bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new structurally preserved fossil umbrella pine from the Jurassic of East Asia
Authors: Jiang Zikun , Tian Ning , Wang Yongdong , Li Ya , Zheng Shaolin , Xie Aowei , Zhu Yanbin
Published: June 2022

The Sciadopityaceae are today a monotypic and relict family of the Coniferales, restricted to Japan with an endemic species of Sciadopitys verticillata Sieb. et Zucc., known as umbrella pine. Megafossil remains assigned to the Sciadopityaceae have been reported from various parts of the boreal hemisphere. However, structurally preserved fossil wood of the Sciadopityaceae is poorly documented. Here we present an anatomically preserved fossil wood of the Sciadopityaceae from the Jurassic of East Asia. A new fossil wood Zhangoxylon yanliaoense gen. et sp. nov. is proposed for the specimens, which are anatomically characterized by a heterogeneous pith, endarch primary xylem, and special secondary xylem. The anatomical structures of the new genus are similar to those of the living Sciadopitys except for the type of radial pitting. The present specimen has an araucarian radial pitting, while that of the living Sciadopitys is abietinean. Therefore, Zhangoxylon gen. nov. from the Middle to Late Jurassic (Callovian to Kimmeridgian) in western Liaoning may represent the Sciadopitys‐like petrified wood which bears pith and primary xylem. This new fossil, so far, the best‐known fossil wood of the family Sciadopityaceae, sheds light on the early evolutionary history of the family Sciadopityaceae, and contributes to a better understanding of the palaeoenvironment of the Jurassic Yanliao Biota in East Asia.
The dynamics of the Sorol Trough magmatic system: Insights from bulk‐rock chemistry and mineral geochemistry of basaltic rocks
Authors: Yan Shishuai , Yan Quanshu , Shi Xuefa , Yuan Long , Liu Yanguang , Yang Gang , Ye Xiantao
Published: June 2022

The Yap trench‐island arc system, where three tectonic plates (i.e., the Philippine Sea Plate, Pacific Plate, and Caroline Plate) interact, has undergone a relatively complicated geological evolution. East of the system, the Caroline Plateau are being subducted, and the plateau has been rifted into east and west Caroline ridges by the development of the Sorol Trough. However, until now, knowledge of the nature of the basement of the Sorol Trough is lacking, which limits our understanding of the complete tectonic evolution of the Yap island arc‐trench system and the Caroline Plateau. In this study, we performed petrological and mineral geochemical (in situ major element compositions and trace element compositions) analysis of newly acquired subducting basalt samples from the Sorol Trough segment, which is being subducted along the Yap Trench, and K‐Ar age of the Sorol basalts is 23.8 ± 0.7 Ma. The results show that phenocryst minerals of basalt from Sorol Trough are mainly olivine and plagioclase, with minor clinopyroxene microlites. The forsterite (Fo) values of the olivine phenocrysts in these rocks vary from 84.97 to 86.85, and plagioclase (Pl) phenocrysts are predominantly labradorite, with a few andesine plagioclase microlites. Bulk‐rock chemical compositions confirm that these rocks are intraplate alkaline basalts and show ocean island basalt (OIB)‐like geochemical characteristics. The mantle source of these basement basalts could be peridotite, and these Sorol Trough basalts may have been formed by 5–10% partial melting of mantle spinel lherzolite. The potential temperature of the mantle beneath the Sorol Trough was inferred to be 1,331–1,393°C, shows that there is no thermal anomaly in the mantle source. In addition, the crystallization temperatures of the clinopyroxenes (1,068–1,263°C) and plagioclase (702–1,216°C) and their compositional characteristics indicate that the magmatic processes have a conspicuously fast rate of magma upwelling. In conclusion, the basalts in the Sorol Trough were the products of low‐degree partial melting of a relatively enriched mantle source that passively upwelled as the Sorol Trough separated the Caroline Ridge into its western and eastern parts.
A comparison of intracranial volume estimation methods and their cross‐sectional and longitudinal associations with age
Authors: Nerland Stener , Stokkan Therese S. , Jørgensen Kjetil N. , Wortinger Laura A. , Richard Geneviève , Beck Dani , van der Meer Dennis , Westlye Lars T. , Andreassen Ole A. , Agartz Ingrid , Barth Claudia
Published: June 2022

Intracranial volume (ICV) is frequently used in volumetric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies, both as a covariate and as a variable of interest. Findings of associations between ICV and age have varied, potentially due to differences in ICV estimation methods. Here, we compared five commonly used ICV estimation methods and their associations with age. T1‐weighted cross‐sectional MRI data was included for 651 healthy individuals recruited through the NORMENT Centre (mean age = 46.1 years, range = 12.0–85.8 years) and 2410 healthy individuals recruited through the UK Biobank study (UKB, mean age = 63.2 years, range = 47.0–80.3 years), where longitudinal data was also available. ICV was estimated with FreeSurfer (eTIV and sbTIV), SPM12, CAT12, and FSL. We found overall high correlations across ICV estimation method, with the lowest observed correlations between FSL and eTIV (r = .87) and between FSL and CAT12 (r = .89). Widespread proportional bias was found, indicating that the agreement between methods varied as a function of head size. Body weight, age, sex, and mean ICV across methods explained the most variance in the differences between ICV estimation methods, indicating possible confounding for some estimation methods. We found both positive and negative cross‐sectional associations with age, depending on dataset and ICV estimation method. Longitudinal ICV reductions were found for all ICV estimation methods, with annual percentage change ranging from −0.293% to −0.416%. This convergence of longitudinal results across ICV estimation methods offers strong evidence for age‐related ICV reductions in mid‐ to late adulthood.
Single Entity Electrochemistry and Its Application to Nanomaterial Synthesis
Authors: Park Joon Ho , Ahn Hyokyum , Ahn Hyun S.
Published: June 2022

Single entity analysis is an important research topic in electrochemistry. Thus far, collisions of nanomaterials and subsequent interaction between electrodes and particles have been studied. Single entity electrochemistry exhibited inherent heterogeneity distinct from that of ensembles. By showing various current responses, single entity electrochemistry allows us to investigate the adsorbed chemical species on the electrode surface (dielectrics, hard nanoparticles, soft nanoparticles), enabling analysis of electrode‐particle interaction at the nanoscale. Electrochemical analysis of soft nanoparticles enabled the detection of biological materials and was applied to the synthesis of nanoparticles to be used as electrocatalysts. It shows great promise as a synthetic method for various structures of nanoparticles by reducing metal ions volume confined emulsion nanodroplets.
Negative regulation of miR‐1288‐3p/KRT4 axis through a circular RNA in oral cancer
Authors: Wang Lu , Ma Xin , Yu Jie , Lou Ying
Published: June 2022

Circular RNA (circRNA) has been widely reported to be involved in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), while the way in which hsa_circ_0096042 affects OSCC remains unclear. The hsa_circ_0096042, miR‐1288‐3p, and KRT4 expression in OSCC tissues and cell lines were detected by quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction. Based on the overexpression of hsa_circ_0096042, miR‐1288‐3p, or KRT4, the viability and proliferation of OSCC cells were analyzed by cell counting kit‐8 and colony formation assay, and the protein levels of Bax and Bcl‐2 were detected by western blot, and the growth of cancer cells in vivo was analyzed by xenograft experiment. In addition, the database was used to predict the binding of hsa_circ_0096042, miR‐1288‐3p, and KRT4, and the interaction was confirmed by luciferase, RIP, and RNA pull‐down assay. Hsa_circ_0096042 and KRT4 were abnormally downregulated and miR‐1288‐3p was upregulated in OSCC. Hsa_circ_0096042 overexpression restrained the proliferation and viability of OSCC cells, facilitated apoptosis, and inhibited the growth of cancer cells in vivo. Hsa_circ_0096042 bound to miR‐1288‐3p, whose upregulation promoted OSCC progression and eliminated the effects of overexpression of hsa_circ_0096042 on OSCC cells. KRT4 was the target gene for miR‐1288‐3p. Hsa_circ_0096042 plays an antitumor role in OSCC via miR‐1288‐3p/KRT4 axis.
Increased level of free‐circulating MtDNA in maintenance hemodialysis patients: Possible role in systemic inflammation
Authors: Zhong Xiao‐Yi , Guo Yi , Fan Zhen
Published: June 2022

Background

Mitochondrial DNA (MtDNA) exposed to the extracellular space due to cell death and stress has immunostimulatory properties. However, the clinical significance of circulating MtDNA in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients and the precise mechanism of its emergence have yet to be investigated.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study consisted of 52 MHD patients and 32 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls. MHD patients were further categorized into high and low circulating cell‐free MtDNA (ccf‐MtDNA) groups based on the median value. Copy number of MtDNA was quantified using TaqMan‐based qPCR. Plasma cytokines were measured using ELISA kits. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were detected using DCFH‐DA or JC‐1 staining.

Results

The copy numbers of ccf‐MtDNA in patients with MHD were higher than those in healthy controls, and these alterations were correlated with changes of cytokines TNF‐α and IL‐6. Adjusted model in multivariate analysis showed that the presence of anuria and longer dialysis vintage were independently associated with higher levels of ccf‐MtDNA. Meanwhile, although not statistically significant, an inverse correlative trend between urinary MtDNA and ccf‐MtDNA was observed in patients with residual urine. Afterward, using PBMCs as surrogates for mitochondria‐rich cells, we found that patients in the high ccf‐MtDNA group exhibited a significantly higher ROS production and lower Δψm in cells.

Conclusions

Our data suggested that changes in ccf‐MtDNA correlate with the degree of inflammatory status in MHD patients, and that the excessive MtDNA may be caused by mitochondrial dysfunction and reduced urinary MtDNA excretion.
Validation of the Italian version of the 25‐item Hikikomori Questionnaire (HQ‐25‐I)
Authors: Fino Emanuele , Iliceto Paolo , Carcione Antonino , Giovani Eleni , Candilera Gabriella
Published: June 2022

Introduction

The present study aimed to adapt the 25‐item Hikikomori Questionnaire to the Italian context (HQ‐25‐I) and to test its psychometric properties in two samples, particularly a sample of residents with psychiatric conditions (n = 117) and a sample of individuals from the community (n = 209).

Methods

We tested the fit of the original three‐factor structure (Socialization, Isolation, and Emotional Support) and measurement invariance across the two groups, and the reliability, convergent, and criterion (concurrent) validity of the HQ‐25‐I.

Results

The results showed that the original measurement model fitted the data well and that it was invariant across the two groups. The measure was reliable and positively correlated with some maladaptive personality trait domains (PID‐5‐BF), Depression (BDI‐II), and Hopelessness (BHS) in both groups, with higher scores observed in the clinical sample. However, low correlations were found between the HQ‐25‐I and the PID‐5‐BF Detachment and Negative Affectivity.

Conclusions

The results from the study showed that the HQ‐25‐I is reliable, but further examination of its validity is warranted. Implications for theory and future research are discussed.
Parental stress and life satisfaction: A comparative study of social services users and nonusers from a gender perspective
Authors: Gómez‐Ortiz Olga , Rubio Ana , Roldán‐Barrios Andrea , Ridao Pilar , López‐Verdugo e Isabel
Published: June 2022

The psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Parental Stress Scale (PSS) scale have not been verified on the Spanish population. Similarly, the literature on gender differences and parental stress is inconclusive, and there is little evidence of their relationship with life satisfaction. To analyze the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the PSS scale, (2) to examine possible gender differences, and (3) to study the relationship between parental stress (PS) and parental rewards (PR) and satisfaction with life (SWL) attending to the possible moderating effect of gender. These objectives were examined in samples comprising Social Services Users (SSU) (N = 525; 78.3% female; Mage = 38.3) and non‐SSU users (N = 421; 41.1% male; Mage = 37.08). A CFA corroborated a two‐factor structure: PS and PR. In the SSU sample, mothers showed higher PS and lower PR. However, PR was also higher in mothers from the non‐SSU sample compared to fathers. PR and PS were directly related to SWL in the SSU sample. However, gender moderated the relationship between PR and SWL in the non‐SSU sample in the case of mothers. The results are discussed considering gender roles and the characteristics of both samples.
Fixed‐bed column adsorption of methyl orange by poly(vinyl pyrrolidone)‐functionalized manganese oxide
Authors: Khan Afsar , Naeem Abdul , Mahmood Tahira , Muhammad Nisar , Hussain Shafqat
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

Fixed‐bed column adsorption provides a practical approach for decontamination of wastewater from toxic azo dyes. A novel water‐stable poly(vinyl pyrrolidone)‐functionalized manganese oxide hydrothermally prepared for methyl orange azo dye adsorption is reported.

RESULTS

Surface studies of the composite were conducted using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction and surface area analysis. The surface area of the composite (113 m2 g−1) was greater than that of plain metal oxide (108 m2 g−1). The point of zero charge was calculated using the salt addition method. A continuous flow of methyl orange was carried out in a 40 cm long glass column under different operating conditions determining the breakthrough curve and the breakthrough point time. Experiments were carried out as a function of initial dye concentration (10–30 mg L−1), bed height (0.6–1.5 cm) and rate of flow (5–20 mL min−1) from the column at constant temperature and pH.

CONCLUSIONS

The saturation time increases from 700 to 3500 min with increase in bed length. The saturation time decreases from 2000 to 400 min with an increase in initial dye concentration. Similarly, when the flow rate is increased the saturation time and dye adsorption are reduced and the breakthrough curve becomes steeper. The adsorption data were evaluated using the Thomas model to calculate maximum adsorption at various flow rates and the Yoon–Nelson model to identify exactly the saturation point, confirming that the rate of reaction increases with increasing flow rate. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Immunolocalization of tumor suppressors arhgap28 and retinoblastoma in the lizard Podarcis muralis suggests that they contribute to the regulated regeneration of the tail
Authors: Alibardi Lorenzo
Published: June 2022

Tail regeneration in lizards is an outstanding and unique postembryonic morphogenetic process. This developmental process is regulated by poorly known factors, but recent studies have suggested that it derives from a balanced activity between oncoproteins and tumor suppressors. Transcriptome and expression data have indicated that arhgap28 and retinoblastoma proteins are among the main tumor suppressors activated during tail regeneration. However, their cellular localization is not known. Therefore, in the present immunohistochemical study, two proteins have been detected in various tissues at the beginning of their differentiation. Both proteins are present especially in the new scales, axial cartilage, and muscle bundles of the regenerating tail, the main tissues forming the new tail. Sparse or occasionally labeled cells are observed in the blastema, but intense labeling is seen in the basal layers of the wound (regenerating) epidermis and in external differentiating epidermal layers. Numerous keratinocytes also show a nuclear localization for both proteins, suggesting that the latter may activate a gene program for tissue differentiation after the inhibition of cell multiplication. Based on microscopic, molecular, experimental, and in vitro studies, a hypothesis on the “inhibition of contact” among the apical cells of the blastema and those of proximal differentiating tissues is proposed to explain the permanence of an active blastema only at the apex of the regenerating tail without tail growth can degenerate into a tumorigenic outgrowth.
Infection with adenovirus, rotavirus, and coinfection among hospitalized children with gastroenteritis in an Egyptian university hospital
Authors: Montasser Karim Abdelfattah , Youssef Manar Ibrahim , Ghandour Ahmed A. , Kamal Mostafa
Published: June 2022

Acute gastroenteritis is the main cause of mortality and morbidity in children worldwide. Studies stated that rotavirus and human adenovirus (HAdV) are common causes of nonbacterial gastroenteritis in children aged 0−5 years. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and the distribution of rotavirus, HAdV, and coinfections among hospitalized children with gastroenteritis below 7 years old and determine the prevalence of enteric HAdV among all HAdV gastroenteritis. The study was conducted on 150 children below 7 years old. Antigen detection for rotavirus and HAdV by ELISA and determination of enteric HAdV (serotype 40 and 41) by nested PCR and restriction endonucleases study were performed. Detection of rotavirus and HAdV antigens in 150 stool specimens from patients with gastroenteritis were 58% (87), 6.7% (10), and 8% (12) positive for rotavirus, HAdV, and coinfection, respectively. Out of 22 HAdV antigen‐positive cases, 15 cases were positive by PCR for enteric HAdV, with the prevalence rate of enteric HAdV gastroenteritis among all HAdV gastroenteritis cases of 68%, a serotyping study by PCR detected serotype 40 in 46.7% of cases (7/15) and serotype 41 in 53.3% of cases (8/15) with no statistically significant difference between them. The study confirmed that rotavirus and HAdV are prevalent etiological agents of diarrhea in children below the school‐age group, highlighting the necessity of the rotavirus vaccine in addition to the obligatory schedule of vaccines in Egypt. Also, it determined that the enteric HAdV gastroenteritis prevalence rate was 68% among all HAdV gastroenteritis.
Safety and efficacy of COVID‐19 vaccines in children and adolescents: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Tian Fangyuan , Yang Ruonan , Chen Zhaoyan
Published: June 2022

To systematically review and synthesize the safety and efficacy of coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) vaccines in children and adolescents. PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library databases, the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR), and ClinicalTrials.gov website were searched to collect accessible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) about the safety and efficacy of human COVID‐19 vaccines in children and adolescents until May 1, 2022. Three steps, including duplicate removal, title and abstract screening, and full‐text review, were used to screen the studies. The Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool for RCTs was used to assess the bias risk of the included studies. Microsoft Excel 16.57 (2021) software was used for data extraction and analysis. (PROSPERO Code No: CRD42021295422). COVID‐19 vaccines were evaluated in a total of 10 950 children and adolescents in seven published studies and over 49 530 participants in 26 ongoing randomized controlled trials. Descriptive findings of the included published studies were reported stratified by vaccine type. The overall, local, and systemic adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) reported in most trials were similar between the vaccine and placebo groups. Most of the reactions reported were mild to moderate, whereas a few were severe. The common adverse events were injection‐site pain, fever, headache, cough, fatigue, and muscle pain. Few clinical trials reported serious adverse events, but most of them were unrelated to vaccination. In terms of efficacy, the investigated messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine was found to be 90.7%–100% efficacious in preventing COVID‐19 among children and adolescents, revealing good efficacy profiles in this age group. Among children and adolescents, the safety of current COVID‐19 vaccines is acceptable, and studies have suggested that mRNA vaccines can provide high protection against COVID‐19 infection in pediatric age groups.
Characterization of nitrogen isotope fractionation during nitrification based on a coastal time series
Authors: Haas Sebastian , Rakshit Subhadeep , Kalvelage Tim , Buchwald Carolyn , Algar Christopher K. , Wallace Douglas W.R.
Published: June 2022

Isotopic enrichment factors are key to using stable isotope signatures in biogeochemical studies. However, these are typically determined in laboratory experiments and their applicability to environmental conditions is difficult to test. Here, we analyzed nitrogen stable isotope changes associated with nitrification in a coastal basin using weekly time‐series measurements of δ15N in particulate nitrogen, ammonium, nitrite, and nitrate. Two year‐long time series were selected as contrasting natural experiments in the ammonium‐rich, aphotic bottom water of Bedford Basin, Nova Scotia, Canada. In 2014, ammonia oxidation (AO) was associated with Thaumarchaeota and nitrite concentrations remained low (< 0.5 μmol kg−1). In contrast, transient nitrite accumulation (~ 8 μmol kg−1) and a more rapid δ15NNH4 increase in the fall of 2017 were likely caused by ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria, associated with higher AO rates and, possibly, stronger nitrogen‐isotope enrichment (15εAO). Estimates of 15εAO (21.8 ± 2.2‰, 24.1 ± 1.1‰) were derived empirically using Rayleigh models applied to field data from restricted periods during which the bottom waters approximated a closed system and influence on 15εAO from other processes was demonstrably insignificant. Using a numerical reactive‐transport model, we found that the best fit for the δ15N data was obtained with 15εAO values (18.9‰, 25.1‰) close to those determined by the Rayleigh models. The time series also revealed substantial (~ 7‰) 15N‐enrichment of the particulate nitrogen due to light‐independent assimilation of partially nitrified ammonium. Consistent with previous studies, these field‐based nitrogen isotope fractionation experiments suggest that the range of 15εAO values relevant for marine systems may be narrower than determined in laboratory studies.
Chemistry and biological activity of resin glycosides from Convolvulaceae species
Authors: Fan Bo‐Yi , Jiang Xing , Li Yu‐Xin , Wang Wen‐Li , Yang Min , Li Jian‐Lin , Wang An‐Dong , Chen Guang‐Tong
Published: June 2022

Carbohydrate‐based drug discovery has gained more and more attention during the last few decades. Resin glycoside is a kind of novel and complex glycolipids mainly distributed in plants of the family Convolvulaceae. Over the last decade, a number of natural resin glycosides and derivatives have been isolated and identified, and exhibited a broad spectrum of biological activities, such as cytotoxic, multidrug‐resistant reversal on both microbial pathogens and mammalian cancer cells, antivirus, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, sedative, vasorelaxant, laxative, and α‐glucosidase inhibitory effects, indicating their potential as lead compounds for drug discovery. A systematic review of the literature studies was carried out to summarize the chemistry and biological activity of resin glycosides from Convolvulaceae species, based on various data sources such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google scholar. The keyword “Convolvulaceae” was paired with “resin glycoside,” “glycosidic acid,” “glycolipid,” or “oligosaccharide,” and the references published between 2009 and June 2021 were covered. In this article, we comprehensively reviewed the structures of 288 natural resin glycoside and derivatives newly reported in the last decade. Moreover, we summarized the biological activities and mechanisms of action of the resin glycosides with pharmaceutical potential. Taken together, great progress has been made on the chemistry and biological activity of resin glycosides from Convolvulaceae species, however, more exploratory research is still needed, especially on the mechanism of action of the biological activities.
A novel four port reconfigurable filtering MIMO antenna
Authors: Palanisamy Rangasamy , Muthusamy Suganthi
Published: June 2022

This paper presents the design and implementation of a novel four‐port multiple input multiple output (MIMO) antenna with reconfigurable filtering characteristics. The proposed filtering MIMO antenna is constructed using a super wideband (SWB) monopole. The feedline of the monopole radiator is integrated with a microstrip filter network. Reconfigurable filtering characteristics are realized using a feed selection network making the antenna work at two modes viz. SWB mode (2.2 to over 20 GHz) and dual narrow‐band (d‐NB) mode (2.45 and 5.8 GHz). The feed selection is accomplished using a PIN diode. An interlocked four‐port MIMO antenna is then constructed using the proposed reconfigurable filtering monopole antenna. The proposed antenna exhibits an average gain greater than 5.2 dBi in both operating modes and has total efficiency greater than 80%. The MIMO parameters such as envelope correlation coefficient (ECC), diversity gain (DG), and mean effective gain (MEG) are evaluated and presented. The prototype MIMO antenna is fabricated and the experimental results are validated in real‐time. The proposed reconfigurable MIMO antenna is suitable for wireless local area network (WLAN), Internet of things (IoT), dedicated short‐range communication (DSRC), ultra‐wideband (UWB), and SWB applications in the automotive scenario.
Mapping the near‐surface trace of the seismically active Kachchh Mainland Fault and its lateral extension in the blind zone, Western India
Authors: Maurya Deepak M. , Chowksey Vikas , Shaikh Mohamedharoon A. , Patidar Atul K. , Padmalal Akash , Chamyal Laxman S.
Published: June 2022

The W–WNW‐striking Kachchh Mainland Fault (KMF) is the largest intra‐basinal fault in the Kachchh Rift Basin (KRB) located at the western continental margin of the Indian plate, and is responsible for several historic earthquakes, including the 2001 Bhuj earthquake and the 1956 Anjar earthquake. The objective of the study is to constrain the precise location and near‐surface characteristics of the KMF using field and ground penetrating radar (GPR) studies. Efforts were also made to ascertain and map the eastward continuity of the KMF. The fault has a prominent geomorphic expression up to the east of Devisar, where the KMF scarp finally dies out. The KMF marks the lithotectonic contact between Mesozoic rocks in the south and Tertiary rocks in the north. The segmented nature of the KMF has been previously attributed to transverse faults, complex deformation zones and heterogeneous assemblages of unconformable Quaternary deposits. Eight survey sites between Nirona and Sikra were chosen for near‐surface investigation of KMF using GPR. Comparatively, high‐amplitude radar reflections were received from well‐compacted sand‐ and shale‐rich Mesozoic rocks, whereas low‐amplitude weak reflections were observed from softer and clay‐rich Tertiary rocks. In the upper section of the GPR profiles, Quaternary deposits display low‐ to moderate‐amplitude semi‐continuous to wavy reflections. The traceable length of the KMF has been extended eastward by ∼20 km through the current study, which is considered a blind zone as feeble surficial evidence is present, but the fault trace is confirmed near the surface using GPR. The eastern part of the KMF is inferred to be a near‐vertical north‐dipping normal fault based on GPR data analysis. The tendency of the KMF to transform into a reverse fault in the vicinity of the intersection with transverse faults implies zones of relatively higher stress accumulation that might activate and trigger devastating earthquakes in the future.
Cluster Compounds with Oxidised, Hexanuclear [Nb6Cli12Ia6]n− Anions (n=2 or 3)
Authors: Schröder Florian , Köckerling Martin
Published: June 2022

Four mixed‐halide cluster salts with chloride‐iodide‐supported octahedral Nb6 metal atoms cores were prepared and investigated. The cluster anions have the formula [Nb6Cli12Ia6]n− with Cl occupying the inner ligand sites and I the outer one. They are one‐ or two‐electron‐oxidized (n=2 or 3) with respect to the starting material cluster. (Ph4P)+ and (PPN)+ function as counter cations. The X‐ray structures reveal a mixed occupation of the outer sites for only one compound, (PPN)3[Nb6Cli12Ia5.047(9)Cla0.953]. All four compounds are obtained in high yield. If in the chemical reactions a mixture of acetic anhydride, CH2Cl2, and trimethylsilyl iodide is used, the resulting acidic conditions lead to form the two‐electron‐oxidised species (n=2) with 14 cluster‐based electrons (CBEs). If only acetic anhydride is used, the 15 CBE species (n=3) is obtained in high yield. Interesting intermolecular bonding is found in (Ph4P)2[Nb6Cli12Ia6] ⋅ 4CH2Cl2 with I⋅⋅⋅I halogen bonding and π‐π bonding interactions between the phenyl rings of the cations in (PPN)3[Nb6Cli12Ia5.047(9)Cla0.953]. The solubility of (Ph4P)2[Nb6Cli12Ia6] ⋅ 4CH2Cl2 has been determined qualitatively in a variety of solvents, and good solubility in the aprotic solvents CH3CN, THF and CH2Cl2 has been found.
A proposed algorithm for evaluation and management of pediatric hemophilia patients who present to the emergency department with head trauma
Authors: Kracht M. Jensen , Stein Amy , Knoll Christine , Badia Alonso Priscila , Gomez Esteban , Quarmyne Maa‐Ohui , Shah Sanjay , Gendreau Joanna
Published: June 2022

Hemophilia is the deficiency of plasma clotting factor VIII (hemophilia A) or IX (hemophilia B) where management focuses on the prevention and treatment of acute bleeding symptoms and their sequelae. The most concerning risk is for life‐threatening bleeding, including intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), which is caused by head trauma. Guidelines exist for the evaluation and management of pediatric head trauma, including the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN) protocol, but limited evidence exists for when hemophilia patients present to the emergency department (ED), specifically with head trauma. Literature is limited regarding ICH and hemophilia, which further supports the culture of uncertainty among providers. The objective of this study is to conduct a retrospective chart review to determine the prevalence and clinical characteristics of ICH, and to describe computed tomography (CT) scan use in hemophilia patients who present to Phoenix Children's Hospital (PCH) ED with head trauma from January 1, 2007 to June 1, 2019. A total of 89 ED visits and 43 patients met inclusion criteria, and prevalence of ICH was determined to be 4% with the patients presenting with varied clinical characteristics and few commonalities. Using these data, we propose a new algorithm to aid clinicians in determining the need for CT scan in pediatric hemophilia patients who present to the ED with head trauma.
Mechanical, thermal, and surface morphological properties of Musa acuminate peduncle fiber‐reinforced polymeric composite: Effect of alkalization and fiber loading
Authors: Durai Praveen Nagarajan , Viswalingam Kathir , Divya D. , Senthilkumar B.
Published: June 2022

This investigation focuses on studying the properties of treated and untreated Musa acuminate peduncle fiber (MAPF)‐reinforced epoxy composites. The effect of fiber weight fraction and alkali treatment on the mechanical, thermal, and morphological characteristics of MAPF‐reinforced epoxy composites was investigated for the first time. A considerable enhancement in the tensile, impact, and flexural characteristics was observed at 20 wt% fiber; beyond 20 wt%, the properties were found to decrease. The increase in cellulose (from 66.43 to 74.22 wt%) and decrease in lignin (from 16.85 to 7.91 wt%) and hemicellulose (from 13.72 to 8.58 wt%) in alkali‐treated fiber resulted in a more crystalline structure. This led to improved tensile (tensile strength 53.61 MPa and tensile modulus 0.561 GPa), flexural (flexural strength 64.33 MPa and flexural modulus 5.43 GPa), and impact (90.33 J/m) composite properties compared to the untreated fiber composite. After tensile testing, the composite's fractured cross‐sections were investigated using scanning electron microscopy, which revealed that the alkali‐treated MAPF‐reinforced composite had fewer voids and improved fiber bonding. Thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy studies also revealed that alkali‐treated MAPFs area promising reinforcement for the epoxy polymer matrix.
Design, fabrication, and characterization of natural fillers loaded HDPE composites for domestic applications
Authors: Ayyanar C. Balaji , Dharshinii M. Dhivyya , Marimuthu K. , Akhil S. , Mugilan T. , Bharathiraj C. , Mavinkere Rangappa Sanjay , Khan Anish , Siengchin Suchart
Published: June 2022

This work aims to incorporate lignocellulosic coconut coir (CC) fillers into the HDPE matrix for domestic cloth clip product development where the strength is less significant. The structural, mechanical, and thermal properties of HDPE composites with varying weight fractions of CC fillers (10, 20 wt%) were investigated. The die for product development was designed through Pro‐E software and manufactured with relevant machining processes. The composites were fabricated through the injection molding technique as per ASTM standards. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis, the microstructure and various proportions of elements present in the composites were investigated. The presence of different functional groups and their vibrations were identified through the Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) technique. The experimental mechanical results reveal the positive effect of CC fillers in the HDPE matrix, and the results were a maximum of 20 wt% CC filler incorporation. The filler reinforcement has little effect on the thermal degradation behavior since the step of deterioration is not changed appreciably. Nevertheless, the initial degradation temperature was affected by the presence of CC fillers. Depolymerization and dehydration of diverse ingredients correspond to different endothermic peaks in the DSC curve. Based on the characterization results, the 20 wt% CC filled‐loaded partial eco‐composite was selected for cloth clip product development.
Performance of polylactic acid/polycaprolactone/microcrystalline cellulose biocomposites with different filler contents and maleic anhydride compatibilization
Authors: Ye Gaoyuan , Li Zelong , Chen Boyuan , Bai Xin , Chen Xu , Hu Yingcheng
Published: June 2022

In this study, polylactic acid (PLA)/polycaprolactone (PCL)/microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) composites and PLA/PCL/MCC composite compatibilized by the maleic anhydride (MA) copolymer were prepared via two‐screw extrusion technology. The mechanical results showed that the strength and break elongation of the ternary composites are decreased with the increase in the MCC contents. After the grafting copolymer was added, due to the better compatibility between the components of the composite, the strength and break elongation of the composite are significantly improved compared with that of ungrafted composite. According to the conducted differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis, the crystallinity of the PLA/PCL/MCC composites is increased with the increase in the MCC content, and the crystallinity of the grafted composites is higher. In addition, the 3D printed PLA/PLAma/PCL/5MCC composite exhibits good biocompatibility and adhesion with MCF‐7 cells, thus indicating its bright application prospects as a biomaterial scaffold material in tissue engineering.
Relationship between Interpersonal Sensitivity Measure score and clinical symptoms in patients with major psychiatric disorders and healthy individuals
Authors: Hidese Shinsuke , Matsuo Junko , Ishida Ikki , Yokota Yuuki , Ota Miho , Hattori Kotaro , Kunugi Hiroshi
Published: June 2022

Aim

We compared the Interpersonal Sensitivity Measure (IPSM) scores between diagnostic groups and examined the relationship between IPSM scores and clinical variables.

Methods

This study included 166 patients with schizophrenia, 47 patients with bipolar disorder (BD) Ⅰ, 110 patients with BD Ⅱ, 380 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), and 558 healthy individuals. Symptoms were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Young Mania Rating Scale, 21‐item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD‐21), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).

Results

The IPSM interpersonal awareness, separation anxiety, timidity, fragile inner self, and total scores were significantly higher in all the patient groups compared with healthy individuals (corrected p < 0.05). The IPSM need for approval score was significantly higher in patients with BD Ⅰ and those with BD Ⅱ than in those with schizophrenia or MDD (corrected p < 0.05). The PSQI total score and PANSS general psychopathology score, HAMD‐21 delusion subscale score, HAMD‐21 total score, and HAMD‐21 core subscale score and PSQI sleep disturbance subscale score were significantly and positively correlated with the IPSM total score in patients with schizophrenia, those with BD Ⅰ, those with BD Ⅱ, and those with MDD, respectively, while the PSQI total score and daytime dysfunction subscale score were significantly and positively correlated with the IPSM total score in healthy individuals (corrected p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that higher interpersonal sensitivity may play a role in the development of major psychiatric disorders and may be involved in some clinical symptom formations.
Ultrafast laser applications in the kW‐class
Authors: Holder Daniel , Henn Manuel , Peter Alexander , Faas Sebastian , Feuer Anne , Freitag Christian , Weber Rudolf , Onuseit Volkher , Graf Thomas
Published: June 2022

Ultrafast lasers are an excellent tool for processing almost all materials and for micromachining structures and geometries with sizes ranging from nanometers to millimeters. Their only weakness, the low average power of the beam source and therefore the lack of potential for high throughput, disappeared with the development of ultrafast lasers with average powers exceeding 1 kW. With the high average power, a new challenge has emerged for systems engineering and process development: achieving high throughput micromachining with high average power ultrafast lasers while maintaining high quality.
Elastic Anisotropy of 1,3,5‐Triamino‐2,4,6‐Trinitrobenzene as a Function of Temperature and Pressure: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Lafourcade Paul , Maillet Jean‐Bernard , Bruzy Nicolas , Denoual Christophe
Published: June 2022

The equation of state of the triclinic compound 1,3,5‐triamino‐2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene (TATB) as well as its second‐order isothermal elastic tensor were computed through classical molecular dynamics simulations under various temperature and pressure conditions. Hydrostatic pressures similar to previous diamond anvil cell experiments were imposed up to 60 GPa and temperatures chosen between 100 and 900 K in conjunction with the most recent version of an all‐atom fully flexible molecule force field. The isothermal elastic constants were computed using the generalized Hooke's law by fitting Cauchy stress vs. linear strain curves for pressures below 50 GPa. Along isobaric loadings, TATB single crystal stiffnesses are found to undergo softening, less pronounced at high pressure, while maintaining its elastic anisotropy. On the other hand, along an isothermal loading, a non‐linear increase is observed in the elastic constants with respect to pressure with a significant decrease in anisotropy. Towards a precise mesoscopic modelling of TATB single crystal mechanical behavior, we provide “ready to plug‐in” analytical formulations of the P, V, T equation of state and pressure‐temperature dependent non‐linear elasticity.
Evolution of homo‐oligomerization of methionine S‐adenosyltransferases is replete with structure–function constrains
Authors: Kleiner Daniel , Shapiro Tuchman Ziva , Shmulevich Fannia , Shahar Anat , Zarivach Raz , Kosloff Mickey , Bershtein Shimon
Published: June 2022

Homomers are prevalent in bacterial proteomes, particularly among core metabolic enzymes. Homomerization is often key to function and regulation, and interfaces that facilitate the formation of homomeric enzymes are subject to intense evolutionary change. However, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that drive evolutionary variation in homomeric complexes is still lacking. How is the diversification of protein interfaces linked to variation in functional regulation and structural integrity of homomeric complexes? To address this question, we studied quaternary structure evolution of bacterial methionine S‐adenosyltransferases (MATs)—dihedral homotetramers formed along a large and conserved dimeric interface harboring two active sites, and a small, recently evolved, interdimeric interface. Here, we show that diversity in the physicochemical properties of small interfaces is directly linked to variability in the kinetic stability of MAT quaternary complexes and in modes of their functional regulation. Specifically, hydrophobic interactions within the small interface of Escherichia coli MAT render the functional homotetramer kinetically stable yet impose severe aggregation constraints on complex assembly. These constraints are alleviated by electrostatic interactions that accelerate dimer‐dimer assembly. In contrast, Neisseria gonorrhoeae MAT adopts a nonfunctional dimeric state due to the low hydrophobicity of its small interface and the high flexibility of its active site loops, which perturbs small interface integrity. Remarkably, in the presence of methionine and ATP, N. gonorrhoeae MAT undergoes substrate‐induced assembly into a functional tetrameric state. We suggest that evolution acts on the interdimeric interfaces of MATs to tailor the regulation of their activity and stability to unique organismal needs.
Risk communication: a pillar of shared decision making
Authors: Laight David
Published: June 2022

Shared decision making (SDM) between patients and healthcare professionals about tests, treatments and care reflects many NHS values and firmly establishes patients at the centre of their healthcare. This article considers the benefits of successful implementation of SDM alongside some of the key challenges of risk communication.
Weighted log‐rank test to compare two survival functions in the presence of dependent censoring
Authors: Flandre Philippe
Published: June 2022

Comparing survival functions with the log‐rank test in the presence of dependent censoring can produce an invalid test result. We extend our previous work on the estimation of the survival function using prognostic variables to adjust for dependent censoring to the comparison of two survival distributions. In these estimators, the weights of a censored individual is redistributed among either a subset of patients in the risk set or all patients in the risk set but giving more weight to patients having smallest distances from the censored subject. The distance is based on two risk scores obtained from two working models, one for the failure time and one for the censoring time. Based on the estimators, we suggest a weighted log‐rank test to compare two survival distributions. A simulation study compared performance of our method with the analysis of the observed data without using auxiliary variables and with a recent method based on multiple imputation (KMIB method). With appropriate parameters, the weighted log‐rank approach provides sizes of the test comparable to the nominal value but higher powers than the two other methods. The method is illustrated with data from a breast cancer study.
Role of laser micro‐perforations on ethylene transmission rate in packaging materials used for fresh produce
Authors: Sonawane Akshay , Pathak Namrata , Weltzien Cornelia , Mahajan Pramod
Published: June 2022

Ethylene transmission through the packaging plays a vital role in determining the ethylene concentration inside the fresh produce package. Several investigations describing the oxygen, water vapour afnd carbon dioxide transmission in modified atmosphere packaging have been studied previously; however, there is a lack of studies on the ethylene transmission rate. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the ethylene transmission through a laser perforated oriented polypropylene packaging film, commonly used in fresh produce packaging. The impact of the perforation diameter (50–150 μm) and film thickness (20, 25 and 30 μm) at a temperature of 25°C on ethylene transmission rate was investigated. The ethylene transmission rate (
) varied from 6.75 to 10.06 cm3h−1. It was found to be varied significantly (p ≤ 0.05), proving its dependency on the selected perforation diameter and film thickness. An increase in the perforation diameter of packaging film increased the
exponentially, whereas the film thickness had less influence on the
. A model based on the perforation diameter and film thickness was employed with an acceptable R2 of 0.98. The model parameters (a = 17.44; b = 0.35; c = 0.14) determined in this study would be helpful in designing a packaging system for fresh produce that minimise ethylene accumulation.
Application of LC–MS/MS and UHPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap methods for determining 54 steroids in illegal dietary supplements and other sample types
Authors: Lee Ji Hyun , Jung Eun Ju , Ham Hyeon Joo , Yang Yoon Ji , Kim Nam Sook , Kim Hyung Il , Baek Sun Young
Published: June 2022

Rationale

With the development of the Internet and social network services, the public access to or use of illegal products has been increased via on/offline black markets. Steroids refer to the compounds yielding strong treatment effects on some diseases or muscle building, and are classified as the pharmaceutical compounds that are prohibited for personal use without a prescription. The prohibition is made for their potential risk to cause serious adverse effects along with their efficacies.

Methods

To monitor the distribution of illicit products containing steroids, a simple and reliable analytical method was established and validated, allowing rapid and simultaneous determination of 54 steroids in them. During the screening, LC‐Q‐Orbitrap/MS was performed first followed by quantitative analysis using LC–MS/MS. For the accurate and reliable analysis, the samples were extracted using QuEChERS to reduce the matrix effect.

Results

After the screening of 617 illegal samples advertised as being effective in alleviating various diseases or improving athletic performance with the established LC‐Q‐Orbitrap/MS method, the validated LC–MS/MS method was used to perform the quantitative analysis of the detected steroids. Of these, 142 samples were adulterated with steroids, and several samples with two or more steroids were detected. Due to the lack of previous studies on the toxicity of these illicit products, the side effects of consuming them are unpredictable and could be harmful.

Conclusions

The development of LC‐Q‐Orbitrap/MS method accompanied by LC–MS/MS could be successfully applied to the inspection of illegal steroid products for public health, enabling the rapid and accurate detection of analytes and incorporation of non‐analyte components.