on a network: nodes correspond to geographical objects, links indicate travel routes, and transmission probabilities assigned to the links guide the infection process. Our results reinforce existing observations that the influenza outbreaks considered in this study were driven by the country’s largest population centers, while meteorological factors also contributed significantly. Travel and other socioeconomic indicators have a negligible effect. We also demonstrate that by training our model on the 2009 outbreak, we can predict the epidemic onsets in the following five seasons with high accuracy.
Numerical study on a rotational hydraulic damper with variable damping coefficient
Authors: Zhao Huiyong , Wang Baohua , Chen Genfu
Published: November 2021

The rotational hydraulic damper has advantages in the design and control of rotational machines. This paper presents a novel hydraulic rotational damper with the characteristic of adjusting the damping coefficient. It is composed of a shell, a gap, a rotor shaft, sliding vanes, a valve, and a motor, just like a combination of a sliding pump system and a valve driven by a motor. A new cam ring slot designed to guide the radial motion of sliding vanes could reduce friction resistance force, which will also benefit the design of the sliding pump. The damping coefficient model of this damper is established based on dynamic analysis. Series of numerical simulations validate the impact of factors on the damping coefficient. Frictional resistances have little influence on the damping coefficient during most conditions. The total coefficient is positively correlative with the angular velocity and the valve angle. Therefore, changing the valve angle according to the rotor shaft’s angular speed could adjust the damping coefficient.
An inverse method for mechanical characterization of heterogeneous diseased arteries using intravascular imaging
Authors: Narayanan Bharath , Olender Max L. , Marlevi David , Edelman Elazer R. , Nezami Farhad R.
Published: November 2021

The increasing prevalence of finite element (FE) simulations in the study of atherosclerosis has spawned numerous inverse FE methods for the mechanical characterization of diseased tissue in vivo. Current approaches are however limited to either homogenized or simplified material representations. This paper presents a novel method to account for tissue heterogeneity and material nonlinearity in the recovery of constitutive behavior using imaging data acquired at differing intravascular pressures by incorporating interfaces between various intra-plaque tissue types into the objective function definition. Method verification was performed in silico by recovering assigned material parameters from a pair of vessel geometries: one derived from coronary optical coherence tomography (OCT); one generated from in silico-based simulation. In repeated tests, the method consistently recovered 4 linear elastic (0.1 ± 0.1% error) and 8 nonlinear hyperelastic (3.3 ± 3.0% error) material parameters. Method robustness was also highlighted in noise sensitivity analysis, where linear elastic parameters were recovered with average errors of 1.3 ± 1.6% and 8.3 ± 10.5%, at 5% and 20% noise, respectively. Reproducibility was substantiated through the recovery of 9 material parameters in two more models, with mean errors of 3.0 ± 4.7%. The results highlight the potential of this new approach, enabling high-fidelity material parameter recovery for use in complex cardiovascular computational studies.
Structural modification of fentanyls for their retrospective identification by gas chromatographic analysis using chloroformate chemistry
Authors: Valdez Carlos A. , Leif Roald N. , Sanner Robert D. , Corzett Todd H. , Dreyer Mark L. , Mason Katelyn E.
Published: November 2021

The one-step breakdown and derivatization of a panel of nine fentanyls to yield uniquely tagged products that can be detected by Electron Ionization Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (EI-GC-MS) is presented. The method involves the treatment of the synthetic opioids with 2,2,2-trichloroethoxycarbonyl chloride (TrocCl) at 60 °C for 3 h in dichloromethane and furnishes two products from one fentanyl molecule that can be used to retrospectively identify the original opioid. Parameters that were studied and fully optimized for the method included temperature, solvent, nature of scavenging base and reaction time. One of the two resulting products from the reaction bears the trichloroethoxycarbonyl (Troc) tag attached to the norfentanyl portion of the original opioid and greatly aids in the opioid detection and identification process. The methodology has been applied to the chemical modification of a panel of nine fentanyls and in all cases the molecular ion peak for the Troc-norfentanyl product bearing the distinctive trichloroethyl isotopic signature can be clearly observed. The method’s LLOD was determined to be 10 ng/mL while its LLOQ was found to be 20 ng/mL. This methodology represents the first application of chloroformates in the chemical modification of this class of synthetic opioids that are notoriously inert to common derivatization strategies available for GC–MS analysis.
The MHD Newtonian hybrid nanofluid flow and mass transfer analysis due to super-linear stretching sheet embedded in porous medium
Authors: Mahabaleshwar U. S. , Anusha T. , Hatami M.
Published: November 2021

The steady magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) incompressible hybrid nanofluid flow and mass transfer due to porous stretching surface with quadratic velocity is investigated in the presence of mass transpiration and chemical reaction. The basic laminar boundary layer equations for momentum and mass transfer, which are non-linear partial differential equations, are converted into non-linear ordinary differential equations by means of similarity transformation. The mass equation in the presence of chemical reaction is a differential equation with variable coefficients, which is transformed to a confluent hypergeometric differential equation. The mass transfer is analyzed for two different boundary conditions of concentration field that are prescribed surface concentration (PSC) and prescribed mass flux (PMF). The asymptotic solution of concentration filed for large Schmidt number is analyzed using Wentzel-Kramer-Brillouin (WKB) method. The parameters influence the flow are suction/injection, superlinear stretching parameter, porosity, magnetic parameter, hybrid nanofluid terms, Brinkman ratio and the effect of these are analysed using graphs.
Further insight into the global variability of the OCA2-HERC2 locus for human pigmentation from multiallelic markers
Authors: Suarez Philippe , Baumer Karine , Hall Diana
Published: November 2021

The OCA2-HERC2 locus is responsible for the greatest proportion of eye color variation in humans. Numerous studies extensively described both functional SNPs and associated patterns of variation over this region. The goal of our study is to examine how these haplotype structures and allelic associations vary when highly variable markers such as microsatellites are used. Eleven microsatellites spanning 357 Kb of OCA2-HERC2 genes are analyzed in 3029 individuals from worldwide populations. We found that several markers display large differences in allele frequency (10% to 35% difference) among Europeans, East Asians and Africans. In Europe, the alleles showing increased frequency can also discriminate individuals with (IrisPlex) predicted blue and brown eyes. Distinct haplotypes are identified around the variants C and T of the functional SNP rs12913832 (associated to blue eyes), with linkage disequilibrium r2 values significant up to 237 Kb. The haplotype carrying the allele rs12913832 C has high frequency (76%) in blue eye predicted individuals (30% in brown eye predicted individuals), while the haplotype associated to the allele rs12913832 T is restricted to brown eye predicted individuals. Finally, homozygosity values reach levels of 91% near rs12913832. Odds ratios show values of 4.2, 7.4 and 10.4 for four markers around rs12913832 and 7.1 for their core haplotype. Hence, this study provides an example on the informativeness of multiallelic markers that, despite their current limited potential contribution to forensic eye color prediction, supports the use of microsatellites for identifying causing variants showing similar genetic features and history.
Grain size dependent high-pressure elastic properties of ultrafine micro/nanocrystalline grossular
Authors: Zhang Jin S. , Irifune T. , Hao M. , Zhang D. , Hu Y. , Tkachev S. , Dera P. , Chen J. , Jiang Ying-Bing , Brearley Adrian J. , Bass J. D. , Prakapenka V.
Published: November 2021

We have performed sound velocity and unit cell volume measurements of three synthetic, ultrafine micro/nanocrystalline grossular samples up to 50 GPa using Brillouin spectroscopy and synchrotron X-ray diffraction. The samples are characterized by average grain sizes of 90 nm, 93 nm and 179 nm (hereinafter referred to as samples Gr90, Gr93, and Gr179, respectively). The experimentally determined sound velocities and elastic properties of Gr179 sample are comparable with previous measurements, but slightly higher than those of Gr90 and Gr93 under ambient conditions. However, the differences diminish with increasing pressure, and the velocity crossover eventually takes place at approximately 20–30 GPa. The X-ray diffraction peaks of the ultrafine micro/nanocrystalline grossular samples significantly broaden between 15–40 GPa, especially for Gr179. The velocity or elasticity crossover observed at pressures over 30 GPa might be explained by different grain size reduction and/or inhomogeneous strain within the individual grains for the three grossular samples, which is supported by both the pressure-induced peak broadening observed in the X-ray diffraction experiments and transmission electron microscopy observations. The elastic behavior of ultrafine micro/nanocrystalline silicates, in this case, grossular, is both grain size and pressure dependent.
Annual body mass index gain and risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in a subsequent pregnancy
Authors: Tano Sho , Kotani Tomomi , Ushida Takafumi , Yoshihara Masato , Imai Kenji , Nakano-Kobayashi Tomoko , Moriyama Yoshinori , Iitani Yukako , Kinoshita Fumie , Yoshida Shigeru , Yamashita Mamoru , Kishigami Yasuyuki , Oguchi Hidenori , Kajiyama Hiroaki
Published: November 2021

Weight gain during interpregnancy period is related to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). However, in interpregnancy care/counseling, the unpredictability of the timing of the next conception and the difficulties in preventing age-related body weight gain must be considered while setting weight management goals. Therefore, we suggest considering the annual change in the body mass index (BMI). This study aimed to clarify the association between annual BMI changes during the interpregnancy period and HDP risk in subsequent pregnancies. A multicenter retrospective study of data from 2009 to 2019 examined the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of HDP in subsequent pregnancies. The aORs in several annual BMI change categories were also calculated in the subgroups classified by HDP occurrence in the index pregnancy. This study included 1,746 pregnant women. A history of HDP (aOR, 16.76; 95% confidence interval [CI], 9.62 − 29.22), and annual BMI gain (aOR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.76 − 3.01) were independent risk factors for HDP in subsequent pregnancies. An annual BMI increase of ≥ 1.0 kg/m2/year was related to HDP development in subsequent pregnancies for women without a history of HDP. This study provides data as a basis for interpregnancy care/counseling, but further research is necessary to validate our findings and confirm this relationship.
Sound level context modulates neural activity in the human brainstem
Authors: Herrmann Björn , Yasmin Sonia , Araz Kurdo , Purcell David W. , Johnsrude Ingrid S.
Published: November 2021

Optimal perception requires adaptation to sounds in the environment. Adaptation involves representing the acoustic stimulation history in neural response patterns, for example, by altering response magnitude or latency as sound-level context changes. Neurons in the auditory brainstem of rodents are sensitive to acoustic stimulation history and sound-level context (often referred to as sensitivity to stimulus statistics), but the degree to which the human brainstem exhibits such neural adaptation is unclear. In six electroencephalography experiments with over 125 participants, we demonstrate that the response latency of the human brainstem is sensitive to the history of acoustic stimulation over a few tens of milliseconds. We further show that human brainstem responses adapt to sound-level context in, at least, the last 44 ms, but that neural sensitivity to sound-level context decreases when the time window over which acoustic stimuli need to be integrated becomes wider. Our study thus provides evidence of adaptation to sound-level context in the human brainstem and of the timescale over which sound-level information affects neural responses to sound. The research delivers an important link to studies on neural adaptation in non-human animals.
The response of potato tuber yield, nitrogen uptake, soil nitrate nitrogen to different nitrogen rates in red soil
Authors: Liu Kailou , Du Jiangxue , Zhong Yijun , Shen Zhe , Yu Xichu
Published: November 2021

Nutrient-deficient red soil found in the southern region of China is increasingly being used for potato crops to meet the demand for this staple food. The application of nitrogen fertilizer is necessary to support the production of higher tuber yields; however, the links between nitrate nitrogen and the nitrogen balance in red soil are unknown. A field experiment was conducted in Jiangxi Province in 2017 and 2018 to determine the effects of different nitrogen application rates, 0 kg ha−1 (N0), 60 kg ha−1 (N60), 120 kg ha−1 (N120), 150 kg ha−1 (N150), 180 kg ha−1 (N180), 210 kg ha−1 (N210), and 240 kg ha−1 (N240, the highest rate used by local farmers), on potatoes growing in red soil. Data on tuber yield, crop nitrogen uptake, and the apparent nitrogen balance from the different treatments were collected when potatoes were harvested. Additionally, the content and stock of nitrate nitrogen at different soil depths were also measured. Nitrogen fertilization increased tuber yield but not significantly at application rates higher than 150 kg ha−1. We estimated that the threshold rates of nitrogen fertilizer application were 191 kg ha−1 in 2017 and 227 kg ha−1 in 2018, where the respective tuber yields were 19.7 and 20.4 t ha−1. Nitrogen uptake in potato in all nitrogen fertilization treatments was greater than that in N0 by 61.2–237% and 76.4–284% in 2017 and 2018, respectively. The apparent nitrogen surplus (the amount of nitrogen remaining from any nitrogen input minus nitrogen uptake) increased with increasing nitrogen application rates. The nitrate nitrogen stock at a soil depth of 0–60 cm was higher in the 210 and 240 kg ha−1 nitrogen rate treatments than in the other treatments. Moreover, double linear equations indicated that greater levels of nitrogen surplus increased the nitrate nitrogen content and stock in soils at 0–60 cm depths. Therefore, we estimate that the highest tuber yields of potato can be attained when 191–227 kg ha−1 nitrogen fertilizer is applied to red soil. Thus, the risk of nitrate nitrogen leaching from red soil increases exponentially when the apparent nitrogen balance rises above 94.3–100 kg ha−1.
Detrimental Effects of Industrial Wastewater on the Environment and Health
Authors: Chauhan Nitin , Gola Sunil , Surabhi  , Sharma Shivangi , Khantwal Sukirti , Mehrotra Rekha , Arya Arvind , Bharti Randhir Kumar , Dey Priyadarshini , Tyagi Pankaj Kumar , Gola Deepak
Published: November 2021

With an increase in the discharge of contaminated wastewater from point and non-point/diffuse sources, a great burden has been inflicted upon the environment. Although treatment systems are available for industry, due to the high cost, inadequate/untreated wastewater is discharged directly into near-by water sources. Major contaminants, such as heavy metals, dyes, pesticides, antibiotics, endocrine disrupting compounds and microplastics etc. are posing a risk to aquatic and human life. Studies have highlighted a decrease in the levels of dissolved oxygen, biomagnification of toxic components and increased nutrient content (leading to eutrophication) in receiving water bodies. Further, irrigation with contaminated water cause many negative effects, especially on soil properties i.e. low carbon mineralization, low microbial biomass, poor enzyme activities and change in soil pH and cation exchange capacity (CEC). In humans, severe side effects, including neurotoxicity, mutations, cancer and disruption of endocrine and reproductive systems has been reported. This chapter summarizes the detrimental effects of various contaminants on environment and human health.
Treatment and Management Strategies for Industrial Wastewater
Authors: Yadu Aparna , Sahariah Biju Prava , Anandkumar J.
Published: November 2021

Water is a precious element on earth which was easily available in pure form a few decades ago. However, with the passage of time the scenario has changed and procurement of clean as well as safe water is become a challenging issue worldwide. This is mainly due to the huge amount of wastewater generated from various industrial activities which has gained significant attention all over the world. Industry uses a huge amount of freshwater for various activities and releases wastewater as a by-product. The wastewater produced from industry is of major environmental concern owing to the toxic and hazardous nature of pollutants which are a serious threat to the ecosystem. It is therefore imperative to make a concerted effort towards the reduction of water utilization and treatment of wastewater to make it reusable and suitable for safe discharge into the environment. This chapter focuses on providing information about various futuristic industrial wastewater treatments and management strategies to make it environmentally benign.
Mineralization of Recalcitrant Pollutants from Wastewater by Solar Nano-photocatalysis
Authors: Ashar Ambreen , Noor Sadia , Bhutta Zeeshan Ahmad
Published: November 2021

In recent years, the application of the process of heterogeneous photocatalytic water purification has gained great attention due to its effectiveness for degradation and mineralization of recalcitrant organic compounds as well as the possibility of utilizing the solar UV and visible-light spectrum. Heterogeneous photocatalysis, supported by semiconductors and solar energy, is considered a promising process to solve the global crisis of energy supply and to alleviate environmental pollution. In recent years, numerous semiconducting materials have been investigated to explore their photocatalytic potentials. This era of scientific revolution demands the fabrication of efficient nanomaterials with the utmost capability of resolving environmental issues to offset increasingly damaging anthropogenic effects. These nanomaterials basically have non-xenobiotic attributes and they are fabricated following particular zero-waste and green methods. Advanced oxidation processes using metal oxide-based materials have played a vital role in the complete mineralization of recalcitrant pollutants from industrial wastewater.
Comparison of Biological and Physicochemical Techniques for Treatment of Coffee Wastewater – A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Muthukumar H. , Shanmugam M. K. , Dash S. S. , Gummadi S. N.
Published: November 2021

Massive amounts of (anthropogenic) organic compounds have been released into the environment by industry, generating serious issues of environmental pollution. Currently, pharmaceuticals and personal care products are known as emerging organic pollutants and are the main contaminants of concern. Among the pollutants, caffeine is one of the obstinate compounds with a noxious effect on biological systems and it is necessary to eliminate caffeine from water. Caffeine is also considered an anthropogenic indicator for contamination of surface waters. In the past few years, physicochemical (advanced oxidation process, adsorption and filtration) and biological wastewater treatment methods have been developed and extensively used for the removal of pollutants. Currently, biological treatments and nanoparticle mediated photocatalytic processes have gained popularity for the removal of caffeine with high efficiency and low capital requirement. This chapter attempts to explain the challenges, pros, cons, multifaceted operation and time consumption involved in the physicochemical and biological treatment of caffeine.
Lightweight MWCNT/hollow mesoporous carbon/WPU composite material with excellent electromagnetic shielding performance
Authors: Wang Muqun , Qin Yuxuan , Gao Wei , Liang Shaofeng
Published: November 2021

The interaction between electromagnetic waves and conductive fillers shielding performance.
Tunable formaldehyde sensing properties of palladium cluster decorated graphene
Authors: Yang Lunwei , Xiao Wei , Wang Jianwei , Li Xiaowu , Wang Ligen
Published: November 2021

The adsorption strength of formaldehyde gas molecule and sensing response property on palladium cluster decorated graphene can be tuned by controlling the cluster size.
Nickel(ii)-catalyzed reductive silylation of alkenyl methyl ethers for the synthesis of alkyl silanes
Authors: Qiu Xiaodong , Zhou Li , Wang Haoran , Lu Lingyi , Ling Yong , Zhang Yanan
Published: November 2021

A Ni(ii)-catalyzed tandem reaction including vinyl C–O bond silylation and olefin hydrogenation has been developed providing structurally diversified alkyl silanes.
Hierarchical microsphere MOF arrays with ultralow Ir doping for efficient hydrogen evolution coupled with hydrazine oxidation in seawater
Authors: Zhai Xuejun , Yu Qingping , Liu Guishan , Bi Junlu , Zhang Yu , Chi Jingqi , Lai Jianping , Yang Bo , Wang Lei
Published: November 2021

The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) based on water electrolysis is promising for renewable hydrogen production.
Europium single atom based heterojunction photocatalysts with enhanced visible-light catalytic activity
Authors: Yini li  , Qu Yang , Wang Guofeng
Published: November 2021

By taking advantage of the unique advantages of Eu3+ single atom catalysis and the II-type heterojunction in the field of photocatalytic reduction, a Eu3+ single atom doped CdS/InVO4 II-type heterojunction was successfully constructed.
Recent advances in electrospinning supramolecular systems
Authors: Che Hailong , Yuan Jinying
Published: November 2021

Electrospinning based on supramolecular systems is an innovative strategy for developing nanostructured scaffolds or membranes, and it has been attracting much research interest in the fields of electrospinning as well as supramolecular chemistry.
Highly sensitive mechano-optical strain sensors based on 2D materials for human wearable monitoring and high-end robotic applications
Authors: Khan Haris , Soomro Afaque Manzoor , Samad Abdul , Irfanullah  , Waqas Muhammad , Ashraf Hina , Khan Saeed Ahmed , Choi Kyung Hyun
Published: November 2021

We propose a novel flexible mechano-optical sensor by modulating the transmittance of Ecoflex/molybdenum disulfide (MoS2). This device is successfully used in wearable and robotic applications.
Nanoribbons or weakly connected acenes? The influence of pyrene insertion on linearly extended ring systems
Authors: Ai Qianxiang , Smith Tanner , Liyanage A. D. Thilanga , Mazza Samuel M. , Parkin Sean R. , Anthony John E. , Risko Chad
Published: November 2021

Pyrene moieties inserted among acene units do not result in long acene-like structures; rather the pyrene-inserted acene structure is, electronically, a series of (nearly) isolated acenes.
Understanding Clinician Perspectives and Actions to Address Caregiver Burden in Caregivers of Adults
Authors: Chen Crystal , Shune Samantha , Namasivayam-MacDonald Ashwini
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to determine how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) perceive and address caregiver burden.

Method:

A 29-question survey was distributed virtually via relevant Facebook pages and professional associations. Ninety-three responses from English-speaking SLPs working with adults in the United States or Canada were analyzed descriptively. Other analyses included one-way analysis of variance and chi-square tests to assess relationships between years of experiences, primary work setting, and other relevant variables, as well as a thematic analysis of one free-text response detailing how respondents defined caregiver burden.

Results:

Respondents associated caregiver burden with physical, psychological, financial, and social strain, loss of personal time, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The most described theme (80%) was physical strain. Almost all respondents (92%) believed that caregiver burden is a prominent issue and reported using strategies such as education and training to reduce burden. Most respondents (86%) would consider adopting a standardized tool to identify caregiver burden. Common barriers to addressing caregiver burden were lack of tools, time, and expertise. Additionally, less than half of respondents reported being confident in their ability to appropriately refer caregivers for support (45%).

Conclusions:

Most SLPs interacted with caregivers and used strategies such as education and training within their areas of expertise to try and address caregiver burden. Further research into the resources SLPs need to address caregiver burden is required. This study provides a preliminary understanding of current SLP perspectives and the strategies currently used to address caregiver burden in the United States and Canada.
Noise figure and input intercept point's errors in an AGC‐less microwatt ultrawideband system (limiter and low noise amplifier)
Authors: Shahrabadi Shahab
Published: November 2021

The goal is to illustrate new errors about using the figures‐of‐merit NF and IIP, by investigating an AGC‐less microwatt ultrawideband ‐boosted CMOS RF system with noise/distortion cancellation. The system composed of limiter and LNA is designed for 0.3–10.7 GHz at 1.8 V. Thanks to the limiter, the impact of noises and distortions is cancelled and the LNA acts linear without any saturation or block, as well as, it becomes AGC‐less. Additionally, achievements prove that NF and IIP sometimes can be accompanied by error, hence engineers must always consider all aspects of a system together during their evaluations. Although this work is not experimental, it applies different methods such as “Regenerating”, “Comparing Calculations with Simulations” and “Monte Carlo” to demonstrate the reliability of achievements for applying in a SAW‐less RFIC.
A frequency mapping method for locating functional units inside ICs based on coaxial microscope
Authors: Liu Pengcheng , Han Jianwei , Ma Yingqi , Zhang Feng , Wu Zongguo , Zhu Xiang , Cui Yixin
Published: November 2021

Locating the physical position of functional units of the chip is a mandatory first step in various fields of applications, such as reverse engineering and hardware security. This paper presents a frequency mapping method based on the coaxial microscope to locate functional units inside ICs. A visible light camera is employed to focus the laser on the active region of the device under test based on the principle that the laser is strongly reflected at the metal in the active region. The target circuit modulates the laser at its operating frequency and the position of the target circuit could be accurately located by analyzing the frequency characteristics of the reflected laser. The results of transceiver chip localization indicate that the target circuit on the chip can be precisely located by this method without any additional processing of the chip. The coaxial microscopy design provides a good spot quality and signal‐to‐noise ratio, meanwhile, locating areas of the chip with operating currents down to 10−10 A, compared with that of photonic emission analysis can only achieve the sensitivity of 5 × 10−4 A. The sensitivity of the frequency mapping method is much better than that of Photonic Emission Analysis.
Automotive interference statistics and their effect on radar detector
Authors: Pirkani Anum , Norouzian Fatemeh , Hoare Edward , Cherniakov Mikhail , Gashinova Marina
Published: November 2021

Millimetre‐wave frequency‐modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radars are at present widely deployed in the autonomous vehicles. The growing usage of such sensors, as a vital part of a robust future autonomous sensing system, sees the potential for significant increase in mutual interference and adverse effects on sensor operation. Effective target detection in the background of interference requires knowledge of the interference statistics. In the case that such statistics are found to be similar to that of additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN), then classical well‐established detection techniques can be applied. Conversely, if statistics are found to be different, traditional techniques (matched filtering) will not be optimal. Here, a statistical analysis of mutual interference within an FMCW victim radar is presented. The majority of cases show a low correlation between the interference pulses received at the victim radar, with close to a Gaussian distribution. Some specific cases show a high correlation between the interference pulses in the victim radar chirps with a sinusoidal‐like distribution, which degrades the victim radar’s detection performance. The presented analysis is validated by experimental data for various interference cases.
Observations of multiple NH3 transitions in W33
Authors: Tursun K. , Henkel C. , Esimbek J. , Tang X. D. , Wilson T. L. , Malawi A. , Alkhuja E. , Wyrowski F. , Mauersberger R. , Immer K. , Asiri H. , Zhou J. J. , Wu G.
Published: November 2021

At a distance of 2.4 kpc, W33 is an outstanding massive and luminous 10 pc-sized star forming complex containing quiescent infrared dark clouds as well as highly active infrared bright cloud cores heated by young massive stars. We report measurements of ammonia (NH3) inversion lines in the frequency range 18–26 GHz obtained with the 40′′ resolution of the 100 m Effelsberg telescope. We detect the (J, K) = (1,1), (2,2), (3,3), (4,4), (5,5), (6,6), (2,1), and (3,2) transitions. There is a maser line in the (3,3) transition towards W33 Main. Brightness temperature and line shape indicate no significant variation during the last ~36 yr. We determined kinetic temperatures, column densities, and other physical properties of NH3 and the molecular clouds in W33. For the total-NH3 column density inside 40′′ (0.5 pc) regions, we find 6.0 (±2.1) × 1014, 3.5 (±0.1) × 1015, 3.4 (±0.2) × 1015, 3.1 (±0.2) × 1015, 2.8 (±0.2) × 1015, and 2.0 (±0.2) × 1015 cm−2 at the peak positions of W33 Main, W33 A, W33 B, W33 Main1, W33 A1, and W33 B1, respectively. W33 Main has a total-NH3 fractional abundance of 1.3 (±0.1) × 10−9 at the peak position. High values of 1.4 (±0.3) × 10−8, 1.6 (±0.3) × 10−8, 3.4 (±0.5) × 10−8, 1.6 (±0.5) × 10−8, and 4.0 (±1.2) × 10−8 are obtained at the central positions of W33 A, W33 B, W33 Main1, W33 A1, and W33 B1. From this, we confirm the previously proposed variation in the evolutionary stages of the six W33 clumps and find that there is no hot core in the region approaching the extreme conditions encountered in W51-IRS2 or Sgr B2. The ortho-to-para-NH3 abundance ratios suggest that ammonia should have been formed in the gas phase or on dust grain mantles at kinetic temperatures of ≳20 K. We determine kinetic temperatures only using NH3 (1,1) and (2,2), and from this we provide gas volume densities for the six main sources in the W33 region. With our new Tkin values, we find that our volume densities are similar to those estimated by Immer et al. (2014, A&A, 572, A63), suggesting that ammonia beam-filling factors are close to unity.
Design of an acoustic sensor for fission gas release characterization devoted to JHR environment measurements
Authors: Baudry F. , Rosenkrantz E. , Combette P. , Fourmentel D. , Destouches C. , Ferrandis J.Y.
Published: November 2021

Among numerous research projects devoted to the improvement of the nuclear fuel behaviour knowledge, the development of advanced instrumentation for in-pile experiments in Material Testing Reactor is of great interest. In the frame of JHR reactor, new requirements have arisen creating new constraints.

An acoustic method was tested with success during a first experiment called REMORA 3 in 2010 and 2011, and the results were used to differentiate helium and fission gas release kinetics under transient operating conditions. This experiment was leading at OSIRIS reactor (CEA Saclay, France). The maximal temperature during the irradiation test was about 150 °C. [1], [2]. We have developed thick film transducers produced by screen-printing process. They offered a wide range of possible application for the development of acoustic sensors and piezoelectric structure for harsh temperature environment measurements [3]. We proposed a screen-printed modified Bismuth Titanate piezoelectric element on alumina substrate allowing acoustic measurements [4] for JHR environment. In this paper we will focus on the mechanical design of the new sensor. This acoustic sensor is composed of an acoustic element for generation and detection of acoustic waves propagating into a cavity filled with gaz. We will detail the choice of piezoelectric materials, the thickness of the different layers, the cavity shapes, the electrical connections, the means of assembly of the different parts. Theoretical and experimental results will be given. All that point will be discussed in terms of acoustic sensor sensitivity versus dimensional constraints, in the case of a high temperature range working.
Radiation Hardness Test of a Silicon Detector under Radiation Dose Rate of Nuclear Power Plant for In-Containment Coolant Leakage Detection System
Authors: Kim Jongheon , Pak Kihong , Park Junesic , Kim Yong Kyun
Published: November 2021

An influence evaluation by background radiation on a silicon detector, which will be used to detect a coolant leakage, and installed in a containment building of a nuclear power plant, was performed and the result was discussed. The detector that consists of a silicon sensor and preamplifier mounted in a shielding structure which composed of a 5 cm lead cylinder will be installed in an annulus zone that is influenced by background radiation (neutron and gamma ray) from an operation of a nuclear reactor. Absorbed dose rates on a silicon sensor and preamplifier were calculated as 2.15 mGy/hr and 1.05 mGy/hr, respectively, by Monte Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) simulation. Data of background radiation had referred to a Final Safety Analysis Report (FSAR) of a nuclear power plant in the Republic of Korea.

A silicon sensor and preamplifier were irradiated by a Co60 gamma radiation source equipped in a facility of Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute Advanced Radiation Technology Institute (KAERI ARTI) of the Republic of Korea. A Po-210 alpha source was used as a check source to evaluate a state of a function of the detector during gamma irradiation. Absorbed dose rates were about 22.92 mGy/hr and 6.6 mGy/hr on silicon sensor and preamplifier, respectively. Before and during gamma irradiation, a count rates from the check source wasn`t changed (from 18.4 cps to 18.4±0.2 cps after irradiation), and any degradations of function also weren`t observed. Even more harsh condition than calculated dose rates referred by the condition of background radiation of in-containment, the silicon detector maintained the ability of function of charged particles detection. Based on the result, it has been demonstrated that a silicon detector is a suitable detector for detecting charged particles from a leaked coolant even during interfered by the background radiation of a primary system of a nuclear power plant.
Optimized High-Temperature Irradiation-Resistant Thermocouple for Fast-Response Measurements
Authors: Skifton Richard , Palmer Joe , Hashemian Alex
Published: November 2021

The high-temperature irradiation-resistant thermocouple is the only temperature probe proven to withstand the high-temperature (>1290°C), high-radiation (a fluence of up to ∼1 × 1021 n/cm2) environments of nuclear reactor fuel design testing and/or over-temperature accident conditions. This report describes the improved performance of a molybdenum and niobium thermocouple by utilizing a coaxial design (i.e., a single wire grounded to the outer sheath). This optimized high-temperature irradiation-resistant thermocouple features a simplified design yet allows for more robust individual components. The niobium and molybdenum thermoelements can be used interchangeably in either the sheath or wire, depending on the intended application. Via a plunge test in flowing water, the response time of the coaxial build of the high-temperature irradiation-resistant thermocouple was determined to be 30x faster than that of the comparable ungrounded type-K thermocouples, and 10x faster than the grounded type-K thermocouples and traditional ungrounded high-temperature irradiation-resistant thermocouples (i.e., two-wire configurations). Furthermore, by capitalizing on the coaxial design, a multi-core high-temperature irradiation-resistant probe with multiple “single-pole” wires along the length of the sheath was proven feasible. This multi-core, thermocouple design was dubbed a “demicouple.” The high-temperature irradiation-resistant demicouple is primarily applied during fuel experiments to record multiple fuel-pin centerline temperature measurements using a single compact sensor. Furthermore, the shared “common” leg between demicouple junctions reduces error propagation in secondary measurements such as temperature differentials.