bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineered small extracellular vesicles displaying ACE2 variants on the surface protect against SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Kim Hark Kyun , Cho Junhyung , Kim Eunae , Kim Junsik , Yang Jeong‐Sun , Kim Kyung‐Chang , Lee Joo‐Yeon , Shin Younmin , Palomera Leon F. , Park Jinsu , Baek Seung Hyun , Bae Han‐Gyu , Cho Yoonsuk , Han Jihoon , Sul Jae Hoon , Lee Jeongmi , Park Jae Hyung , Cho Yong Woo , Lee Wonsik , Jo Dong‐Gyu
Published: January 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) entry is mediated by the interaction of the viral spike (S) protein with angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) on the host cell surface. Although a clinical trial testing soluble ACE2 (sACE2) for COVID‐19 is currently ongoing, our understanding of the delivery of sACE2 via small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) is still rudimentary. With excellent biocompatibility allowing for the effective delivery of molecular cargos, sEVs are broadly studied as nanoscale protein carriers. In order to exploit the potential of sEVs, we design truncated CD9 scaffolds to display sACE2 on the sEV surface as a decoy receptor for the S protein of SARS‐CoV‐2. Moreover, to enhance the sACE2‐S binding interaction, we employ sACE2 variants. sACE2‐loaded sEVs exhibit typical sEVs characteristics and bind to the S protein. Furthermore, engineered sEVs inhibit the entry of wild‐type (WT), the globally dominant D614G variant, Beta (K417N‐E484K‐N501Y) variant, and Delta (L452R‐T478K‐D614G) variant SARS‐CoV‐2 pseudovirus, and protect against authentic SARS‐CoV‐2 and Delta variant infection. Of note, sACE2 variants harbouring sEVs show superior antiviral efficacy than WT sACE2 loaded sEVs. Therapeutic efficacy of the engineered sEVs against SARS‐CoV‐2 challenge was confirmed using K18‐hACE2 mice. The current findings provide opportunities for the development of new sEVs‐based antiviral therapeutics.
Crosstalk between R848 and abortive HIV-1 RNA-induced signaling enhances antiviral immunity
Authors: Stunnenberg Melissa , van Hamme John L , Zijlstra-Willems Esther M , Gringhuis Sonja I , Geijtenbeek Teunis B H
Published: January 2022

Pathogens trigger multiple pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that together dictate innate and adaptive immune responses. Understanding the crosstalk between PRRs is important to enhance vaccine efficacy. Abortive HIV-1 RNA transcripts are produced during acute and chronic HIV-1 infection and are known ligands for different PRRs, leading to antiviral and proinflammatory responses. Here, we have investigated the crosstalk between responses induced by these 58 nucleotide-long HIV-1 RNA transcripts and different TLR ligands. Costimulation of dendritic cells (DCs) with abortive HIV-1 RNA and TLR7/8 agonist R848, but not other TLR agonists, resulted in enhanced antiviral type I IFN responses as well as adaptive immune responses via the induction of DC-mediated T helper 1 (TH1) responses and IFNγ+CD8+ T cells. Our data underscore the importance of crosstalk between abortive HIV-1 RNA and R848-induced signaling for the induction of effective antiviral immunity.
Interaction between laccase and diethylstilbestrol based on multispectral and chromatography analyses
Authors: Lin Xiaolian , Liu Hongyan , Tang Lin , Shi Mengjie , Xu Minhua , Huang Yipeng , Yi Zhongsheng , Chen Huiying
Published: January 2022

Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is a synthetic form of oestrogen that does not easily degrade in the environment and can be harmful to human health. Herein, the mechanism of the interaction between laccase and DES was investigated by various spectroscopic means and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results of fluorescence experiments showed that the quenching of intrinsic fluorescence of laccase by DES was due to a static quenching, forming a binding site. According to the Förster non‐radiative energy transfer theory (FRET), the action distance R0 between DES and laccase was 4.708 nm, r was 5.81 nm, and the energy transfer efficiency E was 22.08%, respectively. Both UV‐Vis absorption spectra and FT‐IR spectra indicated changes in the conformation and surroundings of the enzyme and changed in the secondary structure of laccase. Multispectral synthesis showed that the interaction of laccase with DES caused a change in the secondary structure of laccase. The degradation experiments showed that laccase could degrade DES, and the DES content decreased with time. This study provides a new theoretical basis and experimental method for further research on the reaction mechanism of the laccase degradation of DES. It may also provide a reference basis for human biological and environmental safety evaluations.
Genotypic and allelic distribution of IFN‐γ +874T/A and TGF‐β1 −509C/T single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in human immunodeficiency virus‐infected Thais
Authors: Akekawatchai Chareeporn , Phuegsilp Chada , Changsri Khaimuk , Soimanee Thanawan , Sretapunya Warisara
Published: January 2022

Advances in antiretroviral therapy (ART) have led to a decrease of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)‐related mortality, and an increase of non‐AIDS illnesses in people living with HIV (PLWH). Risks for HIV‐related chronic inflammation leading to non‐AIDS illnesses in PLWH have been increasingly clarified including immunogenetic factors. This study aimed to examine distribution of genotypic and allelic frequencies of the well‐characterized interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) +874T/A and transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) −509C/T single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in Thai PLWH. The cross‐sectional study was conducted in 191 Thai HIV patients. Most patients were under ART (74.3%) and maintained a relatively high median of CD4+ cell count (364.5 [5–1601] cells/μl). The frequencies of IFN‐γ +874T/A  SNP genotypes were 9.0% AA, 38.3% AT, and 52.7% TT and those of the SNP alleles were 28.1% A and 71.9% T. The rates of TGF‐β1−509C/T SNP genotypes were 15.7% CC, 44.0% CT, and 40.3% TT and those of the SNP alleles were 37.7% C and 62.3% T. The more frequent TT genotypes and T allele of the IFN‐γ +874T/A SNP, and relatively more prevalent TT and CT genotypes and T allele of TGF‐β1 −509C/T SNP were potentially associated with disease progression to non‐AIDS complication in Thai PLWH and required further investigation. This study provides the immunogenetic data potentially supporting mechanisms for chronic immune activation in PLWH under long‐term suppressive ART.
The contribution of the ligaments in progressive collapsing foot deformity: A comprehensive computational study
Authors: Malakoutikhah Hamed , Madenci Erdogan , Latt Leonard Daniel
Published: January 2022

The contribution of each of the ligaments in preventing the arch loss, hindfoot valgus, and forefoot abduction seen in progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD) has not been well characterized. An improved understanding of the individual ligament contributions to the deformity would aid in selecting among available treatments, optimizing current surgical techniques, and developing new ones. In this study, we evaluated the contribution of each ligament to the maintenance of foot alignment using a finite element model of the foot reconstructed from computed tomography scan images. The collapsed foot was modeled by simulating the failure of all the ligaments involved in PCFD. The ligaments were removed one at a time to determine the impact of each ligament on foot alignment, and then restored one at a time to simulate isolated reconstruction. Our findings show that the failure of any one ligament did not immediately lead to deformity, but that combined failure of only a few (the plantar fascia, long plantar, short plantar, deltoid, and spring ligaments) could lead to significant deformity. The plantar fascia, deltoid, and spring ligaments were primarily responsible for the prevention of arch collapse, hindfoot valgus, and forefoot abduction, respectively. Moreover, to produce deformity, a considerable amount of attenuation in the spring, tibiocalcaneal, interosseous talocalcaneal, plantar naviculocuneiform, and first plantar tarsometatarsal ligaments, but only a small amount in the plantar fascia, long plantar, and short plantar ligaments was needed. The results of this study suggest that the ability of a ligament to prevent deformity may not correlate with its attenuation in a collapsed foot.
Accumulation of SOM fractions to croplands and plantations converted from cropland with black soil
Authors: Han Shaojie , Wang Enheng , Chen Xiangwei , Fu Yu
Published: January 2022

Soil organic matter (SOM) decreases after the conversion of native grasslands to croplands and increases after the conversion of croplands to plantations. However, the reasons for loss and/or accumulation of SOM fractions remain unclear. Hence, we investigated SOM fraction quantity and quality of soils from cropland (CL), a plantation (PL) converted from cropland, and native grassland (NG) all converted from the black soil (Mollisols) region of China. Results showed that: (1) across all sites, coarse particulate organic matter (cPOM), fine particulate organic matter (fPOM), and mineral‐associated organic matter (mSOM) formed successively, and the mSOM carbon (C) content accounted for more than 70% of the bulk SOM C content. (2) The cPOM C contents in CL and NG were similar, but the fPOM and mSOM C contents in CL were only 11.35% and 52.95% of those in NG, respectively. The C contents of cPOM, fPOM, and mSOM in PL were 53.77%, 27.72%, and 72.80% of those in NG, respectively. (3) The accumulation of mSOM was affected by the quantity of fPOM, but had no obvious relationship with the quality of fPOM. However, the accumulation of fPOM was affected by both quantity and quality of cPOM. In general, promoting the accumulation of fPOM may increase the mSOM and SOM contents of CL, and increasing cPOM may be a feasible way to increase the SOM content of PL. The study provides a fundamental reference for promoting SOM accumulation of croplands and plantations in the black soil region.
Impact of climate change on the dynamics of soybean (Glycine max) (L.) Merr. production areas in the second agricultural development pole of the Sudanian region of Benin (West Africa)
Authors: Issifou Moumouni Yaya , Kindjinou T. André , Adougan Bernandette , Hounkanrin Barnabé , Koumassi Hervé , Ezin A. Vincent , Yabi Ibourïma , Ogouwale Euloge
Published: January 2022

The impact of climate change on the world food supply is the drastic decrease of cereal production in the Sudano‐Sahelian region of Africa. The objective of this research is to analyze the impact of climate variability on the dynamics of current and future soybean (Glycine max) production areas in the second agricultural development pole of Benin in the Sudanian region. The maximum entropy approach (Maxent) was adopted. To this end, 10,135 points of soybean (G. max) occurrence in the field and at the GBIF site were associated with environmental variables of three climatic scenarios, namely: climatic conditions, the optimistic scenario (RCP 4.5), and the most pessimistic but probable scenario (RCP 8.5) for the purposes of the analysis. The results show that climate variability will lead to profound changes in soybean agro‐ecological areas by 2050. These changes will be marked by an increase in non‐suitable and completely non suitable areas for soybean production at the expense of currently suitable and completely suitable areas. Non suitable areas, which currently occupy 26% of the study area, will increase to 27% in the RCP8.5 scenario by 2050. The same trends are observed in the completely non suitable areas, with 23% under current conditions and 26% under RCP8.5. It is therefore necessary to anticipate the adaptation and resilience strategies of producers in the face of future climate change.
Preparation of Poly(Ionic Liquid) Microbeads by Evaporation‐Assisted Phase Separation
Authors: Lei Qi , He Fang , Zhao Xiaopeng , Yin Jianbo
Published: January 2022

The authors reported a simple and high‐yield evaporation‐assisted phase separation (EAPS) method to prepare poly(ionic liquid) (PIL) microbeads, in particular submicron microbeads. Irregular PIL powder or bulk is dissolved in a theta solvent composed of volatile good solvent and less volatile non‐solvent at room temperature, and then PIL microbeads are formed by evaporation of the solution at a temperature lower than the boiling point of volatile good solvent. The yield of microbeads, in particular, submicron microbeads, prepared by the EAPS method can reach 99%. The mechanism of microbead formation is studied by tracing the nucleation and growth process by the light transmittance. The key parameters to control the size and morphology of microbeads are investigated and discussed.
Life‐Space Mobility and Parkinson's Disease. A Multiple‐Methods Study
Authors: Ryder‐Burbidge Charlotte , Wieler Marguerite , Nykiforuk Candace I.J. , Jones C. Allyson
Published: January 2022

Background

Life‐space mobility (LSM) captures a broad spectrum of mobility in physical and social environments; however, it has not been extensively studied in Parkinson's disease. Using a multiple‐methods approach, individual, social and environmental factors that impact LSM were explored in PD.

Methods

Two hundred twenty‐seven participants with PD (n = 113) and a comparative group without PD (n = 114) were recruited from the community. Within a cross‐sectional survey, LSM (University of Alabama Birmingham Life‐Space Assessment, LSA) was compared in the two groups. Using multiple linear regression, socio‐demographics, lifestyle behaviors, medical, mobility and social factors were examined to identify factors that explained LSM. A qualitative narrative inquiry was completed to augment the findings from the survey; 10 participants with PD were interviewed regarding facilitators and barriers to mobility.

Results

The mean overall LSA‐composite score for the PD group was 64.2 (SD = 25.8) and 70.3 (SD = 23.1) for the community comparative group (mean difference = 6 points, 95%CI:‐0.4, 12.5) indicating most participants moved independently beyond their neighborhoods. A higher proportion of the PD group required assistance with mobility than the community comparison group. Not driving, receiving caregiving, lower social participation, and lower monthly family finances were associated with restricted LSM in the PD group. Data from qualitative interviews supported quantitative findings and offered insights into the features of the built environment that facilitate and restrict mobility.

Conclusion

Individual, social and environmental factors are associated with the LSM among persons with PD. Clinicians and policy‐makers should include both individual and community‐based factors when developing interventions to encourage the LSM of the PD population.
When does environmental innovation crowd out process innovation? A dynamic analysis
Authors: Li Dongdong , Shang Chenxuan
Published: January 2022

It is known that environmental innovation may crowd out process innovation. Less known are the exact conditions under which crowding‐out effect occurs. This article fills the gap by developing a dynamic control model of environmental and process innovation. The result shows that when the depreciation rate of process innovation is sufficiently high, environmental innovation investment crowds out process innovation investment. By comparing monopolist and social planner optimum, we find that the problem of insufficient investments can happen for environmental and process innovation for a smaller emission tax.
Exploration of the Chemical Space of DNA‐encoded Libraries
Authors: Pikalyova Regina , Zabolotna Yuliana , Volochnyuk Dmitriy M. , Horvath Dragos , Marcou Gilles , Varnek Alexandre
Published: January 2022

DNA‐Encoded Library (DEL) technology has emerged as an alternative method for bioactive molecules discovery in medicinal chemistry. It enables the simple synthesis and screening of compound libraries of enormous size. Even though it gains more and more popularity each day, there are almost no reports of chemoinformatics analysis of DEL chemical space. Therefore, in this project, we aimed to generate and analyze the ultra‐large chemical space of DEL. Around 2500 DELs were designed using commercially available building blocks resulting in 2,5B DEL compounds that were compared to biologically relevant compounds from ChEMBL using Generative Topographic Mapping. This allowed to choose several optimal DELs covering the chemical space of ChEMBL to the highest extent and thus containing the maximum possible percentage of biologically relevant chemotypes. Different combinations of DELs were also analyzed to identify a set of mutually complementary libraries allowing to attain even higher coverage of ChEMBL than it is possible with one single DEL.
Technical note: Relationship between peak skin dose and fluoroscopic Ka,r: Clinical variations and application in establishing substantial radiation dose levels
Authors: Fong Grant , Wunderle Kevin
Published: January 2022

Background

The reference point cumulative air kerma (Ka,r) is a commonly used dose quantity for establishing substantial radiation dose levels (SRDLs) that can provide guidance for patient dose management actions following fluoroscopically guided procedures. However, the Ka,r may not correlate well with the patient peak skin dose (Dskin,max) because the relationship between Ka,r and Dskin,max may vary widely due to clinical variations. Therefore, it may be prudent for institutions to establish different Ka,r‐based SRDL values based on the clinical procedure type.

Purpose

The present study investigates the relationship between Ka,r and Dskin,max for different clinical services and how that variation may overestimate or underestimate the need for patient follow‐up. Additionally, the study suggests a possible framework for establishing Ka,r SRDLs based on the clinical data analysis.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed for fluoroscopically guided interventions exceeding 5 Gy Ka,r. For each procedure, the patient Dskin,max was estimated and the ratio of Dskin,max to Ka,r (DKR) was calculated. Results were pooled into one of three clinical service categories: body interventions (n = 33), cardiac interventions (n = 81), or neurological (neuro) interventions (n = 44). The distributions in Ka,r, Dskin,max, and DKR were analyzed in aggregate and by the clinical service category.

Results

The median Ka,r values for procedures exceeding 5 Gy were 6.0 Gy (95% CI [5.6, 6.4]) for body interventions, 5.8 Gy (95% CI [5.5, 6.0]) for cardiac interventions, and 6.3 Gy (95% CI [5.9, 6.6]) for neuro interventions. Dskin,max for the same procedure data sets were 5.0 Gy (95% CI [4.4, 5.6]) for body interventions, 5.5 Gy (95% CI [5.2, 5.8]) for cardiac interventions, and 3.7 Gy (95% CI [3.4, 4.0]) for neuro interventions. This resulted in median DKR values of 0.81 for body interventions, 0.91 for cardiac interventions, and 0.59 for neuro interventions.

Conclusions

This study illustrates the need to understand the relationship between the reported Ka,r and the patient Dskin,max for different types of interventional procedures. This is especially important when an institution uses Ka,r as the parameter for establishing an SRDL threshold to identify patients who may require clinical follow‐up. The implications of this research and a guide for how to implement these findings are elaborated on in the Discussion.
Developing a Brown Trout Stocking Screening Tool from a Statewide Random Sampling Program and Landscape-Scale Predictor Variables
Authors: Hessenauer Jan-Michael , Wehrly Kevin
Published: January 2022

Evaluation of fisheries management actions are critical but can be challenging when management actions are applied at broad spatial scales. Likewise, evaluations can be limited if monitoring data are not available for comparison. One widely applied management strategy that can be difficult to evaluate at broad spatial scales is the stocking of fish. We used presence/absence data collected by 209 surveys of the Michigan Stream Status and Trends Program, a standardized statewide stream monitoring project, for Brown Trout Salmo trutta over 20.3 cm total length and landscape-scale site predictor variables to generate a random forest model of Brown Trout presence or absence. The model had an overall error rate of 19% and was used to predict the presence and absence of Brown Trout in all Michigan stream segments (n = 68,123 stream segments). We evaluated model predictions using an independent data set containing 773 validation surveys. Validation surveys where Brown Trout were predicted present had catch rates 30% higher than validation surveys occurring at sites where Brown Trout were predicted absent, indicating biological relevance of model predictions. Comparisons with model predictions and recent Brown Trout stocking sites revealed that since 2002 Michigan has stocked nearly 9 million Brown Trout in streams our classification model predicted to be absent of Brown Trout over 20.3 cm, suggesting that field evaluation of those sites may be warranted to avoid ineffective use of resources. The model we developed can be used as a screening tool to identify the potential suitability of future stocking sites and prioritize existing stocking sites for field validation surveys to ensure efficient deployment of agency resources.
Mens rea, wrongdoing and digital advocacy in social media: Exploring quasi‐legal narratives during #deleteuber boycott
Authors: Illia Laura , Colleoni Elanor , Ranvidran Kiron , Ludovico Nuccio
Published: January 2022

#Boycotts represent digital advocacy attempts in which users publicly punish an organization as a lurata (i.e., jury), which assesses the guilty intent, the mens rea (i.e., guilty mind), from a set of visible acts, the actus reus (i.e., wrongdoings). Yet, we know little about the quasi‐legal narratives advocated by users. To this aim, we developed a mixed method study of the #deleteuber boycott on Twitter. Our findings suggest that while users advocate both an Uber‐specific and a shared mens rea of Uber with sharing economy firms or the tech giants of Silicon Valley, the latter narrative is the most prominent one; its use depends on whether users are part of a lurata of influencers or not. These findings provide a contribution to studies on public affairs that focus on online activism, boycotts in social media and digital advocacy because they increase our understanding of the opaque legal motivations that provoke boycotters. Also, they highlight that social media blurs the boundaries between boycotts directed at the firm from the boycotts arising indirectly due to the shameful acts of the industry or peers.
Effect of molecular weight on crystallization behavior of poly (lactic acid) under isotherm and non‐isotherm conditions
Authors: Zirak Nader , Shirinbayan Mohammadali , Farzaneh Sedigheh , Tcharkhtchi Abbas
Published: January 2022

The effect of molecular weight on the crystallization behavior of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) both isothermally and non‐isothermally was studied using differential scanning calorimetry and polarized optical microscopy. Two distinct crystal forms (α and α′) were investigated under normal conditions of crystallization for different molecular weights. Using microscopy, the growth rate of spherulites was measured and the nucleation rate was estimated. Heterogeneous nucleation and morphology with a variant α and α′ forms have been proposed. Spherulites from low molecular mass PLA contained more interlamellar amorphous phase. In addition, the results showed more rapid crystallization of α′ than the α form in isothermal conditions.
Prenatal imaging features and perinatal outcomes of foetal volvulus–A literature review
Authors: Shen Andrew Wang , Kothari Alka , Flint Anndrea , Kumar Sailesh
Published: January 2022

Objective

To conduct a review of the literature on foetal volvulus with emphasis on prenatal imaging, pregnancy characteristics and clinical outcomes.

Methods

A review of all published cases of foetal volvulus diagnosed prenatally and indexed in Medline, EBSCOhost, CINAHL, SOCIndex and Healthy Policy Reference Centre. Studies without antenatal sonographic signs of foetal volvulus and without a postpartum surgical diagnosis were excluded. Data were analysed for frequencies and distributions and tested for statistical significance.

Results

Eighty‐eight cases of foetal volvulus were identified from 58 published case reports/series. The most common ultrasound findings were dilated bowel/stomach (77.3%), polyhydramnios (30.7%) and whirlpool/snail sign (28.4%). Median gestation at diagnosis was 31.9 weeks (IQR 27–34) and mean gestation at delivery was 34.5 weeks (SD 2.8). Underlying aetiology included intestinal malrotation (15.9%), cystic fibrosis (14.8% of all cases, 32.5% of tested cases) and abnormal mesenteric fixation (12.5%). Complications included intestinal atresia (36.4%) and foetal anaemia (9.1%). The overall perinatal mortality rate was 14.5%.

Conclusion

Foetal volvulus is a rare condition with high rates of preterm birth and perinatal mortality. Intestinal malrotation and cystic fibrosis are common predisposing causes, although the majority are idiopathic. Bowel and/or gastric dilatation is by far the most common sonographic finding.
Clinical outcomes of preimplantation genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes: A systematic review
Authors: Vriesen Natalie , Carmany Erin P. , Natoli Jaime L.
Published: January 2022

Objective

To conduct a systematic review of the published literature on clinical outcomes following preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT‐M) for hereditary cancer syndromes (HCS).

Methods

Three electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE) were searched for publications related to PGT‐M for HCS. When appropriate, weighted means were used to calculate clinical and live birth rates.

Results

We identified 22 publications that reported on clinical and/or psychosocial outcomes of PGT‐M for HCS. The weighted mean clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) per embryo was 33.5% (11 studies, 95% CI: 29.1%, 38.2%), and the CPR per cycle with embryonic transfer was 40.1% (14 studies, 95% CI: 36.1%, 44.3%). The weighted mean live birth rate (LBR) per embryo was 28.9% (11 studies, 95% CI: 24.7%, 33.4%) and the LBR per cycle with embryonic transfer was 33.2% (13 studies, 95% CI: 29.2%, 37.4%). The limited literature regarding the psychosocial outcomes of PGT‐M for HCS suggests reproductive decision‐making is difficult and additional support may be desired.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that CPR and LBR following PGT‐M for HCS are comparable to other monogenic disorders. Heterogeneity across studies suggests the overall CPR and LBR found may not be applicable to all HCS indications and PGT‐M methodologies.
Holistic design improvement of the PV module frame: Mechanical, optoelectrical, cost, and life cycle analysis
Authors: Tummalieh Ammar , Beinert Andreas J. , Reichel Christian , Mittag Max , Neuhaus Holger
Published: January 2022

We present a holistic approach for the photovoltaic (PV) module frame improvement that considers mechanical, electrical, economic, and ecological aspects for different frame designs. In a comprehensive study, the approach is applied to exemplary PV module frame designs. The analyses performed in this study show a potential improvement path of the module frame design. This leads to an overall better module performance and helps finding the balance point between technical performance, cost, and environmental impact. Based on the results, the PV module frame design affects the aspects analyzed in this work differently. For the comparison, we defined reference frame design with 16 and 20 mm front and rear frame widths. The improvement is reached by unitizing the frame width for both sides to 18 mm and increasing its cavity width to 12 mm instead of 8.5 mm. Tuning the frame parameters in this way leads to the best balance point for frame designs in this study regarding all aspects. The mechanical finite element method (FEM) simulation results show that even a small change on the frame width has a significant influence on the stress within the solar cells. Compared with the reference frame, the optimized frame design shows 2.6% less deflection, which corresponds to around 0.7 mm. Cell‐to‐module (CTM) analysis shows that a bigger frame width lightly decreases the cover coupling power gain. Results show that increasing the front frame width from 16 to 20 mm reduces the module power by about 0.12 WP. Findings of the cost of ownership (COO) analysis suggest that the optimized frame can save around 30 g aluminum which reduces the total module cost by 0.1%. Life cycle assessment (LCA) results are directly correlated to the material mass of the corresponding design. Results show that using the optimized frame can save 0.8 kg CO2‐eq/kWP due to the saving in aluminum compared with the reference frame.
Tracheobronchitis in children with tracheostomy tubes: Overview of a challenging problem
Authors: Gipsman Alexander , Prero Moshe , Toltzis Philip , Craven Daniel
Published: January 2022

Tracheobronchitis is common in children with tracheostomy tubes. These children are predisposed to respiratory infections due to the bypassing of normal upper airway defense mechanisms by the tracheostomy, bacterial colonization of the tracheostomy tube itself, and underlying medical conditions. Diagnosis of bacterial tracheobronchitis is challenging due to the difficulty in differentiating between bacterial colonization and infection, as well as between viral and bacterial etiologies. Difficulty in diagnosis complicates management decisions, and there are currently no consensus guidelines to assist clinicians in the treatment of these patients. Frequent administration of systemic antibiotics causes adverse effects and leads to the emergence of resistant organisms. Topical administration of antibiotics via nebulization or direct instillation may lead to a significantly higher concentration of drug in the upper and lower airways without causing systemic side effects, although therapeutic trials in children with tracheostomy tubes are lacking. Several preventative measures such as regular airway clearance and the use of a speaking valve may mitigate the risk of developing respiratory infections.
Thermodynamic integration combined with molecular dynamic simulations to explore the cross‐resistance mechanism of isoniazid and ethionamide
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Yang Yuwei , Gong Xiaoqing , Zhao Nannan , Zhang Yang , Liu Huanxiang
Published: January 2022

Tuberculosis is an ancient disease of mankind, and its causative bacterium is Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Isoniazid is one of the most effective first‐line antituberculosis drugs. As prodrugs, it and its derivative ethionamide act on enoyl‐acyl carrier protein reductase (InhA) after being oxidized in bacteria, and kill the bacteria by inhibiting the formation of M. tuberculosis cell walls. However, the S94A mutation of InhA causes M. tuberculosis to develop cross‐resistance to isoniazid and ethionamide. This work is dedicated to studying the cross‐resistance mechanism of isoniazid and ethionamide through theoretical calculations. First, thermodynamic integral simulations are used to accurately calculate the relative binding energy of two drugs in the mutant and wild‐type system. Furthermore, through classic molecular dynamic simulations and molecular mechanics generalized‐Born surface area calculation, some key residues are identified and the binding affinity of isoniazid and ethionamide reduced by 9–13 kcal/mol due to S94A mutation. The hydrogen bond between Ala94 and isoniazid (ethionamide) disappeared and the energy contribution of Ala94 decreased after the mutation. In addition, the dynamic network analysis indicated that the mutation of Ser94 also indirectly affected the conformation of key residues such as Met147, Thr196, and Leu97, resulting in a reduction in the energy contribution of these residues. Finally, the binding conformation of isoniazid and ethionamide has also undergone major changes. The obtained results could provide valuable information for the future molecular design to overcome the drug resistance.
PFAS Experts Symposium 2: Key advances in poly‐ and perfluoroalkyl characterization, fate, and transport
Authors: Bryant J. Daniel , Anderson Richard , Bolyard Stephanie C. , Bradburne J. Tim , Brusseau Mark L. , Carey Grant , Chiang Dora , Gwinn Rosa , Hoye Brian R. , Maher Thomas L. , McGrath Angus E. , Schroeder Matthew , Thompson Bruce R. , Woodward David
Published: January 2022

The PFAS Experts Symposium 2, held virtually from June 29 to July 1, 2021, brought together experts from a wide range of disciplines to discuss recent advances and current thinking regarding per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the environment. Within the general areas of characterization and fate and transport, three topics were identified that are of relevance for site assessment and remediation, and for which our understanding has greatly expanded or evolved since the first PFAS Experts Symposium in 2019: the significance of background PFAS sources to the environment, the relevance and use of nonselective analytes in site characterization, and PFAS retention in soil and the vadose zone. PFAS have been identified in shallow soil nearly worldwide, including far from known or suspected PFAS sources, and PFAS detected in soil and groundwater at sites under environmental investigation may not reflect on‐site sources. New advances in nonselective preparation and analytical methods offer promise for more rapid site screening and for assessing the presence and relative concentration of nontargeted PFAS. We also now recognize that a wide range of soil characteristics and processes may affect PFAS sorption and desorption from soil, and ultimately influence PFAS mobility and concentration in groundwater and surface water.
Naturalising a heavily modified urban river: Initial habitat evolution in the Manzanares River (Madrid, Spain)
Authors: Díaz‐Redondo María , Marchamalo Miguel , Morcillo Felipe , King James J.
Published: January 2022

Between the 1910s and 1960s, the segment of the Manzanares River in the city of Madrid was channelized to allow for intensive urban development and a series of barrages were built to maintain constant water levels and create the aesthetic of a large deep river. As part of a renaturalisation strategy for the river by the Madrid City Council, the complete opening of the barrages' hydraulic gates in spring 2016 allowed for natural physical processes to occur that, in turn, facilitated colonisation of newly‐formed habitats by vegetation and fauna. The present study evaluates the initial effects of the barrage gate openings on instream habitats through the analysis of (i) geomorphological, physico‐chemical and vegetation metrics, and (ii) hydraulic variables associated with potential preferential conditions for native fish fauna, whose populations were greatly diminished. This approach incorporates an integrative view of the multivariate nature of the fluvial ecosystem. Results show a substantial reactivation of habitat heterogeneity over a short timeframe. In addition, newly‐emerging habitat conditions, related to sediment activation, improved water quality and diversified hydraulic conditions, are promoting potential preferential habitats for native fish fauna. This study can help aquatic researchers and administrators in understanding how an urban river can evolve with a cost‐effective intervention focused on the recovery of self‐forming dynamics. This application of process‐based river restoration strategies to a heavily modified river can also lead to the improvement of its ecological potential, as required by the European Union's Water Framework Directive.
Research on High‐Precision Transverse Thickness Difference Control Strategy Based on Data Mining in 6‐High Tandem Cold Rolling Mills
Authors: Wang Yan-Wen , Cao Jian-Guo , Song Chun-Ning , Wang Lei-Lei , Sun Lin , Xie Da , Lu Yu-Long
Published: January 2022

To meet the “dead flat” transverse thickness profile requirement of electrical steel strip in 5‐stand 6‐high universal crown mill (UCM) tandem cold rolling mills, a random forest predictive model for electrical steel strip profile is established to reduce the dimension of the data and make predictions for the strip transverse thickness difference (TTD), based on the collected and processed real‐time data of the steel strip transverse thickness profile and multi‐methods of the industrial production mills. The control strategy of multi‐methods including positive and negative hydraulic work roll bending system (WRB), positive hydraulic intermediate roll bending system (IRB), and hydraulic intermediate roll shifting system (IRS) of different stands in 5‐stand 6‐high mills is proposed by comprehensively considering association rules mining which shows the optimal combination of ranges of key control parameters and analysis of 5‐stand 6‐high mills with the developed edge drop control work rolls for non‐shifting of work rolls (EDW‐N) with divided width groups technology on stand No. 1 and No. 2. The strategy is continuously and stably applied to 1420 mm 5‐stand 6‐high UCM tandem cold rolling mills and shows remarkable results. The rate of TTD less than or equal to 7 μm increases from 38.58% to 67.74%.
Prediction on the Distributions of the Strength and Toughness of Thick Steel Plates Based on Bayesian Neural Network
Authors: Kim Cheolhyeong , Shin Jin Young , Roh Jong-won , Hwang Hyung Ju
Published: January 2022

In the past decades, several artificial intelligence techniques have been applied on regression tasks during the steelmaking process, achieving accurate point estimations. However, models for predicting targets with their uncertainties have been rarely applied to the steelmaking domain due to a computational and a technical limit of Bayesian neural networks (BNN) in the past. Recently, many tractable BNN models have been proposed for predicting the uncertainties in steelmaking, thanks to advances in neural networks. The most convenient and computationally efficient one is a Monte‐Carlo dropout (MC dropout), which interprets the distribution of the neural networks created by a dropout from a Bayesian perspective. In this article, we propose to apply MC dropout on a steelmaking process data of Pohang Iron and Steel Co. and predict two targets and their uncertainties: the strength and the toughness of thick steel plates. This article is widely applicable to other process data, and it is expected to reduce costs for defective products in the future through an uncertainty estimation.
Effects of Zr Distribution on High‐Temperature Oxidation Resistance of a FeCrAlZr Alloy
Authors: Li Jian , Cao Guangming , Jiang Yuchen , Ma Xuzhao , Li Chenggang , Liu Zhenyu
Published: January 2022

Two FeCrAlZr alloys are fabricated by twin‐roll strip casting (TRSC) and ingot casting (IC), and different Zr distributions are formed. After cyclic oxidation tests at 1200 °C for 200 h in air, it is found that the scale spallation resistance in the FeCrAlZr alloy is improved by homogenizing the Zr distribution by TRSC. To understand the improvement in oxidation resistance, the composition and microstructure of the thermally grown scales are investigated. During oxidation, Zr diffuses toward the scale and forms ZrO2 particles in the scale and at the surface of the oxide scale. Meanwhile, the outward diffusion of Zr inhibits the formation of interfacial voids and S segregation regardless of Zr distribution. However, the TRSC sample with a more uniform Zr distribution can form the high‐density oxide penetrations, keying the scale to the matrix and improving scale adhesion. The Zr fluxes toward the scales are calculated to explain the difference in the distribution of oxide penetrations in the TRSC and IC samples during oxidation.
Measurements of Liquid AISI 304L Steel Density and Surface Tension, and Influence of Surface‐Active Elements at High Temperatures
Authors: Delacroix Jules , Piluso Pascal , Chikhi Nourdine , Asserin Olivier , Borel Damien , Brosse Alexandre , Cadiou Stephen
Published: January 2022

Within the framework of the welding of steel components in pressurized water reactors, the optimization of the weld pool penetration is a major issue. The thermal‐hydraulics of the molten steel pool can be driven by Marangoni flows at the free surface. To compute these flows, liquid steel's thermophysical properties such as density ρ and surface tension σ are required. Such properties for austenitic vessel steel AISI 304L at liquid state are scarce, and even not available above 1800 °C, due to technological issues. The viscometer temperature installation (VITI) is designed to implement sessile droplet (SD) and maximum bubble pressure (MBP) techniques. These techniques allow to determine original ρ and σ data for two grades of AISI 304L steel, namely 304LP1 and 304LP4—low and high sulfur content, at various temperatures. In particular, thanks to the innovative design of MBP configuration, original surface tension data are obtained from the melting point up to 2100 °C. For the first time, experimental evidence of the Sahoo et al.'s (1988) model at high temperature is provided, emphasizing the decisive role played by surface‐active elements such as sulfur and oxygen on surface tension, whose content evolution is assessed by dedicated chemical analyses.
Effect of Extrusion and Konjac Flour Addition on the Antioxidant Activity, Structural Properties, and In vitro Digestibility of Extruded Oat–Corn Flour
Authors: Huo Rui , Zhang Meili , Guo Xinyue , Zhang Yakun , Zhang Yuanyuan , Bai Xue , Zhang Jing
Published: January 2022

Oat–corn extruded powder is prepared to explore the effect of co‐extrusion with konjac flour on the structural properties and functional properties of the mixed powder for a reduced starch digestion rate. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), antioxidant activity, and in vitro digestibility are applied for analysis. SEM images after extrusion treatment show irregularity of the surface with some cracks and grooves. XRD and FT‐IR results show that the A‐type crystal structure disappears after extrusion, and the in vitro digestibility is improved but not significantly (p > 0.05). After different amounts of konjac flour and oat and corn mixed powder are added for co‐extrusion, the surface microstructure is relatively rough, the pores of the mixed system are reduced, the crystal form is V‐shaped. The starch digestion rate is significantly decreased (p < 0.05). The mixed powder with the addition of 5–15% konjac flour is a low GI material. It can be used as a raw material for meal replacement products.
Global talent management during the COVID‐19 pandemic? The Gods must be crazy!
Authors: Fernandes Cristina , Veiga Pedro Mota , Lobo Carla Azevedo , Raposo Mario
Published: January 2022

The ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic has brought terrifying effects for labor markets all around the world. Just as we witness rapid changes in terms of the ways of working (working from home), we are also observing an increase in unemployment. The ways in which major corporations with international operations process their global talent management (GTM) already represents a challenge in relatively stable times and clearly, in a period of such great and sustained turbulence as current experienced, this task becomes still more difficult. Hence, our research aims to study the impact of GTM on the international performance of major companies during the COVID‐19 pandemic period. To this end, we surveyed a sample of 59 large companies that act in external markets. Through recourse to multiple linear regressions, we conclude that GTM practices return positive impacts on levels of international performance. Our research returns theoretical implications in terms of the application of integrated GTM models and with the results of significant relevance to corporations operating internationally, and thus enabling them to better understand which strategic human resource management policies will return the best GTM results.
Evaluating the effect of wind turbine faults on power using the Monte Carlo method
Authors: Biazar Dariush , Khaloozadeh Hamid , Siahi Mehdi
Published: January 2022

Component damage and failure in sensor or actuator will cause system faults, resulting in reduced or lost performance. This topic has become an interesting and challenging issue that if we know the effect of faults on variables, control schemes can be designed to reduce the effect of faults on the system. Therefore, the quantification of the effect of the faults is very valuable in improving the performance of wind turbines. In this paper, the effect of some important faults is investigated in the three parts: rotor, drive, and power on the output power and the measured variables of wind turbines in the partial and full load regions using the Monte Carlo method. Then, the severity of these faults on the output power is ranked in the two regions by importance factor (IF). Also, due to the fact that some faults cause structural stress due to severe changes in the angle of the blades or their asymmetry, so the stresses caused by faults are discussed. The results show that these faults severity on the output power and the measured variables of wind turbines is different in the two regions. Our conclusion provides an opportunity for wind power plant operators and investors to improve plant performance and scheduled repairs by knowing the effect of faults on wind turbine variables. Knowing effect of the faults or the severity of each of them can increase the operating time of the wind turbine and reduce costs.
Perceptions of Catastrophic Climate Risks
Authors: Botzen Wouter
Published: January 2022

Many climate change-related risks, such as more frequent and severe natural disasters, can be characterised as low-probability/high-consequence (LP/HC) events. Perceptions of LP/HC risks are often associated with biases which hamper taking action to limit these risks, such as underestimation of risk, myopia, and the adoption of simplified decision heuristics. This chapter discusses these biases and outlines key elements of policies to overcome them in order to enhance climate action.
Determinants of Belief – And Unbelief – In Climate Change
Authors: Leiser David , Wagner-Egger Pascal
Published: January 2022

Climate change is a most serious challenge. Committing the needed resources requires that a clear majority of citizens approves the appropriate policies, since committing resources necessarily involve a trade-off with other expenses. However, there are distinct groups of people who remain in denial about the realities of climatic change. This chapter presents a range of psychological and social phenomena that together explain the phenomena that lead to denial.
Crossing antisymmetric Polyakov blocks + dispersion relation
Authors: Kaviraj Apratim
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Many CFT problems, e.g. ones with global symmetries, have correlation functions with a crossing antisymmetric sector. We show that such a crossing antisymmetric function can be expanded in terms of manifestly crossing antisymmetric objects, which we call the ‘+ type Polyakov blocks’. These blocks are built from AdSd+1Witten diagrams. In 1d they encode the ‘+ type’ analytic functionals which act on crossing antisymmetric functions. In generaldwe establish this Witten diagram basis from a crossing antisymmetric dispersion relation in Mellin space. Analogous to the crossing symmetric case, the dispersion relation imposes a set of independent ‘locality constraints’ in addition to the usual CFT sum rules given by the ‘Polyakov conditions’. We use the Polyakov blocks to simplify more general analytic functionals ind >1 and global symmetry functionals.