bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation on the Behavior of κ ‐Carrageenan Hydrogels for Compressive Intra‐Vessel Disintegration
Authors: Wurm Florian , Pinggera Germar‐Michael , Pham Tung , Bechtold Thomas
Published: December 2020

Gel disintegration via compression is a possible approach for the reversal of the occlusion of male vasa deferentia (VD) by hydrogels. κ ‐carrageenan (KC) hydrogels can be used for such an application. To determine the required forces for in‐vessel compressive disintegration, a gel‐tube model, preparing KC gels in different tubes, is studied. These gels are of alternating biopolymer (1–3% by mass) and potassium (100–300 mM) concentration. Gel‐filled tubes are uniaxially compressed at two different compression speeds (1 and 0.3 mm s−1). Breakage compression strains are cross studied by shear breaking gel measurements using dynamic mechanical analysis. The measurements showed good agreement. Gel structure disintegration occurred below (62 ± 8) % strain. During compression, three stages of gel disintegration are present. Gel‐tube wall detachment, gel rupture, and gel expulsion. The force required for gel disintegration and tube deformation can be added arithmetically. From the modulus of a human aortae model, it is estimated that average human pinch forces are insufficient to disintegrate 2% and 3% by mass KC hydrogels in VD by massage. The compressive disintegration would require a compression device while evading tissue damage.
An Efficiently Reworkable Thermosetting Adhesive Based on Photoreversible [4+4] Cycloaddition Reaction of Epoxy‐Based Prepolymer with Four Anthracene End Groups
Authors: Liu Ziyu , Cheng Jue , Zhang Junying
Published: December 2020

The solid–liquid phase transition is always the key to the design and preparation of reworkable adhesives. However, an efficient photoinduced reworkable thermosetting adhesive at room temperature remains a challenge. Here, a photoinduced reworkable thermosetting adhesive of epoxy‐based prepolymer with four anthracene end groups are prepared. The highly active light‐induced [4+4] cycloaddition and depolymerization, as well as a large number anthracene groups endow this adhesive with high optical activity. Soft segments of polyether amines are used to adjust glass transition temperature of these cross‐linked networks which is significant for highly efficient solid–liquid phase transition of photoinduced reworkable adhesive at room temperature. As a reworkable adhesive, the obtained AER/D2000 exhibits desirable viscosity, lap shear strength up to 2.4 MPa for quartz glass substrate in the cross‐linked state, and ideal reworkable efficiency as high as 91.7%. Therefore, this research provides a strategy for a photoinduced reworkable adhesive, and as an alternative for heat‐induced reworkable adhesives.
Hyperbranched Bisphosphonate‐Functional Polymers via Self‐Condensing Vinyl Polymerization and Postpolymerization Multicomponent Reactions
Authors: Calvo Patricia R. , Sparks Chelsea A. , Hochberg Justin , Wagener Kenneth B. , Sumerlin Brent S.
Published: December 2020

The synthesis of hyperbranched aminobisphosphonic acid polymers via reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) self‐condensing vinyl polymerization is reported. A novel acrylamide‐functional chain transfer monomer is synthesized and characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and mass spectrometry. The monomer is subsequently copolymerized with an acrylamide monomer bearing a pendent amine group to create hyperbranched amine‐functional polymers with degrees of branching dictated by changing the reaction stoichiometry. The aminobisphosphonate functional group is introduced via a 3‐component Kabachnik‐Fields reaction. An alternate functionalization of the amine polymers to create acid‐degradable imine hydrogels is also employed. This work demonstrates the application of multicomponent reactions to RAFT‐derived hyperbranched polymers and provides a new route to previously inaccessible polymers.
Bio‐Inspired Silica Films Combining Block Copolymers Self‐Assembly and Soft Chemistry: Paving the Way toward Artificial Exosqueleton of Seawater Diatoms
Authors: Alvarez Sandra , Marcasuzaa Pierre , Billon Laurent
Published: December 2020

This review is in line with the principles of bio‐inspiration and biomimicry in order to envisage a softer and more environmentally friendly chemistry. Here, the source of inspiration is a microalga from the oceans with the ability to build an exoskeleton of silica under ambient conditions. Following this model, this review is interested in different ways of creating porous silica films with a hierarchical porosity similar to diatoms. For this purpose, polymeric/hybrid/inorganic films structured in honeycomb using the breath figure method are reported. This versatile and easy to implement method based on the principle of rapid evaporation of a solvent in a humid atmosphere is widely used in the formation of structured films with micron‐sized pores. In addition to this, the self‐assembly of copolymer at the nanoscale can be addressed to obtain a hierarchically structured film. Following this structuration step, the degradation of a sacrificial block is then described from the most energy‐intensive to soft process, allowing an added nanoporosity to the micron porosity of the BF method. Finally, hierarchical porous silica films are described using the sol–gel process, which is known as a soft chemistry process.
Expanding the PURA syndrome phenotype: A child with the recurrent PURA p.(Phe233del) pathogenic variant showing similarities with cutis laxa
Authors: Cinquina Valeria , Ciaccio Claudia , Venturini Marina , Masson Riccardo , Ritelli Marco , Colombi Marina
Published: December 2020

Background

PURA syndrome is rare autosomal dominant condition characterized by moderate to severe neurodevelopmental delay with absence of speech in nearly all patients and lack of independent ambulation in many. Early‐onset problems include excessive hiccups, hypotonia, hypersomnolence, hypothermia, feeding difficulties, recurrent apneas, epileptic seizures, and abnormal nonepileptic movements. Other less common manifestations comprise congenital heart defects, urogenital malformations, and various skeletal, ophthalmological, gastrointestinal, and endocrine anomalies. Up to now, 78 individuals with PURA syndrome and 64 different pathogenic variants have been reported, but no clear‐cut genotype‐phenotype correlations have emerged so far. Herein, we report the clinical and molecular characterization of a 3‐year‐old girl with severe hypotonia, global developmental delay, and soft, loose skin, who came to our attention with a suspicion of cutis laxa (CL), which denotes another condition with variable neurodevelopmental problems.

Methods

Amplicon‐based whole exome sequencing was performed, and an in‐house pipeline was used to conduct filtering and prioritization of variants. New prediction algorithms for indels were used to validate the pathogenicity of the PURA variant, and results were confirmed with the Sanger method. Finally, we collected clinical and mutational data of all PURA syndrome patients reported yet and compared the clinical features with those of our patient.

Results

Clinical evaluation and biochemical investigations excluded CL and prompted to perform whole exome sequencing, which confirmed the absence of pathogenic variants in all CL‐related genes and revealed the known PURA c.697_699del, p.(Phe233del) variant, identified hitherto in seven additional children with PURA syndrome.

Conclusions

Our data expand the phenotypic spectrum of PURA syndrome by showing that it can be regarded as a differential diagnosis for cutis laxa in early infancy. Our patient and literature review emphasize that a wide clinical variability exists not only between individuals with different PURA variants, but also among patients with the same causal mutation.
Numerical simulation of telegraph and Cattaneo fractional‐type models using adaptive reproducing kernel framework
Authors: Al‐Smadi Mohammed , Abu Arqub Omar , Gaith Mohamed
Published: December 2020

In this article, a class of generalized telegraph and Cattaneo time‐fractional models along with Robin's initial‐boundary conditions is considered using the adaptive reproducing kernel framework. Accordingly, a relatively novel numerical treatment is introduced to investigate and interpret approximate solutions to telegraph and Cattaneo models of time‐fractional derivatives in Caputo sense. This treatment optimized solutions relying on the Sobolev spaces and Schmidt orthogonalization process that can be directly implemented to generate Fourier expansion at a rapid convergence rate, in which the arbitrary kernel functions satisfy Robin's homogeneous conditions. Furthermore, the solution is displayed in a fractional series formula in complete Hilbert spaces without any restrictive hypothesis on the desired issues. The effectiveness, validity, and potentiality of the proposed procedure are demonstrated by testing some applications. The graphical consequences indicate that the method is superior, accurate, and convenient in solving such fractional models.
Stefan‐Boltzmann problem for heat transfer in a fin
Authors: Belinskiy Boris , Graef John , Kong Lingju
Published: December 2020

A fin serves as an extended surface to enhance the heat transfer from a larger heated mass to which it is attached. The authors consider a fin in the steady‐state at high temperatures and hence have to take radiation into consideration. Specifically, they use the Stefan‐Boltzmann law and consider a nonlinear heat equation. They prove that the solution of the boundary value problem exists and is unique. They also show that the temperature monotonically decays along the fin and they find lower and upper bounds for the temperature. The dependence and analyticity of the temperature with respect to the Stefan‐Boltzmann constant is also discussed.
Characterization and correction of center‐frequency effects in X‐nuclear eddy current compensations on a clinical MR system
Authors: McLean Mary A. , Hinks R. Scott , Kaggie Joshua D. , Woitek Ramona , Riemer Frank , Graves Martin J. , McIntyre Dominick J. O. , Gallagher Ferdia A. , Schulte Rolf F.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The aim of the study was to investigate whether incorrectly compensated eddy currents are the source of persistent X‐nuclear spectroscopy and imaging artifacts, as well as methods to correct this.

Methods

Pulse‐acquire spectra were collected for 1H and X‐nuclei (23Na or 31P) using the minimum TR permitted on a 3T clinical MRI system. Data were collected in 3 orientations (axial, sagittal, and coronal) with the spoiler gradient at the end of the TR applied along the slice direction for each. Modifications to system calibration files to tailor eddy current compensation for each X‐nucleus were developed and applied, and data were compared with and without these corrections for: slice‐selective MRS (for 23Na and 31P), 2D spiral trajectories (for 13C), and 3D cones trajectories (for 23Na).

Results

Line‐shape distortions characteristic of eddy currents were demonstrated for X‐nuclei, which were not seen for 1H. The severity of these correlated with the amplitude of the eddy current frequency compensation term applied by the system along the axis of the applied spoiler gradient. A proposed correction to eddy current compensation, taking account of the gyromagnetic ratio, was shown to dramatically reduce these distortions. The same correction was also shown to improve data quality of non‐Cartesian imaging (2D spiral and 3D cones trajectories).

Conclusion

A simple adaptation of the default compensation for eddy currents was shown to eliminate a range of artifacts detected on X‐nuclear spectroscopy and imaging.
On rigorous computational and numerical solutions for the voltages of the electrified transmission range with the day yet distance
Authors: Khater Mostafa M. A. , Hamed Y. S. , Lu Dianchen
Published: December 2020

This research article aims to get superabundant wave solutions of the fractional nonlinear space–time telegraph via two computational schemes (modified Khater (MK) method and simplest equation (SE) method) through a new fractional operator (Atangana–Baleanu [AB] fractional derivative). These solutions are used to calculate the boundary and initial conditions that allow applying the B‐spline collection schemes for constructing the numerical solutions and absolute value of error between obtained exact and numerical solutions. On the other hand, the second goal of this research is to investigate the accuracy of used computational schemes and their constructed solutions, where the investigated model is one of the most attractive models for studying in the electrified transmission or electromagnetic waves. This model, which is used to illustrate as the electromagnetic waves do keep mirrored about the wire, or that suspense patterns perform exhibit along the line, describes the cutting‐edge or voltage of an electrified transmission range with the day yet distance. Oliver Heaviside formulated this model in 1880.
A formally second‐order backward differentiation formula Sinc‐collocation method for the Volterra integro‐differential equation with a weakly singular kernel based on the double exponential transformation
Authors: Qiu Wenlin , Xu Da , Guo Jing
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a formally second‐order backward differentiation formula (BDF2) Sinc‐collocation method for solving the Volterra integro‐differential equation with a weakly singular kernel. In the time direction, the time derivative is discretized via the BDF2 and the second‐order convolution quadrature rule is used to approximate the Riemann–Liouville fractional integral term. Then a fully discrete scheme is established via the Sinc approximation based on the double exponential transformation in space. The convergence and stability analysis are derived by the energy method. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of proposed method and it can be found that our scheme is super‐exponentially convergent in space and order 1 + α convergent in time with 0 < α < 1, respectively. Meanwhile, the numerical results based on the single exponential transformation are compared with the proposed method to illustrate the high accuracy of our method.
Update on Guidelines for the Management of Cancer-Associated Thrombosis
Authors: Streiff Michael B. , Abutalib Syed Ali , Farge Dominique , Murphy Martina , Connors Jean M. , Piazza Gregory
Published: December 2020

Cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with cancer. Over the past 2 decades, enormous advances have been made in the management of CAT. The growing evidence base informing practice has led to the publication of a number of guidelines and guidance documents on the diagnosis and treatment of CAT. The goal of this review is to examine the latest versions of evidence-based guidelines, highlighting the differences and similarities in their methodology, their disease-specific content, and recommendations for management. Our analysis shows that for most clinical topics, the different guidelines provide roughly similar management advice. However, there are a number of important clinical topics in CAT that are not currently covered by the existing guidelines. We think inclusion of these topics in future versions of the guidelines will facilitate ongoing efforts to optimize the care of patients with CAT.

Implications for Practice

Cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) is a common complication in patients with cancer. This review examines the differences and similarities of the current CAT guidelines methods and recommendations. Current guidelines largely agree on many aspects of CAT management. However, there are a number of topics in CAT that are not currently included in guidelines where evidence-based guidance would be very helpful for clinicians. Coverage of these topics in future guidelines is encouraged to optimize clinical practice.
Lessons Learned During a Pandemic Year
Authors: Simpson Michael , Van Arsdel John
Published: December 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic has affected the water sector in many ways, shifting industry expectations, priorities, workflows, and more. But through it all, the mission of keeping drinking water safe and readily available remained a priority.
What Are the Top 10 Best Practices for Maintaining a Healthy Hydrant?
Authors: Nein Patrick , Bailey Alexander
Published: December 2020

Fire hydrants are critical infrastructure that need to function on a moment's notice. Water utilities are usually responsible for keeping hydrants in working order, thus it's crucial for utilities to ensure proper hydrant function using a testing and maintenance program.
Know the Basics of Water Fluoridation Measurement and Additive Products Safety
Authors: Duchon Kip
Published: December 2020

Adding fluoride to water is standard practice, but best practices for accurate measurement and safe handling of fluoride additives should be in place.
Innovative floating bifacial photovoltaic solutions for inland water areas
Authors: Ziar Hesan , Prudon Bjorn , Lin Fen‐Yu (Vicky) , Roeffen Bart , Heijkoop Dennis , Stark Tim , Teurlincx Sven , de Senerpont Domis Lisette , Goma Elias Garcia , Extebarria Julen Garro , Alavez Ignacio Narvaez , van Tilborg Daniel , van Laar Hein , Santbergen Rudi , Isabella Olindo
Published: December 2020

Photovoltaic (PV) technology has the potential to be integrated on many surfaces in various environments, even on water. Modeling, design, and realization of a floating PV system have more challenges than conventional rooftop or freestanding PV system. In this work, we introduce two innovative concepts for floating bifacial PV systems, describing their modeling, design, and performance monitoring. The developed concepts are retractable and enable maximum energy production through tracking the Sun. Various floating PV systems (monofacial, bifacial with and without reflectors) with different tilts and tracking capabilities are installed on a Dutch pond and are being monitored. Results of the thermal study showed that partially soaking the frame of PV modules into water does not bring a considerable additional yield (+0.17%) and revealed that floating PV modules experience higher temperature special variance compared with land‐based systems. Observations showed that the birds' presence has a severe effect on floating PV performance in the short term. Electrical yield investigation concluded that due to low albedo of inland water areas (~6.5%), bifacial PV systems must have reflectors. One‐year monitoring showed that a bifacial PV system with reflector and horizontal tracking delivers ~17.3% more specific yield (up to 29% in a clear‐sky month) compared with a monofacial PV system installed on land. Ecological monitoring showed no discernable impacts on the water quality in weekly samplings but did show significant impacts on the aquatic plant biomass and periods of low oxygen concentrations.
Registration of ‘UC Southwest Red’ heirloom‐like red and white mottled bean
Authors: Parker Travis , Palkovic Antonia , Brummer E. Charles , Gepts Paul
Published: December 2020

‘UC Southwest Red’ (Reg. no. CV‐334, PI 693472) is a line of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) descended from the cross ‘Zuni Gold’/UCD 9634. UC Southwest Red is intended to address the growing demand for heirloom‐type crop cultivars, which have high market value and a reputation for excellent aesthetic and culinary quality. This demand is strongest among smaller scale farmers seeking unique market opportunities. Many of these growers operate in the organic sector and have a particular interest in high‐yield, high‐market‐value N2–fixing legumes. Despite the demand for heirloom‐type cultivars, production of many of these, including the dry bean ‘Anasazi’, is hindered by poor agronomic qualities such as low yields and disease susceptibility. To this end, UC Southwest Red combines an heirloom‐like seed pattern similar to that of Anasazi with resistance to Bean common mosaic virus (BCMV) and yields 53% higher than those of the heirloom. Evaluations of flavor and cooked appearance demonstrate that it has comparable culinary quality to Anasazi. All on‐farm evaluations were conducted on certified organic ground. UC Southwest Red will help satisfy a growing consumer interest in heirloom‐like cultivars while maintaining the agronomic qualities demanded for efficient production.
Perception gaps that may explain the status of taro (Colocasia esculenta) as an “orphan crop”
Authors: Matthews Peter Joseph , Ghanem Michel Edmond
Published: December 2020

Societal Impact Statement

Using Taro (Colocasia esculenta) as a case study, we examine how perception gaps contribute to negative feedback loops that create or maintain the orphan status of certain crops. For students and researchers seeking uncrowded areas for study, orphan crops and crop‐wild‐relatives offer large open spaces, figuratively and literally. Learning how to see what has not been seen may in turn help us to reduce our global dependence on very few crops, and the risks that follow from this. The combination of climate change and variability and increasing population has painted a dark picture of future food security for many regions in the world where resources are scarce. The key to future food and nutrition security may very well lie in unlocking the untapped potential of orphan and overlooked crops.

The present distribution of taro (Colocasia esculenta), as a cultivated food plant, extends from southern to northern Africa, western Asia to eastern Asia, throughout Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, and through the Americas, from the USA to Brazil. Despite its vast geographical range, high nutritional value, and considerable trade as a fresh and processed crop, there has been relatively little interest in taro and its wild relatives among research funding agencies, and little effective or large‐scale assessment of production, trade and usage. Given the proven ability of this crop to grow under diverse climatic regimes, from the equatorial tropics to northern and southern temperate zones it may be useful to consider perception gaps that contribute to disregard of the crop. Here we suggest and discuss a range of perception gaps that together may explain the status of taro as an orphan crop. Perception gaps exist because of many factors: dogma, linguistic diversity, social biases, under‐research, limited physical visibility of living wild populations, poor archaeological visibility, missing production numbers and inaccurate distribution maps. These contributing factors are shared, to lesser or greater extent, by many other orphan crops, but the disjunction between actual utilization (significant) and research effort (minimal) may be greater for taro than for most other “orphans”.
Lifecycle of the invasive omnivore, Forficula auricularia, in Australian grain growing environments
Authors: Binns Matthew , Hoffmann Ary A , van Helden Maarten , Heddle Thomas , Hill Matthew P , Macfadyen Sarina , Nash Michael A , Umina Paul A
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

The European earwig, Forficula auricularia (L.) (Dermaptera: Forficulidae), is regarded as an important beneficial in many orchard environments but has the potential to be a plant pest in other systems, including to grain crops. Due to its agricultural importance, the lifecycle of F. auricularia has been widely studied in North America and Europe. However, much less is known in the southern hemisphere, including Australia where F. auricularia has been present for over 170 years.

RESULTS

To elucidate the lifecycle of F. auricularia, we monitored five sites in grain‐growing areas of southern Australia using two different trap types. Adults were found year‐round, but most prevalent from late‐spring to mid‐winter. First instars were typically found from mid to late winter. Second, third and fourth instars occurred from winter through to late spring. The seasonal development of F. auricularia in Australia may be much earlier than observed in comparable North American studies. Degree day modelling highlights variation in development times across the active season for F. auricularia across our sites.

CONCLUSION

Forficula auricularia is well adapted to the Australian grain growing environments. The timing of egg hatching aligns closely with crop emergence, juveniles then develop alongside the crop, and adult development occurs by harvest time in late spring. These findings are important given that many of these crops (canola, lucerne, pulses) are vulnerable to attack by F. auricularia during emergence and development. They also suggest a phenotypic capacity of this species to adapt different phenology after introduction into a novel environment. © 2020 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Cardiovascular risks in patients receiving antidepressants
Authors: Lam Y. W. Francis
Published: December 2020

Patients with ischemic heart disease often have comorbid depression that is treated with antidepressants. Previous studies have suggested an association between antidepressant use and adverse cardiac outcomes. In addition, depression itself has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular events.
Simultaneous exhibition of positive and negative cooperativity by purelyCH⋯OH‐bonded (1,3‐cyclohexanedione)n(n= 2–6) clusters: A density functional theoretical investigation
Authors: Monu  , Oram Binod Kumar , Bandyopadhyay Biman
Published: December 2020

Investigation of cooperative effect exhibited by purely CH⋯O hydrogen bonded (H‐bonded) networks in linear and cyclic clusters of 1,3‐cyclohexanedione (up to hexamer) has been carried out using density functional theoretical calculations. Linear clusters were found to show anti‐cooperative behavior, while the cyclic clusters showed positive cooperativity. In all the studied clusters, the carbonyl groups were found to form bifurcated H‐bonds with two or three CH groups. The extent of cooperativity has been found to show monotonic behavior for both linear and cyclic clusters, both in terms of H‐bond strength and binding energies. Natural bond orbital analysis and atoms in molecule calculations were found to corroborate the obtained results.
Concise and Scalable Total Syntheses of Lamellarin Z and other Natural Lamellarins
Authors: Kumar Virendra , Salam Abdus , Kumar Dileep , Khan Tabrez
Published: December 2020

An efficient construction of the central 1,2,4‐trisubstituted pyrrole core via one‐pot [3+2] cycloaddition/elimination/aromatization sequence‐based domino process and subsequent Pd‐mediated cross dehydrogenative coupling between the C−H bonds of pyrrole and the peripheral aryl rings enables rapid access to the pentacyclic coumarin‐pyrrole‐isoquinoline scaffolds which were smoothly elaborated to the targeted lamellarins alkaloids. The total synthesis of lamellarins Z and S with the highest overall yield reported till date, besides the synthesis of several other natural lamellarins have been realized in 5–6 steps with overall yields ranging from 20–27 %.
Field programmable gate array‐based all‐layer accelerator with quantization neural networks for sustainable cyber‐physical systems
Authors: Zhan Jinyu , Zhou Xingzhi , Jiang Wei
Published: December 2020

Low‐Bit Neural Network (LBNN) is a promising technique to enrich intelligent applications running on sustainable Cyber‐Physical Systems (CPS). Although LBNN has the advantages of low memory usage, fast inference and low power consumption, Low‐bit design requires additional computation units and may cause large accuracy drop. In this paper, we approach to design Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)‐based LBNN accelerator to support sustainable CPS. First, we propose a method to quantize the neural networks into 2‐bit weights, 8‐bit activations and 8‐bit biases with few accuracy loss. The mapping function is presented to approximate discrete space of weights gradually and quantize the activations and biases through the improved straight‐through estimator. Second, we design the bitwise FPGA‐based accelerator to speed up the LBNN. Different from traditional accelerating techniques (mainly focused on convolution layer), the dataflows of fully connected layer, pooling layer and convolution layer are considered to accelerate all layers of neural networks. The 2×8 bitwise multiplier implemented by AND/XOR operation is devised to replace 32×32‐bit multiplication unit, which can bring faster inference and lower power consumption. We conduct extensive experiments on benchmarks of MNIST, CIFAR‐10, CIFAR‐100 and ImageNet to evaluate the efficiency of our approach. The LBNN obtained by our quantization method can save 93.75% memory with 2.26% accuracy loss on average compared with original networks. The FPGA‐based accelerator achieves a peak performance of 427.71 GOPS under 100 MHz working frequency, which outperforms previous approaches significantly.
Quantitative analysis of energy conservation, economic benefits, and environmental safety of base transceiver station co‐location: Osogbo, Osun state, Nigeria as case study
Authors: Lasisi Hammed Oyebamiji , Aderinkola Bolatito Fatimah
Published: December 2020

The ever‐increasing demand for mobile services puts mobile operators under pressure to invest heavily in infrastructure to expand coverage and capacity so as to serve customers. A smart way to ensuring effective signal transmission at optimized unit cost per infrastructure is the co‐location scheme. However, effective signal transmission requires an integrated network of base transceiver station (BTS) to provide adequate radio coverage to mobile stations. However, telecommunication operators share infrastructure by mounting base station antennas on selective common sites, a scheme called sites co‐location. This paper quantitatively examined the economic advantage of the BTS co‐location scheme over the standalone system in terms of energy conservation, environmental preservation, and cost per BTS reduction via facility optimization. A survey study, measurement, and evaluation were conducted around the study area to measure and evaluate the benefits of BTS co‐location over the standalone system in terms of energy conservation, environmental safety, and economic benefits. Results revealed that about 50% of power was conserved through co‐location; the average emission per BTS in the co‐located scheme is far below than is obtainable in the standalone system, and the average cost per BTS is significantly optimized as unnecessary duplication of some site facilities is eliminated. It is thus concluded that co‐location scheme conserves energy, saves costs, and serves as a means of avoiding unnecessary duplication of infrastructure and proliferation of BTS. This work, therefore, recommends implementation of BTS co‐location anywhere it is feasible.
Verhaltensbedingte dentale und orale Befunde bei Menschen mit Autismus-Spektrum-Störung – eine ausgewählte Übersicht
Authors: Schmidt P. , Schulte A. G. , Fricke O.
Published: December 2020

Hintergrund

Charakteristisch für Menschen mit einer Störung aus dem Autismusspektrum (ASS) sind qualitative und quantitative Störungen der Kommunikation und sozialen Interaktion, stereotypes Verhalten und ggf. auch Sonderinteressen.

Ziel der Arbeit

Der vorliegende Artikel blickt auf unterschiedliche ASS-assoziierte Verhaltensmuster und deren Auswirkungen, die sich im Mundraum oder an den Zähnen darstellen.

Ergebnis

Im klinischen Alltag wird vermehrt ein Zusammenhang zum Mundraum festgestellt. Konkret sind Aspekte der einseitigen Ernährungsgewohnheiten, der Selbststimulation oder Selbstverletzung zu nennen, die einen Einfluss auf die Entstehung oraler und dentaler Erkrankungen wie Karies, Gingivitis haben können.

Diskussion

Mittel- und langfristig können sich abnorme, repetitive Verhaltensweisen in dentalen oder oralen Erkrankungen manifestieren. Der dadurch verursachte Krankheitswert kann letztlich die Lebensqualität der Person und des sozialen Umfelds negativ beeinflussen.

Schlussfolgerung

Folglich ist es wichtig zu wissen, dass eine orale Beteiligung einer individuellen Verhaltensauffälligkeit bei einem Menschen mit einer ASS häufig gegeben ist. Im klinischen Alltag der Kinder- und Jugendmedizin ist dieses Wissen für Diagnose und Therapie, aber auch für die interdisziplinäre Zusammenarbeit mit dem (Kinder‑)Zahnarzt hilfreich.
Quality of life and sexual function after TVT surgery versus Bulkamid injection for primary stress urinary incontinence: 1 year results from a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Itkonen Freitas Anna-Maija , Mikkola Tomi S. , Rahkola-Soisalo Päivi , Tulokas Sari , Mentula Maarit
Published: December 2020

Introduction and hypothesis

To assess changes in quality of life (QoL) and sexual function outcomes at 1 year after tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) versus polyacrylamide hydrogel injection (PAHG).

Methods

In a randomized trial comparing TVT (n = 111) and PAHG (n = 113) treatments of stress urinary incontinence (SUI), we compared urinary incontinence and health-related QoL using the Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6), Incontinence Impact Questionnaire, Short Form (IIQ-7), Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12) and RAND-36 Item Health Survey (RAND-36) at baseline and 1 year.

Results

UDI-6 and IIQ-7 showed improved incontinence-related QoL (p = 0.001) from baseline in both groups except for difficulty emptying the bladder and pain/discomfort. At 1 year, TVT patients experienced less urinary symptom-related distress compared to PAHG (p < 0.001). Sexual function improved in both groups (p < 0.001 for TVT and p = 0.01 for PAHG) with higher scores for the physical section subscale (p < 0.001) for TVT. Health-related QoL (RAND-36) improved from baseline in both groups in physical and social functioning (p < 0.001) with better outcome in the TVT group for physical functioning (p < 0.001). Increase in pain from baseline (p = 0.02) was detected for TVT, but not for PAHG. However, there was no difference between the groups (p = 0.78).

Conclusions

In primary SUI, TVT and PAHG treatments both improved QoL and sexual function at 1 year. However, incontinence and health-related QoL scores were better in the TVT group. More pain compared to the baseline was reported after TVT, although there was no difference between groups. Clinical significance needs to be evaluated in long-term follow-up.
Mapping cold-water coral biomass: an approach to derive ecosystem functions
Authors: De Clippele L. H. , Rovelli L. , Ramiro-Sánchez B. , Kazanidis G. , Vad J. , Turner S. , Glud R. N. , Roberts J. M.
Published: December 2020

This study presents a novel approach resulting in the first cold-water coral reef biomass maps, used to assess associated ecosystem functions, such as carbon (C) stock and turnover. We focussed on two dominant ecosystem engineers at the Mingulay Reef Complex, the coral Lophelia pertusa (rubble, live and dead framework) and the sponge Spongosorites coralliophaga. Firstly, from combining biological (high-definition video, collected specimens), environmental (extracted from multibeam bathymetry) and ecosystem function (oxygen consumption rate values) data, we calculated biomass, C stock and turnover which can feed into assessments of C budgets. Secondly, using those values, we employed random forest modelling to predictively map whole-reef live coral and sponge biomass. The whole-reef mean biomass of S. coralliophaga was estimated to be 304 T (range 168–440 T biomass), containing 10 T C (range 5–18 T C) stock. The mean skeletal mass of the coral colonies (live and dead framework) was estimated to be 3874 T (range 507–9352 T skeletal mass), containing a mean of 209 T of biomass (range 26–515 T biomass) and a mean of 465 T C (range 60–1122 T C) stock. These estimates were used to calculate the C turnover rates, using respiration data available in the literature. These calculations revealed that the epi- and microbial fauna associated with coral rubble were the largest contributor towards C turnover in the area with a mean of 163 T C year−1 (range 149–176 T C year−1). The live and dead framework of L. pertusa were estimated to overturn a mean of 32 T C year−1 (range 4–93 T C year−1) and 44 T C year−1 (range 6–139 T C year−1), respectively. Our calculations showed that the Mingulay Reef overturned three to seven (with a mean of four) times more C than a soft-sediment area at a similar depth. As proof of concept, the supply of C needed from surface water primary productivity to the reef was inferred. Since 65–124 T C year−1 is supplied by natural deposition and our study suggested that a mean of 241 T C year−1 (range 160–400 T C year−1), was turned over by the reef, a mean of 117–176 T C year−1 (range 36–335 T C year−1) of the reef would therefore be supplied by tidal downwelling and/or deep-water advection. Our results indicate that monitoring and/or managing surface primary productivity would be a key consideration for any efforts towards the conservation of cold-water coral reef ecosystems.
Fatigue and brain arousal in patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Surova Galina , Ulke Christine , Schmidt Frank Martin , Hensch Tilman , Sander Christian , Hegerl Ulrich
Published: December 2020

Fatigue is considered a key symptom of major depressive disorder (MDD), yet the term lacks specificity. It can denote a state of increased sleepiness and lack of drive (i.e., downregulated arousal) as well as a state of high inner tension and inhibition of drive with long sleep onset latencies (i.e., upregulated arousal), the latter typically found in depression. It has been proposed to differentiate fatigue along the dimension of brain arousal. We investigated whether such stratification within a group of MDD patients would reveal a subgroup with distinct clinical features. Using an automatic classification of EEG vigilance stages, an arousal stability score was calculated for 15-min resting EEGs of 102 MDD patients with fatigue. 23.5% of the patients showed signs of hypoarousal with EEG patterns indicating drowsiness or sleep; this hypoaroused subgroup was compared with remaining patients (non-hypoaroused subgroup) concerning self-rated measures of depressive symptoms, sleepiness, and sleep. The hypoaroused subgroup scored higher on the Beck Depression Inventory items “loss of energy” (Z = − 2.13, p = 0.033; ɳ2 = 0.044, 90% CI 0.003–0.128) and “concentration difficulty” (Z = − 2.40, p = 0.017; ɳ2 = 0.056, 90% CI 0.009–0.139), and reported higher trait and state sleepiness (p < 0.05) as compared to the non-hypoaroused group. The non-hypoaroused subgroup, in contrast, reported more frequently the presence of suicidal ideation (Chi2 = 3.81, p = 0.051; ɳ2 = 0.037, 90% CI 0.0008–0.126). In this study, we found some evidence that stratifying fatigued MDD patients by arousal may lead to subgroups that are pathophysiologically and clinically more homogeneous. Brain arousal may be a worth while target in clinical research for better understanding the mechanisms underlying suicidal tendencies and to improve treatment response.
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate in male adolescents and subsequent risk of Parkinson’s disease: an observational study
Authors: Fardell Camilla , Schiöler Linus , Nissbrandt Hans , Torén Kjell , Åberg Maria
Published: December 2020

Systemic inflammation may be implicated in the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Since PD occurs usually in later life, most studies of causal factors are conducted in older populations, so potentially important influences from early life cannot be adequately captured. We investigated whether the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) in early adulthood is associated with the subsequent development of PD in men. As part of Swedish national conscription testing conducted from 1968 through 1983 (N = 716,550), the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, as a measure of inflammation, was measured in 659,278 young men. The cohort was observed for subsequent PD events (N = 1513) through December 2016. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HR) with 95% CI with adjustment for potential confounders. Individuals with higher ESRs were significantly less likely to be diagnosed with PD, as ESR was linearly and inversely associated with PD risk. The magnitude of the association between ESR and PD risk was similar for increases up to 15 mm/h, leveled off thereafter, and was non-significant for ESR values > 20 mm/h. The HR for PD with basic adjustments (age at conscription, year of conscription, test center and erythrocyte volume fraction) was 0.94 (95% CI 0.89–0.99, P = 0.02) per log2 increase in ESR, corresponding to a two-fold increase in ESR. Further adjustments for potential confounders (parental education, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and IQ) scarcely altered the HR. The results suggest a prospective association between high ESR and reduced risk for PD.
Forest gardens increase the financial viability of farming enterprises in Sri Lanka
Authors: Melvani Kamal , Myers Bronwyn , Palaniandavan Natarajan , Kaestli Mirjam , Bristow Mila , Crase Beth , Moles Jerry , Williams Richard , Abeygunawardena Piyasena
Published: December 2020

Forest gardens (FGs) are tree-dominant land uses in Sri Lankan farming enterprises. Although FG financial performance has been described, their overall contributions to farming enterprises remain unclear. This information is critical given the global quest for financially viable, sustainable agricultural models. Farming enterprises include On-farm (land uses: FGs, paddy, cash crops, plantations, swidden/chenaplots, livestock), Off-farm (employment, trading, grants, welfare) and household components. Forest garden financial performance was compared with other enterprise components in short-(reference year, 2012–2013) and long-terms (beyond 2013). Financial data were collected for 85 farming enterprises in nine locations of the Intermediate zone using Household Income and Expenditure surveys and quantified using accounting procedures. In the short-term, 49% of On-farm income was the value of household consumption while 54% of On-farm expense the value of household contributions. FGs contributed 29% to food and fuelwood self-sufficiency, generated the highest profit, were the most financially efficient land use, and average FG profit (Current assets) was greater than enterprise profit. In the long-term, FGs had the highest number of timber and fuelwood species (biological assets). Their average net realisable value (NRV) was 90% of total NRV for biological assets from all land uses. Since FGs occupied 68% of the study area, their substantial biological and land assets had high Non-Current asset values. Average FG Non-Current asset values accounted for 79% of Total Equity and were farmers' core ownership interest in enterprises. Forest gardens increase the financial viability of farming enterprises. Their financial contributions warrant recognition in national economic performance assessments.
Hidden invasion and niche contraction revealed by herbaria specimens in the fungal complex causing oak powdery mildew in Europe
Authors: Gross Andrin , Petitcollin Célia , Dutech Cyril , Ly Bayo , Massot Marie , Faivre d’Arcier Julie , Dubois Laure , Saint-Jean Gilles , Desprez-Loustau Marie-Laure
Published: December 2020

Deciphering the dynamics involved in past microbial invasions has proven difficult due to the inconspicuous nature of microbes and their still poorly known diversity and biogeography. Here we focus on powdery mildew, a common disease of oaks which emerged in Europe at the beginning of the twentieth century and for which three closely related Erysiphe species are mainly involved. The study of herbaria samples combined with an experimental approach of interactions between Erysiphe species led us to revisit the history of this multiple invasion. Contrary to what was previously thought, herbaria sample analyses very strongly suggested that the currently dominant species, E. alphitoides, was not the species which caused the first outbreaks and was described as a new species at that time. Instead, E. quercicola was shown to be present since the early dates of disease reports and to be widespread all over Europe in the beginning of the twentieth century. E. alphitoides spread and became progressively dominant during the second half of the twentieth century while E. quercicola was constrained to the southern part of its initial range, corresponding to its current distribution. A competition experiment provided a potential explanation of this over-invasion by demonstrating that E. alphitoides had a slight advantage over E. quercicola by its ability to infect leaves during a longer period during shoot development. Our study is exemplary of invasions with complexes of functionally similar species, emphasizing that subtle differences in the biology of the species, rather than strong competitive effects may explain patterns of over-invasion and niche contraction.
SGLT2-inhibitors; more than just glycosuria and diuresis
Authors: Fathi Amir , Vickneson Keeran , Singh Jagdeep S.
Published: December 2020

Heart failure (HF) continues to be a serious public health challenge despite significant advancements in therapeutics and is often complicated by multiple other comorbidities. Of particular concern is type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) which not only amplifies the risk, but also limits the treatment options available to patients. The sodium-glucose linked cotransporter subtype 2 (SGLT2)-inhibitor class, which was initially developed as a treatment for T2DM, has shown great promise in reducing cardiovascular risk, particularly around HF outcomes – regardless of diabetes status.

There are ongoing efforts to elucidate the true mechanism of action of this novel drug class. Its primary mechanism of inducing glycosuria and diuresis from receptor blockade in the renal nephron seems unlikely to be responsible for the rapid and striking benefits seen in clinical trials. Early mechanistic work around conventional therapeutic targets seem to be inconclusive. There are some emerging theories around its effect on myocardial energetics and calcium balance as well as on renal physiology. In this review, we discuss some of the cutting-edge hypotheses and concepts currently being explored around this drug class in an attempt better understand the molecular mechanics of this novel agent.