bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new analytical model for the response curve in megavoltage photon beams of the radiochromic EBT3 films measured with flatbed scanners
Authors: Rodríguez César , García‐Pinto Diego , Martínez Luis Carlos , López‐Fernández Alfonso
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The aim of this work is to study a new analytical model which describes the dose–response curve in megavoltage photon beams of the radiochromic EBT3 film measured with two commercially available flatbed scanners. This model takes into account the different increase of the number of two types of absorbents in the film with absorbed dose and it allows to identify parameters that depend on the flatbed scanner and the film model, and parameters that exclusively depend on the production lot. In addition, the new model is also compared with other models commonly used in the literature in terms of its performance in reducing systematic calibration uncertainties.

Methods and materials

The new analytical model consists on a linear combination of two saturating exponential functions for every color channel. The exponents modeling the growing of each kind of absorbent are film model and scanner model‐dependent, but they do not depend on the manufacturing lot. The proposed model considers the different dose kinetics of each absorbent and the apparent effective behavior of one of the absorbents in the red color channel of the scanner.

The dose–response curve has been measured using EBT3 films, a percentage depth dose (PDD) calibration method in a dose range between 0.5 and 25 Gy, and two flatbed scanners: a Microtek 1000 XL and an EPSON 11000 XL. The PDD calibration method allows to obtain a dense collection of calibration points which have been fitted to the proposed response curve model and to other published models. The fit residuals were used to evaluate the performance of each model compared with the new analytical model.

Results

The model presented here does not introduce any systematic deviations up to the degree of accuracy reached in this work. The residual distribution is normally shaped and with lower variance than the distributions of the other published models. The model separates the parameters reflecting specific characteristics of the dosimetry system from the linear parameters which depend only on the production lot and are related to the relative abundance of each type of absorbent. The calibration uncertainty is reduced by a mean factor of two by using this model compared with the other studied models.

Conclusions

The proposed model reduces the calibration uncertainty related to systematic deviations introduced by the response curve. In addition, it separates parameters depending on the flatbed scanner and the film model from those depending on the production lot exclusively and therefore provides a better characterization of the dosimetry system and increases its reliability.
Strong and Tough Conductive Organo‐Hydrogels via Freeze‐Casting Assisted Solution Substitution
Authors: Dong Xinyu , Guo Xiao , Liu Quyang , Zhao Yijing , Qi Haobo , Zhai Wei
Published: May 2022

High strength, toughness, and conductivity are among the most sought‐after properties of flexible electronics. However, existing engineering materials find it difficult to achieve both excellent mechanical properties and high conductivity. To address this challenge, this study proposes a facile yet versatile strategy for preparing super‐tough conductive organo‐hydrogels via freeze‐casting assisted solution substitution (FASS). This FASS strategy enables the formation of organo‐hydrogels in one step with exquisite hierarchical anisotropic structures coupled with synergistic strengthening and toughening effects across multiple length scales. As an exemplary material, the prepared polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) organo‐hydrogel with solvent content up to 87 wt% exhibits a combination of high strength (6.5 MPa), high stretchability (1710% in strain), ultra‐high toughness (58.9 MJ m−3), as well as high ionic conductivity up to 6.5 S m−1 with excellent strain sensitivity. The exceptional combination of mechanical properties and conductivity makes the PVA organo‐hydrogel a promising flexible electronics material. In addition, the FASS strategy can also endow hydrogels with multi‐functions, including thermo‐healability, freezing tolerance and shape recoverability, and can be applied to various hydrogel materials, such as carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium alginate, and chitosan. Hence, this work provides an all‐around solution for preparing advanced strong and tough conductive soft materials for a multitude of applications.
Long‐Acting Protective Ocular Surface by Instilling Adhesive Dual‐Antiviral Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Xinyue , Chen Liangbo , Wang Xinling , Zhang Mengmeng , Yang Fengmin , Wu Feng , Liu Jinyao , Lu Lu , Pang Yan
Published: May 2022

The eye is susceptible to viral infections, causing severe ocular symptoms or even respiratory diseases. Methods capable of protecting the eye from external viral invasion in a long‐term and highly effective way are urgently needed but have been proved to be extremely challenging. Here, a strategy of forming a long‐acting protective ocular surface is described by instilling adhesive dual‐antiviral nanoparticles. Taking pseudotyped severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) as a model virus, antiviral agent‐loaded nanoparticles are coated with a “double‐lock” hybrid cell membrane abundant with integrin‐β1 and angiotensin converting enzyme II (ACE2). After instillation, the presence of integrin‐β1 endows coated nanoparticles with steady adhesion via specific binding to Arg‐Gly‐Asp sequence on the fibronectin of ocular epithelium, achieving durable retention on the ocular surface. In addition to loaded inhibitors, the exposure of ACE2 can trap SARS‐CoV‐2 and subsequently neutralize the associated spike protein, playing a dual antiviral effect of the resulting nanoparticles. Adhesive dual‐antiviral nanoparticles enabled by coating with a “double‐lock” hybrid cell membrane could be a versatile platform for topical long‐acting protection against viral infection of the eye.
Isolating Single and Few Atoms for Enhanced Catalysis
Authors: Chen Yang , Lin Jian , Jia Baohua , Wang Xiaodong , Jiang Shuaiyu , Ma Tianyi
Published: May 2022

Atomically dispersed metal catalysts have triggered great interest in the field of catalysis owing to their unique features. Isolated single or few metal atoms can be anchored on substrates via chemical bonding or space confinement to maximize atom utilization efficiency. The key challenge lies in precisely regulating the geometric and electronic structure of the active metal centers, thus significantly influencing the catalytic properties. Although several reviews have been published on the preparation, characterization, and application of single‐atom catalysts (SACs), the comprehensive understanding of SACs, dual‐atom catalysts (DACs), and atomic clusters has never been systematically summarized. Here, recent advances in the engineering of local environments of state‐of‐the‐art SACs, DACs, and atomic clusters for enhanced catalytic performance are highlighted. Firstly, various synthesis approaches for SACs, DACs, and atomic clusters are presented. Then, special attention is focused on the elucidation of local environments in terms of electronic state and coordination structure. Furthermore, a comprehensive summary of isolated single and few atoms for the applications of thermocatalysis, electrocatalysis, and photocatalysis is provided. Finally, the potential challenges and future opportunities in this emerging field are presented. This review will pave the way to regulate the microenvironment of the active site for boosting catalytic processes.
Conductive Ink with Circular Life Cycle for Printed Electronics
Authors: Kwon Junpyo , DelRe Christopher , Kang Philjun , Hall Aaron , Arnold Daniel , Jayapurna Ivan , Ma Le , Michalek Matthew , Ritchie Robert O. , Xu Ting
Published: May 2022

Electronic waste carries energetic costs and an environmental burden rivaling that of plastic waste due to the rarity and toxicity of the heavy‐metal components. Recyclable conductive composites are introduced for printed circuits formulated with polycaprolactone (PCL), conductive fillers, and enzyme/protectant nanoclusters. Circuits can be printed with flexibility (breaking strain ≈80%) and conductivity (≈2.1 × 104 S m−1). These composites are degraded at the end of life by immersion in warm water with programmable latency. Approximately 94% of the functional fillers can be recycled and reused with similar device performance. The printed circuits remain functional and degradable after shelf storage for at least 7 months at room temperature and one month of continuous operation under electrical voltage. The present studies provide composite design toward recyclable and easily disposable printed electronics for applications such as wearable electronics, biosensors, and soft robotics.
General Synthesis and Solution Processing of Metal–Organic Framework Nanofibers
Authors: Li Si‐Cheng , Hu Bi‐Cheng , Shang Li‐Mei , Ma Tao , Li Chao , Liang Hai‐Wei , Yu Shu‐Hong
Published: May 2022

By virtue of their extraordinarily high surface areas, ordered pore structures, various compositions, and rich functionality, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are of great interest in diverse fields such as gas separation, sensing, catalysis, energy, environment science, and biomedicine. However, the difficulty in processing MOF crystals and controlling the MOF superstructure is emerging as a critical issue in their application. Herein, it is reported that a robust template, i.e., nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC), can be used for the synthesis of MOF materials with 1D nanofiber morphology. NFC@MOF core–shell nanofibers with a uniform network structure and high aspect ratios can be prepared by use of this template. The small crystal size, flexibility, and good dispersity of the NFC@MOF nanofibers make it convenient for the macroscale assembly and solution processing of MOF materials. A proof‐of‐concept study is demonstrated wherein freestanding MOF nanofiber membranes represent good performance in applications of water treatment and heterogeneous catalysis reaction. This general synthesis and solution‐processing strategy may herald a new era in promoting the industrial application of MOFs.
A Scalable Laser‐Centric Fabrication of an Epidermal Cardiopulmonary Patch
Authors: Rachim Vega Pradana , Lee Jina , Kim Young‐Chan , Oh Joosung , Jeong Unyong , Park Sung‐Min
Published: May 2022

Recent advances in scalable fabrication methods based on printing technologies have improved the yield and lowered the cost of manufacturing epidermal sensors. However, modern technologies still require expensive multi‐bio‐ink raw materials. A laser‐centric fabrication method that realizes a cost‐effective, scalable, and streamlined fabrication process with easily used material and equipment is reported. The fabricated epidermal patch can quickly respond to the demands of personalized models. Here, the epidermal sensor patch is applied to continuous monitoring of the human cardiopulmonary system. The sensor performs conventional bio‐signal monitoring but is also extendible to other monitoring forms. The patch provides enhanced functions through its gas‐permeable and skin‐adhesive microporous layer and its stretchable, conformal, and biocompatible multimodal sensing layer. The utility of the proposed sensor patch in clinical diagnosis in a mobile healthcare environment is demonstrated in multiple bio‐signal‐morphology analyses.
Prediction of Henry's law constants by matrix completion
Authors: Hayer Nicolas , Jirasek Fabian , Hasse Hans
Published: May 2022

Methods for predicting Henry's law constants Hij are important as experimental data are scarce. We introduce a new machine learning approach for such predictions: matrix completion methods (MCMs) and demonstrate its applicability using a data base that contains experimental Hij values for 101 solutes i and 247 solvents j at 298 K. Data on Hij are only available for 2661 systems i + j. These Hij are stored in a 101 × 247 matrix; the task of the MCM is to predict the missing entries. First, an entirely data‐driven MCM is presented. Its predictive performance, evaluated using leave‐one‐out analysis, is similar to that of the Predictive Soave‐Redlich‐Kwong equation‐of‐state (PSRK‐EoS), which, however, cannot be applied to all studied systems. Furthermore, a hybrid of MCM and PSRK‐EoS is developed in a Bayesian framework, which yields an unprecedented performance for the prediction of Hij of the studied data set.
Controlling the Structure, Properties and Surface Reactivity of Clickable Azide‐Functionalized Au25(SR)18 Nanocluster Platforms Through Regioisomeric Ligand Modifications
Authors: Gunawardene Praveen N. , Martin Julia , Wong Jonathan M. , Ding Zhifeng , Corrigan John F. , Workentin Mark S.
Published: May 2022

To fine‐tune structure–property correlations of thiolate‐protected gold nanoclusters through post‐assembly surface modifications, we report the synthesis of the o, m, and p regioisomeric forms of the anionic azide‐functionalized [Au25(SCH2CH2‐C6H4‐N3)18]1− platform. They can undergo cluster–surface strain‐promoted alkyne–azide cycloaddition (CS‐SPAAC) chemistry with complementary strained‐alkynes. Although their optical properties are similar, the electrochemical properties appear to correlate with the position of the azido group. The ability to conduct CS‐SPAAC chemistry without altering the parent nanocluster structure is different as the isomeric form of the surface ligand is changed, with the [Au25(SCH2CH2‐p‐C6H4‐N3)18]1− isomer having the highest reaction rates, while the [Au25(SCH2CH2‐o‐C6H4‐N3)18]1− isomer is not stable following CS‐SPAAC. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction provide the molecular structure of the neutral forms of the three regioisomeric clusters, [Au25(SCH2CH2‐o/m/p‐C6H4‐N3]0, which illustrates correlated structural features of the central core as the position of the azido moiety is changed.
Impact of magnetic ionic liquids as catalystson the curing process of epoxy/anhydride system: Mechanistic investigation and dynamic‐mechanical analysis
Authors: Freitas Gabriel , Henriques Ruan R. , Calheiros Loan S. , Soares Bluma G.
Published: May 2022

Cyclic acid anhydride – based hardeners provide excellent physic‐mechanical and thermal properties to epoxy networks. However, the curing process takes place at relatively high temperature, thus limiting the applications as coatings and free‐heating devices. The present work describes for the first time the efficient catalytic action of imidazolium‐ and phosphonium‐ based ionic liquids (IL) bearing iron tetrachloride (FeCl4) as counteranion for the curing process of epoxy prepolymer (EP)/methyl tetrahydrophthalic anhydride (MTHPA) even at room temperature. Indeed, both differential scanning calorimetry and rheological analysis revealed that the addition of 5 phr of trihexyl (tetradecyl)‐phosphonium iron tetrachloride (P66614. FeCl4) resulted in faster curing process when compared with systems cured with conventional tertiary amine. The gelation at room temperature occurred before 24 h with this magnetic IL. Moreover, the systems catalyzed by P66614. FeCl4 presented higher glass transition temperature, higher storage modulus and higher crosslink density as indicated by dynamic‐mechanical analysis (DMA). A mechanism for the curing process was proposed based on DSC and Fourier transform infrared analysis. These results highlight the importance of magnetic ILs as catalysts for the curing process of EP/MTHPA system and open new avenues for applications of this system as a room temperature‐based curing system.
Cucurbit[10]uril‐mediated Supramolecular Assembly for Optically Tunable Dimers and Near White‐light Emissive Materials
Authors: Yang Mao‐Xia , Luo Yang , Zhang Wei , Lin Wen‐hao , He Jiao , Shan Pei‐hui , Tao Zhu , Xiao Xin
Published: May 2022

Cucurbit[10]uril (Q[10]), the cucurbit[n]uril with a large cavity, exhibits several new features in the development of the host‐guest complex. Thus, based on Q[10] and π‐conjugated molecule, oligo(p‐phenylenevinylene) derivative (OPVCOOH), the host‐guest complexes with three different interaction ratios of 1 : 2, 2 : 2, and 3 : 2 assemblies (Q[10]: guest) were fabricated. Depending on the host/guest ratio, the emission color of these complexes ranged from blue to yellow‐green. The extra Fe2+ coordinated with a bare carboxyl group of the Q[10]‐OPVCOOH (3 : 2) assembly, obstructing its rotaxane structure and forming Q[10]‐OPVCOOH‐Fe2+ assembly, which may be used as a coating for near‐white LED bulbs.
Package deals in multi‐issue bilateral bargaining
Authors: Rapoport Amnon , Seale Darryl A. , Kugler Tamar , Gisches Eyran J. , Jie Yun
Published: May 2022

This manuscript proposes a novel mechanism of multi‐issue bilateral bargaining under incomplete information. A single seller and single buyer negotiate the prices of multiple items by submitting offers and counteroffers in which the items are traded as a package deal. Trade occurs if the sum of the individual profits across all items is non‐negative. We experimentally compare a simultaneous protocol, where the two sets of price offers are submitted simultaneously, to a sequential protocol, where traders exchange offers and counteroffers with a deadline before submitting independently their final asks and bids. Our results show that the participants concluded more trades under the sequential protocol, that they shaved their price offers considerably, and that they often traded‐off price offers, sustaining negative profit on one or more of their items to increase their expected total profit.
Revisiting the effect of incentivization on cognitive reflection: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yechiam Eldad , Zeif Dana
Published: May 2022

The effect of performance‐based incentives on judgment biases is a controversial issue. A recent extensive meta‐analysis of Brañas‐Garza et al. (2019, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socec.2019.101455) found no effect of incentives on performance in the cognitive reflection test (CRT), a test commonly used for assessing heuristic versus deliberative judgments. We conducted a meta‐analysis of studies that directly compared an incentive versus no‐incentive conditions (n = 2836) and found a small positive effect of incentivization (Cohen's d = .21) on CRT performance. In addition, we re‐examined the Brañas‐Garza et al. (2019) dataset (n = 39,385), taking into consideration not only whether incentivization was used but also the nominal and fiscal size of the incentive. The results show that surprisingly when including only studies that used monetary incentives, the effect of incentivization and incentive size are significant, even when taking into consideration other aspects of the studies. The results thus suggest a small but robust effect of incentives on judgment biases.
HDL‐mediated reduction of cholesterol content inhibits the proliferation of prostate cancer cells induced by LDL: Role of ABCA1 and proteasome inhibition
Authors: Ossoli Alice , Giorgio Eleonora , Cetti Federica , Ruscica Massimiliano , Rabacchi Claudio , Tarugi Patrizia , Parini Paolo , Pedrelli Matteo , Gomaraschi Monica
Published: May 2022

High‐density lipoproteins (HDL) are well known for their atheroprotective function, mainly due to their ability to remove cell cholesterol and to exert antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities. Through the same mechanisms HDL could also affect the development and progression of tumors. Cancer cells need cholesterol to proliferate, especially in hormone‐dependent tumors, as prostate cancer (PCa). Aim of the study was to investigate the ability of HDL to modulate cholesterol content and metabolism in androgen receptor (AR)‐positive and AR‐null PCa cell lines and the consequences on cell proliferation. HDL inhibited colony formation of LNCaP and PC3 cells. HDL reduced cell cholesterol content and proliferation of LNCaP cells loaded with low‐density lipoproteins but were not effective on PC3 cells. Here, the expression of the ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) was markedly reduced due to proteasome degradation. Bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor, restored ABCA1 expression and HDL ability to promote cholesterol removal from PC3; consequently, HDL inhibited the proliferation of PC3 cells induced by LDL only after bortezomib pre‐treatment. In conclusion, the antiproliferative activity of HDL on AR‐positive and AR‐null PCa cells also rely on cholesterol removal, a process in which the ABCA1 transporter plays a key role.
Speaking up versus standing one's ground: The role of women's social networks in confronting street harassment
Authors: Iqbal Yeshim
Published: May 2022

Street harassment against women is an understudied form of gender‐based violence that severely limits women's safety and freedoms. One potential way of addressing street harassment is directly intervening against it, that is, the woman experiencing harassment confronts the perpetrator. However, this may be difficult to do in contexts where harassment is pervasive. In the context of a grassroots women's empowerment organisation in Dhaka, Bangladesh, I examined the relationship between women's positions in the social network structure of a group that espouses a norm of speaking up against street harassment, and their levels of displaying this behaviour. I hypothesised that an individual's network centrality would be associated with their engagement in behaviours that are prescribed by the group social norm; specifically, speaking up against street harassment. This hypothesis was not supported. However, exploratory analyses indicated that network centrality was a significant (negative) predictor of the participant's tendency to remove herself from the situation when harassed and a significant positive predictor of self‐efficacy for intervening against street harassment. This indicates that position in the network may play a role in confronting street harassment, though not through originally hypothesised mechanisms. Theoretical and pragmatic implications of these findings for engaging in intervention against street harassment are discussed.
Nectar Sugar Composition, Standing Nectar Crop and Floral Visitor Diversity of Three Endemic Plant Species from Western Ghats Biodiversity Hot‐Spot of India
Authors: Pachpor Tejaswini , Sonne Mrunalini , Bhatt Alap , Parkar Kshitija , Shahane Sneha , Mestry Pratiksha , Kulkarni Shivani , Ogale Hemant , Patwardhan Ankur
Published: May 2022

Plant insect interactions are governed by various factors. Nectar availability and floral nectar composition play a significant role in deciding the pollinator pool that visits a particular plant species. This study investigates nectar sugar composition and volume from three endemic species from Western Ghats of India viz. Canthium dicoccum (Gaertn.) Teijsm. & Binn., Ligustrum perrottetii A. DC., and Wendlandia thyrsoidea (Roth) Steud., in their natural habitats. Our results demonstrate intraspecific variation in nectar sugar composition in these endemic plant species. Fructose, mannose and glucose sugars were found in the nectar of all three species. In addition to these three, arabinose was found in Ligustrum and sucrose in Canthium. Nectar volume showed variations in bagged and unbagged conditions. The highest average nectar quantity was found in Canthium (1.27 μl/flower), followed by Ligustrum (0. 31 μl/flower), and Wendlandia (0.14 μl/flower). Floral visitor diversity with a specific emphasis on butterflies showed the highest number of visitors on Ligustrum i. e., 42 out of 45 total butterfly species across all three plant species. This is the first report of standing nectar crop and nectar‐sugar composition data compiled for these plant species.
The Effect of Ru Precursor and Support on the Hydrogenation of Aromatic Aldehydes/Ketones to Alcohols
Authors: Chaudhari Chandan , Sato Katsutoshi , Miyahara Shin‐ichiro , Yamamoto Tomokazu , Toriyama Takaaki , Matsumura Syo , Kusuda Kohei , Kitagawa Hiroshi , Nagaoka Katsutoshi
Published: May 2022

Supported Ru catalysts were prepared by using different Ru precursors and examined for the hydrogenation of benzaldehyde to CHM. The catalyst prepared from Ru3(CO)12 precursor and HT support exhibited high yield of CHM. Moderate acidic and basic nature of HT was favourable to control the selectivity for CHM. The physicochemical properties analysis revealed that highly dispersed Ru nanoparticles were effective for the hydrogenation of benzaldehyde. RuCO/HT catalyst was tolerant to different functional groups and was stable until 7th cycle of recycle study.
Boosting Synergy of Polymetal Phosphides by Core‐Shell Design of Prussian Blue Analogue Precursors as Electrocatalysts for Water Splitting
Authors: Ying Qi , Ni Shaofeng , Zhang Hongyu , Yu Fengjiao , Yang Yang
Published: May 2022

Oxygen and hydrogen evolution reactions (OER and HER) are crucial for electrochemical water splitting, which is however hindered by the high cost of noble metal catalysts. Here, we present that by designing the core‐shell distribution of Prussian blue analogues, NiFe‐P@CoFe‐P nanocubes with various shell‐thickness are obtained to unlock the synergy of metal phosphides. The NiFe‐P@CoFe‐P nanocubes display a low overpotential of 248 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and great stability that outperform commercial RuO2 catalyst towards OER. We find that the OER and HER activity of NiFe‐P@CoFe‐P are dependent on the shell thickness, suggesting both the surface and sublayers determine the catalytic performance. Moreover, we demonstrate the water splitting under alkaline condition in an H‐cell powered by commercial photovoltaics using NiFe‐P@CoFe‐P catalyst, which is a promising approach for the conversion of solar energy.
Covalently Immobilized 2‐Deoxyribose‐5‐phosphate Aldolase (DERA) for Biocatalysis in Flow: Utilization of the 3‐Hydroxyaldehyde Intermediate in Reaction Cascades
Authors: Hindges née Bramski Julia , Döbber Johannes , Hayes Marc R. , Classen Thomas , Pohl Martina , Pietruszka Jörg
Published: May 2022

C−C bond forming enzymes, such as 2‐deoxyribose‐5‐phosphate aldolase (DERA), are an important class of enzymes in synthesis. The use of DERA, with its reaction routes to the double aldol product, is an established method for producing statin side chains in industry. Herein, the selective synthesis of 3‐hydroxyaldehydes as single aldol products of DERA is presented. Successful covalent immobilization of a suitable Escherichia coli (Ec) DERA variants with C47M and C47V exchanges, respectively, enabled their use in continuous synthesis. Precise reaction control using flow chemistry made the selective formation of 3‐hydroxyoctanal from hexanal possible. For optimization, a systematic approach of design of experiment (DoE) was used, resulting in 90 % conversion. Furthermore, five two‐step reaction systems have been established to scavenge the reactive single aldol product combining biocatalysis in flow mode and a consecutive chemical reactions step either in flow (continuous flow mode) or in batch (semi‐continuous flow mode).
Multiscale modelling of multizone gas phase propylene (co)polymerization reactors—A comprehensive review
Authors: Kulajanpeng Kusuma , Sheibat‐Othman Nida , Tanthapanichakoon Wiwut , McKenna Timothy F. L.
Published: May 2022

Catalysts and polymerization processes have evolved over the years. Such significant developments have allowed producers to broaden the range of polymer microstructure and process productivity, thereby making it possible to offer a wide range of end‐use properties at a reasonably low cost. However, these advantages in catalyst performance and reactor operation require that we understand as much as possible about reactor operation in the broadest sense. In addition to the fundamental experimental study of polymer chemistry, this means that one needs to develop complete, robust process models. The present paper provides a rapid overview of recent developments in various gas phase propylene (co)polymerization reactors in use today, concentrating on multizone gas phase polypropylene reactors: that is, multizone circulating reactor, fluidized bed reactor with internal circulation, fluidized bed reactor with external circulation, and horizontal stirred bed reactor. We then concentrate on the advances in multiscale modelling of gas phase propylene (co)polymerization reactors, from microscale kinetics at the active sites, to the mesoscale, including physical transport and thermodynamic modelling at the single‐particle level and its boundary layer, up to the macroscale reactor modelling. A systematic guideline used for the selection of appropriate thermodynamic models is proposed for gas phase olefin polymerization processes. Finally, current challenges and remaining issues related with the development of mathematical multiscale modelling are addressed.
Protocol of safe vaccination against COVID‐19 in patients with high risk of allergic reactions
Authors: Romantowski Jan , Kruszewski Jerzy , Solarski Oskar , Bant Andrzej , Chciałowski Andrzej , Pietrzyk Ilona , Sańpruch Patrycja , Górska Aleksandra , Chełmińska Marta , Knurowska Agata , Gawinowska Marika , Jassem Ewa , Niedoszytko Marek
Published: May 2022

Background

Sars‐CoV‐2 infections are hazardous, especially to the elderly and patients with comorbidities. With no efficient treatment available, newly developed vaccines are the only way to change the course of the pandemic. However, reports of allergic reactions resulted in some patients and practicing physicians being concerned about the safety of vaccine administration, particularly in people with severe anaphylactic reactions to multiple or unknown factors in their medical history.

This study aimed to develop an allergic work‐up protocol based on skin prick tests (SPT), intradermal testing (IDT) and intramuscular provocations, and desensitisation which may contribute to diagnosis and management of anti‐COVID‐19 vaccine allergy.

Methods

Two hundred and eighty‐five patients were enrolled. Two hundred and five of them entered the study based on severe anaphylactic reaction to unknown or multiple factors in their medical history which disqualified them for standard treatment. Another 80 patients were enrolled after developing an allergic reaction to the first dose of one such vaccine. In all subjects, SPT and IDT were performed. Serum tryptase was assessed in 79 patients randomly chosen from the study group.

Results

Two hundred and seventy‐seven patients with negative tests were given a vaccine without complications. Seven patients had positive skin tests. In two cases, tests confirmed Comirnaty allergy, while the other five confirmed solely skin sensitisation with no exposure prior to the study. Six patients with positive tests received titrated challenge using desensitisation protocol with a reasonable tolerance. One patient did not consent to desensitisation and one patient resigned despite negative tests. Overall, 283 (99%) patients were vaccinated using this newly developed protocol. Patients with adverse reactions to the first dose of the vaccine before the study had a significantly lower basal serum tryptase concentration (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Skin tests with anti‐COVID‐19 vaccines are a useful tool in the vaccination protocol. This protocol enables safe immunisation of high‐allergy‐risk patients even in cases of positive skin tests.
Macroscale connections of the mouse lateral preoptic area and anterior lateral hypothalamic area
Authors: Hahn Joel D. , Gao Lei , Boesen Tyler , Gou Lin , Hintiryan Houri , Dong Hong‐Wei
Published: May 2022

The macroscale neuronal connections of the lateral preoptic area (LPO) and the caudally adjacent lateral hypothalamic area anterior region (LHAa) were investigated in mice by anterograde and retrograde axonal tracing. Both hypothalamic regions are highly and diversely connected, with connections to >200 gray matter regions spanning the forebrain, midbrain, and rhombicbrain. Intrahypothalamic connections predominate, followed by connections with the cerebral cortex and cerebral nuclei. A similar overall pattern of LPO and LHAa connections contrasts with substantial differences between their input and output connections. Strongest connections include outputs to the lateral habenula, medial septal and diagonal band nuclei, and inputs from rostral and caudal lateral septal nuclei; however, numerous additional robust connections were also observed. The results are discussed in relation to a current model for the mammalian forebrain network that associates LPO and LHAa with a range of functional roles, including reward prediction, innate survival behaviors (including integrated somatomotor and physiological control), and affect. The present data suggest a broad and intricate role for LPO and LHAa in behavioral control, similar in that regard to previously investigated LHA regions, contributing to the finely tuned sensory‐motor integration that is necessary for behavioral guidance supporting survival and reproduction.
Oral care tablet containing kiwifruit powder affects tongue coating microbiome
Authors: Fukui Makoto , Asakuma Hiroki , Horiuchi Hiroko , Takii Hiroshi , Yoshioka Masami , Hinode Daisuke
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Tongue coating, a kind of biofilm formed on the tongue dorsum, is the cause of various clinical conditions, such as oral halitosis and periodontal diseases, because Fusobacterium nucleatum acts as a bridge between other oral bacteria and periodontopathogenic bacteria in biofilm formation. Our previous clinical study revealed that taking oral care tablets containing kiwifruit powder significantly reduced not only tongue‐coating index and volatile sulfur compounds but also total bacteria and F. nucleatum in tongue coating. In this study, we analyzed the microbiome of tongue coating samples obtained before and after oral care tablets intake to clarify whether this tablet is a useful tool for daily tongue care.

Methods

Thirty‐two healthy young adults were enrolled, and a crossover clinical trial was conducted. We instructed subjects to remove tongue coating by tongue brush for intervention I, to keep the oral care tablet containing kiwifruit powder on the tongue dorsum and to let it dissolve naturally for intervention II. Microbial DNA was isolated from the collected tongue coating samples in each subject, then 16S rRNA next‐generation sequencing, operational taxonomic unit clustering, and statistical analysis were performed.

Results

The microbiome analysis revealed that the oral care tablet in intervention II prompted a significant change in the tongue microbiota composition, a significant reduction in the relative abundance of Prevotella and Porphyromonas, and an increase in Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio when compared to that in intervention I.

Conclusion

These results suggested that the oral care tablet might contribute to the improvement of the oral condition due to its good influence on the tongue coating microbiome.
Gebäude‐Ökobilanzen im Wandel der Zeit
Authors: Nisse Juliane , Holm Andreas
Published: May 2022

Das Bauen heute ist geprägt von einer Vielzahl von Anforderungen, Nachweisen und Pflichten. Während noch bis vor kurzer Zeit v. a. statische und bauphysikalische Anforderungen an Gebäude formuliert wurden, werden in zunehmendem Maße Anforderungen zur Begrenzung von CO2‐Emissionen oder zur Reduzierung der grauen Energie gestellt, welche klimapolitisch eine immer größere Rolle spielen. Mit der Einführung des 1. Leitfadens für Nachhaltiges Bauen im Jahr 2001 war das nachhaltige Bauen eine Königsdisziplin und konnte über entsprechende Nachhaltigkeitszertifikate den Wert einer nachhaltigen Immobilie steigern. Heute wird Nachhaltigkeit von Gebäuden zunehmend als Standard angesehen und in Zukunft über Gesetze und/oder Verordnungen auch als ein solcher eingefordert werden. Wie sich der Stellenwert des nachhaltigen und v. a. des ökologischen Bauens sowie die Qualität der Ökobilanzdaten für Bauprodukte ebenso wie die Bewertungs‐ und Bilanzierungsmethodik für die Ökobilanzierung im Laufe der Zeit verändert haben, wird in diesem Aufsatz näher erörtert.
Roadmap für eine treibhausgasneutrale Porenbetonindustrie in Europa
Authors: Kreft Oliver , Fudge Cliff , Walczak Paweł
Published: May 2022

Der Gebäude‐ und Bausektor ist für einen erheblichen Teil der europäischen Treibhausgasemissionen verantwortlich. Diese Roadmap beschreibt, wie die europäische Porenbetonindustrie bis zum Jahr 2050 klimaneutral werden kann. Mit seiner Eigenschaft, als CO2‐Senke zu fungieren, hat Porenbeton – über Klimaneutralität hinaus – das Potenzial, CO2‐negativ zu werden. Das bedeutet, dass dieser Baustoff in seinem Lebenszyklus der Atmosphäre mehr Kohlenstoff entzieht, als bei Herstellung, Transport, Nutzung und Nachnutzung freigesetzt wurde. Die Szenarioentwicklung für das Jahr 2050 erfolgte auf Basis technischer Maßnahmen zur Effizienzoptimierung, der Umstellung von fossilen auf erneuerbare Energieträger sowie einer aktuellen Lebenszyklusanalyse für ein repräsentatives Porenbetonprodukt. Der überwiegende Anteil der CO2‐Emissionen im Lebenszyklus von Porenbeton entsteht nicht in der Produktion von Porenbeton selbst, sondern bei der Herstellung der Ausgangsstoffe Zement und Kalk. Aus diesem Grund orientiert sich die vorliegende Roadmap eng an den Dekarbonisierungspfaden europäischer Herstellerverbände der Zement‐ und Kalkindustrie. Mit dieser Roadmap verpflichten sich der Europäische Porenbetonverband (European Autoclaved Aerated Concrete Association, EAACA) und seine Mitglieder zur Erreichung der CO2‐Neutralität ihrer Produkte und zur Unterstützung bei der Verwirklichung eines klimaneutralen Europas.
Eating disorders and the nine symptoms of borderline personality disorder: A systematic review and series of meta‐analyses
Authors: Miller Alexia E. , Trolio Vittoria , Halicki‐Asakawa Amané , Racine Sarah E.
Published: May 2022

Objective

Eating disorders and borderline personality disorder have high rates of comorbidity. However, the extent to which individual BPD symptoms are elevated in patients with EDs is largely unknown. Meta‐analyses examined: (1) which of the nine BPD symptoms are especially elevated in individuals with versus without EDs, (2) whether particular ED subtypes have elevated levels of certain BPD symptoms, and (3) which BPD symptoms remain unstudied/understudied in relation to EDs.

Methods

We performed nine separate meta‐analyses (one for each BPD symptom) to compare levels of symptoms in patients with EDs versus healthy controls. A total of 122 studies (range = 4–34 studies across symptoms) were included.

Results

Affective instability was the BPD symptom most elevated, while anger was the BPD symptom least elevated, in patients with EDs compared to controls. When comparing effect sizes across ED subtypes, anorexia nervosa binge‐eating/purging subtype had the largest effect sizes for the greatest number of BPD symptoms, while effect sizes for AN restrictive subtype were not significantly larger than those of other EDs for any BPD symptom. The least studied BPD symptoms were identity disturbance and interpersonal difficulties.

Discussion

These meta‐analyses suggest that certain symptoms of BPD play a more prominent role in the comorbidity between BPD and EDs than others. Targeting affective instability when treating cases of comorbid ED and BPD may be especially likely to ameliorate the negative outcomes related to this comorbidity. Future research should further investigate identity disturbance and interpersonal difficulties in the context of EDs.

Public Significance

Having an eating disorder and borderline personality disorder is a common comorbidity associated with a severe clinical presentation. BPD is characterized by nine distinct symptoms. This research examined levels of individual BPD symptoms in patients with versus without EDs. Findings can guide researchers and clinicians towards studying and treating symptoms that may be most relevant for BPD‐ED comorbidity and in turn, improve outcomes for these patients.
Home is where the hollow is: Revealing vertebrate tree hollow user biodiversity with eDNA metabarcoding
Authors: Newton Joshua P. , Bateman Philip W. , Heydenrych Matthew J. , Mousavi‐Derazmahalleh Mahsa , Nevill Paul
Published: May 2022

Tree hollows are essential for many vertebrate species, providing both nesting sites and shelter. Globally, old hollow‐bearing trees are in decline resulting in many dependent species being under threat. It is, therefore, imperative that vital hollow‐bearing trees are preserved, but it is logistically difficult to rapidly determine which hollows are being used and by which taxa. Here, we investigate the efficacy of eDNA metabarcoding as a survey tool for vertebrate hollow users. We compared the identity and richness of hollow‐inhabiting vertebrate taxa using eDNA metabarcoding of both sediment from the tree hollows, and material collected using roller swabs. Samples (n = 138) were collected from hollow‐bearing tuart trees (Eucalyptus gomphocephala; N = 28), within both an urban remnant and a relatively undisturbed forested area of South‐West Western Australia. We detected a wide range of vertebrate taxa, including cryptic species such as the brush‐tailed phascogale (Phascogale tapoatafa), while also providing ecologically informative data, such as hollow use by invasive Rainbow Lorikeet (Trichoglossus moluccanus) within the study areas. Our results showed variation in the species detected between methods, with the roller swab method detecting a greater number of species and a higher mean species richness per sample than hollow sediment did. The species detected from both methods did not perfectly overlap, highlighting the value of using multiple methods or substrates to detect a greater number of taxa. Our results suggest eDNA metabarcoding from tree hollow samples offers a sensitive and resource‐efficient method of monitoring vertebrate hollow users, if enough hollows are sampled. This provides not only a broad biodiversity assessment tool, but also an effective method for detecting taxa that may be elusive using other methods.
Intravenous iron supplement for iron deficiency in patients with severe aortic stenosis scheduled for transcatheter aortic valve implantation: results of the IIISAS randomised trial
Authors: Kvaslerud Anette B. , Bardan Sara , Andresen Kristoffer , Kløve Sophie F. , Fagerland Morten W. , Edvardsen Thor , Gullestad Lars , Broch Kaspar
Published: May 2022

Aims

The aim of this trial was to evaluate whether intravenous iron could provide benefit beyond transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in iron‐deficient patients with severe aortic stenosis.

Methods and results

In this randomised, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, single‐centre trial, we enrolled patients with severe aortic stenosis and iron deficiency (defined as ferritin <100 µg/L, or 100–299 µg/L with a transferrin saturation <20%) who were evaluated for TAVI. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive intravenous ferric derisomaltose or placebo ∼3 months before TAVI. The primary endpoint was the between‐group, baseline‐adjusted 6‐min walk distance measured 3 months after TAVI. Secondary outcomes included quality of life, iron stores, hand grip strength, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, and safety. Between January 2020 and September 2021, we randomised 74 patients to ferric derisomaltose and 75 patients to placebo. The modified intention‐to‐treat population comprised the 104 patients who completed the 6‐min walk test at baseline and 3 months after successful TAVI. Iron stores were restored in 76% of the patients allocated to iron and 13% of the patients allocated to placebo (p < 0.001). There was no difference in the baseline‐adjusted 6‐min walk distance between the two treatment arms (p = 0.82). The number of serious adverse events, quality of life, hand grip strength, and NYHA class did not differ between the treatment arms.

Conclusion

Treatment with intravenous iron did not provide clinical benefit beyond TAVI in iron‐deficient patients with severe aortic stenosis.

Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04206228.
A D–π–A Organic Dye as a Passivator to Effectively Regulate the Performance of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Tian , Yang Xichuan , Zhang Li , Deng Zijian , Yang Kaiyuan , Cui Haiyang , Hou Qingning , Ji Wenxi
Published: May 2022

The lattice defects in perovskite solar cells comprising polycrystalline films affect the cell's humidity stability and photovoltaic performance. Herein, a donor–pi–acceptor organic dye molecule (ZT001) containing a carboxyl group on the acceptor moiety and long alkyl chains on the donor moiety is synthesized and used as an effective passivator in perovskite solar cells. It is revealed in the results that the carboxyl group of ZT001 successfully passivates the film defects by forming coordination with uncoordinated Pb2+, and the humidity stability of the device is improved and maintained above 80% of the original photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE). Therefore, ZT001‐passivated perovskite devices exhibit a superior PCE of 20.6% compared with the PCE of unpassivated devices (19.5%).
An investigation comprising the effect of soda and bleaching sequences on suitability of sorghum bagasse as an alternative fiber in papermaking
Authors: Said Abd El Aziz A. , Aly Aref A. M. , Mustafa Atef H. , Ahmed Hazem S.
Published: May 2022

The aim of this work is to evaluate the potency of sorghum stalks as an alternative fiber for pulp and papermaking for the first time in Egypt. Sorghum Kraft pulp was bleached using D0EOD1 sequences to achieve a final high brightness and suitable mechanical strength. The results revealed that pulping alkali of 14% Na2O concentration is the best choice. In addition, this percentage preserved high pulp brightness with a value of 86 ISO together with low fiber degradation besides imparting a high mechanical strength to the product. So, sorghum bagasse can be utilized as an important available low‐cost non‐wood fiber for paper industry.
Ultralow loading FeCoNi alloy nanoparticles decorated carbon mat for hydrogen peroxide reduction reaction and its application in direct ethylene glycol fuel cells
Authors: Pan Zhefei , Zhang Zhewei , Tahir Abdullah , Esan Oladapo Christopher , Liu Xinhua , Wang Huizhi , An Liang
Published: May 2022

Hydrogen peroxide has been an attractive oxidant in direct liquid fuel cells. However, hydrogen peroxide reduction reaction heavily relies on noble metal‐based electrocatalysts. In this work, a carbon mat decorated with FeCoNi alloy nanoparticles (namely FeCoNi/CM) of an ultralow loading, that is, 0.146 mg cm−2, for hydrogen peroxide reduction is designed, fabricated, and applied as a free‐standing cathode in a passive alkaline‐acid direct ethylene glycol fuel cell. A piece of Pd/C coated carbon cloth (1.0 mg cm−2) is used as the anode and a pre‐treated Nafion 211 membrane as the membrane. This passive fuel cell yields a peak power density of 17.4 mW cm−2 at 23°C, which is comparable to an Au/C‐based cathode (17.0 mW cm−2). The new electrode shows significantly enhanced mass transfer and allows a current density of 60.0 mA cm−2, which is 1.5 times the value achieved with the Au/C‐based cathode. This can be attributed to the much thinner thickness of FeCoNi/CM (50.0 μm) than Au/C‐based cathode (380.0 μm). With the thinner thickness, the oxygen derived from the self‐decomposition of hydrogen peroxide can be effectively removed from the cathode, which is beneficial for the transport of hydrogen peroxide to the catalyst surface. Moreover, with the use of this free‐standing cathode, the passive fuel cell attains a continuous operation at a constant discharging current of 20.0 mA for more than 9 h, exceeding the 5 h achieved with the Au/C‐based cathode at the same discharging current density.