bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perioperative Nurse Recruitment: An OR Placement Program for Fourth‐Year Nursing Students in Ontario
Authors: Zekveld Karin , Berquist Renee
Published: July 2022

Nursing associations have predicted a worldwide shortage of perioperative RNs as more nurses reach retirement age. Additionally, the lack of perioperative exposure during undergraduate nursing programs is contributing to the failure to attract recently graduated nurses to this field. In 2019, multiple hospital sites within the St. Lawrence College network in Ontario, Canada, expressed difficulty recruiting perioperative RNs and expressed an interest in collaborating with the college to increase exposure to the perioperative specialty and recruit students to their ORs after graduation. The college has run a successful preceptor‐supported OR placement program for fourth‐year baccalaureate nursing students since 2019. Eleven out of thirteen students were hired into the OR after their 2020–2021 placement program. This article outlines the steps taken to initiate this program as well as results of a formal program evaluation conducted in 2021, including detailed feedback from participating students, preceptors, and leaders at the involved hospitals.
Enhanced mechanical and tribological properties of epoxy‐based coatings by in‐situ synthesized silicon dioxide nanoparticles
Authors: Liao Yuwen , Cao Lin , Li Shuangjian , Lin Zhidan , Li Wei , Yu Chuanyong , Zhang Peng , Wang Qiwei
Published: July 2022

Friction and wear behaviors severely inhibit the regular operation and lifetime of mechanical components served in the ocean extreme environment. Herein, we report a novel in‐situ synthesis strategy for fabricating silicon dioxide nanoparticles‐reinforced epoxy (EP)‐based composite coatings. The crystalline phases, sizes, morphologies, and reaction mechanism of the in‐situ‐synthesized nanoparticles were characterized, and the mechanical and tribological properties of the EP‐silicon dioxide based composite coatings were also investigated in detail. The results showed that the in‐situ‐synthesized nanoparticles with a size about 100–150 nm were in an amorphous state and were covalently grafted onto the epoxy resin matrix. The thermal stability, nano‐hardness and scratch‐resistance of the composite coatings have been significantly improved. Moreover, the appropriate nanoparticles greatly reduced the wear rates of the epoxy composite coatings, which decreased by two orders of magnitude than that of pure EP coating when their incorporation content reaches 20 wt%. Additionally, the wear rate of the 15 wt% composite coating under the seawater medium decreased by 79.5 compared to that of pure coating.
Facile strategy for the preparation of green graphene rubber with enhanced interfacial interaction and thermal management capability
Authors: Cheng Shuaishuai , Duan Xiaoyuan , Cui Yiwen , Liang Chaobo , Zhang Zhiyi , Zhao Guizhe , Liu Yaqing
Published: July 2022

The development of high‐performance green rubber materials with excellent comprehensive properties is very important for the environment and resources. Graphene has excellent electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties and is regarded as the most promising functional filler for rubber composites. In this work, a facile and efficient strategy was used to prepare graphene rubber materials with balanced integrated properties by chemical modification of graphene oxide (GO) with gelatin (Gel). Gel molecules as bridges could not only connect with GO by chemical bonds, but also physically entangle with natural rubber (NR) molecules. The optimized dispersibility of GO and the enhanced interfacial interaction between GO and NR together enable graphene rubber to exhibit excellent integrated properties, such as tensile strength of 29.7 MPa and heat build‐up of 1.9°C only at 1 phr of Gel‐rGO (G‐rGO) content. Additionally, finite element simulation was used to evaluate the temperature field distribution of graphene rubber tires, and the temperature of the NR/Gel‐rGO (NR/G‐rGO) tread was 17.3°C lower than that of NR/GO. This work will provide effective strategies for the preparation of high‐performance graphene rubber materials.
Microinjection molding of polyoxymethylene stepped‐parts: Morphology, crystallinity, shrinkage, and thermal characterization
Authors: Ben Ayad Anass , El Hakimi Abdelhadi , El Otmani Rabie , El Magri Anouar , Louanate Amal , Touache Abdelhamid , Boutaous M'hamed , Vaudreuil Sébastien
Published: July 2022

This paper addresses an experimental investigation of the microinjection molding process through three increasing sections of polyoxymethylene (POM) stepped parts. High and low levels of mold temperature and injection velocity were defined to evaluate the relationship between machine settings, melting and crystallization properties, morphology formation, and shrinkage. The internal morphology of parts showed a mix of structures, from the mold surface towards the core region of each section. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) tests highlighted the difficulty of concluding the relationship between the melting temperatures, the processing conditions, and the position of the samples within the mold. The skin‐layer crystallinity declines with increasing part‐step thickness, while the crystallinity degrees of intermediate and core layers are sensitive to the thermal gradients. It was also observed that crystallinity rises along with increasing thickness, benefiting from further polymer chain relaxation and perfection. The unsymmetrical mold cavity results in substantial differences in shrinkage. High shrinkage occurs across the thickness direction due to fast material solidification. The experimental results were supported by the calculated shear rates and temperature fields at the end of the mold‐filling phase. This work yields new insights into comprehending the intricate flow and thermal properties of stepped micropart geometries, which are widely encountered in the plastics manufacturing industry.
Expansion and differentiation of ex vivo cultured erythroblasts in scalable stirred bioreactors
Authors: Gallego‐Murillo Joan Sebastián , Iacono Giulia , van der Wielen Luuk A. M. , van den Akker Emile , von Lindern Marieke , Wahl Sebastian Aljoscha
Published: July 2022

Transfusion of donor‐derived red blood cells (RBCs) is the most common form of cell therapy. Production of transfusion‐ready cultured RBCs (cRBCs) is a promising replacement for the current, fully donor‐dependent therapy. A single transfusion unit, however, contains 2 × 1012 RBC, which requires large scale production. Here, we report on the scale‐up of cRBC production from static cultures of erythroblasts to 3 L stirred tank bioreactors, and identify the effect of operating conditions on the efficiency of the process. Oxygen requirement of proliferating erythroblasts (0.55–2.01 pg/cell/h) required sparging of air to maintain the dissolved oxygen concentration at the tested setpoint (2.88 mg O2/L). Erythroblasts could be cultured at dissolved oxygen concentrations as low as 0.7 O2 mg/ml without negative impact on proliferation, viability or differentiation dynamics. Stirring speeds of up to 600 rpm supported erythroblast proliferation, while 1800 rpm led to a transient halt in growth and accelerated differentiation followed by a recovery after 5 days of culture. Erythroblasts differentiated in bioreactors, with final enucleation levels and hemoglobin content similar to parallel cultures under static conditions.
N6‐methyladenosine RNA demethylase FTO regulates extracellular matrix‐related genes and promotes pancreatic cancer cell migration and invasion
Authors: Wang Wei , He Ying , Wu Lun , Zhai Lu‐Lu , Chen Long‐Jiang , Yao Li‐Chao , Yu Kai‐Huan , Tang Zhi‐Gang
Published: July 2022

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a deadly disease, and its post‐transcriptional gene regulation mechanism remains unclear. The abundant extracellular matrix (ECM) in PC plays an important role in tumor progression. This study is the first to focus on the role of N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation, an emerging post‐transcriptional regulatory mechanism, in the regulation of the ECM in PC. Here, we found that ADAMTS2, COL12A1, and THBS2 were associated with the prognosis of PC by comprehensive analysis of differentially expressed genes from two independent GEO expression profile datasets and m6A‐related genes in RMVar database (PAAD). GO and KEGG enrichment analysis found that these m6A‐related targets are chiefly functionally concentrated in the ECM region and participate in ECM signal transduction. Correlation analysis revealed that these genes can be regulated by the demethylase FTO. Cell biology function assays showed that knockdown of FTO‐inhibited PC cell abilities to migrate and invade in vitro. qRT‐PCR and MeRIP experiments showed that after knockdown of FTO, the mRNA levels of ADAMTS2, COL12A1, and THBS2 and their m6A modification levels were significantly reduced. These results indicate that m6A RNA demethylation is associated with the regulation of ECM in PC. In conclusion, m6A RNA demethylase FTO regulates ECM‐related genes and promotes PC cell abilities to migrate and invade, our work provides a new perspective on the molecular mechanism of PC progression.
The altered expression of homing factors in CD34+ hematopoietic stem cells following G‐CSF injection and its effects on transplantation quality in ALL patients
Authors: Shafiei Seyede‐Leila , Movassaghpour Aliakbar , Hosseini Seyede Fatemeh , Talebi Mehdi , Edalati Mehdi , Torabi Goudarzi Saeedeh , Soltani‐Zangbar Mohammad Sadegh , Mehdizadeh Amir , Yousefi Mehdi
Published: July 2022

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) transplantation is considered a suitable treatment for malignant or nonmalignant hematological diseases. This study aims to investigate the HSCs homing factors in bone marrow (BM) donors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients following granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) injection, as well as the G‐CSF effects on BM transplantation quality in these patients. To mobilize HSCs into peripheral blood, G‐CSF was used for ALL patient's BM donors. For HSCs counting, CD34+ cells were evaluated in analogous and autologous donors using flow cytometry. The expression of stem cell homing factors in CD34+ cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were investigated using a real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Finally, hematological factors after BM transplantation in ALL patients were assessed. According to our results, after G‐CSF injection, the level of CD34+ HSCs was statistically increased. Besides, autologous donors showed a higher level of CD34+ cells compared to analogous donors before and after G‐CSF injection. Additionally, a higher number of CD34+ HSCs was achieved in the autologous samples following G‐CSF injection. Furthermore, after G‐CSF injection, the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2, MMP‐9 was increased; while, stromal cell‐derived factor 1, intercellular adhesion molecule‐1, and vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 expression were decreased. Moreover, the expression of C‐X‐C chemokine receptor type 4, lymphocyte function‐associated antigen 1, and very late antigen‐4 in CD34+ cells and PBMCs were decreased. BM transplantation on Day 90 also caused an increased level of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets as compared to the first day; however, no statistical differences were observed in hemoglobin level. In conclusion, G‐CSF by altering the expression of HSCs homing factors in ALL donors improves BM transplantation quality in ALL patients.
A case report of prolonged COVID‐19‐positive RT‐PCR for five months
Authors: Siami Zeinab , Jamalimoghadamsiahkali Saeidreza , Khavandegar Armin
Published: July 2022

The COVID‐19 gold standard assessment tool remained the RT‐PCR of upper respiratory tract specimen extracted by the nasopharyngeal swab. A positive result would decrease through a three‐week course and eventually be undetectable. The maximum duration of viral shedding is 83 days. Besides, COVID‐19 RT‐PCR remained positive for 74 days in a patient suffering from lymphoma. In this study, we have presented a 56‐year‐old male patient, a known case of lymphoma since 2015, who experienced many episodes of chemotherapy with a five‐month positive RT‐PCR COVID‐19 laboratory test and finally was intubated and then died of opportunistic pulmonary infections. COVID‐19 patients with concurrent lymphoma failed to remove the virus thoroughly, despite providing appropriate treatment regimens.
Central odontogenic fibroma, hyperplastic dental follicle, or dentigerous cyst? A diagnostic dilemma: A case report
Authors: Rajabi‐moghaddam Mahdieh , Mozafari Ghazaleh , Abbaszadeh Hamid
Published: July 2022

Central odontogenic fibroma (COF) is an extremely rare benign odontogenic tumor, which is associated with an unerupted tooth in one‐third of the cases. Hyperplastic dental follicle (HDF) is an odontogenic hamartomatous lesion associated with delayed or tooth eruption failure in young patients. Dentigerous cyst (DC) is an epithelial‐lined developmental cyst surrounding the crown of an unerupted or impacted tooth. Here, we present a case of 13‐year‐old boy with pericoronal radiolucency around impacted right maxillary canine tooth, which detected during routine dental examination on panoramic radiograph. The size of radiolucency was varied between 5 and 10 mm and was asymmetrical. Lesion was underwent biopsy with suspicion to a dentigerous cyst. On microscopic examination, the lesion was composed of a cellular fibrous connective tissue with odontogenic epithelium in the form of strands or nests throughout the lesion and calcifications in the form of basophilic cementum‐like material and dentinoid. Due to its nonspecific histological features, we encountered a diagnostic dilemma. In this case report, we discuss the clinical and radiologic features of COF, DC, and HDF. We preferred COF for this lesion. By combining surgical and orthodontic treatments, the impacted tooth was directed to its correct position in the maxilla. This case report highlights the importance of clinicopathological correlation in the diagnosis of pericoronal radiolucencies.
Bubble Behaviors in a Dense Gas‐Solids Fluidized Bed: Analysis of Pressure Fluctuation
Authors: Ma Zhunzhun , Ma Hongfang , Qian Weixin , Zhang Haitao , Sun Qiwen , Ying Weiyong
Published: July 2022

The pressure signals were analyzed by time‐domain and frequency‐domain methods, including standard deviation, autocorrelation function, and power spectral density function, to investigate the bubble behavior and determine the regime transition. Results indicated that the autocorrelation function of pressure signals derived from bubbles was periodic fluctuation. The periodic nature of the autocorrelation function disappeared and the dominant frequency increased when the transition from bubbling to the turbulent regime occurred. The decrease of static bed height facilitated the explosion of bubbles, which accelerated the transition from the bubbling to the turbulent regime. The fluidization index was used as an indicator for the bubble state in the dense fluidized bed.
Two Paths to Oxidative C−H Amination Under Basic Conditions: A Theoretical Case Study Reveals Hidden Opportunities Provided by Electron Upconversion**
Authors: Eckhardt Paul , Elliot Quintin , Alabugin Igor V. , Opatz Till
Published: July 2022

Traditionally, cross‐dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) leads to C−N bond formation under basic and oxidative conditions and is proposed to proceed via a two‐electron bond formation mediated by carbenium ions. However, the formation of such high‐energy intermediates is only possible in the presence of strong oxidants, which may lead to undesired side reactions and poor functional group tolerance. In this work we explore if oxidation under basic conditions allows the formation of three‐electron bonds (resulting in “upconverted” highly‐reducing radical‐anions). The benefit of this “upconversion” process is in the ability to use milder oxidants (e. g., O2) and to avoid high‐energy intermediates. Comparison of the two‐ and three‐electron pathways using quantum mechanical calculations reveals that not only does the absence of a strong oxidant shut down two‐electron pathways in favor of a three‐electron path but, paradoxically, weaker oxidants react faster with the upconverted reductants by avoiding the inverted Marcus region for electron transfer.
Coordination Adaptable Networks: Zirconium(IV) Carboxylates
Authors: Murali Meenu , Berne Dimitri , Joly‐Duhamel Christine , Caillol Sylvain , Leclerc Eric , Manoury Eric , Ladmiral Vincent , Poli Rinaldo
Published: July 2022

Vitrimers are 3D “covalent adaptable networks” (CANs) with flow properties thanks to thermally activated associative exchange reactions. This contribution introduces coordination adaptable networks, or CooANs, that are topologically related to metal–organic frameworks with octahedral Zr6 clusters as secondary building units in a carboxylic acid‐functionalized acrylate‐methacrylate copolymer matrix. A series of Zr‐CooAN‐x materials (x=percent of Zr6 loading relative to maximum capacity) was synthesized with x=5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 50 and 100. The mechanical and rheological investigations demonstrate vitrimer‐like properties for x up to 50, the crosslink migration being ensured by carboxylate ligand exchange, with relaxation becoming slower as the Zr6 content is increased. The flow activation energy of Zr‐CooAN‐10 is 92.9±3.6 kJ mol−1. Rapid (30 min) hot‐press reshaping occurs at temperatures in the 50–100 °C range under a 3‐ton pressure and does not significantly alter the material properties.
Numerische Untersuchung des Abkühlverhaltens von eingetafelten Schokoladenprodukten
Authors: Lörcher Marc , Behrens Stefan , Böttger Arne , Lange Claudia , Schräer Christian , Luo Xing , Kabelac Stephan
Published: July 2022

Neben Geschmack und Schmelzverhalten ist der Glanz ein wichtiges Qualitätskriterium von eingetafelten Schokoladenprodukten. Glanzunterschiede der Produkte können auf verschiedene Ursachen im Produktionsprozess zurückgeführt werden. Der Kühlprozess stellt dabei einen signifikanten Einfluss dar. Die durch Scheren und Unterkühlen vorkristallisierte Schokolade wird weiter abgekühlt, kristallisiert und fest aus dem Kühlprozess heraustransportiert. Das Kühlen der Schokolade im Paternoster‐Kühlschrank ist weitestgehend unerforscht und wird daher in dieser Arbeit hinsichtlich des sich ergebenen Strömungsprofils und des resultierenden Temperaturprofils numerisch untersucht.
Thieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidine‐Core Compounds Show Activity against Clinically Relevant Gram‐Positive Bacteria
Authors: Riabova Olga , Egorova Anna , Lepioshkin Alexander , Li Yan , Voigt Kerstin , Kloss Florian , Makarov Vadim
Published: July 2022

Thieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidines represent a novel antibacterial prodrug scaffold, previously identified through a screening campaign against Mycobacterium tuberculosis in which the formation of highly antimycobacterial metabolites catalyzed by the nitroreductase Mrx2 is suggested to be the relevant killing mechanism. As analogous activation pathways may also be employed in other prokaryotes, in this work we explored general antibacterial effects of this compound class. Through exploration of the chemical space by different synthetic strategies, 51 novel derivatives were generated, biologically evaluated and thus enabled initial conclusions about structure‐activity relationships. Remarkably, anti‐Gram‐positive activity can be well modulated, particularly towards Staphylococci (MRSA) and even slightly against some Gram‐negative strains. The two most promising hit compounds showed good pharmacokinetic properties in vitro as well as acceptable toxicity in HeLa cells, qualifying them as starting points for lead‐generation campaigns.
8‐Hydroxy‐1,6‐naphthyridine‐7‐carboxamides as Inhibitors of Human Cytomegalovirus pUL89 Endonuclease
Authors: Jung Eunkyung , Majima Ryuichi , Edwards Tiffany C. , Soto‐Acosta Ruben , Geraghty Robert J. , Wang Zhengqiang
Published: July 2022

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) replication requires a metal‐dependent endonuclease at the C‐terminus of pUL89 (pUL89‐C) for viral genome packaging and cleavage. We have previously shown that pUL89‐C can be pharmacologically inhibited with designed metal‐chelating compounds. We report herein the synthesis of a few 8‐hydroxy‐1,6‐naphthyridine subtypes, including 5‐chloro (subtype 15), 5‐aryl (subtype 16), and 5‐amino (subtype 17) variants. Analogs were studied for the inhibition of pUL89‐C in a biochemical endonuclease assay, a biophysical thermal shift assay (TSA), in silico molecular docking, and for the antiviral potential against HCMV in cell‐based assays. These studies identified eight analogs of 8‐hydroxy‐1,6‐naphthyridine‐7‐carboxamide subtypes for further characterization, most of which inhibited pUL89‐C with single‐digit μM IC50 values, and conferred antiviral activity in μM range. TSA and molecular modeling of selected analogs corroborate their binding to pUL89‐C. Collectively, our biochemical, antiviral, biophysical and in silico data suggest that 8‐hydroxy‐1,6‐naphthyridine‐7‐carboxamide subtypes can be used for designing inhibitors of HCMV pUL89‐C.
Will the real Q please stand up?
Authors: Brill Michael H.
Published: July 2022

In my 1996 article on units of tristimulus values, I used as a definitional equation Jozef Cohen's Q = A′N, where N is a radiometric function of k wavelengths and Q is a column vector comprising N's associated tristimulus values. With Cohen, I took as Matrix A (having no units) a set of three column vectors comprising color‐matching functions. The relation Q = A′N then forced Q to have dimensions of power, which was inconsistent with the dimensionlessness of matrix A. Besides this problem, calling A′N the tristimulus values of N still left them in an unspecified basis, so you could get a wide variety of Q vectors from a single N vector by changing the basis of A. Simply specifying Q = A′N did not supply enough information to specify tristimulus values uniquely. I now propose to define Q = (A′ P)−1 A′ N, where k‐by‐3 matrix P contains the (unscaled) spectra of the primaries. Using this definition resolves both the above problems.
Gesture recognition from RGB images using convolutional neural network‐attention based system
Authors: Barbhuiya Abul Abbas , Karsh Ram Kumar , Jain Rahul
Published: July 2022

Hand gestures can be categorized based on their applications as conversational, manipulative, controlling, and communicative gestures. Hand gesture recognition is an aspect of human action recognition, which plays a notable role in communication among the deaf and dumb community. Accurate recognition and classification of hand gestures with similar postures is still a complex problem. The main objective of this work is to employ deep learning based convolutional neural networks for human action recognition. This article introduces a convolutional neural network based on VGG16 architecture with an attention approach to mitigate the issue. Incorporating an attention‐based module with the VGG16 architecture is the prime reason for potentially learning distinguishing image features by the network. Besides, the proposed robust system collectively recognizes and classifies all the available 36 hand gesture classes of the Massey database, where most previous work selected only a few distinguishable gestures. Experimental results show that the average recognition accuracy for characters with similar hand postures like “m” and “n” is better than the state‐of‐the‐art networks. Additionally, the proposed method attains about 3% higher recognition accuracy than the state‐of‐the‐art networks for all gesture classes. The efficacy of the proposed architecture has also been validated via precision, recall, and F‐score.
Identifying Clinically Relevant Drug–Drug Interactions With Methadone and Buprenorphine: A Translational Approach to Signal Detection
Authors: Miano Todd A. , Wang Lei , Leonard Charles E. , Brensinger Colleen M. , Acton Emily K. , Dawwas Ghadeer K. , Bilker Warren B. , Soprano Samantha E. , Nguyen Thanh Phuong Pham , Woody George , Yu Elmer , Neuman Mark , Li Lang , Hennessy Sean
Published: July 2022

Methadone and buprenorphine have pharmacologic properties that are concerning for a high risk of drug–drug interactions (DDIs). We performed high‐throughput screening for clinically relevant DDIs with methadone or buprenorphine by combining pharmacoepidemiologic and pharmacokinetic approaches. We conducted pharmacoepidemiologic screening via a series of self‐controlled case series studies (SCCS) in Optum claims data from 2000 to 2019. We included persons 18 years or older who experienced an outcome of interest during target drug treatment. Exposures were all overlapping medications (i.e., the candidate precipitants) during target drug treatment. Outcomes were opioid overdose, non‐overdose adverse effects, and cardiac arrest. We used conditional Poisson regression to calculate rate ratios, accounting for multiple comparisons with semi‐Bayes shrinkage. We explored the impact of key study design choices in analyses that varied the exposure definitions of the target drugs and the candidate precipitant drugs. Pharmacokinetic screening was conducted by incorporating published data on CYP enzyme metabolism into an equation‐based static model. In SCCS analysis, 1,432 events were included from 248,069 new users of methadone or buprenorphine. In the primary analysis, statistically significant DDIs included gabapentinoids with either methadone or buprenorphine; baclofen with methadone; and benzodiazepines with methadone. In sensitivity analysis, additional statistically significant DDIs included methocarbamol, quetiapine, or simvastatin with methadone. Pharmacokinetic screening identified two moderate‐to‐strong potential DDIs (clonidine and fluconazole with buprenorphine). The combination of clonidine and buprenorphine was also associated with a significantly increased risk of opioid overdose in pharmacoepidemiologic screening. These DDI signals may be the most important targets for future confirmation studies.
Enhanced Electrochemical Capacity of Spherical Co‐Free Li1.2Mn0.6Ni0.2O2 Particles after a Water and Acid Treatment and its Influence on the Initial Gas Evolution Behavior
Authors: Klein Florian , Bansmann Joachim , Jusys Zenonas , Pfeifer Claudia , Scheitenberger Philipp , Mundszinger Manuel , Geiger Dorin , Biskupek Johannes , Kaiser Ute , Behm R. Jürgen , Lindén Mika , Wohlfahrt‐Mehrens Margret , Axmann Peter
Published: July 2022

Li‐rich layered oxides (LRLO) with specific energies beyond 900 Wh kg−1 are one promising class of high‐energy cathode materials. Their high Mn‐content allows reducing both costs and the environmental footprint. In this work, Co‐free Li1.2Mn0.6Ni0.2O2 was investigated. A simple water and acid treatment step followed by a thermal treatment was applied to the LRLO to reduce surface impurities and to establish an artificial cathode electrolyte interface. Samples treated at 300 °C show an improved cycling behavior with specific first cycle capacities of up to 272 mAh g−1, whereas powders treated at 900 °C were electrochemically deactivated due to major structural changes of the active compounds. Surface sensitive analytical methods were used to characterize the structural and chemical changes compared to the bulk material. Online DEMS measurements were conducted to get a deeper understanding of the effect of the treatment strategy on O2 and CO2 evolution during electrochemical cycling.
An enhanced operational amplifier macro model based on artificial neural network
Authors: Wei Jiahao , Zhao Tian , Wan Jing
Published: July 2022

An enhanced operational amplifier (OPAMP) macro model based on artificial neural network (ANN) is developed for analog circuit simulation. The model uses ANN to capture the relation between the inputs and outputs (currents and voltages) of the circuit module. Both direct current (DC) and alternative current (AC) signals are considered in the model. By adopting the adaptive sampling algorithm, the amount of data required for model training can be significantly reduced and the accuracy of model fitting can be apparently improved. The model is also validated by the simulated data from OPAMP, Bandgap, and LDO circuits. Compared with SPICE model, enhanced ANN OPAMP macro model has nearly 8 times faster simulation speed without apparently degrading the model accuracy. The predictions made by the neural network are also compared to the experimental measurement results of LDO circuit fabricated in 0.18‐μm process. Both simulation and experimental results show the feasibility and accuracy of the proposed enhanced ANN OPAMP macro model.
Numerical investigation of elliptical core few‐mode fiber for next generation data transmission
Authors: Mitu Sumaiya Akhtar , Abdulrazak Lway Faisal , Ahmed Kawsar , Trabelsi Youssef , al Zahrani Fahad Ahmed , Rajan M. S. Mani
Published: July 2022

A multi‐mode supported elliptical ring core fiber is demonstrated in the suggested work. The reported fiber structure is capable of supporting a large number of modes and influences to be favorable for high capacity, less crosstalk in the area of mode division multiplexing, and Internet of Things (IoT) compatible communications. To ensure the efficiency of the described structure, many characteristics such as V‐parameter, birefringence, sensitivity response, and confinement loss are analyzed. The investigation results are obtained from the offered structure by taking 22 distinct eigenmodes and the wavelength range from 1.54 to 1.7 μm. The evaluation of the numerical analysis shows the confinement loss of less than 2.85 × 10−9 dB/m, the sensitivity response of 80,757.73292 nm/RIU. These are, to the best of our knowledge, the maximum responses received in this trade. IoT‐based technologies allow networked tools to communicate, sense, and interact with each other. Where the wireless networks are harsh to operate on the ecological surroundings, the optical technology as fiber optic cables delivers the best resources of handling data and transferring it from one place to another effectively.
Microplastics in Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) spraints and their potential as a biomonitoring tool in freshwater systems
Authors: O'Connor James D. , Lally Heather T. , Mahon Anne Marie , O'Connor Ian , Nash Róisín , O'Sullivan John J. , Bruen Michael , Heerey Linda , Koelmans Albert A. , Marnell Ferdia , Murphy Sinéad
Published: July 2022

The ubiquitous nature of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems may have serious implications for aquatic biota. While microplastic research in freshwater ecosystems is increasing, very few studies have assessed the physical presence of microplastics among top predators. The Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra), a top predator of aquatic ecosystems, is one of the most widely distributed otter species and has a broad habitat niche. The opportunistic collection of otter spraints (i.e., feces) presents a valuable opportunity to assess pollutants of freshwater ecosystems through noninvasive means. Here, we assessed the prevalence, abundance, and concentration of microplastics (100 μm to 5 mm), as well as dietary remains, in 53 spraint samples collected over eight river catchments spanning three regions of Ireland. We found microplastics present in 57% of spraints at an abundance of 1.2 ± 0.1 microplastics (MPs)/spraint (mean ± SE) and a concentration of 3.8 ± 0.6 MPs/g (dry weight). Fibers were the dominant particle type recovered (85%), followed by film (10%). No significant differences in microplastic concentrations were detected between the three regions assessed, or between spraints collected from areas upstream (i.e., “lower” exposure) or downstream (“higher” exposure) of putative microplastic sources, which were defined using spatial vector data. While microplastic concentrations were not explained by spraint condition (i.e., fresh, drying, or dry), spraints collected in autumn had a significantly higher concentration than spring and summer. Furthermore, microplastic abundance or concentration could not be linked to dietary composition based on the items identified. From a trophic perspective, this study showed that the presence of microplastics in the feces of otter is most likely being obtained through its prey (i.e., secondary ingestion). While there may be limitations associated with using spraints as a biomonitoring tool for microplastics in freshwater systems, particularly with respect to otter home range and dietary niche breadth, they could still be employed for a regional assessment of microplastic levels.
Spatio‐temporal monitoring of lake fish spawning activity using environmental DNA metabarcoding
Authors: Di Muri Cristina , Lawson Handley Lori , Bean Colin W. , Benucci Marco , Harper Lynsey R. , James Ben , Li Jianlong , Winfield Ian J. , Hänfling Bernd
Published: July 2022

Determining the timing and location of fish reproductive events is crucial for the implementation of correct management and conservation schemes. Conventional methods used to monitor these events are often unable to assess the spawning activity directly or can be invasive and therefore problematic. This is especially the case when threatened fish populations are the study subject, such as the Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus L.) populations in Windermere (Cumbria, UK). Arctic charr populations have been studied in this lake since the 1940s, and the locations and characteristics of spawning grounds have been described in detail using techniques such as hydroacoustics, as well as physical and visual surveys of the lake bottom. Here, in conjunction with established netting surveys, we added an environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding approach to assess the spatial distribution of Arctic charr in the lake throughout the year to test whether this tool could allow us to identify spawning locations and activity. Sampling was carried out between October 2017 and July 2018 at three locations in the lake, covering putative and known spawning sites. eDNA metabarcoding provided accurate spatial and temporal characterization of Arctic charr spawning events. Peaks of Arctic charr relative read counts from eDNA metabarcoding were observed during the spawning season and at specific locations of both putative and known spawning sites. Net catches of mature Arctic charr individuals confirmed the association between the Arctic charr spawning activity and the peaks of eDNA metabarcoding relative read counts. This study demonstrates the ability of eDNA metabarcoding to effectively and efficiently characterize the spatial and temporal nature of fish spawning in lentic systems.
Vericiguat and NT‐proBNP in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: analyses from the VICTORIA trial
Authors: Senni Michele , Lopez‐Sendon Jose , Cohen‐Solal Alain , Ponikowski Piotr , Nkulikiyinka Richard , Freitas Cecilia , Vlajnic Vanja Miodrag , Roessig Lothar , Pieske Burkert
Published: July 2022

Aims

Treatment response to vericiguat, based on baseline N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) subgroups specified in the protocol, was evaluated in the heart failure (HF) VICTORIA trial population by post hoc analysis of combined lower three quartiles [Q1–Q3] vs. the upper quartile [Q4].

Methods and results

VICTORIA participants with available baseline NT‐proBNP levels (n = 4805; 95.1% of total) were included. Compared with patients in Q1–Q3 (NT‐proBNP: Q1, ≤1556 pg/mL; Q2, >1556–2816 pg/mL; and Q3, >2816–5314 pg/mL), patients in Q4 (NT‐proBNP: >5314 pg/mL) were older (69.2 ± 12.0 vs. 66.6 ± 12.1 years), had lower mean ejection fraction (27.2 ± 8.3% vs. 29.5 ± 8.2%; P < 0.0001), and were more likely to be in New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class III (51.8 vs. 35.6%) or IV (2.4 vs. 1.0%). Compared with Q1–Q3, patients in Q4 had higher mean Meta‐Analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure risk score (27.3 ± 6.6 vs. 23.5 ± 6.4; P < 0.0001), had lower mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; 51.5 ± 25.5 vs. 65.0 ± 26.8 mL/min/1.73 m2; P < 0.0001) and haemoglobin (12.8 ± 2.0 vs. 13.6 ± 1.9 g/dL; P < 0.0001), and more had atrial fibrillation (48.7% vs. 43.1%; P = 0.0007) and were randomized while hospitalized for HF (14.8 vs. 9.9%; P < 0.0001). Target dose was achieved in 72.3 and 63.7% of patients in Q1–Q3 and Q4, respectively (P < 0.0001). Primary outcome (composite of time to cardiovascular death or first HF hospitalization) rates were 24.5 and 31.7 per 100 patient‐years for vericiguat and placebo in Q1–Q3 [hazard ratio (HR) 0.78; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.69–0.88, P < 0.001] and 73.6 and 63.6 in Q4 (HR 1.15; 95% CI 0.99–1.34, P = 0.070).

Serious adverse events were more frequent in NT‐proBNP Q4 (total population) compared with Q1–Q3 (38.3 vs. 32.3%; P = 0.0001), driven mainly by the placebo group. Adverse events leading to death were more frequent in Q4 than Q1–Q3 (5.8 vs. 2.4%; P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Plasma NT‐proBNP may help identify patients with worsening HF with reduced ejection fraction, in whom the beneficial effects of vericiguat may be highest. Patients with highest NT‐proBNP values are probably too far advanced, suffering more co‐morbidities, or still clinically unstable after decompensation to derive benefit from vericiguat.
An Acyclic Silylone Stabilized by Mesoionic Carbene
Authors: Wu Mengyuan , He Yuhao , Zhang Li , Wei Rui , Wang Dongmin , Liu Jingjing , Leo Liu Liu , Tan Gengwen
Published: July 2022

The synthesis and characterization of an acyclic silylone (MIC)2Si 2 (MIC=1,3‐di(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3‐triazol‐5‐ylidene) supported by a mesoionic carbene was reported. 2 was obtained by the reduction of (MIC)SiCl4 1 with 4 molar equivalents of potassium graphite in toluene at −10 °C. Theoretical calculations on 2 reveal that the silicon center is highly electron‐rich and bears two lone‐pairs of electrons. Preliminary reactivity study shows that 2 can coordinate to two CuCl molecules to furnish a dinuclear copper(I) complex (MIC)2Si(CuCl)2 3.
Separation of the Thorpe−Ingold and Reactive Rotamer Effect by Using the Formation of Bicyclic Aziridinium Ions
Authors: Helbing Tim , Kirchner Michael , Becker Jonathan , Göttlich Richard
Published: July 2022

The geminal dialkyl effect is widely used in organic synthesis to promote cyclization reactions, although the exact origin of its rate enhancement remains unclear. In the present study, we demonstrate the applicability of this effect for the intramolecular formation of bicyclic aziridinium ions and assign it to angle contractions provided by introduction of sterically demanding substituents. Due to the cyclic structure of the examined 3‐chloropiperidines the acceleration of this ring closure cannot be explained by an increased population of reactive gauche rotamers and therefore agrees with the original Thorpe‐Ingold theory. Furthermore, introduction of strained aliphatic rings resulted in internal angle expansions and were accompanied by a preliminary decrease of rate constants for the investigated aziridinium ion formation. These results lead to a linear correlation between internal angle and relative reaction rate, supported by computational and X‐ray crystallographic structural data.
Ring Rearrangement of 1,3‐Azasilinyl‐4‐epoxides to Synthesize 2‐Silamorpolines by a Si−C Bond Migration/Oxidation Process
Authors: Zhou Song , Tu Xiaoyu , He Yuanhang , Gao Lu , Song Zhen Lei
Published: July 2022

PhI(OAc)2/CuI‐promoted ring rearrangement of 1,3‐azasilinyl‐4‐epoxides has been developed. The reaction proceeds by a Si−C bond migration/oxidation process, leading to structurally novel 2‐silamorpolines containing an aryl/aldehyde groups‐substituted quaternary carbon.
Near‐Infrared and Dual Emissions of Diphenylamino Group‐Substituted Malachite Green Derivatives
Authors: Mori Toshiaki , Sekine Kohei , Kawashima Kyohei , Mori Toshifumi , Kuninobu Yoichiro
Published: July 2022

Novel triarylmethanols and triarylmethyl cations with diphenylamino groups were designed and synthesized. The triarylmethyl cations exhibited near‐infrared (NIR) emission in toluene solution, solid film state, and polystyrene (PS) film. The emission intensities of the triarylmethyl cations were strongest in the PS film. The relative quantum yield of the PS film increased as the number of diphenylamino groups increased. In addition, triarylmethanols exhibit dual emission in their aggregated state owing to the intermolecular interactions between triphenyl amine moieties and/or hydroxy groups. These findings are interesting because NIR and dual emissions are not observed in the dimethylamino group‐substituted triarylmethyl cation, which is referred to as the “malachite green,” and the corresponding triarylmethanol, respectively.
A Novel IMFET Biosensor Strategy for Interleukin‐10 Quantification for Early Screening Heart Failure Disease in Saliva
Authors: Ben Halima Hamdi , Bellagambi Francesca G. , Hangouët Marie , Alcacer Albert , Pfeiffer Norman , Heuberger Albert , Zine Nadia , Bausells Joan , Errachid Abdelhamid
Published: July 2022

We propose a salivary Interleukin‐10 detection strategy as part of an easily integrable Lab‐on‐Chip and Point‐of‐Care IMFET for multi‐detection Heart Failure (HF) biomarkers. Our developed IMFET showed good linearity between increasing IL‐10 concentration and the charge transfer resistance in both standard solutions and real saliva samples with a LOD of 0.02 pg mL−1. Moreover, the cross‐selectivity study showed that the developed IMFET was highly selective towards IL‐10 against other HF biomarkers. The precision of our IMFET was also evaluated, and the difference between the determined IL‐10 concentration using the standard addition method and its expected one is<20 %.
Nucleus‐specific RNAi nanoplatform for targeted regulation of nuclear lncRNA function and effective cancer therapy
Authors: Huang Zixian , Liu Shaomin , Lu Nan , Xu Lei , Shen Qian , Huang Zhuoshan , Huang Zhiquan , Saw Phei Er , Xu Xiaoding
Published: July 2022

In the context of cancer therapy, a recently identified therapeutic target is represented by the essential subtype of RNA transcripts ‐ the long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA). While this is the case, it is especially difficult to successfully regulate the expression of this subtype in vivo, particularly due to the protection granted by the nuclear envelope of nuclear lncRNAs. This study documents the development of a nucleus‐specific RNA interference (RNAi) nanoparticle (NP) platform for the targeted regulation of the nuclear lncRNA function, in order to effectuate successful cancer therapy. An NTPA (nucleus‐targeting peptide amphiphile) and an endosomal pH‐responsive polymer make up the novel RNAi nanoplatform in development, which is capable of complexing siRNA. The nanoplatform is capable of accumulating greatly in the tumor tissues and being internalized by tumor cells, following intravenous administration. The exposed complexes of the NTPA/siRNA may conveniently escape from the endosome with the pH‐triggered NP disassociation, following which it can target the nucleus by specifically interacting with the importin α/β heterodimer. In orthotopic and subcutaneous xenograft tumor models, this would result in a notable suppression of the expression of nuclear lncNEAT2 as well as greatly impede the growth of tumors in liver cancer.
Biological activities of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) tips and tubers
Authors: Hong Chae Young , Jo Yeon Jae , Kim Min Young , Chung Mi Nam , Choi Ehn‐Kyoung , Kim Yun‐Bae , Lee Junsoo , Jeong Heon Sang
Published: July 2022

This study was conducted to evaluate the biological activities of sweet potato tips and tubers. Antioxidant activity of 2,2‐azino‐bis 93‐ethlbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) and 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activities had the highest value of 32.45 mg, AAE/g, and 15.10 mg AAE/g, respectively, in ‘Pungwonmi’ tips. Angiotensin converting enzyme I inhibitory activity ranged between 47.72% in ‘Sinjami’ tubers and 62.25% in ‘Pungwonmi’ tips. α‐Glucosidase inhibitory activity had the highest value of 78.81% and 62.93% in ‘Pungwonmi’ tips and ‘Juhwangmi’ tubers, respectively. In particular, ‘Pungwonmi’ tips had the most effective inhibiting effect on intracellular reactive oxygen species levels in HepG2 cells. Wound healing assay result revealed that ‘Sinjami’ showed 75% wound healing effect. For skin whitening, ‘Pungwonmi’ tips showed 63% activity at 10 mg/ml. These results suggest that sweet potato tips and tubers can be used to develop functional food and cosmetic materials.
A bi‐objective ergonomic assembly line balancing model with conic scalarization method
Authors: Yetkin Busra N. , Kahya Emin
Published: July 2022

The most important factor affecting efficiency and ergonomic risk levels in an assembly line design is the problem of assigning certain tasks to certain stations, namely the assembly line balancing problem. In the literature, assembly line balancing problem has often been studied, but studies that consider ergonomic risks are deficient. Recently, it has been one of the issues that have started to attract great attention with the realization of health problems caused by assembly lines. To this end, in this study, a bi‐objective mathematical model is developed that considers balancing assembly line station time and ergonomic risk levels, simultaneously. It is aimed to minimize both station time and the total deviations of ergonomic risk scores for the stations. Weighted sum and conic scalarization methods are applied to solve the bi‐objective model. To analyze the outcomes of the developed model, an application is proposed and tested on a real industrial case, at a home appliance assembly line. The deployment of the OMAX method is a contribution to the literature since it shows an analysis tool which evaluates the results of assembly line balancing. This method evaluates the performance of the stations based on different criteria such as station time and ergonomic risk. The number of high‐risk stations is obtained as 13 in the single‐objective model aiming to minimize the station time, while it is found to be nine in the bi‐objective model solved with CSM, without an increase in the total number of stations.
Parametric study of fluidization conditions of bed sediments in the hyporheic zone
Authors: Marciniak Marek , Kaczmarek Mariusz , Matusiak Magdalena , Szczucińska Anna
Published: July 2022

The phenomenon of fluidization of the bed sediment of the hyporheic zone involves the production of dynamic suspension of solid particles in a stream of water flowing in the direction opposite to gravity. Fluidization may be permanent; then, it becomes a spring or a headwater zone, where groundwater discharge rate is almost unchanged within an entire hydrological year. But it can also occur periodically, depending on the changing hydrodynamic conditions. In such cases, the fluidization of the bed sediment of the hyporheic zone may disturb its functioning by changing the conditions of surface water and groundwater exchange. The disturbances affect hydrodynamic and hydrochemical processes connected with water exchange, but first of all, the living conditions of hyporheic zone flora and fauna. Therefore, the phenomenon of fluidization is significant for broadly understood ecology of the hyporheic zone. The paper presents the analysis of conditions of fluidization occurrence depending on the main hydrodynamic parameters that may affect this process. The authors analysed the influence of the difference in water level between the drained aquifer and the river, the hydraulic conductivity and anisotropy of the aquifer, the vertical hydraulic conductivity in the hyporheic zone, thickness of the hyporheic zone, and the width of the river on the possibility of fluidization of the bed sediment of the hyporheic zone. The range of variability of particular parameters corresponds to the actual variability of those parameters in natural conditions. It was proved that the fluidization of the bed sediment of the hyporheic zone mostly depends on: water level difference, hydraulic conductivity of the aquifer, and value of vertical hydraulic conductivity in the hyporheic zone. The other parameters have little influence on this process.