bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flexible Polypyrrole@Fe2O3@Stainless Steel Yarn Composite Electrode for Symmetric Thread‐Like Supercapacitor with Extended Operating Voltage Window in Li2SO4‐Based Aqueous Electrolyte
Authors: Zuo Wusheng , Zang Limin , Wang Xue , Liu Qifan , Qiu Jianhui , Liang Chunliu , Liu Xin , Yang Chao
Published: September 2020

A flexible symmetric thread‐like supercapacitor (TSC) with high operating voltage window and good electrochemical performance is manufactured, that fulfills the requirements of wearable electronics. First, iron oxide (Fe2O3) nanosheets are directly grown in situ on the surface of stainless steel yarn (SSY) by an acid corrosion and self‐oxidation process, and then a polypyrrole (PPy) coating is covered on the surface of Fe2O3 nanosheets via chemical oxide method to obtain the thread‐like PPy@Fe2O3@SSY composite electrode. The electrode achieves a wide potential range of −1.0–0.8 V (versus Ag/AgCl) and a high areal specific capacitance of 667.8 mF cm−2 with outstanding galvanostatic charge/discharge cycling stability of 87.5% capacitance retention after 10 000 cycles in 1 m lithium sulfate (Li2SO4) aqueous solution. The symmetric TSC based on the PPy@Fe2O3@SSY electrode and carboxymethyl cellulose sodium salt/Li2SO4 gel electrolyte exhibits a wide operating voltage window of 1.8 V, and its maximum energy density can reach 39.3 μWh cm−2. Additionally, the TSC demonstrates excellent electrochemical performance under various bending states and a bending cycling test. The preparation method and raw materials are low‐cost and scalable, and the overall performance of the TSC is excellent, which makes this device a promising energy storage device for wearable electronics.
3D Bioinspired Microstructures for Switchable Repellency in both Air and Liquid
Authors: Liu Xiaojiang , Gu Hongcheng , Ding Haibo , Du Xin , Wei Mengxiao , Chen Qiang , Gu Zhongze
Published: September 2020

In addition to superhydrophobicity/superoleophobicity, surfaces with switchable water/oil repellency have also aroused considerable attention because of their potential values in microreactors, sensors, and microfluidics. Nevertheless, almost all those as‐prepared surfaces are only applicable for liquids with higher surface tension (γ > 25.0 mN m−1) in air. In this work, inspired by some natural models, such as lotus leaf, springtail skin, and filefish skin, switchable repellency for liquids (γ = 12.0–72.8 mN m−1) in both air and liquid is realized via employing 3D deformable multiply re‐entrant microstructures. Herein, the microstructures are fabricated by a two‐photon polymerization based 3D printing technique and the reversible deformation is elaborately tuned by evaporation‐induced bending and immersion‐induced fast recovery (within 30 s). Based on 3D controlled microstructural architectures, this work offers an insightful explanation of repellency/penetration behavior at any three‐phase interface and starts some novel ideas for manipulating opposite repellency by designing/fabricating stimuli‐responsive microstructures.
Wrinkled‐Surface‐Induced Memristive Behavior of MoS2 Wrapped GaN Nanowires
Authors: Ji Yu‐Hang , Huang An‐Ping , Yang Meng‐Qi , Gao Qin , Yang Xiu‐Li , Chen Xue‐Liang , Wang Mei , Xiao Zhi‐Song , Wang Ru‐Zhi , Chu Paul K.
Published: September 2020

1D memristors with nonvolatile memristive characteristics have large potential in brain‐like neuromorphic computation and digital logic circuits. Herein, a novel memristive device based on wrinkled MoS2 wrapped GaN nanowires (NWs) with a spray‐coated Ag NWs network top electrode is described. The memristive device shows good stability/durability and retention characteristics for 798 cycles and 3.4 × 103 s, respectively, together with low switching voltages. A memristive model based on filament formation/rupture in the wrinkled surface of the NWs is proposed by analyzing the conductive characteristics and surface structure. Bipolar resistive switching is governed by the electric field associated with the wrinkled structure giving rise to migration of oxygen ions along the wrinkled surface of the NWs. The results enrich the knowledge pertaining to the design and optimization of memristors composed of NWs and also provide insights into the memristive behavior of memristors composed of 1D materials.
Aqueous Redox Flow Battery Suitable for High Temperature Applications Based on a Tailor‐Made Ferrocene Copolymer
Authors: Borchers Philipp S. , Strumpf Maria , Friebe Christian , Nischang Ivo , Hager Martin D. , Elbert Johannes , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: September 2020

Water‐soluble, and ferrocene‐containing methacrylamide copolymers with different comonomer ratios of the solubility‐promoting comonomer [2‐(methacryloyloxy)‐ethyl]‐trimethylammonium chloride (METAC) are synthesized in order to obtain a novel, temperature‐stable electrolyte for aqueous redox flow batteries. The electrochemical properties of one chosen polymer are studied in detail by cyclic voltammetry and rotating disc electrode (RDE) investigations. Additionally, the diffusion coefficient and the charge transfer rate are obtained from these measurements. The diffusion coefficient from RDE is compared to the value from synthetic boundary experiments at battery concentrations, using an analytical ultracentrifuge, yielding diffusion coefficients of a similar order of magnitude. The polymer is further tested in a redox flow battery setup. While performing charge and discharge experiments against the well‐established bis‐(trimethylammoniumpropyl)‐viologen, the polymer reveals high columbic efficiencies of >99.8% and desirable apparent capacity retention, both at room temperature as well as at 60 °C. Further experiments are conducted to verify the stability of the active compounds under these conditions in both charge states. Lastly, the electrochemical behavior is linked to the characteristics of the polymers concerning absolute values of the molar mass and diffusion coefficients.
Pressure relief of nonideal mixtures: Composition trajectories and residue curve maps
Authors: Dillon Paul
Published: September 2020

During the course of a pressure relief discharge from a vessel containing a multicomponent liquid mixture, composition changes occur that affect the properties of the vessel contents. In this work, a model of the dynamic relief process for ternary, nonideal, homogeneous mixtures is developed, under the assumption of vapor‐only venting. Opening/reclosing of the relief valve introduces state‐events, which require reinitialization of the model at each state transition. The relationship between the pressure relief model and the concept of residue curves, which describe simple‐distillation processes, is demonstrated. It is known that the presence of azeotropes and distillation boundaries in mixtures restricts the composition trajectories of simple‐distillation processes, as well as continuous distillation columns at total reflux. In this work, the residue‐curve analogy is extended to vapor‐only pressure‐relief, where vapor composition changes directly affect the operation of the pressure‐relief device. Examples of dynamic relief processes are developed for ternary mixtures with varying nonideality.
Multisite supply planning for drug products under uncertainty
Authors: Sampat Apoorva M. , Kumar Ranjeet , Pushpangatha Kurup Remya , Chiu Kawa , Saucedo Victor M. , Zavala Victor M.
Published: September 2020

In the pharmaceutical industry, the goal of a supply planner is to make efficient capacity allocation decisions that ensure an uninterrupted supply of drug products to patients and to maintain product inventory levels close to the target stock. This task can be challenging due to the limited availability of manufacturing assets, uncertainties in product demand, fluctuations in production yields, and unplanned site downtimes. It is not uncommon to observe uneven distribution of product inventories with some products carrying excess inventories, while other products may be close to a stockout. Maintaining high stock levels can have economic repercussions due to the risk of expiration of unused products (whereas products facing a stockout can adversely affect the treatment regimen of patients). The network complexity of pharmaceutical supply‐chains coupled with regulatory constraints and siloed planning systems force supply planners to rely on manual (error‐prone) decision‐making processes. Such an approach results in suboptimal capacity allocation and inventory management decisions. In this work, we propose a stochastic optimization methodology for the production scheduling of multiple drug products in lyophilization units across multiple sites. The framework leverages information obtained from historical and forecast data to generate scenarios of uncertain parameters (e.g., yield, demand, and downtimes) that can realize in the future. The optimization model determines a product filling schedule that maintains product stock levels close to targets under diverse scenarios. We show that this approach helps in avoiding reactive scheduling and in maintaining a more robust production plan than deterministic procedures (which ignore uncertainty). Specifically, planning under a stochastic optimization approach reduces the number of scenarios under which backlogs are observed and also reduces the magnitude of the backlogs.
Treatment of acquired hemophilia A, a balancing act: results from a 27‐year Dutch cohort study
Authors: Schep Sarah J. , van Dijk Wobke E. M. , Beckers Erik A. M. , Meijer Karina , Coppens Michiel , Eikenboom Jeroen , Leebeek Frank W. G. , van Vulpen Lize F. D. , Fischer Kathelijn F. , Schutgens Roger E. G. ,   The Dutch Society of Haemophilia Treaters, The Netherlands
Published: September 2020

Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a severe auto‐immune bleeding disorder. Treatment of AHA is burdensome and optimal management is still unresolved. Therefore a retrospective nationwide multi‐center cohort study (1992‐2018) was performed to evaluate clinical presentation and treatment efficacy and safety of AHA in the Netherlands. Multivariate logistic and Cox regression analysis was used to study independent associations between patient characteristics and clinical outcomes. A total of 143 patients (median age 73 years; 52.4% male) were included with a median follow‐up of 16.8 months (IQR 3.6‐41.5 months). First‐line immunosuppressive treatment was mostly steroid monotherapy (67.6%), steroids/cyclophosphamide (11.9%) and steroids/rituximab (11.9%), with success rates of 35.2%, 80.0% and 66.7% respectively, P < .05. Eventually 75% of patients achieved complete remission (CR). A high anti‐FVIII antibody titer, severe bleeding and steroid monotherapy were associated with lower CR rates. Infections, the most important adverse event, occurred significantly more often with steroid combination therapy compared to steroids alone (38.7% vs 10.6%; P = .001). Overall mortality was 38.2%, mostly due to infections (19.2%) compared to 7.7% fatal bleeds. Advanced age, underlying malignancy and ICU admission were predictors for mortality. This study showed that AHA is characterized by significant disease‐related and treatment‐related morbidity and mortality. A high anti‐FVIII titer, severe bleeding and steroid monotherapy were associated with a lower CR rate. The efficacy of steroid combination therapies however, was overshadowed by higher infection rates and infections represented the most important cause of death. The challenging and delicate balance between treatment effectivity and safety requires ongoing monitoring of AHA and further identification of prognostic markers.
Extremity anomalies associated with Robinow syndrome
Authors: Abu‐Ghname Amjed , Trost Jeffrey , Davis Matthew J. , Sutton V. Reid , Zhang Chaofan , Guillen Diana E. , Carvalho Claudia M. B. , Maricevich Renata S.
Published: September 2020

Robinow syndrome, a rare genetic disorder, is characterized by skeletal dysplasia with, among other anomalies, extremity and hand anomalies. There is locus heterogeneity and both dominant and recessive inheritance. A detailed description of associated extremity and hand anomalies does not currently exist due to the rarity of this syndrome. This study seeks to document the hand anomalies present in Robinow syndrome to allow for improved rates of timely and accurate diagnosis. A focused assessment of the extremities and stature was performed using clinical examination and standard photographic images. A total of 13 patients with clinical and molecular diagnosis consistent with dominant Robinow syndrome or recessive Robinow syndrome were evaluated. All patients had limb shortening, the most common of which was mesomelia; however, rhizomelia and micromelia were also seen. These findings are relevant to clinical characterization, particularly as Robinow syndrome has classically been defined as a “mesomelic disorder.” A total of eight distinct hand anomalies were identified in 12 patients with both autosomal recessive and dominant forms of Robinow syndrome. One patient did not present with any hand differences. The most common hand findings included brachydactyly, broad thumbs, and clinodactyly. A thorough understanding of the breadth of Robinow syndrome‐associated extremity and hand anomalies can aid in early patient identification, improving rates of timely diagnosis and allowing for proactive management of sequelae.
NiFe2O4@SiO2@Cu3(BTC)2 nanocomposite as a magnetic metal–organic framework
Authors: Heydari Maryam , Gharagozlou Mehrnaz , Ghahari Mehdi , Naghibi Sanaz
Published: September 2020

A new magnetic metal–organic framework (MOF), namely, NiFe2O4@SiO2@Cu3(BTC)2, was synthesized via an in situ method using Fe(NO3)3, Ni(NO3)2, CuN2O6, TEOS, (3‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane, and benzene‐1,3,5‐tricarboxylic acid. Three different samples were fabricated according to a formula; xNiFe2O4@(100 − x)SiO2@Cu3(BTC)2, where x = 10, 30, and 50. The integration of the intrinsic characteristic of Cu3(BTC)2 as an MOF with strong magnetic properties of NiFe2O4 could lead to an exquisite material with specific behaviors. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), photoluminescence (PL), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and simulated thermal analyzer (STA) were utilized to characterize the mentioned samples. Results approved that the synthesized compounds were composed of SiO2 and Cu‐MOF and NiFe2O4 crystalline phases with rod‐like morphology. The similarity between the morphology of the synthesized samples and Cu‐MOF approved that an appropriate fabrication method has been selected. This fact led to observe mesoporous composites with 38–90 m2 g−1 specific surface area. PL spectroscopy confirmed the near bandgap emission, ligand‐to‐metal charge transfer, and metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer. Although all the samples had magnetic hysteresis, the highest magnetization was seen in the 50NiFe2O4@SiO2@Cu3(BTC)2 sample. This composite compound with a magnetization value of 2 emu g−1 at 8000 Oe and a specific surface area of 90 m2 g−1 could be classified as a magnetic MOF (MMOF). STA results suggested that 400°C is the highest operating temperature for this compound.
A new ternary Cu (II) complex with 4,7‐dimethyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline and NOO‐type tridentate Schiff base ligand: Synthesis, crystal structure, biomacromolecular interactions, and radical scavenging activities
Authors: İNCİ Duygu
Published: September 2020

NOO‐type tridentate Schiff base, N‐salicylidene‐2‐aminobenzoic acid, (H2L), and its ternary Cu (II) complex containing H2L Schiff base and 4,7‐dimethyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline (4,7‐dmphen), [Cu(4,7‐dmphen)(H2L)]27H2O, have been synthesized and characterized by CHN analysis, ESI‐MS, FTIR, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction techniques. The interaction of alone H2L Schiff base ligand and ternary Cu (II) complex with biomacramolecules {calf thymus DNA (CT‐DNA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA)} has been investigated by electronic absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy. The experimental results indicate that H2L Schiff base ligand and ternary Cu (II) complex bind to CT‐DNA by means of a moderate intercalation mode. Furthermore, the fluorescence quenching mechanism between H2L Schiff base ligand and ternary Cu (II) complex with BSA possesses a static quenching process. Radical scavenging activity of H2L Schiff base ligand and ternary Cu (II) complex was measured in terms of EC50, using the DPPH and H2O2 methods. Biomacromolecule interactions and scavenging activity studies revealed that ternary Cu (II) complex yielded better results than H2L Schiff base ligand alone.
Extrusion of polypropylene/chitosan/poly(lactic‐acid) films: Chemical, mechanical, and thermal properties
Authors: Quiroz‐Castillo Jesús M. , Rodríguez‐Félix Dora E. , Romero‐García Jorge , Madera‐Santana Tomás J. , Encinas‐Encinas José C. , Castillo‐Ortega María M. , Cabrera‐Germán Dagoberto , Lizárraga‐Laborín Lauren L.
Published: September 2020

Development of extruded films composed of biopolymers blended with synthetic polymers aims to minimize the environmental impact of plastic waste‐materials and lead to the sustainable plastic industry. To produce biodegradable polymeric blends, the weight content of biopolymers must be maximum without compromising the performance properties of the extruded films. Using a solvent‐free extrusion method, films composed of polypropylene, poly(lactic‐acid), and Chitosan, can be obtained with the use of polypropylene‐graft‐maleic anhydride and glycerol as compatibilizer and plasticizer, respectively. Extruded films with up to a 50 wt% content of biopolymers show acceptable thermal and mechanical properties, where the use of compatibilizer improves the processing characteristics and homogeneous distribution of chitosan throughout the films. Therefore, the extruded films can be considered as alternatives to conventional synthetic‐polymer films, due to their acceptable mechanical and thermal properties with direct potential applications in extrusion‐method mass production of biodegradable polymers.
Performance of biomimetic coating modified fiber incorporated styrene butadiene styrene modified asphalt
Authors: Li Jing , Su Zhibin , Huang Junxian , Feng Weijie , Wei Tingyang , Meng Kun , Muhammad Yaseen
Published: September 2020

This study reports the effect of polydopamine bionic coating and γ‐methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (KH570) composite modified polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fiber as a secondary modifier on the performance of styrene‐butadiene‐styrene (SBS) modified asphalt. Dynamic shear rheometer test indicated the complex shear modulu, storage modulus, and loss modulus of modified PAN (KD‐PAN) incorporated SBS modified asphalt was increased by 12.4, 20.5, and 11.2%, respectively compared with PAN/SBS modified asphalt. The master curve of G* of fiber/SBS composite modified asphalt shows that the deformation resistance of KD‐PAN/SBS modified asphalt is greater than that of PAN/SBS modified asphalt in the entire loading frequency range. The cone penetration test showed significantly enhanced shear strength of KD‐PAN/SBS modified asphalt. The adhesion work test results and SEM images of interface between fiber and SBS modified asphalt revealed that the adhesion effect of KD‐PAN and SBS modified asphalt is better than that of PAN and SBS modified asphalt. SEM and AFM images of fiber further showed that the fiber surface becomes rough after modification. The increased surface roughness of KD‐PAN facilitated the adherence of SBS modified asphalt to it, which in turn led to the enhanced performance of KD‐PAN/SBS composite modified asphalt at the same fiber content and temperature.
Further Insights on Structural Modifications of Muramyl Dipeptides to Study the Human NOD2 Stimulating Activity
Authors: Cheng Wei‐Chieh , You Ting‐Yun , Teo Zhen‐Zhuo , Sayyad Ashik A. , Maharana Jitendra , Guo Chih‐Wei , Liang Pi‐Hui , Lin Chung‐Shun , Meng Fan‐Chun
Published: September 2020

A series of muramyl dipeptide (MDP) analogues with structural modifications at the C4 position of MurNAc and on the d‐iso‐glutamine (isoGln) residue of the peptide part were synthesized. The C4‐diversification of MurNAc was conveniently achieved by using CuAAC click strategy to conjugate an azido muramyl dipeptide precursor with structurally diverse alkynes. d‐Glutamic acid (Glu), replaced with isoGln, was applied for the structural diversity through esterification or amidation of the carboxylic acid. In total, 26 MDP analogues were synthesized and bio‐evaluated for the study of human NOD2 stimulation activity in the innate immune response. Interestingly, MDP derivatives with an ester moiety are found to be more potent than reference compound MDP itself or MDP analogues containing an amide moiety. Among the varied lengths of the alkyl chain in ester derivatives, the MDP analogue bearing the d‐glutamate dodecyl (C12) ester moiety showed the best NOD2 stimulation potency.
Rapid and Selective Labeling of Endogenous Transmembrane Proteins in Living Cells with a Difluorophenyl Ester Affinity‐Based Probe
Authors: Chan Hsin‐Ju , Lin Xin‐Hui , Fan Syuan‐Yun , Ru Hwu Jih , Tan Kui‐Thong
Published: September 2020

The long‐term stability of affinity‐based protein labeling probes is crucial to obtain reproducible protein labeling results. However, highly stable probes generally suffer from low protein labeling efficiency and pose significant challenges when labeling low abundance native proteins in living cells. In this paper, we report that protein labeling probes based on an ortho‐difluorophenyl ester reactive module exhibit long‐term stability in DMSO stock solution and aqueous buffer, yet they can undergo rapid and selective labeling of native proteins. This novel electrophile can be customized with a wide range of different protein ligands and is particularly well‐suited for the labeling and imaging of transmembrane proteins. With this probe design, the identity and relative levels of basal and hypoxia‐induced transmembrane carbonic anhydrases were revealed by live cell imaging and in‐gel fluorescence analysis. We believe that the extension of this difluorophenyl ester reactive module would allow for the specific labeling of various endogenous membrane proteins, facilitating in‐depth studies of their distribution and functions in biological processes.
The synchronization of complex dynamical networks with discontinuous dynamics and exogenous disturbances
Authors: Feng Jianwen , Zhang Le , Wang Jingyi , Zhao Yi
Published: September 2020

This paper considers the synchronization of a class of delayed and nonlinearly coupled complex networks that are subject to discontinuous dynamics and exogenous disturbances. One distinguishing feature of this class of complex networks is the non‐continuous nature of their node dynamics so that the usual Lipschitz and other relative conditions are not satisfied and that the existence of continuously differentiable solutions is not guaranteed. Both nondelayed and delayed networks in this class are considered. Some sufficient criteria of synchronization are obtained under a new controller using the Lyapunov stability theory of nonsmooth dynamical systems. Two numerical simulations are given to illustrate our main theoretical findings.
Robust nonlinear model predictive control for automatic train operation based on constraint tightening strategy
Authors: Jia Chao , Xu Hongze , Wang Longsheng
Published: September 2020

This paper studies the problem of automatic train operation (ATO) robust nonlinear model predictive control under considering multiple objectives and constraints. After establishing a nonlinear multipoint model with uncertain bounded disturbance, a robust nonlinear model predictive control algorithm to meet the punctuality of train operation and energy consumption for ATO is proposed based on constraint tightening strategy. Moreover, theoretical analysis of the feasibility and stability for the speed loop system are presented. Then, with the objective of reference electromagnetic torque tracking and low switching frequency, a model predictive direct torque control algorithm with one‐step delay compensation is proposed. Feasibility of the proposed algorithm is ensured by using deadlock prediction method, and convergence analysis of the torque loop is given simultaneously. Lastly, the effectiveness of these two algorithms are verified by numerical simulation.
Digital Behavioral Phenotyping Detects Atypical Pattern of Facial Expression in Toddlers with Autism
Authors: Carpenter Kimberly L. H. , Hahemi Jordan , Campbell Kathleen , Lippmann Steven J. , Baker Jeffrey P. , Egger Helen L. , Espinosa Steven , Vermeer Saritha , Sapiro Guillermo , Dawson Geraldine
Published: September 2020

Commonly used screening tools for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) generally rely on subjective caregiver questionnaires. While behavioral observation is more objective, it is also expensive, time‐consuming, and requires significant expertise to perform. As such, there remains a critical need to develop feasible, scalable, and reliable tools that can characterize ASD risk behaviors. This study assessed the utility of a tablet‐based behavioral assessment for eliciting and detecting one type of risk behavior, namely, patterns of facial expression, in 104 toddlers (ASD N = 22) and evaluated whether such patterns differentiated toddlers with and without ASD. The assessment consisted of the child sitting on his/her caregiver's lap and watching brief movies shown on a smart tablet while the embedded camera recorded the child's facial expressions. Computer vision analysis (CVA) automatically detected and tracked facial landmarks, which were used to estimate head position and facial expressions (Positive, Neutral, All Other). Using CVA, specific points throughout the movies were identified that reliably differentiate between children with and without ASD based on their patterns of facial movement and expressions (area under the curves for individual movies ranging from 0.62 to 0.73). During these instances, children with ASD more frequently displayed Neutral expressions compared to children without ASD, who had more All Other expressions. The frequency of All Other expressions was driven by non‐ASD children more often displaying raised eyebrows and an open mouth, characteristic of engagement/interest. Preliminary results suggest computational coding of facial movements and expressions via a tablet‐based assessment can detect differences in affective expression, one of the early, core features of ASD.

Lay Summary

This study tested the use of a tablet in the behavioral assessment of young children with autism. Children watched a series of developmentally appropriate movies and their facial expressions were recorded using the camera embedded in the tablet. Results suggest that computational assessments of facial expressions may be useful in early detection of symptoms of autism.
Modeling water‐energy tradeoffs for cultivating algae for biofuels in a semi‐arid region with fresh and brackish water supplies
Authors: Mayer Alex , Tavakoli Hossein , Fessel Doan Ceily , Heidari Azad , Handler Robert
Published: September 2020

We analyze water‐energy tradeoffs for hypothetical algae production for biofuel feedstock in the US‐Mexico middle Rio Grande watershed with a coupled water, salinity, and algae biomass balance model. Suitable areas for algae cultivation in the region are selected and associated with fresh or brackish groundwater sources. We examine the potential of using two algae species with markedly different energy content and tolerance to salinities. Location‐specific water quality and time‐varying climate variables were important when analyzing water‐energy tradeoffs for each species. In this regional study, water demand rates for the salinity‐tolerant species were similar to rates for conventional local crops, whereas the salinity‐sensitive species’ values exceeded local demand rates. Optimizing the spatial selection of species resulted in water footprint reductions of as much as 18%. Water demand rates and footprints are highly sensitive to salinity and temperature tolerance and thus local variations in water quality and seasonal variations in climate. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Production, Processing, and Characterization of Synthetic AAV Gene Therapy Vectors
Authors: El Andari Jihad , Grimm Dirk
Published: September 2020

Over the last two decades, gene therapy vectors based on wild‐type Adeno‐associated viruses (AAV) are safe and efficacious in numerous clinical trials and are translated into three approved gene therapy products. Concomitantly, a large body of preclinical work has illustrated the power and potential of engineered synthetic AAV capsids that often excel in terms of an organ or cell specificity, the efficiency of in vitro or in vivo gene transfer, and/or reactivity with anti‐AAV immune responses. In turn, this has created a demand for new, scalable, easy‐to‐implement, and plug‐and‐play platform processes that are compatible with the rapidly increasing range of AAV capsid variants. Here, the focus is on recent advances in methodologies for downstream processing and characterization of natural or synthetic AAV vectors, comprising different chromatography techniques and thermostability measurements. To illustrate the breadth of this portfolio, two chimeric capsids are used as representative examples that are derived through forward‐ or backwards‐directed molecular evolution, namely, AAV‐DJ and Anc80. Collectively, this ever‐expanding arsenal of technologies promises to facilitate the development of the next AAV vector generation derived from synthetic capsids and to accelerate their manufacturing, and to thus boost the field of human gene therapy.
The Degree and Length of O‐Glycosylation of Recombinant Proteins Produced in Pichia pastoris Depends on the Nature of the Protein and the Process Type
Authors: Radoman Bojana , Grünwald‐Gruber Clemens , Schmelzer Bernhard , Zavec Domen , Gasser Brigitte , Altmann Friedrich , Mattanovich Diethard
Published: September 2020

The methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris is known as an efficient host for the production of heterologous proteins. While N‐linked protein glycosylation is well characterized in P. pastoris there is less knowledge of the patterns of O‐glycosylation. O‐glycans produced by P. pastoris consist of short linear mannose chains, which in the case of recombinant biopharmaceuticals can trigger an immune response in humans. This study aims to reveal the influence of different cultivation strategies on O‐mannosylation profiles in P. pastoris. Sixteen different model proteins, produced by different P. pastoris strains, are analyzed for their O‐glycosylation profile. Based on the obtained data, human serum albumin (HSA) is chosen to be produced in fast and slow growth fed batch fermentations by using common promoters, PGAP and PAOX1. After purification and protein digestion, glycopeptides are analyzed by LC/ESI‐MS. In the samples expressed with PGAP it is found that the degree of glycosylation is slightly higher when a slow growth rate is used, regardless of the efficiency of the producing strain. The highest glycosylation intensity is observed in HSA produced with PAOX1. The results indicate that the O‐glycosylation level is markedly higher when the protein is produced in a methanol‐based expression system.
Asperolide A prevents bone metastatic breast cancer via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/c‐Fos/NFATc1 signaling pathway
Authors: Jiang Wenli , Rixiati Youlutuziayi , Huang Hao , Shi YiJun , Huang Caiguo , Jiao Binghua
Published: September 2020

Background

Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women with malignant tumors worldwide. Bone metastasis is the main factor affecting the prognosis of breast cancer. Therefore, both antitumor and anti‐breast‐cancer‐induced osteolysis agents are urgently needed.

Methods

We examined the effect of Asperolide A (AA), a marine‐derived agent, on osteolysis and RANKL‐induced phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mTOR/c‐FOS/nuclear factor‐activated T cell 1 (NFATc1) pathway activation, F‐actin ring formation, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in vitro. We evaluated AA effect on breast cancer MDA‐MB‐231 and MDA‐MB‐436 cells in vitro through CCK8 assay, wound healing assay, transwell assay, Annexin V‐FITC/PI staining for cell apoptosis, and cell cycle assay. Furthermore, we assessed the effect of AA in vivo using a breast cancer‐induced bone osteolysis nude mouse model, followed by micro‐computed tomography, tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase staining, and hematoxylin and eosin staining.

Results

Asperolide A inhibited osteoclast formation and differentiation, bone resorption, F‐actin belt formation, ROS activity, and osteoclast‐specific gene and protein expressions and prevented PI3K/AKT/mTOR/c‐FOS/NFATc1 signaling activation in a dose‐dependent manner in vitro. AA also inhibited breast cancer growth and breast cancer‐induced bone osteolysis by reducing osteoclast formation and function and inactivated PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling in vivo.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that AA suppressed bone metastatic breast cancer. These findings indicate AA as a potential, novel curative drug candidate for patients with bone metastatic breast cancer.
Severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pneumonia patients treated successfully with a combination of lopinavir/ritonavir plus favipiravir: Case series
Authors: Koba Hayato , Yoneda Taro , Kaneda Tomoya , Ueda Tsukasa , Kimura Hideharu , Kasahara Kazuo
Published: September 2020

Key Clinical Message

The combination therapy of Lopinavir/Ritonavir plus Favipiravir might be a treatment option for patients with COVID‐19. Serum ferritin levels and lymphocytopenia are promising markers for disease severity and disease progression that are commonly available in general clinical practice.
International Counseling Doctoral Students' Teaching Preparation: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Li Dan , Liu Yanhong
Published: September 2020

We conducted a phenomenological study of teaching preparation with 11 international counseling doctoral students. We identified four primary themes: (a) international identity becomes salient in teaching, (b) acculturation occurs in teaching, (c) teaching is relational, and (d) support system is critical to teaching preparation. Multicultural implications for preparing international doctoral students as emerging counselor educators are provided.
Counselor Education Doctoral Students' Lived Experiences With Supervision of Teaching
Authors: Baltrinic Eric R. , Suddeath Eric
Published: September 2020

In this descriptive phenomenological study, we investigated 10 counselor education doctoral students' experiences with supervision of their teaching. Three supervision of teaching (SupT) structural themes were identified: delivery, dynamics, and distinctions. Implications for implementing SupT on the basis of these structures are discussed, along with the limitations of this study and suggestions for future research. A working definition of SupT is provided.
Das hohe Gut der Unabhängigkeit
Authors: Tetsch Larissa
Published: September 2020

Viele Tiere ernähren sich von pflanzlicher Biomasse. Dabei können sie diese eigentlich gar nicht verwerten, da ihnen die geeigneten Enzyme für den Abbau von Pflanzenzellwänden fehlen. Aus diesem Grund beherbergen Tiere in der Regel große Mengen an Darmmikroben, die die benötigten Enzyme beisteuern. Ein paar Käfergruppen ist es jedoch gelungen, von ihren Symbionten unabhängig zu werden.
Evaluation of a Platinum–Acridine Anticancer Agent and Its Liposomal Formulation in an in vivo Model of Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ding Song , Hackett Christopher L. , Liu Fang , Hackett Ryan G. , Bierbach Ulrich
Published: September 2020

Liposomal formulations have been developed for a highly cytotoxic platinum–acridine agent, [PtCl(pn)(C18H21N4)](NO3)2 (PA, pn=propane‐1,3‐diamine), and fully characterized. Nanoliposomes consisting of hydrogenated soybean phosphatidylcholine (HSPC), 1,2‐dihexadecanoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phospho‐(1'‐rac‐glycerol) (DPPG), and polyethylene glycol‐2000‐distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DSPE‐mPEG2k) were able to stably encapsulate PA at payload‐to‐lipid ratios of 2–20 %. The fusogenic properties of the liposomes promote efficient cellular uptake of PA across the plasma membrane, which results in vesicular transport of payload to the nucleus in cultured lung cancer cells. Unencapsulated PA and one of the newly designed liposomal formulations show promising tumor growth inhibition in tumor xenografts derived from A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells of 76 % and 72 %, respectively. Cisplatin showed no significant efficacy at a 10‐fold higher dose. These findings underscore the utility of platinum‐acridine agents for treating aggressive, chemoresistant forms of cancer and validate nanoliposomes as a biocompatible, expandable platform for their intravenous delivery and other potential routes of administration.
Everolimus plus bevacizumab is an effective first‐line treatment for patients with advanced papillary variant renal cell carcinoma: Final results from a phase II trial
Authors: Feldman Darren R. , Ged Yasser , Lee Chung‐Han , Knezevic Andrea , Molina Ana M. , Chen Ying‐Bei , Chaim Joshua , Coskey Devyn T. , Murray Samuel , Tickoo Satish K. , Reuter Victor E. , Patil Sujata , Xiao Han , Aghalar Jahan , Apollo Arlyn J. , Carlo Maria I. , Motzer Robert J. , Voss Martin H.
Published: September 2020

Background

We previously reported on a phase 2 study of everolimus plus bevacizumab across various nonclear cell renal cell carcinoma (nccRCC) histologies and observed encouraging activity among patients with papillary RCC (pRCC) and unclassified RCC (uRCC) with a major papillary component. We subsequently expanded the study to enroll additional patients with pRCC variants.

Methods

Everolimus plus bevacizumab was administered at standard doses until disease progression or intolerance to therapy. The primary endpoint was the 6‐month progression‐free survival (PFS) rate; secondary endpoints included objective response rate (ORR), progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety. Correlative analyses included next‐generation sequencing (NGS) from tumor and germline across >341 genes of interest.

Results

In addition to 19 patients with pRCC variants in the original cohort, 20 patients with similar features were enrolled on the expansion cohort (uRCC with papillary features [n = 24], pRCC [n = 14], and translocation‐associated RCC with papillary features [n = 1]). Among 37 evaluable patients, the 6‐month PFS rate was 78%, the median PFS was 13.7 months (95% CI, 10.8‐16.4 months), and the ORR was 35%. With a median follow‐up of 17.6 months, the median OS was 33.9 months (95% CI, 23.3‐71.9). Tolerance was consistent with prior reports for everolimus plus bevacizumab. NGS results (n = 33) identified responses in patients with a wide spectrum of genomic alterations, including ARID1A, FH, and MET mutations.

Conclusion

The expansion cohort results confirm robust activity of everolimus plus bevacizumab in metastatic pRCC variants, supporting this regimen as a standard option for this patient population.
Helquats as Promoters of the Povarov Reaction: Synthesis of 1,2,3,4‐Tetrahydroquinoline Scaffolds Catalyzed by Helicene‐Viologen Hybrids
Authors: Reyes‐Gutiérrez Paul E. , Amatov Tynchtyk T. , Švec Pavel , Císařová Ivana , Šaman David , Pohl Radek , Teplý Filip , Pospíšil Lubomír
Published: September 2020

Invited for this month's cover are the synthetic and physical chemistry groups of Paul E. Reyes‐Gutiérrez and Lubomír Pospíšil from the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, J. Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, and Charles University. The cover picture shows azoniahelicenes (helquats), which have been shown to function as organocatalysts in the Povarov reaction. Read the Full Paper at 10.1002/cplu.202000151.
Relationship between olfaction and maxillofacial morphology in children with malocclusion
Authors: Oka Shiori , Kawanabe Hitoshi , Yamanobe Shinya , Fukui Kazunori , Baba Yuh , Deguchi Toru
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Functional problems, including nasal flow problems, are associated with specific skeletal and dental features. Further, maxillary expansion has been associated with nasal airway resistance alterations. This study aimed to investigate whether there is a correlation between skeletal features and nasal airflow‐ and olfaction‐related problems.

Materials and methods

This prospective study included 68 patients (30 boys, 38 girls; mean age 9 ± 2 years) examined at the Ohu University Hospital. We classified patients into three skeletal Classes (Class I, II, and III) based on the ANB angle. Olfactory disorder history was collected from the guardians. Maxillofacial measurements, nasal airflow assessments, and olfactory tests were performed using cephalometric analysis, rhinomanometry, and T&T olfactometer, respectively.

Results

Malocclusion, resulting from skeletal mandibular protrusion and smaller maxilla, was associated with reduced olfaction in children. The detection and recognition thresholds of skeletal Class III were significantly higher than those of Classes I (p = .01) and II (p = .01). Significant correlations were observed between SNA and the detection threshold (r = −.50) as well as between nasion perpendicular‐point A and the recognition threshold (r = −.53). The detection and recognition thresholds were significantly higher in Class III than in Classes I (r = .3) and II (r = −.1).

Conclusions

Maxillary growth and development may be associated with olfaction in children. Changing the maxillofacial morphology may improve olfactory function. In the future, we will investigate how malocclusion treatment affects olfactory function.
The cytopathological spectrum of lymphomas in effusions in a tertiary center in Taiwan
Authors: Wang Ren Ching , Chen Yi‐Hsiao , Chen Bo‐Jung , Chuang Shih‐Sung
Published: September 2020

Background

Lymphomas presenting in effusions could either be primary or secondary, with very limited data from Taiwan.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed effusion lymphomas from our archives in a tertiary center from July 2011 to June 2019.

Results

We identified 59 specimens from 43 patients, including 7 cases with primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) and 36, secondary effusion involvement. Half of the secondary cases presented concurrently with effusion lymphoma, while the remaining half‐experienced effusion lymphoma during disease progression. All patients with PELs were males with a median age of 77 and presented with massive pleural effusion. None was HIV‐related. Two (29%) PEL cases were positive for human herpes virus 8 (HHV8). The only case with plasmablastic phenotype in the PEL group was positive for both HHV8 and EBV. Four patients died shortly after diagnosis; while the remaining three were alive at the last follow‐up (two at 13 months and one at 99 months). Of the secondary cases, diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma/high grade B‐cell lymphoma was the most common (n = 16, 44%), followed by mantle cell lymphoma (n = 5, 14%). Only 8 cases (22%) were T‐cell neoplasms. Prognosis for patients with secondary effusion involvement was dismal, with 1‐ and 2‐year overall survival rates at 17% and 8%, respectively.

Conclusion

We found a wide cytopathological spectrum of effusion lymphoma in Taiwan. Most of our PEL cases were distinct from that defined in the World Health Organization scheme by a B‐cell phenotype, HHV8‐negativity, and absence of immunodeficiency. As compared to PEL cases, the prognosis of those with secondary involvement was extremely poor.
Micron to nanometre‐scale pore characterisation of the early oil window Vaca Muerta Formation, Neuquén Basin, Argentina
Authors: Hernandez‐Bilbao Eider , Sarg J. Rick , Sonnenberg Stephen A.
Published: September 2020

This paper characterises the pore types and their distribution in the Vaca Muerta Formation, Neuquén Basin, Argentina. This formation is now being studied and targeted as reservoir rock, and it is therefore considered an unconventional resource play. There is significant need for a porosity description as part of the unconventional reservoir characterisation. Mineral compositions, grain assemblages, morphology, organic content and distribution, and micron to nanometre‐scale pore types are studied through scanning electron microscopy. Petrographic observations depict the complex response of pores to chemical and mechanical processes, where both destruction of primary porosity and generation of secondary pores are common. Compaction, cementation and infill of migrated organic matter destroy primary porosity whereas dissolution and secondary organic matter generated through maturation create secondary pores. Lamina sets with major detrital components can help identify intervals with higher interparticle and intraparticle porosity. Interparticle and intraparticle porosity are ubiquitous throughout the samples. Interparticle pores are common around rigid detrital grains, like quartz and feldspar, and within detrital clay platelets. Porosity within authigenic clay cements is included, as framework porosity and samples may contain up to a maximum of 30 wt% clay. Partial grain dissolution of coccoliths, feldspars and calcite grains resulted in available intraparticle pore space. Organopores are the least abundant pore types at this location. Organopores were described within migrated organic matter. Although the kerogen type (Type II) and the vitrinite reflectance are optimum for hydrocarbon generation (ca 0.80% Ro) in the Vaca Muerta Formation at the study area, development of organopores is not common. The Vaca Muerta Formation has experienced insufficient thermal maturation (early oil window) and has not yet reached peak oil.
The COMT rs4680 polymorphism, family functioning and preschoolers’ attentional control indexed by intraindividual reaction time variability
Authors: Zhang Yuewen , Yang Xiaohui , Wang Zhenhong
Published: September 2020

Trial‐to‐trial intraindividual reaction time variability (IIRTV) serves as an index of attentional control and related endogenous brain function. What determinants contribute to preschoolers’ attentional control indexed by IIRTV remains unknown. The present study examined how catechol‐o‐methyltransferase (COMT) rs4680 polymorphism interacted with family functioning (cohesion and adaptability) to impact on preschoolers’ attentional control indexed by IIRTV. One hundred forty‐four preschool children (Mage = 4.19,SD = 0.63) completed the flanker task to assess their IIRTV. Their parents were asked to fill out the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale II to assess family functioning. After controlling for age, socioeconomic status (SES) and mean reaction time, results showed that the COMT rs4680 polymorphism was positively associated with preschoolers’ IIRTV at the 5% significance level (p = .02) but not after multiple testing adjustment (p = .08). Moreover the COMT rs4680 polymorphism significantly interacted with family functioning to impact on preschoolers’ IIRTV and the interaction effects remained significant after correction for multiple testing (p = .01, ΔR2 = 0.06 in congruent conditions;p = .04, ΔR2 = 0.04 in combined conditions). In addition, the significant interaction between SES and COMT rs4680 polymorphism was also found in the present study (p = .01, ΔR2 = 0.05 in congruent conditions;p = .05, ΔR2 = 0.03 in combined conditions). No sex differences were found in the present sample. The findings of the present study expand our knowledge about the gene × environment underpinnings of children's attentional control and endogenous brain function, and provide evidence for the Vantage Sensitivity model on children's development.
ADA 2020: FreeStyle Libre system initiation provides dramatic drop in diabetic ketoacidosis rates
Authors: Idris Iskandar
Published: September 2020

A study presented at this year's American Diabetes Association's Virtual Conference showed a dramatic drop in ketoacidosis rates after FreeStyle Libre system initiation in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.