bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergetic Dual‐Atom Catalysts: The Next Boom of Atomic Catalysts
Authors: Liu Huimin , Rong Hongpan , Zhang Jiatao
Published: June 2022

Dual‐atom catalysts (DACs) are an important branch of single‐atom catalysts (SACs), in which the former can effectively break the dilemma faced by the traditional SACs. The synergetic effects between bimetallic atoms provide many active sites, promising to improve catalytic performance and even catalyze more complex reactions. This paper reviews the recent research progresses of two kinds of DACs, including homonuclear and heteronuclear DACs, and their applications in oxygen reduction, carbon dioxide reduction, hydrogen evolution, oxygen evolution, Zn‐air batteries, tandem catalytic reactions, and so on. In addition, in order to promote the further development of DACs, the challenges and perspectives of DACs are put forward.
Disrupted serotonin system development via early life antidepressant exposure impairs maternal care and increases serotonin receptor expression in adult female offspring
Authors: Unroe Keaton A. , Maltman Jessica L. , Shupe Elizabeth A. , Clinton Sarah M.
Published: June 2022

Manipulating serotonin (5‐HT) levels in the developing brain elicits a range of effects on brain function and behavior. For example, early‐life exposure to selective 5‐HT reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants disrupts dorsal raphe function and triggers aberrant adult behaviors such as increased passive stress coping and anhedonia. However, much less is understood about how alterations in 5‐HT signaling in early life impact outcomes in female offspring, including critical social functions such as maternal care. The present study shows that early‐life SSRI exposure disrupts adult female offspring's maternal behavior. Pregnant/postpartum female Sprague–Dawley rats were treated with the SSRI citalopram in drinking water or provided regular tap water as control. Female offspring were raised to adulthood and mated with treatment‐naïve males. Following parturition, we observed maternal behavior during portions of the light and dark phases of postnatal days (P)1–14. Relative to controls, dams with a history of early‐life SSRI exposure exhibited decreased maternal care, including diminished arched‐back nursing, reduced licking and grooming of pups, and increased behavioral inconsistency. Brains were collected from dams with and without a history of early‐life SSRI exposure to measure relative mRNA expression of select 5‐HT receptor transcripts (5HTR1A, ‐1B, ‐2A, ‐2C) in regions involved in maternal care. Early‐life SSRI exposure augmented expression of 5‐HTR1A in the medial preoptic area and 5‐HTR1B, 5‐HTR2A, and 5‐HTR2C in the prefrontal cortex. These results demonstrate that early alterations to 5‐HT signaling through SSRI exposure may disrupt nurturing parental behaviors and 5‐HT receptor expression in affected female rat offspring.
A genotyping‐in‐thousands by sequencing panel to inform invasive deer management using noninvasive fecal and hair samples
Authors: Burgess Brock T. , Irvine Robyn L. , Russello Michael A.
Published: June 2022

Studies in ecology, evolution, and conservation often rely on noninvasive samples, making it challenging to generate large amounts of high‐quality genetic data for many elusive and at‐risk species. We developed and optimized a Genotyping‐in‐Thousands by sequencing (GT‐seq) panel using noninvasive samples to inform the management of invasive Sitka black‐tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus sitkensis) in Haida Gwaii (Canada). We validated our panel using paired high‐quality tissue and noninvasive fecal and hair samples to simultaneously distinguish individuals, identify sex, and reconstruct kinship among deer sampled across the archipelago, then provided a proof‐of‐concept application using field‐collected feces on SGang Gwaay, an island of high ecological and cultural value. Genotyping success across 244 loci was high (90.3%) and comparable to that of high‐quality tissue samples genotyped using restriction‐site associated DNA sequencing (92.4%), while genotyping discordance between paired high‐quality tissue and noninvasive samples was low (0.50%). The panel will be used to inform future invasive species operations in Haida Gwaii by providing individual and population information to inform management. More broadly, our GT‐seq workflow that includes quality control analyses for targeted SNP selection and a modified protocol may be of wider utility for other studies and systems where noninvasive genetic sampling is employed.
Modeling the potential global distribution of suitable habitat for the biological control agent Heterorhabditis indica
Authors: Kour Sumeet , Khurma Uma , Brodie Gilianne , Singh Sunil
Published: June 2022

Entomopathogenic nematode (EPN) Heterorhabditis indica is a promising biocontrol candidate. Despite the acknowledged importance of EPN in pest control, no extensive data sets or maps have been developed on their distribution at global level. This study is the first attempt to generate Ecological Niche Models (ENM) for H. indica and its global Habitat Suitability Map (HSM) for H. indica to generate biogeographical information and predicts its global geographical range and help identify of prospective areas for its exploration and to help identify the suitable release areas for biocontrol purpose. The aim of the modeling exercise was to access the influence of temperature and soil moisture on the biogeographical patterns of H. indica at the global level. Global Heterorhabditis indica ecosystems. CLIMEX software was used to model the distribution of H. indica and assess the influence of environmental variable on its global distribution. In total, 162 records of H. indica occurrence from 27 countries over 25 years were combined to generate the known distribution data. The model was further fine‐tuned using the direct experimental observations of the H. indica's growth response to temperature and soil moisture. Model predicts that much of the tropics and subtropics have suitable climatic conditions for H. indica. It further predicts that H. indica distribution can extend into warmer temperate climates. Examination of the model output, predictions maps at a global level indicate that H. indica distribution may be limited by cold stress, heat stress, and dry stresses in different areas. However, cold stress appears to be the major limiting factor. This study highlighted an efficient way to construct HSM for EPN potentially useful in the search/release of target species in new locations. The study showed that H. indica which is known as warm adapted EPN generally found in tropics and subtropics can potentially establish itself in warmer temperate climates as well. The model can also be used to decide the release timing of EPN by adjusting with season for maximum growth. The model developed in this study clearly identified the value and potential of Habitat Suitability Map (HSM) in planning of future surveys and application of H. indica.
Connect and collaborate with your marketing team, wherever you are
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: June 2022

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, many on‐campus employees became acquainted with telecommuting life. Out of necessity, this ushered in the adoption of tools and technology — many new, or at least unfamiliar — to keep us connected to our work, our campuses, and each other.
Design of water‐energy management based on neural networks for an autonomous solar and wind renewable energy system coupled with brackish water desalination
Authors: Zgalmi Abir , Cherif Habib , Belhadj Jamel
Published: June 2022

In this article, smart water‐energy management based on an artificial neural network for a photovoltaic‐wind system coupled with water pumping and reverse osmosis desalination unit with hydraulic storage is developed. The proposed system was designed to meet freshwater demand for remote areas of Tunisia's south. The authors focus on an artificial neural network‐type management strategy, ensuring power‐sharing between sources, hydraulic components, and tank storage. The main objective of the management strategy is to deliver and purify as much freshwater as possible by taking advantage of all the energy available according to climatic conditions. A parametric sensitivity algorithm is developed to find the most appropriate neural network architecture. A dynamic simulator for 1 year of operation integrates the energy management of the system is developed. The used water‐energy management‐based artificial neural network showed good results of power‐sharing during a fast time with a correlation coefficient and a coefficient of determination between the actual and estimated values of the three motor pumps electrical power equal to 96% and 98%, respectively. Also, the root mean squared error was acceptable at 0.1476. These results have been proved over a year and can be used by other researchers with a similar system.
Fire tests of steel‐to‐timber connections with high fire resistance
Authors: Dhima Dhionis , Audebert Maxime , Bouchaïr Abdelhamid , Pinoteau Nicolas
Published: June 2022

This paper presents the results of twenty‐one fire tests on unprotected steel‐to‐timber connections with dowel‐type fasteners and one or two slotted‐in steel plates. The experimental results of this type of connections available in existing studies have been mostly limited to a fire resistance duration of 60 min. The tests performed in this study target a significant increase of fire resistance to reach 90 and 120 min. Two configurations of connections with one and two slotted‐in steel plates, i.e., two or four shear planes, were tested. The temperatures were measured at different locations in the wood members and along the steel plates. Two load levels for fire tests were determined on the basis of tests performed at ambient temperature. The experimental results show that the specimens proposed for steel‐to‐timber connections with dowel‐type fasteners are suitable for achieving fire resistance of 90 and 120 min.
IL‐31 levels correlate with pruritus in patients with cholestatic and metabolic liver diseases and is farnesoid X receptor responsive in NASH
Authors: Xu Jun , Wang Ya , Khoshdeli Mina , Peach Matt , Chuang Jen‐Chieh , Lin Julie , Tsai Wen‐Wei , Mahadevan Sangeetha , Minto Wesley , Diehl Lauri , Gupta Ruchi , Trauner Michael , Patel Keyur , Noureddin Mazen , Kowdley Kris V. , Gulamhusein Aliya , Bowlus Christopher L. , Huss Ryan S. , Myers Robert P. , Chung Chuhan , Billin Andrew N.
Published: June 2022

Background and Aims:

Pruritus is associated with multiple liver diseases, particularly those with cholestasis, but the mechanism remains incompletely understood. Our aim was to evaluate serum IL‐31 as a putative biomarker of pruritus in clinical trials of an farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist, cilofexor, in patients with NASH, primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC).

Approach and Results:

Serum IL‐31 was measured in clinical studies of cilofexor in NASH, PSC, and PBC. In patients with PSC or PBC, baseline IL‐31 was elevated compared to patients with NASH and healthy volunteers (HVs). IL‐31 correlated with serum bile acids among patients with NASH, PBC, and PSC. Baseline IL‐31 levels in PSC and PBC were positively correlated with Visual Analog Scale for pruritus and 5‐D itch scores. In patients with NASH, cilofexor dose‐dependently increased IL‐31 from Week (W)1 to W24. In patients with NASH receiving cilofexor 100 mg, IL‐31 was higher in those with Grade 2–3 pruritus adverse events (AEs) than those with Grade 0–1 pruritus AEs. IL‐31 weakly correlated with C4 at baseline in patients with NASH, and among those receiving cilofexor 100 mg, changes in IL‐31 and C4 from baseline to W24 were negatively correlated. IL‐31 messenger RNA (mRNA) was elevated in hepatocytes from patients with PSC and NASH compared to HVs. In a humanized liver murine model, obeticholic acid increased IL‐31 mRNA expression in human hepatocytes and serum levels of human IL‐31.

Conclusions:

IL‐31 levels correlate with pruritus in patients with cholestatic disease and NASH, with FXR agonist therapy resulting in higher serum levels in the latter group. IL‐31 appears to derive in part from increased hepatocyte expression. These findings have therapeutic implications for patients with liver disease and pruritus.
Feasibility of applying pAAm/CA/MMT hydrogels AS slow release fertilizers
Authors: de Macedo Osmir Fabiano L. , Bezerra Rafaella L. N. , Oliveira Rhayza V. M. , Cunha Graziele C. , Romão Luciane P. C.
Published: June 2022

Background

Due to population growth, new technologies are needed for the production of fertilizers that can assist in increasing agricultural yields, while at the same time reducing environmental impacts. This article describes the synthesis, characterization, and behavior of a new series of hydrogels composed of polyacrylamide (pAAm), cellulose acetate (CA), and montmorillonite (MMT), suitable for the controlled release of fertilizers. The synergistic effects of the components were evaluated in sorption and desorption studies of a nitrogen fertilizer.

Results

Four hydrogels were obtained: A, B, C, and D, with 0%, 5%, 10%, and 20% of MMT, respectively, in all cases with 10% of CA. The nitrogen contents of hydrogels A‐D were 21.9%, 26.7%, 29.4%, and 25.2%, respectively. Hydrogel C absorbed the greatest amount of solution. Increase of the MMT content from 5% to 10% (w/w) led to swelling increases of 45%, 60%, 27%, and 20.7% at pH 5.0, 6.0, 7.0, and 9.0, respectively. Soil water retention assays showed that the soil containing the synthesized hydrogels retained up to 39% more water, compared to soil without hydrogel, with release during up to 30 days. The hydrogels presented low recovery percentages for applied nitrogen (around 42% lower than for the treatment with urea alone), demonstrating the effectiveness of the materials in reducing losses of nitrogen by leaching. The release of urea in the soil from hydrogel C (pAAm/10% MMT/10% CA) was gradual (25%, 75%, and 89% at 5, 20, and 30 days), indicative of slow release behavior.

Conclusions

The presence of montmorillonite in the hydrogel caused the system to release the nutrient in a more controlled manner than obtained with the pure hydrogel. Hydrogel C, containing 10% montmorillonite and 10% cellulose acetate, showed excellent rates of swelling and nitrogen release in soil. The total nutrient values showed that this new material is potentially viable for application in agriculture.
Soil organic carbon estimation along an altitudinal gradient of chir pine forests in the Garhwal Himalaya, India: A field inventory to remote sensing approach
Authors: Kumar Munesh , Kumar Amit , Thakur Tarun Kumar , Sahoo Uttam Kumar , Kumar Rahul , Konsam Bobbymoore , Pandey Rajiv
Published: June 2022

Chir pine (Pinus roxburghii, Sarg.) forests are dominant in the Indian Himalayan region and act as a huge carbon (C) sink. However, measuring the C sink in soil is complex and time‐intensive, and therefore the present study attempts to estimate the soil organic carbon (SOC) through a remote sensing (RS) approach. We estimated SOC stock of chir pine forests along an altitudinal gradient at three soil depths (0–30, 30–60 and 60–100 cm) in the Garhwal Himalaya, Uttarakhand. Fourteen forest stands at four altitudes, viz., <1000 m above sea level (m asl), 1001–1400 m asl, 1401–1800 m asl and >1801 m asl were surveyed and served for data collection. A model for predicting SOC was developed through stepwise regression analysis based on vegetation information and altitude as independent variables with the field data on SOC. For vegetation information, we used the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) measured through remote sensing (RS). The mean SOC stock up to 100 cm depth was increased with increasing altitude and were in the order of 69.66 ± 19.86, 85.27 ± 17.53, 95.68 ± 7.90 and 148.41 ± 71.39 million g ha−1 (million gram per hectare) for <1000, 1001–1400, 1401–1800 and >1801 m_asl, respectively. The result showed that NDVI was a good predictor for SOC estimation. The model predicted SOC stock between 57 and 152 million g ha−1 with a mean of 93 million g ha−1, which was close to the SOCs from field inventory. Therefore, RS could be used to precisely map the SOC stock in the chir pine forests of the Himalayas through NDVI and provide information to policymakers for forest management.
Metasurface Holography Reaching the Highest Efficiency Limit in the Visible via One‐Step Nanoparticle‐Embedded‐Resin Printing
Authors: Kim Joohoon , Oh Dong Kyo , Kim Hongyoon , Yoon Gwanho , Jung Chunghwan , Kim Jaekyung , Badloe Trevon , Kang Hyunjung , Kim Seokwoo , Yang Younghwan , Lee Jihae , Ko Byoungsu , Ok Jong G. , Rho Junsuk
Published: June 2022

Metasurface holography, the reconstruction of holographic images by modulating the spatial amplitude and phase of light using metasurfaces, has emerged as a next‐generation display technology. However, conventional fabrication techniques used to realize metaholograms are limited by their small patterning areas, high manufacturing costs, and low throughput, which hinder their practical use. Herein, a high efficiency hologram using a one‐step nanomanufacturing method with a titanium dioxide nanoparticle‐embedded‐resin, allowing for high‐throughput and low‐cost fabrication is demonstrated. At a single wavelength, a record high theoretical efficiency of 96.9% is demonstrated with an experimentally measured conversion efficiency of 90.6% and zero‐order diffraction of 7.3% producing an ultrahigh‐efficiency, twin‐image free hologram that can even be directly observed under ambient light conditions. Moreover, a broadband meta‐atom with an average efficiency of 76.0% is designed, and a metahologram with an average efficiency of 62.4% at visible wavelengths from 450 to 650 nm is experimentally demonstrated.
Reinforcement Effects of Inorganic Nanoparticles for PAM‐g‐carboxymethyl Xylan Nanocomposite Hydrogels
Authors: Liu Xinxin , Chang Minmin , Zhang Hui , Ren Junli
Published: June 2022

A variety of 0D nanoparticles (MgO, ZnO, Al2O3, Fe2O3, SiO2, and TiO2) as nanofiller materials are introduced into polyacrylamide‐g‐carboxymethyl xylan (PAM‐g‐CMX) composite hydrogel. The effects of different shapes and different sizes of nanoparticles on the properties of hydrogels are investigated. The properties of nanocomposite hydrogels are analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), rheological analysis, swelling analysis, and mechanical test. Composite hydrogels with nanoparticles exhibit uniform pore structure and smaller pore size in SEM images, resulting in a reduced equilibrium swelling ratio. In addition, the results show that the hydroxyl groups on the surface of the nanoparticles forms hydrogen bonds with the amino groups and carboxyl groups in the PAM‐g‐CMX cross‐linked network which improve the mechanical strength of nanocomposite hydrogels. The hydrogel with 20 nm MgO has the maximum compressive strength (550.9 kPa), tensile strength (28.6 kPa), and the longest elongation (813%) owing to the spherical shape and small size of MnO (20 nm). The hydrogels with nanoparticles maintain the originated 90% strength after 30 cycles of compressive test. The hydrogels with nanoparticles will offer new insights for xylan application.
Squaric Ester‐Based Nanogels Induce No Distinct Protein Corona but Entrap Plasma Proteins into their Porous Hydrogel Network
Authors: Huppertsberg Anne , Leps Christian , Alberg Irina , Rosenauer Christine , Morsbach Svenja , Landfester Katharina , Tenzer Stefan , Zentel Rudolf , Nuhn Lutz
Published: June 2022

After intravenous administration of nanocarriers, plasma proteins may rapidly adsorb onto their surfaces. This process hampers the prediction of the nanocarriers’ pharmacokinetics as it determines their physiological identity in a complex biological environment. Toward clinical translation it is therefore an essential prerequisite to investigate the nanocarriers’ interaction with plasma proteins. Here, this work evaluates a highly “PEGylated” squaric ester‐based nanogel with inherent prolonged blood circulation properties. After incubation with human blood plasma, the nanogels are isolated by asymmetrical flow‐field flow fractionation. Multiangle light scattering measurements confirm the absence of significant size increases as well as aggregation upon plasma incubation. However, proteomic analyses by gel electrophoresis find minor absolute amounts of proteins (3 wt%), whereas label‐free liquid chromatography mass spectrometry identify 65 enriched proteins. Interestingly, the relative abundance of these proteins is almost similar to their proportion in pure native plasma. Due to the nanogels’ hydrated and porous network morphology, it is concluded that the detected proteins rather result from passive diffusion into the nanogel network than from specific interactions at the plasma particle interface. Consequently, these results do not indicate a classical surface protein corona but rather reflect the highly outer and inner stealth‐like behavior of the porous hydrogel network.
MH and societal stigma: Changing attitudes may be a solution
Authors: Maxson Benjamin
Published: June 2022

Stigmas have been a large part of society for as long as can be remembered, involving the labeling, disempowering, ostracizing, excluding, discriminating and stereotyping of individuals. Society has both seen and perpetuated the mistreatment of individuals consciously and unconsciously, largely through lack of information and societal processes that normalize placing individuals in categories. This is a psychological process that enables the brain to be at rest, because it is easier to see things as black or white, good or bad, acceptable or unacceptable than to exert the mental effort to empathize with and see each individual as unique. I call this seeing in the gray vs. black and white thinking. It is crucial that society learn this way of seeing. The stigma process is a disservice to society as a whole because the dominant culture will not benefit from the unique contributions of these individuals in our social structures and the process will hinder the individual from acceptance, growth, opportunity and overall well‐being.
Study identifies rural groups facing barriers to telehealth
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: June 2022

A newly published study of telehealth services for mental health patients in rural areas suggests that men, older adults and those with less education might need to be more closely targeted in efforts to improve telehealth's effectiveness. Published online last week in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, the study also calls attention to the digital divide as a major barrier to telehealth success and a significant social determinant of health.
Modeling the effect of Fangcang shelter hospitals on the control of COVID‐19 epidemic
Authors: Wang Aili , Guo Jin , Gong Yinjiao , Zhang Xueying , Yan Rong
Published: June 2022

The ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic has posed a tremendous threat to the public and health authorities. Wuhan, as one of the cities experiencing the earliest COVID‐19 outbreak, has successfully tackled the epidemic finally. The main reason is the implementing of Fangcang shelter hospitals, which rapidly and massively scale the health system's capacity to treat COVID‐19 confirmed cases with mild symptoms. To give insights on what degree Fangcang shelter hospitals have contained COVID‐19 in Wuhan, we proposed a piecewise smooth model regarding the patient triage scheme and the bed capacities of Fangcang shelter hospitals and designated hospitals. We used data on the cumulative number of confirmed cases, recovered cases, deaths, and data on the number of hospitalized individuals in Fangcang shelter hospitals and designated hospitals in Wuhan to parameterize the targeted model. Our results showed that diminishing the bed capacity or delaying the opening time of Fangcang shelter hospitals, both would result in worsening the epidemic by increasing the total number of infectives and hospitalized individuals and the effective reproduction number
. The findings demonstrated that Fangcang shelter hospitals avoided 17,013 critical infections and 17,823 total infections while it saved 7 days during the process of controlling the effective reproduction number
. Our study highlighted the critical role of Fangcang shelter hospitals in curbing and eventually stopping COVID‐19 outbreak in Wuhan, China. These findings may provide a valuable reference for decision‐makers in regarding ramping up the health system capacity to isolate groups of people with mild symptoms in areas of widespread infection.
Solitons and symmetry reduction solutions of a nonlocal two‐mode Korteweg–de Vries equation
Authors: Liu Xi‐zhong , Yu Jun
Published: June 2022

The two‐mode Korteweg–de Vries (TMKdV) equation describes propagation of two different waves modes simultaneously. By using consistent correlated bang (CCB) method, a nonlocal form of the TMKdV equation is constructed and converted into two local equations with its dependent variables having definite parity. Multiple soliton solutions of the nonlocal TMKdV equation are obtained by using known multiple soliton solutions of the TMKdV equation, and some singular travelling wave solutions are also generated in a similar way. The classical Lie symmetry method is also carried on the nonlocal TMKdV equation to get its symmetry reduction solutions.
Boundary controllability for a degenerate and singular wave equation
Authors: Allal Brahim , Moumni Alhabib , Salhi Jawad
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we deal with the boundary controllability of a one‐dimensional degenerate and singular wave equation with degeneracy and singularity occurring at the boundary of the spatial domain. Exact boundary controllability is proved in the range of both subcritical and critical potentials and for sufficiently large time, through a boundary controller acting away from the degenerate/singular point. By duality argument, we reduce the problem to an observability estimate for the corresponding adjoint system, which is proved by means of the multiplier method and new Hardy‐type inequalities.
Time‐dependent neural networks with activation functions violating the standard Lipschitz condition
Authors: Tatar Nasser‐eddine , Rathinasamy Sakthivel
Published: June 2022

A Hopfield neural network system with discrete (or variable delays) is considered in this paper. The standard assumption of Lipschitz continuity of the activation functions is dropped partially. Having in mind that this condition is needed not only for the uniqueness of solutions but also for the stability of the system, the present work improves the existing ones in the literature. The other feature here, which is in fact the main one, is the treatment of time‐dependent activation functions. The time‐independent case has been discussed by one of the authors in Tatar (2020). Unfortunately, it is not applicable to the present situation. Indeed, when applied, it will require a uniform boundedness condition. To overcome this difficulty, we provide here a new argument in addition to the introduction of some functionals.
Safety and outcomes of eculizumab for acetylcholine receptor‐positive generalized myasthenia gravis in clinical practice
Authors: Suh Joome , Clarke Virginia , Amato Anthony A. , Guidon Amanda C.
Published: June 2022

Introduction/Aims

Safety and outcomes data on eculizumab for generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) in clinical practice remain limited. Outcomes and concomitant medication use may differ in practice compared with clinical trials. We analyzed the clinical and safety outcomes of patients who received eculizumab at our institutions.

Methods

Patients with acetylcholine receptor antibody positive (AChR+) gMG, who received ≥1 dose of eculizumab and had ≥1 follow‐up before December 10, 2021, were identified. Data were abstracted by chart review. Outcomes included MG Foundation of America Post Intervention Status (MGFA‐PIS), Clinical Classification (MGFA‐CC), MG‐Activities of Daily Living (MG‐ADL), concurrent immunomodulatory therapy use, and adverse events.

Results

Twelve patients were included. Mean age at eculizumab initiation was 57.4 y (range, 21–77). Eight had refractory MG. Four had history of thymoma and thymectomy. A mean of 3.2 (range, 2–5) immunomodulatory therapies were previously tried. Mean follow‐up duration was 18 mo (range, 2–21.6). Clinical improvement occurred rapidly; MGFA‐PIS was improved in 80%, and MGFA‐CC improved in 83% at 1 mo. Mean MG‐ADL decreased from 8.7 to 2.8 at 1 mo, and remained .5 over 1.5 y. Mean daily prednisone dose decreased from 22.5 mg to 7.2 mg at 1.5 y. Five of 7 patients discontinued maintenance IVIG or PLEX. No patients had meningococcal infections and adverse events were mild.

Discussion

Clinical improvement occurred in most patients after eculizumab initiation, beginning as quickly as 1 mo. Steroids were tapered and maintenance IVIG and PLEX were discontinued in most. Eculizumab had a favorable safety profile even when combined with other immunosuppressants.
How small nonprofits can minimize admin and maximize mission
Authors: Driscoll Carolyn ,   Founder and CEO of Uncommon Good
Published: June 2022

Nonprofit organizations play a fundamental role within their communities. Providing services such as healthcare, financial aid, education, animal welfare and general support. They are pillars to their respective communities giving a voice to those they serve. All nonprofits have their own unique missions and inspirations behind these objectives. However, a significant challenge for these organizations is maintaining adequate overhead costs to ensure that budgets are effectively managed and finding appropriate donor tools (Donor Tools Feature—Uncommon Good, 2022a) and marketing software (Marketing Features—Uncommon Good, 2022b) can be like finding a needle in a haystack.
Effective time step analysis for the Allen–Cahn equation with a high‐order polynomial free energy
Authors: Lee Seunggyu , Yoon Sungha , Lee Chaeyoung , Kim Sangkwon , Kim Hyundong , Yang Junxiang , Kwak Soobin , Hwang Youngjin , Kim Junseok
Published: June 2022

An effective time step analysis to the linear convex splitting scheme for the Allen–Cahn equation with a high‐order polynomial free energy is presented in this article. Although the convex splitting scheme is unconditionally stable, using a large time step causes a time step rescaling effect, leading to delayed dynamics of the governing equation. We verify this problem by comparing it with a reformulated semi‐implicit scheme using the effective time step. Theoretical results show that the discrete energy stability and maximum‐principle hold, and the numerical results demonstrate that the time step rescaling issue can be resolved using the effective time step. We confirm that slow dynamics due to high‐order potential is alleviated by the time step modification through the results of motion by mean curvature.
Multi‐institutional analysis of central nervous system germ cell tumors in patients with Down syndrome
Authors: Harris Micah K. , Graham Richard T. , Cappellano Andréa M. , Margol Ashley S. , Michaiel George , Crawford John R. , Ioakeim‐Ioannidou Myrsini , Stanek Joseph R. , Liu Kevin X. , MacDonald Shannon M. , Abdelbaki Mohamed S.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Primary germ cell tumors (GCTs) are the most common central nervous system (CNS) neoplasm in patients with Down syndrome (DS). However, a standard of care has not been established due to paucity of data.

Methods

A retrospective multi‐institutional analysis was conducted, in addition to a comprehensive review of the literature.

Results

Ten patients from six institutions (five USA, one Brazil) were identified, in addition to 31 patients in the literature from 1975 to 2021. Of the 41 total patients (mean age 9.9 years; 61% male), 16 (39%) had non‐germinomatous germ cell tumors (NGGCTs), 16 (39%) had pure germinomas, and eight (19.5%) had teratomas. Basal ganglia was the most common tumor location (n = 13; 31.7%), followed by posterior fossa (n = 7; 17%). Nine patients (22%) experienced disease relapse or progression, of which four died from tumor progression (one germinoma, three teratomas). Sixteen patients (39%) experienced treatment‐related complications, of which eight (50%) died (five germinomas, three NGGCTs). Of the germinoma patients, two died from chemotherapy‐related sepsis, one from postsurgery cardiopulmonary failure, one from pneumonia, and one from moyamoya following radiation therapy (RT). Of the NGGCT patients, one died from chemotherapy‐related sepsis, one from postsurgical infection, and one from pneumonia following surgery/chemotherapy/RT. Three‐year overall survival was 66% for all histological types: 62% germinomas, 79% for NGGCTs, and 53% for teratomas.

Conclusion

Patients with DS treated for CNS GCTs are at an increased risk of treatment‐related adverse events. A different therapeutic approach may need to be considered to mitigate treatment‐related complications and long‐term neurocognitive sequelae.
Relationship of executive functioning and memory to autism symptomology and adaptive functioning: Implications for reducing future underemployment
Authors: Hernández Finch Maria E. , Trammell Beth , Hulse Asia R. , Finch William H. , Wildrick Aimee , Floyd Elizabeth F. , Pittenger Jenna , McIntosh David E.
Published: June 2022

Understanding the relationship between executive functioning and its connection to working memory and adaptive functioning can inform planning and employment efforts. This study explored the relationship between memory and adaptive functioning with a sample of Autistic youths/young adults. Participant mean age was 21.3 (SD = 3.0). Of the 22 participants, 17 were male, and 19 white, non‐Hispanic/Latina/o/x. All but one lived with their parent(s). Participants were administered a full battery assessing cognitive ability (WAIS‐IV), memory and executive functioning (WMS‐IV and DKEFS), autism symptomatology (ADOS‐II), and adaptive functioning (SIB‐R). A multivariate lasso regression model was used. Memory, especially as measured on the WMS‐IV, was found to be significantly related to adaptive functioning and autism symptomatology. There appears to be continuing evidence that memory is highly related to adaptive functioning and autism symptomatology. Interventions involving auditory and immediate memory could be helpful in promoting more mutually effective social interactions necessary for positive employment outcomes.
Release of ‘FL4XR16’ tetraploid annual ryegrass
Authors: Kenworthy Kevin E. , Reith Paul , Quesenberry Ken , Rios Esteban Fernando , Blount Ann R.
Published: June 2022

‘FL4XR16’ (Reg. no. CV‐289, PI 699961) tetraploid forage‐type annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) is a synthetic cultivar selected for mid‐late maturity, high dry matter (DM) yield, and resistance to gray leaf spot (GLS). In spring 2016, a nursery of ‘FL Red’ experienced a high incidence of GLS, and 50 highly disease resistant individual plants were replanted and intercrossed. Seed from this intercross was used to establish a half‐sib nursery in fall 2016. The nursery was subsequently rogued for uniform maturity, and the remaining plants were allowed to intercross to produce the base population FL4XR16 in spring 2017. The base population went through one additional cycle of selection for uniformity. Seed harvested from this final selection cycle or a later isolated increase of this population was used to establish DM yield experiments at Citra, FL, and Tifton, GA, in 2018–2019; at Hague, FL, and Tifton in 2019–2020; and at Hague in 2020–2021 for a total of five location‐years. FL4XR16 was not significantly different in DM yield from the top entry in a given test in four of these five experiments. Maturity ratings at Gainesville, FL, show that FL4XR16 was mid‐late in maturity. The locations of evaluation for this cultivar have primarily been in the Coastal Plains region of the United States, but considering its pedigree, it is expected to perform well across the southern U.S. annual ryegrass growing region. Production and marketing rights for FL4XR16 have been granted to Smith Seed Services, Halsey, OR.
Recent advances in isobaric labeling and applications in quantitative proteomics
Authors: Sivanich Michael K. , Gu Ting‐Jia , Tabang Dylan Nicholas , Li Lingjun
Published: June 2022

Mass spectrometry (MS) has emerged at the forefront of quantitative proteomic techniques. Liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) can be used to determine abundances of proteins and peptides in complex biological samples. Several methods have been developed and adapted for accurate quantification based on chemical isotopic labeling. Among various chemical isotopic labeling techniques, isobaric tagging approaches rely on the analysis of peptides from MS2‐based quantification rather than MS1‐based quantification. In this review, we will provide an overview of several isobaric tags along with some recent developments including complementary ion tags, improvements in sensitive quantitation of analytes with lower abundance, strategies to increase multiplexing capabilities, and targeted analysis strategies. We will also discuss limitations of isobaric tags and approaches to alleviate these restrictions through bioinformatic tools and data acquisition methods. This review will highlight several applications of isobaric tags, including biomarker discovery and validation, thermal proteome profiling, cross‐linking for structural investigations, single‐cell analysis, top‐down proteomics, along with applications to different molecules including neuropeptides, glycans, metabolites, and lipids, while providing considerations and evaluations to each application.
Overexpression of glutamate‐gated chloride channel in the integument is mainly responsible for emamectin benzoate resistance in the western flower thripsFrankliniella occidentalis
Authors: Gao Yue , Yoon Kyungjae Andrew , Lee Jong Hyeok , Kim Ju Hyeon , Lee Si Hyeock
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

Western flower thripsFrankliniella occidentalisis a serious polyphagous pest worldwide. In this study, we investigated the potential mechanisms of resistance including enhanced metabolism and target site insensitivity in an emamectin benzoate (EB)‐resistant (EB‐R) strain.

RESULTS

The EB‐R strain ofF. occidentalisshowed 356‐fold increased resistance compared to a susceptible RDA strain. Analysis of cross‐resistance to four other insecticides confirmed that EB resistance is highly specific to the contact toxicity of EB. Synergistic bioassay and quantitative PCR of cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP) genes revealed that three overexpressedCyps were likely involved in resistance. Among three putative glutamate‐gated chloride channel (GluCl) genes identified,FoGluClcshowed four radical amino acid substitutions and 3.8‐fold and 31‐fold transcription level in the head and integument in the EB‐R strain when compared to the RDA strain. Backcrossing analysis and RNA interference confirmed that both amino acid substitution and overexpression ofFoGluClcare responsible for EB resistance.In situhybridization revealed that FoGluClc is mainly distributed in the integument in the EB‐R strain. Cross‐comparison of known genomes and transcriptomes of thrips species revealed thatFoGluClcis unique to theFrankliniellagenus.

CONCLUSION

While mutations and overexpression of FoGluClc play major roles in EB resistance, the overexpressedCyps are partially involved as metabolic factors. Higher expression of FoGluClc in the integument may suggest its role in the first‐line defense against EB in the EB‐R strain. Unique distribution of FoGluClc in theFrankliniellagenus but not in other thrips species further suggests that FoGluClc may be a surplus channel not having an essential endogenous function and is thus recruited as a defense barrier against xenobiotics. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Enhanced Resonant Energy Transfer by Decorating Au Nanoparticles on the Sidewalls of InGaN Multiple‐Quantum‐Well Nanorods
Authors: Sang Yimeng , Zhuang Zhe , Tao Tao , Zhang Dongqi , Chen Kai , Zhi Ting , Xie Zili , Liu Bin , Zhang Rong
Published: June 2022

An enhanced resonant energy transfer (RET) process between green InGaN multiple quantum wells (MQWs) and CdSe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) is investigated by decorating the sidewalls of InGaN MQW nanorods with Au nanoparticles. The InGaN MQW nanorods are shallow‐etched to the region of InGaN MQWs or deep‐etched through InGaN MQWs completely. The Au nanoparticles can provide localized surface plasmon coupling to both InGaN MQWs and QDs, leading to accelerated decay rates. The localized surface plasmons also enhance the RET process between InGaN MQWs and QDs. Compared to the bare nanorods without Au nanoparticles, the enhancement factors of the RET process are 1.8 and 5.6 for shallow‐ and deep‐etched MQW nanorods, respectively. The larger enhancement factor for deep‐etched nanorods is mainly attributed to the weaker localized surface plasmon coupling with InGaN MQWs, which is proposed to compete with the RET process. The RET efficiency in the deep‐etched InGaN MQW nanorods is calculated as 62%, demonstrating high potential for usage in energy conversion devices.
Reliability evaluation of phased mission system under multiple correlated failure modes
Authors: Du Xuejiao , Zhou Caihong , Gai Jingbo , Yan Ke
Published: June 2022

Many large complex equipment, such as spacecraft and satellite, are typical Phased Mission Systems (PMSs). Due to sophisticated structure and complex missions, the components and systems of PMS have multiple failure modes which are correlated. On the one hand, taking multiple correlated failure modes in to consideration can describe the multistate characteristics of the system more accurately and decouple the correlation between different phases of the system more clearly. On the other hand, its complexity makes the reliability evaluation of PMS more difficult. To solve this problem, this paper discusses the modeling method of multiple failure modes and their correlation, proposes an improved combination method of Multiple Failure Mode Tree (MFMT) and Multistate and Multivalued Decision Diagram (MMDD) model, and realizes the reliability evaluation of PMS in cross‐level (failure mode‐component‐system) and cross‐scale (single phase‐multiple phases). Finally, the proposed method is applied to evaluate the reliability of the satellite attitude orbit control system (AOCS) in order to verify its feasibility.
Experimental Quantum Embedding for Machine Learning
Authors: Gianani Ilaria , Mastroserio Ivana , Buffoni Lorenzo , Bruno Natalia , Donati Ludovica , Cimini Valeria , Barbieri Marco , Cataliotti Francesco S. , Caruso Filippo
Published: June 2022

The classification of big data usually requires a mapping onto new data clusters which can then be processed by machine learning algorithms by means of more efficient and feasible linear separators. Recently, Lloyd et al. have advanced the proposal to embed classical data into quantum ones: these live in the more complex Hilbert space where they can get split into linearly separable clusters. Here, these ideas are implemented by engineering two different experimental platforms, based on quantum optics and ultra‐cold atoms, respectively, where we adapt and numerically optimize the quantum embedding protocol by deep learning methods, and test it for some trial classical data. A similar analysis is also performed on the Rigetti superconducting quantum computer. Therefore, it is found that the quantum embedding approach successfully works also at the experimental level and, in particular, we show how different platforms could work in a complementary fashion to achieve this task. These studies might pave the way for future investigations on quantum machine learning techniques especially based on hybrid quantum technologies.
Event‐triggered finite‐time quantized stabilization of discrete singular jump systems
Authors: Zhang Yingqi , Li Ying , Yan Jingjing , Liu Caixia
Published: June 2022

This article concerns the singular finite‐time bounded admissible problem of discrete‐time singular Markov jump network systems (SJNSs) with event‐triggered (ET) mechanism and quantizations. According to ET communication strategy and quantized control mechanism, an SJNS model is initially derived. Then, sufficient criteria are established to ensure that the SJNS is singular finite‐time bounded admissible. Furthermore, ET finite‐time quantized controllers and ET matrix gains are co‐designed for the SJNS model based on variable decoupling method, and the feasibility of proposed approach can be converted into convex optimization problem. Additionally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated through simulations by an application to DC model.
A satellite perspective on the movement decisions of African elephants in relation to nomadic pastoralists
Authors: Duporge Isla , Finerty Genevieve E. , Ihwagi Festus , Lee Stephen , Wathika Jane , Wu Zijing , Macdonald David W. , Wang Tiejun
Published: June 2022

The African savannah ecosystem is populated by nomadic pastoralists who herd livestock in the day and corral them at night in temporary enclosures, called bomas, to protect them. The number and distribution of bomas on the savannah is important from an ecological perspective and may have a significant impact on wildlife movement. However, no study has yet examined this relationship. Here, using very high‐resolution satellite imagery from two time periods, we quanitified changes in boma distribution and density across an area of 3377 km2 in the Laikipia‐Samburu ecosystem of northern Kenya between 2011 and 2019. To assess wildlife movement in relation to bomas, we used a GPS data set on African bush elephant Loxodonta africana movement from 27 collared matriarchs representing herds of 9–15, covering 112 467 hourly GPS fixes over 31 months between 2018 and 2020. Our results showed a more than 46% increase in the total number of human‐built structures between 2011 and 2019, the majority of which were bomas, representing a 21.9% increase in human‐modified land area. Elephants readily adjusted their foraging habits and itineraries in this habitat shared with humans, who were also nomadic in space and time. Assessing the night–day activity ratio, we found elephants move more nocturnally when in closer proximity to bomas, particularly during the dry season. This temporal separation means elephants avoid the times humans are active in and around bomas while still accessing required resources—water and forage. The temporal shift was stronger during the dry season when shared resources are scarce. Using daily travel distance as a metric, we show elephants moved further in closer proximity to bomas which was likely linked to the need to travel between forage patches. Given the rise in human settlements, understanding the consequences of animals' behavioral adjustments is critical to understand the long‐term population viability of elephant populations.
Ultrasound‐ and Microwave‐promoted Synthesis, Growth‐regulating Activity and Antimicrobial Behavior of Trimecaine‐based Ionic Compounds
Authors: Dauletbakov Anuar , Zazybin Alexey , Yu Valentina , Belyankova Yelizaveta , Ten Assel , Rafikova Khadichakhan , Zolotareva Darya , Anapiyayev Bakytzhan , Seilkhanov Tulegen , Aydemir Murat
Published: June 2022

The present work describes the synthesis, growth‐regulating activity, and antimicrobial behavior of ionic compounds based on 2‐diethylamino‐N‐(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)acetamide (trimecaine). Synthesis of ionic compounds was performed via N‐alkylation of trimecaine with alkyl halides using microwave and ultrasound activation and the results were compared with those of classical conditions (thermal activation). The synthesized ionic compounds have been tested for germination energy and capacity with the collection of different varieties and hybrids of sweet sorghum seeds. The valuable results were obtained for the seeds stored for several years for which the significant drop in germination activity is usually observed. Furthermore, the ionic compounds were used to study their biological activity – growth –regulating activity on sweet sorghum seeds and the antimicrobial behavior against E. coli, S. typhimurium, B. subtilis, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans microorganisms.