bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of lumbar spinal fusion utilizing recombinant human platelet derived growth factor‐B chain homodimer (rhPDGF‐BB) combined with a bovine collagen/β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) matrix in an ovine model
Authors: Gadomski Benjamin C. , Labus Kevin M. , Puttlitz Christian M. , McGilvray Kirk C. , Regan Daniel P. , Nelson Brad , Seim Howard B. , Easley Jeremiah T.
Published: July 2021

Background context

While the clinical effectiveness of recombinant human Platelet Derived Growth Factor‐B chain homodimer combined with collagen and β‐tricalcium phosphate (rhPDGF‐BB + collagen/β‐TCP) treatment for indications involving hindfoot and ankle is well‐established, it is not approved for use in spinal interbody fusion, and the use of autograft remains the gold standard.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of rhPDGF‐BB + collagen/β‐TCP treatment on lumbar spine interbody fusion in an ovine model to those of autograft bone and collagen/β‐TCP treatments using biomechanical, radiographic, and histological assessment techniques.

Study design

Thirty‐two skeletally mature Columbian Rambouillet sheep were used to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of rhPDGF‐BB + collagen/β‐TCP matrix in a lumbar spinal fusion model. Interbody polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cages contained either autograft, rhPDGF‐BB + collagen/β‐TCP, collagen/β‐TCP matrix, or left empty.

Methods

Animals were sacrificed 8‐ or 16‐weeks post‐surgery. Spinal fusion was evaluated via post‐sacrifice biomechanical, micro‐computed tomography (μCT), and histological analysis. Outcomes were statistically compared using a two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with an alpha value of 0.05 and a Tukey post‐hoc test.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between groups within treatment timepoints for flexion‐extension, lateral bending, or axial rotation range of motion, neutral zone, neutral zone stiffness, or elastic zone stiffness. μCT bone volume fraction was significantly greater between treatment groups independent of timepoint where Autograft and rhPDGF‐BB + collagen/β‐TCP treatments demonstrated significantly greater bone volume fraction as compared to collagen/β‐TCP (P = .026 and P = .038, respectively) and Empty cage treatments (P = .002 and P = .003, respectively). μCT mean bone density fraction was most improved in rhPDGF‐BB + collagen/β‐TCP specimens at the 8 week and 16‐week timepoints as compared to all other treatment groups. There were no statistically significant differences in histomorphometric measurements of bone, soft tissue, or empty space between rhPDGF‐BB + collagen/β‐TCP and autograft treatments.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that the use of rhPDGF‐BB combined with collagen/β‐TCP promotes spinal fusion comparable to that of autograft bone.

Clinical significance

The data indicate that rhPDGF‐BB combined with collagen/β‐TCP promotes spinal fusion comparably to autograft bone treatment and may offer a viable alternative in large animal spinal fusion. Future prospective clinical studies are necessary to fully understand the role of rhPDGF‐BB combined with collagen/β‐TCP in human spinal fusion healing.
Quantitative analysis of nine isoflavones in traditional Chinese medicines using mixed micellar liquid chromatography containing sodium dodecylsulfate/β‐cyclodextrin supramolecular amphiphiles
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhang Yufei , Ma Haixia , Yang Fatang , Duan Tianjiao , Zhang Yuhui , Dong Yuming
Published: July 2021

Isoflavone is one of the phytoestrogens that have estrogenic effects, so it is usually served as an active ingredient for quality control of traditional Chinese medicines rich in isoflavones. Nine isoflavones commonly found in traditional Chinese medicines were separated in 30 min using mixed micellar liquid chromatography. The mobile phase consisted of 0.08 M sodium dodecylsulfate and 6.05 mM β‐cyclodextrin:methanol (87:13, v/v) at pH 3 and eluted isocratically at 1 mL/min through a C18 column. In this study, we systematically optimized the chromatographic conditions including the pH, the composition and concentration of surfactants, the type and ratio of organic solvents, and column temperature. The method was validated according to the International Council for Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use guidelines. There is no report using micellar liquid chromatography to detect isoflavones, and the optimized method has been successfully applied to quantify isoflavones in red clover and Radix Puerariae. This method is efficient, cheap, and convenient. Finally, we verified the existence of supramolecular amphiphilic vesicles in the mobile phase by transmission electron microscopy to explain the increased chromatographic efficiency.
Histopathology of Parotid Pleomorphic Adenomas: A “Pleomorphic Approach” to a Demanding Lesion
Authors: Mantsopoulos Konstantinos , Thimsen Vivian , Gostian Antoniu‐Oreste , Müller Sarina K. , Sievert Matti , Iro Ann‐Kristin , Agaimy Abbas , Iro Heinrich
Published: July 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

The aim of this study was to identify potential associations between epidemiologic, morphologic, and histopathologic features in pleomorphic adenomas (PAs) of the parotid gland in order to extract information about the natural course and biologic behavior of these lesions on the basis of a single‐center series of 845 cases within a period of 15 years.

Study Design

Retrospective study in a tertiary academic center.

Methods

For this study, an experienced head and neck pathologist critically re‐evaluated the histological slides of the pathological specimens of all patients who underwent a parotidectomy for PA of the parotid gland between 2006 and 2020.

Results

A total of 845 cases made up our study sample. Our analysis showed a statistically significant association of the histologic subtype with younger age (P = .001) and maximal diameter (P = .044), with the hypocellular type being encountered more often in younger patients and in smaller lesions. The same subtype was significantly associated with an incomplete capsule (P = .001), pseudopodia (P = .006), and satellite nodules (P = .001). An incomplete capsule was associated with the presence of pseudopodia (P = .001) and satellite nodules (P = .001).

Conclusion

It seems that various histologic subtypes have different capsule‐producing properties. Apparently, over the course of time, tumor material builds a finger‐like projection still inside the capsule, separates itself from the parenchyma with fibrous tissue still remaining enclosed within the capsule (pseudopodium), slowly penetrates the capsule (incomplete capsule), and leaves the main lesion taking a part of the capsule with it (satellite nodules). Laryngoscope, 132:73–77, 2022
How aesthetic features convey the concept of brand premiumness
Authors: Pombo Maria , Velasco Carlos
Published: July 2021

When do aesthetic properties convey the concept of premiumness? Is symmetry tied to the perception of premiumness due to symmetry's evolutionary association to quality, an association not present with other aesthetic features like curvature? Usually, symmetry and curvature are preferred features. However, preference itself may not suffice to evoke premiumness. With this in mind, we predicted that symmetry (vs. asymmetry) and high(vs. low) product quality would both increase the perception of premiumness of a product while curvature (curved vs. angular) would only do so when it aligned with product quality. We conducted two preliminary exploratory experiments and four preregistered experiments in which we manipulated product quality, symmetry, and curvature of product packaging and measured preference and premiumness perception. We also conducted four additional experiments using a different product category to assess the generalizability of our results. We found that while both symmetry and curvature affect preference, only symmetry affects premiumness perception. Importantly, our results indicate that the extent to which aesthetic features convey brand premiumness can be product‐specific. We suggest a theoretical model on when visual aesthetic properties convey premiumness. Overall, our study informs how subtle aesthetic elements play a role in value perception, something which firms can capitalize on.
Association of genetic variants of FBXO32 and FOXO6 in the FOXO pathway with breast cancer risk
Authors: Wang Haijiao , Liu Hongliang , Zhao Lingling , Luo Sheng , Akinyemiju Tomi , Hwang Shelley , Yue Ying , Wei Qingyi
Published: July 2021

Forkhead box class O (FOXO) transcription factors play a pivotal role in regulating a variety of biological processes, including organismal development, cell signaling, cell metabolism, and tumorigenesis. Therefore, we hypothesize that genetic variants in FOXO pathway genes are associated with breast cancer (BC) risk. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a large meta‐analysis using 14 published genome‐wide association study (GWAS) data sets in the Discovery, Biology, and Risk of Inherited Variants in Breast Cancer (DRIVE) study. We assessed associations between 5214 (365 genotyped in DRIVE and 4849 imputed) common single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 55 FOXO pathway genes and BC risk. After multiple comparison corrections by the Bayesian false‐discovery probability method, we found five SNPs to be significantly associated with BC risk. In stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis with adjustment for age, principal components, and previously published SNPs in the same data set, three independent SNPs (i.e., FBXO32 rs10093411 A>G, FOXO6 rs61229336 C>T, and FBXO32 rs62521280 C>T) remained to be significantly associated with BC risk (p = 0.0008, 0.0011, and 0.0017, respectively). Additional expression quantitative trait loci analysis revealed that the FBXO32 rs62521280 T allele was associated with decreased messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels in breast tissue, while the FOXO6 rs61229336 T allele was found to be associated with decreased mRNA expression levels in the whole blood cells. Once replicated by other investigators, these genetic variants may serve as new biomarkers for BC risk.
Novel homozygous protein‐truncating mutation of BBS9 identified in a Chinese consanguineous family with Bardet–Biedl syndrome
Authors: Tang Hai‐Yan , Xie Fen , Dai Ru‐Chun , Shi Xiao‐Liu
Published: July 2021

Background

Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare and genetically heterogeneous disease with a broad spectrum of clinical features, including but not limited to rod‐cone dystrophy, postaxial polydactyly, central obesity, intellectual disability, hypogonadism, and renal dysfunction. Twenty‐one BBS (Bardet–Biedl syndrome) genes have been identified to date. There is minimal mutation information on BBS in Chinese populations and the exact pathogenic mechanism of the null mutation of BBS9 remains unknown.

Methods

A patient from a Chinese consanguineous family presented with polydactyly, truncal obesity, intellectual disability, genital anomaly, and retinitis pigmentosa was analyzed in this study. Blood DNA and RNA were extracted from the blood of the proband and the parents. The proband was screened for mutations by whole‐exome sequencing. The likely pathogenic mutation detected in the proband was further confirmed by the Sanger sequence in the family. Real‐time RT‐PCR was used to measure the expression of BBS9 in the proband and the control.

Results

Targeted exome sequencing identified a novel homozygous null mutation (NM_198428.3: c.445C>T) in the 6th exon of the BBS9 gene in the proband and Sanger sequencing was used to validate the heterozygosity in the parents. The mutation was validated to induce the nonsense‐mediated decay of BBS9 messenger RNAs by real‐time RT‐PCR.

Conclusions

The molecular findings helped to explain the clinical manifestations. The novel homozygous pathogenic variation expanded the mutational spectrum of the BBS9 gene in the Chinese population and will help to understand the pathogenic mechanism of BBS9 null mutation.
Tolerance to geometrical inaccuracies in CBCT systems: A comprehensive study
Authors: Abella Monica , Martinez Cristobal , Garcia Ines , Moreno Patricia , De Molina Claudia , Desco Manuel
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The last decades have seen the consolidation of the cone‐beam CT (CBCT) technology, which is nowadays widely used for different applications such as micro‐CT for small animals, mammography, dentistry, or surgical procedures. Some CBCT systems may suffer mechanical strains due to the heavy load of the x‐ray tube. This fact, together with tolerances in the manufacturing process, lead to different types of undesirable effects in the reconstructed image unless they are properly accounted for during the reconstruction. To obtain good quality images, it is necessary to have a complete characterization of the system geometry including the angular position of the gantry, the source–object and detector–object distances, and the position and pose of the detector. These parameters can be obtained through a calibration process done periodically, depending on the stability of the system geometry. To the best of our knowledge, there are no comprehensive works studying the effect of inaccuracies in the geometrical calibration of CBCT systems in a systematic and quantitative way. In this work, we describe the effects of detector misalignments (linear shifts, rotation, and inclinations) on the image and define their tolerance as the maximum error that keeps the image free from artifacts.

Methods

We used simulations of four phantoms including systematic and random misalignments. Reconstructions of these data with and without errors were compared to identify the artifacts introduced in the reconstructed image and the tolerance to miscalibration deemed to provide acceptable image quality.

Results

Visual assessment provided an easy guideline to identify the sources of error by visual inspection of the artifactual images. Systematic errors result in blurring, shape distortion and/or reduction of the axial field of view while random errors produce streaks and blurring in all cases, with a tolerance which is more than twice that of systematic errors. The tolerance corresponding to errors in position of the detector along the tangential direction, that is, skew (<0.2°) and horizontal shift (<0.4 mm), is tighter than the tolerance to those errors affecting the position along the longitudinal direction or the magnification, that is, vertical shift (<2 mm), roll (<1.5°), tilt (<2°), and SDD (<3 mm).

Conclusion

We present a comprehensive study, based on realistic simulations, of the effects on the reconstructed image quality of errors in the geometrical characterization of a CBCT system and define their tolerance. These results could be used to guide the design of new systems, establishing the mechanical precision that must be achieved, and to help in the definition of an optimal geometrical calibration process. Also, the thorough visual assessment may be valuable to identify the most predominant sources of error based on the effects shown in the reconstructed image.
Investigation of the effects of spinal surgical implants on radiotherapy dosimetry: A study of 3D printed phantoms
Authors: Goodall Simon K. , Rampant Peter , Smith Warwick , Waterhouse David , Rowshanfarzad Pejman , Ebert Martin A.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The use of three‐dimensional (3D) printing to develop custom phantoms for dosimetric studies in radiotherapy is increasing. The process allows production of phantoms designed to evaluated specific geometries, patients, or patient groups with a defining feature. The ability to print bone‐equivalent phantoms has, however, proved challenging. The purpose of this work was to 3D print a series of three similar spine phantoms containing no surgical implants, implants made of titanium, and implants made of carbon fiber, for future dosimetric and imaging studies. Phantoms were evaluated for (a) tissue and bone equivalence, (b) geometric accuracy compared to design, and (c) similarity to one another.

Methods

Sample blocks of PLA, HIPS, and StoneFil PLA‐concrete with different infill densities were printed to evaluate tissue and bone equivalence. The samples were used to develop CT to physical (PD) and effective relative electron density (REDeff) conversion curves and define the settings for printing the phantoms. CT scans of the printed phantoms were obtained to assess the geometry and densities achieved. Mean distance to agreement (MDA) and DICE coefficient (DSC) values were calculated between contours defining the different materials, obtained from design and like phantom modules. HU values were used to determine PD and REDeff and subsequently evaluate tissue and bone equivalence.

Results

Sample objects showed linear relationships between HU and both PD and REDeff for both PLA and StoneFil. The PD and REDeff of the objects calculated using clinical CT conversion curves were not accurate and custom conversion curves were required. PLA printed with 90% infill density was found to have a PD of 1.11 ± 0.03 g.cm−3 and REDeff of 1.04 ± 0.02 and selected for tissue‐ equivalent phantom elements. StoneFil printed with 100% infill density showed a PD of 1.35 ± 0.03 g.cm−3 and REDeff of 1.24 ± 0.04 and was selected for bone‐equivalent elements. Upon evaluation of the final phantoms, the PLA elements displayed PD in the range of 1.10 ± 0.03 g.cm−3–1.13 ± 0.03 g.cm−3 and REDeff in the range of 1.02 ± 0.03–1.06 ± 0.03. The StoneFil elements showed PD in the range of 1.43 ± 0.04 g.cm−3–1.46 ± 0.04 g.cm−3 and REDeff in the range of 1.31 ± 0.04–1.33 ± 0.04. The PLA phantom elements were shown to have MDA of ≤1.00 mm and DSC of ≥0.95 compared to design, and ≤0.48 mm and ≥0.91 compared like modules. The StoneFil elements displayed MDA values of ≤0.44 mm and DSC of ≥0.98 compared to design and ≤0.43 mm and ≥0.92 compared like modules.

Conclusions

Phantoms which were radiologically equivalent to tissue and bone were produced with a high level of similarity to design and even higher level of similarity of one another. When used in conjunction with the derived CT to PD or REDeff conversion curves they are suitable for evaluating the effects of spinal surgical implants of varying material of construction.
Characterization of mononeuropathy of the lateral cutaneous nerve of the calf
Authors: Oaklander Anne Louise , Van Houten Trudy , Sabouri A. Sassan
Published: July 2021

Introduction/Aims

Isolated injuries to the lateral cutaneous nerve of the calf (LCNC) branch of the common peroneal nerve can cause obscure chronic posterolateral knee and upper calf pain and sensory symptoms. Routine examination and electrodiagnostic testing do not detect them because the LCNC has no motor distribution and it is not interrogated by the typical peroneal nerve conduction study. There are only about 10 prior cases, thus scant physician awareness, so most LCNC injuries remain misdiagnosed or undiagnosed, hindering care.

Methods

We extracted pertinent records from seven patients with unexplained posterolateral knee/calf pain, six labeled as complex regional pain syndrome, to investigate for mononeuropathies. Patients were asked to outline their skin area with abnormal responses to pin self‐examination independently. Three underwent an LCNC‐specific electrodiagnostic study, and two had skin‐biopsy epidermal innervation measured. Cadaver dissection of the posterior knee nerves helped identify potential entrapment sites.

Results

Initiating events included knee surgery (three), bracing (one), extensive kneeling (one), and other knee trauma. All pin‐outlines included the published LCNC neurotome. One oftwo LCNC‐specific electrodiagnostic studies revealed unilaterally absent potentials. Longitudinal, controlled skin biopsies documented profound LCNC‐neurotome denervation then re‐innervation contemporaneous with symptom recovery. Cadaver dissection identified the LCNC traversing through the dense fascia of the proximolateral gastrocnemius muscle insertion.

Discussion

Isolated LCNC mononeuropathy can cause unexplained posterolateral knee/calf pain syndromes. This series characterizes presentations and supports patient pin‐mappings as a sensitive, globally available, low‐cost diagnostic aid. Improved recognition may facilitate more rapid, accurate diagnosis and, thus, optimize management and improve outcomes.
Hybridization in government–civil society organization relationships: An institutional logic perspective
Authors: Min Byung Hee
Published: July 2021

This article builds a theoretical institutional logic framework to understand how distinctive institutional logics, specifically within the relationships between government and civil society organizations (CSOs), shape organizational hybridity. The present study, contextualized within a community development initiative in Seoul, South Korea, illuminates how government efforts to foster civil society lead to contested or contradictory organizational hybridity. Two types of organizational hybridity result, one government‐centered and another civil society‐centered. The analysis identifies six hybridizing mechanisms that induce organizational hybridity. Three of these mechanisms illustrate how a hierarchical, regulatory, and coercive logic of government induces the government‐centered organizational form. The second, CSO‐centered hybrid form reveals three contrasting mechanisms in which the CSOs and government are embedded in multiple, sometimes contradictory logics that reflect the plural identities of multiple CSOs.
The dog of Los Chonos: First pre‐Hispanic record in western Patagonia (~43° to 47°S, Chile)
Authors: Venanzi Lucio González , Prevosti Francisco Juan , San Román Manuel , Reyes Omar
Published: July 2021

In recent years, numerous archaeological remains of dogs (Canis familiaris) have been found in the Southern Cone of South America. In Patagonia, the pre‐Hispanic record was limited to the northeast. This article presents dog specimens recovered at archaeological site GUA‐010 Conchal located in the western Patagonian channels of Chile. Their presence is related to hunter‐gatherers showing marked marine adaptations. This study defines their chronology, characterizes them morphologically and morphometrically, estimates their body mass and age, and investigates their possible social roles. Our analyses indicates that the remains correspond to a pre‐Hispanic dog dated at 870 ± 20 years 14C bp (769–684 cal bp), thereby expanding the known geographic range of the species prior to European colonization. The dog was an adult animal, and its body size was approximately 3–4 kg, which represents the smallest individual recorded in the Southern Cone. Body size is consistent with the reports in ethnohistorical record, which indicated the use of dog fur as clothing and possibly its help in fishing. Archaeological evidence suggests that its function as a food source is unlikely.
Experimental observations in mismatch losses in monofacial and bifacial PV generators
Authors: Rossa Carlos , Martínez‐Moreno Francisco , Lorenzo Eduardo
Published: July 2021

Mismatch losses (
) in PV arrays have been experimentally investigated by observing the dispersion in the operating voltage of the individual modules under normal operating conditions, that is, with the inverter delivering energy to the grid, and by assuming that in the absence of mismatch, all the modules will have the same operating voltage which are equal to the observed average. For that, a quadratic relationship between relative power and relative voltage deviations derived from the power‐voltage curve of the modules is required. This has been carried out in two different PV generators: a 5.1 kWp with monofacial multicrystalline BSF modules installed in March 2013 and a 6.6 kWp with bifacial monocrystalline PERC modules, installed in May 2019. The respective coefficient of variation of the STC power is 1.6% and 0.3%. This decrease reflects the improvement between these two PV technologies and translates into a reduction in the
component derived from intrinsic differences in the constitution of the module, from 0.09% to 0.01%, following theoretical considerations. The
component due to the non‐uniformity of rear irradiance in the bifacial PV array is deduced by comparing its functioning with and without the rear side of the modules covered by opaque canvas and results in about 0.2–0.4%, which represents half of the total observed
. The difference between these components and the total
observed is attributed to differences in the module operating temperature. The aging of the monofacial PV array translates into an increase in
at a ratio of 0.04% per year.
Psychological distress of COVID‐19 pandemic and associated psychosocial factors among Mexican students: An exploratory study
Authors: Martínez Arriaga Reyna J. , González Ramírez Leivy P. , de la Roca‐Chiapas José M. , Hernández‐González Martha
Published: July 2021

COVID‐19 related social isolation measures and school closures have likely increased students' stress levels. In our study, we assess the level of psychological distress and psychosocial factors among students in Mexico at the beginning of the pandemic. We conducted a cross‐sectional exploratory study with 848 participants, the majority undergraduate or postgraduate (79.7%). Participants completed the Impact of Event Scale‐Revised to measure emotions, and a COVID‐19 questionnaire. We conducted a logistic regression analysis to find variables associated with stress: 36% (n = 309) had elevated stress, 31.4% (n = 266) anxiety, and 18.2% (n = 154) sadness often or all the time. Those who identified as women and reported a reduction in their incomes also reported a higher stress level. Stress was positively correlated with anxiety, anger, sadness, days in isolation, and hours watching TV daily; and negatively correlated with relaxation and happiness. The variable most strongly correlated with stress was a high perception of infection risk. Our findings will inform mental health strategies for students who are at higher risk of stress due to the COVID‐19 pandemic response.
The livelihood of urban poor households: A sustainable livelihood approach in urbanizing Ethiopia. The case of Gondar City, Amhara National State
Authors: Yirga Bosena
Published: July 2021

Studies show that many poverty and food security‐related research studies in Ethiopia have overlooked urban settings. While urban poverty may be more difficult to curb than rural poverty, more attention needs to be focused on understanding urban livelihood. This study examines the livelihoods of the urban poor through the lens of a sustainable livelihood approach. Specifically, it examines the livelihood assets, vulnerability context, and various factors that mediate asset and vulnerability of the urban poor. Quantitative and qualitative research design was employed to obtain and analyze data. The study revealed that the urban poor have very limited access to livelihood assets and are vulnerable to different shocks that create a situation of livelihood insecurity. There is a gap between government policies and their implementation. For instance, NGO policies did not consider the situation and realities of urban poor. Also, capacity constraints of the local government and NGOs led to perpetual livelihood vulnerability. Findings of this study suggest the need to start an urban productive safety net program that targets urban areas to provide long‐term empowerment of poor households; introduce school feeding programs; create collaboration between government sectors, NGOs, community‐based and civil society associations; and revisit and improve supportive and regulatory policy frameworks for the poor to build sustainable livelihoods. This study confirms the usefulness of a sustainable livelihood framework to understand and explain various dimensions of poverty, policies, institutions, and processes, and how all these affect the livelihoods of the poor. Insights from this analysis can contribute to the improvement of policy and to reflections on the interventions needed to positively influence the livelihoods of the poor.
Prediction of drug concentrations in milk during breastfeeding, integrating predictive algorithms within a physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic model
Authors: Abduljalil Khaled , Pansari Amita , Ning Jia , Jamei Masoud
Published: July 2021

There is a risk of exposure to drugs in neonates during the lactation period due to maternal drug intake. The ability to predict drugs of potential hazards to the neonates would be useful in a clinical setting. This work aimed to evaluate the possibility of integrating milk‐to‐plasma (M/P) ratio predictive algorithms within the physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) approach and to predict milk exposure for compounds with different physicochemical properties. Drug and physiological milk properties were integrated to develop a lactation PBPK model that takes into account the drug ionization, partitioning between the maternal plasma and milk matrices, and drug partitioning between the milk constituents. Infant dose calculations that take into account maternal and milk physiological variability were incorporated in the model. Predicted M/P ratio for acetaminophen, alprazolam, caffeine, and digoxin were 0.83 ± 0.01, 0.45 ± 0.05, 0.70 ± 0.04, and 0.76 ± 0.02, respectively. These ratios were within 1.26‐fold of the observed ratios. Assuming a daily milk intake of 150 ml, the predicted relative infant dose (%) for these compounds were 4.0, 6.7, 9.9, and 86, respectively, which correspond to a daily ingestion of 2.0 ± 0.5 mg, 3.7 ± 1.2 µg, 2.1 ± 1.0 mg, and 32 ± 4.0 µg by an infant of 5 kg bodyweight. Integration of the lactation model within the PBPK approach will facilitate and extend the application of PBPK models during drug development in high‐throughput screening and in different clinical settings. The model can also be used in designing lactation trials and in the risk assessment of both environmental chemicals and maternally administered drugs.
Tunable Linear Dependence of Giant Magnetoimpedance Response of Microwires Annealed under Fluid Oil for Sensor Applications
Authors: Chen Dongming , Wang Yunfei , Su Rui , Shen Hongxian , Liu Jingshun , Zhang Lunyong , Jiang Sida , Sun Jianfei
Published: July 2021

Herein, fluid oil joule annealing modulation (FOJA) for improving the giant magnetoimpedance (GMI) property of CoFe‐based microwires with the microstructure is adopted, and magnetic domain structure is systematically investigated. Compared with general joule annealing (JA) method, a much larger DC current can be used. The maximum GMI value is 440.8% in the 250 mA FOJA‐treated sample and the maximum monotonically increasing magnetic field is 12 Oe in 400 mA FOJA‐treated sample. In the 100–400 mA FOJA‐treated samples, there is a nearly linear increase and decrease relationship between GMI and the magnetic field. In addition, the FOJA method can control the radial stress release and helical magnetic domains of the microwire by changing the Joule heat transfer and the circumferential magnetic field and then tune the GMI performance of the microwires. The remarkable features, including a continuous and clear linear‐sensitive response field Hex of 0–95 Oe, quick response sensitivity, large GMI ratio, and excellent tunability, make the FOJA‐tailored microwires promising candidate material for miniaturized GMI sensors.
Impact of Deposition Temperature on Crystal Structure and Ferroelectric Properties of (Al1−xScx)N Films Prepared by Sputtering Method
Authors: Yasuoka Shinnosuke , Shimizu Takao , Tateyama Akinori , Uehara Masato , Yamada Hiroshi , Akiyama Morito , Funakubo Hiroshi
Published: July 2021

The deposition temperature dependence of the crystal structure and ferroelectricity for Sc‐doped AlN [(Al0.78Sc0.22)N] films is investigated. (Al0.78Sc0.22)N films 120–190 nm thick are deposited at various deposition temperatures between 500 °C and ambient temperature without heating on (111)Pt/TiO
x
/SiO2/(100)Si substrates. Crystalline films are obtained for all films, but its (001) orientation decreases with decreasing deposition temperature below 300 °C. Crystal anisotropy increases with decreasing deposition temperature due to the decrease in the thermal strain that originates from the larger thermal expansion coefficient of (Al0.78Sc0.22)N than Si. Ferroelectricity is observed by both of the polarization–electric field (P–E) curves and the positive‐up–negative‐down (PUND) measurement for all films. The ferroelectric polarization switching of the films deposited without heating is ascertained not only by P–E curves but also by the phase change of the piezoresponse. Slight increase in the coercive field with decreasing deposition temperature can be explained by the increase in crystal anisotropy.
An alternative to proportional‐integral and proportional‐integral‐derivative regulators: Intelligent proportional‐derivative regulators
Authors: Fliess Michel , Join Cédric
Published: July 2021

This paper suggests to replace Proportional‐Integral and Proportional‐Integral‐Derivative regulators, which play a key rôle in control engineering, by intelligent Proportional‐Derivative feedback loops, or iPDs, which are derived from model‐free control. This standpoint is enhanced by a laboratory experiment.
Time‐triggered intermittent control of continuous systems
Authors: Wang Qingzhi , He Yong
Published: July 2021

For intermittent control, its control signal is updated in a continuous manner on control time intervals. To overcome the limitation, time‐triggered intermittent control (TIC) is presented for the first time in this article. In our work, based on a new time‐triggered mechanism, the mathematical description of TIC is put forward and a TIC system is modeled. Different from the traditional time‐triggered mechanism, the new time‐triggered mechanism just allows the partial sampled data to be transmitted. Due to different structures of the TIC system, a mixed Lyapunov functional is introduced to obtain a general stability criterion. As a result, a stabilization criterion of continuous systems with TIC is deduced and two methods to design TIC are proposed. Further, comparisons between TIC and sampled‐data control (SC) are made. Finally, an example is given for illustration.
Diverse rotations impact microbial processes, seasonality and overall nitrous oxide emissions from soils
Authors: Drury Craig F. , Reynolds W. Daniel , Yang Xueming , McLaughlin Neil B. , Calder Wayne , Phillips Lori A.
Published: July 2021

Many studies haveexamined soil‐borne nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from crops, but little effort has gone into determining the N2O emissions from each phase of a crop rotation. A 4‐yr study on a long‐term field experiment compared growing season N2O emissions from continuous corn (CC; Zea mays L.) and a 4‐yr crop rotation involving corn (RC), oat (Avena Sativa L.) underseeded to alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) (RO), and 2 yr of alfalfa (RA1, RA2). Molecular microbial biomass (DNA yield), as well as N‐cycling functioning genes (mineralization, nitrification, and denitrification), were also evaluated. Although 4‐yr cumulative N2O emissions from RC (9.25 kg N ha–1) were significantly greater than from CC (7.94 kg N ha–1), cumulative emissions from the entire rotation were 54% lower (3.69 kg N ha–1) than CC because of low emissions from RO (3.1 kg N ha–1), RA1, and RA2 (1.11–1.27 kg N ha–1). Years that had substantial early‐season precipitation combined with high soil inorganic N from alfalfa plow‐down contributed to elevated N2O emissions from RC. Improved soil conditions and fertility under rotation increased RC grain yields by 35% (9.45 Mg ha–1) compared with CC (7.01 Mg ha–1). Microbial biomass was 73% greater in RC compared with CC. Nitrogen mineralization genes were 19% greater in RC but they were not correlated to N2O emissions, whereas bacterial nitrifiers were positively correlated. Denitrification was likely responsible for N2O emissions under CC, while nitrifier‐denitrification appeared to be the primary pathway under RC. The N2O emissions and microbial processes from all phases of a rotation should be considered for environmental modeling and policy decisions.
How does symbolic commitment strengthen the resilience of sustainability institutions? Exploring the role of bureaucrats in Germany, Finland, and theUK
Authors: Wong Ryan , van der Heijden Jeroen
Published: July 2021

Symbolic commitment is commonly acknowledged in the literature to be important for sustainability governance. Academics express high hopes and expectations of symbolic commitment as a means to strengthen sustainability institutions. Policy makers and bureaucrats see it as being necessary in order to keep an issue on the agenda. However, little is known about how symbolic commitment contributes to institutional resilience. This study examines the rise and fall of national institutions for implementing sustainability agendas in Germany, Finland, and the UK in the context of fluctuating symbolic commitment. Interviews with 56 policy actors and documentary analysis uncovered the creative role of bureaucrats in securing symbolic commitment. The risks of relying on symbolic commitment can be reduced by considering the impact of economic austerity and the loss of institutional memory.
Naphthalene‐Coupled Pyridinium Urea Salt in Fluorometric Sensing of Iodide
Authors: Panja Santanu , Kumar Abhishek , Misra Neeraj , Ghosh Subhasis , Raza Rameez , Ghosh Kumaresh
Published: July 2021

Naphthalene substituted pyridinium urea and amide 1 and 2 have been designed and synthesized respectively, of which compound 1 served as potential chemosensor for fluorometric detection of I− ions both in organic and semi‐aqueous medium. We found that while basic anions cause deprotonation of the urea and amide H‐bonds, iodide forms weak hydrogen bonds in 1 as established by spectroscopic and theoretical studies. This makes it more suitable to produce charge transfer complex than 2 and enables it to act as a selective sensor for iodide ions.
NIR‐Responsive Fe3O4@MSN@PPy‐PVP Nanoparticles as the Nano‐Enzyme for Potential Tumor Therapy
Authors: Jia Chengzheng , Liu Huiwen , Hu Yunxia , Wu Hang , Zhu Chunping , Zhang Yuxuan , Wang Shige , Huang Mingxian
Published: July 2021

Among various kinds of photothermal conversion materials, polypyrrole (PPy) has attracted ever‐increasing attention because of its good biocompatibility and excellent near‐infrared light response property. In this research, the core‐shell nanoparticles with magnetic Fe3O4 as the core and mesoporous silica (MSN) as the shell were prepared, the resulted Fe3O4@MSN nanoparticles were then surface coated with a layer of PPy and further modified with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to gain colloidal stability. The Fe2+ in Fe3O4 can catalyze the decomposition of H2O2 in tumor cells to produce cytotoxic hydroxyl radicals, thus realizing the tumor chemodynamic therapy. Meanwhile, the MSN layer gives the nanoparticles a higher drug loading capacity of chemotherapeutics (doxorubicin, DOX). Therefore, the prepared Fe3O4@MSN@PPy‐PVP nanoparticles not only have good biocompatibility, magnetism and colloidal stability but also can realize the combined tumor photothermal, chemo, and chemodynamic therapy. This study demonstrates the rational design of multifunctional nanoplatforms for biomedical applications.
Orientation Analysis of Polymer Chains in Optically Transparent Biopolyimides Having Rigid and Bending Backbones
Authors: Sornkamnerd Saranyoo , Sasaki Shuhei , Mitsumata Tetsu , Takada Kenji , Okada Tomohiro , Ando Shinji , Kaneko Tatsuo
Published: July 2021

Optically transparent and heat‐resistant polymer films are useful in the field of organic glasses usable for electric insulators for panels, windows, optical devices, etc. A series of biopolyimides having non‐π‐conjugated backbones prepared using a renewable diamine, 4,4′‐diaminotruxillic acid dimethyl esters, and various dianhydride monomers were prepared and cast onto substrates to form transparent films with high heat resistances and good electric resistance. The second order orientation coefficients (P200) of the biopolyimide films were evaluated by polarized attenuated total reflection Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and the P200 values for the C−N stretching vibrations at a wavenumber of 1365 cm−1 displayed a good correlation with that for the aromatic C−C stretching at 1510 cm−1, regardless of the dianhydride structure. The in‐plane/out‐of‐plane birefringence and coefficients of linear thermal expansion exhibited strong correlations with P200 except for those of a few samples. Most of the biopolyimide films exhibited good transparencies with low birefringence and high electric resistance, which are applicable to flexible substrates with a low coefficient of thermal expansion for panel displays.
Efficient Two‐Electron Oxygen Reduction to Hydrogen Peroxide Promoted by Ag‐7,7,8,8‐Tetracyanoquinodimethane Nanodots/Graphene Hydrogel Hybrid Electrocatalysts
Authors: Jiang Lili , Xia Baokai , Xu Shuaishuai , Sun Yuntong , Chen Sheng , Zhu Junwu
Published: July 2021

A hybrid electrocatalyst consisting of Ag‐7,7,8,8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane (Ag‐TCNQ) nanodots/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) hydrogel has been reported for the electrochemical synthesis of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) from two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction. The electrocatalyst has exhibited good performance with productivity of 0.78 mg h−1 cm−2 (458 mmol gcat−1 h−1) and FE of 71.2 % at 0.26 V (vs.RHE). It has also delivered strong durability for 150 h. Further mechanism study shows the excellent structural features of Ag‐TCNQ/rGO that contribute to the efficient H2O2 synthesis, including the small‐size Ag‐TCNQ nanodots, rich porosity and highly hydrate structure of graphene hydrogel. This work not only provides an emerging strategy for sustainable electrosynthesis of H2O2, but also provides a new class of hydrated catalysts for many applications.
Photocatalytic Reforming of Sucrose and Dextrose for Hydrogen Production on Pd/TiO2
Authors: Beasley Charles , Gnanamani Muthu Kumaran , Qian Dali , Hopps Shelley D.
Published: July 2021

Photocatalytic reforming of sucrose and dextrose was performed on TiO2 supported Pd (0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 wt%) catalysts under UV light irradiation. Hydrogen production increases with increasing the sucrose concentration. Semiconductor TiO2 has shown benefit from palladium additions up to about 0.5–1.0 wt%; however, the further metal increase has no benefits. Kinetics study reveals that the apparent reaction rate for hydrogen evolution follows the Langmuir‐Hinshelwood (LH) mechanism. The equilibrium constant (K) determined was 1.078 for 1 %Pd/TiO2, while 2 %Pd/TiO2 exhibited 0.122, which is an order of magnitude less than the former catalyst. Hydrogen yield from dextrose is higher than sucrose under similar reaction conditions. Furthermore, the catalyst pretreated by sodium borohydride displayed higher activity for dextrose reforming than untreated, implying that metallic Pd enhanced hydrogen production.
Enhancing Rate Capacity and Cycle Stability of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 Cathode Material by Laminar V2O5 Coating for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Lv Fan , Cheng Hongwei , Nie Wei , Sun Qiangchao , Liu Yanbo , Duan Tong , Xu Qian , Lu Xionggang
Published: July 2021

The laminar V2O5‐coated LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 (NCM‐V2O5) was successfully synthesized via a facile wet‐coating method using NH4VO3 as the modifier precursor. The phase structure, microscopic morphologies, and element distribution of a thin V2O5 layer were investigated by a serials of ex‐situ characterization analysis. Subsequently, the phase changes of NCM‐V2O5 during first charge/discharge were researched by ex‐situ (X‐ray diffraction) XRD tests, which reveals the prominent structural stability. NCM‐V2O5 material shows an advanced rate performance due to elimination of surface lithium impurities, improvement of lithium‐ions diffusion, and impedance reduction. Additionally, excellent cycling performance mainly relies on the alleviated parasitic side reactions at the electrode and electrolyte interface. Specifically, the NCM‐V2O5 retains 89.23 % capacity retention at 1 C after 100 cycles. What's more, NCM‐V2O5 delivers 131.3 (5 C) and 123.1 mAh g−1 (10 C) capacity, and it achieves 88.65 % (5 C) and 88.22 % (10 C) capacity retention after 200 cycles. This work provides an effective guidance for the design of lithium‐ion battery cathode materials with high‐rate performance.
Solid‐Supported Materials‐Based Synthesis of 2‐Substituted Benzothiazoles: Recent Developments and Sanguine Future
Authors: Singh Rahul , Sindhu Jayant , Devi Meena , Kumar Ashwani , Kumar Ramesh , Hussain Khalid , Kumar Parvin
Published: July 2021

Benzothiazole and its derivatives have been manifested as an optimistic scaffold due to their immense biological importance. Several methodologies have been reported as modifications after the first report of 2‐substituted benzothiazole. Among them, many involve a shift from the conventional synthetic approach by utilizing different catalytic systems. Moreover, synthetic methodologies focused on improvements in terms of product yield, reaction duration, use of environmentally benign conditions and simplified workup procedures predominate among the recently developed approaches. Solid‐phase organic synthesis received considerable attention with the pioneering findings of Merrifield's solid‐phase peptide synthesis in 1963. A diverse range of organic, inorganic and organic‐inorganic substances have been utilized as polymeric solid supports in various catalytic applications. The recyclability and reusability of the immobilized catalysts over consecutive cycles establish them as an attractive alternative over conventional catalytic systems from the environment as well as industrial perspective. The present review summarizes the recent developments in the environmentally benign synthesis of benzothiazole derivatives using supported reagents. Different solid supports along with their catalytic application, mechanistic perspective and substrate tolerance have been discussed comprehensively.
Outstanding Enhancement of Curcumin Fluorescence in PDDA and Silica Nanoparticles Coated DMPC Liposomes Based Nanocapsules: Application for Selective Estimation of ATP**
Authors: Othman Alaa K. , El Kurdi Riham , Patra Digambara
Published: July 2021

Here we illustrate the synthesis of, 2‐dimyristoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (DMPC) liposome based poly(dimethyldiallylammonium chloride) (PDDA) nanocapsule where PDDA and silica nanoparticles are coated on the surface of curcumin embedded liposomes. The prepared nanocapsule was analyzed using UV‐vis spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering technique, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Zeta‐potential, Thermogravimetric analysis and X‐ray diffraction method. The fluorescence intensity of DMPC nanocapsules was found to be exceedingly, 60‐fold, higher than free curcumin, thus, it boosts potential of such nanocapsules for various applications. The detection of Adinosine Triphosphate (ATP) was carried out by monitoring the change in the fluorescence emission of this DMPC nanocapsules while increasing the concentration of ATP molecule in the tested sample. Interestingly, fluorescence of free curcumin did not respond to ATP, whereas the fluorescence intensity of nanocapsules increased by the increase of ATP concentration, which establishes that materials prepared using nanotechnological modification of probe molecule can selectively target a particular analytical species. The nanocapsules based probe gave a linear correlation between the fluorescence intensity of DMPC nanocapsules in the concentration range 1 μM −100 μM with the limit of detection equals to 0.5 μM. The described method is not interfered by uracil triphosphate, guanine triphosphate, cytosine triphosphate and thymine triphosphate molecules and showed good stability.