bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrokinetic characterization of hybrid NOA 81‐glass microchips: Application to protein microchip electrophoresis with indirect fluorescence detection
Authors: Ben Frej Menel , d'Orlyé Fanny , Duarte‐Junior Gerson F. , Coltro Wendell K. T. , Varenne Anne
Published: August 2022

A low‐cost and straightforward hybrid NOA (Norland optical adhesive) 81‐glass microchip electrophoresis device was designed and developed for protein separation using indirect fluorescence detection. This new microchip was first characterized in terms of surface charge density via electroosmotic mobility measurement and stability over time. A systematic determination of the electroosmotic mobility (μeo) over a wide pH range (2–10) and at various ionic strengths (20–50 mM) was developed for the first time via the neutral marker approach in an original simple frontal methodology. The evolution of μeo was proved consistent with the silanol and thiol functions arising from the glass and the NOA materials, respectively. The repeatability and reproducibility of the measurements on different microchips (RSD < 14%) and within 15 days (less than 5% decrease) were successfully demonstrated. The microchip was then applied for the efficient electrophoretic separation of proteins in a zonal mode coupled with indirect fluorescence detection, which is, to our knowledge, the first proof of concept of capillary zone electrophoresis in this hybrid microsystem.
Effect on DI‐CI naturally aspirated engine influenced by biodiesel blends doped with green synthesized silver nanofuel additive
Authors: Murugan Moorthi , Arthanarisamy Murugesan , Subbaiyan Rubavathi , Alagumalai Avinash
Published: August 2022

The objective of this study is to find the effect on DI‐CI naturally aspirated engine influenced by Manilkara Zapota biodiesel blends doped with green synthesized silver nanoparticles. The Manilkara Zapota biodiesel is used as base fuel and green synthesized silver nanoparticle as nanoadditive. The nanoparticle is prepared with the leaf extracts of Manilkara Zapota. The different test fuel blends are prepared with different concentrations of 40, 80, and 120 ppm of silver nanoparticles such as B100, B20, B20AgNP40ppm, B20AgNP80ppm, B20AgNP120ppm and diesel. The fuel properties are measured as per ASTM standard and compared the results with and without nanoparticles are presented in this paper. To validate the test fuel by conduct the experimental investigation on a single cylinder DI‐CI naturally aspirated engine loaded with eddy current dynamometer attached with combustion pressure transducer. The experimental results proved test fuel B20AgNP80ppm exhibits better results compared to other test fuels. The brake thermal efficiency of 33.31% was obtained for B20AgNP80ppm fuel which is 2.83% and 1.02% higher than B20 and diesel. The maximum reduction of CO obtained for the fuel blend B20 with addition of 80 ppm of AgNP were 33.33% and 37.5% compared to B20 and diesel. The UHC emission reduced by 32.6% and 38% for B20AgNP80ppm compared to B20 and diesel. It is also found that lower NOx and smoke for B20AgNP80ppm blend compared to B20 and diesel. The maximum cylinder pressure and heat release rate were achieved for B20AgNP80ppm compared to other blends.
A companion to the preclinical common data elements for genomics, transcriptomics, and epigenomics data in rodent epilepsy models. A report of the TASK3‐WG4 omics working group of the ILAE/AES joint translational TASK force
Authors: van Vliet Erwin A. , Hildebrand Michael S. , Mills James D. , Brennan Gary P. , Eid Tore , Masino Susan A. , Whittemore Vicky , Bindila Laura , Wang Kevin K. , Patel Manisha , Perucca Piero , Reid Christopher A.
Published: August 2022

The International League Against Epilepsy/American Epilepsy Society (ILAE/AES) Joint Translational Task Force established the TASK3 working groups to create common data elements (CDEs) for various preclinical epilepsy research disciplines. The aim of the CDEs is to improve the standardization of experimental designs across a range of epilepsy research‐related methods. Here, we have generated CDE tables with key parameters and case report forms (CRFs) containing the essential contents of the study protocols for genomics, transcriptomics, and epigenomics in rodent models of epilepsy, with a specific focus on adult rats and mice. We discuss the important elements that need to be considered for genomics, transcriptomics, and epigenomics methodologies, providing a rationale for the parameters that should be collected. This is the first in a two‐part series of omics papers with the second installment to cover proteomics, lipidomics, and metabolomics in adult rodents.
Slip velocity boundary conditions for the lattice Boltzmann modeling of microchannel flows
Authors: Silva Goncalo , Ginzburg Irina
Published: August 2022

Slip flows in ducts are important in numerous engineering applications, most notably in microchannel flows. Compared to the standard no‐slip Dirichlet condition, the case of slip formulates as a Robin‐type condition for the fluid tangential velocity. Such an increase in mathematical complexity is accompanied by a more challenging numerical transcription. The present work concerns with this topic, addressing the modeling of the slip velocity boundary condition in the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) applied to steady slow viscous flows inside ducts of nontrivial shapes. As novelty, we extend the newly revised local second‐order boundary (LSOB) Dirichlet fluid flow method [Philos. Trans. R. Soc. A 378, 20190404 (2020)] to implement the slip velocity condition within the two‐relaxation‐time (TRT) framework. The LSOB follows an in‐node philosophy where its operation principle seeks to explicitly reconstruct the unknown boundary populations in the form of a third‐order accurate Chapman–Enskog expansion, where the wall slip condition is built‐in as a normal Taylor‐type condition. The key point of this approach is that the required first‐ and second‐order momentum derivatives, rather than computed through nonlocal finite difference approximations, are locally determined through a simple local linear algebra procedure, whose formulation is particularly aided by the TRT symmetry argument. To express the obtained derivatives, two approaches are considered, called and , which operate with node and wall variables, respectively. These two formulations are developed to prescribe the physical slip condition over plane and curved walls, including the corners. Their consistency and accuracy characteristics are examined against alternative linkwise strategies to impose the wall slip velocity, such as the kinetic‐based diffusive bounce‐back scheme, the central linear interpolation slip scheme, and the multireflection slip scheme. The several slip schemes are tested over different 3D microchannel configurations, with walls not conforming with the LBM uniform mesh. Numerical tests confirm the advanced accuracy characteristics of the proposed LSOB slip boundary scheme, revealing the added challenge of the wall slip modeling, and that parabolic accuracy is a necessary requirement to reach second‐order accuracy within this problem class.
Intrahepatic paracrine signaling by cardiotrophin‐like cytokine factor 1 ameliorates diet‐induced NASH in mice
Authors: Liu Tongyu , Wang Qiuyu , Zhou Linkang , Zhang Peng , Mi Lin , Qiu Xiaoxue , Chen Zhimin , Kuang Henry , Li Siming , Lin Jiandie D.
Published: August 2022

Background and Aims:

The mammalian liver harbors heterogeneous cell types that communicate via local paracrine signaling. Recent studies have delineated the transcriptomic landscape of the liver in NASH that provides insights into liver cell heterogeneity, intercellular crosstalk, and disease‐associated reprogramming. However, the nature of intrahepatic signaling and its role in NASH progression remain obscure.

Approach and Results:

Here, we performed transcriptomic analyses and identified cardiotrophin‐like cytokine factor 1 (CLCF1), a member of the IL‐6 family cytokines, as a cholangiocyte‐derived paracrine factor that was elevated in the liver from diet‐induced NASH mice and patients with NASH. Adenovirus‐associated virus–mediated overexpression of CLCF1 in the liver ameliorated NASH pathologies in two diet‐induced NASH models in mice, illustrating that CLCF1 induction may serve an adaptive and protective role during NASH pathogenesis. Unexpectedly, messenger RNA and protein levels of leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR), a subunit of the receptor complex for CLCF1, were markedly downregulated in NASH liver. Hepatocyte‐specific inactivation of LIFR accelerated NASH progression in mice, supporting an important role of intrahepatic cytokine signaling in maintaining tissue homeostasis under metabolic stress conditions.

Conclusions:

Together, this study sheds light on the molecular nature of intrahepatic paracrine signaling during NASH pathogenesis and uncovers potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
Therapeutic management and outcome of patients with advanced systemic mastocytosis treated with midostaurin: A comprehensive real‐life study in the French national healthcare database
Authors: Rossignol Julien , Nizard Sandra , Blanc Anne‐Sandrine , Filipovics Anne , Lortet‐Tieulent Joannie , Bouktit Hassiba , Poinsot Gwendoline , Schmidt Aurélie , Raguideau Fanny , Hermine Olivier
Published: August 2022

Advanced Systemic Mastocytosis (Adv‐SM) is rare and has a poor prognosis. Midostaurin (Rydapt®) is one of the few treatments for Adv‐SM in Europe. The study aims were to describe the characteristics of patients treated with midostaurin, their treatment modalities, outcomes, and serious events requiring hospitalization. This retrospective observational study was conducted using the French National Healthcare Database (SNDS) and included adult Adv‐SM patients treated with midostaurin between 01‐01‐2012 and 09‐30‐2018. Kaplan‐Meier method was used to assess survival and treatment duration. Eighty‐one patients were included: 37 with Aggressive Systemic Mastocytosis (SM) (46%), 31 with SM with an Associated Hematological Neoplasm (38%), and 4 with Mast Cell Leukemia (5%). The SM subtype was undetermined in 9 patients (11%). The median age was 67 years; 64% of patients were male. Over the mean follow‐up of 11.4 months, median midostaurin treatment duration was 8.4 months and 28 patients (35%) were still under treatment at the end of the study. One‐year and 5‐year overall survival rates estimated since the time of diagnosis were 83% and 56%, respectively. Twelve serious events (among those frequently reported during clinical trials and compassionate use) requiring hospitalization were identified; a causal association with Adv‐SM treatment could neither be excluded nor established. In this first real‐life study on patients treated with midostaurin for Adv‐SM, the patients' characteristics, their management, treatment discontinuation, and survival were in line with previous results (compassionate use and clinical trials).
Harnessing the power of placebos and mitigating nocebo effects in clinical practice
Authors: Wettergreen Sara A. , Plauche Ardath K. , Stewart Morgan P.
Published: August 2022

Placebo and nocebo effects refer to the true or perceived benefits or harms, respectively, from either an inert or pharmacologically active substance. Both placebo and nocebo effects are often an unseen factor in the care of patients, yet remain controversial and underrecognized. As one of the most readily accessible health professionals, pharmacists are afforded myriad opportunities to address placebo and nocebo effects in their clinical practice settings. The balance between beliefs (positive effects) and fears (negative effects) is one that pharmacists can become adept at navigating through practical strategies provided for individuals, health‐systems, the pharmacy profession, and the overall healthcare community. Future research endeavors should focus on efficacy of previously discussed strategies when utilized by pharmacists, such as patient education strategies.
Theoretical investigation into the deciphering effects of atomic electronegativity on 2‐hydroxy‐phenyl‐tafamidis: A time‐dependent density functional theory study
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Yuan Hengyi , Li Yi
Published: August 2022

In light of the potential probe applications of 2‐hydroxy‐phenyl‐tafamidis (2HPT) and its derivatives with different atomic electronegativity (2HPT‐O, 2HPT‐S, and 2HPT‐Se), the mechanisms of excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) of 2HPT derivatives have been investigated in this work. Via probing into the geometric parameters of hydrogen bond O‐H···N, infrared vibrational spectroscopy, and bond critical point values, we can confirm that hydrogen bonding is enhanced in the first excited state (S1). It is worth mentioning that the enhancement of hydrogen bonding in the S1 state by low atomic electronegativity 2HPT‐Se is particularly important. In light‐induced excitation, by comparing the changed behaviors of highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) orbitals, it could be found that photo‐induced charge transfer happens in excited molecules, and charge redistribution facilitates ESIPT reaction. Particularly, the low atomic electronegativity could promote the ESIPT process for 2HPT system. In order to clarify the detailed ESIPT mechanism, we construct the potential energy curves, search for the transition state form, and determine the ESIPT mechanism for 2HPT fluorophores. In this work, we not only elucidated the excited state behavior of 2HPT systems but also proposed a novel mechanism for regulating ESIPT by atomic electronegativity.
Expression of KIF2A, NDC80, CDK1, and CCNB1 in breast cancer patients: Their interaction and linkage with tumor features and prognosis
Authors: Wang Cong , Xie Xianxin , Li Weijie , Jiang Daqing
Published: August 2022

Background

Kinesin family member 2A (KIF2A), nuclear division cycle 80 (NDC80), cyclin‐dependent kinase 1 (CDK1), and cyclin B1 (CCNB1) exhibit a complex interrelation, which promote cancer progression via multiple ways, whereas their interaction and clinical implications in breast cancer are obscure. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the correlation among KIF2A, NDC80, CDK1, CCNB1, and their linkage with clinicopathological features and prognosis in breast cancer patients.

Methods

195 breast cancer patients underwent surgical resection were analyzed. KIF2A, NDC80, CDK1, and CCNB1 expressions were determined by immunohistochemical (IHC) assay and scored by a semiquantitative IHC score or positive cell percentage.

Results

KIF2A expression positively associated with NDC80, CDK1, and CCNB1 expressions (all p < 0.01). In terms of tumor features: KIF2A high expression linked with increased T stage (p = 0.011), N stage (p = 0.014), and TNM stage (p = 0.009) but not tumor differentiation (p = 0.651). NDC80 high expression only related to higher N stage (p = 0.010); CDK1 high expression only connected with elevated N stage (p = 0.035) and TNM stage (p = 0.023). In aspect of prognosis, high expression of KIF2A was correlated with worse disease‐free survival (DFS) (p = 0.031), while NDC80 high (p = 0.329), CDK1 high (p = 0.276), and CCNB1 positive (p = 0.063) expressions only showed trends to link with poor DFS (without statistical significance). Furthermore, high expression of KIF2A (p = 0.063), NDC80 (p = 0.939), CDK1 (p = 0.413) and positive expression of CCNB1 (p = 0.296) did not relate to overall survival.

Conclusion

KIF2A correlates with NDC80, CDK1, CCNB1, and may link with advanced tumor stages and poor prognosis in breast cancer patients.
Lung ultrasound versus chest computed tomography for pregnant inpatients with COVID‐19
Authors: Biancolin Sckarlet Ernandes , dos Santos Fernandes Hermann , Sawamura Marcio Valente Yamada , Queiroz Joelma , Centofanti Sandra Frankfurt , Liao Adolfo Wenjaw , da Costa Leite Claudia , Francisco Rossana Pulcineli Vieira , de Lourdes Brizot Maria ,   And the HC‐FMUSP‐Obstetric COVID19 Study Group: Aline Scalisse Bassi, Amanda Wictky Fabri, Ana Claudia Rodrigues Lopes Amaral de Souza, Ana Claudia Silva Farche, Ana Maria Kondo Igai, Ana Maria da Silva Sousa Oliveira, Adriana Lippi Waissman, Carlos Eduardo do Nascimento Martins, Cristiane de Freitas Paganoti, Danielle Rodrigues Domingues, Fernanda Cristina Ferreira Mikami, Fernanda Spadotto Baptista, Jacqueline Kobayashi Cippiciani, Jéssica Gorrão Lopes Albertini, Juliana Ikeda Niigaki, Marco Aurélio Knip
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To compare lung ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) in the assessment of pregnant women with COVID‐19.

Methods

Prospective study comprising 39 pregnant inpatients with COVID‐19 who underwent pulmonary assessment with CT and US with a maximum span of 48 h between the exams. The thorax was divided into 12 regions and assessed in terms of the following: the presence of B‐lines (>2), coalescent B‐lines, consolidation on US; presence of interlobular thickening, ground glass, consolidation on CT. The two methods were scored by adding up the scores from each thoracic region.

Results

A significant correlation was found between the scores obtained by the two methods (rICC = 0.946; p < 0.001). They were moderately in agreement concerning the frequency of altered pulmonary regions (weighted kappa = 0.551). In US, a score over 15, coalescent B‐lines, and consolidation were predictors of the need for oxygen, whereas the predictors in CT were a lung score over 16 and consolidation. The two methods, US (p < 0.001; AUC = 0.915) and CT (p < 0.001; AUC = 0.938), were fairly accurate in predicting the need for oxygen.

Conclusion

In pregnant women, lung US and chest CT are of similar accuracy in assessing lungs affected by COVID‐19 and can predict the need for oxygen.
Steroid therapy has an acceptable role as the initial treatment in autoimmune pancreatitis patients with pancreatic cyst formation: Based on a Japanese nationwide study
Authors: Kubota Kensuke , Oguchi Takaya , Fujimori Nao , Yamada Kenta , Naitoh Itaru , Okabe Yoshinobu , Iwasaki Eisuke , Masamune Atsushi , Ikeura Tsukasa , Kamisawa Terumi , Inoue Dai , Kumagi Teru , Ogura Takeshi , Kodama Yuzo , Katanuma Akio , Hirano Kenji , Inui Kazuo , Isayama Hiroyuki , Sakagami Junichi , Nishino Takayoshi , Kanno Atsushi , Kurita Yusuke , Okazaki Kazuichi , Nakamura Seiji ,   Collaborators
Published: August 2022

Background

We attempted to determine the indications and limitations of steroid therapy as the first‐line therapy in patients with autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) with cyst formation (ACF).

Methods

This Japanese multicenter survey was conducted to examine the merits/demerits of steroid treatment as the initial therapy for ACF.

Results

Data of a total of 115 patients with ACF were analyzed. Complete remission was achieved in 86% (86/100) of patients who had received steroid treatment, but only 33.3% (5/15) of patients who had not received steroids. Relapse after the remission (n = 86) occurred in 7.6% (6/86) of patients who had received steroid therapy, but 40% (2/5) of patients who had not received steroid therapy. Multivariate analysis identified adoption of the wait and watch approach without steroid treatment (odds ratio = 0.126, P < .001) as a significant and independent negative predictor of remission of ACF. As for predictors of relapse, the presence of varix (odds ratio = 5.83, P = .036) was identified as an independent risk factor.

Conclusion

Steroid therapy plays an important role as first‐line therapy in AIP patients with pancreatic cyst formation, however, varix formation, besides the diameter of the cyst(s), is a risk factor for refractoriness to steroid therapy.
Assessment of Perineal Scars on Translabial Pelvic Floor Ultrasound: A Pilot Study
Authors: Housmans Susanne , Gillor Moshe , Shek Ka Lai , Dietz Hans Peter
Published: August 2022

Objective

We aimed to describe a method for identifying and evaluating perineal scars using translabial pelvic floor ultrasound. We hypothesized that translabial ultrasound can identify a perineal scar and can differentiate episiotomies from spontaneous tears.

Methods

This pilot study is a secondary analysis of data obtained in the Epi‐No® trial. Perineal integrity was assessed using volumes acquired on pelvic floor muscle contraction according to the method previously described for anal sphincter imaging. A scar was diagnosed if a hypoechoic distortion in the perineum was noted. We postulated that an episiotomy would result in a linear scar visible on four dimensional translabial ultrasound whereas nonlinear scars were considered the result of spontaneous perineal tear of grade 2 or higher. The results of this assessment were compared with data retrieved from electronic medical records.

Results

A scar was identified in 79/120 women (66%): 42 (35%) linear and 37 (31%) nonlinear. Sonographic and clinical diagnosis agreed on the presence or absence of perineal trauma in 66%. Agreement for the type of laceration was 50%.

Conclusion

In this retrospective pilot study, a blinded assessment of translabial ultrasound volume data showed agreement between clinical data and sonographic assessment of perineal integrity in 66% and of type of laceration in 50%. More work is needed to optimize the method in assessment of perineal scars to improve its performance before it can be used in clinical audit and research.
Analysing overlay journals: The state‐of‐the‐art in 2021 and possible perspectives
Authors: Ursić Luka , Gudelj Danijel , Tomić Vicko , Marušić Matko , Marušić Ana
Published: August 2022

The rising importance of preprints and the growing number of journals accepting them necessitate a (re)definition of an overlay journal and its place in today's publishing context. Using a snowball search strategy, we searched Web of Science and Scopus databases for articles on overlay journals. From these articles, we identified 28 overlay journals that fit the traditional overlay journal definition (they did not host articles but provided links to final versions on repositories or they searched repositories for viable preprints to publish) or that defined themselves as overlay journals. Most journals were not indexed in bibliographic databases, and crucial information such as journal ownership was not publicly available. Likewise, most journals both self‐hosted articles and provided links to final versions on repositories, which might mean repositories are more valuable in their ‘open access’ functionality than in the capacity for hosting articles. Editorial policies and practices of these overlay journals were often undeveloped or non‐existent. It seems overlay journals remain a niche publishing model in 2021, especially due to the increased number of journals accepting preprints and using preprint servers in their core functionality. However, overlay journals can take an ‘active’ approach in finding, reviewing, and publishing preprints, replacing other inefficient publishing models.
Point‐of‐care ultrasound scan as the primary modality for evaluating parotid tumors
Authors: Harb Jennifer L. , Zaro Christopher , Nassif Samih J. , Dhingra Jagdish K.
Published: August 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to explore ultrasonography as a single imaging modality for the initial assessment of parotid lesions compared to computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

A retrospective cross‐sectional study was performed on 264 parotid gland lesions evaluated in a dedicated point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) clinic with concurrent fine needle biopsy (FNB). Two hundred and nine of these lesions also underwent CT or MRI imaging. Histopathology results, when available, were recorded and compared to imaging impressions.

Results

Surgeon‐performed POCUS classified parotid masses accurately when compared to final histopathology (90/96, 94%). Using predefined criteria, POCUS determined the nature of parotid lesions more definitively than the descriptive CT or MRI radiology reports (p <.001). Sub‐analysis showed that ultrasonography was able to distinguish between benign pathologies with high degree of accuracy (Warthin tumor—82%, pleomorphic adenoma—64%).

Conclusions

POCUS can accurately distinguish between benign and malignant parotid lesions. POCUS may suffice as the only imaging study for benign lesions, obviating the need for additional cross‐sectional imaging. This can be combined with fine needle or core biopsy in the same visit, resulting in expedient diagnosis, low cost, and lack of radiation exposure.

Level of Evidence

2b, individual cross‐sectional cohort study.
A phase‐field approach for compaction band formation due to grain crushing
Authors: Ip Sabrina C.Y. , Borja Ronaldo I.
Published: August 2022

Compaction bands are tabular regions of localized compressive deformation with little or no shear offset. Often observed in high‐porosity rocks, they can be classified into several subtypes based on their pattern and orientation with respect to the maximum principal stress. The combined effects of material properties and loading conditions on the type of compaction bands that develop are not fully understood, and realistic simulations of their formation are not always successful. In this study, a phase‐field approach for capturing the formation and propagation of compaction bands is proposed. The fracture energy utilized in classic phase‐field formulations is interpreted to be driven by grain crushing and is herein characterized by breakage mechanics theory. A new decomposition of the free energy function is introduced in which the energy stored by plastic compactive flow drives grain crushing. Depending on the value of the energy release rate, the model predicts different styles of compaction bands that are remarkably consistent with those observed in the field. Numerical simulations demonstrate the role of confining pressure, plasticity, and critical breakage energy on the styles of the predicted compaction bands.
A physics‐based model reduction approach for node‐to‐segment contact problems in linear elasticity
Authors: Manvelyan Diana , Simeon Bernd , Wever Utz
Published: August 2022

The article presents a novel model order reduction method for mechanical problems in linear elasticity with nonlinear contact conditions. Recently, we have proposed an efficient reduction scheme for the node‐to‐node formulation [Manvelyan et al., Comput Mech 68, 1283–1295 (2021)] that leads to linear complementarity problems (LCPs). Here, we enhance the underlying contact problem to a node‐to‐segment formulation, which leads to quadratic inequalities as constraints. The adjoint system corresponds to a nonlinear complementarity problem that describes the Lagrange multiplier. The latter is solved by a Newton‐type iteration based on a LCP solver in each time step. Since the maximal set of potential contact nodes is predefined, an additional substructuring by Craig–Bampton can be performed. This contact treatment turns out to be necessary and allows exclusion of the Lagrange multipliers and the nodal displacements at contact from reduction. The numerical solutions of the reduced contact problem achieve high accuracy and the dynamic contact carries over the behavior of the full order model. Moreover, if the contact area is small compared to the overall structure, the reduction scheme performs very efficiently. The performance of the resulting reduction method is assessed on two 2D computational examples from linear elasticity.
A method for quantifying how the activity of an enzyme is affected by the net charge of its nearest crowded neighbor
Authors: Koone Jordan C. , Dashnaw Chad M. , Gonzalez Mayte , Shaw Bryan F.
Published: August 2022

The electrostatic effects of protein crowding have not been systematically explored. Rather, protein crowding is generally studied with co‐solvents or crowders that are electrostatically neutral, with no methods to measure how the net charge (Z) of a crowder affects protein function. For example, can the activity of an enzyme be affected electrostatically by the net charge of its neighbor in crowded milieu? This paper reports a method for crowding proteins of different net charge to an enzyme via semi‐random chemical crosslinking. As a proof of concept, RNase A was crowded (at distances ≤ the Debye length) via crosslinking to different heme proteins with Z = +8.50 ± 0.04, Z = +6.39 ± 0.12, or Z = −10.30 ± 1.32. Crosslinking did not disrupt the structure of proteins, according to amide H/D exchange, and did not inhibit RNase A activity. For RNase A, we found that the electrostatic environment of each crowded neighbor had significant effects on rates of RNA hydrolysis. Crowding with cationic cytochrome c led to increases in activity, while crowding with anionic “supercharged” cytochrome c or myoglobin diminished activity. Surprisingly, electrostatic crowding effects were amplified at high ionic strength (I = 0.201 M) and attenuated at low ionic strength (I = 0.011 M). This salt dependence might be caused by a unique set of electric double layers at the dimer interspace (maximum distance of 8 Å, which cannot accommodate four layers). This new method of crowding via crosslinking can be used to search for electrostatic effects in protein crowding.
GM‐CSF antibodies in artificial stone associated silicoproteinosis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Khan Shana N. S. , Stirling Robert G. , Mclean Catriona A. , Russell Prudence A. , Hoy Ryan F.
Published: August 2022

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare lung disease where there is accumulation of surfactant in the alveoli. It can be classified based on the underlying aetiology into three categories: primary, secondary and congenital. Autoantibodies to granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF‐Ab) are a key diagnostic feature of autoimmune PAP. High intensity occupational exposure and inhalation of toxic particles such as silica can cause a form of secondary PAP called acute silicoproteinosis. We describe a 26‐year‐old stone benchtop fabricator with silicoproteinosis following daily exposure to high levels of silica who had elevated serum GM‐CSF‐Ab. We discuss the role of GM‐CSF‐Ab in cases of PAP with occupational inhalational exposure and the challenges in its interpretation.
On event‐triggered guaranteed cost control for discrete‐time semi‐Markovian neural networks having communication delays and dual‐terminal probabilistic faults
Authors: Li Xiaoqing , She Kun , Shi Kaibo , Cheng Jun , Yu Yongbin , Peng Zhinan
Published: August 2022

This article aims to address the guaranteed cost control synthesis problem for discrete‐time semi‐Markovian neural networks (D‐SMNNs) considering communication delays along with probabilistic faulty sensors and actuators (dual‐terminal probabilistic faults) by adopting a modified event‐triggered mechanism. Our primary target of this research is to implement a suitable feedback controller such that the resulting D‐SMNNs achieve stochastically stable. To be more concrete, the structural and coefficient switchings of the NNs are characterized by a semi‐Markovian process (SMP) along with the lower and upper bounds of the transition probabilities (TPs), which can reflect the reality more accurately and has a wider application scope. For optimize the resource utilization of the band‐limited communication networks, a modified event‐triggered transmission strategy is put forward to lessen the unnecessary data transmission over network. Additionally, according to different failure rates and the measurement distributions of intelligent modules, a more practical probabilistic sensors and actuators faulty model for networked D‐SMNNs is synthesized, which including additivity and multiplicity. The anamorphic probability of sensors and actuators are governed by a battery of mutually independent stochastic variables that obeys certain probabilistic distribution over the preknown interval . Therein, the distortion degree and failure rate for each sensor and actuator can be separately quantized and characterized with the aid of mathematical variance and expectation. Briefly, in comparison to the existing faulty models, the novelty of this extended fault model lies in it can characterize more features in practical industrial applications. Afterwards, by resorting to the Lyapunov functional method and combining with both the stochastic analysis technique and matrix inequality decoupling manipulation, several sufficient conditions on ensuring stabilization for solving both the guaranteed cost controller gains and event‐triggered coefficients are formulated in the shape of a group of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), which can be verified by exploiting standard compute software. After that, the controller design is reformulated as an optimization problem with LMI constraints immediately. Eventually, three simulation examples are carried out to substantiate the potency and accuracy of the proposed control synthesis methodology.
Storylines nailing or failing sustainability: Energy, mining and mobility as narrative arenas for societal transition
Authors: Lyytimäki Jari
Published: August 2022

The urgency of the sustainability transition, as emphasized by science, has not yet been fully translated to large‐scale, inspired and effective societal action. This article focuses on the transformative potential of science‐based information presented through specific sustainability storylines inside larger policy narratives. Sustainability storylines can serve as tools for learning from the past, create representations of the current situation and outline paths toward probable, preferable, or avoidable futures. The focus is on three storylines focusing on bioenergy as a renewable energy solution, green mining providing nonrenewable resources and physically active mobility allowing health and environmental benefits. The empirical focus is on Finland, a forerunner of sustainability policies with a large per capita environmental footprint. The potential of sustainable development goals to simultaneously serve as a globally shared and nationally relevant framework for sustainability storylines is discussed with a rather dismal conclusion but optimistic outlook.
Biostimulatory Micro‐Fragmented Nanofiber‐Hydrogel Composite Improves Mesenchymal Stem Cell Delivery and Soft Tissue Remodeling
Authors: Yao Zhi‐Cheng , Yang Yueh‐Hsun , Kong Jiayuan , Zhu Yining , Li Ling , Chang Calvin , Zhang Chi , Yin Jason , Chao Jeffrey , Selaru Florin M. , Reddy Sashank K. , Mao Hai‐Quan
Published: August 2022

Functional microgels are preferred stem cell carriers due to the ease of delivery through minimally invasive injection and seamless integration with the surrounding host tissue. A biostimulatory nanofiber‐hydrogel composite (NHC) has been previously developed through covalently crosslinking a hyaluronic acid hydrogel network with surface‐functionalized poly (ε‐caprolactone) nanofiber fragments. The NHC mimics the microarchitecture of native soft tissue matrix, showing enhanced cell infiltration, immunomodulation, and proangiogenic properties. Here, injectability of the pre‐formed NHC is improved by mechanical fragmentation, making it into micro‐fragmented NHC (mfNHC) in a granular gel form as a stem cell carrier to deliver mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for soft tissue remodeling. The mfNHC shows a similar storage modulus but a significantly reduced injection force, as compared with the corresponding bulk NHC. When injected subcutaneously in a rat model, mfNHC‐MSC constructs initiate an elevated level of host macrophage infiltration, more pro‐regenerative polarization, and subsequently, improved angiogenesis and adipogenesis response when compared to mfNHC alone. A similar trend of host cell infiltration and pro‐angiogenic response is detected in a swine model with a larger volume injection. These results suggest a strong potential for use of the mfNHC as an injectable carrier for cell delivery and soft tissue remodeling.
Polymorphic Phosphorus Applied to Alkali‐Ion Battery Electrodes
Authors: Tsai Hsu‐Sheng
Published: August 2022

The polymorphic phosphorus materials such as amorphous red and black ones have been used as the anodes for alkali‐ion batteries. As the research field of 2D materials is pioneered, the fibrous red and violet phosphorus begin to be investigated and predicted for various devices. Meanwhile, they are not only applied to the active materials of electrodes but also the formation of protective layers for battery application. This article briefly introduces the primary allotropes of phosphorus, their research progress, and their potential for the application of alkali‐ion batteries. Next, the recent studies concerning their applications of electrodes and protective layers for alkali‐ion batteries are discussed in detail. Finally, the merits and drawbacks of preparation approaches, the strategies for improvement of battery performance, and the urgent challenges as well as possible solutions for future development of alkali‐ion batteries using the electrodes or protective layers made from phosphorus materials, are summarized.
Multi‐Net strategy: Accelerating physics‐informed neural networks for solving partial differential equations
Authors: Wang Yunzhuo , Li Jianfeng , Zhou Liangying , Sun Jingwei , Sun Guangzhong
Published: August 2022

Partial differential equations (PDEs) are the most ubiquitous tools for modeling natural science problems and have long received attention. Physics‐informed neural networks (PINNs) are emerging approaches to approximately solve PDEs. PINNs use automatic differentiation technology to construct the residual of PDEs in the loss function to encode physics conservation laws. We call this process the Single‐Net strategy. Due to the dependency of automatic differentiation among different orders of derivatives, the efficiency of PINNs under the Single‐Net strategy is limited. To address this issue, we propose the Multi‐Net strategy to decouple the dependency. Compared with the Single‐Net strategy, the Multi‐Net strategy reduces the training time of PINNs, and meanwhile, keeps the prediction accuracy. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy is demonstrated through time complexity analysis and a collection of experiments on Burgers equation, advection‐dispersion equation, Kdv equation, and Allen–Cahn equation.
Effect of Grain Size on the Pitting Corrosion Resistance of Lean Duplex Stainless Steel
Authors: Ha Heon-Young , Kang Jun-Yun , Lee Tae-Ho , Park Hyungkwon , Kim Hoyoung
Published: August 2022

The effects of grain refinement on the resistance to pitting corrosion and passive film properties of lean duplex stainless steel (Fe–18.28Cr–5.68Mn–2.38Mo–0.39W–0.30N–0.035C, wt%) are studied. For this purpose, the grain size of this alloy is adjusted to 3, 7, and 17 μm through an annealing process after cold rolling. The pitting corrosion resistance is evaluated through potentiodynamic polarization tests in aqueous solutions containing Cl−. The grain size reduction enhances the resistance to pitting corrosion of the alloy. Mott–Schottky analysis and X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis on the passive films show that, as the grain size decreases, the density of point defects of the film decreases, the film thickness increases, and the cation fraction of Cr of the film increases. The improved resistance to pitting corrosion by grain refinement is attributed to the formation of the thick and dense passive film with a high Cr content.
Anomaly detection of time series correlations via a novel Lie group structure
Authors: David Paul , Gu Weiqing
Published: August 2022

We investigate a natural Lie group structure that correlations possess, interpreted as a special case of the quotient manifold structure for
correlation matrices. The one‐dimensional setting of the general theory gives rise to additional structure in the form of a natural associative multiplication of correlations making the space of correlations into a Lie group. We explicitly compute left‐invariant vector fields, exponential and logarithmic mappings, and ultimately, a closed‐form distance formula between correlations. The Lie group formalism is then applied to an application in anomalous correlation detection. The advantage of the Lie group method illustrated with time series data of stock prices.
Assessing the State of Smoke Science
Authors: Jaffe Daniel A. , Peterson David L. , McCaffrey Sarah M. , Hall John A. , Brown Timothy J.
Published: August 2022

Recent large wildfires in the USA have exposed millions of people to smoke, with major implications for health and other social and economic values. Prescribed burning for ecosystem health purposes and hazardous fuel reduction also adds smoke to the atmosphere, in some cases affecting adjacent communities. However, we currently lack an appropriate assessment framework that looks past the planned versus unplanned nature of a fire and assesses the environmental conditions under which particular fires burn, their socio-ecological settings, and implications for smoke production and management. A strong scientific foundation is needed to address wildland fire smoke challenges, especially given that degraded air quality and smoke exposure will likely increase in extent and severity as the climate gets warmer. It will be especially important to provide timely and accurate smoke information to help communities mitigate potential smoke impacts from ongoing wildfires, as well as from planned prescribed fires. This assessment focuses on primary physical, chemical, biological, and social considerations by documenting our current understanding of smoke science and how the research community can collaborate with resource managers and regulators to advance smoke science over the next decade.
Fuels and Consumption
Authors: Prichard Susan J. , Rowell Eric M. , Hudak Andrew T. , Keane Robert E. , Loudermilk E. Louise , Lutes Duncan C. , Ottmar Roger D. , Chappell Linda M. , Hall John A. , Hornsby Benjamin S.
Published: August 2022

Wildland fuels, defined as the combustible biomass of live and dead vegetation, are foundational to fire behavior, ecological effects, and smoke modeling. Along with weather and topography, the composition, structure and condition of wildland fuels drive fire spread, consumption, heat release, plume production and smoke dispersion. To refine inputs to existing and next-generation smoke modeling tools, improved characterization of the spatial and temporal dynamics of wildland fuels is necessary. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models that resolve fire–atmosphere interactions offer a promising new approach to smoke prediction. CFD models rely on three-dimensional (3D) characterization of wildland fuelbeds (trees, shrubs, herbs, downed wood and forest floor fuels). Advances in remote sensing technologies are leading to novel ways to measure wildland fuels and map them at sub-meter to multi-kilometer scales as inputs to next-generation fire and smoke models. In this chapter, we review traditional methods to characterize fuel, describe recent advances in the fields of fuel and consumption science to inform smoke science, and discuss emerging issues and challenges.
Fire Behavior and Heat Release as Source Conditions for Smoke Modeling
Authors: Goodrick Scott L. , Tarnay Leland W. , Anderson Bret A. , Coen Janice L. , Furman James H. , Linn Rodman R. , Riggan Philip J. , Schmidt Christopher C.
Published: August 2022

Modeling smoke dispersion from wildland fires is a complex problem. Heat and emissions are released from a fire front as well as from post-frontal combustion, and both are continuously evolving in space and time, providing an emission source that is unlike the industrial sources for which most dispersion models were originally designed. Convective motions driven by the fire’s heat release strongly couple the fire to the atmosphere, influencing the development and dynamics of the smoke plume. This chapter examines how fire events are described in the smoke modeling process and explores new research tools that may offer potential improvements to these descriptions and can reduce uncertainty in smoke model inputs. Remote sensing will help transition these research tools to operations by providing a safe and reliable means of measuring the fire environment at the space and time scales relevant to fire behavior.
Smoke Plume Dynamics
Authors: Liu Yongqiang , Heilman Warren E. , Potter Brian E. , Clements Craig B. , Jackson William A. , French Nancy H. F. , Goodrick Scott L. , Kochanski Adam K. , Larkin Narasimhan K. , Lahm Peter W. , Brown Timothy J. , Schwarz Joshua P. , Strachan Sara M. , Zhao Fengjun
Published: August 2022

Smoke plume dynamic science focuses on understanding the various smoke processes that control the movement and mixing of smoke. A current challenge facing this research is providing timely and accurate smoke information for the increasing area burned by wildfires in the western USA. This chapter synthesizes smoke plume research from the past decade to evaluate the current state of science and identify future research needs. Major advances have been achieved in measurements and modeling of smoke plume rise, dispersion, transport, and superfog; interactions with fire, atmosphere, and canopy; and applications to smoke management. The biggest remaining gaps are the lack of high-resolution coupled fire, smoke, and atmospheric modeling systems, and simultaneous measurements of these components. The science of smoke plume dynamics is likely to improve through development and implementation of: improved observational capabilities and computational power; new approaches and tools for data integration; varied levels of observations, partnerships, and projects focused on field campaigns and operational management; and new efforts to implement fire and stewardship strategies and transition research on smoke dynamics into operational tools. Recent research on a number of key smoke plume dynamics has improved our understanding of coupled smoke modeling systems, modeling tools that use field campaign data, real-time smoke modeling and prediction, and smoke from duff burning. This new research will lead to better predictions of smoke production and transport, including the influence of a warmer climate on smoke.
Janus and RG interfaces in three-dimensional gauged supergravity. Part II. General α
Authors: Gutperle Michael , Hultgreen-Mena Charlie
Published: August 2022

Abstract

In this paper, we continue the study of Janus and RG-flow interfaces in three dimensional supergravity continuing the work presented in [1]. We consider $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 8 gauged supergravity theories which have a $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (4, 4) AdS3 vacuum with D1(2, 1; α) × D1(2, 1; α) symmetry for general α. We derive the BPS flow equations and find numerical solutions. Some holographic quantities such as the entanglement entropy are calculated.
CD20+ T cells: an emerging T cell subset in human pathology
Authors: Lee Adrian Y. S.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Although CD20 is classically a B cell marker, in the last three decades, dim expression has been noted on a subset of T cells as well that has been independently verified by a number of groups. Our understanding of these cells and their function is not well established.

Methods

A thorough review of original articles on CD20+T cells was undertaken of Pubmed by using combination of phrases including “CD20+”, “CD20-positive” and “T cells”. Articles in English were considered, and there was no time restriction.

Results

CD20+T cells express the standard T cell markers and, in comparison to CD20¯ T cells, appear to express greater inflammatory cytokines and markers of effector function. Although the ontogeny of these cells is still being established, the current theory is that CD20 may be acquired by trogocytosis from B cells. CD20+T cells may be found in healthy controls and in a wide range of pathologies including autoimmune diseases, haematological and non-haematological malignancies and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. One of the best studied diseases where these cells are found is multiple sclerosis (MS) where a number of therapeutic interventions, including anti-CD20 depletion, have been shown to effectively deplete these cells.

Conclusion

This review summarises the latest understanding of CD20+T cells, their presence in various diseases, their putative function and how they may be an ongoing target of CD20-depleting agents. Unfortunately, our understanding of these cells is still at its infancy and ongoing study in a wider range of pathologies is required.