bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Balancing Electrolyte Donicity and Cathode Adsorption Capacity for High‐Performance LiS Batteries
Authors: Kim Kiwon , Kim Taeyoung , Moon Jun Hyuk
Published: May 2022

LiS batteries with high theoretical capacity are attracting attention as next‐generation energy storage systems. Much effort has been devoted to the introduction of cathode materials with strong adsorption to sulfide species, but it is presented that this selection should be refined in the application of high donicity electrolytes. The oxides with different adsorption capacities are explored while controlling the electrolyte donicity, confirming the trade‐off effect between the donicity and the adsorption capacity for sulfur conversion. Specifically, a cathode substrate containing oxide nanoparticles of MgO, NiO, Fe2O3, Co3O4, and V2O5 is prepared with spectra in adsorption capacity as well as low and high donicity electrolytes by controlling the concentration of LiNO3 salt. Strong adsorbent oxides such as Co3O4 and V2O5 cause competitive adsorption of electrolyte salts in high donicity electrolytes, resulting in poor cell performance. High cell performance is achieved on weakly adsorbing oxides of MgO or NiO with high donicity electrolytes; the MgO‐containing cathode cell delivers a high discharge capacity of 1394 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C. It is believed that understanding the interactions between electrolytes and adsorbent substrates will be the cornerstone of high‐performance LiS batteries.
Behavior of Postcracked steel fiber‐reinforced concrete in fatigue and development of a damage prediction model
Authors: Al‐Damad Iman Munadhil Abbas , Foster Stephen James
Published: May 2022

This paper reports the results of 27 tests on determinant round panels undertaken to determine the postcracking resistance to repeated cycling (fatigue) loading of steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) of low fiber dosages. The experiments were conducted for both precracked and uncracked panels to examine the contribution of postcracking tensile strength, and the effectiveness of steel fibers in providing resistance to fatigue damage. The results quantify the improvements of fibers to fatigue life of SFRC and, particularly, to the important second stage of crack growth during cyclic loading. From the outcomes of the testing program, a damage prediction model is proposed for forecasting postcracking fatigue damage during repeated cyclic loading. The model is shown to accurately predict the overall load‐stiffness response, capture the development crack openings with increasing cycles, as well as quantify the stiffness development and number of load cycles to failure.
Synthetic Applications of Prins Cyclization in Natural Product Syntheses
Authors: Tadiparthi Krishnaji , Roy Allen , Sakirolla Raghavendra , Subba Reddy B. V. , Singh Yadav Jhillu
Published: May 2022

The natural products having tetrahydropyran unit with multiple chiral centers serve as magnificent building blocks for various active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). ‘Prins cyclization is one of the wonderful strategies to construct tetrahydropyran unit stereoselectively in asymmetric synthesis. In this account, we discuss our research efforts toward the synthesis of various natural products from the past two decades (2005–2020) by using Prins cyclization as a key step. Further, the synthetic utility of this reaction was investigated and well demonstrated on various molecules successfully.
Media selection for anammox‐based polishing filters: Balancing anammox enrichment and retention with filtration function
Authors: Fofana Rahil , Peng Bo , Huynh Huu , Sajjad Mehran , Jones Kimberly , Al‐Omari Ahmed , Bott Charles , Delgado Vela Jeseth , Murthy Sudhir , Wett Bernhard , Debarbadillo Christine , De Clippeleir Haydee
Published: May 2022

Retrofitting conventional denitrification filters into partial denitrification‐anammox (PdNA)‐ or anammox (AnAOB)‐based filters will reduce the needs for external carbon addition. The success of AnAOB‐based filters depends on anammox growth and retention within such filters. Studies have overlooked the importance of media selection and its impact on AnAOB capacity, head loss progression dynamics, and shear conditions applied onto the AnAOB biofilm. The objective of this study was to evaluate viable media types (10 types) that can enhance AnAOB rates for efficient nitrogen removal in filters. Given the higher backwash requirement and lower AnAOB capacity of the conventionally used sand, expanded clay (3–5 mm) was recommended for AnAOB‐based filters in this study. Owing to its surface characteristics, expanded clay had higher AnAOB activity (304‐ vs. 104‐g NH4+‐N/m2/day) and higher AnAOB retention (43% more) than sand. Increasing the iron content of expanded clay to 37% resulted in an increase in zeta potential, which led to 56% more anammox capacity compared to expanded clay with 7% iron content. This work provides insight into the importance of media types in the growth and retention of AnAOB in filters, and this knowledge could be used as basis in the development of PdNA filters.

Practitioner Points

Expanded clay showed the lowest head loss buildup and most likely will result in longer runtime for full‐scale PdNA applications

The highest AnAOB rates were achieved in expanded clay types and sand compared with smaller media typically used in biofiltration

Expanded clay resulted in better AnAOB retention under shear, whereas sand could not withstand shear and required more frequent backwashing

Expanded clay iron coating enhanced AnAOB enrichment and retention, most likely due to increased surface roughness and/or positive charge
Spatial distribution of potential wild turkey nest predators in west‐central Louisiana
Authors: Ulrey Erin E. , Cedotal Cody A. , Chamberlain Michael J. , Collier Bret A.
Published: May 2022

Wild turkey nest success is variable spatially and temporally, with predation being the primary driver of nest loss. Historically, characteristics of nest site vegetation have been used to predict the probability of a nest being successful, a corollary to not being preyed upon. Implicit in nest success studies is that the density, distribution, and habitat preferences of predator species, relative to wild turkey nest distribution, drive the predation risk of nests on the landscape. We quantified diversity of wild turkey nest predator species within 11‐ha incubation ranges centered on active nest sites, scent baited passive nest sites, and scent baited and unbaited random sites and developed a spatially explicit predictive model for potential nest predator distribution based on vegetation and landform characteristics that occurred within incubation ranges. We used 210 camera sites on passive (nesting area from previous year), active (nesting area same year), and random sites over 5,144 trap nights (TN) and recorded 2,925 photographs of potential nest predator species. Relative abundance indices (RAI) indicated greater abundance in passive (14.2/100 TN) and active (12.7/100 TN) nesting sites relative to random sites (3.13/100 TN). For active nesting sites, successful nests had lower RAI (1.8/100 TN) than unsuccessful nests (10.4/100 TN) and lower RAI than baited and unbaited random sites (2/100 TN and 4.3/100 TN, respectively). Our results indicate that potential wild turkey nest predator species regularly occurred within incubation ranges, but were more likely to occur in locations with nests than in random locations on the landscape. We did not document a strong relationship between potential nest predator occurrence and spatial vegetation metrics, which do not appear to affect the occurrence of generalist potential predator species. However, we did show evidence of avoidance by certain potential predators for certain vegetation types. Thus, our work indicated that the most important factor affecting a nest's outcome may be the placement of the nest on the landscape relative to use by potential predator species. We suggest future research evaluate how vegetation characteristics within wild turkey incubation ranges impact nest predator use.
Fertility
Authors: Yeung Wei-Jun Jean
Published: May 2022

The average total fertility rate (TFR) in Southeast Asia is at about the replacement level of 2.1. There has been a decline in fertility rates in all countries at varying speeds. Childlessness rates are increasing in a few countries.
Glossary Used in wIRA-Hyperthermia
Authors: Piazena H. , Müller W. , Vaupel Peter
Published: May 2022

When tissue heating with water-filtered infrared A irradiation (wIRA) is used, an exact terminology and compliance with the International System of Units (SI) are mandatory. In order to avoid misconceptions and confusion of readers/users, a glossary of basic physical terms and SI-based radiometry is presented in this chapter. Recommendations-inter alia-include: (1) terms and tools to characterize the spectrum of infrared irradiation, (2) terms and parameters of wIRA emitted by a device and incident on the surface of an exposed object, (3) terms quantifying absorption, transmittance, scattering, and remittance, (4) terms quantifying propagation of wIRA within tissues, and (5) terms quantifying optical and thermal properties, and thermal responses of tissues. Empirical and basic data for wIRA skin exposures in radiation oncology and physical therapy are also presented. Finally, obsolete and incorrect terms and vocabularies are listed. As a key information, tissue temperature levels characterizing typical wIRA-HT-related sensitizing effects and related tissue penetration depths are outlined.
Water-Filtered Infrared A Irradiation in Wound Treatment
Authors: Lange U. , Aykara I. , Klemm P.
Published: May 2022

Water-filtered infrared A irradiation (wIRA) is a special form of heat irradiation with high tissue penetration and a low thermal load to the skin surface. wIRA can be used inter alia for promoting the healing of “critical” acute and chronic wounds and also for improving “normal” wound healing (faster and with less pain). In addition, wIRA significantly reduces pain and thereby the need for analgesics, wound secretion, inflammation, and infection. The article presents historical notes on wIRA, principles of action, and its clinical application in the treatment of acute and chronic wounds based on the available literature.
Clinical Application of wIRA Irradiation in Burn Wounds
Authors: Bingoel A. S. , Strauss S. , Vogt P. M.
Published: May 2022

Besides operative procedures (e.g., necrosectomies, skin grafting), conservative treatments of thermal injuries are increasingly important. wIRA as an additional therapy for burns, scalds, and chemically induced injuries and for treating severe skin reactions (e.g., toxic epidermal necrolysis) is used in our clinic on a daily basis. The most successful therapy involves 3–4 irradiations/30 min/day. Therefore, patients with superficial partial-thickness burns are treated with topical polyhexanide ointment and wIRA 2–4 days after the accident. In these cases, we see a quick wound-drying and a rapid re-epithelialization of the skin. The approach in deep partial-thickness burns depends on whether surgical procedures must be postponed due to poor general conditions. In these patients, preservation of the wound perfusion in regions that are not fully damaged is intended, avoiding extensive necrosectomies.

Although third-degree burns are dry and do not require wIRA irradiation, it can be used for adjacent regions with minor degree burns. Preliminary in vitro data suggest a wIRA-induced migration of adipose-derived stem cells.

Postoperatively, wIRA is used on areas transplanted with split-thickness skin grafts. After removal of the tie-over bolsters, wIRA is applied 3–4 times/20–30 min/day. The grafts exhibit a faster epithelialization of the fenestrated spots, and postoperative infections seem to be less frequent.
Water-Filtered Infrared A Irradiation: From Observations in Clinical Studies to Complex In Vitro Models
Authors: Wiegand C. , Tittelbach J. , Hipler U. -C. , Elsner P.
Published: May 2022

Successful treatment of recalcitrant common hand and foot warts in a prospective randomized controlled blind trial using wIRA and PDT has been reported. In addition, in wound healing wIRA is mostly investigated in vitro based on the resolution of mechanical damage to confluent cell layers using the “scratch wound assay.” The latter enables the direct measurement of cell migration and regeneration of the cell layer. Preliminary studies for wIRA effects on wound closure in vitro have shown beneficial effects of single 10 min treatments. Although cellular processes induced and mediators involved still need to be elucidated, it is apparent that the observed clinical benefits of wIRA on wound healing can be investigated in vitro using adequate models and experimental settings. The next step is to employ 3D skin models for morphological investigations closely simulating in vivo conditions.
Water-Filtered Infrared A (wIRA) Irradiation: Novel Treatment Options for Chlamydial Infections
Authors: Kuratli J. , Marti H. , Blenn C. , Borel N.
Published: May 2022

wIRA has been shown to reduce extracellular chlamydial forms and intracellular chlamydial inclusions in different cell culture infection models, and similarly on different human or animal chlamydial species. Repeated wIRA applications increase the efficacy of treatment in vitro, and in vivo in a guinea pig ocular model of inclusion conjunctivitis. The guinea pig model reflects the human ocular disease trachoma, the most common cause of infectious blindness worldwide which is caused by ocular strains of Chlamydia trachomatis. In this model, ocular wIRA treatment reduces conjunctival chlamydial load and ocular pathology. First insights into the mechanisms of anti-chlamydial activity indicate the involvement of both thermal and non-thermal effects. Interestingly, wIRA treatment of non-infected cells renders them more resistant to subsequent chlamydial infection, suggesting cell-related mechanisms that might involve cytochrome C. Further studies envisage the refinement of wIRA treatment protocols, the enhancement of anti-chlamydial activity by adding photodynamic substances, and characterization of the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic benefit of wIRA.
Safety of Water-Filtered Infrared A (wIRA) on the Eye as a Novel Treatment Option for Chlamydial Infections
Authors: Frohns A. , Frohns F.
Published: May 2022

wIRA has been shown to reduce chlamydial infections in vitro and in vivo and might therefore offer an innovative therapeutic approach for fighting trachoma. However, since the eye is a highly temperature- and radiation-sensitive organ, a safety assessment of the ocular structures affected by wIRA treatment is required to establish wIRA as a potentially successful treatment option for clinical application. A prerequisite for this is to demonstrate that wIRA does not have adverse side-effects such as inducing a non-physiological temperature increase which causes cell stress and damage to ocular tissues and which, in turn, is ultimately associated with impaired vision. Likewise, the potential negative impact of non-thermal photochemical effects of wIRA irradiation needs to be investigated. Data from our ex vivo studies in pig and mouse models, as well as in vivo data in a guinea pig model, provide good evidence for the safe use of wIRA to treat chlamydial infections. These studies have excluded a non-physiological temperature rise as well as the activation of heat and stress-induced proteins after wIRA irradiation with therapy-relevant irradiances. Nevertheless, additional detailed in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to further advance the clinical use of wIRA.
Combined Use of wIRA and Microwave or Radiofrequency Hyperthermia
Authors: Crezee J. , Bakker A. , Zweije R. , Kolff M. W. , van den Bongard H. J. G. D. , van Tienhoven G. , Kok H. P.
Published: May 2022

Clinical hyperthermia (i.e., heating of tumor tissue to 40–43 °C) is used in clinical oncology to enhance the therapeutic effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Most recurrent breast cancer and melanoma lesions reach up to a few cm deep and can be effectively treated with currently available superficial hyperthermia devices using infrared or microwave radiation. Effective heating of more challenging and complex semi-superficial or semi-deep tumor lesions, including intact breast or lesions near silicone implants, requires dedicated treatment protocols. Herein, new treatment protocols are presented, which combine simultaneous and consecutive use of different wIRA, microwave, and radiofrequency hyperthermia devices. Examples are included, showing the clinical setup, applicator choice, and invasive and noninvasive thermometry.
Numerikbezogene Definitionen, Entwicklungen und Betrachtungen
Authors: Wild Jochen
Published: May 2022

Um für evolventisch basierte Zahnwellenverbindungen nach Kapitel 3.3, wenn denn existent, geometrieparameterspezifische Optima für das Kriterium der Gestaltfestigkeit bestimmen beziehungsweise, wenn denn nicht existent, Empfehlungen für ihre günstige Gestaltung definieren zu können, ist die Ermittlung der entsprechenden Festigkeit zahlreicher derartiger Verbindungen Grundvoraussetzung. Mit den in diesem Zusammenhang festgelegten Parameterfeldern, vgl. die Kapitel 4.3.1, 6.2.2 sowie 6.3.2, kann der zu bewältigende enorme Arbeitsaufwand grob abgeschätzt werden. Nicht angeführt sind hierbei weitere mannigfaltige Voruntersuchungen.
Zusammenfassung
Authors: Wild Jochen
Published: May 2022

Häufige Problemstellung in der Praxis ist die Übertragung hoher und oftmals zudem stoßartig auftretender Torsionsmomente $$M_{t}$$

M
t

. Für diese Anforderungen stellten evolventisch basierte Zahnwellenverbindungen nach [DIN 5480] bislang den Stand der Technik dar. Der kontinuierlichen Steigerung der Leistungsdichte geschuldet, wurden ihre Gestaltfestigkeitsgrenzen jedoch immer häufiger erreicht.
Search for coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering at a nuclear reactor with CONNIE 2019 data
Authors:   The CONNIE collaboration, Aguilar-Arevalo Alexis , Bernal Javier , Bertou Xavier , Bonifazi Carla , Cancelo Gustavo , de Carvalho Victor G. P. B. , Cervantes-Vergara Brenda A. , Chavez Claudio , Corrêa Gustavo Coelho , D’Olivo Juan C. , dos Anjos João C. , Estrada Juan , Fernandes Neto Aldo R. , Fernandez Moroni Guillermo , Foguel Ana , Ford Richard , Gasanego Barbuscio Julián , Gonzalez Cuevas Juan , Hernandez Susana , Izraelevitch Federico , Kilminster Ben , Kuk Kevin , Lima Herman P. , Makler Martin , Martinez Montero Mauricio , Mendes Larissa Helena , Molina Jorge , Mota Philipe , Nasteva Irina , Paolini Eduardo , Rodrigues Dario , Sarkis Y. , Sofo Haro Miguel , Stalder Diego , Tiffenberg Javier
Published: May 2022

Abstract

The Coherent Neutrino-Nucleus Interaction Experiment (CONNIE) is taking data at the Angra 2 nuclear reactor with the aim of detecting the coherent elastic scattering of reactor antineutrinos with silicon nuclei using charge-coupled devices (CCDs). In 2019 the experiment operated with a hardware binning applied to the readout stage, leading to lower levels of readout noise and improving the detection threshold down to 50 eV. The results of the analysis of 2019 data are reported here, corresponding to the detector array of 8 CCDs with a fiducial mass of 36.2 g and a total exposure of 2.2 kg-days. The difference between the reactor-on and reactor-off spectra shows no excess at low energies and yields upper limits at 95% confidence level for the neutrino interaction rates. In the lowest-energy range, 50 − 180 eV, the expected limit stands at 34 (39) times the standard model prediction, while the observed limit is 66 (75) times the standard model prediction with Sarkis (Chavarria) quenching factors.
Magnitude cohomology
Authors: Hepworth Richard
Published: May 2022

Magnitude homology was introduced by Hepworth and Willerton in the case of graphs, and was later extended by Leinster and Shulman to metric spaces and enriched categories. Here we introduce the dual theory, magnitude cohomology, which we equip with the structure of an associative unital graded ring. Our first main result is a ‘recovery theorem’ showing that the magnitude cohomology ring of a finite metric space completely determines the space itself. The magnitude cohomology ring is non-commutative in general, for example when applied to finite metric spaces, but in some settings it is commutative, for example when applied to ordinary categories. Our second main result explains this situation by proving that the magnitude cohomology ring of an enriched category is graded-commutative whenever the enriching category is cartesian. We end the paper by giving complete computations of magnitude cohomology rings for several large classes of graphs.
The effects of autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) on mood, attention, heart rate, skin conductance and EEG in healthy young adults
Authors: Engelbregt H. J. , Brinkman K. , van Geest C. C. E. , Irrmischer M. , Deijen J. B.
Published: May 2022

Autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) is a warm tingling sensation which is often accompanied by feelings of calmness and relaxation. The present study examined the effects of an ASMR video on mood, attention, heart rate (HR), electrodermal activity (EDA), electroencephalography (EEG) and the interaction with personality factors in 38 young adults (33 females and 5 males). Based on the ASMR-checklist responses of having tingles during watching the ASMR video 15 participants out of 38 were classified as ASMR-experiencers. Mood, attention and personality characteristics were measured by the Profile of Mood States, the Flanker task and HEXACO. EEG, HR and EDA were recorded during the ASMR and control videos. Depressive feelings decreased after watching the ASMR video in individuals experiencing tingles relative to those not experiencing tingles. Furthermore, in all participants, irrespective of experiencing tingles, a decrease of HR during watching the ASMR video was found. In ASMR-experiencers scoring low on Conscientiousness EDA tended to increase and HR tended-relatively to the group not experiencing tingles—to decrease during watching the ASMR video. EEG recordings indicated that watching the ASMR video was associated with decreased alpha power in ASMR-sensitive participants and decreased theta as well as increased beta power in the whole group of participants. The observed ASMR-induced decrease of alpha and theta power and increase of beta power and (only in low conscientious participants) EDA may reflect that, apart from relaxation, ASMR is related to arousal and focused attention.
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia: Genotypic Characterization of Virulence Genes and The Effect of Ascorbic Acid on Biofilm Formation
Authors: ElBaradei Amira , Yakout Marwa Atef
Published: May 2022

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an environmental bacterium that has gained a lot of attention, as a nosocomial pathogen associated with significant mortality rates. Biofilm formation is considered the corner stone for establishing infections in many bacteria including S. maltophilia. The aim of this study was the genotypic characterization of the different virulence-associated genes and the investigation of the effect of ascorbic acid on S. maltophilia biofilm formation. A total of 20 S. maltophilia isolates from different sources were included in this study. Genes encoding different virulence factors were investigated genotypically. These included stmPr1, stmPr2, smlt3773 locus, smf-1, rpfF, rmlA and spgM. Biofilm formation was investigated phenotypically. The effect of ascorbic acid on biofilm formation was investigated using MIC as well as sub-inhibitory concentrations. Many of the isolates harbored both serine proteases genes stmPr-1 and stmPr-2. Fourteen (70%) of the 20 isolates carried stmPr-1 and 15 (75%) had stmPr-2. Most of the isolates (95%) possessed smlt-3773 locus. Genes linked to biofilm formation such as smf-1, rpfF, rmlA and spgM, were found in (90%), (45%), (85%) and (30%) of the isolates, respectively. Phenotypically, all S. maltophilia isolates (100%) were biofilm producers. Fifteen (75%) were strong biofilm producers and 5 (25%) were moderate biofilm producers. In attempts to seek a non-chemotherapeutic alternative that can hinder biofilm formation without provoking antimicrobial resistance, the results, herein, showed that ascorbic acid inhibits biofilm formation in a dose-dependent manner.
No effects of acute tryptophan depletion on anxiety or mood in weight-recovered female patients with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Weinert Tomas , Bernardoni Fabio , King Joseph , Steding Julius , Boehm Ilka , Mannigel Merle , Ritschel Franziska , Zepf Florian , Roessner Veit , Ehrlich Stefan
Published: May 2022

Background

Previous studies have suggested that individuals recovered from anorexia nervosa (AN) are characterized by increased serotonergic (5-HT) activity that might be related to elevated levels of anxiety. Assuming these traits to be also present in individuals at risk for AN, it was further hypothesized that restricting food intake might be a means to temporarily alleviate dysphoric affective states by reducing central nervous availability of tryptophan (TRP), the sole precursor of 5-HT. One study that supported this hypothesis found anxiolytic effects in individuals with a history of AN during an experimentally induced short-term depletion of TRP supply to the brain.

Methods

In this placebo-controlled, double-blind cross-over study, 22 patients weight-recovered from AN (recAN) and 25 healthy control participants (HC) completed questionnaires assessing anxiety and momentary mood during acute tryptophan depletion (ATD), a dietary intervention that lowers central 5-HT synthesis.

Results

The ATD procedure effectively reduced the ratio of TRP to competing for large neutral amino acids in the peripheral blood, indicating decreased TRP supply to the brain. Effects of ATD on anxiety and mood did not differ between recAN and HC. Bayesian null hypothesis testing confirmed these initial results.

Discussion

Our results do not support the hypothesis that short-term depletion of TRP and its impact on the brain 5-HT reduces anxiety or improves mood in AN. As the evidence for the role of 5-HT dysfunction on affective processes in patients with AN is limited, further studies are needed to assess its relevance in the pathophysiology of AN.
Allele segregation analysis of F1 hybrids between independent Brassica allohexaploid lineages
Authors: Quezada-Martinez Daniela , Zou Jun , Zhang Wenshan , Meng Jinling , Batley Jacqueline , Mason Annaliese S.
Published: May 2022

In the Brassica genus, we find both diploid species (one genome) and allotetraploid species (two different genomes) but no naturally occurring hexaploid species (three different genomes, AABBCC). Although hexaploids can be produced via human intervention, these neo-polyploids have quite unstable genomes and usually suffer from severe genome reshuffling. Whether these genome rearrangements continue in later generations and whether genomic arrangements follow similar, reproducible patterns between different lineages is still unknown. We crossed Brassica hexaploids resulting from different species combinations to produce five F1 hybrids and analyzed the karyotypes of the parents and the F1 hybrids, as well as allele segregation in a resulting test-cross population via molecular karyotyping using SNP array genotyping. Although some genomic regions were found to be more likely to be duplicated, deleted, or rearranged, a consensus pattern was not shared between genotypes. Brassica hexaploids had a high tolerance for fixed structural rearrangements, but which rearrangements occur and become fixed over many generations does not seem to show either strong reproducibility or to indicate selection for stability. On average, we observed 10 de novo chromosome rearrangements contributed almost equally from both parents to the F1 hybrids. At the same time, the F1 hybrid meiosis produced on average 8.6 new rearrangements. Hence, the increased heterozygosity in the F1 hybrid did not significantly improve genome stability in our hexaploid hybrids and might have had the opposite effect. However, hybridization between lineages was readily achieved and may be exploited for future genetics and breeding purposes.
Diagnostic accuracy of calretinin and acetylcholinesterase staining of rectal suction biopsies in Hirschsprung disease examined by unexperienced pathologists
Authors: Beltman L. , Windster J. D. , Roelofs J. J. T. H. , van der Voorn J. P. , Derikx J. P. M. , Bakx R.
Published: May 2022

Rectal suction biopsy (RSB) is a gold standard for diagnosing Hirschsprung disease (HD). Calretinin staining of RSB is increasingly used by experienced pathologists due to non-complex examination and comparable diagnostic accuracy with acetylcholinesterase (AChE). However, the diagnostic accuracy of calretinin examined by unexperienced pathologists remains to be elucidated. Therefore, we aim to compare diagnostic accuracy of calretinin with AChE on RSB for diagnosing HD when examined by unexperienced pathologists. We prospectively analyzed sections from RSB stained with AChE + HE and calretinin. Blinded examination was done by five unexperienced pathologists (pathology residents) and three experienced pathologists (senior pediatric gastro-enterology pathologists) assessing for the presence of HD. Cases for the study included ones proven to be HD on resection specimens and cases without HD. Diagnostic accuracy was determined calculating area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratio, and posttest probability. Fleiss’ kappa analysis was performed to assess interobserver agreement between reviewers. Eleven of 18 included patients (61%) were diagnosed with HD. Comparing the diagnostic accuracy of unexperienced pathologists, calretinin versus AChE + HE showed sensitivity of 80.0% versus 74.5% and specificity of 100% versus 65.4%, AUC of 0.87 (0.78–0.96) versus 0.59 (0.45–0.72). Unexperienced pathologists showed substantial agreement with calretinin (kappa 0.72 [0.61–0.84]) and fair agreement with AChE + HE (kappa 0.34 [0.23–0.44]). We found calretinin having higher diagnostic accuracy in diagnosing HD compared to AChE + HE when examined by unexperienced pathologists. Therefore, we recommend to use calretinin as the standard technique for staining RSB in diagnosing HD.
Endoscopic vacuum-assisted surgical closure (EVASC) of anastomotic defects after low anterior resection for rectal cancer; lessons learned
Authors: Talboom Kevin , Greijdanus Nynke G. , Ponsioen Cyriel Y. , Tanis Pieter J. , Bemelman Wilhelmus A. , Hompes Roel
Published: May 2022

Background

Endoscopic vacuum-assisted surgical closure (EVASC) is an emerging treatment for AL, and early initiation of treatment seems to be crucial. The objective of this study was to report on the efficacy of EVASC for anastomotic leakage (AL) after rectal cancer resection and determine factors for success.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included all rectal cancer patients treated with EVASC for a leaking primary anastomosis after LAR at a tertiary referral centre (July 2012—April 2020). Early initiation (≤ 21 days) or late initiation of the EVASC protocol was compared. Primary outcomes were healed and functional anastomosis at end of follow-up.

Results

Sixty-two patients were included, of whom 38 were referred. Median follow-up was 25 months (IQR 14–38). Early initiation of EVASC (≤ 21 days) resulted in a higher rate of healed anastomosis (87% vs 59%, OR 4.43 [1.25–15.9]) and functional anastomosis (80% vs 56%, OR 3.11 [1.00–9.71]) if compared to late initiation. Median interval from AL diagnosis to initiation of EVASC was significantly shorter in the early group (11 days (IQR 6–15) vs 70 days (IQR 39–322), p < 0.001). A permanent end-colostomy was created in 7% and 28%, respectively (OR 0.18 [0.04–0.93]). In 17 patients with a non-defunctioned anastomosis, and AL diagnosis within 2 weeks, EVASC resulted in 100% healed and functional anastomosis.

Conclusion

Early initiation of EVASC for anastomotic leakage after rectal cancer resection yields high rates of healed and functional anastomosis. EVASC showed to be progressively more successful with the implementation of highly selective diversion and early diagnosis of the leak.

Graphical abstract
Aktuelle Konflikte in Partnerschaften vor dem Hintergrund vergangener Beziehungserfahrungen
Authors: Grilz Petra
Published: May 2022

Die aktuelle Forschungslage kann nicht klar beantworten, ob die frühen Eltern-Kind-Interaktionen für einen späteren Umgang mit Konflikten in Partnerschaften die Weichen stellen, oder lediglich ein Fundament bieten, auf dem man aufbauen kann. In der vorliegenden Studie wurde der Einfluss von vergangenen, zwischenmenschlichen Beziehungen auf die aktuelle, konflikthafte Paardynamik untersucht. Hierbei wurde überprüft, ob sich zwischen der aktuellen Partnerschaft und vorherigen Beziehungserfahrungen (insbesondere aus der Herkunftsfamilie) ähnliche Interaktionsmuster hinsichtlich angewandter Bewältigungsstrategien in Konfliktsituationen erkennen lassen. Der Umgang mit Konflikten in aktuellen und vergangenen Beziehungserfahrungen wurde mittels problemzentrierten Interviews erhoben, bei welchen acht Paare getrennt voneinander in Einzelinterviews befragt wurden. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die frühen Eltern-Kind-Interaktionen für die spätere Konfliktgestaltung in der Partnerschaft von besonderer Bedeutung sind. Entsprechend der erlernten Konfliktgestaltung wurde der Umgang mit Konflikten in der Herkunftsfamilie in ähnlicher oder gleicher Weise in der späteren Partnerschaft fortgesetzt. Demzufolge deutet in diesem Kontext vieles darauf hin, dass die vergangenen Lebensumstände, bzw. der in der Herkunftsfamilie erlernte Umgang mit Konflikten für die Konfliktgestaltung in der Partnerschaft entscheidend sind.
Atherosclerotic plaque characteristics on quantitative coronary computed tomography angiography associated with ischemia on positron emission tomography in diabetic patients
Authors: Kamperidis Vasileios , de Graaf Michiel A. , Uusitalo Valtteri , Saraste Antti , Kuneman Jurriën H. , van den Hoogen Inge J. , Knuuti Juhani , Bax Jeroen J.
Published: May 2022

Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) may show diffuse coronary artery atherosclerosis on coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA). The present study aimed at quantification of atherosclerotic plaque with CTA and its association with myocardial ischemia on positron emission tomography (PET) in DM patients. Of 922 symptomatic outpatients without previously known coronary artery disease who underwent CTA, 115 with DM (mean age 65 ± 8 years, 58% male) who had coronary atherosclerosis and underwent both quantified CTA (QCTA) and PET were included in the study. QCTA analysis was performed on a per-vessel basis and the most stenotic lesion of each vessel was considered. Myocardial ischemia on PET was based on absolute myocardial blood flow at stress ≤ 2.4 ml/g/min. Of the 345 vessels included in the analysis, 135 (39%) had flow-limiting stenosis and were characterized by having longer lesions, higher plaque volume, more extensive plaque burden and higher percentage of dense calcium (37 ± 22% vs 28 ± 22%, p = 0.001). On univariable analysis, QCTA parameters indicating the degree of stenosis, the plaque extent and composition were associated with presence of ischemia. The addition of the QCTA degree of stenosis parameters (x2 36.45 vs 88.18, p < 0.001) and the QCTA plaque extent parameters (x2 88.18 vs 97.44, p = 0.01) to a baseline model increased the association with ischemia. In DM patients, QCTA variables of vessel stenosis, plaque extent and composition are associated with ischemia on PET and characterize the hemodynamic significant atherosclerotic lesion.
Spatially varying trophic effects of reservoir-derived plankton on stream macroinvertebrates among heterogeneous habitats within reaches
Authors: Takahashi Shinji , Takemon Yasuhiro , Omura Tatsuo , Watanabe Kozo
Published: May 2022

Using a stable isotope two- and three-source mixing model, we evaluated trophic contributions of reservoir-derived plankton, epilithon, and terrestrial leaves to stream macroinvertebrates at two dam upstream and four dam outlet reaches. We compared four different habitat types co-occurring within the reaches: lotic habitat, bar-head lentic habitat, bar-tail lentic habitat, and isolated pond on sandy bars. Filter-feeders, which provide the highest trophic contributions of reservoir-derived plankton, did not significantly differ among habitats, whereas collector-gatherers and predators differed significantly. Thus, the three-source model analysis for collector-gatherers and predators indicated a lower proportion of reservoir-derived plankton in lentic habitat than in lotic habitat. This difference in food source composition was reflected in the lower trophic contribution of plankton to lentic species. Macroinvertebrates in lentic habitats fed on sources less mixed with reservoir-derived plankton; therefore, the trophic impact of reservoirs was indistinctive at the community level, indicating that lentic habitats can function as trophic refugia to mitigate the trophic impact of reservoirs. Our findings demonstrate that habitat heterogeneity potentially provides a foundation for determining the trophic contribution of food webs while affecting communities when there is anthropogenic input of food resources to the habitat.
TCNQ-based organic cocrystal integrated red emission and n-type charge transport
Authors: Jiang Mengjia , Li Shuyu , Zhen Chun , Wang Lingsong , Li Fei , Zhang Yihan , Dong Weibing , Zhang Xiaotao , Hu Wenping
Published: May 2022

Simultaneously realizing the optical and electrical properties of organic materials is always challenging. Herein, a convenient and promising strategy for designing organic materials with integrated optoelectronic properties based on cocrystal engineering has been put forward. By selecting the fluorene (Flu) and the 7,7′,8,8′-tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) as functional constituents, the Flu-TCNQ cocrystal prepared shows deep red emission at 702 nm, which is comparable to the commercialized red quantum dot. The highest electron mobility of organic field-effect transistor (OFET) based on Flu-TCNQ is 0.32 cm2 V−1 s−1. Spectroscopic analysis indicates that the intermolecular driving force contributing to the co-assembly of Flu-TCNQ is mainly charge transfer (CT) interaction, which leads to its different optoelectronic properties from constituents.

Graphical Abstract
Antiaging agents: safe interventions to slow aging and healthy life span extension
Authors: Liu Ji-Kai
Published: May 2022

Human longevity has increased dramatically during the past century. More than 20% of the 9 billion population of the world will exceed the age of 60 in 2050. Since the last three decades, some interventions and many preclinical studies have been found to show slowing aging and increasing the healthy lifespan of organisms from yeast, flies, rodents to nonhuman primates. The interventions are classified into two groups: lifestyle modifications and pharmacological/genetic manipulations. Some genetic pathways have been characterized to have a specific role in controlling aging and lifespan. Thus, all genes in the pathways are potential antiaging targets. Currently, many antiaging compounds target the calorie-restriction mimetic, autophagy induction, and putative enhancement of cell regeneration, epigenetic modulation of gene activity such as inhibition of histone deacetylases and DNA methyltransferases, are under development. It appears evident that the exploration of new targets for these antiaging agents based on biogerontological research provides an incredible opportunity for the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. The present review focus on the properties of slow aging and healthy life span extension of natural products from various biological resources, endogenous substances, drugs, and synthetic compounds, as well as the mechanisms of targets for antiaging evaluation. These bioactive compounds that could benefit healthy aging and the potential role of life span extension are discussed.
Climate change mitigation: thermal comfort improvement in Mediterranean social dwellings through dynamic test cells modelling
Authors: Calama-González Carmen María , León-Rodríguez Ángel Luis , Suárez Rafael
Published: May 2022

Global warming will lead to adverse consequences for human health and well-being. This research ought to determine whether passive low-cost strategies freely controlled by users (ventilation strategies, solar shadings or window operation) could be applied in low-income dwellings to meet acceptable thermal comfort to retrofit the Mediterranean social housing stock of southern Spain towards climate change. On-site measurements registered in some test cells (controlled environment with no users’ influence) were used to calibrate dynamic energy simulation models. The impact of several future periods, climate zones of southern Spain and orientations on thermal comfort was assessed. The results show that climate change triggers a more significant increase in outdoor temperatures in summer than in winter. Should ventilation be kept to minimum and blinds opened during daytime in winter, higher comfort would be achieved, with great differences between orientations and south reporting the best results. The higher the outdoor temperatures due to climate change, the higher the percentage of comfort hours (i.e. 23–68% in the present and 50–75% in 2080). In summer, natural night ventilation and blinds closed during daytime lead to the best comfort result, with negligible temperature differences between orientations. Future climate change scenarios worsen the percentage of comfort hours (i.e. 96–100% in the present, while up to 17% in 2080). Mechanical ventilation and blind aperture schedules were found to have the highest influence on overheating discomfort. Likewise, mechanical and natural ventilation schedules had the highest impact on undercooling discomfort.
Disordered eating in early childhood: DRD4 and DAT1 gene polymorphisms and quality of mother–child interaction
Authors: Pascale Esterina , Cimino Silvia , Cerniglia Luca , Bevilacqua Arturo
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Eating disturbances are complex heritable conditions that can be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors but are poorly studied in early development. The aim of this research was to investigate the association of genetic polymorphisms within dopaminergic pathways with early feeding problems.

Methods

We analyzed the presence of VNTR polymorphisms of DRD4 (rs1805186) and DAT1 (rs28363170) in overeating (N = 45), undereating (N = 48) and control (N = 44) young children. We also assessed presence of externalizing, internalizing and dysregulation symptoms by the Child Behavior Checklist and quality of mother–child interactions during feeding by the Italian adaptation of the Scale for the Assessment of Feeding Interaction, respectively.

Results

Both polymorphisms were associated with children’s eating behavior, psychological symptoms and quality of interaction with their mothers, suggesting that: (a) the DRD4 4-repeat allele behaves as a protective factor, the 2-repeats and 7-repeats alleles as risk factors, for undereating behavior, the general quality of mother–child interaction and internalizing, externalizing and dysregulated symptoms; and (b) the DAT1 9-repeats allele behaves as a protective factor, the 10-repeats allele as a risk factor, for overeating behavior, the general quality of mother–child interaction, internalizing, externalizing and dysregulated symptoms. Finally, a gene x gene interaction is suggested between the DAT1 9-repeat or 10-repeat allele and the DRD4 4-repeat allele.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a role for DRD4 and DAT1 in an early susceptibility to eating disturbances.

Level of evidence III

Evidence obtained from well-designed case–control analytic study.
Facilitating development of research ethics and integrity leadership competencies
Authors: Tammeleht Anu , Löfström Erika , Rodríguez-Triana ja María Jesús
Published: May 2022

To build a culture of integrity in a HE institution, innovative approaches are needed to enhance education of research ethics and integrity (REI). In addition to educating students, understanding is needed on how to facilitate for those who lead others. The focus is on early-career researchers (ECRs) as future REI leaders. The current study sheds light on how learning and REI leadership competencies evolve during scaffolded collaborative research ethics training for this target group. The study combines new instruments as part of holistic DBR. Data was collected from 3 groups of experienced researchers attending 3 training sessions in the form of written group reports and group discussion recordings. Qualitative deductive analysis was utilised for monitoring the learning process, scaffolding patterns, and display of REI leadership principles. Also, quantitative analysis was applied to group discussion data, displaying the nature of collaboration. Results imply that collaborative case-based role play format is effective in training future REI leaders. All groups displayed high levels of understanding. Combining ECRs and researchers with leadership experience supported knowledge building in the groups by bringing in various perspectives. Even though groups required different amounts of scaffolding, the nature was similar: maintaining goal orientation, highlighting critical features and redirecting learners. Learning analytics of collaboration indicated that the person with leadership experience was not necessarily the most active participant nor took the role of a ‘group leader’. Still, it was mostly that person who displayed leadership competencies thus supporting other group members to develop leadership aspects.
Blockchain and supply chain finance: a critical literature review at the intersection of operations, finance and law
Authors: Ioannou Ilias , Demirel Guven
Published: May 2022

In the current environment, where the Covid-19 pandemic has exposed the vulnerabilities of the incumbent paper-based trade and supply chain finance systems, digital transformation pledges to alleviate the friction on international trade. Here, we provide a timely review of state-of-the-art industry applications and theoretical perspectives on the use of blockchain as the medium toward digitalisation for supply chain finance systems. We argue that blockchain technology has an innovation promoting role in supply chain finance solutions through reducing inefficiencies and increasing visibility between different parties, which have hitherto constituted the main challenges in this sphere. Based on a review of the academic literature as well as an analysis of the industrial solutions that have emerged, we identify and discuss the financial, operational and legal challenges encountered in supply chain financing and the promise of blockchain to address these limitations. We discuss the bottlenecks as well as the benefits of blockchain and identify some necessary conditions required for the emergence of blockchain-enabled trade and supply chain financing, such as the establishment of co-opetition among supply chain actors, integration with IoT systems for data quality, and reform of regulatory and legal frameworks. We conclude by identifying promising research directions about the implementation process, inviting further research into the transformation of business models toward a more collaborative nature.