bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One‐time Electromagnetic Irradiation Modifies Stress‐sensitive Gene Expressions in Rice Plant
Authors: Kundu Ardhendu , Vangaru Sathish , Bhowmick Sucharita , Bhattacharyya Somnath , Mallick Amirul I. , Gupta Bhaskar
Published: September 2021

Electromagnetic energy is utilized over multiple frequency bands to provide seamless wireless communication services. Plants can well perceive electromagnetic energy present in open environment due to reasonably high permittivity and electrical conductivity of constituent tissues. Moreover, higher surface‐to‐volume ratio of plant structure facilitates increased interaction with the incident electromagnetic waves. To date, a few well‐designed studies have been conducted inside controlled electromagnetic reverberation chambers to investigate either short duration‐low amplitude or long duration‐periodic electromagnetic irradiation‐induced molecular responses in plants. However, as far as is known, studies investigating molecular responses particularly at the mid‐vegetative stage in plants following one‐time (hours‐long) electromagnetic irradiation have not been reported earlier. Hence, the present study aimed at investigating molecular responses in 40‐day‐old Swarnaprabha rice plants following one‐time 1837.50 MHz, 2.75 mW/m2 electromagnetic irradiation of 2 h 30 min duration. Controlled electromagnetic irradiation inside a simple reverberation chamber was ensured to achieve pure electromagnetic environment at 1837.50 MHz with deterministic electromagnetic power density at selected position. Swarnaprabha rice plant was chosen for this investigation since the rice variety is widely cultivated and consumed in the Indian subcontinent. Subsequent alterations in some selected stress‐sensitive gene expressions were assayed using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction technique—significant upregulation in calmodulin and phytochrome B gene expressions were noted. This investigation was purposefully focused on subsequent molecular responses immediately following electromagnetic irradiation so that the possible effects of secondary stimulations could be avoided. Observed molecular responses strongly suggested that plants perceive 1837.50 MHz, 2.75 mW/m2 electromagnetic irradiation similar to other injurious stimuli. © 2021 Bioelectromagnetics Society.
Interactions between dietary polyphenols and aging gut microbiota: A review
Authors: Davinelli Sergio , Scapagnini Giovanni
Published: September 2021

Aging induces significant shifts in the composition of gut microbiota associated with decreased microbial diversity. Age‐related changes in gut microbiota include a loss of commensals and an increase in disease‐associated pathobionts. These alterations are accelerated by lifestyle factors, such as poor nutritional habits, physical inactivity, and medications. Given that diet is one of the main drivers shaping the gut microbiota, nutritional interventions for restoring gut homeostasis are of great importance to the overall health of older adults. Polyphenols, ubiquitously present in fruits and vegetables, have emerged as promising anti‐aging candidates because of their ability to modulate some of the common denominators of aging, including gut dysbiosis. These compounds can influence the composition of the gut microbiota, and gut bacteria metabolize polyphenols into bioactive compounds that produce relevant health effects. Although the role of polyphenols on the aging gut has not been fully characterized, accumulating evidence suggests that these compounds exert selective effects on the gut microbial community. Here, we discuss the reciprocal interactions between polyphenols and gut microbiota and summarize the latest findings on the effects of polyphenols on modulating intestinal bacteria during aging.
Vitamin D and colorectal cancer: Chemopreventive perspectives through the gut microbiota and the immune system
Authors: Rinninella Emanuele , Mele Maria Cristina , Raoul Pauline , Cintoni Marco , Gasbarrini Antonio
Published: September 2021

Vitamin D and its receptor are involved in health and diseases through multiple mechanisms including the immune system and gut microbiota modulations. Gut microbiota variations have huge implications in intestinal and extra‐intestinal disorders such as colorectal cancer (CRC). This review highlights the preventive role of vitamin D in colorectal tumorigenesis through the effects on the immune system and gut microbiota modulation. The different associations between vitamin D, gut microbial homeostasis, immune system, and CRC, are dissected. Vitamin D is supposed to exert several chemopreventive effects on CRC including direct antineoplastic mechanisms, the effects on the immune system, and gut microbiota modulation. Large clinical studies with a randomized design, are required to confirm the role of vitamin D in CRC, confirming its key role in the complex interplay between the gut immune system and microbiota.
Connecting research and teaching introductory cell and molecular biology using an Arabidopsis mutant screen
Authors: Liu Jinjie , Cook Ron , Danhof Linda , Lopatto David , Stoltzfus Jon R. , Benning Christoph
Published: September 2021

A complex research project was translated into a Course‐based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE), which was implemented in sections of an introductory Cell and Molecular Biology laboratory course. The research laboratory generated an engineered plant line producing a growth‐inhibiting, lipid‐derived plant hormone and mutagenized this line. Students in the CURE cultured the mutagenized plant population and selected and characterized suppressor mutants. They learned to observe phenotypes related to the biosynthesis and perception of the plant hormone and explored the genetic and biochemical basis of these phenotypes. As the students studied the relevant genetic, molecular and biochemical concepts during this CURE, they were able to translate this knowledge into practice and develop scientific arguments. This CURE was a successful collaboration between the teaching lab and the research lab. It benefited both parties as the students had a real‐life, deep learning experience in scientific methodology, while the research lab gathered data and materials for further studies.
Diffusion kurtosis imaging: An efficient tool for evaluating age‐related changes in rat brains
Authors: Han Xue‐Fang , Geng Zuo‐Jun , Zhu Qing‐Feng , Song Zhen‐Hu , Lv Huan‐Di
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To evaluate and determine age‐related changes in rat brains by studying the diffusion kurtosis imaging results among different age groups of rats.

Methods

Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats underwent conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion Kurtosis Imaging (DKI). Two diffusion values of mean kurtosis (MK) and kurtosis (K⊥) were measured and analyzed based on laterality, brain regions and age groups. The MK and K⊥ data were plotted against different age groups.

Results

No laterality was found for the MK or K⊥ values in the cerebral cortex (CT), external capsule (EC), or caudate putamen (CPu) regions. In contrast, significant changes in these values were observed among different age groups. Changes of the MK and K⊥ values were significant in both hemispheres in the EC, the CT, and the CPu brain regions. The changes in the MK and K⊥ values showed a parabolic relationship with ages in all the brain regions.

Conclusion

No laterality in the MK and K⊥ values was observed for the EC, CT, or CPu regions of the rat brain. Significant changes in MK and K⊥ values were both observed among different age groups, thus suggesting diffusion kurtosis imaging as an efficient tool for studying brain aging in rats.
Detethering the superficial temporal artery: Application to tension free superficial temporal artery‐middle cerebral artery bypasses
Authors: Mathkour Mansour , Werner Cassidy , Scullen Tyler , Fennell Vernard S. , Nerva John , Amenta Peter S. , Iwanaga Joe , Dumont Aaron S. , Bui C. J. , Mortazavi Martin M. , Hur Mi‐Sun , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: September 2021

Extracranial–intracranial bypass has been shown to be effective in the surgical treatment of moyamoya disease, complex aneurysms, and tumors that involve proximal vasculature in carefully selected patients. Branches of the superficial temporal artery (STA) are used commonly for the bypass surgery; however, an appropriate length of the donor vessel must be harvested to avoid failure secondary to anastomotic tension. The goal of this cadaveric study was to investigate quantitatively operative techniques that can increase the STA length available to facilitate tension‐free STA‐middle cerebral artery (MCA) bypass. We conducted a cadaveric study using a total of 16 sides in eight cadavers. Measurements of the STA trunk with its frontal branch (STAfb) were taken before and after skeletonization and detethering of the STA with the STAfb and mobilization of the parietal branch of the STA. A final measurement of the STA with the STAfb was taken for the free length gained toward visible proximal cortical branches of the MCA. Paired student's t‐tests were used to compare the mean length before and after mobilization and unpaired t‐tests to analyze according to laterality. The mean length of the STA with the STAfb was 9.0 cm prior to modification. After skeletonization and mobilization, the mean lengths increased significantly to 10.5 and 11.3 cm, respectively (p < 0.05). Especially in the cases that had the coiled and tortuous STA, skeletonization was considerably effective to increase the length of the STA with the STAfb. After simulating a bypass by bringing the STAfb to the recipient MCA site, the mean extended length of the STA with the STAfb was 3.0 cm. There were no statistically significant differences between sides in all measurements. We report a significant increase in the mean STA length available (3.0 cm) following skeletonization and mobilization. Clinical applications of the extended length of the STA with the STAfb may facilitate tension‐free STA‐MCA bypasses and improve outcomes. Further studies are needed in a clinical context.
Association of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes before and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy with pathological complete response and prognosis in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Hong Jin , Rui Weiwei , Fei Xiaochun , Chen Xiaosong , Shen Kunwei
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the predictive and prognostic value of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) before and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in patients with breast cancer.

Patients and methods

Consecutive breast cancer patients treated with NAC between August 2008 and November 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. TIL levels were evaluated of invasive tumor samples, and high expression was defined as TILs >10%. Total pathological complete response (pCR) was defined as no invasive tumor in the breast or lymph nodes. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess factors associated with pCR rate, disease‐free survival (DFS), and overall survival.

Results

A total of 461 patients were included. The mean pre‐NAC TIL level was higher among patients with pCR than among patients without pCR (24.28% ± 2.34% vs. 11.34% ± 0.60%, respectively, p < 0.0001). The multivariate analysis demonstrated that a high pre‐NAC TIL level was an independent risk factor for a higher pCR (odds ratio = 3.92, 95% CI = 2.23–6.90, p < 0.001). Patients with high pre‐NAC TIL levels had a better 5‐year DFS than those with low pre‐NAC TIL levels (84.5% vs. 68.9%, HR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.31–0.81, p = 0.005). The multivariate analysis showed that pre‐NAC TIL (HR = 0.48; 95% CI = 0.29–0.81, p = 0.006) but not post‐NAC TIL (HR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.50–1.59, p = 0.699) was significantly associated with DFS among patients without pCR. Furthermore, patients with low pre‐ and post‐NAC TIL levels had a worse 5‐year DFS than those with high pre‐NAC TIL levels (HR = 2.09, 95% CI = 1.23–3.56, p = 0.007).

Conclusions

Pre‐NAC TIL level can predict pCR and DFS in patients with breast cancer receiving NAC. For patients without pCR, pre‐NAC TIL, and TIL category change, but not post‐NAC TIL, were significantly associated with DFS.
Evaluating the prognostic contributions of TNM classifications and building novel staging schemes for middle ear squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Qiu Ke , Pang Wendu , Qiu Jianqing , Li Junhong , Cheng Danni , Rao Yufang , Dong Yijun , Mao Minzi , Liu Qiurui , Mu Xiaosong , Zhang Wei , Xu Wei , Ren Jianjun , Zhao Yu
Published: September 2021

Background

A universally acknowledged cancer staging system considering all aspects of the T‐, N‐, and M‐classifications for middle ear squamous cell carcinoma (MESCC) remains absent, limiting the clinical management of MESCC patients.

Materials and Methods

A total of 214 MESCC patients were extracted from the SEER (the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) database between 1973 and 2016. The relationships between patient’s characteristics and prognoses were analyzed by Kaplan–Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression models. Novel staging schemes for MESCC were designed by adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) modeling method according to the combinations of Stell’s T‐classification and the eighth AJCC N‐ and M‐classifications, of which performances were evaluated based on five criteria: hazard consistency, hazard discrimination, explained variation, likelihood difference, and balance.

Results

T‐classification was the most significant prognostic factor for MESCC patients in multivariable analysis (p = 0.021). The N‐ and M‐classifications also had obvious prognostic effect but were not statistically significant by multivariate analysis due to the limited metastasis events. Three novel staging schemes (AHR‐Ⅰ–Ⅲ models, different combination of T‐ and N‐classifications) and ST (solely derived from Stell’s T‐classification) were developed, among which the AHR‐Ⅰ staging scheme performed best.

Conclusions

Tumor extension, quantified by Stell’s T‐classification, is the most significant prognostic factor for MESCC patients. However, our AHR‐Ⅰ staging scheme, a comprehensive staging scheme that integrating T‐, N‐, and M‐classifications, might be an optimal option for clinical practitioners to predict MESCC patients’ prognosis and make proper clinical decisions.
Traumatic tattoos induced by IPL hair removal: A rare case report
Authors: Asilian Ali , Talebzadeh Zahra , Bahraminejad Mahsa , Ghazizadeh Moein
Published: September 2021

Using blue marker on the patient skin before IPL can lead to tattoos on the marked areas that must be avoided.
A pediatric case of tick‐bite–Induced meat allergy and recall urticaria
Authors: Saleem May , Nilsson Caroline
Published: September 2021

Alpha‐gal syndrome should be suspected also in children in case of typical allergic symptoms in the evening or night during tick seasons and the event of recall urticaria. It is, however, still a challenge for both patients and clinicians.
Post‐COVID‐19 co‐morbidity of emerged Lophomonas infection and invasive pulmonary aspergillosis: First case report
Authors: Sharifpour Ali , Zakariaei Zakaria , Fakhar Mahdi , Banimostafavi Elham Sadat , Nakhaei Maryam , Soleymani Mostafa
Published: September 2021

Due to long corticosteroid therapy in patients with COVID‐19, in case of cough, dyspnea, and weight loss, emerging pulmonary aspergillosis and lophomoniasis should be ruled out.
Profound decrease of liver maximum function capacity test of isoflurane sedated patients: A report of three cases
Authors: Schwier Elke , Kirchner Carmen , Eickmeyer Claas , Winde Günther , Henzler Dietrich , Köhler Thomas
Published: September 2021

LiMAx 13C‐methacetin breath test results should be interpreted with caution in patients sedated with isoflurane.
Mature ovarian teratoma with gliomatosis peritonei: A rare case report
Authors: Bajracharya Anu , Shrestha Suraj , Singh Moushumi , Dhakal Hari Prasad
Published: September 2021

Gliomatosis peritonei (GP) is rarely observed along with mature ovarian teratoma. However, it is important to recognize the benign nature of GP when associated with mature ovarian teratoma. Treatment for primary tumor and long‐term follow‐up is vital.
A case of diabetic ketoacidosis in a patient with COVID‐19 and newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes
Authors: Ishii Keitaro , Suwanai Hirotsugu , Saito Taishi , Motohashi Naoki , Hirayama Masaru , Kondo Aya , Sano Kouji , Shikuma Jumpei , Ito Rokuro , Miwa Takashi , Suzuki Ryo
Published: September 2021

To improve severe ketoacidosis with COVID‐19, insulin treatment, invasive mechanical ventilation therapy, and continuous hemodiafiltration with sodium bicarbonate infusion were effective.
Forging C−S Bonds Through Decarbonylation: New Perspectives for the Synthesis of Privileged Aryl Sulfides
Authors: Liu Chengwei , Szostak Michal
Published: September 2021

Aryl thioethers are tremendously important motifs in various facets of chemical science. Traditional technologies for the precise assembly of aryl thioethers rely on transition‐metal‐catalyzed cross‐coupling of aryl halides; however, despite the continuous advances, the scope of these methods remains limited. Recently a series of reports has advanced an alternative manifold in which thio(esters) are subject to transition‐metal‐catalyzed decarbonylation, which (1) permits to exploit ubiquitous carboxylic acids as highly desirable and orthogonal precursors to aryl halides; (2) overcomes the issues of high concentration of thiolate anion leading to catalyst poisoning; (3) enables for novel disconnections not easily available from aryl halides; and (4) introduces new concepts in catalysis.
Bayesian spline smoothing with ambiguous penalties
Authors: Zhang Xinlian , Datta Gauri S. , Ma Ping , Zhong Wenxuan
Published: September 2021

A popular method for flexible function estimation in nonparametric models is the smoothing spline. When applying the smoothing spline method, the nonparametric function is estimated via penalized least squares, where the penalty imposes a soft constraint on the function to be estimated. The specification of the penalty functional is usually based on a set of assumptions about the function. Choosing a reasonable penalty function is the key to the success of the smoothing spline method. In practice, there may exist multiple sets of widely accepted assumptions, leading to different penalties, which then yield different estimates. We refer to this problem as the problem of ambiguous penalties. Neglecting the underlying ambiguity and proceeding to the model with one of the candidate penalties may produce misleading results. In this article, we adopt a Bayesian perspective and propose a fully Bayesian approach that takes into consideration all the penalties as well as the ambiguity in choosing them. We also propose a sampling algorithm for drawing samples from the posterior distribution. Data analysis based on simulated and real‐world examples is used to demonstrate the efficiency of our proposed method.
Shrinkage quantile regression for panel data with multiple structural breaks
Authors: Zhang Liwen , Zhu Zhoufan , Feng Xingdong , He Yong
Published: September 2021

We consider a shrinkage quantile regression model for high‐dimensional panel data with multiple structural breaks. The structural breaks are assumed to be common across all individuals, but may vary across different quantile levels while sharing an identical location shift effect. We impose an L1 penalty on the individual effects and an L1‐type fusion penalty to estimate both the slope coefficients and the structural breaks by combining information at multiple quantile levels. The proposed method can detect “partial” changes of the regression coefficients and consistently estimate both the number and dates of the breaks with probability tending to 1. We establish the asymptotic properties of the proposed regression coefficient estimators as well as their post‐selection counterparts, where the dimensionality of the covariates is allowed to diverge. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method works well in finite‐sample cases. Using the proposed method, we obtain many interesting results by analyzing a dataset concerning environmental Kuznets curves.
Best approach direction for spherical random variables
Authors: Jha Jayant
Published: September 2021

The quantiles of projections are discussed for spherical random variables. The concept of best approach direction is defined for any quantile based on the ordering of projections in different directions. The usefulness of the concept is discussed when the preferred direction for a specified proportion of observations is of interest. The variation of best approach directions with quantiles is studied for different families of distributions on the sphere, which helps in gaining insights into the symmetry, uniformity, and multimodality of the distributions. Exact polynomial‐time algorithms are provided for the computation of its estimate on circle and spheres. The connected highest sample‐density regions for spherical observations can be directly derived from these estimates. Inferential properties of the estimator are studied. Simulations and analyses of real data are performed to illustrate the results.
The micro‐shear bond strength of resin cements to aged laser bleached enamel after using different desensitizing agents
Authors: Samaha Aya E. , ElFadl Ahmad K. , Anwar Mohammed N.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the micro‐shear bond strength of two resin cements to aged laser bleached enamel after the application of three different desensitizing agents.

Materials and methods

Forty extracted human central and lateral incisors were prepared and bleached using laser activation bleaching protocol. The teeth were assigned randomly into four groups for desensitization; G1: No post‐bleaching treatment, G2: GC MI Paste Plus, G3: Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (n‐HAP) and G4: Flor‐Opal. Specimens were subjected to aging for 6 months. All groups were subdivided into two subgroups according to the resin cements used (dual‐curing resin cement and light‐curing resin cement).

Results

Flor‐Opal groups showed the highest statistically significant micro‐shear bond strength (MSBS), followed by GC MI Paste Plus and n‐HAP groups with no statistically significant difference between them. The light‐curing resin cement had statistically higher MSBS than dual‐curing resin cement in case of no‐post bleaching treatment and n‐HAP groups, and no statistical difference in case of GC MI Paste Plus and Flor‐Opal groups.

Conclusion

Usage of desensitizing agents containing, CPP‐ACP, n‐HAP or fluoride after laser bleaching can enhance the bond strength of the resin cements to enamel.

Clinical significance

The composition of the desensitizing agents applied after laser bleaching could interfere in bond strength values.
Expression of oxytocin receptors in the zebra finch brain during vocal development
Authors: Davis Matthew T. , Grogan Kathleen E. , Fraccaroli Isabel , Libecap Timothy J. , Pilgeram Natalie R. , Maney Donna L.
Published: September 2021

Like human language, song in songbirds is learned during an early sensitive period and is facilitated by motivation to seek out social interactions with vocalizing adults. Songbirds are therefore powerful models with which to understand the neural underpinnings of vocal learning. Social motivation and early social orienting are thought to be mediated by the oxytocin system; however, the developmental trajectory of oxytocin receptors in songbirds, particularly as it relates to song learning, is currently unknown. This gap in knowledge has hindered the development of songbirds as a model of the role of social orienting in vocal learning. In this study, we used quantitative PCR to measure oxytocin receptor expression during the sensitive period of song learning in zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata). We focused on brain regions important for social motivation, attachment, song recognition, and song learning. We detected expression in these regions in both sexes from posthatch day 5 to adulthood, encompassing the entire period of song learning. In this species, only males sing; we found that in regions implicated in song learning specifically, oxytocin receptor mRNA expression was higher in males than females. These sex differences were largest during the developmental phase when males attend to and memorize tutor song, suggesting a functional role of expression in learning. Our results show that oxytocin receptors are expressed in relevant brain regions during song learning, and thus provide a foundation for developing the zebra finch as a model for understanding the mechanisms underlying the role of social motivation in vocal development.
An Australian perspective on “clean” dietary labels: Commentary on Negowetti et al. (2021)
Authors: Sharp Gemma , McLean Courtney P.
Published: September 2021

“Clean eating” is an increasingly popular diet trend in Western countries with links to disordered eating behaviors. However, the definition of “clean” is a highly contentious issue. Negowetti, Ambwani, Karr, Rodgers, and Austin explore this important issue from a U.S. perspective conducting a scoping review of the public health implications of the use of “clean” labels on food, including legal and policy implications. The review showed that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken little action to address regulation of the use of “clean” dietary labels. Our own brief investigations suggest that the landscape in Australia under the Food Standards Australia New Zealand authority is similar. We discuss recommendations made by Negowetti et al. to address this issue in the United States, such as the FDA providing industry guidance on the term “clean,” and the issuing of warning letters to companies who contravene this guidance. However, we predict that educating consumers to be more critical of unsubstantiated food labels in public health campaigns will be the most efficient way to change consumer behavior and address the “clean eating” diet trend. We also encourage eating disorder researchers and clinicians to be an influential part of this discussion.
The functional role and diversity of soil nematodes are stronger at high elevation in the lesser Himalayan Mountain ranges
Authors: Kouser Yasmeen , Shah Ali Asghar , Rasmann Sergio
Published: September 2021

Soil nematodes are a foremost component of terrestrial biodiversity; they display a whole gamut of trophic guilds and life strategies, and by their activity, affect major ecosystem process, such as organic matter degradation and carbon cycling. Based on nematodes' functional types, nematode community indices have been developed, and can be used to link variation in nematodes community composition and ecosystem processes. Yet, the use of these indices has been mainly restricted to anthropogenic stresses. In this study, we propose to expand the use of nematodes' derived ecological indices to link soil and climate properties with soil food webs, and ecosystem processes that all vary along steep elevation gradients. For this purpose, we explored how elevation affects the trophic and functional diversity of nematode communities sampled every 300 m, from about 1,000 m to 3,700 m above sea level, across four transects in the lesser Himalayan range of Jammu and Kashmir. We found that (a) the trophic and functional diversity of nematodes increases with elevation; (b) differences in nematodes communities generate habitat‐specific functional diversity; (c) the maturity index (ΣMI) increases with elevation, while the enrichment index decreases, indicating less mature and less productive ecosystems, enhanced fungal‐based energy flow, and a predominant role of nematodes in generating carbon influxes at high‐elevation sites. We thus confirm that the functional contribution of soil nematodes to belowground ecosystem processes, including carbon and energy flow, is stronger at high elevation. Overall, this study highlights the central importance of nematodes in sustaining soil ecosystems and brings insights into their functional role, particularly in alpine and arctic soils.
Randles circuit model for characterizing a porous stimulating electrode of the retinal prosthesis
Authors: Nomura Shuhei , Tashiro Hiroyuki , Terasawa Yasuo , Nakano Yukari , Haruta Makito , Sasagawa Kiyotaka , Takehara Hironari , Ohta Jun
Published: September 2021

To develop a visual prosthesis, it is necessary to understand the changes in the electrochemical properties of stimulating electrodes implanted in the body. To evaluate these properties, we examined three types of equivalent circuit models that represented the electrode interface 23 weeks after the stimulation began. The results indicated that the Randles circuit model with Warburg impedance exhibited the difference in the electrochemical properties of the active and inactive electrodes, which might have been caused by the desorption of adsorbed protein from the electrode surface owing to the stimulation current. This model can be used to characterize the changes in the properties of porous stimulating electrodes.
Behavioural response of brown trout (Salmo trutta) to total dissolved gas supersaturation in a regulated river
Authors: Lennox Robert J. , Thiemer Kirstine , Vollset Knut Wiik , Pulg Ulrich , Stranzl Sebastian , Nilsen Cecilie Iden , Haugen Thrond Oddvar , Velle Gaute
Published: September 2021

Total dissolved gas supersaturation from dams and power stations is a chronic freshwater pollutant that is toxic to animals with aquatic respiration. Laboratory ecotoxicology experiments have revealed capacity for captive fishes to saturoregulate by moving deeper, but field ecotoxicology research is largely lacking. We instrumented 94 brown trout in the Rysstad basin of the Otra River, Norway, with depth sensor acoustic transmitters and monitored their movements for 10 months. We found that the depths used by the trout largely protected them from the effects of total dissolved gas supersaturation, which ranged from 96% to 133% total gas pressure during the study. The depth use of fish was affected by sun position, lunar phase and spatial position in the river (i.e., available depth), and there was an extremely weak effect of total dissolved gas supersaturation that was counterintuitive (i.e., positive slope, movement toward surface). Depth traces of the fish revealed that nine fish died during the study, mostly coinciding with the first wave of supersaturation, consistent with observations of untagged dead fish with signs of gas bubble trauma found on the river bottom during this period (May‐June). Overall, tagged trout exposure to total dissolved gas supersaturation depended on their use of depth, but responses to waves of extreme supersaturation at supraphysiological levels were weak and biologically insignificant, with individual variation and spatial position in the river most important in the model. Exposure to total dissolved gas supersaturation was mediated by individual differences in habitat use, which may be linked to activity and other traits that determine overall vulnerability to exposure to total dissolved gas supersaturation.
Using health check data to investigate cognitive function in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders living with diabetes in the Torres Strait, Australia
Authors: Thompson Fintan , Harriss Linton R. , Russell Sarah , Taylor Sean , Cysique Lucette A. , Strivens Edward , Maruff Paul , McDermott Robyn
Published: September 2021

Background

Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM) has a subtle deleterious effect on cognition and imposes a higher lifetime risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. In populations where both T2DM and dementia are highly prevalent, understanding more about the early effects of T2DM on cognition may provide insights into the lifetime risks of this disease.

Methods

In 2016, 186 Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander residents of the Torres Strait (54% female, mean age =38.9 years, SD =15.9, range =15–74) participated in a community health check. The effect of diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2) on speed of thinking and working memory was assessed with the Cogstate Brief Battery (CBB) during the health check.

Results

One third of participants had diabetes (n = 56, 30.1%). After adjusting for age, education and previous iPad/Tablet experience, participants with diabetes had a small, yet significant reduction in accuracy on the One Back working memory task (β = −.076, p = .010, r2 = .042). The effect was most pronounced among participants with diabetes aged 20–49 years (n = 20), who also had evidence of poorer diabetes control (eg HbA1c% ≥6.5, 76.6%), relative to participants with diabetes aged 50 years and over (n = 31) (HbA1c% ≥6.5, 32.0%, p = .005).

Conclusions

Early and subtle decrements in working memory may be a potential complication of diabetes among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents of the Torres Strait. Several potentially influential variables were not captured in this study (eg medication and diabetes duration). Greater preventative health resources are required for this population, particularly given the emerging elevated dementia rates linked to chronic disease.
Thioureidocalix[6]arenes Pseudorotaxanes
Authors: Cera Gianpiero , Bazzoni Margherita , Andreoni Leonardo , Cester Bonati Federica , Massera Chiara , Silvi Serena , Credi Alberto , Secchi Andrea , Arduini Arturo
Published: September 2021

Heteroditopic calix[6]arenes are extensively exploited as synthetic receptors and as molecular components of supramolecular threaded and interlocked structures. We describe the synthesis of two novel calix[6]arene macrocycles, the upper rim of which is functionalized with either two or three phenylthioureido groups. These moieties are excellent hydrogen‐bond donors and largely affect the conformation of the macrocycle, both in solution and in the solid state. Alternate conformers are observed in solution, and they give rise to supramolecular chains in the solid state. Moreover, and because of this conformational freedom, also the recognition properties toward the formation of pseudorotaxanes with bipyridinium‐based axles are strongly affected. The number of phenylthioureido units of the macrocyclic host and the nature of the counterions of the bipyridinium guest determine the stability of the complexes. NMR, UV‐Vis and electrochemical measurements revealed that very stable 1 : 1 inclusion complexes are formed between the triphenylthioureido calix[6]arene and a bipyridinium guest with tosylate counterions, whereas no complex is observed between the diphenylthioureido macrocycle and a hexafluorophosphate bipyridinium salt.
TFA‐Prompted/Rh(III)‐Catalysed Chemoselective C3− or C2−H Functionalization of Indoles with Methylenecyclopropanes
Authors: Wu Min , Wang Shengdong , Wang Yi , Gao Hui , Yi Wei , Zhou Zhi
Published: September 2021

The TFA‐prompted/Rh(III)‐catalysed chemoselective C3−H alkylation, C2−H dienylation and cyclopropylation of indoles have been realized by virtue of methylenecyclopropanes as the versatile coupling partners. This protocol features broad substrate/functional group compatibility and tunable regio‐/chemoselectivity. Diversified derivatization of the obtained products has been also successfully demonstrated, which further strengthened the potential for the synthetic utility of the developed protocols.
Voltammetric immunosensor for selective thyroxine detection using Cu‐MOF@PANI composite
Authors: Mradula  , Raj Rocky , Mishra Sunita
Published: September 2021

A label‐free electrochemical immunosensor was fabricated for the detection of thyroxine hormone by immobilizing thyroxine‐specific monoclonal antibody (Ab) onto copper metal‐oxide framework (Cu‐MOF) and polyaniline (PANI) composite modified screen‐printed carbon electrode (SPCE). The Cu‐MOF@PANI@Ab‐modified SPCE was used as a sensing platform. Cu‐MOF and its composite were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, RAMAN spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, cyclic voltammetry (CV), and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The immunosensor possessed a dynamic linear range (10–105 pM) with a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.33 pM (0.25 pg/mL) for CV and 0.17 pM (0.13 pg/mL) for DPV. The evaluation study of immunosensor displayed a good analytical recovery of ≥90%, when different concentrations of thyroxine were added in the serum sample. In addition, to determine the reproducibility for working electrode between and within batch, the relative standard deviation calculated were 3.87% and 6.04%, respectively, and represent its good reproducibility. The immunosensor retained 90% of its initial activity after its regular use for 40 days, while being stored at 4 °C.
Maximum power extraction from a switched reluctance generator based wind power generating system using optimization techniques
Authors: Mapa Swagata , Gurumoorthy Bhuvaneswari
Published: September 2021

This article advocates the use of two different optimization techniques, namely, gravitational search algorithm (GSA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO), to obtain suitable combinations of firing angles for the asymmetric half bridge converter (AHBC) to ensure optimum power extraction from a switched reluctance generator (SRG) based wind power generating system, at any given wind speed. As optimum power generation from an SRG turns out to be a multi‐dimensional search problem due to the nonlinear magnetic behavior of the machine, optimization techniques can be aptly employed for obtaining suitable values of control parameters. The techniques considered in this work, GSA and PSO, do not require any information about the geometrical features of the machine. Both techniques are implemented with an outer power control loop to propel the machine to perform optimally at variable wind speeds. Simulated results obtained by modeling these techniques in MATLAB environment are validated with the experimental results from a laboratory prototype consisting of a 1 hp, 2000 rpm, 8/6 SRM, and an AHBC. The results presented bring out the relative merits and demerits of the optimization techniques, thus highlighting their suitability for actual field implementation.
Estimation of the spatial weighting matrix for regular lattice data—An adaptive lasso approach with cross‐sectional resampling
Authors: Merk Miryam S. , Otto Philipp
Published: September 2021

Spatial autoregressive models typically rely on the assumption that the spatial dependence structure is known in advance and is represented by a deterministic spatial weights matrix, although it is unknown in most empirical applications. Thus, we investigate the estimation of sparse spatial dependence structures for regular lattice data. In particular, an adaptive least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (lasso) is used to select and estimate the individual nonzero connections of the spatial weights matrix. To recover the spatial dependence structure, we propose cross‐sectional resampling, assuming that the random process is exchangeable. The estimation procedure is based on a two‐step approach to circumvent simultaneity issues that typically arise from endogenous spatial autoregressive dependencies. The two‐step adaptive lasso approach with cross‐sectional resampling is verified using Monte Carlo simulations. Eventually, we apply the procedure to model nitrogen dioxide concentrations and show that estimating the spatial dependence structure contrary to using prespecified weights matrices improves the prediction accuracy considerably.
A combined estimate of global temperature
Authors: Craigmile Peter F. , Guttorp Peter
Published: September 2021

Recently, several global temperature series have been updated using new data sets, new methods, and importantly, assessments of their uncertainties. This enables us to produce a timely estimate of the annual global mean temperature with a smaller combined estimate of uncertainty. We describe the hierarchical model we propose, and a Bayesian scheme for fitting the model, allowing for dependence between the data sets, which all use some of the same observations. The discrepancy between individual data series and the combined estimate illustrates potential sources of deviation between them. In addition, we test the sensitivity of the results to each of the series, using a leave‐one‐out approach. This is a way of combining all the data sets in a way that improves on the straight or precision weighted ensemble mean, thus providing a more authoritative global temperature series with corresponding standard errors, which are smaller than that of individual products. Using the combined estimate of the global temperature series, we estimate that the global temperature has increased 1.2°C with a standard error of 0.03°C over the 1880–1900 average. By taking into account the uncertainties of the estimates rather than just comparing the estimates, we find that the probability that 2020 was the warmest year on record is 0.44, while the years 2015–2020 are virtually certain to have been the six warmest years in recorded history. We show that our estimate performs similarly to the reanalysis product ERA5, and that the satellite record from University of Alabama does not agree very well neither with ERA5 nor with our product.
Recurrence risk after a first remote symptomatic seizure in adults: Epilepsy or not?
Authors: Zelano Johan
Published: September 2021

The ILAE practical definition of epilepsy has a one seizure possibility to diagnose epilepsy after a first seizure if the recurrence risk is very high. The recurrence risk after a first seizure in brain disorders (first remote seizure) is often high, but varies with etiology, so more specific information is needed for clinical practice. This review describes etiology‐specific recurrence risks in adults with a first remote seizure in stroke, traumatic brain injury, infections, dementia, multiple sclerosis, and tumors. Most studies are short, single center, and retrospective. Inclusion criteria, outcome ascertainment, and results vary. Few patient categories are clearly above the epilepsy threshold of recurrence risk, and there are surprisingly little data for important etiologies like brain infections. Beside stroke, severe TBI could have a sufficiently high recurrence risk for early epilepsy diagnosis, but more studies are needed, preferably prospective ones. The literature is uninformative regarding which seizures qualify as remote. The clinical implication of the low level of available evidence is that for other etiologies than stroke, seizure recurrence remains the most appropriate indicator of epilepsy for most patients with a first remote seizure. Nonetheless, there are worrying indications of a diagnostic drift, which puts patients with a preexisting brain disorder at risk of misdiagnosis. Although there are drawbacks to an intermediate term like “possible epilepsy,” it could perhaps be useful in cases when the recurrence risk is high, but epilepsy criteria are not definitely met after a first remote seizure.
Energy, exergy, exergo‐environmental, and exergetic sustainability analyses of a gas engine‐based CHP system
Authors: Hassan Rakibul , Barua Hridoy , Das Barun K.
Published: September 2021

The electricity demand is ever increasing, and the worldwide power generation is largely dependent on the rapidly dwindling fossil fuel resources. It is no different in Bangladesh as well where the prevailing dynamic in the energy sector projects to a certain lack of sustainability. This makes the performance evaluation to determine and improve the efficiency of energy conversion systems an unavoidable requisite. This study investigates the energetic and exergetic performance of a gas engine‐based (4 MW) combined heat and power system situated at Rajshahi District in Bangladesh. Different thermodynamic performance parameters along with the exergo‐environmental effect and the sustainability of the system are also assessed additionally. The overall system and individual components are analyzed based on the actual data measured on site at 48% engine load and a constant engine speed of 1500 rpm. The results reveal that the maximum energy loss and exergy destruction occur in the reciprocating engine with values of 656.54 kW and 1835.04 kW, respectively, followed by the heat recovery steam generator with 465.51 kW energy loss and 671.51 kW exergy destruction. The overall system has energy and exergy efficiency of 29.95% and 23.12%, respectively. The exergetic sustainability index of the system is found to be 1.30.
As technology disrupts equity, advocates take action: Where do evaluators fit in?
Authors: Lynn Jewlya , Mehta Twisha
Published: September 2021

Advocacy is rapidly evolving for many different reasons, ranging from increasing polarization and existential threats reaching crisis points to shifts in whose voices are heard and how much advocates focus on building power. One of the seismic changes in advocacy that cuts across all of these issues, and influences governance practices more broadly, is the rate of technological advance, which is faster than ever before. Some advocates are shifting their practices, staying abreast of technological advances, attending to how they are influencing equity, and even using emerging technologies as part of their strategies. If evaluation is to remain relevant and useful as advocates are increasingly responding to technological advances, evaluators must be aware of these shifts, understand how to think differently about measurement, have the skills to use some of the emerging technologies themselves, and be ready to help advocates learn, adapt, and iterate their strategies.
A radical arc in systematically documenting political context in advocacy evaluation
Authors: Robinson Nicole
Published: September 2021

Ten major global forces are fixed within the current political context: racial capitalism, neo‐slavery, neoliberalism, white supremacy, neofascism, neocolonialism, neo‐feudalism, imperialism, corporatism, and radical imagination. These forces have been underexamined in the current advocacy evaluation practice, creating missed opportunities for evaluation as a tool for liberation. Attending to these forces and the logics underpinning them should be a new arc within the advocacy evaluation field. Expanded evaluator skills, tools, and methodologies are needed to fully assess advocacy theories of change, campaign activities, and their results in context vis‐à‐vis these 10 global forces. Several regressive field‐level processes inhibiting radical portrayals of the political context and the creation and use of liberatory metrics in advocacy evaluation are discussed.
Radical rerouting: New roads for advocacy evaluation
Authors: Schlangen Rhonda , Coe Jim
Published: September 2021

This article discusses the evolution of evaluation of advocacy and its alignment with different parties’ interests in rigor, participation, and usefulness. We then explore responses to our paper, No Royal Road: Finding and Following the Natural Pathways of Advocacy Evaluation, which sought to reframe advocacy evaluation concepts and analytic frames in ways that take into account the complex contexts in which advocacy takes place. We suggest that a narrow conception of power is acting as a fundamental barrier to evaluation approaches that enable and support transformative advocacy. The article concludes with an argument to fully embrace complexity and power issues, noting that this points to radically different implications for future evaluation practices. This argument is, in many ways, anti‐paradigmatic to the current evaluation field, but it draws on a thread of thinking going back to the pioneers in the field.