bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Etanercept in Nonradiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis by Stratified C‐Reactive Protein Levels
Authors: Tam Hoi Ki Joshua , Nash Peter , Robinson Philip C.
Published: August 2021

Objective

Biological agents have shown markedly different response rates by baseline C‐reactive protein (CRP). Here, we determine the response of patients with nonradiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr‐axSpA) to etanercept stratified by their baseline CRP level.

Methods

The EMBARK trial was a phase 3, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of etanercept in nr‐axSpA. The primary endpoint was Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS) 40 at Week 12, the conclusion of the double‐blind phase. It recruited patients who met the ASAS criteria for axial spondyloarthritis, and sacroiliac joint magnetic resonance scans were completed on all patients. In this post hoc analysis, we analyzed outcomes by baseline C‐reactive protein (CRP) level of less than 5 mg/L, 5 mg/L to 10 mg/L, and greater than 10 mg/L. The clinical trial outcome data were accessed via the Vivli platform.

Results

In the less than 5 mg/L CRP group treated with etanercept, the ASAS20 response, ASAS40 response, Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score‐CRP (ASDAS‐CRP), and ASDAS‐ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) outcomes were 49% (P = 0.84), 26% (P = 0.14), 42% (P = 0.002), and 44% (P = 0.006), respectively. In the 5 to 10 mg/L CRP group treated with etanercept, the ASAS20 response, ASAS40 response, ASDAS‐CRP, and ASDAS‐ESR outcomes were 56% (P = 0.99), 31% (P = 0.40), 56% (P = 0.16), and 50% (P = 0.11), respectively. In the greater than10 mg/L CRP group treated with etanercept, the ASAS20 response, ASAS40 response, ASDAS‐CRP, and ASDAS‐ESR outcomes were 74% (P = 0.02), 68% (P = 0.003), 82% (P = 0.005), and 50% (P = 0.001), respectively.

Conclusion

Although there are reduced ASAS20 and ASAS40 response rates in the groups with baseline CRP less than 10 mg/L, there remain clinically relevant responses when the composite outcome measures ASDAS‐CRP or ASDAS‐ESR were used, and this should be considered when deciding on thresholds for reimbursement.
Adaptive fuzzy finite‐time decentralized control for large‐scale stochastic nonlinear systems
Authors: Wang Libin , Wang Huanqing , Liu Peter X.
Published: August 2021

An adaptive finite‐time decentralized control algorithm for a class of large‐scale stochastic nonlinear systems is presented. The fuzzy logic system is used to estimate uncertain nonlinearities. One advantage of the developed scheme is that each subsystem only needs to update one adaptive parameter, which alleviates the burden of online estimation. The dynamic surface control method is employed to reduce the “complexity explosion” caused by the repetitive derivation of the intermediate variable function in the backstepping control scheme. A new decentralized controller is designed so that all signals of the controlled system are bounded and the tracking error converges to a small residual set around the origin within a finite time. The simulation results of a numerical example illustrate the effectiveness of the method.
Constructing Co(OH)F Nanorods@NiCo‐LDH Nanocages Derived from ZIF‐67 for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: He Yezeng , Zhang Xiaolong , Wang Jiemei , Sui Yanwei , Qi Jiqiu , Chen Zheng , Zhang Ping , Chen Changjiu , Liu Wei
Published: August 2021

Nanostructured multicomponent hydroxide has recently drawn wide attention as positive material for high‐performance supercapacitors. Herein, a multi‐dimensional Co(OH)F@NiCo‐LDH (LDH = layered double hydroxide) composite with layered nanocages has uniformly grown on nickel foam (NF) by a solvent‐assisted process, which involves the in situ growth of ZIF‐67 on the surface of Co(OH)F nanorods, followed by chemical etching of the hybrids. Benefiting from its subtle structural design, the Co(OH)F@NiCo‐LDH exhibits high specific capacitance of 4070 mC cm−2 at 1 mA cm−2 (1313.3 C g−1 at 1 A g−1), desirable rate performance (3104 mC cm−2 at 20 mA cm−2), and outstanding cycling stability (92.7% retention after 7000 cycles). Moreover, a two‐electrode system assembled by Co(OH)F@NiCo‐LDH and reduced graphene oxide exhibits a peak energy density of 49.34 Wh kg−1 at the corresponding power density of 865 W kg−1. These results demonstrate that the Co(OH)F@NiCo‐LDH is an advanced positive material for the electrochemical device.
Dosage‐Dependent Antimicrobial Activity of DNA‐Histone Microwebs Against Staphylococcus Aureus
Authors: Yang Ting , Yang Shi , Ahmed Tasdiq , Nguyen Katherine , Yu Jinlong , Cao Xuejun , Zan Rui , Zhang Xiaonong , Shen Hao , Fay Meredith E. , Williams Evelyn Kendall , Lam Wilbur A. , VanEpps Jeremy Scott , Takayama Shuichi , Song Yang
Published: August 2021

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are antimicrobial cobweb‐structured materials produced by immune cells for clearance of pathogens in the body, but are paradoxically associated with biofilm formation and exacerbated lung infections. To provide a better materials perspective on the pleiotropic roles played by NETs at diverse compositions/concentrations, a NETs‐like material (called “microwebs”, abbreviated as μwebs) is synthesized for decoding the antimicrobial activity of NETs against Staphylococcus aureus in infection‐relevant conditions. It is shown that μwebs composed of low‐to‐intermediate concentrations of DNA‐histone complexes successfully trap and inhibit S. aureus growth and biofilm formation. However, with growing concentrations and histone proportions, the resulting microwebs appear gel‐like structures accompanied by reduced antimicrobial activity that can even promote the formation of S. aureus biofilms. The simplified model of NETs provides materials‐based evidence on NETs‐relevant pathology in the development of biofilms.
Contributions of women at the intersection of agricultural economics and environmental and natural resource economics
Authors: Segerson Kathleen , Kling Catherine L. , Bockstael Nancy E.
Published: August 2021

This paper discusses contributions that women at the intersection of agricultural economics and environmental and resource economics have made over the past several decades to their profession, through both research and leadership. We highlight research contributions in the following areas: land use and conservation, non‐market valuation, environmental policy design, and climate and energy economics. Key examples of leadership within the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association and the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists are also discussed. We conclude with some brief personal reflections regarding our experience working at this interface.
How women in agricultural economics expanded the profession's role in food safety and nutrition
Authors: Unnevehr Laurian , Caswell Julie , Kinsey Jean
Published: August 2021

Increased policy interest in food safety and nutrition issues in the 1980s and 1990s was coincident with the growth in women's participation in agricultural economics. In pursuing these new research challenges, women expanded the scope, impact, and gender participation of agricultural economics. In addition to pursuing cutting‐edge research, women provided leadership in building institutions to support this sub‐field. Four institutions—the NE‐165 Regional Research Project, The Food Industry Center at University of Minnesota, the Food Economics Division at USDA/ERS, and the Food Safety and Nutrition Section of the AAEA—owe much of their contributions to women's leadership.
Remittances and agricultural productivity in Burkina Faso
Authors: Dedewanou Finagnon Antoine , Kpekou Tossou Rolande C. B.
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we examine the interplay between remittances and agricultural productivity in Burkina Faso. We estimate a Bayesian instrumental variables model using data from the 2014 Living Standards Measurement Study. We consider three measures of agricultural productivity: total production, total production per unit of land, and total production per unit of labor. Whatever the measure used, our results reveal a significant and negative association between remittances and agricultural productivity. We show that this effect is robust with respect to misspecification of the production function.
Postoperative haemoglobin estimation in elderly hip fractures
Authors: Fazal Muhammad Ali , Shah Anand , Mohamed Foad Y. , Hassan Raza
Published: August 2021

Objective

The purpose of our study was to analyze the effect of postoperative hemoglobin check on the day of surgery and 1 day postoperatively in elderly hip fracture patients with an aim to determine an optimum timing of postoperative hemoglobin check.

Material and methods

A retrospective study of 253 patients. Age, Charlson morbidity index, fracture type, time from admission to surgery, type of surgery, preoperative hemoglobin, postoperative hemoglobin, hemoglobin drop, day of postoperative hemoglobin measurement, blood transfusion, length of hospital stay, and 30‐day mortality were recorded.

Results

One hundred and sixty‐three patients (Group I) had postoperative hemoglobin check on the first postoperative day and 90 patients (Group II) on the day of surgery. Mean age in Group I was 82 years and 80 years in Group II. Mean Charlson morbidity index for Group I was 5.9 and Group II was 5.7. There was a significantly higher hemoglobin drop in Group I (P < 0.05) but no difference in blood transfusion requirement, length of stay, or 30‐day mortality in the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that postoperative hemoglobin measurement on the day of surgery is not a true reflection of hemoglobin drop and recommend estimation of hemoglobin on the first postoperative day.
Sexual dimorphism in the dioecious willow Salix purpurea
Authors: Gouker Fred E. , Carlson Craig H. , Zou Junzhu , Evans Luke , Crowell Chase R. , Smart Christine D. , DiFazio Stephen P. , Smart Lawrence B.
Published: August 2021

Premise

The evolution of sex chromosomes is driven by sexual dimorphism, yet it can be challenging to document sexually dimorphic traits in dioecious plant species. At the genetic level, sexual dimorphism can be identified through sequence variation between females and males associated with sexually antagonistic traits and different fitness optima. This study aims to examine sexual dimorphism for 26 traits in three populations of Salix purpurea (a diversity panel and F1 and F2 populations) and determine the effect of the traits on biomass yield, a key trait in Salix bioenergy crops across multiple years, locations, and under manipulated growth conditions.

Methods

Sexual dimorphism was evaluated for morphological, phenological, physiological, and wood composition traits in a diversity panel of unrelated S. purpurea accessions and in full‐sib F1 and F2 families produced through controlled cross pollinations and grown in replicated field trials.

Results

We observed sexual dimorphism in the timing of development for several traits that were highly predictive of biomass yield across three populations of S. purpurea. Across all populations and years surveyed, males had significantly shallower branching angle. Male plants highly predictive of biomass yield across three populations of S. purpurea also accumulated more nitrogen under fertilizer amendment as measured by SPAD in the diversity panel and had greater susceptibility to the rust fungus Melampsora americana in the F2 family. Allometric modelling of biomass yield showed an effect of sex and of location on the interaction between yield and stem height.

Conclusions

These results provide evidence of sexual dimorphism for certain traits in S. purpurea that may be involved in sex chromosome evolution.
Kraft black liquor concentration with graphene oxide membranes: Process simulations and technoeconomic analysis
Authors: Wang Zhongzhen , Ma Chen , Shen Alice , Berchenko Amiel , Sinquefield Scott A. , Nair Sankar
Published: August 2021

Black liquor (BL) dewatering by multi‐effect evaporation in the kraft papermaking process is highly energy‐intensive. It was previously shown that graphene oxide (GO) nanofiltration membranes can remove lignin, other organics, and inorganic salts from BL while exhibiting stability in caustic BL conditions. Here, we design and simulate several candidate dewatering processes and evaluate their technoeconomic characteristics. All processes concentrate BL from 15 to 30 wt% solutes while producing aqueous permeate. Two process options were analyzed—option A including “last‐mile” permeate treatment to reduce solutes to 0.2 wt%, and option B excluding this treatment and producing a 3–4 wt% solutes stream. These processes were simulated in custom‐built ASPEN Plus flowsheets interfaced with Microsoft Excel and MATLAB. All processes deliver large (>40%) energy savings. Detailed technoeconomic analysis showed that option A processes are profitable in mills equipped with condensing turbines, but unprofitable with only purchased fuel savings. Option B processes are profitable in both situations, but require the caustic permeate to be utilized in other kraft process units. They are also profitable with electricity generation when operated at smaller scales matching the requirements of other process units. Monte‐Carlo sensitivity analysis shows that Option A can yield median 20‐year NPVs up to ~$10MM and Option B up to ~$25MM. Overall, GO membrane‐based BL dewatering is economically promising, assuming successful slipstream piloting and scale‐up campaigns. It would have immediate sustainability benefits from large energy savings, and broader implications for biorefinery processes due to the ability to fractionate biomass feedstock components under harsh conditions.
Rationale Auswahl von Cyaninen zur Erzeugung von konjugierter Säure und freien Radikalen für die Photopolymerisation durch Belichtung bei 860 nm
Authors: Wang Qunying , Popov Sergey , Feilen Alfred , Strehmel Veronika , Strehmel Bernd
Published: August 2021

Cyanine mit einer Absorption zwischen 750–930 nm wurden verwendet, um die Effizienz der radikalischen wie auch der kationischen Photopolymerisation in Kombination mit einem Diaryliodoniumsalz zu untersuchen. Die Variation der verbindenden Methinkette und der Indolium‐Endgruppe gab einen tieferen Einblick in den Zusammenhang zwischen der Struktur des Cyanin‐NIR‐Sensibilisators und der Effizienz, initiierende Radikale und konjugierte Säure zu erzeugen. Photophysikalische Studien mittels Fluoreszenzspektroskopie ermöglichen ein tieferes Verständnis der Lebensdauer des angeregten Zustands und des Beitrags der strahlungslosen Desaktivierung, die zur Erzeugung zusätzlicher Wärme im Polymerisationsprozess führt. Darüber hinaus zeigen elektrochemische Experimente einen Zusammenhang zur Oxidations‐ und Reduktionsfähigkeit, was durch das Strukturmuster des Sensibilisators (Sens) beeinflusst wird. LC‐MS‐Messungen lieferten ein deutlicheres Bild der gebildeten Photoprodukte. Ein Cyanin mit einer Nonamethin‐Kette zeigte die beste Leistung bezüglich des Ausbleichens in Kombination mit einem Iodoniumsalz bei 860‐nm‐Bestrahlung.
Photoinduced Copper‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Three‐Component Coupling of 1,3‐Dienes: An Alternative to Kharasch–Sosnovsky Reaction
Authors: Wang Peng‐Zi , Wu Xue , Cheng Ying , Jiang Min , Xiao Wen‐Jing , Chen Jia‐Rong
Published: August 2021

Kharasch–Sosnovsky reaction is one of the most powerful methods for allylic oxidation of alkenes. However, the inherent radical mechanism and use of peroxides as both oxidants and oxygen nucleophiles render dearth of universal catalytic systems for highly enantioselective variants and limited scope. Herein, an alternative to the asymmetric Kharasch–Sosnovsky reaction that utilized a chiral copper catalyst and purple‐LED irradiation to enable the three‐component coupling of 1,3‐dienes, oxime esters, and carboxylic acids is reported. This protocol features mild conditions, remarkable scope and functional group tolerance as evidenced by >80 examples and utility in the late‐stage modification of pharmaceuticals and natural products. Detailed mechanistic studies provide evidences for the radical‐based reaction pathway.
Metal‐to‐Ligand Ratio‐Dependent Chemodivergent Asymmetric Synthesis
Authors: Zheng Min , Gao Ke , Qin Haitao , Li Guigen , Lu Hongjian
Published: August 2021

Chemodivergent asymmetric synthesis was achieved by tuning the metal‐to‐ligand ratio in an organometallic catalytic system. Using N‐(aroyloxy)phthalimide as the precursor of either an oxygen‐centered aroyloxy radical or a nitrogen‐centered phthalimidyl radical, enantioselective oxocyanation or aminocyanation of alkenes was achieved separately through a dual photoredox and copper catalysis. The metal‐to‐ligand ratio can exert chemoselective control while retaining the high enantiopurity of divergent products. Both reactions proceed efficiently with catalyst loading as low as 0.2 mol % and can be performed on a gram scale without loss of chemoselectivity or enantioselectivity. Chemodivergent asymmetric 1,5‐aminocyanation or 1,5‐oxocyanation of vinylcyclopropane can also be realized by this protocol. Mechanistic investigations involving electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) experiments were performed to shed light on the stereochemical and chemodivergent results.
Simultaneously Enhanced Reverse Intersystem Crossing and Radiative Decay in Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorophors with Multiple Through‐space Charge Transfers
Authors: Huang Tianyu , Wang Qi , Xiao Shu , Zhang Dongdong , Zhang Yuewei , Yin Chen , Yang Dezhi , Ma Dongge , Wang Zhaohui , Duan Lian
Published: August 2021

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials with through‐space charge transfers (CT) have attracted particularly interest recently. However, the slow reverse intersystem crossing (RISC) and radiative decay always limit their electroluminescence performances. Herein, TADF molecules with ortho‐linked multiple donors‐acceptor (ortho‐Dn‐A) motif are developed to create near‐degenerate excited states for the reinforcement of spin‐orbit coupling. The incorporation of both through‐bond and through‐space CT enlarges oscillator strength. The optimal ortho‐D3‐A compound exhibits a photoluminescence quantum yield of ca. 100 %, a high RISC rate of 2.57×106 s−1 and a high radiative decay rate of 1.00×107 s−1 simultaneously. With this compound as the sensitizer, a TADF‐sensitized‐fluorescent organic light‐emitting diode shows a maximum external quantum efficiency of 31.6 % with an ultrapure green Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage y coordinate value of 0.69.
Wide‐Range Color Tuning of Narrowband Emission in Multi‐resonance Organoboron Delayed Fluorescence Materials through Rational Imine/Amine Functionalization
Authors: Yang Minlang , Shikita So , Min Hyukgi , Park In Seob , Shibata Hiromoto , Amanokura Natsuki , Yasuda Takuma
Published: August 2021

Establishing a simple and versatile design strategy to finely modulate emission colors while retaining high luminescence efficiency and color purity remains an appealing yet challenging task for the development of multi‐resonance‐induced thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR‐TADF) materials. Herein, we demonstrate that the strategic introduction of electron‐withdrawing imine and electron‐donating amine moieties into a versatile boron‐embedded 1,3‐bis(carbazol‐9‐yl)benzene skeleton enables systematic hypsochromic and bathochromic shifts of narrowband emissions, respectively. By this method, effective electroluminescence color tuning was accomplished over a wide visible range from deep‐blue to yellow (461–571 nm), using the same MR molecular system, without compromising very narrow spectral features. Deep‐blue to yellow organic light‐emitting diodes with maximum external quantum efficiencies as high as 19.0–29.2 % and superb color purity could be produced with this family of color‐tunable MR‐TADF emitters.
What Does it Mean to Work ‘Dialogically’ in Open Dialogue and Family Therapy? A Narrative Review
Authors: Ong Ben , Buus Niels
Published: August 2021

The Open Dialogue approach has gained increasing international interest outside of its origins in Finland. However, the central principle of promoting dialogue can be a difficult concept to teach and apply. In addition, there is a wide range of authors and articles about Open Dialogue and dialogical approaches creating a potentially overwhelming number of sources for clinicians to consider. In this narrative review, we describe and synthesise the wide range of writings on how dialogue may be promoted in family therapy. This article covers the various uses of the term ‘dialogue,’ the dialogical mindset of the therapist, recommendations on how to respond to clients during meetings, the involvement of the therapist’s ‘self’ in meetings, and the use of reflecting teams. We present a concise list of recommendations to aid clinicians and to promote further discussion about dialogical practices.
Optical fiber multiparameter sensor for real‐time monitoring of thermoplastic composites during in situ consolidation process
Authors: Zhan Yage , Wang Ziting , Lu Aijiang , Lin Fan , Song Zhongkang , Sun Zeyu
Published: August 2021

Temperature and strain are important parameters in the in situ consolidation process of thermoplastic composites and have been monitored based on optical fiber Bragg gratings. A special polyimide fiber grating (PFBG) is used in this article. PFBG can monitor temperatures up to 400°C and strains up to 40,000 με. The wavelengths of the PFBGs are obtained by wavelength demodulation system and fast digital signal processing with field programmable gate array. Temperature and strain in auto fiber placement process of thermoplastic composites are monitored accurately according to wavelengths. During the whole consolidation process, temperatures have been monitored with the accuracy of 0.1°C in the range of 100–250°C and strains have been monitored with the accuracy of 1 με in the range of −250 to 500 με. The validity and correctness of the results have been validated by the thermocouple and the strain gauge.
Improving gas barrier properties of sugarcane‐based LLDPE with cellulose nanocrystals
Authors: Natarajan Madhumitha , Sabo Ronald C. , Stark Nicole M. , Matuana Laurent M.
Published: August 2021

This study was aimed at improving the gas barrier property of sugarcane based LLDPE using cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). Specifically, this study evaluated the effect of CNC content on the crystallinity, tortuosity factor, carbon dioxide permeability (PCO2), and/or oxygen permeability (PO2) of bio‐LLDPE sheets and films. All nanocomposites showed considerable improvement in gas barrier irrespective of the CNC content. The PCO2 coefficient of LLDPE sheets decreased by 36% by adding 10 wt% of CNCs into the sheet. Similarly, a significant decline in both PO2 (about 50%) and PCO2 (about 33%) coefficients of LLDPE films was obtained by adding 2.5 wt% of CNCs into the films. Nevertheless, no correlation was established between gas permeability and percent crystallinity of LLDPE sheet since the PCO2 coefficient decreased almost linearly with increasing CNC content whereas the percent crystallinity of LLDPE increased only up to 2.5% CNC content and remained constant thereafter. In contrast, the tortuosity factors calculated from the gas diffusion coefficients increased almost linearly with CNC contents and correlated well with the gas permeability improvement in bio‐LLDPE‐based nanocomposites. Consequently, the enhanced gas barrier in the nanocomposite was assigned to the tortuosity effect created by the impermeable CNCs rather than the changes in percent crystallinity.
Iterative learning heterogeneous trajectory tracking for partially interdependent networks
Authors: Guo Tianjiao , Tu Lilan , Chai Lang , Su Qingqing
Published: August 2021

Trajectory tracking is a hot topic in the field of complex systems. In this paper, based on the Lyapunov stability theory, combined with the adaptive iterative learning control method, the heterogeneous trajectory tracking of partially interdependent networks is investigated in a given finite time interval. The considered network consists of two subnets, where only the firstmnodes are intercoupled. Firstly, some suitable iterative learning controllers, as well as the adaptive laws and the coupling strength learning laws, are designed for each node. Secondly, the boundedness and the convergence of the signals are proved using the proposed control strategy. Finally, some simulations are presented to illustrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the theoretical results presented in this paper. Generally, the accuracy trajectory tracking is found almost proportional to the number of iterations. When the number of iterations is fixed, with the increasing number of nodes having interdependence, the time required to track target accurately is reduced.
Direct tuning method of gain‐scheduled controllers with the sparse polynomials function
Authors: Yahagi Shuichi , Kajiwara Itsuro
Published: August 2021

In industry, gain‐scheduled proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) control is performed for nonlinear systems using a look‐up table (LUT) that is easy to understand. Compared with the fixed PID, there are many more parameters of the scheduler, and it takes a lot of time to tune them. Also, the ROM storage area increases. To address these problems, in this paper, we propose a gain‐scheduled control law using the sparse polynomial functions and a direct parameter tuning method without system identification. The polynomial functions are used instead of LUT to reduce the ROM area. For direct tuning, data‐driven control is formulated so that it can be applied to the gain‐scheduled control, and the optimal parameters are obtained by the LASSO regression, with which the small contributing parameters of the scheduler become zero, and a sparse controller is obtained. The effectiveness of this method was examined by simulation for two types of nonlinear systems. As a result, it was revealed that a sparse controller with a low calculation cost and a reduced ROM area can be directly obtained without knowing the characteristics of the controlled object for a large number of control parameters of the gain scheduler.
Drohnengestützte 3‐D‐Vermessung als Planungs‐grundlage einer Hochspannungsfreileitung
Authors: Krueger Tim , Röhm Jochen
Published: August 2021

Die DB Energie GmbH betreibt in Deutschland mit ca. 7700 km Gesamtlänge das Hochspannungs‐Bahnstromnetz und gewährleistet dadurch die sichere Energieversorgung der elektrifizierten Streckenabschnitte im deutschen Schienennetz. Im Auftrag der DB Energie und als Spezialist für Planungsleistungen von Hoch‐ und Höchstspannungsfreileitungen übernimmt das Technikzentrum der Omexom Hochspannung GmbH die technische und genehmigungsrechtliche Planung im Projekt „Unterwerk (Umspannwerk) Rethen“ und nutzt zur Schaffung der erforderlichen Planungsgrundlagen die Möglichkeit der drohnengestützten 3‐D‐Datenerhebung. Das südlich von Hannover gelegene Unterwerk Rethen dient für mehrere Bahnstromleitungen als Start‐ bzw. Endpunkt und soll umgebaut werden. Dies macht eine Neuplanung der Leitungsansprünge erforderlich. Eine besondere Herausforderung stellen div. Betretungsverbote privater Wegeflurstücke sowie die Beeinflussung der sensiblen Drohnentechnologie durch elektromagnetische Felder dar. Im Rahmen mehrerer Messflüge wurden mithilfe eines speziell für diesen Einsatz konfigurierten Systems insgesamt 1000 hoch aufgelöste Einzelfotos aufgenommen und mittels fotogrammetrischer Auswerteverfahren zu einer 3‐D‐Punktwolke mit ca. 90 Mio. Messpunkten aufbereitet. Zur Validierung der Messgenauigkeit fand an einzelnen Standorten eine terrestrische Verifizierungsmessung statt.
Low endotoxin recovery and its impact on endotoxin detection
Authors: Cao Yuan , Zhang Yujie , Qiu Frank
Published: August 2021

Endotoxin exists on the outer membrane of Gram‐negative bacteria and poses risks to human health by triggering a series of immune responses. Therefore, its accurate detection is essential. The Limulus amoebocyte lysate (LAL) test is the most pharmacopeia‐recognized and popular technique for endotoxin detection. Despite its wide industry adoption, the low endotoxin recovery (LER) phenomenon can compromise the LAL test's reliability. This review summarizes the possible reasons attributing to the LER phenomenon from three different perspectives: the endotoxin standards used in hold time study, protein active pharmaceutical ingredients, and excipients. Potential mechanisms and strategies to mitigate the LER phenomenon are also discussed as presented by different research groups.
Rational design of a highly efficient catalytic system for the production of PAPS from ATP and its application in the synthesis of chondroitin sulfate
Authors: Liu Kaifang , Chen Xiulai , Zhong Yunlu , Gao Cong , Hu Guipeng , Liu Jia , Guo Liang , Song Wei , Liu Liming
Published: August 2021

The compound 3′‐phosphoadenosine‐5′‐phosphosulfate (PAPS) serves as a sulfate group donor in the production of valuable sulfated compounds. However, elevated costs and low conversion efficiency limit the industrial applicability of PAPS. Here, we designed and constructed an efficient and controllable catalytic system for the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) (disodium salt) into PAPS without inhibition from by‐products. In vitro and in vivo testing in Escherichia coli identified adenosine‐5′‐phosphosulfate kinase from Penicillium chrysogenum (PcAPSK) as the rate‐limiting enzyme. Based on analysis of the catalytic steps and molecular dynamics simulations, a mechanism‐guided “ADP expulsion” strategy was developed to generate an improved PcAPSK variant (L7), with a specific activity of 48.94 U·mg−1 and 73.27‐fold higher catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) that of the wild‐type enzyme. The improvement was attained chiefly by reducing the ADP‐binding affinity of PcAPSK, as well as by changing the enzyme's flexibility and lid structure to a more open conformation. By introducing PcAPSK L7 in an in vivo catalytic system, 73.59 mM (37.32 g·L−1) PAPS was produced from 150 mM ATP in 18.5 h using a 3‐L bioreactor, and achieved titer is the highest reported to date and corresponds to a 98.13% conversion rate. Then, the PAPS catalytic system was combined with the chondroitin 4‐sulfotransferase using a one‐pot method. Finally, chondroitin sulfate was transformed from chondroitin at a conversion rate of 98.75%. This strategy has great potential for scale biosynthesis of PAPS and chondroitin sulfate.
Innovative, integrative, and interactive in‐class activity on metabolic regulation: Evaluating educational impacts
Authors: Marques Fernanda , Pinto Luísa , Azevedo Maria Manuel , Sampaio‐Marques Belém , Areias Anabela C. , Salgueira Ana , Costa Manuel Joao , Rodrigues Fernando , Ludovico Paula
Published: August 2021

Medical students tend to have difficulties in developing a holistic view of metabolic pathway and hormone regulation. To address this issue, an interactive activity was implemented for first‐year medical students at the School of Medicine, University of Minho, Portugal. Students' previous knowledge on metabolic pathways was evaluated by a pre‐test followed by an interactive activity. In the supervised activity, students were challenged to elaborate a diagrammatic representation regarding enzymes, co‐factors, and hormonal metabolic regulation in early fasting during the night, as well as in well‐fed conditions. The activity was concluded with a post‐test to determine the students' learning gains and a few days later students were evaluated by a final exam. Afterwards, students evaluated the activity by filling a questionnaire. Results from four different cohorts showed that the activity resulted in significant learning gains, particularly favoring students who have less prior knowledge. The comparison between the pre‐test and the final exam also revealed significant learning gains for low achievers students. On the questionnaires, the majority of the students rated the activity as good or very good. Students agreed that this activity promotes: (a) reactivation of previous knowledge; (b) a better understanding of the interconnections between the metabolic pathways; (c) the application of learned concepts in real scenarios; and (d) sharing knowledge with peers. This study describes an active, unpretentious, and easily implemented activity available for early medical and biochemical curricula.
Impact of portal hypertension on short‐ and long‐term outcomes after liver resection for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Fu Jun , Chen Qinjunjie , Yu Yuyan , You Wuyi , Ding Zongren , Gao Yuzhen , Li Haitao , Zeng Yongyi
Published: August 2021

Objective

We explored the impact of clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) on short‐ and long‐term outcomes of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) after liver resection (LR).

Methods

Data of 352 ICC patients with cirrhosis who underwent LR were extracted from the Primary Liver Cancer Big Data (PLCBD) between 2005 and 2015 and reviewed. A nomogram based on logistic analyses was developed to illustrate the influencing factors of post‐hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF). The impact of CSPH on long‐term survival was explored through propensity score matching (PSM) analysis, log‐rank test, Cox proportional hazards model, and Kaplan–Meier curves.

Results

A total of 106 patients had CSPH, and 246 patients did not. A nomogram established based on GGT level, CSPH, intraoperative blood loss, and multiple tumors had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.721 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.630–0.812), which displayed a better PHLF predictive value than the MELD score (0.639, 95% CI = 0.532–0.747) and Child–Pugh score (0.612, 95% CI = 0.506–0.719). Moreover, the patients with CSPH had worse overall survival (OS) rates than the patients without CSPH in the whole cohort (p = 0.011) and PSM cohort (p = 0.017). After PSM, multivariable Cox analyses identified that CSPH was an independent risk factor for OS (hazard ratio = 1.585, 95% CI = 1.107–2.269; p = 0.012).

Conclusion

CSPH is a significant risk factor for PHLF and OS in ICC patients with cirrhosis after surgery. Selecting the proper patients before operation can effectively avoid PHLF and improve the prognosis of ICC.
Kinetic Studies of Acetyl Group Migration between the Saccharide Units in an Oligomannoside Trisaccharide Model Compound and a Native Galactoglucomannan Polysaccharide
Authors: Lassfolk Robert , Bertuzzi Sara , Ardá Ana , Wärnå Johan , Jiménez‐Barbero Jesús , Leino Reko
Published: August 2021

Acyl group migration is a fundamental phenomenon in carbohydrate chemistry, recently shown to take place also between two non‐adjacent hydroxyl groups, across the glycosidic bond, in a β‐(1→4)‐linked mannan trisaccharide model compound. With the central mannoside unit containing acetyl groups at the O2 and O3 positions, the O2‐acetyl was in the earlier study shown to migrate to O6 of the reducing end. Potential implications of the general acyl migration process on cell signaling events and plant growth in nature are intriguing open questions. In the present work, migration kinetics in this original trisaccharide model system were studied in more detail together with potential interactions of the model compound and the migration products with DC‐SIGN lectin. Furthermore, we demonstrate here for the first time that similar migration may also take place in native polysaccharides, here represented by galactoglucomannan from Norway spruce.
Clinical outcomes of endovascular procedure using VIABAHN® VBX covered stent in complex aortoiliac artery disease: Result from AVOCADO study
Authors: Fujihara Masahiko , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Yamaoka Terutoshi , Iida Osamu , Kojima Tai , Tobita Kazuki , Nakama Tatsuya , Kyuragi Ryoichi , Ichihashi Shigeo , Soga Yoshimitsu
Published: August 2021

Objective

To investigate the safety and efficacy of a balloon‐expandable covered stent in the treatment of complex aortoiliac artery disease.

Background

Peripheral intervention in complex aortoiliac disease still remains a challenge.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed symptomatic patients with aortoiliac disease who were treated with GORE® VIABAHN® VBX covered stent (W.L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, AZ). The primary study outcome was a 1‐year primary patency without the necessity of any subsequent clinically‐driven target revascularization (CD‐TLR) based intervention. The proportion of technical success, defined in terms of the absence of residual stenosis, stent edge dissection, and procedure‐related severe complications, was also reported.

Results

VBX covered stent was used in 231 patients. Key patient characteristics include mean age of 73.4 ± 9 years, 77% male, 45% diabetes, and 18% suffering from end‐stage renal dysfunction on dialysis. TASC II CD lesions were observed in 51% patients, which included 81% calcified lesions. Combined therapy with standard self‐expandable stent was performed in 40% patients. The technical success rate was 92.6%. During median follow‐up after 13.1 months, the primary patency rate was estimated to be 93.4% (95% confidence interval, 90.0%–96.8%) at 12 months, whereas the rate of freedom from TLR was 95.3% (92.5%–98.2%). As per the univariate analysis, the TASC II classification, number of diseased regions, and chronic total occlusion were significantly associated with risk of restenosis.

Conclusions

The results of the year‐long AVOCADO study demonstrated that usage of the novel VBX covered stent has a patency‐based advantage with reduced chances for subsequent revascularization procedures.
Influence of SiO2 Nanoparticles and Surfactants on Extraction Efficiency: Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Ghazvehi Mohammad , Nasiri Masoud , Mallah Mohammad Hasan , Safdari Jaber
Published: August 2021

The improvement of mass transfer in liquid‐liquid extraction systems of pulsed packed columns has recently attracted much attention. The influence of nanoparticle and surfactant concentration on hydrodynamic characteristics and the mass transfer coefficient in the liquid phase were evaluated. The addition of nanoparticles increases the diffusion and mass transfer, but they are not stable in this system. One possibility to improve the sustainability of nanoparticles is the simultaneous application of a surfactant and nanoparticles. A slightly higher concentration of surfactant resulted in a significant improvement in extraction efficiency. The Newman, Krong, and Hendlos theories and chemical affinity model were applied to study the mass transfer in the chemical system with and without nanoparticles.
High‐Pressure Synthesis of Sc5P12N23O3 and Ti5P12N24O2 by Activation of the Binary Nitrides ScN and TiN with NH4F
Authors: Eisenburger Lucien , Weippert Valentin , Oeckler Oliver , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: August 2021

Multinary transition metal nitrides and oxonitrides are a versatile and intriguing class of compounds. However, they have been investigated far less than pure oxides. The compounds Sc5P12N23O3 and Ti5P12N24O2 have now been synthesized from the binary nitrides ScN and TiN, respectively, by following a high‐pressure high‐temperature approach at 8 GPa and 1400 °C. NH4F acts as a mineralizing agent that supports product formation and crystallization. The starting materials ScN and TiN are seemingly an uncommon choice because of their chemical inertness but, nevertheless, react under these conditions. Sc5P12N23O3 and Ti5P12N24O2 crystallize isotypically with Ti5B12O26, consisting of solely vertex‐sharing P(O/N)4 tetrahedra forming two independent interpenetrating diamond‐like nets that host TM(O/N)6 (TM=Sc, Ti) octahedra. Ti5P12N24O2 is a mixed‐valence compound and shows ordering of Ti3+ and Ti4+ ions.
A Diazirine‐Modified Membrane Lipid to Study Peptide/Lipid Interactions – Chances and Challenges
Authors: Dorner Julia , Korn Patricia , Gruhle Kai , Ramsbeck Daniel , Garamus Vasil M. , Lilie Hauke , Meister Annette , Schwieger Christian , Ihling Christian , Sinz Andrea , Drescher Simon
Published: August 2021

Although incorporation of photo‐activatable lipids into membranes potentially opens up novel avenues for investigating interactions with proteins, the question of whether diazirine‐modified lipids are suitable for such studies, remains under debate. Focusing on the potential for studying lipid/peptide interactions by cross‐linking mass spectrometry (XL‐MS), we developed a diazirine‐modified lipid (DiazPC), and examined its behaviour in membranes incorporating the model α‐helical peptide LAVA20. We observed an unexpected backfolding of the diazirine‐containing stearoyl chain of the lipid. This surprising behaviour challenges the potential application of DiazPC for future XL‐MS studies of peptide and protein/lipid interactions. The observations made for DiazPC most likely represent a general phenomenon for any type of membrane lipids with a polar moiety incorporated into the alkyl chain. Our finding is therefore of importance for future protein/lipid interaction studies relying on modified lipid probes.
Design and Use of a High‐Pressure Stirred IR Cell for Operando Studies in Homogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Crotti Corrado , Ferretti Francesco , Ragaini Fabio
Published: August 2021

The design and operation of a new kind of high pressure/high temperature stirred IR cell is described. The cell is a stand‐alone autoclave made of Hastelloy and effective stirring and gas diffusion are provided by a magnetically driven Teflon shaft. The length of the optical path can be regulated without the need of calibrated spacers and the problem of the sealing of the windows to the cell body has been solved by employing FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene) encapsulated Viton O‐rings, which, upon adapting to the cell when warmed, provide an excellent seal that is also tolerant of all standard solvents. The use of this kind of O‐rings allows taking advantage of the chemical resistance of Teflon without needing to mechanically stress the fragile windows as it would be required if bulk Teflon O‐rings were employed.
Psychosocial perspectives among cancer patients during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) crisis: An observational longitudinal study
Authors: Turgeman Ilit , Goshen‐Lago Tal , Waldhorn Ithai , Karov Keren , Groisman Leora , Reiner Benaim Anat , Almog Ronit , Halberthal Michael , Ben‐Aharon Irit
Published: August 2021

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) crisis and consequent changes in medical practice have engendered feelings of distress in diverse populations, potentially adversely affecting the psychological well‐being of cancer patients.

Aim

The purpose of this observational longitudinal study was to evaluate psychosocial perspectives among patients with cancer on intravenous treatment during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods and results

The study recruited 164 cancer patients undergoing intravenous anti‐neoplastic therapy in a tertiary cancer center. Psychosocial indices were assessed at two points in time, corresponding with the beginning of the first wave of COVID‐19 pandemic in Israel (March 2020) and the time of easing of restrictions implemented to curtail spread of infection (May 2020). At Time 1 (T1), elevated COVID‐19 distress levels (score 1 and 2 on 5‐point scale) were observed in 44% of patients, and associated with pre‐existing hypertension and lung disease in multivariate analyses but no demographic or cancer related factors. At Time 2 (T2), 10% had elevated anxiety and 24% depression as indicated by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS‐A/D). COVID‐19 distress at T1 was related to higher levels of HADS‐A at T2 (Spearman 0.33 p < .01), but not HADS‐D. Patients with breast cancer expressed greater COVID‐19 distress compared with other cancer types (p < .01), while both HADS‐A and HADS‐D were highest for patients with GI cancer. Patient report of loneliness and decreased support from relatives were factors associated with HADS‐A (p = .03 and p < .01, respectively), while HADS‐D was not similarly related to the factors evaluated.

Conclusion

Patients with cancer undergoing intravenous treatment may be vulnerable to acute adverse psychological ramifications of COVID‐19, specifically exhibiting high levels of anxiety. These appear unrelated to patient age or disease stage. Those with underlying comorbidities, breast cancer or reduced social support may be at higher risk.
Adsorption‐Inhibition of Clathrate Hydrates by Self‐Assembled Nanostructures
Authors: Soussana Tamar Nicole , Weissman Haim , Rybtchinski Boris , Drori Ran
Published: August 2021

The mechanism by which safranine O (SFO), an ice growth inhibitor, halts the growth of single crystal tetrahydrofuran (THF) clathrate hydrates was explored using microfluidics coupled with cold stages and fluorescence microscopy. THF hydrates grown in SFO solutions exhibited morphology changes and were shaped as truncated octahedrons or hexagons. Fluorescence microscopy and microfluidics demonstrated that SFO binds to the surface of THF hydrates on specific crystal planes. Cryo‐TEM experiments of aqueous solutions containing millimolar concentrations of SFO exhibited the formation of bilayered lamellae with an average thickness of 4.2±0.2 nm covering several μm2. Altogether, these results indicate that SFO forms supramolecular lamellae in solution, which might bind to the surface of the hydrate and inhibit further growth. As an ice and hydrate inhibitor, SFO may bind to the surface of these crystals via ordered water molecules near its amine and methyl groups, similar to some antifreeze proteins.
Apatinib weakens resistance of gastric cancer cells to paclitaxel by suppressing JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway
Authors: Bei Yanping , Chen Xue , Xu Quan , Lv Jiaming , Hu Jing , Yang Shaohui
Published: August 2021

Apatinib has experienced a long‐term study in enhancing the sensitivity of various cancer cells to chemotherapy drugs. Currently, researches show that apatinib could attenuate the resistance of gastric cancer (GC) cells to paclitaxel (PTX), but the mechanism has not been fully elucidated, which therefore was explored in this study. PTX‐resistant GC cell, namely HGC‐27R, was established by exposure to stepwise‐increasing PTX. The cell viability of HGC‐27 and HGC‐27R under PTX or apatinib at different concentrations was assessed by CCK‐8 assay, while scratching test and invasion assay were used for investigating the harmful influence of GC cells resistance to PTX. The function of apatinib in HGC‐27R was studied by performing functional experiments (flow cytometry, scratching test, and invasion assay). Western blot was performed to measure the expressions of proteins concerning apoptosis, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and janus‐activated kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway. PTX‐resistant GC cell, namely HGC‐27R, was successively constructed. HGC‐27R cells showed resistance to PTX by promoting migratory and invasive capabilities. Apatinib not only inhibited cell viability of HGC‐27 and HGC‐27R, but also combined with PTX to suppress that of HGC‐27R. Apatinib enhanced apoptosis, diminished migration and invasion of HGC‐27R cells, elevated proapoptotic protein expression, and reduced Bcl‐2, vimentin, snail, MMP‐3, MMP‐2, and MMP‐9 expressions. The phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3 was repressed by apatinib. JAK2 partially reversed the effect of apatinib on enhancing sensitivity of GC cells to PTX. Apatinib strengthened sensitivity of GC cells to PTX by inhibiting JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway.