bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supramolecular Arrangement and DFT analysis of Zinc(II) Schiff Bases: An Insight towards the Influence of Compartmental Ligands on Binding Interaction with Protein
Authors: Chowdhury Megha Sen , Gumus Selcuk , Dasgupta Sanchari , Majumder Ishani , Bhattacharya Abir , Das Debasis , Mukhopadhyay Jayanta , Bose Debosreeta , Dasgupta Saumya , Akinay Yuksel , Mukhopadhyay Madhumita
Published: June 2022

We report, for the first time, a detailed crystallographic study of the supramolecular arrangement for a set of zinc(II) Schiff base complexes containing the ligand 2,6‐bis((E)‐((2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl)imino)methyl)‐4‐R‐phenol], where R=methyl/tert‐butyl/chloro. The supramolecular study acts as a pre‐screening tool for selecting the compartmental ligand R of the Schiff base for effective binding with a targeted protein, bovine serum albumin (BSA). The most stable hexagonal arrangement of the complex [Zn−Me] (R=Me) stabilises the ligand with the highest FMO energy gap (ΔE=4.22 eV) and lowest number of conformations during binding with BSA. In contrast, formation of unstable 3D columnar vertebra for [Zn−Cl] (R=Cl) tend to activate the system with lowest FMO gap (3.75 eV) with highest spontaneity factor in molecular docking. Molecular docking analyses reported in terms of 2D LigPlot+ identified site A, a cleft of domains IB, IIIA and IIIB, as the most probable protein binding site of BSA. Arg144, Glu424, Ser428, Ile455 and Lys114 form the most probable interactions irrespective of the type of compartmental ligands R of the Schiff base whereas Arg185, Glu519, His145, Ile522 act as the differentiating residues with ΔG=−7.3 kcal mol−1.
A Racemic Naphthyl‐Coumarin‐Based Probe for Quantitative Enantiomeric Excess Analysis of Amino Acids and Enantioselective Sensing of Amines and Amino Alcohols
Authors: Li Jia‐Yi , Wang Li , Yin Li‐Ping , Jiang Xin‐Meng , Guo Kai , Zhang Chun , Yu Shan‐Shan , Yu Xiao‐Qi , Wang Qin
Published: June 2022

A new racemic naphthyl‐coumarin‐based probe was found to bind covalently with amino acids in MeOH‐KOH system and thereby generates distinct CD responses. The induced strong CD signals allowed quantitative enantiomeric excess analysis of amino acids and enantioselective sensing of amines and amino alcohols. The mechanism for the reaction of the coumarin‐aldehyde probe with an amino acid was investigated by CD, UV‐Vis, NMR, ESI‐MS analyses and ECD calculation.
Obesity treatment initiation, retention, and outcomes in the Veterans Affairs MOVE! Program among rural and urban veterans
Authors: Robinson Kathleen M. , Vander Weg Mark , Laroche Helena H. , Carrel Margaret , Wachsmuth Jason , Kazembe Krista , Vaughan Sarrazin Mary
Published: June 2022

Objective

Rural veterans have high obesity rates. Yet, little is known about this population's engagement with the Veterans Affairs (VA) weight management program (MOVE!). The study objective is to determine whether MOVE! enrollment, anti‐obesity medication use, bariatric surgery use, retention, and outcomes differ by rurality for veterans with severe obesity.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study using Veterans Health Administration patient databases, including VA patients with severe obesity during 2015–2017. Patients were categorized using Rural‐Urban Commuting Area codes. Primary outcomes included proportion of patients and risk‐adjusted likelihood of initiating VA MOVE!, anti‐obesity medication, or bariatric surgery and risk‐adjusted highly rural|Hazard Ratio (HR) of any obesity treatment. Secondary outcomes included treatment retention (≥12 weeks) and successful weight loss (5%) among patients initiating MOVE!, and risk‐adjusted odds of retention and successful weight loss.

Results

Among 640,555 eligible veterans, risk‐adjusted relative likelihood of MOVE! treatment was significantly lower for rural and HR veterans (HR = 0.83, HR = 0.67, respectively). Initiation rates of anti‐obesity medication use were significantly lower as well, whereas bariatric surgery rates, retention, and successful weight loss did not differ.

Conclusions

Overall treatment rates with MOVE!, bariatric surgery, and anti‐obesity medications remain low. Rural veterans are less likely to enroll in MOVE! and less likely to receive anti‐obesity medications than urban veterans.
Graphitized Loofah Sponge‐Derived Carbon for Supercapacitors with Superior Volumetric Capacitance
Authors: Zhu Yuxin , Zhang Yunqiang , Li Mei , Peng Dan , Mu Qiuhong , Zhang Changbin
Published: June 2022

Biomass‐derived carbons (BDCs) have achieved huge improvements in pore structures and performance when prepared by chemical activation, resulting in single pore distribution and deteriorating electrical conductivity yet. It is the greatest challenge to obtain high graphitization BDCs with attractive electrochemical performance at high mass loading of active materials. Partially graphitized loofah sponge‐derived carbon (CLC) is successfully prepared by metal ion‐assisted activation and high‐temperature annealing, exhibiting a high specific surface area of 1133.8 m2 g−1 and rich nitrogen and oxygen content. Attributing to the structural advantages and the retained macropore network, the CLC loaded with 10 mg cm−2 demonstrated a volumetric capacitance (CV) of 1 188.8  F cm−3 at a current density of 0.2 A g−1 and an impressive capacitance retention of 97.7% after 15,000 charge/discharge cycles. This work proposes an economical and feasible synthetic route for the preparation of highly graphitized BDCs, offering the possibility of large‐scale synthesis of ideal performance supercapacitor (SCs) electrode materials.
Application of vibrational signals to study and manipulate an insect vector: the case of Philaenus spumarius (Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae)
Authors: Avosani Sabina , Ciolli Marco , Verrastro Vincenzo , Mazzoni Valerio
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

Vibrational stimuli can support pest management as they provide environmentally friendly methods to manipulate insect pest behaviors. Different vibrational stimuli were used to study and influence the behavior of the meadow spittlebug, Philaenus spumarius, the European vector of Xylella fastidiosa. In playback experiments, we tested the reactions of the spittlebug toward the male calling signals (test 1) and the male–male signal (test 2). In test 3, we evaluated the use of conspecific signals and noises to repel insects/disrupt mating.

RESULTS

Test 1 provided new insights regarding the role of the male calling signal in intraspecific communication, in particular that this signal likely does not underlie aggregation or aggression toward conspecifics. Test 2 demonstrated that the male–male signal is used by males to express distress when physically interacting, whilst, when played back into a host plant, it has not any repellent effect on the spittlebug. Test 3A suggested that males exploit short silence gaps to localize the signaling partner, while test 3B showed that a continuous noise with a specific frequency range successfully disrupt mating, as only one male out of 20 localized the female on the plant.

CONCLUSION

Playbacks obtained from prerecorded P. spumarius' signals were successfully used to accomplish ethological studies; even so, this approach did not show a real potential to be used as a control strategy. However, noises designed to mask the spittlebug signals significantly disrupted species mating and could integrate other techniques aimed at reducing the spread of X. fastidiosa after appropriate implementation. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Development of an effective hydrogel bait and an assessment of community‐wide management targeting the invasive white‐footed ant, Technomyrmex brunneus
Authors: Sunamura Eiriki , Terayama Mamoru , Fujimaki Ryota , Ono Takashi , Buczkowski Grzegorz , Eguchi Katsuyuki
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

Ants are one of the most serious household pests. White‐footed ants in the genus Technomyrmex (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) are invasive species of increasing global importance as evidenced by recent range expansion, nuisance pest status in residential areas and control difficulties driven mainly by lack of effective bait products. The goal for the current study was to develop an effective hydrogel bait and community‐wide management program for controlling the invasive T. brunneus in a residential area of Hachijo Island, Japan.

RESULTS

In laboratory insecticide screening, hydrogel baits containing thiamethoxam achieved higher T. brunneus mortality than those containing dinotefuran, imidacloprid, boric acid or fipronil at the concentrations tested. Hydrogel baits containing 0.01% and 0.001% thiamethoxam resulted in ≥90% mortality within seven days. However, the horizontal transfer effect was not strong with either concentration. Field experiments confirmed that hydrogel baits containing 10% and 30% sugar are highly attractive to T. brunneus. The community‐wide treatment utilizing hydrogel bait containing 0.001% thiamethoxam and 30% sugar significantly suppressed T. brunneus. Town residents were given the opportunity to participate in the program by applying hydrogel baits around their homes, and a follow‐up survey revealed that the residents regarded hydrogel baits as easy to apply and highly attractive and effective against T. brunneus.

CONCLUSION

The hydrogel bait and management program developed in this study can be used to suppress T. brunneus. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that a large network of highly motivated and properly trained members of the public can be highly effective in managing invasive ant populations. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Commercial‐scale remediation of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances from a landfill leachate catchment using Surface‐Active Foam Fractionation (SAFF®)
Authors: Burns David J. , Hinrichsen Helena M. , Stevenson Paul , Murphy Peter J. C.
Published: June 2022

This article presents the results from a commercial‐scale field trial of the Surface‐Active Foam Fractionation (SAFF) process for the removal of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from a landfill leachate catchment at the Telge Recycling plant, Sweden. There have been 23 sampling events for PFAS influent and effluent concentrations over the course of 10 months, during which approximately 80,000 m3 of leachate feed has been successfully treated without the need for complex pretreatment. The contracted throughput was 330 m3 per day (120,000 m3/year), but, in practice, it varied between 200 m3 and 500 m3 per day depending upon the inventory of the upstream leachate catchment. Over the trial period, it was demonstrated that SAFF was successful in removing ≥98.7% perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), ≥99.7% perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and ≥98.8% perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) from the feed stream without using absorbent media or chemical amendment consumables, including the partial/significant removal of other PFAS species. The reported removal percentages are constrained by the limit of reporting (LOR) of analytical testing of the “treated stream”; the actual removal percentages could be higher as detailed by a single sampling event “I” included herein. The mean concentrations of the treated stream were ≤2.34 ng/L PFOS, ≤1.28 ng/L PFOA, and ≤1.00 ng/L PFHxS; the contractual criteria requirement was to reduce PFOS to <50 ng/L. The results are concordant with those obtained by Burns et al. (2021) who demonstrated that SAFF technology removed ≥99.8% PFOS, ≥99.8% PFOA, and ≥98.4% PFHxS from a PFAS‐contaminated groundwater stream at the Army Aviation Centre Oakey military base in Australia. The present study extends what was learned from the previous Australian groundwater study in that there is more complex chemistry associated with the leachate feed stream arising from landfill receipt of domestic, commercial, and industrial waste to the landfill cells. In addition, the climatic dependency that was considered by Burns et al. (2021) is explored in a colder environment and is found to be practically insignificant with respect to PFAS removal. Burns et al. (2021) asserted that nearly complete PFAS removal is achieved if the Brusseau adsorption coefficient is greater than approximately 1 µm. The present study extends this analysis to demonstrate that removal percentages fall to approximately 0 at an adsorption coefficient of 0.02 µm with a functional form of a sigmoid on semi‐log axes. A full set of third‐party laboratory test certificates are provided in the Supporting Information.
Deep learning with RGB and thermal images onboard a drone for monitoring operations
Authors: Speth Simon , Gonçalves Artur , Rigault Bastien , Suzuki Satoshi , Bouazizi Mondher , Matsuo Yutaka , Prendinger Helmut
Published: June 2022

This article describes the artificial intelligence (AI) component of a drone for monitoring and patrolling tasks associated with disaster relief missions in specific restricted disaster scenarios, as specified by the Advanced Robotics Foundation in Japan. The AI component uses deep learning models for environment recognition and object detection. For environment recognition, we use semantic segmentation, or pixel‐wise labeling, based on RGB images. Object detection is key for detecting and locating people in need. Since people are relatively small objects from the drone perspective, we use both RGB and thermal images. To train our models, we created a novel multispectral and publicly available data set of people. We used a geo‐location method to locate people on the ground. The semantic segmentation models were extensively tested using different feature extractors. We created two dedicated data sets, which we have made publicly available. Compared with the baseline model, the best‐performing model could increase the mean intersection over union (IoU) by 1.3%. Furthermore, we compared two types of person detection models. The first one is an ensemble model that combines RGB and thermal information via “late fusion”; the second one is a 4‐channel model that combines these two types of information in an “early fusion” manner. The results suggest that the 4‐channel model had a 40.6% increase of average precision for stricter IoU values (0.75) compared with the ensemble model and a 5.8% increase in the average precision compared with the thermal model. All models were deployed and tested on the NVIDIA AGX Xavier platform. To the best of our knowledge, this study was the first to use both RGB and thermal data from the perspective of a drone for monitoring tasks.
Autonomous hanging tether management and experimentation for an unmanned air‐surface vehicle team
Authors: Talke Kurt , Birchmore Frederick , Bewley Thomas
Published: June 2022

The mission of an unmanned air vehicle (UAV) tethered to a small unmanned surface vehicle (USV) is considered. As opposed to the majority of existing tethered UAV work, which assumes a taut tether, this paper addresses the challenge of tether management for a slack, hanging tether in a dynamic ocean environment up to sea state 4 on the Douglas scale. A prototype smart reel system for a UAV–USV team was designed and experimentally validated in controlled and uncontrolled dynamic environments. A reference model for tether control based on static catenary cable theory was extended and shown to be valid through the entire operational envelop. A Kalman filter was developed to fuse slow (4 Hz) differential GPS (dGPS) relative position measurements with fast (100 Hz) inertial measurements, to output a 100 Hz estimate of relative position, relative velocity, and inertial sensor bias. A relative velocity‐based gain‐scheduled proportional‐derivative (PD) controller was developed, and demonstrated robustness to heave, pitch, and roll motion of the USV. Experimental testing with a UAV surrogate showed successful decoupling of heave motion from the UAV altitude in a controlled indoor environment. Taut tether control, in contrast, exhibited 12 times more tether tension at the UAV compared to the controller proposed here. The performance of the tuned controller with feedback from the Kalman filter exhibited minimal deviation from static catenary cable theory during the dynamic experiments. Indoor flight testing showed the developed reference model and controller essentially decoupled the dynamic motion of the USV from that of the UAV; the measured deflections of the UAV altitude and position essentially matched that of untethered flight. Outdoor flights validated the effectiveness of the controller in an unknown dynamic environment, for a larger relative position between the UAV and USV, using the dGPS Kalman filter solution to measure relative position. Initial experimental results look promising for continued on‐water testing of hanging‐tether UAV/USV teams.
Effect of Temperature and MgCl2 Concentration on the Catalytic Pyrolysis of Malt Waste Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Silva Lucas D. , Lira Taisa S. , Xavier Thiago P. , Barrozo Marcos A. S. , Dantas Sandra C. , Silvério Beatriz C. , Santos K. G.
Published: June 2022

In the search of new energy sources, this work aimed to investigate the pyrolysis of malt waste, the major by‐product generated from the brewing industry, to produce biochar and bio‐oil. The study also explored the effects of pyrolysis temperature and concentration of MgCl2 catalyst on the yields of bio‐oil, biochar and pyrolytic gas. The pyrolysis products were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The effects of the studied variables on the yields and quality of the pyrolysis products were quantified using regression technique. It was found that the use of MgCl2 favored dehydration reactions and generated biochar and bio‐oil with less oxygen and greater calorific value, thus improving their use as a fuel. In addition, the MgCl2 accelerated the formation of intermediate compounds at low temperatures, changed the reaction pathways and decreased the reaction complexity, consequently reducing the activation energy value and the order of reactions.
An Overview of Molecularly Imprinted Polymers Embedded with Quantum Dots and Their Implementation as an Alternative Approach for Extraction and Detection of Crocin
Authors: ul Gani Mir Tahir , Malik Azad Qayoom , Singh Jaskaran , Shukla Saurabh , Kumar Deepak
Published: June 2022

Molecularly imprinting polymer (MIPs) is an emerging technology that could provide an alternative path to produce receptor‐like binding sites. The technology involves complex bond formation between target molecules (templates), and functional monomers can occur insolvent. MIPS embedded with Quantum Dots (QDs) as a sensor is used for extraction and detection of various compounds. QDs have fluorescence properties and electronic characteristics such as comprehensive and continuous absorption spectra, narrow emission spectra, and high light resistance. Crocin is the major metabolite obtained from saffron (Crocus sativus). It is widely used as an antioxidant, antidiabetic, antitumor, and anticancer agent. According to recent studies, crocin has been used for drug delivery to treat various diseases. Therefore, the isolation, extraction and detection of crocin from saffron are of prime importance. Developing a selective extraction and detection technique for crocin would assist in its separation and purification easily from saffron stigmas. MIPs encapsulated with QDs is a promising tool for the extraction and detection of various compound, and this technique could also be employed for crocin. In this review, a brief summary of MIPs, QDs and MIP‐QDs sensors has been summarised. Moreover, an effort has been made to review how MIPs encapsulated with QDs can be used as the best alternative for efficiently extracting and detecting crocin.
Nanotechnology for Therapy of Zoonotic Diseases: A Comprehensive Overview
Authors: Arshad Rabia , Sargazi Saman , Fatima Iqra , Mobashar Aisha , Rahdar Abbas , Ajalli Narges , Kyzas George Z.
Published: June 2022

Zoonotic infections belong to multiple infectious diseases transferred from animals to humans. Now, the treatment and diagnosis of zoonotic infections are perplexing due to genetic mutations, target site modifications, and multi‐drug resistance. Despite their benefits, most diagnostic molecular techniques have certain limits in terms of repeatability and sensitivity, mainly due to the heterogeneity among the diverse family of zoonotic pathogens. Therefore, developing more efficient and cost‐effective theranostics tools is the need of the hour to address these concerns. For this purpose, nanotechnology has revolutionized medicine with versatile potential capabilities for diagnosing and treating zoonosis via the targeted and controlled delivery of antimicrobial drugs via binding to the overexpressed infectious macrophages. Massive advancements have been made in fabricating novel nano‐based formulations to control zoonosis based on the use of poly(ethylenimine)‐conjugated nanomicelles, mannosylated thiolated chitosan (MTC)‐coated PM‐loaded PLGA NPs, mannose linked thiolated nanocarriers, adjuvanted pDNA hydrogel, arginine‐based nanocarriers, quantum dots to treat and diagnose a wide range of zoonotic diseases, including zoonotic influenza, salmonellosis, leishmaniasis, rabies, brucellosis, Lyme Disease, tuberculosis, and other infections caused by West Nile Virus, emerging coronaviruses (SARS, MERS, COVID‐19), in a preferentially targeted way. Recently developed anti‐pathogen loaded‐nanoformulations with enhanced cellular uptake, biocompatibility, and hemocompatibility have shown the ability to cross biological barriers when orally administrated. Therefore, this article reviewed the latest milestones and future growth areas in the field of efficient theranostics platforms to manage zoonotic infections.
High‐performance Mg2+ Sensors Based on Natural Rubber‐derived, Label‐free Carbon Dots
Authors: Phetcharee Kulpriya , Sirisit Natee , Amonpattaratkit Penphitcha , Manyam Jedsada , Paoprasert Peerasak
Published: June 2022

Detection of trace magnesium ion (Mg2+) is important in environmental and health monitoring. In this work, high‐performance Mg2+ sensor was developed from label‐free carbon dots. The novel carbon dots were prepared for the first time from natural rubber through the two‐step pyrolysis and hydrothermal method. They showed selectivity towards Mg2+ against a range of metal ions in solution and yielded a detection limit of 4.3 μM. The Mg2+ detection in real water samples showed an excellent recovery of 97.21 to 99.21 %. A paper‐based sensor was also fabricated as a portable device, showing a detection limit of 8.0 μM. UV‐vis and X‐ray absorption studies provided some evidences of the unique dynamic interactions between carbon dots and Mg2+ ions. In summary, the novelty of this work lies upon (i) developing a methodology of converting abundant, low‐cost natural rubber into carbon dots and (ii) fabricating sensitive and selective sensors from the label‐free carbon dots for the detection of Mg2+ both in solution and as paper‐based devices. The findings in this work will therefore have potential for environmental and health monitoring applications.
Impact of value co‐creation in the artificial intelligence innovation ecosystem on competitive advantage and innovation intelligibility
Authors: Sun Yu , Xu Xiaobo , Yu Haiqing , Wang Hecheng
Published: June 2022

Artificial intelligence has been widely adopted for digital transformation and value creation for enterprises. However, studies about how participants can co‐create value in the AI innovation ecosystem are needed. Thus, this research proposed a comprehensive research model to examine the impact of value co‐creation in the AI innovation ecosystem for competitive advantage and innovation intelligibility with the mediating effect of dynamic capabilities and innovation capabilities. We collected data from 234 AI‐related manufacturers for the structural equation modelling analysis. Results show that (1) the AI innovation ecosystem can bring economic value and relationship value to enterprises; (2) impacts of economic value and relationship value on competitive advantage and innovation intelligibility are not significant; and (3) value co‐creation does not have a significant impact on competitive advantage and innovation intelligibility, and dynamic capabilities and innovation capabilities play the mediating role. Theoretical contribution, practical implication, limitation, and future research are presented.
From ideas to entrepreneurial opportunity: A study on AI
Authors: Ge Baoshan , Wang Qi , Yao Meifang
Published: June 2022

Artificial intelligence technology is applied in numerous fields. Several countries around the world have introduced national policies on artificial intelligence, and the competition for this emerging technology has become an important driving force for industrial development. In recent years, interdisciplinary research on artificial intelligence has made great progress. From the perspective of idea‐driven technology entrepreneurship, we discuss the concept of AI with other emerging technologies. For the early stage of the entrepreneurial process, from idea generation to entrepreneurial opportunity exploitation, we elaborate on the role played by AI. Finally, the future research prospects are proposed.
Dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction followed by magnetic nanoparticles retrieval of extract for separation and preconcentration of tetracycline from real samples before its selective spectrophotometric determination based on azo dye formation
Authors: Fattahi Bafghi Mohammad Reza , Haji Shabani Ali Mohammad , Dadfarnia Shayessteh , Nozohour Yazdi Mahnaz
Published: June 2022

A sensitive and selective method is reported for the determination of the low amount of tetracycline in real samples. The tetracycline is extracted and preconcentrated by dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction followed by retrieval of the extract with magnetic solid‐phase extraction. The extracted analyte is determined by a selective spectrophotometric method based on the formation of a water‐soluble violet mono azo dye between the tetracycline and diazotized p‐nitroaniline in the basic medium. The dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction was performed using acetonitrile as the disperser solvent and 1‐octanol as the extracting solvent. The extracted tetracycline in the dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction step was retrieved by dispersed hydrophobic oleic‐acid‐modified Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles. Thus, the method enjoyed the high surface area and strong magnetism properties of these nanoparticles avoiding the time‐consuming centrifugation or column‐passing processes. Finally, the tetracycline was eluted from the magnetic solid phase into 0.5 ml of ethanol, and coupled with diazotized p‐nitroaniline in the basic medium for spectrophotometric quantification. Under the optimum conditions, good linearity (in the range of 7.6–650.0 μg/L with R2 = 0.9987), low detection limit (2.3 μg/L), and preconcentration factor of 30.0 were obtained. The proposed method was successively applied to the determination of tetracycline in different samples.
Covalent Organic Frameworks‐Based Membranes as Promising Modalities from Preparation to Separation Applications: An Overview
Authors: Rasheed Tahir , Khan Sardaraz , Ahmad Tauqir , Ullah Nisar
Published: June 2022

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are a promising class of porous crystalline materials made up of covalently connected and periodically protracted network topologies through organic linkers. The tailorability of organic linker and intrinsic structures endow COFs with a tunable porosity and structure, low density, facilely‐tailored functionality, and large surface area, attracting increasing amount of interests in variety of research areas of membrane separations. COF‐based membranes have spawned a slew of new research projects, ranging from fabrication methodologies to separation applications. Herein, we tried to emphasis the major developments in the synthetic approaches of COFs based membranes for a variety of separation applications such as, separation of gaseous mixtures, water treatment as well as separation of isomeric and chiral organic compounds. The proposed methods for fabricating COF‐based continuous membranes and columns for real world applications are also thoroughly explored. Finally, a viewpoint on the future directions and remaining challenges for COF research in the area of separation is provided.
Applications of the Reversible Boronic Acids/Boronate Switch to Nucleic Acids
Authors: Debiais Mégane , Vasseur Jean‐Jacques , Smietana Michael
Published: June 2022

Over the last decades, boron and nucleic acids chemistries have gained a lot of attention for biological, medicinal and analytical applications. Our laboratory has a long‐standing interest in both chemistries and owing to the ability of boronic acids to react with cis‐diol function in aqueous media we developed over the years a variety of applications ranging from molecular recognition and sensing to the development of reversible dynamic systems in which the natural phosphodiester linkage was replaced by a boronate. In this account, we summarize research results from our group from our preliminary studies on molecular recognition of ribonucleosides to the dynamic assembly of functional DNAzymes. In particular, the various parameters influencing the dynamic nature of these reversible covalent bonds able to respond to external stimuli are discussed. Finally, current challenges and opportunities for boron‐based nucleic acids are also addressed.
Ophthalmic artery Doppler at 11–13 weeks' gestation in prediction of pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Gana N. , Sarno M. , Vieira N. , Wright A. , Charakida M. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To examine the potential value of maternal ophthalmic artery Doppler at 11–13 weeks' gestation, alone and in combination with the established first‐trimester biomarkers of pre‐eclampsia (PE), including uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA‐PI), mean arterial pressure (MAP), serum placental growth factor (PlGF) and serum pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A (PAPP‐A), in the prediction of subsequent development of PE.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study in women attending for a routine hospital visit at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks' gestation. This visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, ultrasound examination for fetal anatomy and growth, assessment of flow velocity waveforms from the maternal ophthalmic arteries and calculation of the second‐to‐first peak systolic velocity (PSV) ratio, and measurement of MAP and serum PAPP‐A. In addition, a case–control study was carried out for measurement of PlGF in stored samples from cases that developed PE and unaffected controls. The values of PSV ratio, UtA‐PI, MAP, PAPP‐A and PlGF were converted to multiples of the median or deltas to remove the effects of maternal characteristics and medical history. The competing‐risks model was used to estimate the individual patient‐specific risk of delivery with PE at < 37 and < 41 + 3 weeks' gestation for various combinations of markers. Performance was assessed using detection rates, at a fixed false‐positive rate (FPR), and areas under the receiver‐operating‐characteristics curves. Modeled performance was also assessed.

Results

The study population of 4066 pregnancies contained 114 (2.8%) that developed PE, including 25 (0.6%) that delivered with PE at < 37 weeks' gestation. The PSV ratio was significantly increased in PE pregnancies, and the effect of PE depended on gestational age at delivery, with the deviation from normal being greater for early than for late PE. Modeling demonstrated that the addition of PSV ratio improved the detection rate, at a 10% FPR, of preterm PE provided by maternal risk factors alone (from 46.3% to 58.4%), maternal factors, MAP and UtA‐PI (65.9% to 70.6%), and maternal factors, MAP, UtA‐PI and PlGF (74.6% to 76.7%). The PSV ratio did not improve the prediction of term PE provided by any combination of biomarkers.

Conclusion

Ophthalmic artery PSV ratio at 11−13 weeks' gestation is a potentially useful biomarker for prediction of subsequent development of preterm PE, but larger studies are needed to validate this finding. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Defining attention from an auditory perspective
Authors: Noyce Abigail L. , Kwasa Jasmine A. C. , Shinn‐Cunningham Barbara G.
Published: June 2022

Attention prioritizes certain information at the expense of other information in ways that are similar across vision, audition, and other sensory modalities. It influences how—and even what—information is represented and processed, affecting brain activity at every level. Much of the core research into cognitive and neural mechanisms of attention has used visual tasks. However, the same top‐down, object‐based, and bottom‐up attentional processes shape auditory perception, largely through the same underlying, cognitive networks.

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Attention
Blue‐green infrastructure for climate resilience and urban multifunctionality in Chinese cities
Authors: Siehr Stephanie A. , Sun Minmin , Aranda Nucamendi José Luis
Published: June 2022

Climate disruption and rapid urbanization present numerous challenges to infrastructure and communities in Chinese cities, from flooding and coastal erosion, to drought and pollution. This review article focuses on the utilization of Blue‐Green Infrastructure (BGI)—a suite of nature‐based strategies combining hydrological functions (blue) with vegetated landscaping (green)—to provide climate resilience and urban multifunctionality in China's large, high‐density cities. Chinese cities are utilizing BGI in new construction, in neighborhood retrofits, and in revival of ancient nature‐based infrastructure. The literature gives most attention to BGI in China's Sponge City Initiative that addresses the pluvial flooding crisis. Quantitative monitoring of BGI shows progress in stormwater‐related functions and to a lesser extent with rainwater utilization to address water scarcity. Other studies document multifunctional aspects of BGI, including cooling and energy‐saving functions of urban trees and green roofs, and green space expansion with parks that serve as retention basins. However, significant challenges and potential remain. China's urban infrastructure, including BGI, needs stronger design to be robust under extreme conditions as climate disruption intensifies. There is potential for BGI to more fully address habitat fragmentation, extreme heat, sea‐level rise and other climate and urbanization hazards. Further research and pilot projects are needed to characterize and quantify the benefits of multifunctional BGI. More integrated planning across city sectors, with greater incorporation of ecological and social functions, will help Chinese cities achieve multiple goals: providing carbon‐neutral and climate‐resilient infrastructure, improving air and water quality, regenerating ecosystems, and enhancing urban quality of life.

This article is categorized under:

Energy and Urban Design > Climate and Environment

Energy and Climate > Systems and Infrastructure

Energy and Urban Design > Systems and Infrastructure
Personal Accounts by Colleagues and Co-workers
Authors: von Storch Hans
Published: June 2022

During his long career, Klaus Hasselmann has been a boss and teacher but also a colleague to many people. Therefore, we have asked quite a few of these people about how they remember their time with him.
DUNE atmospheric neutrinos: Earth tomography
Authors: Kelly Kevin J. , Machado Pedro A. N. , Martinez-Soler Ivan , Perez-Gonzalez Yuber F.
Published: June 2022

Abstract

In this paper we show that the DUNE experiment can measure the Earth’s density profile by analyzing atmospheric neutrino oscillations. The crucial feature that enables such measurement is the detailed event reconstruction capability of liquid argon time projection chambers. This allows for studying the sub-GeV atmospheric neutrino component, which bears a rich oscillation phenomenology, strongly dependent on the matter potential sourced by the Earth. We provide a pedagogical discussion of the MSW and parametric resonances and their role in measuring the core and mantle densities. By performing a detailed simulation, accounting for particle reconstruction at DUNE, nuclear physics effects relevant to neutrino-argon interactions and several uncertainties on the atmospheric neutrino flux, we manage to obtain a robust estimate of DUNE’s sensitivity to the Earth matter profile. We find that DUNE can measure the total mass of the Earth at 9.3% precision with an exposure of 400 kton-year. By accounting for previous measurements of the total mass and moment of inertia of the Earth, the core, lower mantle and upper mantle densities can be determined with 9%, 14% and 22% precision, respectively, for the same exposure. Finally, for a low exposure run of 60 kton-year, which would correspond to two far detectors running for three years, we have found that the core density could be measured by DUNE at ∼ 30% precision.
Symmetries at causal boundaries in 2D and 3D gravity
Authors: Adami H. , Mao Pujian , Sheikh-Jabbari M. M. , Taghiloo V. , Yavartanoo H.
Published: June 2022

Abstract

We study 2d and 3d gravity theories on spacetimes with causal (timelike or null) codimension one boundaries while allowing for variations in the position of the boundary. We construct the corresponding solution phase space and specify boundary degrees freedom by analysing boundary (surface) charges labelling them. We discuss Y and W freedoms and change of slicing in the solution space. For D dimensional case we find D + 1 surface charges, which are generic functions over the causal boundary. We show that there exist solution space slicings in which the charges are integrable. For the 3d case there exists an integrable slicing where charge algebra takes the form of Heisenberg ⊕ $$ \mathcal{A} $$
A
3 where $$ \mathcal{A} $$
A
3 is two copies of Virasoro at Brown-Henneaux central charge for AdS3 gravity and BMS3 for the 3d flat space gravity.
Revisiting the fermionic dark matter absorption on electron target
Authors: Ge Shao-Feng , He Xiao-Gang , Ma Xiao-Dong , Sheng Jie
Published: June 2022

Abstract

We perform a systematic study of the fermionic DM absorption interactions on electron target in the context of effective field theory. The fermionic DM absorption is not just sensitive to sub-MeV DM with efficient energy release, but also gives a unique signature with clear peak in the electron recoil spectrum whose shape is largely determined by the atomic effects. Fitting with the Xenon1T and PandaX-II data prefers DM mass at mχ = 59 keV and 105 keV, respectively, while the cut-off scale is probed up to around 1 TeV. The DM overproduction in the early Universe, the invisible decay effect on the cosmological evolution, and the visible decay signal collected by the astrophysical X(gamma)-ray observations (Insight-HXMT, NuSTAR, HEAO-1, and INTEGRAL) are thoroughly explored to constrain the DM absorption interactions. With stringent bounds on the tensor and pseudo-scalar operators, the other fermionic DM operators are of particular interest at tonne-scale direct detection experiments such as PandaX-4T, XENONnT, and LZ.
Effects of a new filling technique on the mechanical properties of ABS specimens manufactured by fused deposition modeling
Authors: Hussam Heba , Abdelrhman Yasser , Soliman M.-Emad S. , Hassab-Allah Ibrahim M.
Published: June 2022

The spread of 3D printing in many different fields has become eminent. This paper aims to improve the mechanical properties of parts printed by fused deposition modeling technique. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) specimens are printed with custom printing parameters. These parameters give a tensile strength that is 86% of the injection- molded ABS strength, and give one of the best recorded results for 100% infill printed ABS tensile specimens. Furthermore, a post filling technique has been studied. Specimens are printed with inner voids and different densities using slicing software. Void shape is precisely selected to conform to the filling process. High-strength, low-cost thermoset resin is injected through specimens to fill those voids. A tensile test has been performed after the full curing of the resin. A morphology analysis is done. Using this technique strength to printed weight ratio is improved by 151% and the cost is reduced by 51%.
Geometry modifications of single-lip drills to improve cutting fluid flow
Authors: Baumann Andreas , Oezkaya Ekrem , Biermann Dirk , Eberhard Peter
Published: June 2022

For single-lip drills with small diameters, the cutting fluid is supplied through a kidney-shaped cooling channel inside the tool. In addition to reducing friction, the cutting fluid is also important for the dissipation of heat at the cutting edge and for the chip removal. However, in previous investigations of single-lip drills, it was observed that the fluid remains on the back side of the cutting edge, and accordingly, the cutting edge is insufficiently cooled. In this paper, a simulation-based investigation of an introduced additional drainage flute and flank surface modifications is carried out using smoothed particle hydrodynamics as well as computational fluid dynamics. It is determined that the additionally introduced drainages lead to a slightly changed flow situation, but a significant flow behind the cutting edge and into the drainage flute cannot be achieved due to reasons explained in this paper. Accordingly, not even a much larger drainage flute with unwanted side-effect of a decrease tool strength is able to archive a significant improvement of the flow around the cutting edge. Therefore, major changes to the cooling channel, like the use of two separate channels, the modification of their positions, or modified flank surfaces, are necessary in order to achieve an improvement in lubrication of the cutting edge and heat dissipation.
Aroma profile of a gluten-free barley malt beer crafted to remove gluten using a barley malt extract with high peptidase activity
Authors: Kerpes Roland , Göller Fritz , Kollmannsberger Hubert , Becker Thomas
Published: June 2022

Gluten-free beer (GFB) was produced from gluten-containing barley malt wort by adding an enzyme-enriched malt extract to the wort, intended for patients with celiac disease. Nevertheless, the aroma profile of such beer is unknown. The results indicated that the treatment reduced 3-methylbutyl acetate, 2-methylbutyl acetate, ethyl hexanoate, 2-methylpropyl acetate, and ethyl butyrate when compared with the reference. Moreover, foam, free amino nitrogen, aging stability, and color deviated significantly in the GFB. Although the values were below the odor threshold, analysis of aging components indicated increased amounts of heating, including 2-furfural and aging indicators, including phenylacetaldehyde. GC-O/MS following a descriptive profile test revealed that the attribute honey significantly increased. Further the shift in aroma composition of the GFB, long-chain free fatty acids (LCFFA) were analyzed, as they have been previously described to negatively correlate with ester metabolism and may be increased because of the technology applied. LCFFA analysis in wort revealed a significant increase in hexadecanoic and linoleic acids caused by the procedure. To clarify the findings, conventional barley malt worts were spiked with hexadecanoic acid, linoleic acid, and a mixture of these acids. A significant decrease in all esters concomitant with a honey-like aroma was observed when linoleic acid was added, but the aging analysis revealed no difference. Through adjustment of ester content to the reference, the spiked beers were less rated honey. The results indicate that aging components are sensed higher in the absence of esters; thus, by reducing LCFFA concentrations of gluten-free wort, the aroma of GFB could be enhanced.
Clinical relevance of potentially inappropriate medications and potential prescribing omissions according to explicit criteria—a validation study
Authors: Parodi López Naldy , Svensson Staffan A. , Wallerstedt Susanna M.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To investigate the clinical relevance of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) and potential prescribing omissions (PPOs), and to evaluate the association between PIMs/PPOs and inadequate drug treatment.

Methods

PIMs/PPOs, concordantly identified by two physicians applying the STOPP/START criteria, the EU(7)-PIM list, and a Swedish set in 302 consecutive older primary care patients, were assessed regarding clinical relevance for the specific patient. The physicians determined, in consensus, whether an action related to the medication was medically justified prior to the next regular consultation. If so, the drug treatment was categorised as inadequate, and if not, the treatment was considered adequate.

Results

In all, 259 (86%) patients had 1010 PIMs/PPOs, 150 (15%) of which, in 81 (27%) patients, were assessed as clinically relevant (kappa: 0.26). A total of 75 (50%) clinically relevant PIMs and PPOs were prioritised for medical action before the next regular consultation. Action-requiring clinically relevant PIMs most often concerned acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for primary prevention (four out of 68 patients on ASA). The corresponding PPOs concerned beta-blockers in ischaemic heart disease (four out of 61 patients with this condition). When an overall medical perspective was applied, 164 (63%) out of 259 patients with PIMs/PPOs were assessed as having adequate treatment. In adjusted logistic regression, number of PIMs and/or PPOs and number of drugs were associated with inadequate drug treatment.

Conclusion

One in seven PIMs/PPOs may be clinically relevant, half of these not of priority for medical action. Cautious interpretation is warranted when PIMs/PPOs are used as outcome measures.
Anatomy of the coronary sinus with regard to cardiac resynchronization therapy implantation
Authors: Borgquist Rasmus , Wang Lingwei
Published: June 2022

Knowledge of the coronary sinus (CS) anatomy is crucial for implantation of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). Obstacles to CS entry, such as the Eustachian ridge and Thebesian valve, as well as within the CS, such as Vieussen’s valve and the vein of Marshall, are important to understand and differentiate during implantation or to identify earlier by imaging. Anatomic knowledge is mandatory to select the most suitable side branch for lead implantation. Modern tools and techniques almost always enable other anatomic problems, such as tortuous, small, short, or overly straight side branches, to also be overcome.
Retinal inner nuclear layer thinning is decreased and associates with the clinical outcome in ocrelizumab-treated primary progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Miscioscia Alessandro , Puthenparampil Marco , Miante Silvia , Pengo Marta , Rinaldi Francesca , Perini Paola , Gallo Paolo
Published: June 2022

Background

Ocrelizumab was found to decrease brain atrophy rate in primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS), but no data are currently available on the effect of ocrelizumab on retinal layer thicknesses in the PPMS population.

Objective

To assess retinal layer changes in ocrelizumab-treated PPMS and test their possible application as biomarkers of therapy response.

Methods

36 PPMS patients, treated with ocrelizumab for at least 6 months, and 39 sex- and age-matched healthy controls (HC) were included in a blind, longitudinal study. Spectrum-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) was performed at study entry (T0) and after 6 (T6) and 12 months (T12). At month 24 (T24), patients were divided into responders (no evidence of 1-year confirmed disability progression, 1y-CDP) and non-responders (evidence of 1y-CDP).

Results

At T24, 23/36 (64%) patients were considered responders and 13/36 (36%) non-responders. At T0, peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness, macular ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) and inner retinal layer (IRL) volume were significantly lower in PPMS compared to HC (p = 0.001 for all comparisons). At T6 and T12, non-responders significantly differed in the inner nuclear layer (INL) thinning rate compared to responders (p = 0.005 at both time-points).

Conclusions

Ocrelizumab significantly slows down INL thinning rate in PPMS responders. The longitudinal analysis of retina layer changes by means of OCT may be a promising prognostic test, and merits further investigations.