bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHIP control degradation of mutant ETF:QO through ubiquitylation in late‐onset multiple acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency
Authors: Liu Xin‐Yi , Chen Xue‐Jiao , Zhao Miao , Wang Zhi‐qiang , Chen Hai‐zhu , Li Hong‐Fu , Wang Chen‐Ji , Wu Shi‐Fei , Peng Chao , Yin Yue , Fu Hong‐Xia , Lin Min‐Ting , Yu Long , Xiong Zhi‐Qi , Wu Zhi‐Ying , Wang Ning
Published: January 2021

Late‐onset multiple acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD) is the most common form of lipid storage myopathy. The disease is mainly caused by mutations in electron‐transfer flavoprotein dehydrogenase gene (ETFDH), which leads to decreased levels of ETF:QO in skeletal muscle. However, the specific underlying mechanisms triggering such degradation remain unknown. We constructed expression plasmids containing wild type ETF:QO and mutants ETF:QO‐A84T, R175H, A215T, Y333C, and cultured patient‐derived fibroblasts containing the following mutations in ETFDH: c.250G>A (p.A84T), c.998A>G (p.Y333C), c.770A>G (p.Y257C), c.1254_1257delAACT (p. L418TfsX10), c.524G>A (p.R175H), c.380T>A (p.L127P), and c.892C>T (p.P298S). We used in vitro expression systems and patient‐derived fibroblasts to detect stability of ETF:QO mutants then evaluated their interaction with Hsp70 interacting protein CHIP with active/inactive ubiquitin E3 ligase carboxyl terminus using western blot and immunofluorescence staining. This interaction was confirmed in vitro and in vivo by co‐immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence staining. We confirmed the existence two ubiquitination sites in mutant ETF:QO using mass spectrometry (MS) analysis. We found that mutant ETF:QO proteins were unstable and easily degraded in patient fibroblasts and in vitro expression systems by ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway, and identified the specific ubiquitin E3 ligase as CHIP, which forms complex to control mutant ETF:QO degradation through poly‐ubiquitination. CHIP‐dependent degradation of mutant ETF:QO proteins was confirmed by MS and site‐directed mutagenesis of ubiquitination sites. Hsp70 is directly involved in this process as molecular chaperone of CHIP. CHIP plays an important role in ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway dependent degradation of mutant ETF:QO by working as a chaperone‐assisted E3 ligase, which reveals CHIP's potential role in pathological mechanisms of late‐onset MADD.
Association between red blood cell distribution width and mortality and severity among patients with COVID‐19: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lee Jane J. , Montazerin Sahar M. , Jamil Adeel , Jamil Umer , Marszalek Jolanta , Chuang Michael L. , Chi Gerald
Published: January 2021

Emerging evidence has underscored the potential usefulness of red blood cell distribution width (RDW) measurement in predicting the mortality and disease severity of COVID‐19. This study aimed to assess the association of the plasma RDW levels with adverse prognosis in COVID‐19 patients. A comprehensive literature search from inception to September 2020 was performed to harvest original studies reporting RDW on admission and clinical outcomes among patients hospitalized with COVID‐19. RDW levels were compared between cases (patients who died or developed more severe symptoms) and controls (patients who survived or developed less severe symptoms). A total of 14,866 subjects from 10 studies were included in the meta‐analysis. Higher levels of RDW were associated with adverse outcomes in COVID‐19 patients (mean differences = 0.72; 95% CI = 0.47–0.97; I2 = 89.51%). Deceased patients had higher levels of RDW compared to patients who survived (mean differences = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.63–1.23; I2 = 85.58%). Severely ill COVID‐19 patients showed higher levels of RDW, as opposed to patients classified to have milder symptoms (mean differences = 0.61; 95% CI = 0.28–0.94; I2 = 82.18%). Elevated RDW levels were associated with adverse outcomes in COVID‐19 patients. This finding warrants further research on whether RDW could be utilized as a simple and reliable biomarker for predicting COVID‐19 severity and whether RDW is mechanistically linked with COVID‐19 pathophysiology.
Detection of cardiac involvement in pulmonary sarcoidosis using high‐resolution Holter electrocardiogram
Authors: Maru Yujin , Yodogawa Kenji , Tanaka Toru , Kashiwada Takeru , Iwasaki Yu‐ki , Azuma Arata , Shimizu Wataru
Published: January 2021

Background

Early detection of cardiac involvement in patients with sarcoidosis is important but currently unresolved. The aim of this study was to elucidate the utility of frequency domain microvolt T‐wave alternans (TWA), signal‐averaged ECG (SAECG), and heart rate turbulence (HRT) using 24‐hour Holter ECG for detecting cardiac involvement in patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis.

Methods

This study consisted of consecutive 40 pulmonary sarcoidosis patients (11 males, 62 ± 13 years) who underwent 24‐hour Holter monitoring with and without cardiac involvement. All patients underwent frequency domain TWA, SAECG, and HRT using 24‐hour Holter monitoring. Patients with atrial fibrillation pacing or wide QRS electrocardiogram were excluded.

Results

After 14 patients were excluded, a total of 26 patients (six males, 59 ± 14 years) were evaluated. Seven patients had cardiac involvement (cardiac sarcoidosis [CS] group). On the Holter SAECG, duration of low‐amplitude signals <40 μV in the terminal filtered QRS complex (LAS40) was significantly higher, and root mean square voltage of the terminal 40 ms of the filtered QRS complex (RMS40) was significantly lower in the CS group compared with the non‐CS group (LAS40: 61.4 ± 35.9 vs 37.6 ± 9.2 ms; P = .018, RMS40: 11.4 ± 10.3 vs 23.6 ± 13.2 ms; P = .023). Prevalence of positive late potential (LP) was also significantly higher in the CS group than that in the non‐CS group (85.7% vs 31.5%; P = .026). The sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive values of LP for identifying patients with cardiac involvement were 85.7%, 68.4%, 50.0%, and 92.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

Holter SAECG may be useful for detecting cardiac involvement in patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis.
Detection and attribution of precipitation trends associated with the poleward shift of the South Atlantic Convergence Zone using CMIP5 simulations
Authors: Zilli Marcia T. , Carvalho Leila M. V.
Published: January 2021

Observational studies demonstrate a poleward shift in the South Atlantic Convergence Zone (SACZ) in recent decades with regional impacts on extreme precipitation. However, the relative contribution of anthropogenic forcing and natural variability to the observed trends is presently unknown. To evaluate the main forcings associated with the recent trends in precipitation rate consistent with the poleward shift of the SACZ, this study examines the last 40 years of the historical scenario of 20 global climate models participating in the fifth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5). The relative contribution of natural variability and anthropogenic‐related forcings to precipitation in the 20th century is assessed based on historical, natural, anthropogenic, and pre‐industrial simulations from CMIP5 models. Over the study area, precipitation trends simulated by the CMIP5 historical scenario are small, with large disagreement among models and members. Despite the small magnitude of the trends, the spatial pattern emerging is coherent with a poleward displacement of the SACZ, as indicated by a reduction (increase) in the precipitation rate over Southeastern Brazil (Southeastern South America). Even with large discrepancies among models, the attribution analysis suggests that precipitation trends could partially result from land‐use change, followed by changes in ozone concentrations, with more significant influence over Southeastern Brazil. The large uncertainty in the simulated precipitation suggests that not all mechanisms related to the position and intensity of the SACZ events are well captured by the CMIP5 models considered here.
Attitudes and Perceptions of Blenderized Tube Feed Use Among Physicians and Advanced Practice Providers
Authors: Eustace Kathleen , Cole Lillian , Hollaway Lauren
Published: January 2021

Background

Blenderized tube feeds (BTFs) have increased in popularity among enteral patients and their caregivers as an alternative to commercial formula. Motivations include ingredient flexibility, increased tolerance, and inclusion in family meals. Research has explored the attitudes and perceptions of patients, caregivers, and registered dietitian nutritionists but not those of physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs). The purpose of this study was to evaluate their attitudes and perceptions of BTFs.

Methods

A survey created via Research Electronic Data Capture tools was distributed to physicians and APPs to evaluate clinical practice characteristics, experience, knowledge, and perceptions of BTFs.

Results

Survey response rate was 17.3% (n = 206). Half of respondents reported familiarity with BTFs, but 95% of respondents had received no formal training regarding BTFs. Physicians reported higher levels of confidence in BTF knowledge than APPs. However, the overall level of confidence in BTF knowledge was poor, with a majority of respondents (73.3% [n = 151]) reporting either “not very confident” or “not confident at all.” The most perceived benefits included tailoring diet to better fit the patients’ needs (70.9% [146]) and psychological benefits (59.2% [122]). Barriers that most concerned respondents included tube occlusions (59.7% [123]) and nutrition inadequacy (47.6% [98]). χ2 Analysis revealed no relationship between type of provider and perceived benefits or barriers.

Conclusion

A majority of physicians and APPs are willing to support BTF use but lack education or guidance, resulting in poor confidence. Increased familiarity with BTF use and awareness of available education materials are required to help physicians and APPs support patients utilizing BTFs.
Nitrogen nutritional status in perennial grasses under defoliation: Do stubble height and mixed cultivation matter?
Authors: Américo Luana Fidelis , Duchini Paulo Gonçalves , Schmitt Daniel , Guzatti Gabriela Cristina , Lattanzi Fernando Alfredo , Sbrissia André Fischer
Published: January 2021

Background and aims: The concepts of critical nitrogen (N) concentration and nitrogen nutrition index (NNI) provide effective tools for assessing the N nutritional status of pastoral systems. However, no conclusive data exist concerning the effects of stubble height at harvest on the N dilution curve [N concentration (N%) = a(biomass)−b] and mixed species cultivation on N nutritional status of forage plants with contrasting growth strategies. To evaluate these effects, three cool‐season perennial grasses (exploitative, Arrhenatherum elatius L.; moderately exploitative, Dactylis glomerata L.; conservative, Festuca arundinacea Scherb.) were grown under different cultivation methods either as pure stands or as a mixture and conducted two experiments.

Methods: In experiment I, canopies of different grass species pure stands and mixtures were subjected to defoliation managements aimed to not exceed the critical LAI at harvest. Forage samples were collected from October 2015 to August 2016 to determine the N nutritional status throughout the seasons. In experiment II, half of each pure stand was mowed to 10 cm in height, and the other half to ground level. Thereafter, herbage samples were taken during regrowth to determine N dilution curves in both scenarios (from ground level and from stubble height of 10 cm).

Results: We verified an NNI above 0.8 during autumn and winter for A. elatius, D. glomerata, and the mixture but only in winter for F. arundinacea. Dactylis glomerata grown in the mixture had a lower N% than its pure stand during autumn and winter, whereas A. elatius and F. arundinacea showed no differences irrespective of cultivation method throughout the year. The three forage species presented classical dilution curves when regrowth was initiated from ground level, but quadratic trends were observed when regrowth was initiated from stubble heights of 10 cm.

Conclusions: Overall the N nutritional status of cool‐season perennial grasses was not affected by cultivation method when pastures were managed in conditions of non‐limiting N supply and with pre‐cut/grazing height targets derived from critical LAI measured at the full vegetative growth stage. Moreover, the N nutrition status in pastures managed under moderate/lenient defoliation should not be evaluated during periods of less intense canopy renewal and/or right after the cut/grazing events.
Effects of combined application of high‐pressure processing and active coatings on phenolic compounds and microbiological and physicochemical quality of apple cubes
Authors: Bambace María Florencia , del Rosario Moreira María , Sánchez‐Moreno Concepción , De Ancos Begoña
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

In recent years the use of high‐pressure processing (HPP) of fruit products has steadily increased due to its antimicrobial effectiveness and the retention of nutritional and quality attributes compared to conventional thermal technologies. Edible coatings are already being used to enhance the quality of minimally processed fruits. Thus, apple cubes (AC) and alginate–vanillin‐coated apple cubes (AVAC) were subjected to HPP (400 MPa/5 min/35 °C). The microbiological and physicochemical parameters were evaluated and the bioactive compounds were monitored before and after HPP of apple cubes. Also, an in vitro gastrointestinal digestion (GID) was conducted.

RESULTS

HPP left L. monocytogenes counts below the detection limit (2 log UFC g−1), regardless of the presence of coating. For E. coli, HPP + active coating showed a synergism affording the greatest reduction (>5 log) for AVAC‐HPP. Firmness was maintained in AVAC‐HPP samples, while AC‐HPP samples suffered reductions of 35%. Colour attributes were also better retained in AVAC‐HPP samples. In general, HPP led to a decrease in phenolic compounds. Regarding the effects of GID, vanillin‐based active coating exerted a protective effect on some phenolics. Thus, p‐coumaroylquinic acid concentration was maintained for AVAC and AVAC‐HPP during GID. Epigallocatechin, the compound with the highest concentration in apple cubes, increased for AVAC (106%) and AVAC‐HPP (57%). Also, phloridzin concentration increased for AVAC‐HPP (17%). At the end of GID, procyanidin B1 and epigallocatechin were the main phenolic compounds for all samples, AVAC showing the highest concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

This work demonstrates that the combined application of HPP and active coatings on apple cubes could be used to obtain a safe and good‐quality product. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of ultrasonic pretreatment monitored by real‐time online technologies on dried preparation time and yield during extraction process of okra pectin
Authors: Zhang Lei , Hu Yang , Wang Bei , Xu Xin , Yagoub Abu ElGasim A , Fakayode Olugbenga Abiola , Ma Haile , Zhou Cunshan
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Ultrasonic pretreatment is a novel physical method that can be used in the extraction process of okra pectin. Real‐time online monitoring technologies were introduced in time and frequency domains when okra was pretreated. Preparation time of dried okra and yield of okra pectin were studied; and physicochemical properties of okra pectin were analyzed at the optimum ultrasonic parameter.

RESULTS

Results showed that ultrasonic intensity of sweeping‐frequency ultrasonic (SFU) pretreatment was stronger than that of fixed‐frequency ultrasonic pretreatment (FFU). SFU pretreatment (60 ± 1 kHz) at 30 min had a strong ultrasonic voltage peak of 0.05387 V and signal power peak of −6.62 dBm. The preparation time of dried okra was 160 ± 14.14 min in the pretreated group, 44.83% lower than control without SFU pretreatment. The intercellular space was 56.03% higher than control. Water diffusion coefficient increased from 1.41 × 10−9 to 2.14 × 10−9 m2 s−1. Monobasic quadratic equations were developed for the monitored ultrasonic intensity and pectin yield. Compared to control, extraction yield (16.70%), pectin content (0.564 mg mg−1), solubility (0.8187 g g−1) and gel strength (30.91 g) were improved in the pretreated group. Viscosity decreased, and values of G′ and G″ crossing at 63 rad s−1 revealed the viscoelastic behavior and the beginning of viscous behavior with a sol state.

CONCLUSION

Decrement of dried preparation time and increment of yield were achieved by ultrasonic pretreatment during the extraction process of okra pectin, and the relationship of ultrasonic intensity monitored by real‐time online technologies and yield was given. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Blood testis barrier revisited—Analysis of post‐chemotherapy germ cell tumor orchidectomy and retroperitoneal lymph node dissection specimens
Authors: Gupta Amit , Noronha Jarin , Bakshi Ganesh , Menon Santosh , Pal Mahendra , Joshi Amit , Prabash Kumar , Noronha Vanita , Murthy Vedang , Krishnattry Rahul , Patil Akshay , Prakash Gagan J.
Published: January 2021

Objective

To assess the response of chemotherapy on the primary tumor, compare it with the response in retroperitoneal disease, and study factors associated with pathological complete response.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective audit of all high inguinal orchidectomies (HIOs) performed after chemotherapy between 2012 and 2019 at a tertiary cancer center in India. Patient characteristics and histopathological response were extracted from electronic medical records, and predictors of testicular disease response were assessed.

Results

Of the 260 retroperitoneal lymph node dissections (RPLNDs) performed in the study period, 37 HIOs (14.23%) were carried out after chemotherapy. The median age of presentation was 28 years (16–41). Histopathology was divided into a viable tumor, mature teratoma, and necrosis/scarring. Residual disease was seen in 17 RPLND (46.0%) and 18 HIO (48.6%) specimens respectively. Of these 18, three patients had a residual viable tumor in the testis, and the remaining had a mature teratoma. Clinico‐radiological assessment showed an average reduction of 61% in testicular disease size following chemotherapy. On orchidectomy histopathological assessment, the median tumor size was 9, 4, and 1.5 cm in specimens with a viable tumor, mature teratoma, and necrosis/scarring, respectively.

Conclusions

A low threshold for upfront chemotherapy in patients with a high disease burden may be considered as tumors within the testis respond to chemotherapy in more than half of the patients. Discordance rates of residual cancer in RPLND and HIO specimens exist but post‐chemotherapy tumor size in testis correlates with the presence of a residual viable tumor.
Cucurbituril and zwitterionic surfactant‐based matrix solid‐phase dispersion microextraction to simultaneously determine terpenoids from Radix Curcumae
Authors: Chen Yan , Zhen Xiao‐Ting , Yu Ya‐Ling , Shi Min‐Zhen , Cao Jun , Zheng Hui , Ye Li‐Hong
Published: January 2021

A rapid, efficient, and environmentally friendly matrix solid‐phase dispersion microextraction was established to determine and quantify terpenoids in Radix Curcumae using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector. Various parameters affecting the extraction were investigated in detail, such as the grinding time, amount of adsorbent, type and concentration of elution solvent, and pH. The optimization of single‐factor and response surface methodology was performed to confirm the best conditions in this procedure. The final optimized conditions were obtained by applying 70 mg of cucurbituril as adsorbent, 149 s as the optimum grinding time, and 228 mM of 3‐(N,N‐dimethylpalmitylammonio)propanesulfonate aqueous solution (pH 6.5) as the optimal elution solvent. The validated method showed a satisfactory linear range of 0.10–10 µg/mL for curdione and furanodiene, 0.01–10 µg/mL for isocurcumenol and germacrone, and 0.05–10 µg/mL for furanodienone, while the correlation coefficients ranged from 0.9945 to 0.9970. The recoveries of the investigated analytes at two spiked concentration levels (0.1 and 1.0 µg/mL) ranged from 96.53 to 104.60%. In addition, this method displayed acceptable reproducibility (relative standard deviation ≤ 3.66%). The results showed that the newly proposed matrix solid‐phase dispersion microextraction method was successfully applied to analyze curdione, isocurcumenol, furanodienone, germacrone and furanodiene in Radix Curcumae samples.
The Significance of Fetal Brain Ventricular Asymmetry Without Dilation
Authors: Meyer Raanan , Bar‐Yosef Omer , Barzilay Eran , Radinsky Igal , Segal Chen Key , Ziv‐Baran Tomer , Shani Hagit , Levin Gabriel , Katorza Eldad
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Fetal brain non‐dilated ventricular asymmetry (NDVA) is a common finding on prenatal ultrasound exams. However, the optimal prenatal management in these cases remains unknown. We aimed to evaluate the benefit of prenatal genetic and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams performed in cases of fetal NDVA detected on ultrasound.

Methods

A historical cohort study from a tertiary medical center. Singleton pregnancies with fetal brain NDVA diagnosed on ultrasound were included. We defined ventricular asymmetry as a difference of ≥2.0 mm between the lateral ventricles and ventricular dilation as ventricular width of >10.0 mm. Outcomes were evaluated with genetic exams (karyotype and chromosomal microarray analysis [CMA]) and fetal brain MRI.

Results

During the study period, there were 145 cases diagnosed with NDVA on ultrasound that comprised the cohort study. The rate of abnormal karyotype was 1.8% (1/56) and of abnormal CMA was 10% (3/30). The rate of minor additional CNS findings did not differ between ultrasound and MRI (3.4 versus 2.8%, respectively, p = .74). No major additional fetal brain findings were detected on MRI performed after ultrasound.

Conclusions

In cases diagnosed with NDVA on ultrasound, no significant additional anomalies were detected on fetal brain MRI. The rate of abnormal genetic tests was relatively high and warrants further studies.
Fetal‐TAPSE for Surveillance of Cardiac Function in Growth‐Restricted Fetuses With a Portosystemic Shunt
Authors: Bardin Ron , Perlman Sharon , Hadar Eran , Mozer Glassberg Yael , Bruckheimer Elchanan , Silber Michal , Gilboa Yinon
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Congenital portosystemic shunt (CPSS) in a growth‐restricted fetus may lead to cardiac overload and ultimately hemodynamic imbalance. The aim of the study was to describe the application of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) for surveillance of cardiac function in growth‐restricted fetuses diagnosed with CPSS.

Methods

The study group consisted of 7 fetuses with growth restriction diagnosed with CPSS between 2018 and 2020. Patients were followed longitudinally every 2 weeks. Sonographic fetal‐TAPSE (f‐TAPSE) was performed every 2 weeks. At each visit, the following parameters were recorded: estimated fetal weight, biophysical profile, nonstress test, Doppler flow indices, and fetal cardiothoracic index. Postnatal laboratory and imaging tests were retrieved from the medical files.

Results

Mean gestational age at diagnosis of CPSS was 32 + 1 weeks. Cardiomegaly was observed in all cases. All portosystemic shunts were classified as intrahepatic. Values of f‐TAPSE were above the 95th percentile in 6/7 fetuses at presentation and throughout follow‐up. Gestational age at delivery ranged between 36 + 5 and 38 + 5 weeks. Postnatally, spontaneous closure of the shunt was noted in 2 infants. Transient hyperammonemia was diagnosed in 2 neonates, with no signs of the characteristic complication.

Conclusions

In growth‐restricted fetuses diagnosed concomitantly with CPSS, f‐TAPSE offers a practical sonographic tool for assessment of cardiac function and may serve as an additional clinical marker for follow‐up. The appearance of cardiomegaly in growth‐restricted fetuses should prompt a dedicated sonographic evaluation of the fetal portal system.
Mulching and technological interventions avoid land degradation in an intensive oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) production system
Authors: Manorama Kamireddy , Behera Sanjib Kumar , Suresh Kancherla , Prasad Musunuru Venkata , Mathur Ravi Kumar , Harinarayana Parasa
Published: January 2021

Soil quality characteristics are poorly understood after cultivating oil palm (OP) under irrigated conditions. OP grown under irrigated ecosystem on tropical soils is supplied with huge quantities of water and nutrients without considering changes in soil quality parameters. This may lead to the degradation of fertile lands. To understand the changes that take place in soil properties due to different management practices, data from 132 fixed points have been collected in West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh in India, from 13‐year‐old plantations and for ca 6 years after imposing mulching and improved resource management interventions. Improvement in soil organic carbon (SOC) content, cation exchange capacity (CEC) available N, P, K, Mg and B contents were recorded due to mulching and improved management. In a monocrop stand of oil palm, mulching alone could enhance SOC content by 52% at 13 years after planting, whereas the corresponding improvement in an intercrop stand (with cocoa) was 77%, above its conventional cultivation SOC without mulching. Mulching in combination with improved management could enhance the SOC content by 40 and 56% respectively after 6 years in sole and intercrop stands respectively, over their corresponding levels at 13 years, in the top 0–30 cm layer. Conventional cultivation of OP recorded a reduction of SOC by 4% during the same time‐span of 6 years. Similar trend was observed in soil available nutrients also. The partial least squares (PLS)‐path model confirmed that sustainable production of oil palm is possible through mulching and improved management.
1.4‐mJ High Energy Terahertz Radiation from Lithium Niobates
Authors: Zhang Baolong , Ma Zhenzhe , Ma Jinglong , Wu Xiaojun , Ouyang Chen , Kong Deyin , Hong Tianshu , Wang Xuan , Yang Peidi , Chen Liming , Li Yutong , Zhang Jie
Published: January 2021

Free‐space super‐strong terahertz (THz) electromagnetic fields offer multifaceted capabilities for reaching extreme nonlinear THz optics. However, the lack of powerful solid‐state THz sources with single pulse energy >1 mJ is impeding the proliferation of extreme THz applications. The fundamental challenge lies in hard to achieve high efficiency due to high intensity pumping caused crystal damage, linear absorption, and nonlinear distortion induced short effective interaction length, and so on. Here, through cryogenically cooling the crystals, tailoring the pump laser spectra, chirping the pump pulses, and magnifying the laser energies, 1.4‐mJ THz pulses are successfully realized in lithium niobates under the excitation of 214‐mJ femtosecond laser pulses via tilted pulse front technique. The 800 nm‐to‐THz energy conversion efficiency reaches 0.7%, and a free‐space THz peak electric and magnetic field reaches 6.3 MV cm−1 and 2.1 Tesla. Numerical simulations reproduce the experimental optimization processes. To show the capability of this super‐strong THz source, nonlinear absorption in high conductive silicon induced by strong THz electric field is demonstrated. Such a high‐energy THz source with a relatively low peak frequency is very appropriate not only for electron acceleration toward table‐top X‐ray sources but also for extreme THz science and nonlinear applications.
Single‐Particle Characterization by Elastic Light Scattering
Authors: Romanov Andrey V. , Yurkin Maxim A.
Published: January 2021

The field of light‐scattering characterization of single particles has seen a rapid growth over the last 30 years largely due to the progress in measurement and simulation capabilities. In particular, several methods have been developed to reliably characterize various particles, described by a model with several characteristics, with geometric resolution significantly better than the diffraction limit. However, their development has been largely fragmentary, limited to specific experimental set‐ups. To fill this gap, these lines of development are reviewed within a unified framework. While focusing on characterization algorithms themselves, the experimental aspects related to the isolation and measurement of single particles are also discussed. The existing characterization methods are divided into three classes. The widest class is that of model‐driven methods based on solving parametric inverse light‐scattering problems, using a direct inversion of a low‐dimensional mapping, a nonlinear regression, or neural networks. Other classes include model‐free reconstruction methods and data‐driven classification methods. This review is designed to be extensive in including all relevant literature, but the discussion of semi‐quantitative imaging methods, such as tomography or holography‐based reconstruction, is deliberately omitted. Throughout the review the development of various characterization methods is described, they are critically compared, and promising directions of future research are highlighted.
Lyotropic Morphology Transition of Double Zwitterionic Diblock Copolymer Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Takahashi Masaya , Shimizu Akane , Yusa Shin‐ichi , Higaki Yuji
Published: January 2021

Polymer concentration‐dependent aqueous lyotropic morphology transition of a double zwitterionic diblock copolymer composed of a poly(carboxybetaine methacrylate) (PCB) and poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) (PSB) is unraveled employing small‐angle X‐ray scattering. Salt‐free aqueous solutions of the well‐defined diblock copolymer produce ordered periodic structure and the morphology transforms from hexagonally close‐packed cylinder to lamellar with decreasing the polymer concentration. The morphology transition is induced by the preferential distribution of water molecules into the PCB domains below threshold polymer concentration because of the limited water capacity of the PSB network domains. The volume fraction modulation causes the instability of phase boundary curvature urging the morphology transition. The precise ordered nanostructure control of the highly biocompatible double zwitterionic block copolymers is valid for responsive biocompatible molecular design in biomaterials.
The Influences of Sulfoxide Electron Traps in Transparent Polyimides with Low Retardation, Yellow Index, and CTE
Authors: Jiang Pengfei , Shen Jiulin , Wang Yao , Zhang Jibin , Liu Xiangfu , Tu Guoli
Published: January 2021

Due to the development of dynamic flexible organic light‐emitting diode displays, colorless polyimides (CPI) as the supporting or protecting optical films, are facing significant challenges due to the requirements of optical, mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties. Typical CPIs are derived from TFDB (2,2‐bis(trifluoro‐methyl)‐4,4′‐diaminobiphenyl)/6FDA (4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride), which still need to be improved in both dimensional stability and optical performance. In this communication, a strong electron acceptor group, the sulfoxide bond, is first introduced into the TFDB block of CPI chains. Based on this introduction, the distribution of the electron cloud in the polymer chain is reconstructed under the strongly pulling electron effect, and the spatial conformation of the polymer chain is also affected by the rigid and twisted sulfoxide group. The influences on CPI's optical properties, especially the refractive index and the retardation, are studied and discussed in detail by experimental results and theoretical calculations. It is shown that the CPI with the sulfoxide group exhibits higher optical transparency, lower yellow index, phase retardation and coefficient of thermal expansion, which is an ideal material for CPI optical films.
Fabrication of High Performance PET/TLCP Fibers through the Synergistic Interfacial Enhancement and Compatibilization of Functional 1D and 2D Carbon Nanomaterials
Authors: Yu Wenguang , Gao Xuefeng , Wang Yuzhou , Wang Xuechen , Zhang Xingxiang
Published: January 2021

The maleic anhydride functionalized graphene oxide (GO‐MA) is fabricated by an efficient and solvent‐free Diels–Alder reaction. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/thermotropic liquid crystal polyester (TLCP), PET/TLCP/GO‐MA, PET/TLCP/aminated multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs‐NH2), and PET/TLCP/GO‐MA/MWCNTs‐NH2composite fibers are systematically melt‐spun. The structure and compatibilizing effects of GO‐MA and MWCNTs‐NH2on the mechanical, thermal, and crystallization properties of the composite fibers are indicated. The non‐isothermal crystallization kinetics and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) data show that TLCP and nanofillers can change the crystalline morphology of PET. The mechanical properties of the fibers rise with increasing TLCP content. The tensile strength 929 MPa and modulus 17.5 GPa of the fibers with 7 wt% TLCP and 0.25 wt% nanofillers (0.1 wt% GO‐MA and 0.15 wt% MWCNTs‐NH2) are significantly higher than those with 7 wt% TLCP (tensile strength 622 MPa and modulus 16.1 GPa) and even higher than those with 15% TLCP (tensile strength 836 MPa, and modulus 18.0 GPa). When the GO‐MA and MWCNTs‐NH2co‐exist, the anti‐dripping phenomenon is improved. Therefore, the TLCP, GO, and MWCNTs synergistically strengthens the mechanical properties. This is promising for the industrial fabrication of high‐strength fibers.
Drawing the Battle Lines in Public Areas
Authors: Wich Scott
Published: January 2021

Union organizers have a full arsenal of potential pressure points to use against a target employer. Often, such leverage involves employees themselves – making complaints to OSHA, the Department of Labor or the courts, for example. Sometimes, it involves political pressure on government officials or social media campaigns to appeal to the public.
Biased managers in vertically related markets
Authors: Meccheri Nicola
Published: January 2021

This paper analyses the choice of managers' types in a vertical structure with a common input supplier. Depending on the degree of product differentiation, the choice of either an overconfident or an underconfident manager can arise whatever the downstream competition mode. In addition, when competition is in quantities, the well‐known prisoner's dilemma result of strategic delegation does not apply when owners optimally delegate to underconfident managers. Instead, under price competition, a prisoner's dilemma applies but only when the strategic decision is optimally delegated to overconfident managers. Relative to the endogenous market structure, a novel outcome with multiple asymmetric equilibria arises when the degree of product differentiation is low. Introducing multiple upstream suppliers confirms the importance of taking the structure of upstream markets into account in assessing the strategic choices by downstream firms.
Detroit health system seeks upgrade of inpatient care via partnership
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: January 2021

Leading academic medical center Henry Ford Health System has chosen the large Acadia Healthcare behavioral health network as its partner in an effort to modernize its Detroit‐area inpatient behavioral health care operations.
Analytical modeling of matrix–vector multiplication on multicore processors
Authors: Gareev Roman A. , Akimova Elena N.
Published: January 2021

The efficiency of matrix–vector multiplication is of considerable importance. No current approaches can optimize this sufficiently well under severe time constraints. All major existing methods are based on either manual‐tuning or auto‐tuning and can therefore be time‐consuming. We introduce an alternative model‐driven approach, which is used to map the implementation of matrix–vector multiplication to a target architecture and analytically obtain its parameters. The approach yields the performance that is competitive with optimized Basic Linear Algebra Subprograms (BLAS)‐like dense linear algebra libraries without the need for manual‐tuning or auto‐tuning. Our method provides competitive performance across hardware architectures and can be utilized to obtain single‐threaded and multi‐threaded implementations on multicore processors. We expect that this approach allows the community to progress from valuable engineering solutions to techniques with a broader application.
Mild solutions of a fractional partial differential equation with noise
Authors: Bouteraa Noureddine , Inc Mustafa , Akinlar Mehmet Ali , Bin‐Mohsin Bandar
Published: January 2021

This article focuses on studying mild solutions of an original fractional partial differential equation disturbed by multiplicative white noise. We employ techniques of semigroup theory, Hausdorff measure, and Darbo fixed point theorem.
Identifying the initial state for a parabolic diffusion from their time averages with fractional derivative
Authors: Ngoc Thach Tran , Huu Can Nguyen , Viet Tri Vo
Published: January 2021

The main purpose of this paper is to study a problem of recovering a parabolic equation with fractional derivative from its time averaging. This problem can be established as a new boundary value problem where a Cauchy condition is replaced by a prescribed time average of the solution. By applying some properties of the Mittag–Leffler function, we set some of the results above existence, uniqueness, and regularity of the mild solutions of the proposed problem in some suitable space. Moreover, we also show the ill‐posedness of our problem in the sense of Hadamard. The regularized solution is given, and convergence rate between the regularized solution and the exact solution in Lp space is also derived.
Stability and bifurcation analysis of hepatitis B‐type virus infection model
Authors: Prakash Mani , Rakkiyappan Rajan , Manivannan Annamalai , Zhu Haitao , Cao Jinde
Published: January 2021

The main aim of this study is to analyze the dynamical properties of hepatitis B‐type virus (HBV) infection in terms of mathematical model. The presented mathematical model on HBV involves the various factors such as immune impairment, total carrying capacity, logistic growth term, and antiretroviral therapies. In addition, the effect of time delays is also considered into the model, which are inevitable during the activation of immune response and time taken to infect the healthy cells. Mathematically, the qualitative analyses such as stability, bifurcation, and stabilization analysis are performed to explore the dynamical characteristics of HBV over the period of time. The significance of the model parameters is revealed through Hopf‐type bifurcation analysis and the global stability analysis of the proposed model. With the help of data set values that are extracted from the literature, the efficiency of the derived theoretical results is explored.
A general semianalytical method for computing the propagation characteristics of radially inhomogeneous cylindrical dielectric waveguides
Authors: Weng Qianru , Pan Sichen , Lu Chujie
Published: January 2021

A general and simple semianalytical method based on the Galerkin procedure is introduced in this letter for wave propagation problems related to radially inhomogeneous cylindrical dielectric waveguides with arbitrary permittivity profiles. The complicated wave propagation problem in an inhomogeneous waveguide is transformed into a simple problem of solving an equivalent matrix in terms of the Galerkin procedure. Eigenvalue solutions are given for three kinds of representative radially inhomogeneous cylinders to verify the generality of the proposed semianalytical method. The accuracy and the improvement of the convergency are illustrated by comparing the calculated results with those obtained by the analytical method or the matrix numerical method.
Mapping of CSF transport using high spatiotemporal resolution dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI in mice: Effect of anesthesia
Authors: Stanton Evan Hunter , Persson Niklas Daniel Åke , Gomolka Ryszard Stefan , Lilius Tuomas , Sigurðsson Björn , Lee Hedok , Xavier Anna Lenice Ribeiro , Benveniste Helene , Nedergaard Maiken , Mori Yuki
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI (DCE‐MRI) represents the only available approach for glymphatic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow 3D mapping in the brain of living animals and humans. The purpose of this study was to develop a novel DCE‐MRI protocol for mapping of the glymphatic system transport with improved spatiotemporal resolution, and to validate the new protocol by comparing the transport in mice anesthetized with either isoflurane or ketamine/xylazine.

Methods

The contrast agent, gadobutrol, was administered into the CSF of the cisterna magna and its transport visualized continuously on a 9.4T preclinical scanner using 3D fast‐imaging with a steady‐state free‐precession sequence (3D‐FISP), which has a spatial resolution of 0.001 mm3 and a temporal resolution of 30 s. The MR signals were measured dynamically for 60 min in multiple volumes of interest covering the entire CSF space and brain parenchyma.

Results

The results confirm earlier findings that glymphatic CSF influx is higher under ketamine/xylazine than with isoflurane anesthesia. This was extended to account for new details about the distinct CSF efflux pathways under the two anesthetic regimens. Dynamic contrast MR shows that CSF clearance occurs mainly along the vagus nerve near the jugular vein under isoflurane and via the olfactory bulb under ketamine/xylazine.

Conclusion

The improved spatial and temporal sampling rates afforded by 3D‐FISP shed new light on the pharmacological modulation of CSF efflux paths. The present observations may have the potential to set a new standard for future experimental DCE‐MRI studies of the glymphatic system.
Insights into the effect of bromine‐based organic salts on the efficiency and stability of wide bandgap perovskite
Authors: Cui Xinghua , Wang Pengyang , Shi Biao , Zhao Ying , Zhang Xiaodan
Published: January 2021

Wide bandgap perovskite solar cells (WB‐PSCs) sustained serious deficit of open‐circuit voltage (VOC) and instability in the development process, which limited the full play of their advantages, especially in tandem solar cells. Surface passivation engineering of alkyl amine halide salts has been used extensively to improve the performance of PSCs. Here, the photovoltaic performance of FA0.83Cs0.17 Pb(I0.8Br0.2)3 WB‐PSCs based on methyl bromide (MABr) and bromide guanidine (GABr) passivation was systematically investigated. It was proved that both MABr and GABr significantly passivate the defects, resulting in lower trap density. Eventually, the efficiency arrives at 18.6% based on MABr‐treated perovskite film, and an improved VOC up to 1.235 V was obtained with a VOC‐deficit of only 415 mV, which is one of the highest value for the PSCs with 1.65 eV bandgap. It is noted that the devices treated with MABr exhibited enhanced moisture stability than that of the reference and GABr treated. X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD) revealed that GABr is likely to cause severer phase transition to δ‐phase nonperovskite. This paper provides an important insight to surface passivation strategies, both performance and stability in devices need to be considered simultaneously.
Simple and efficient continuous data assimilation of evolution equations via algebraic nudging
Authors: Rebholz Leo G. , Zerfas Camille
Published: January 2021

We introduce, analyze, and test an interpolation operator designed for use with continuous data assimilation (DA) of evolution equations that are discretized spatially with the finite element method. The interpolant is constructed as an approximation of the L2 projection operator onto piecewise constant functions on a coarse mesh, but which allows nudging to be done completely at the linear algebraic level, independent of the rest of the discretization, with a diagonal matrix that is simple to construct; it can even completely remove the need for explicit construction of a coarse mesh. We prove the interpolation operator has sufficient stability and accuracy properties, and we apply it to algorithms for both fluid transport DA and incompressible Navier–Stokes DA. For both applications we prove the DA solutions with arbitrary initial conditions converge to the true solution (up to discretization error) exponentially fast in time, and are thus long‐time accurate. Results of several numerical tests are given, which both illustrate the theory and demonstrate its usefulness on practical problems.
Different osteoconductivity of PLLA/PHB composite nanofibers prepared by one‐ and two‐nozzle electrospinning
Authors: Sabouri Elham , Rezaie Zahra , Enderami Seyed Ehsan , Mirahmadi Mahdi , Askari Mohammad
Published: January 2021

Electrospinning is a method that has a high potential for use in tissue engineering due to its simplicity, cheapness, versatility, and high applicability for preparing of composite nanofibrous scaffolds. In this study, nanofibrous scaffolds were made of poly‐l‐lactic acid (PLLA) and Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) polymers by electrospinning single‐nozzle (combined polymers: C‐PLLA/PHB) and two‐nozzle (separated polymers: S‐PLLA/PHB). Constructed scaffolds were characterized using SEM, in vitro degradation, cell attachment, protein adsorption, and nontoxicity assays. Then, scaffolds osteoconductive capacity was investigated by culturing adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) and by evaluating common osteogenic markers. Obtained results displayed that fibers diameter, scaffold degradation, and biocompatibility of S‐PLLA/PHB nanofibrous scaffold were increased compared to the C‐PLLA/PHB nanofibers. In addition, significantly increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, calcium content, and osteogenic‐related gene expression were also observed in the ADSCs cultured on S‐PLLA/PHB nanofibrous scaffold compared to the cultured cells on C‐PLLA/PHB nanofibrous scaffold. Overall, this study shows that using two‐nozzle electrospinning to constructing PLLA/PHB nanofibrous scaffold can improve its osteoconductive capacity, and also its combination with ADSCs can be a promising candidate to use in bone tissue engineering.
Morphological, mechanical, and thermal characterization of electrospun three‐dimensional graphite nanoplatelets/polystyrene ultra‐fine fibril composite fabrics
Authors: Fayed A. S. , Abu‐Hasel K. A. , Mahdy Sameh M. , Ali Ashraf A.
Published: January 2021

Ultra‐fine fibril composites were produced by electrospinning of a polymer solution containing polystyrene (PS)/dimethylformamide (DMF) with different concentrations of three‐dimensional graphite nanoplatelets (3D‐GNPs). Berry's number of PS/DMF polymer solution was extensively studied to produce minimum electrospun PS fiber diameters. Three‐dimensional GNPs of different weight percentages were dispersed in the optimized PS/DMF to produce ultrafine fibril composite fabric. The electrospun average diameters decreased from 1.5 μm for PS fibers to 890 nm for 3D‐GNPs/PS fibril composites, respectively, at 12 and 9.8 Berry's number. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy samples' micrographs confirm a homogenous dispersion and alignment of 3D‐GNPs in PS fibril composites. Thermal and mechanical characteristics of fabrics were determined using thermogravimetric analysis, thermomechanical Analysis, and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). It was found that there was an increase in percentage elongation, tensile strength, thermal stability, and glass‐transition temperature for 3D‐GNPs PS fibril composite fabrics compared to PS fabrics. Diminishing the value of loss tangent, measured by DMA, was used as an approach to predict the maximum amount of 3D‐GNPs weight percent dispersion in electrospun PS/dimethylformamide solution. One of the most important potential applications of the electrospun 3D‐GNPs/PS fibril composite fabrics is in the interiors of vehicles and aerospace industries as it characterizes by its good thermal and mechanical properties as well as its low density.