bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reinforcing Effects of Ring Plates on a Detachable Spudcan Subjected to Eccentric Load
Authors: Lee Seungyeon , You Ilhwan , Park Jongsup , Zi Goangseup
Published: October 2021

A detachable spudcan enables the operation of a jackup barge on any seabed. A general detachable spudcan uses a pin to connect the separate footing and leg. However, this type of structure can cause excessive stress on the pin. In this study, a new type of detachable spudcan reinforced with ring plates (upper and lower) is proposed to improve the structural performance of the conventional detachable spudcan. Finite element analysis revealed that the stress concentration in the connection part was relieved by reinforcing the lower and upper rings. In particular, reinforcing both lower and upper rings resulted in superior structural performance under eccentric supported conditions than when reinforcing only the lower ring. The structural strength of the spudcan when both the upper and lower rings were reinforced was found to be 120% of the spudcan as compared to when only the lower ring was reinforced. It is thought that the safety of the connection part can be secured when designing a detachable spudcan using the reinforcement plan verified in this study.
Stability Study Using Numerical Analysis for the Panel Method Applied to the Weathered Rock Section below the National Highway
Authors: Kim Ji-Sun , Kim Ja-Yeon , Eum Ki-Young , Cho KookHwan
Published: October 2021

In sections with poor ground conditions, it is difficult to apply the commonly used NATM tunnel method; thus, applications of the non-open cut tunneling method are increasing. This section is a tunnel crossing area under the national road in which the Panel method is to be applied to the section where a deeply buried layer and a loose weathered soil layer are distributed. Therefore, the stability of the upper road, the amount of settlement, and the stability of the tunnel structure were reviewed for each construction stage by using MIDAS GTX. Through the installation of measuring instruments in the tunnel area, the results of the numerical analysis were reviewed and the stability during and after construction was evaluated. Therefore, it is likely that the Panel method is an appropriate countermeasure in the downtown area and in areas with soft ground sections where the application of the general tunnel excavation method is difficult.
Analysis of Dynamic p-y Curve Characteristics According to Mode Shape of Structure Using Shaking Table Tests
Authors: Han Jae-hyeok , Ahn Seongnoh , Yoon Hyungchul , Jung Jongwon
Published: October 2021

In the seismic design of pile foundations, a p-y curve representing the nonlinear behavior of the ground considering the dynamic load of the earthquake is required. Recently, p-y curve analyses reflecting the soil-structure interaction have been conducted, but studies on multilayer structures have not been investigated extensively. In this study, the p-y curve characteristics were analyzed, considering the influence of the ground-structure interaction based on the mode shape of the structure (no structure, single-story structure, and three-story structure) through shake table tests. It was found that (1) the bending moment and pile displacement increased with input acceleration, and (2) the maximum soil resistance and pile displacement occurred at the natural frequencies of each structure were observed. In addition, the bending moment, soil resistance, and p-y curve slope were higher in the single-story structure than in the three-story structure. The findings indicate that the seismic design simulated for a single-story structure is conservative.
Improving the Minimum Design Velocity of Sewage Pipes
Authors: Song Yang Ho , Lee Yun Hee , Lee Jung Ho
Published: October 2021

The minimum design velocity for sewage pipes is set based on the planned quantity; however, deriving a reasonable design with only a single standard is limited. Thus, it is necessary to review whether consistent standards, such as the current minimum flow velocity, can efficiently transport the particles flowing in pipes. Improving the design that can determine the minimum design velocity rate and slope according to the concentration, specific gravity, particle size, and characteristics of the pipe material of the sediment flowing into the sewer system is necessary. In this study, the minimum design velocity for each particle size was examined based on the results of the simulation of fluid-solid multiphase flow required for the review process of hydraulic properties inside the pipe. The minimum design velocity standards for domestic and international sewage systems were investigated and compared, and a minimum design flow rate prediction equation was proposed considering the sedimentation. The equation includes the relationship between the particle size and pipe diameter and can be easily estimated.
Development of Heatwave Probability Prediction Model Based on Recurrent Neural Network: A Case of Seoul Metropolitan Government
Authors: Kim Dongwook , Jang Cho-Rok , Cho Jung-Yun , Jang Moon-Yup , Song Juil
Published: October 2021

Recently, the incidence of heat waves has increased due to climate change, and the resultant mortalities and socio-economic damage are also increasing in Korea. Hence, emphasis has been placed on research examining heatwaves and their effects. Predicting the probability of heatwave in advance is very important from the perspective of disaster risk management; however, related studies have been insufficient so far. Therefore, in this study, the probability of future heatwave onset was predicted using daily scaled past weather data for Seoul Metropolitan Government. For the analysis, models based on recurrent neural networks (RNN, LSTM, GRU) were used, which are suitable for analyzing time-series data. Upon evaluating the performance of the GRU model, which was selected as the optimized model, no overfitting problem was observed. The prediction accuracy of the model was high as it demonstrated a reproduction of 78% and 86% of actual heatwave days during the validation and test process, respectively. Therefore, this model can be used by each local government to coordinate an efficient response to heat waves.
Analysis of Spatio-Temporal Spread of Mega-Drought: Setting Forecast and Warning Criteria
Authors: Lee Chan Wook , Moon Gihoon , Hong Sungjin , Yoo Do Guen
Published: October 2021

In South Korea, drought disasters frequently occur due to the narrow area of the river basin and the concentration of rainfall in summer. In addition, climate change caused extreme droughts in 2015, levels that had never been experienced before. Thus, more severe droughts are expected in the future. To date, however, no countermeasures, such as preliminary warning standards for severe drought, have been prepared. In this study, we analyzed the degree of spatio-temporal spread of mega-drought entry situations and prepared the criteria for warnings based on the results. The results of the study can be used as basic data to prepare standards for responding to possible extreme droughts in the future.
Chemical inducer of regucalcin attenuates lipopolysaccharide‐induced inflammatory responses in pancreatic MIN6 β‐cells and RAW264.7 macrophages
Authors: Murata Tomiyasu , Hashimoto Kazunori , Kohno Susumu , Takahashi Chiaki , Yamaguchi Masayoshi , Ito Chihiro , Masataka Itoigawa , Kojima Roji , Hikita Kiyomi , Kaneda Norio
Published: October 2021

We previously isolated derrisfolin A, a novel rotenoid derivative, from the stems of Derris trifoliata Lour. (Leguminosae). Here, we report that derrisfolin A induces the expression of endogenous regucalcin (RGN) protein in both pancreatic MIN6 β‐cells and RAW264.7 macrophages. Induction of RGN expression by derrisfolin A or retrovirus‐mediated gene transfer in MIN6 cells and RAW264.7 macrophages significantly decreased lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced mRNA expression of Nos2, Il1b, and Tnf via nuclear factor‐κB activation; reduced LPS‐induced apoptosis in MIN6 cells, accompanied by decreased production of nitric oxide, interleukin‐1β, and tumor necrosis factor‐α; and attenuated generation of LPS‐induced reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and 3‐nitrotyrosine in MIN6 cells. Additionally, in co‐cultures of MIN6 cells with RAW264.7 macrophages in the presence of LPS, induction of RGN expression by derrisfolin A or retrovirus‐mediated gene transfer in RAW264.7 macrophages attenuated apoptosis and oxidative/nitrosative stress in MIN6 cells. These results suggest that the induction of RGN expression in MIN6 cells was effective in suppressing LPS‐induced inflammatory cytotoxicity and that in co‐culture conditions, the induction of RGN expression in RAW264.7 macrophages blocked LPS‐induced paracrine effects of RAW264.7 macrophages on inflammatory cytotoxicity in MIN6 cells. Our findings suggest that derrisfolin A, a chemical inducer of RGN, might be useful for developing a new drug against macrophage‐associated β‐cell inflammation in type 2 diabetes.
Measuring treatment response to advance precision medicine for multiple sclerosis
Authors: Calabresi Peter A. , Kappos Ludwig , Giovannoni Gavin , Plavina Tatiana , Koulinska Irene , Edwards Michael R. , Kieseier Bernd , de Moor Carl , Sotirchos Elias S. , Fisher Elizabeth , Rudick Richard A. , Sandrock Alfred
Published: October 2021

Objective

To assess the independent contributions of clinical measures (relapses, Expanded Disability Status Scale [EDSS] scores, and neuroperformance measures) and nonclinical measures (new brain magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] activity and serum neurofilament light chain [sNfL] levels) for distinguishing natalizumab‐treated from placebo‐treated patients.

Methods

We conducted post hoc analyses using data from the AFFIRM trial of natalizumab for multiple sclerosis. We used multivariable regression analyses with predictors (EDSS progression, no relapse, new or enlarging MRI activity, brain atrophy, sNfL levels, and neuroperformance worsening) to identify measures that independently discriminated between treatment groups.

Results

The multivariable model that best distinguished natalizumab from placebo was no new or enlarging T2 or gadolinium‐enhancing activity on MRI (odds ratio; 95% confidence interval: 7.2; 4.7–10.9), year 2 sNfL levels <97.5th percentile (4.1; 2.6–6.2), and no relapses in years 0–2 (2.1; 1.5–3.0). The next best‐fitting model was a two‐component model that included no MRI activity and sNfL levels <97.5th percentile at year 2. There was little difference between the three‐ and two‐component models.

Interpretation

Nonclinical measures (new MRI activity and sNfL levels) discriminate between treatment and placebo groups similarly to or better than clinical outcomes composites and have implications for patient monitoring.
Nature‐Inspired Substrate‐Independent Omniphobic and Antimicrobial Slippery Surfaces
Authors: Cox Harrison J. , Gibson Colin P. , Sharples Gary J. , Badyal Jas Pal S.
Published: October 2021

Inspired by the carnivorous Nepenthes pitcher plant, a range of highly liquid repellent lubricant‐infused surfaces has been devised (low water droplet contact angle hysteresis and sliding angle values). This entails matching functional pulsed plasma polymer nanolayers with appropriate slippery lubricants. A molecular‐level structure–behavior relationship is developed, highlighting the importance of favorable aromatic–aliphatic intermolecular interactions between the coating and lubricant. Fluorinated lubricant‐infused pulsed plasma polymer nanocoatings resist wetting by liquids, spanning a wide range of surface tensions (including pentane, motor oil, and water, i.e., omniphobicity). In the case of natural antimicrobial compound‐infused functional plasma polymer surfaces (e.g., the essential oil cinnamaldehyde), multifunctional performance is attained combining high liquid repellency (self‐cleaning) with simultaneous strong antibacterial activity against both Gram‐positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram‐negative Escherichia coli (log10 reduction > 7). In addition, these lubricant‐infused functional pulsed plasma polymer surfaces easily repel a variety of everyday liquids (including foodstuffs such as tomato ketchup and honey).
Self‐Assembled Fullerene Nanostructures: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Baskar Arun V. , Benzigar Mercy R. , Talapaneni Siddulu Naidu , Singh Gurwinder , Karakoti Ajay S. , Yi Jiabao , Al‐Muhtaseb Ala'a H. , Ariga Katsuhiko , Ajayan Pulickel M. , Vinu Ajayan
Published: October 2021

Functionalized fullerene nanostructures are a distinct class of materials that exhibit the combined properties of both fullerene and nanostructures including excellent optoelectronic features, modified band edges, high electron affinity, fast charge transfer capabilities, and tunable structural and textural properties. These fascinating properties allow for their utilization in many applications such as polymer solar cells, photovoltaics, photocatalysis, photodynamic therapy, electrocatalysis, environmental remediation, and drug and gene delivery. Numerous synthesis methods and anchoring groups are employed for functionalized fullerenes with nanostructures by using convergent bottom‐up and top‐down strategies. The supramolecular self‐assembly and functionalization of fullerenes through robust chemistry approaches such as surface oxidation, grafting, polymer coating, doping of metals/nonmetal heteroatoms, noncovalent modification with 2D materials and nanoparticle attachment result in achieving fine control over its surface and bulk properties, including increased solubility, wettability, electron transport, acid–base properties, adsorption, electronic conductivity, and light absorption. This review analyzes the salient developments in the fabrication of nanostructured fullerenes and their functionalized derivatives for many applications including adsorption, catalysis, sensors, energy storage, solar cells, drug delivery, magnetic and superconducting devices. The contents of this review will allow the readers to cherish exciting possibilities and opportunities in field of functionalized nanofullerenes.
Flexible and Robust Bacterial Cellulose‐Based Ionogels with High Thermoelectric Properties for Low‐Grade Heat Harvesting
Authors: Liu Kuankuan , Lv Jingchun , Fan Guodong , Wang Bijia , Mao Zhiping , Sui Xiaofeng , Feng Xueling
Published: October 2021

The utilization of low‐grade and abundant thermal sources based on thermoelectric (TE) materials is crucial for the development of a sustainable society. However, high‐performance thermoelectric materials with biodegradable, mass‐productive, and low‐cost features are rarely reported. Here, from the perspective of sustainable development, natural polymer (bacterial cellulose, BC), and “green” solvent (ionic liquids, ILs) are combined to achieve a transparent, flexible, and robust ionogel (BCIGs) by using a facile and versatile modified co‐solvent evaporation method. The proposed BCIGs with 95 wt% 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium dicyanamide ([EMIm][DCA]) can have high tensile strength (3.05 MPa), skin‐like mechanical stretchability (40.99%), and obvious adhesivity. The BCIGs are thermally stable up to 250 °C. They also exhibit a high ionic conductivity (2.88 × 10−2 S cm−1), high ionic thermovoltage (18.04 mV K−1), and low thermal conductivity (0.21 W m−1 K−1), resulting in the great ionic figure of merit (ZTi) of 1.33 at room temperature. Through the model of mesoscopic confined ion transportation under a thermal gradient, it is attributed the great thermoelectric properties to the synergistic effect between ion–cellulose interaction and ion–ion interaction. Moreover, a flexible ionic thermoelectric capacitor (ITEC) device is also demonstrated, showing the potential of the BCIGs in wearable energy supply.
Liquid Metal Printed Optoelectronics Toward Fast Fabrication of Customized and Erasable Patterned Displays
Authors: Zhou Zhuquan , Yao Yuchen , Zhang Chenglin , Deng Zhongshan , Li Qian , Wang Qian , Liu Jing
Published: October 2021

Display devices show great application prospects in various fields. Among them, the flexible display which can quickly produce customizable patterns has attracted the attention of researchers. In this study, two types of electroluminescent devices, which introduce liquid metal printed patterns as the electrodes for electrical input, are proposed, theoretically analyzed, and experimentally characterized. One type is to stack the liquid metal electrode, the emissive layer and the transparent electrode in a sandwich configuration. The other is to construct two patterned liquid metal electrodes on one side of the emissive layer and then emit light from the edge of the liquid metal patterns. Compared with the traditional materials, the liquid metal can be quickly patterned so that the obtained liquid metal electroluminescent devices can display customized and erasable luminous patterns. This new display device is easy to access in virtue of various liquid metal printed methods. For practical illustrations, a wristband for monitoring human body temperature and a programmable 8 × 8 pixels flexible screen with double layer liquid metal printed circuits are further designed and demonstrated. This study opens the door to quickly fabricate personalized displays in low quantities based on liquid metal and shows significant potential in flexible electronics.
Synthesis of Bio‐Based Silane Coupling Agents by the Modification of Eugenol
Authors: Sokolnicki Tomasz , Franczyk Adrian , Janowski Bartłomiej , Walkowiak Jędrzej
Published: October 2021

A simple method for the synthesis of new bio‐based silane coupling agents (SCAs) with a terpene aromatic core by the functionalization of cheap, natural eugenol and its sulfur derivatives using the hydrosilylation of the C=C bonds with HSi(OEt)3, followed by nucleophilic substitution reactions of OH/SH groups is presented. The obtained alkoxysilanes possess different polymer‐reactive functionalities (alkenyl, epoxide, thiirane, thiocarbamoyl, thioester, thioether moieties). This new group of biogenic SCAs was fully characterized using 1H, 13C, 29Si NMR, FT‐IR, GC‐MS, and HRMS or elemental analysis. Examples of their application as additives to tire rubbers and their influence on several factors are also discussed.

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Optical‐Field‐Driven Electron Tunneling in Metal–Insulator–Metal Nanojunction
Authors: Zhou Shenghan , Guo Xiangdong , Chen Ke , Cole Matthew Thomas , Wang Xiaowei , Li Zhenjun , Dai Jiayu , Li Chi , Dai Qing
Published: October 2021

Optical‐field driven electron tunneling in nanojunctions has made demonstrable progress toward the development of ultrafast charge transport devices at subfemtosecond time scales, and have evidenced great potential as a springboard technology for the next generation of on‐chip “lightwave electronics.” Here, the empirical findings on photocurrent the high nonlinearity in metal–insulator–metal (MIM) nanojunctions driven by ultrafast optical pulses in the strong optical‐field regime are reported. In the present MIM device, a 14th power‐law scaling is identified, never achieved before in any known solid‐state device. This work lays important technological foundations for the development of a new generation of ultracompact and ultrafast electronics devices that operate with suboptical‐cycle response times.
A Variety of Functional Devices Realized by Ionic Nanoarchitectonics, Complementing Electronics Components
Authors: Terabe Kazuya , Tsuchiya Takashi , Tsuruoka Tohru
Published: October 2021

To realize the continuous development of information and communication equipment, it is also important to develop devices with new operating principles that overcome the functional and performance limitations of conventional electronics devices, such as transistors made of semiconductor materials. One group of devices that hold this promise is nanoionics devices that operate by using local ion transport and electrochemical reaction in solids. A number of nanoionics devices that control nanoelectrochemical phenomena through the use of ionic nanoarchitectonics have been created. Here the use of ionic nanoarchitectonics to locally control ion transport and electrochemical reactions through the use of ion conductors or mixed conductors as device materials is described. Further, the structures of nanoionics devices created by using the nanoarchitectonics, as well as their various electrical, magnetic and optical functionalities are introduced. It is expected that such nanoionics devices will complement conventional electronics devices, and make possible the further development of information and communication technologies.
Rational Design of Highly Efficient Semi‐Transparent Organic Photovoltaics with Silver Nanowire Top Electrode via 3D Optical Simulation Study
Authors: Jeong Hong In , Biswas Swarup , Yoon Sung Cheol , Ko Seo‐Jin , Kim Hyeok , Choi Hyosung
Published: October 2021

A key factor in improving semi‐transparent organic photovoltaics (ST‐OPVs) performance is achieving high light utilization efficiency (LUE). However, device performance can also be limited by the lack of understanding of light transmission and reflection within the device architecture, and the transmission of the top electrode in particular. Here, highly efficient ST‐OPVs are reported via the rational design of silver nanowire (Ag NW) top electrodes via 3D optical simulation. Due to its careful consideration for the ST‐OPV of the effect of the Ag NW networking structure, estimated average visible transmission (AVT) and ideal short‐circuit current density values from 3D optical simulation closely match those from actual measurements. Optimized ST‐OPVs with Ag NW porosity of 20% and active layer thickness of 150 nm exhibit LUE of 4.15% with a power conversion efficiency of 9.7% and AVT of 42.82%. This work achieves a record‐high LUE in ST‐OPVs reported to date and the first report introducing a 3D optical simulation study.
Propylammonium Chloride Additive for Efficient and Stable FAPbI3 Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Yong , Li Yan , Zhang Lin , Hu Hanlin , Tang Zikang , Xu Baomin , Park Nam‐Gyu
Published: October 2021

To achieve high efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs) based on α‐phase formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI3), addition of methylammonium chloride (MACl) in the precursor solution is commonly used, mainly because of phase stability and improvement of grain size and crystallinity. However, the instability of MA in the perovskite limits the device long‐term stability. In this report, n‐propylammonium chloride (PACl) is proposed as an alternative to MACl for more stable and efficient FAPbI3‐based PSCs. Perovskite grain size is increased after addition of PACl. Unlike the MA cation, the propylammonium cation passivates the grain boundary rather than being incorporated into the perovskite lattice due to larger ionic size, which minimizes the change in bandgap. Carrier lifetime is significantly increased by more than five times from 405 to 2110 ns with the PACl additive with negligible trap‐mediated recombination, while only four times longer carrier lifetime is observed by MACl additive. As a result, a power conversion efficiency over 22.2% is achieved by 20 mol% PACl additive, which is one of the best efficiencies among the MA‐free and Br‐free PSCs. In addition, stability against moisture is much better for PACl than for MACl due to an in situ formed barrier at the bulk perovskite.
Prognostic significance of acquired 1q22 gain in multiple myeloma
Authors: Audil Hadiyah Y. , Cook Joselle M. , Greipp Patricia T. , Kapoor Prashant , Baughn Linda B. , Dispenzieri Angela , Gertz Morie A. , Buadi Francis K. , Lacy Martha Q. , Dingli David , Fonder Amie L. , Hayman Suzanne R. , Hobbs Miriam A. , Muchtar Eli , Siddiqui Mustaqeem , Gonsalves Wilson I. , Hwa Yi Lisa , Leung Nelson , Lin Yi , Kourelis Taxiarchis V. , Warsame Rahma , Kyle Robert A. , Ketterling Rhett P. , Rajkumar S. Vincent , Kumar Shaji K.
Published: October 2021

Gain of 1q22 at diagnosis portends poorer outcomes in multiple myeloma (MM), but the prognostic significance of acquired 1q22 gain is unknown. We identified 63 MM patients seen at Mayo Clinic from 1/2004 to 12/2019 without 1q22 gain at diagnosis who acquired it during follow up and compared them to 63 control patients who did not acquire 1q22 gain with similar follow up. We also compared outcomes in the acquired 1q22 gain group with outcomes in 126 patients with 1q22 gain present at diagnosis. The incidence of acquired 1q22 gain was 6.1% (median follow‐up 6.8 years); median time to acquisition was 5.0 years (range: 0.7–11.5 years). Abnormalities on baseline fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) included trisomies (54%) and monosomy 13 (39%); 16 (25%) had high‐risk (HR) translocations or del(17p). Median progression‐free survival with front line therapy was 29.5 months in patients with acquired 1q22 gain, versus 31.4 months in control patients (p = .34) and 31.2 months in patients with de novo 1q22 gain (p = .04). Median overall survival (OS) from diagnosis was 10.9 years in patients with acquired 1q22 gain, versus 13.0 years in control patients (p = .03) and 6.3 years in patients with de novo 1q22 gain (p = .01). Presence of HR FISH at baseline increased risk of 1q22 gain acquisition. We demonstrate that acquisition of 1q22 gain is a significant molecular event in MM, associated with reduced OS. Among HR patients for whom this clonal evolution is determined, a risk‐adapted approach and/or clinical trial should be considered.
Overview of age‐related changes in psychomotor and cognitive functions in a prosimian primate, the gray mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus): Recent advances in risk factors and antiaging interventions
Authors: Chaudron Yohann , Pifferi Fabien , Aujard Fabienne
Published: October 2021

Aging is not homogeneous in humans and the determinants leading to differences between subjects are not fully understood. Impaired glucose homeostasis is a major risk factor for cognitive decline in middle‐aged humans, pointing at the existence of early markers of unhealthy aging. The gray mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus), a small lemuriform Malagasy primate, shows relatively slow aging with decreased psychomotor capacities at middle‐age (around 5‐year old). In some cases (∼10%), it spontaneously leads to pathological aging. In this case, some age‐related deficits, such as severe cognitive decline, brain atrophy, amyloidosis, and glucoregulatory imbalance are congruent with what is observed in humans. In the present review, we inventory the changes occurring in psychomotor and cognitive functions during healthy and pathological aging in mouse lemur. It includes a summary of the cerebral, metabolic, and cellular alterations that occur during aging and their relation to cognitive decline. As nutrition is one of the major nonpharmacological antiaging strategies with major potential effects on cognitive performances, we also discuss its role in brain functions and cognitive decline in this species. We show that the overall approach of aging studies in the gray mouse lemur offers promising ways of investigation for understanding, prevention, and treatments of pathological aging in humans.
Engineering membrane asymmetry to increase medium‐chain fatty acid tolerance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Liu Hui , Yuan Weijia , Zhou Pei , Liang Guangjie , Gao Cong , Guo Liang , Hu Guipeng , Song Wei , Wu Jing , Chen Xiulai , Liu Liming
Published: October 2021

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is an attractive chassis for the production of medium‐chain fatty acids, but the toxic effect of these compounds often prevents further improvements in titer, yield, and productivity. To address this issue, Lem3 and Sfk1 were identified from adaptive laboratory evolution mutant strains as membrane asymmetry regulators. Co‐overexpression of Lem3 and Sfk1 [Lem3(M)‐Sfk1(H) strain] through promoter engineering remodeled the membrane phospholipid distribution, leading to an increased accumulation of phosphatidylethanolamine in the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane. As a result, membrane potential and integrity were increased by 131.5% and 29.2%, respectively; meanwhile, the final OD600 in the presence of hexanoic acid, octanoic acid, and decanoic acid was improved by 79.6%, 73.4%, and 57.7%, respectively. In summary, this study shows that membrane asymmetry engineering offers an efficient strategy to enhance medium‐chain fatty acids tolerance in S. cerevisiae, thus generating a robust industrial strain for producing high‐value biofuels.
Cervical cancer screening uptake and determinant factors among women in Ambo town, Western Oromia, Ethiopia: Community‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Natae Shewaye F. , Nigatu Digafe T. , Negawo Mulu K. , Mengesha Wakeshe W.
Published: October 2021

Background

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer‐related death in Ethiopian women. About 77.6% of women died of 6294 new cases reported in 2019. Early screening for cervical cancer has substantially reduced morbidity and mortality attributed to it. In Ethiopia, most of the women visit the health facilities at the late stage of the disease in which the offered intervention is not promising. Therefore, we aimed to assess the level of cervical cancer screening uptake and its determinant among women of Ambo town, Ethiopia.

Methods

Community‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among 422 women aged 20–65 years. An interviewer‐administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Estimates were presented using an odds ratio (OR) with 95% CI. Statistical significance was declared at a p value of <0.05.

Results

In the present study, 392 women were participated giving a response rate of 93%. Only 8.7% (34) of the study participants were received cervical cancer screening in their lifetime. Being in the age group of 30–39 years (AOR = 3.2, 95% CI: 1.22, 8.36), having cervical cancer‐related discussions with a healthcare provider (AOR = 3.5; 95% CI: 1.17, 10.7), and knowing the availability of cervical cancer screening service (AOR = 2.8; 95% CI: 1.03, 7.87) were significantly associated with uptake of cervical cancer screening.

Conclusion

In this study, cervical cancer screening uptake is very low. Our study identifies clues for determinants of cervical cancer screening uptake. Thus, further studies using a better study design might be helpful to explore determinants of low utilization of CC screening services and suggest an appropriate intervention that increases CC screening uptake in the study area.
Central mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the maxilla developing from a calcifying odontogenic cyst: A rare case report
Authors: Isshiki‐Murakami Megumi , Tachinami Hidetake , Tomihara Kei , Noguchi Akira , Sekido Katsuhisa , Imaue Shuichi , Fujiwara Kumiko , Imura Johji , Noguchi Makoto
Published: October 2021

Intraosseous mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the jaw is a rare lesion that has been suggested to originate from the odontogenic epithelium. We report an unusual case of central mucoepidermoid carcinoma in an 18‐year‐old Japanese man with an odontogenic cyst.
Nickel‐Mediated Photoreductive Cross Coupling of Carboxylic Acid Derivatives for Ketone Synthesis**
Authors: Brauer Jan , Quraishi Elisabeth , Kammer Lisa Marie , Opatz Till
Published: October 2021

A simple visible light photochemical, nickel‐catalyzed synthesis of ketones from carboxylic acid‐derived precursors is presented. Hantzsch ester (HE) functions as a cheap, green and strong photoreductant to facilitate radical generation and also engages in the Ni‐catalytic cycle to restore the reactive species. With this dual role, HE allows for the coupling of a large variety of radicals (1°,2°, benzylic, α‐oxy & α‐amino) with aroyl and alkanoyl moieties, a new feature in reactions of this type. With both precursors deriving from abundant carboxylic acids, this protocol is a welcome addition to the organic chemistry toolbox. The reaction proceeds under mild conditions without the need for toxic metal reagents or bases and shows a wide scope, including pharmaceuticals and complex molecular architectures.
MicroRNA‐Triggered Nanozymes Cascade Reaction for Tumor‐Specific Chemodynamic Therapy
Authors: Liu Hao , You Yawen , Sang Yanjuan , Pu Fang , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: October 2021

Off‐target toxicity and insufficient hydroxyl radicals (.OH) generation limit the further clinical application of nanozymes in chemodynamic therapy (CDT). Herein, we designed and constructed a microRNA‐triggered nanozyme cascade platform for enhanced tumor‐specific chemodynamic therapy. The nanozyme‐based cascade reaction could be triggered successfully by the high expression of microRNA in cancer cells to generate more .OH, thus exhibiting excellent tumor‐specific therapeutic performance. Our work provides a new dimension for tumor‐specific chemodynamic therapy.
Individual psychotherapy can reduce suicidal ideation in first episode psychosis: Further findings from the 2‐year follow‐up of the ‘Parma Early Psychosis’ programme
Authors: Pelizza Lorenzo , Maestri Davide , Leuci Emanuela , Quattrone Emanuela , Azzali Silvia , Paulillo Giuseppina , Pellegrini Pietro
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Suicidal thinking is relevant in patients with First Episode Psychosis (FEP). However, longitudinal studies specifically examining treatment response for suicidal ideation in FEP are still relatively scarce, especially with long‐term design and in real‐world clinical settings. The aims of this research were (A) to longitudinally assess suicidal thoughts in people with FEP along a 2‐year follow‐up period and (B) to overtime investigate any significant association of suicidal ideation levels with the specific treatment components of an ‘Early Intervention in Psychosis’ (EIP) protocol along the 2 years of follow‐up.

Methods

At entry, 232 FEP participants (aged 12–35 years) completed the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), including a ‘Suicidality’ item subscore. Multiple linear regression analysis was then performed.

Results

Across the follow‐up, FEP subjects showed a relevant decrease in suicidal thinking levels overtime. This was specifically predicted by the total number of individual psychotherapy sessions offered within the 2‐year EIP protocol and antidepressant dose (at least as regards the first year of our intervention).

Conclusion

Suicidal ideation is clinically relevant in FEP but seems to improve overtime together with the provision of specific, patient‐tailored and integrated EIP treatments, especially individual psychotherapy.
Load torque control of an electromagnetic motor with a reduction gear and motor/load‐side encoders using a spring model including a dead zone
Authors: Kondo Daichi , Yashiro Daisuke , Yubai Kazuhiro , Komada Satoshi
Published: October 2021

Actuators with characteristics such as light weight, a high torque/weight ratio, and a high torque control performance are desired for contact tasks using robots. Although electromagnetic motors with gears have these features, friction in gears degrades the torque control performance. Therefore, in this study, the load torque control performance is improved by utilizing motor/load side angle information. Both the torque controller and the load torque observer in the proposed control system utilize motor/load side encoders and the spring model, which includes a dead zone. The dead zone model represents the backlash between the motor output shaft and the reducer output shaft. A simulation and experiment show the efficacy of the proposed control system.
Clinical and genetic spectrum in Chinese families with Fabry disease: a single‐centre case series
Authors: Chen Xin , Li Hezhi , Liao Hongtao , Zhan Xianzhang , Zhong Zhian , Zhang Qianhuan , Liu Lie , Liang Yuanhong , Deng Hai , Fang Xianhong , Xue Yumei , Wu Shulin , Liu Yang
Published: October 2021

Aims

Fabry disease (FD) is an X‐linked genetic disease caused by mutations in the GLA gene that leads to deficient activity of lysosomal enzymes, accumulation of globotriaosylceramide in multi‐organ systems, and variant clinical manifestations. We aimed to detail the clinical and genetic spectrum of FD in Chinese families.

Methods and results

Five male probands with unexplained left ventricular hypertrophy and their family members were investigated. Genetic screening was available in 11 subjects of the 5 families, 10 of whom proved to be carriers of either GLA gene mutation, including 3 previous reported missense mutations (c.128G > A, c.811G > A, c.950T > C), 1 novel missense mutation (c.37G > C), and 1 novel deletion mutation (c.1241delT). A total of 17 patients were definitely or possibly diagnosed of FD, given their clinical manifestations and hereditary nature of FD. Echocardiography demonstrated normal cardiac structure and function in six female patients. Electrocardiographic pre‐excitation occurred in 80% (4/5) of men and 16.7% (1/6) of women. Six patients (6/14, 42.9%) had chronic kidney disease with decreased renal function and all were male (6/7, 85.7%). Six patients presented with acroparesthesia, hypohidrosis, or both. Three female patients and two male patients experienced sudden death, and one male patient with the mutation (c.128G > A) died of progressive heart failure, between 41 and 66 years of age.

Conclusions

We reported five unrelated families of FD with different GLA mutations. Clinical manifestations were highly heterogeneous between male and female patients even within the same family. Female patients showed relatively low risks of structural heart disease and renal insufficiency. However, the long‐term outcomes might be adverse in both sexes. Our study underlines the importance of molecular screening of the GLA gene for early identification and clinical decision making in patients with FD.
Rationale and Design of the Efficacy of a Standardized Diuretic Protocol in Acute Heart Failure Study
Authors: Dauw Jeroen , Lelonek Malgorzata , Zegri‐Reiriz Isabel , Paredes‐Paucar Cynthia P. , Zara Cornelia , George Varghese , Cobo‐Marcos Marta , Knappe Dorit , Shchekochikhin Dmitry , Lekhakul Annop , Klincheva Milka , Frea Simone , Miró Òscar , Barker Diane , Borbély Attila , Nasr Samer , Doghmi Nawal , de la Espriella Rafael , Singh Jagdeep S. , Bovolo Virginia , Fialho Inês , Ross Noel T. , van den Heuvel Mieke , Benkouar Riad , Findeisen Hajo , Alhaddad Imad A. , Al Balbissi Kais , Barge‐Caballero Gonzalo , Ghazi Azmee M. , Bruckers Liesbeth , Martens Pieter , Mullens Wilfried
Published: October 2021

Aims

Although acute heart failure (AHF) with volume overload is treated with loop diuretics, their dosing and type of administration are mainly based upon expert opinion. A recent position paper from the Heart Failure Association (HFA) proposed a step‐wise pharmacologic diuretic strategy to increase the diuretic response and to achieve rapid decongestion. However, no study has evaluated this protocol prospectively.

Methods and results

The Efficacy of a Standardized Diuretic Protocol in Acute Heart Failure (ENACT‐HF) study is an international, multicentre, non‐randomized, open‐label, pragmatic study in AHF patients on chronic loop diuretic therapy, admitted to the hospital for intravenous loop diuretic therapy, aiming to enrol 500 patients. Inclusion criteria are as follows: at least one sign of volume overload (oedema, ascites, or pleural effusion), use ≥ 40 mg of furosemide or equivalent for >1 month, and a BNP > 250 ng/L or an N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide > 1000 pg/L. The study is designed in two sequential phases. During Phase 1, all centres will treat consecutive patients according to the local standard of care. In the Phase 2 of the study, all centres will implement a standardized diuretic protocol in the next cohort of consecutive patients. The protocol is based upon the recently published HFA algorithm on diuretic use and starts with intravenous administration of two times the oral home dose. It includes early assessment of diuretic response with a spot urinary sodium measurement after 2 h and urine output after 6 h. Diuretics will be tailored further based upon these measurements. The study is powered for its primary endpoint of natriuresis after 1 day and will be able to detect a 15% difference with 80% power. Secondary endpoints are natriuresis and diuresis after 2 days, change in congestion score, change in weight, in‐hospital mortality, and length of hospitalization.

Conclusions

The ENACT‐HF study will investigate whether a step‐wise diuretic approach, based upon early assessment of urinary sodium and urine output as proposed by the HFA, is feasible and able to improve decongestion in AHF with volume overload.
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance findings in non‐hospitalized paediatric patients after recovery from COVID‐19
Authors: Seidel Franziska , Kuehne Titus , Kelle Sebastian , Doeblin Patrick , Zieschang Victoria , Tschoepe Carsten , Al‐Wakeel‐Marquard Nadya , Nordmeyer Sarah
Published: October 2021

Aims

Our study aimed to investigate the cardiac involvement with sensitive tissue characterization in non‐hospitalized children with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging.

Methods and results

We prospectively enrolled children who recovered from mildly symptomatic COVID‐19 infection between November 2020 and January 2021. Patients underwent CMR at 1.5 T (Achieva, Philips Healthcare, Best, the Netherlands) including cine images, native T1 and T2 mapping. Healthy children and paediatric patients with biopsy‐proven myocarditis served as control groups. We performed CMR in 18 children with a median (25th–75th percentile) age of 12 (10–15) years, 38 (24–47) days after positive PCR test, and compared them with 7 healthy controls [15 (10–19) years] and 9 patients with myocarditis [10 (4–16) years]. The COVID‐19 patients reported no cardiac symptoms. None of the COVID‐19 patients showed CMR findings consistent with a myocarditis. Three patients (17%) from the COVID‐19 cohort presented with minimal pericardial effusion. CMR parameters of COVID‐19 patients, including volumetric and strain values as well as T1 and T2 times, were not significantly different from healthy controls, but from myocarditis patients. These had significantly reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (P = 0.035), LV global longitudinal strain, and left atrial strain values as well as elevated native T1 values compared with COVID‐19 patients (P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

There was no evidence of myocardial inflammation, fibrosis, or functional cardiac impairment in the studied cohort of children recently. CMR findings were comparable with those of healthy controls. Pericardial effusion suggests a mild pericarditis in a small subgroup. This is pointing to a minor clinical relevance of myocardial involvement in children after mildly symptomatic COVID‐19 infections.
Mechanism of ammonia oxidation to dinitrogen, nitrite, and nitrate on β‐Ni(OH)2 from first‐principles simulations
Authors: Choueiri Rachelle M. , Tatarchuk Stephen W. , Klinkova Anna , Chen Leanne D.
Published: October 2021

The electrocatalyzed ammonia oxidation reaction (AOR) is a potential pathway toward waste ammonia remediation, energy generation, and the synthesis of value‐added products. To date, mechanistic studies have focused on elucidating the progress of AOR on Pt‐based catalysts with an established pathway for only. In this work, density functional theory was applied to determine the lowest energy intermediates toward nitrogen gas, nitrite, and nitrate formation on ‐, a promising electrocatalyst material for AOR. It was found that dinitrogen formation progresses via NH‐NH coupling, whereas nitrite and nitrate formation occurs via deprotonation of ammonia to form adsorbed N and subsequent hydroxylation to form oxygenated intermediates. This work is the first to report a mechanism for nitrite and nitrate formation and will also serve as a benchmark for future studies on Ni‐based materials.
Scalable downstream method for the cyclic lipopetide jagaricin
Authors: Stein Jakob , Schlosser Nicolas , Bardl Bettina , Peschel Gundela , Meyer Florian , Kloss Florian , Rosenbaum Miriam A. , Regestein Lars
Published: October 2021

Cyclic lipopeptides are substances with a high potential to act as antimicrobial agents. Jagaricin, produced by Janthinobacterium agaricidamnosum DSM 9628 and discovered in 2012, is a new member of this class with promising antifungal properties. However, further experiments to investigate future applications and/or conduct chemical derivatization to change properties and toxicity are impossible due to the limited access to jagaricin. Besides a high jagaricin concentration at the end of the fermentation process, a suitable downstream process is essential to generate appropriate amounts with the desired purity. In contrast to other amphiphilic molecules, jagaricin cannot be separated by foam fractionation since it is mainly attached to the surface of the microbial biomass. This technical report presents an overall process chain consisting of 11 individual steps to generate jagaricin in gram scale with a purity of over 95%.
Physiologic isolation and expansion of human mesenchymal stem/stromal cells for manufacturing of cell‐based therapy products
Authors: Egger Dominik , Lavrentieva Antonina , Kugelmeier Patrick , Kasper Cornelia
Published: October 2021

The utilization of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells raises new hopes in treatment of diseases and pathological conditions, while at the same time bringing immense challenges for researchers, manufacturers and physicians. It is essential to consider all steps along the in vitro fabrication of cell‐based products in order to reach efficient and reproducible treatment outcomes. Here, the optimal protocols for isolation, cultivation and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells are required. In this review we discuss these aspects and their influence on the final cell‐based product quality. We demonstrate that physiological in vitro cell cultivation conditions play a crucial role in therapeutic functionalities of cultivated cells. We show that three‐dimensional cell culture, dynamic culture conditions and physiologically relevant in vitro oxygen concentrations during isolation and expansion make a decisive contribution towards the improvement of cell‐based products in regenerative medicine.
Resurrecting an Idaho Icon: How Research and Management Reversed Declines of Native Westslope Cutthroat Trout
Authors: Mallet Jerry , Thurow Russell F
Published: October 2021

Westslope Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi (WCT), the dominant nonanadromous salmonid in central and northern Idaho, historically were extremely abundant and widely distributed. Despite restricted harvest methods and limits since 1899, many WCT populations declined and by the 1960s, populations in several major drainages were on the brink of collapse. In response, fisheries biologists began investigating WCT population dynamics, life histories, and habitat requirements and developed evidence-based regulations and habitat restoration alternatives. Here we describe fluvial WCT case histories that illustrate how research and management collaborated to rebuild populations. The sustained and successful effort to restore fluvial WCT in Idaho offers insights to assist WCT recovery efforts elsewhere. Today, populations in many watersheds have been rehabilitated and WCT currently inhabit about 80% of their historical stream range. Despite continued threats, many Idaho WCT populations are relatively secure, provide unique recreational opportunities, and remain an important ecological, cultural, and economic resource.