bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An experimental study of the dynamic molecular state of transient moisture in damaged polymer composites
Authors: Idolor Ogheneovo , Guha Rishabh Debraj , Berkowitz Katherine , Grace Landon
Published: April 2021

Polymeric composites absorb measurable amounts of moisture from their environment in almost all operating conditions. This absorbed moisture exists either in the “free” state, without any interactions, or in the “bound” state—interacting with the polymer matrix via secondary bonding mechanisms. The ratio and distribution of these water states within a moisture‐contaminated polymer composite are sensitive to physical damage. However, the water state distribution is also affected by variations in total water content resulting from humidity or precipitation‐driven fluctuations in the ambient environment, which could confound the ability to detect damage within the polymer matrix using this technique. To understand the effect of moisture content variations on water state distribution, low levels of barely visible impact damage were induced in epoxy/glass fiber composites. Spatial variations in polymer–water interactions were identified by their characteristic dielectric properties, measured using a split post dielectric resonator operating at 5 GHz. Gravimetric moisture uptake and relative permittivity were monitored during the absorption and desorption processes. Results indicate moisture absorption/desorption history has a significant effect on the sensitivity of damage detection using water state variations. Damage‐dependent hysteresis was observed in relative permittivity, highlighting an avenue by which the confounding effects of moisture absorption/desorption history may be mitigated.
Achievement of goal anti‐Xa activity with weight‐based enoxaparin dosing for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in trauma patients
Authors: Taylor Ashley , Huang Ellen , Waller Jennifer , White Cassandra , Martinez‐Quinones Patricia , Robinson Tim
Published: April 2021

Study Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of routine anti‐Xa peak monitoring for trauma patients initiated on weight‐based enoxaparin for venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis and identify patient populations where monitoring is necessary.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

Augusta University (AU) Medical Center in Augusta, Georgia, a level 1 trauma center.

Patients

Adult patients admitted to the trauma surgery service requiring chemical VTE prophylaxis.

Intervention

At least three consecutive doses of enoxaparin 0.5 mg/kg subcutaneously every 12 hour for VTE prophylaxis prior to an anti‐Xa peak as the initial chemical VTE prophylaxis strategy.

Measurements

The primary end point was the percentage of patients who achieved goal anti‐Xa peak of 0.2–0.6 unit/ml. The incidence of newly diagnosed VTE and clinically significant bleeding were assessed as secondary end points.

Main Results

From January 1, 2018, through February 28, 2019, 300 patients met inclusion criteria. Anti‐Xa peaks were within goal in 91% of all patients, 7.7% were below goal, and 1.3% were above goal. For patients who did not meet the goal, dose adjustments were made in 70.4% of patients. New levels were obtained in 73.7% of those patients, and all repeat levels was within goal. Clinically significant bleeding occurred in 5.3% of patients. Newly diagnosed VTE occurred in 1.7% of patients.

Conclusions

The use of initial weight‐based enoxaparin dosing in trauma patients routinely achieved the prespecified target anti‐Xa goal. In conclusion, anti‐Xa levels are not necessary for routine monitoring of weight‐based enoxaparin for VTE prophylaxis in trauma patients. Incidence of clinically significant bleeding and newly diagnosed VTE were similar to previous studies.
Adapting an empirical clinic‐based organizational skills training program for use in schools: Iterative development and pilot assessment
Authors: Di Bartolo Christina A. , Abikoff Howard , McDonald Margaret , Gallagher Richard
Published: April 2021

Effective organizational skills (e.g., time management, materials management, and task planning) are associated with academic success, yet some children struggle to gain these skills without intervention. While evidence‐based organizational skills interventions for pediatric clinical populations exist, none target organizationally impaired general populations in a primary school setting. In Organizational Skills Training‐School (OST‐S), school professionals teach small groups of 4th–5th grade organizationally impaired elementary school students skills associated with tracking assignments, managing materials, time management, and planning. This open pilot study of 33 students examined: a. the feasibility of adapting and implementing an established clinic‐based, individualized treatment (OST‐C) to a group format in a school setting, b. the program's acceptability among children, parents, and school partners, and c. whether participating children improved in the same functional areas that OST‐C positively influenced. Results indicated that we could adapt the intervention, school partners could implement it, and participants could accept it. Pre‐post improvements in organizational skills (as rated by parents, teachers, and children), homework problems, and academic performance demonstrated the potential effectiveness of OST‐S, suggesting the need for further efficacy work.
Understanding the crystallization process of a diketopyrrolopyrrole‐based conjugated polymer in blend films
Authors: Cao Xinxiu , Hu Yibo , Wang Ruiyuan , Lu Yi , Ou Baoli , Liao Bo , Fan Hui , Guo Yan , Liu Qingquan
Published: April 2021

The film morphology of fullerene and diketopyrrolopyrrole‐based conjugated polymers (PDPPs) blends largely influences the device performance in organic solar cells. It is critical to control the morphology of blend films, which usually requires investigations of the crystallization of PDPP‐based thin films. Here, we study the influence of marginal solvent additive 1,2‐dichlorobenzene (ODCB) and non‐solvent additive 1,8‐diiodooctane (DIO) on the crystallization of poly[2,5‐bis(2‐octyldodecyl)pyrrolo‐[3,4‐c]pyrrole‐1,4(2H,5H)‐dione‐alt‐2,2′: 5′,2″: 5″,2″′‐quaterthiophene] (PDQT). The blends formed fibril structures in thin films, as revealed by transmission electron microscopy. The fibril density increased and the width decreased with the ODCB amount. The critical ODCB content to achieve constant fibril width is almost proportional to the concentration of PDQT. Higher ODCB content also results in higher fibril density in pure PDQT films. In contrast, the amount of DIO has a negligible influence on the fibril width and density of thin films. Moreover, novel dendritic fibrils were formed in PDQT films upon addition of ODCB. A model based on nucleation and growth is proposed to explain these findings. The heterogeneous nucleation was dominant with the presence of ODCB, while the homogeneous nucleation was prevailing when DIO was used. The results show that initial nucleation density and growth direction are key factors determining the fibril width.
Prognostic awareness in advanced cancer patients and their caregivers: A longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Loučka Martin , Vlčková Karolína , Tučková Anna , Poláková Kristýna , Houska Adam , Matějů Martin , Donátová Zuzana
Published: April 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to analyse longitudinal development of prognostic awareness in advanced cancer patients and their families.

Methods

This was a longitudinal cohort study, involving 134 adult cancer patients, 91 primary family caregivers and 21 treating oncologists. Key eligibility criterion for patients was life expectancy less than 1 year (estimated by their oncologists using the 12‐month surprised question). Structured interviews, including tools to measure prognostic awareness, health information needs, and demographics were conducted face to face or via phone three times over 9 months. Forty‐four patients completed all three phases of data collection.

Results

Only 16% of patients reported accurate prognostic awareness, 58% being partially aware. Prognostic awareness of both patients and family caregivers remained stable over the course of the study, with only small non‐significant changes. Gender, education, type of cancer, spirituality or health information needs were not associated with the level of prognostic awareness. Family caregivers reported more accurate prognostic awareness, which was not associated with patients' own prognostic awareness (agreement rate 59%, weighted kappa 0.348, CI = 0.185–0.510).

Conclusions

Prognostic awareness appears to be a stable concept over the course of the illness. Clinicians must focus on the initial patients' understanding of the disease and be able to communicate the prognostic information effectively from the early stages of patients' trajectory.
Psychometric evaluation of the brief RCOPE and relationships with psychological functioning among caregivers of children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: McGrady Meghan E. , Mara Constance A. , Geiger‐Behm Karen , Ragsdale Judith , Davies Stella M. , Schwartz Lisa A. , Phipps Sean , Pai Ahna L. H.
Published: April 2021

Objective

Spiritual and religious (S/R) coping is a relevant yet understudied domain of coping among caregivers of children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT). The aims of this manuscript are to: (1) conduct the first psychometric evaluation of the Brief RCOPE in this population; (2) examine levels of and changes in S/R coping over time; and (3) explore the relationship between S/R coping trajectories and psychological functioning post‐HCT.

Methods

Caregivers (n = 170) of children (ages ≤12 years, n = 170) undergoing HCT completed the Brief RCOPE and the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) pre‐ and at multiple time points post‐HCT discharge. Factor structure, internal consistency, and validity were examined. Growth mixture models were used to identify subgroups with similar S/R coping trajectories, with group memberships added to mixture models to explore relationships between group membership and caregiver psychological functioning trajectories.

Results

The Brief RCOPE exhibited the previously‐supported two factor structure and each subscale demonstrated strong internal consistency (α = 0.85 and 0.92). Validity was supported by significant correlations with BSI scores. There were distinct subgroups of caregivers with different patterns of positive (n = 4 subgroups) and negative (n = 3 subgroups) S/R coping, with negative coping subgroup membership predicting changes in psychological functioning.

Conclusions

The Brief RCOPE is a promising measure for assessing S/R coping among caregivers of children undergoing HCT and has the potential to identify caregivers at risk for poorer long‐term psychological functioning.
Facile Synthesis of Manganese Tellurite Nanoparticles for Magnetic Resonance Imaging‐Guided Photothermal Therapy
Authors: He Yu , Guo Yating , Yu Yanbin , Luo Peifu , Qiu Honglong , Huang Guoming
Published: April 2021

In this study, manganese tellurite (MnTeO3) nanoparticles are developed as theranostic agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐guided photothermal therapy of tumor. MnTeO3 nanoparticles are synthesized via a simple one‐step method. The as‐synthesized MnTeO3 nanoparticles with uniform size show good biocompatibility. In particular, MnTeO3 nanoparticles exhibit a high photothermal conversion efficiency (η = 26.3%), which is higher than that of gold nanorods. Moreover, MnTeO3 nanoparticles also have high MRI performance. The longitudinal relaxivity (r1) value of MnTeO3 nanoparticles is determined to be 8.08 ± 0.2 mm−1 s−1, which is higher than that of clinically approved T1‐contrast agents Gd‐DTPA (4.49 ± 0.1 mm−1 s−1). The subsequent MnTeO3 nanoparticles‐mediated photothermal therapy displays a highly efficient ablation of tumor cells both in vitro and in vivo with negligible toxicity. It is demonstrated that MnTeO3 nanoparticles can serve as promising theranostic agents with great potentials for MRI‐guided photothermal therapy.
Plasma proteomics analysis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients revealed by Quadrupole‐Orbitrap mass spectrometry
Authors: Wang Qi , Wang Chi , Liu Jiayu , Sun Jingru , Wang Chengbin , Zhang Xuesong
Published: April 2021

Objective

We aim to investigate the changes of plasma proteome among mild, severe adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients and healthy controls.

Methods

In this retrospective study, there were 84 individuals including 56 confirmed AIS patients (27 follow‐up AIS patients and 29 surgical AIS patients) and another 28 healthy teenagers. Plasma samples were obtained and Quadrupole‐Orbitrap Mass Spectrometer was performed to identify proteins in AIS patients and control group. T‐test and ANOVA were performed to screen for differential proteins. GO and KEGG pathway, Pearson's correlation analysis and PLS model were applied to identify enriched proteins, investigate correlation between proteins and Cobb angles. ELISA was performed to further verify the quantitative proteomics results.

Results

A total of 349 proteins were identified, among which 55 protein levels changed significantly in AIS group, compared with control group. Post hoc test indicated 36 proteins were significantly different between surgical and control group, 35 proteins between follow‐up and control group. Fibronectin, fibrinogen and calmodulin were statistically different among three groups through mass spectrometry and were positively correlated with the Cobb angle.

Conclusions

We performed the proteomic study and revealed that fibronectin, fibrinogen and calmodulin might not only be considered as biomarkers for AIS but could be correlated with curve severity.
Exploratory assessment of pineal gland volume, composition, and urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin levels on prostate cancer risk
Authors: Bazzi Latifa A. , Sigurdardottir Lara G. , Sigurdsson Sigurdur , Valdimarsdottir Unnur , Torfadottir Johanna , Aspelund Thor , Czeisler Charles A. , Lockley Steven W. , Jonsson Eirikur , Launer Lenore , Harris Tamara , Gudnason Vilmundur , Mucci Lorelei A. , Markt Sarah C.
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Melatonin levels are partially driven by the parenchyma volume of the pineal gland. Low urinary levels of 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin have been associated with increased risk of advanced prostate cancer, but the relationship between pineal gland volume and composition and prostate cancer risk has not been examined.

Materials and Methods

We utilized data from 864 men from the AGES‐Reykjavik Study with complete pineal gland volumes and urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin measurements. Pineal parenchyma, calcification, and cyst volumes were calculated from brain magnetic resonance imaging. Levels of 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin were assayed from prediagnostic urine samples. We calculated Pearson correlation coefficients between parenchyma volume and urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin levels. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to calculate multivariable hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) comparing prostate cancer risk across parenchyma volume tertiles and across categories factoring in parenchyma volume, gland composition, and urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin level.

Results

Parenchyma volume was moderately correlated with urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin level (r = .24; p < .01). There was no statistically significant association between parenchyma volume tertile and prostate cancer risk. Men with high parenchyma volume, pineal cysts and calcifications, and low urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin levels had almost twice the risk of total prostate cancer as men with low parenchyma volume, no pineal calcifications or cysts, and low urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin levels (HR: 1.98; 95% CI: 1.02, 3.84; p: .04).

Conclusions

Although parenchyma volume is not associated with prostate cancer risk, pineal gland composition and other circadian dynamics may influence risk for prostate cancer. Additional studies are needed to examine the interplay of pineal gland volume, composition, and melatonin levels on prostate cancer risk.
M2a macrophage can rescue proliferation and gene expression of benign prostate hyperplasia epithelial and stroma cells from insulin‐like growth factor 1 knockdown
Authors: Qian Qiaofeng , He Weixiang , Liu Daoquan , Yin Jing , Ye Linpeng , Chen Ping , Xu Deqiang , Liu Jianmin , Li Yan , Zeng Guang , Li Mingzhou , Wu Zhonghua , Zhang Yingao , Wang Xinghuan , DiSanto Michael E. , Zhang Xinhua
Published: April 2021

Background

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common disease in elderly men and is often accompanied by chronic inflammation. Macrophages (several subtypes) are the main inflammatory cells that infiltrate the hyperplastic prostate and are found to secrete cytokines and growth factors. The current study aims to explore the effect of M2a macrophages on the development of BPH via insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1).

Methods

Human prostate tissues, prostate, and monocyte cell lines (WPMY‐1, BPH‐1, and THP‐1) were used. THP‐1 was polarized into several subtypes with cytokines. The expression and localization of IGF‐1 and M2 macrophages were determined via immunofluorescent staining, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot analysis. Flow cytometry and 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays were used to investigate the effects of different subtypes of macrophages on prostate cells. IGF‐1 in WPMY‐1 and BPH‐1 cells was silenced and cocultured with or without M2a macrophages. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), and fibrosis processes were examined.

Results

The polarized subtypes of macrophages were verified by amplifying their specific markers. M2a macrophages enhanced prostate cell proliferation more significantly and CD206 was more expressed in hyperplastic prostate. IGF‐1 was localized in both epithelial and stromal components of prostate and upregulated in BPH tissues. M2a macrophages expressed more IGF‐1 than other subtypes. Knockdown of IGF‐1 in WPMY‐1 and BPH‐1 cells attenuated cell proliferation, promoted cell apoptosis, retarded cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase, and suppressed the EMT process in BPH‐1 cells as well as the fibrotic process in WPMY‐1 cells, which was reversible when cocultured with M2a macrophages.

Conclusion

These data demonstrated that knockdown of IGF‐1 expression in cultured BPH epithelial and stromal cells reduces proliferation and increases apoptosis. These effects are reversed by coculture with M2a macrophages.
Inferring metal binding sites in flexible regions of proteins
Authors: Garg Aditi , Pal Debnath
Published: April 2021

Metal ions are central to the molecular function of many proteins. Thus their knowledge in experimentally determined structure is important; however, such structures often lose bound metal ions during sample preparation. Identification of these metal‐binding site(s) becomes difficult when the receptor is novel and/or their conformations differ in the bound/unbound states. Locating such sites in theoretical models also poses a challenge due to the uncertainties with side‐chain modeling. We address the problem by employing the Geometric Hashing algorithm to create a template library of functionally important binding sites and match query structures with the available templates. The matching is done on the structure ensemble obtained from coarse‐grained molecular dynamics simulation, where metal‐specific amino acids are screened to infer the true site. Test on 1347 non‐redundant monomer protein structures show that Ca2+, Zn2+, Mg2+, Cu2+, and Fe3+ binding site residues can be classified at 0.92, 0.95, 0.80, 0.90, and 0.92 aggregate performance (out of 1) across all possible thresholds. The performance for Ca2+ and Zn2+ is notably superior in comparison to state‐of‐the‐art methods like IonCom and MIB. Specific case studies show that additionally predicted metal‐binding site residues in proteins have features necessary for ion binding. These include new sites not predicted by other methods. The use of coarse‐grained dynamics thus provides a generalized approach to improve metal‐binding site prediction. The work is expected to contribute to improving our ability to correctly predict protein molecular function where knowledge of metal binding is a key requirement.
Molecular basis for higher affinity of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike RBD for human ACE2 receptor
Authors: Delgado Julián M. , Duro Nalvi , Rogers David M. , Tkatchenko Alexandre , Pandit Sagar A. , Varma Sameer
Published: April 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has caused substantially more infections, deaths, and economic disruptions than the 2002‐2003 SARS‐CoV. The key to understanding SARS‐CoV‐2's higher infectivity lies partly in its host receptor recognition mechanism. Experiments show that the human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) protein, which serves as the primary receptor for both CoVs, binds to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of CoV‐2's spike protein stronger than SARS‐CoV's spike RBD. The molecular basis for this difference in binding affinity, however, remains unexplained from X‐ray structures. To go beyond insights gained from X‐ray structures and investigate the role of thermal fluctuations in structure, we employ all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations. Microseconds‐long simulations reveal that while CoV and CoV‐2 spike‐ACE2 interfaces have similar conformational binding modes, CoV‐2 spike interacts with ACE2 via a larger combinatorics of polar contacts, and on average, makes 45% more polar contacts. Correlation analysis and thermodynamic calculations indicate that these differences in the density and dynamics of polar contacts arise from differences in spatial arrangements of interfacial residues, and dynamical coupling between interfacial and non‐interfacial residues. These results recommend that ongoing efforts to design spike‐ACE2 peptide blockers will benefit from incorporating dynamical information as well as allosteric coupling effects.
Distributed unscented Kalman filtering for nonlinear systems: A mixed event‐triggered strategy
Authors: Sun Yuan‐Cheng , Yang Guang‐Hong
Published: April 2021

In this article, the problem of distributed state estimation is addressed for nonlinear systems based on the unscented Kalman filter (UKF) framework. The local estimates are obtained from distributed UKFs with stochastic event‐triggered schedules. The consensus of estimated states is achieved by employing the covariance intersection fusion method, while a novel event‐triggered strategy for the node‐to‐node communication is developed. Furthermore, the boundedness and convergence of the covariance matrix are analyzed. Compared with the existing works on distributed Kalman filtering, a new nonlinear global observability condition is proposed to relax the constraint that the system is necessarily observable by each sensor, and the relationship between the convergence and the event‐triggering parameters is revealed. Finally, simulations demonstrate the results in this article.
Biogeochemical multi‐tag approach reveals the habitat use of a large‐scale migratory fish through a fluvio‐estuarine system
Authors: Llamazares Vegh Sabina , Volpedo Alejandra V. , Sánchez Sebastian , Avigliano Esteban
Published: April 2021

This study assesses the use of stable isotopes (δ13C and δ15N) and trace elements in gills (G), liver (L), and muscle (M) of the most commercially important migratory fish from the La Plata Basin, Prochilodus lineatus, as habitat proxies. With this purpose, fish and sediment (S) samples from the Paraná River and Río de la Plata Estuary were analyzed. Results showed differences in the stable isotopic ratios in fish tissue and sediments between the river and the estuary. In particular, δ15N values of the estuary samples were significantly lower (G = 7.38‰; L = 6.60‰; M = 8.61‰ and S = 4.36‰) than those from the river (G = 11.30–11.53‰; L = 11.03–12.35‰; M = 11.27–11.31‰, and S = 6.78–7.72‰), which could denote a shift in the isotopic baseline between these environments. Quadratic discriminant analysis effectively discriminates between sampling sites with high classification rates (L = 97.5%; G = 90%, and M = 82.5%), suggesting that combining stable isotopes and trace elements is useful to discriminate between fish populations. The liver was the most suitable tissue as a habitat indicator, using mainly δ15N, δ13C, Cr, and Hg as natural markers, and capable of discriminating between sites with a relatively high geographic resolution. Due to the spatial isotopic heterogeneity found in the La Plata Basin, these natural markers could be useful for studying other aquatic organisms' habitat use.
Synthesis of 1,6‐Naphthyridine and Its Derivatives: A Systematic Review
Authors: Devadoss Thangaraj , Sowmya Veldhi , Bastati Ravali
Published: April 2021

The naturally and synthetically obtained 1,6‐naphthyridine derivatives possess a wide range of pharmacological properties. This factor inspired the medicinal chemists and organic chemists to develop new methods for the synthesis of 1,6‐naphthyridine derivatives. This review will discuss the synthesis of 1,6‐naphthyridine and its derivatives from diverse starting materials or key intermediates in a systematic manner with appropriate mechanisms.
Microwave‐Assisted Iron(III)Chloride Catalyzed One‐Pot Michael Addition‐Cyclization for the Synthesis of 6H‐Chromeno[4’,3’:4,5] imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine
Authors: Mishra Mitali , Mishra Nilima P. , Raiguru Bishnu P. , Das Tapaswini , Mohapatra Seetaram , Nayak Sabita , Mishra Deepak R. , Panda Jasmine , Sahoo Dipak K.
Published: April 2021

An efficient one‐pot Michael addition‐cyclization reaction has been developed for the synthesis of 6H‐chromeno[4’,3’ : 4,5]imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine under microwave irradiation method. The current protocol paves the way for the synthesis of twenty number of structurally diversified imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines in high yield by the reaction of substituted 2‐aryl‐3‐nitro‐2H‐chromenes with 2‐aminopyridines using anhydrous iron(III)chloride. This current protocol is the first report of the preparation of this medicinally significant highly substituted 6H‐chromeno[4’,3’ : 4,5]imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine derivatives under microwave irradiation in good to high yields. The tolerance of a wide range of functional groups, operational simplicity and short reaction times are the significant advantages of this protocol.
Effect of magnesium and vitamin B6 supplementation on mental health and quality of life in stressed healthy adults: Post‐hoc analysis of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Noah Lionel , Dye Louise , Bois De Fer Béatrice , Mazur André , Pickering Gisèle , Pouteau Etienne
Published: April 2021

Magnesium status and vitamin B6 intake have been linked to mental health and/or quality of life (QoL). In an 8‐week Phase IV randomised controlled study in individuals with low magnesemia and severe/extremely severe stress but who were otherwise healthy, greater stress reduction was achieved with magnesium combined with vitamin B6 than with magnesium alone. We present a previously unreported secondary analysis of the effect of magnesium, with and without vitamin B6, on depression, anxiety, and QoL. Adults with Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS‐42) stress subscale score >18 were randomised 1:1 to magnesium + vitamin B6 combination (Magne B6®; daily dose 300 and 30 mg, respectively) or magnesium alone (Magnespasmyl®; daily dose 300 mg). Outcomes included changes from baseline in DASS‐42 depression and anxiety scores, and QoL (Short Form‐36 Health Survey). DASS‐42 anxiety and depression scores significantly improved from baseline to week 8 with both treatments, particularly during the first 4 weeks. Improvement in QoL continued over 8 weeks. Participants' perceived capacity for physical activity in daily life showed greater improvement with magnesium + vitamin B6 than magnesium alone (Week 4). In conclusion, magnesium supplementation, with or without vitamin B6, could provide a meaningful clinical benefit in daily life for individuals with stress and low magnesemia.
Examining investor reactions to appointments of Black top management executives and CEOs
Authors: Gligor David M. , Novicevic Millorad , Feizabadi Javad , Stapleton Andrew
Published: April 2021

Research summary

The authors investigated investor reactions to the appointment of Black executives. The results indicate that investors respond: (1) more negatively to the announcement of Black CEO appointments than to White CEO appointments, (2) more negatively to the announcement of the Black top management team (TMT) appointments than to White TMT appointments, (3) more negatively to the announcement of Black CEO appointments than to Black TMT appointments, and (4) more negatively to the announcement of Black CEO appointments who are promoted from outside the firm than to the announcement of Black CEO appointments who are promoted from inside the firm. Moreover, the post‐hoc analysis revealed that investors react more negatively to the TMT appointment of Black executives than to the TMT appointment of Latino or Asian executives. Our results show the negative association between the appointment of Black executives and investors' reactions, and we hope it sparks future research examining causal factors and their potential solutions.

Managerial summary

Investors react more negatively to the announcement of Black CEO appointments than to White CEO appointments, and more negatively to the announcement of Black CEO appointments who are promoted from outside the firm than to the announcement of Black CEO appointments who are promoted from inside the firm. Moreover, investors react more negatively to TMT appointments of Black executives than to TMT appointments of White, Latino, or Asian executives.
A High‐Rate and Ultrastable Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Battery with a Novel MgV2O6·1.7H2O Nanobelt Cathode
Authors: Wang Xiao , Zhang Zhengchunyu , Xiong Shenglin , Tian Fang , Feng Zhenyu , Jia Yuxi , Feng Jinkui , Xi Baojuan
Published: April 2021

High‐safety and low‐cost aqueous Zn‐ion batteries have triggered an astounding investigation surge in the last 5 years and are becoming competitive alternatives for grid‐scale energy storage. However, the implementation of this promising technology is still plagued by the lack of effective and affordable cathode materials that can enable high energy densities and an exceptional cycling stability. Herein, a novel vanadium‐based oxide cathode based on MgV2O6·1.7H2O nanobelts, which delivers a high capacity (425.7 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1), a robust rate capability (182.1 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1), and an ultrastable cycle without any visible deterioration, as well as an adequate energy density (331.6 Wh kg−1), is developed. Such excellent electrochemical Zn‐ion storage performance is believed to result from the fast ion‐diffusion kinetics boosted by a stable layered structure and an ultrahigh intercalation pseudocapacitance reaction, which are also benefited by a typical H+/Zn2+ co‐insertion mechanism, accompanied by an atypical Zn2+ intercalation chemistry with a partial but irreversible Mg2+–Zn2+ ion‐exchange reaction during the initial discharge. These results provide key and enlightening insights into the design of high‐performance vanadium oxide cathode materials.
Design and Fabrication of Hierarchical NiCoP–MOF Heterostructure with Enhanced Pseudocapacitive Properties
Authors: He Shixue , Guo Fengjiao , Yang Qi , Mi Hongyu , Li Jingde , Yang Nianjun , Qiu Jieshan
Published: April 2021

Metal–organic framework (MOF)‐derived heterostructures possessing the merits of each component are thought to display the enhanced energy storage performance due to their synergistic effect. Herein, a functional heterostructure (NiCoP–MOF) composed of nickel/cobalt‐MOF (NiCo–MOF) and phosphide (NiCoP) is designed and fabricated via the localized phosphorization of unusual lamellar brick‐stacked NiCo–MOF assemblies obtained by a hydrothermal method. The experimental and computational analyses reveal that such‐fabricated heterostructures possess the modulated electronic structure, abundant active sites, and hybrid crystalline feature, which is kinetically beneficial for fast electron/ion transport to enhance the charge storage capability. Examined as the supercapacitor electrode, the obtained NiCoP–MOF compared to the NiCo–MOF delivers a high capacity of 728 C g−1 (1.82 C cm−2) at 1 A g−1 with a high capacity retention of 430 C g−1 (1.08 C cm−2) when increasing the current density to 20 A g−1. Importantly, the assembled solid‐state NiCoP–MOF‐based hybrid supercapacitor displays superior properties regarding the capacity (226.3 C g−1), energy density (50.3 Wh kg−1), and durability (≈100% capacity retention over 10 000 cycles). This in situ heterogenization approach sheds light on the electronic structure modulation while maintaining the well‐defined porosity and morphology, holding promise for designing MOF‐based derivatives for high performance energy storage devices.
Activation Strategies of Perovskite‐Type Structure for Applications in Oxygen‐Related Electrocatalysts
Authors: Wei Yicheng , Weng Zheng , Guo Linchuan , An Li , Yin Jie , Sun Shuoyi , Da Pengfei , Wang Rui , Xi Pinxian , Yan Chun‐Hua
Published: April 2021

The oxygen‐related electrochemical process, including the oxygen evolution reaction and oxygen reduction reaction, is usually a kinetically sluggish reaction and thus dominates the whole efficiency of energy storage and conversion devices. Owing to the dominant role of the oxygen‐related electrochemical process in the development of electrochemical energy, an abundance of oxygen‐related electrocatalysts is discovered. Among them, perovskite‐type materials with flexible crystal and electronic structures have been researched for a long time. However, most perovskite materials still show low intrinsic activity, which highlights the importance of activation strategies for perovskite‐type structures to improve their intrinsic activity. In this review, the recent progress of the activation strategies for perovskite‐type structures is summarized and their related applications in oxygen‐related electrocatalysis reactions, including electrochemistry water splitting, metal–air batteries, and solid oxide fuel cells are discussed. Furthermore, the existing challenges and the future perspectives for the designing of ideal perovskite‐type structure catalysts are proposed and discussed.
NiS2 Nanocubes Coated Ti3C2 Nanosheets with Enhanced Light‐to‐Heat Conversion for Fast and Efficient Solar Seawater Steam Generation
Authors: Wang Zhenguo , Xu Wangqiong , Yu Ke , Gong Shijing , Mao Huibing , Huang Rong , Zhu Ziqiang
Published: April 2021

Recently, 2D materials have emerged in the field of light‐to‐heat conversion. However, it is urgent to find a simple and effective method to reduce the light reflectivity of the 2D surface to improve the light‐to‐heat conversion efficiency. A 2D nano‐self‐assembly material coating (NiS2@Ti3C2) realized by a simple hydrothermal method, which enables unique‐sized nano‐NiS2 crystals and 2D Ti3C2–MXenes to self‐assemble on a 3D scale, is innovatively proposed. Such a preparation method can construct a unique multilayer structure for multistage diffuse reflection of incident light, so that the MXene nanomaterial can achieve a light absorption rate of >90% in a wide spectral range. The composite is theoretically verified through optical simulation and first principles, and a higher light‐to‐heat conversion performance is achieved experimentally (61.7 °C surface equilibrium temperature, 1 sun). Compared with other similar materials, the assembled MXene seawater steam generator achieves a higher steam generation rate (1.27 kg m−2 h−1) and light‐to‐heat conversion efficiency (83.84%) under 1 sun. This material structure can maximize MXene active materials’ utilization and provide ideas for modifying other 2D photothermal materials.
Exploring the Contemporary Relationship between Predator and Prey in a Significant, Reintroduced Lahontan Cutthroat Trout Population
Authors: Budy Phaedra , Heredia Nicholas A. , Thiede Gary P. , Horgen Erik
Published: April 2021

Lahontan Cutthroat Trout (LCT) Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi have experienced some of the most marked reductions in abundance and distribution among Cutthroat Trout subspecies. The population of LCT in Pyramid Lake, Nevada has returned from the brink of extirpation, and although it is highly managed via stocking, the population is thriving and has recently started to reproduce naturally. Our objectives were to determine (1) whether predator and prey remain tightly coupled, (2) whether LCT are food limited, and (3) the status of the LCT population with regard to the potential prey‐based contemporary carrying capacity. We used a multifaceted approach, including intensive field sampling of fish, bioenergetics modeling, cohort reconstruction, and comparisons of prey availability to consumption. We estimated that the average population of LCT in Pyramid Lake is 1.2 million, average annual stocking is 650,000, and the number of fish angled ranges from 5,000 to 14,000 per year, with a 90% release rate. Driven by seasonal and size variation in consumption, individual annual consumption by LCT varied from 667 to 992 g/year for small LCT (200–400 mm TL) and from 2,388 to 3,057 g/year for large LCT (>400 mm TL). Lahontan Cutthroat Trout are consuming, on average, 14–63% of the standing crop of Tui Chub Siphateles bicolor annually, indicating that LCT are currently not exceeding their prey‐based carrying capacity. The LCT in Pyramid Lake remain tightly coupled to their primary native prey, Tui Chub, despite considerable changes to the ecosystem; therefore, managing for a robust population of LCT translates largely to managing for forage fish. This supply‐versus‐demand issue is of particular concern for Pyramid Lake given that the density of Tui Chub may be declining concordant with declining lake elevation. Given the conservation importance of this LCT population, careful monitoring is critical; however, “predation inertia” indicates that effective short‐term management in response to fluctuations in forage fishes is likely possible.
Superseding the type of Mendoncia (Acanthaceae) with a species from eastern Brazil
Authors: Silva Fabio Araújo da , Taylor Nigel P. , Zappi Daniela C.
Published: April 2021

The identity of the type of the genus Mendoncia is clarified and the existing type superseded. A Brazilian species, M. velloziana, is chosen in favour of M. aspera, described from Peru. This became necessary because Vandelli only had access to eastern Brazilian material from the region of Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais when describing the genus Mendoncia.
Collaboratively engineering for justice in sixth grade STEM
Authors: Calabrese Barton Angela , Schenkel Kathleen , Tan Edna
Published: April 2021

In this article, it is argued that processes of co‐production can support teachers and students in organizing resources for justice through science learning. Drawing upon a critical justice conceptual framework, critical ethnographic data from one urban middle school classroom during a unit focused on engineering for sustainable communities were analyzed. Findings describe how processes of co‐production yielded new Discourse threads focused on sustainability, whose ideas matter, and empathy, which were embodied in students' engineered artifacts and how students talked about using those artifacts. Such embodiment positioned students as rightfully present and powerful experts in science and engineering. We discuss how processes of co‐production supported justice by supporting new social relationships between the teacher and students that helped to make space for collective engagement of students' political struggles against the oppressive practices of schooling as an integral part of science learning.
Signatures of ultralight dark matter in neutrino oscillation experiments
Authors: Dev Abhish , Machado Pedro A. N. , Martínez-Miravé Pablo
Published: April 2021

Abstract

We study how neutrino oscillations could probe the existence of ultralight bosonic dark matter. Three distinct signatures on neutrino oscillations are identified, depending on the mass of the dark matter and the specific experimental setup. These are time modulation signals, oscillation probability distortions due to fast modulations, and fast varying matter effects. We provide all the necessary information to perform a bottom-up, model-independent experimental analysis to probe such scenarios. Using the future DUNE experiment as an example, we estimate its sensitivity to ultralight scalar dark matter. Our results could be easily used by any other oscillation experiment.
Bootstrapping BPS spectra of 5d/6d field theories
Authors: Kim Hee-Cheol , Kim Minsung , Kim Sung-Soo , Lee Ki-Hong
Published: April 2021

Abstract

We propose a systematic approach to computing the BPS spectrum of any 5d/6d supersymmetric quantum field theory in Coulomb phases, which admits either gauge theory descriptions or geometric descriptions, based on the Nakajima-Yoshioka’s blowup equations. We provide a significant generalization of the blowup equation approach in terms of both properly quantized magnetic fluxes on the blowup $$ \hat{\mathrm{\mathbb{C}}} $$

ℂ
̂

2 and the effective prepotential for 5d/6d field theories on the Omega background which is uniquely determined by the Chern-Simons couplings on their Coulomb branches. We employ our method to compute BPS spectra of all rank-1 and rank-2 5d Kaluza-Klein (KK) theories descending from 6d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (1, 0) superconformal field theories (SCFTs) compactified on a circle with/without twist. We also discuss various 5d SCFTs and KK theories of higher ranks, which include a few exotic cases such as new rank-1 and rank-2 5d SCFTs engineered with frozen singularity as well as the 5d SU(3)8 gauge theory currently having neither a brane web nor a smooth shrinkable geometric description. The results serve as non-trivial checks for a large class of non-trivial dualities among 5d theories and also as independent evidences for the existence of certain exotic theories.
Political machines: a framework for studying politics in social machines
Authors: Papakyriakopoulos Orestis
Published: April 2021

In the age of ubiquitous computing and artificially intelligent applications, social machines serves as a powerful framework for understanding and interpreting interactions in socio-algorithmic ecosystems. Although researchers have largely used it to analyze the interactions of individuals and algorithms, limited attempts have been made to investigate the politics in social machines. In this study, I claim that social machines are per se political machines, and introduce a five-point framework for classifying influence processes in socio-algorithmic ecosystems. By drawing from scholars from political theory, I use a notion of influence that functions as a meta-concept for connecting and comparing different conceptions of politics. In this way, I can associate multiple political aspects of social machines from a cybernetic perspective. I show that the framework efficiently categorizes dimensions of influence that shape interactions between individuals and algorithms. These categories are symbolic influence, political conduct, algorithmic influence, design, and regulatory influence. Using case studies, I describe how they interact with each other on online social networks and in algorithmic decision-making systems and illustrate how the framework is able to guide scientists in further research.
Correlations of typical pain patterns with SPECT/CT findings in unhappy patients after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Mathis Dominic T. , Tschudi Samuel , Amsler Felix , Hauser Antonia , Rasch Helmut , Hirschmann Michael T.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The diagnostic process in patients after painful total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is challenging. The more clinical and radiological information about a patient with pain after TKA is included in the assessment, the more reliable and sustainable the advice regarding TKA revision can be. The primary aim was to investigate the position of TKA components and evaluate bone tracer uptake (BTU) using pre-revision SPECT/CT and correlate these findings with previously published pain patterns in painful patients after TKA.

Methods

A prospectively collected cohort of 83 painful primary TKA patients was retrospectively evaluated. All patients followed a standardized diagnostic algorithm including 99m-Tc-HDP-SPECT/CT, which led to a diagnosis indicating revision surgery. Pain character, location, dynamics and radiation were systematically assessed as well as TKA component position in 3D-CT. BTU was anatomically localized and quantified using a validated localization scheme. Component positioning and BTU were correlated with pain characteristics using non-parametric Spearman correlations (p < 0.05).

Results

Based on Spearman’s rho, significant correlations were found between pain and patients characteristics and SPECT/CT findings resulting in nine specific patterns. The most outstanding ones include: Pattern 1: More flexion in the femoral component correlated with tender/splitting pain and patella-related pathologies. Pattern 3: More varus in the femoral component correlated with dull/heavy and tingling/stinging pain during descending stairs, unloading and long sitting in patients with high BMI and unresurfaced patella. Pattern 6: More posterior slope in the tibial component correlated with constant pain.

Conclusion

The results of this study help to place component positioning in the overall context of the "painful knee arthroplasty" including specific pain patterns. The findings further differentiate the clinical picture of a painful TKA. Knowing these patterns enables a prediction of the cause of the pain to be made as early as possible in the diagnostic process before the state of pain becomes chronic.

Level of evidence

Level III
Trophic upgrading of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids by polychaetes: a stable isotope approach using Alitta virens
Authors: Pairohakul Supanut , Olive Peter J. W. , Bentley Matthew G. , Caldwell Gary S.
Published: April 2021

Polychaete worms are rich sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and are increasingly incorporated into aquaculture broodstock diets. Conventionally, the build-up of PUFA in polychaetes was considered passive, with direct accumulation along the food web, originating with microalgae and other primary producers. However, it has been argued that polychaetes (and other multicellular eukaryotes) are capable of PUFA biosynthesis through the elongation and desaturation of precursor lipids. We further test this hypothesis in the ecologically and economically important nereid polychaete Alitta virens by adopting a stable isotope labelling approach. Worms were fed a 13C-1-palmitic acid (C16:0) enriched diet with the resulting isotopically enriched lipid products identified over a 7-day period. The data showed strong evidence of lipid elongation and desaturation, but with a high rate of PUFA turnover. A putative biosynthetic pathway is proposed, terminating with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) via arachidonic (AA) and eicosapentaenoic acids (EPA) and involving a Δ8 desaturase.