bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coordinated patterning of zebrafish caudal fin symmetry by a central and two peripheral organizers
Authors: Desvignes Thomas , Robbins Amy E. , Carey Andrew Z. , Bailon‐Zambrano Raisa , Nichols James T. , Postlethwait John H. , Stankunas Kryn
Published: April 2022

Background

Caudal fin symmetry characterizes teleosts and likely contributes to their evolutionary success. However, the coordinated development and patterning of skeletal elements establishing external symmetry remains incompletely understood. We explore the spatiotemporal emergence of caudal skeletal elements in zebrafish to consider evolutionary and developmental origins of caudal fin symmetry.

Results

Transgenic reporters and skeletal staining reveal that the hypural diastema‐defining gap between hypurals 2 and 3 forms early and separates progenitors of two plates of connective tissue. Two sets of central principal rays (CPRs) synchronously, sequentially, and symmetrically emerge around the diastema. The two dorsal‐ and ventral‐most rays (peripheral principal rays, PPRs) arise independently and earlier than adjacent CPRs. Muscle and tendon markers reveal that different muscles attach to CPR and PPR sets.

Conclusions

We propose that caudal fin symmetry originates from a central organizer that establishes the hypural diastema and bidirectionally patterns surrounding tissue into two plates of connective tissue and two mirrored sets of CPRs. Further, two peripheral organizers unidirectionally specify PPRs, forming a symmetric “composite” fin derived from three fields. Distinct CPR and PPR ontogenies may represent developmental modules conferring ray identities, muscle connections, and biomechanical properties. Our model contextualizes mechanistic studies of teleost fin morphological variation.
A hierarchical N‐mixture model to estimate behavioral variation and a case study of Neotropical birds
Authors: Ke Alison , Sollmann Rahel , Frishkoff Luke O. , Karp Daniel S.
Published: April 2022

Understanding how and why animals use the environments where they occur is both foundational to behavioral ecology and essential to identify critical habitats for species conservation. However, some behaviors are more difficult to observe than others, which can bias analyses of raw observational data. To our knowledge, no method currently exists to model how animals use different environments while accounting for imperfect behavior‐specific detection probability. We developed an extension of a binomial N‐mixture model (hereafter the behavior N‐mixture model) to estimate the probability of a given behavior occurring in a particular environment while accounting for imperfect detection. We then conducted a simulation to validate the model's ability to estimate the effects of environmental covariates on the probabilities of individuals performing different behaviors. We compared our model to a naïve model that does not account for imperfect detection, as well as a traditional N‐mixture model. Finally, we applied the model to a bird observation data set in northwest Costa Rica to quantify how three species behave in forests and farms. Simulations and sensitivity analyses demonstrated that the behavior N‐mixture model produced unbiased estimates of behaviors and their relationships with predictor variables (e.g., forest cover, habitat type). Importantly, the behavior N‐mixture model accurately characterized uncertainty, unlike the naïve model, which often suggested erroneous effects of covariates on behaviors. When applied to field data, the behavior N‐mixture model suggested that Hoffmann's woodpecker (Melanerpes hoffmanii) and Inca dove (Columbina inca) behaved differently in forested versus agricultural habitats, while turquoise‐browed motmot (Eumomota superciliosa) did not. Thus, the behavior N‐mixture model can help identify habitats that are essential to a species' life cycle (e.g., where individuals nest, forage) that nonbehavioral models would miss. Our model can greatly improve the appropriate use of behavioral survey data and conclusions drawn from them. In doing so, it provides a valuable path forward for assessing the conservation value of alternative habitat types.
Dual Photocatalysis for the Straightforward Coupling of Thiosugars and Arylsulfoximines: Towards Unprecedented Cyclic Heteroatomic Structures
Authors: Duhail Thibaut , Zhu Mingxiang , Rombault Coralie , Dagousset Guillaume , Messaoudi Samir , Magnier Emmanuel , Anselmi Elsa
Published: April 2022

A general, scalable and easy to implement protocol is described for the coupling of thiosugars and various ortho‐functionalized S‐aryl S‐perfluoroalkyl sulfoximines. This dual photocatalysis methodology was developed with a commercial hydrogen atom transfer reagent and produced key structures that were transformed into original cyclic skeletons bearing previously undescribed chemical functions.
Screening prolyl hydroxylase domain 2 inhibitory activity of traditional Chinese medicine by CZE‐UV
Authors: Zhang Ying , Zhao Ming , Wang Cheng‐Bo , Wang Yu , Nsanzamahoro Stanislas , Zhu Ling‐Ling , Wang Wei‐Feng , Yang Jun‐Li
Published: April 2022

Prolyl hydroxylase domain 2 (PHD2) is a key enzyme regulating the expression of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF). Its inhibitors can improve the expression of HIF and downstream genes, which can treat hypoxia‐related diseases. Therefore, the establishment of a reliable PHD2 inhibitors screening method is of great significance for the drug development of hypoxia‐related diseases. In this work, an accurate, rapid, and simple screening method for PHD2 inhibitors was introduced by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE). In order to improve the detection sensitivity, the derivative reaction of α‐ketoglutaric acid (α‐OG) and 1,2‐diaminobenzene (OPD) was used to enhance the UV absorption of α‐OG (the substrate in the enzymatic reaction). The CZE method selected 20 mM Na2B4O7 buffer (pH 9.0) as the separation buffer, +25 kV as the separation voltage, 25°C as the cartridge temperature, and 210 nm as the detection wavelength. Under this condition, the analysis of a single sample can be realized within 9 min. Compared with the existing reported methods, the present work can directly screen the PHD2 inhibitory activity of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) extracts, which is of significance for the target‐purification of bioactive individual compounds from TCMs. Under the optimal conditions, the PHD2 inhibitor screening platform was successfully established, and it was found that 70% methanol/water extracts of Astragali Radix and Codonopsis pilosula had good PHD2 inhibitory activity. Furthermore, the present work provides a novel approach for screening the PHD2 inhibitory activity of TCM extracts and the discovery of anti‐hypoxia bioactive compounds.
The effects of COVID‐19 measures on the hospitalization of patients with epilepsy and status epilepticus in Thailand: An interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Sirikarn Prapassara , Tiamkao Siriporn , Tiamkao Somsak
Published: April 2022

Objective

To investigate the effect of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) measures on the hospitalization of patients with epilepsy and status epilepticus (SE).

Methods

This interrupted time series design included data from the Thai Universal Coverage Scheme electronic database between January 2017 and September 2020. The monthly hospitalization rate of epilepsy and SE was calculated by the number of hospitalizations divided by the midyear population. Segmented regression fitted by ordinary least squares (OLS) was used to detect the immediate and overtime effects of COVID‐19 measures on the hospitalization rate.

Results

During January 2017 and September 2020, the numbers of epilepsy and SE patients admitted to the hospital were 129 402 and 15 547 episodes, respectively. The monthly trend of the hospitalization rate in epilepsy decreased immediately after the COVID‐19 measure (0.739 per 100 000 population [95% CI: 0.219 to 1.260]). In particular, the number of children declined to 1.178 per 100 000 population, and the number of elderly individuals dropped to 0.467 per 100 000 population, while there was a nonstatistically significant change in SE.

Significance

COVID‐19 measures reduced the hospital rate in epilepsy, particularly in children and adults. However, there was no change in SE patients.
Probabilistic residual deformation prediction model for rectangular reinforced concrete columns
Authors: Lee Chang Seok , Jeon Jong‐Su
Published: April 2022

This paper presents a probabilistic residual deformation prediction model for estimating the nonlinear response and demolition probability of reinforced concrete structures. An empirical relation between the residual deformation and column physical parameters was formulated from experimental observations. The accuracy of the proposed model was compared to those of three deterministic models available in the literature. The proposed model better represented the central tendency of the observed residual deformations than the prediction of the deterministic models. Nonlinear dynamic analyses using 44 far‐field ground motions on a modern four‐story reinforced concrete building frame are conducted to investigate discrepancies in demolition probability associated with different residual deformation models. The difference between the medians of demolition fragility predicted by the deterministic and probabilistic models was 20–50%, indicating that the probabilistic model has a significantly higher dispersion than that of the deterministic models.
Multipower‐level Q‐learning algorithm for random access in nonorthogonal multiple access massive machine‐type communications systems
Authors: Maciel Ferreira Silva Giovanni , Abrão Taufik
Published: April 2022

The massive machine‐type communications (mMTC) service will be part of new services planned to integrate the beyond fifth generation of wireless communication. In mMTC, thousands of devices sporadically access available resource blocks on the network. In this scenario, the massive random access problem arises when two or more devices collide when selecting the same resource block. There are several techniques to deal with this problem. One of them deploys ‐learning (QL), in which devices store in their ‐table the rewards sent by the central node that indicate the quality of the transmission performed. The device learns which are the best resource blocks to select and transmit in order to avoid collisions. We propose a multipower‐level QL (MPL‐QL) algorithm that uses nonorthogonal multiple access (NOMA) transmit scheme to generate transmission power diversity and allow accommodate more than one device in the same time‐slot as long as the signal‐to‐interference‐plus‐noise ratio (SINR) exceeds a threshold value. The numerical results reveal that the best performance‐complexity trade‐off is obtained by using a higher number of power levels, typically eight levels. The proposed MPL‐QL can deliver better throughput and lower latency when compared to other recent QL‐based algorithms found in the literature.
Insight into the protein degradation during the broad bean fermentation process
Authors: Lin Hongbin , Zhou Binbin , Zhao Jianhua , Liao Shiqi , Han Jinlin , Fang Jiaxing , Liu Ping , Ding Wenwu , Che Zhenming , Xu Min
Published: April 2022

Broad bean fermentation is of vital importance in PixianDouban (PXDB) production, as well as a key process for microorganisms to degrade protein, which lays the foundation for the formation of PXDB flavor. In this study, two fungi and bacteria were screened, and their morphology, molecular biology, growth, and enzyme production characteristics were analyzed, and then they were applied to the broad bean fermentation simulation system. The protein, peptide, amino acid, amino nitrogen, and sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) in the system were evaluated. The results showed that the four microorganisms were Aspergillus oryzae, Aspergillus jensenii, Staphylococcus gallinarum, and Enterobacter hormaeche. Aspergillus oryzae had the highest protease activity at pH 7.0, while the other three strains had better enzyme activity stability under neutral acidic conditions. And the total protein (F1 and F2 were 18.32 g/100 g, 19.15 g/100 g, respectively), peptides (11.79 ± 0.04 mg/g and 12.06 ± 0.04 mg/g), and amino acids (55.12 ± 2.78 mg/g and 54.11 ± 1.97 mg/g) of the fungus experimental groups (F) were higher than the bacterial experimental groups (B). In addition, the enzyme system produced by fungi exhibited a stronger ability for albumin (20 kDa) and glutenin (<30 kDa) deterioration in neutral conditions, while the bacterial enzyme system was more efficient in degrading albumin (<30 kDa) and glutenin (20–30 kDa) in acidic conditions, as indicated by SDS‐PAGE. These findings showed that both bacteria and fungi played an important role in the degradation of protein in different fermentation stages of broad bean fermentation.

Practical applications

There is a lack of comprehensive understanding of the protein composition and protein degradation mechanism of broad beans in the fermentation stage of PXDB. This research work explored the differences in the degradation of PXDB fermented protein by different microorganisms, and provided a theoretical basis for optimizing the production of PXDB and improving the quality of PXDB.
Use of BIM for the optimized operation of road tunnels: Modelling approach, information requirements, and exemplary implementation
Authors: Vollmann Goetz , Stepien Marcel , Riepe Werner , König Markus , Lehan Anne , Thewes Markus , Wahl Hendrik
Published: April 2022

In the operating phase of a road tunnel, not only maintaining or increasing the availability in the network but the economic optimization regarding the life cycle costs of the structure are also important priorities. A consistent application of the Building Information Modelling (BIM) methodology can theoretically make a useful and targeted contribution, as it provides a complete digital model of the structure with all installed elements and the information required for the operator tasks. In the research project FE https://doi.org/15.0623/2016/RRB ”Building Information Modeling (BIM) in Tunneling,“ the Institute of Tunneling and Construction Management and the Institute of Computing in Engineering (both Ruhr University Bochum) in cooperation with BUNG Ingenieure AG developed the basics for a BIM‐based operating model of road tunnels with funding from the Federal Highway Research Institute commissioned by the Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure. In the article, the results of the research are presented on the basis of specific use cases of a BIM‐based operation and maintenance management.
Potential applications of machine learning for BIM in tunnelling
Authors: Erharter Georg H. , Weil Jonas , Tschuchnigg Franz , Marcher Thomas
Published: April 2022

Machine Learning (ML) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) are two topics that are part of a revolutionizing transformation in the construction industry – commonly referred to as digitalization. Being part of the research for artificial intelligence (AI), most of today's ML applications deal with computational processes that try to make sense of data. Automatic rockmass behaviour classification based on tunnel boring machine (TBM) data or tunnel construction site surveillance via closed‐circuit television (CCTV) analysis is an example for applications of ML in tunnelling. BIM describes a new type of planning, including model‐based collaboration and information exchange, which requires well‐organized storage and handling of data – a precondition and valuable source for any automated analysis method like ML. While other sectors of the construction industry have implemented BIM systems successfully, the development in underground engineering is currently at its beginning with multiple actors working towards common standards for semantics, data exchange formats, etc. This article seeks to combine the two fields by giving an overview of the two topics and then points out four potential fields of applications: semantic enrichment and labelling, automation of technical processes, knowledge derivation and online data analysis.
Visual and hearing impairment and their association with depression among middle‐aged and older individuals in India: Evidence from a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Meher Trupti , Gharge Shivani
Published: April 2022

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and associated factors of visual and hearing impairment as well as to investigate their association with depression among individuals aged 45 and above in India.

Methods

The study utilized data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) Wave 1, (2017‐18). The total sample size of this study was 65,562 individuals aged 45 and above. Descriptive statistics along with bivariate and multivariable analyses were performed to fulfill the objectives.

Results

The prevalence of visual impairment in the study population was 32.1 percent, whereas the prevalence of self‐reported hearing impairment was 6.9 percent. In the logistic regression models, both visual impairment [Adjusted odds ratio (AOR)‐1.06; 95% Confidence interval (CI):0.99‐1.14] as well as hearing impairment [AOR‐1.25; 95% CI:1.11‐1.41] were found to be significantly associated with depression. Moreover, individuals with a single impairment were 8 percent [AOR‐1.08; 95% CI: 1.01‐1.16] and individuals with dual impairment were 36 percent [AOR‐1.36; 95% CI:1.13‐1.65] significantly more likely to have depression.

Conclusion

Individuals with sensory impairment were more likely to suffer from depression and the risk was significantly higher among individuals with dual impairment. Therefore, clinicians dealing with individuals with sensory impairments must be aware of the likelihood of comorbid depression in order to provide timely screening and treatment.
Regulation of renal calbindin expression during cisplatin‐induced kidney injury
Authors: George Blessy , Szilagyi John T. , Joy Melanie S. , Aleksunes Lauren M.
Published: April 2022

Since the discovery of calbindin release into the urine during renal injury, there has been growing interest in the utility of this protein as a biomarker of nephrotoxicity. However, little is known about the intrarenal regulation of the release and expression of this calcium‐regulating protein during kidney injury. We sought to characterize the time‐dependent expression and excretion of the protein calbindin in the distal tubule in comparison to kidney injury molecule‐1 (Kim‐1), a protein in the proximal tubule, in mice treated with cisplatin. Urine, blood, and kidneys were collected from male C57BL/6 mice treated with vehicle or cisplatin (20 mg/kg ip). Urinary concentrations of calbindin and Kim‐1 were elevated by 11.6‐fold and 2.5‐fold, respectively, within 2 days after cisplatin. Circulating creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels increased in cisplatin‐treated mice by 3 days, confirming the development of acute kidney injury. Time‐dependent decreases in intrarenal calbindin protein were observed on Days 3 and 4 and a 200‐fold upregulation of calbindin (CALB1) and KIM‐1 messenger RNAs (mRNAs) was observed on Day 3. These data suggest that early loss of calbindin protein into the urine along with declines in renal calbindin levels initiates a compensatory induction of mRNA expression at later time points (Days 3 and 4). Understanding the regulation of calbindin during cisplatin nephrotoxicity further enhances its utility as a potential urinary biomarker of kidney damage. The results of the current study support the combined use of a proximal (Kim‐1) and distal tubule (calbindin) marker to phenotype acute kidney injury secondary to cisplatin administration.
Hydrogen storage on flat land materials, opportunities, and challenges: A review study
Authors: Fatima Kaneez , Soomro Amir Mahmood , Rafique Muhammad , Kumar Mahesh
Published: April 2022

Currently, hydrogen (H) is considered as a promising source of energy for future demands. Although, significant work is dedicated to the H production, but its storage is still a substantial challenge. Through this review report, it can be postulated that chemical storage is a suitable technique as compared to physical storage, since in physical storage, it requires higher temperature and pressure for hydrogen storage, whereas smaller amount of temperature and pressure is needed during the chemical process. Furthermore, a detailed review was carried out for hydrogen storage on graphene systems, apart from graphene few novel 2D systems were also studied regarding their application in hydrogen storage. Through detailed survey, it was observed that boron as a surface activating agent for various 2D sheets provides significant H wt% as compared to other impurity atoms used for various 2D sheets. Hence, it can be postulated that boron‐doped systems can be good hydrogen storage agents. Further, transition metal di‐chalcogenides (TMDCs) sheets are rarely used as host sheets for H storage, whereas TM impurities are considered for 2D sheets activation. In addition to above, the advantages and disadvantages of the different 2D systems for hydrogen storage are discussed and compared in a detailed manner.
DNA testing for sickle cell anemia in Africa: Implementation choices for the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Ngole Mamy , Race Valerie , Mbayabo Gloire , Lumbala Paul , Songo Cathy , Lukusa Prosper Tshilobo , Devriendt Koenraad , Matthijs Gert , Lumaka Aimé
Published: April 2022

Background

Hemoglobin‐based tests form the reference diagnostic test for SCA. In limited resource countries, these tests face limitations including cost, low sensitivity due to recurrent transfusions in endemic malaria region, and interference from fetal hemoglobin in neonatal diagnostic. This study aimed at adapting DNA‐based SCA tests to limited resource countries and evaluating the economic benefit.

Methods

338 participants were recruited in the Democratic Republic of Congo, sorted in 3 cohorts based on venous blood, umbilical cord blood (UCB) and buccal swab sampling. RFLP was performed to identify mutated allele. The feasibility and technical validity of this RFLP was evaluated for specimens collected on DBS cards and on EDTA tubes. RFLP on DBS stored at room temperature was regularly repeated to assess sample conservation. Finally, the cost analysis was performed.

Results

DBS cards yielded identical results to extracted DNA. Repeated testing returned the same result after four years. The DBS‐based test performed on UCB or on buccal swab had a sensitivity and a precision of 100%. Cost comparison indicated that our approach costs half price of the widely used isoelectrofocussing of hemoglobin.

Conclusion

The implemented DNA‐based test approach overcomes the limitations faced by hemoglobin‐based tests, while being more affordable. We propose to implement the RFLP test as a first line diagnostic test after transfusion and as second tiers for newborn screening. However, users should be aware that this test is unable to differentiate HbC from HbS or identify other point mutation of gene deletion of HBB gene.
Beneficial effects of melatonin on liver fibrosis: A systematic review of current biological evidence
Authors: San‐Miguel Beatriz , Fernández‐Palanca Paula , Mauriz José L. , Tuñón María J. , González‐Gallego Javier
Published: April 2022

Hepatic fibrosis is a reversible response to either acute or chronic cellular injury from a wide variety of etiologies, characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix resulting in liver dysfunction and cirrhosis. Melatonin (N‐acetyl‐5‐methoxytryptamine), the main product secreted by the pineal gland, is a multitasking indolamine with important physiological functions such as anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant actions, modulation of circadian rhythms, and immune system enhancement. Among the numerous biological activities of melatonin, its antifibrotic effects have received increasingly more attention. In this study, we performed a systematic review of publications of the last 10 years evaluating the mechanisms of action of melatonin against liver fibrosis. The study protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42022304744). Literature research was performed employing PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (WOS) databases, and after screening, 29 articles were included. Results from the selected studies provided denoted the useful actions of melatonin on the development, progression, and evolution of liver fibrosis. Melatonin antifibrotic effects in the liver involved the reduction of profibrogenic markers and modulation of several cellular processes and molecular pathways, mainly acting as an antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory agent. In addition, the indolamine influenced different molecular processes, such as hepatocyte apoptosis, modulation of autophagy and mitophagy, restoration of circadian rhythms, and modulation of microRNAs, among others. Although some limitations have been found regarding variability in the study design, the findings here summarized display the potential role of melatonin in ameliorating the development of liver fibrosis and its possible progression to liver cirrhosis and hepatocarcinoma.
Crowdsourcing the identification of studies for COVID‐19‐related Cochrane Rapid Reviews
Authors: Noel‐Storr Anna , Gartlehner Gerald , Dooley Gordon , Persad Emma , Nussbaumer‐Streit Barbara
Published: April 2022

Background

Utilisation of crowdsourcing within evidence synthesis has increased over the last decade. Crowdsourcing platform Cochrane Crowd has engaged a global community of 22,000 people from 170 countries. The COVID‐19 pandemic presented an opportunity to engage the community and keep up with the exponential output of COVID‐19 research.

Aims

To test whether a crowd could accurately assess study eligibility for reviews under time constraints. Outcome measures: time taken to complete each task, time to produce required training modules, crowd sensitivity, specificity and crowd consensus.

Methods

We created four crowd tasks, corresponding to four Cochrane COVID‐19 Rapid Reviews. The search results of each were uploaded and an interactive training module was developed for each task. Contributors who had participated in another COVID‐19 task were invited to participate. Each task was live for 48‐h. The final inclusion and exclusion decisions made by the core author team were used as the reference standard.

Results

Across all four reviews 14,299 records were screened by 101 crowd contributors. The crowd completed each screening task within 48‐h for three reviews and in 52 h for one. Sensitivity ranged from 94% to 100%. Four studies, out of a total of 109, were incorrectly rejected by the crowd. However, their absence ultimately would not have altered the conclusions of the reviews. Crowd consensus ranged from 71% to 92% across the four reviews.

Conclusion

Crowdsourcing can play a valuable role in study identification and offers willing contributors the opportunity to help identify COVID‐19 research for rapid evidence syntheses.
Soil salinity inversion in coastal cotton growing areas: An integration method using satellite‐ground spectral fusion and satellite‐UAV collaboration
Authors: Qi Guanghui , Chang Chunyan , Yang Wei , Zhao Gengxing
Published: April 2022

Soil salinity is a crucial factor in agriculture, rising salinity undermines cotton (Gossypium spp.) production in coastal areas of China and damages crops in other countries. In this study, we propose an effective integration method using satellite‐ground spectral fusion and satellite‐unmanned arial vehicle (UAV) collaboration for soil salinity monitoring in cotton growing areas. Firstly, an extreme learning machine (ELM), random forest (RF), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) models were constructed based on UAV images from test areas. The optimal model was selected for soil salinity inversion. Meanwhile, ground imaging hyperspectrum and SENTINEL‐2A multispectral images were differentially fused by nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF). Then, taking the inversion results of UAV as the training sample to build convolutional neural network (CNN) model of the fused SENTINEL‐2A, the soil salinity distribution map of cotton fields in the study area was obtained by inversion, and the satellite‐UAV‐ground integrated inversion of soil salinity in coastal cotton fields was realized. The results showed that the spectrum after satellite‐ground fusion was closer to the original ground hyperspectrum, the fusion improved the correlation between spectrum and soil salinity, and UAV inversion data possessed great potential for the reference data of satellite inversion. The soil salinity obtained by satellite‐UAV‐ground integration approach was highly consistent with the measured salinity in the study area (R2 = 0.805), and the integration approach is suitable for soil salinity inversion in the cotton seedling stage in the coastal area. The satellite‐UAV‐ground integration approach proposed in this study fully tap the advantages of remote sensing data from different platforms and improved the ability to obtain soil salinisation information in large‐scale quantitatively, accurately, and quickly.
Low‐rank inversion reconstruction for through‐plane accelerated radial MR fingerprinting applied to relaxometry at 0.35 T
Authors: Mickevicius Nikolai J. , Glide‐Hurst Carri K.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To reduce scan time, methods to accelerate phase‐encoded/non‐Cartesian MR fingerprinting (MRF) acquisitions for variable density spiral acquisitions have recently been developed. These methods are not applicable to MRF acquisitions, wherein a single k‐space spoke is acquired per frame. Therefore, we propose a low‐rank inversion method to resolve MRF contrast dynamics from through‐plane accelerated Cartesian/radial measurements applied to quantitative relaxation‐time mapping on a 0.35T system.

Methods

An algorithm was implemented to reconstruct through‐plane aliased low‐rank images describing the contrast dynamics occurring because of the transient‐state MRF acquisition. T1 and T2 times from accelerated acquisitions were compared with those from unaccelerated linear reconstructions in a standardized system phantom and within in vivo brain and prostate experiments on a hybrid 0.35T MRI/linear accelerator.

Results

No significant differences between T1 and T2 times for the accelerated reconstructions were observed compared to fully sampled acquisitions (p = 0.41 and p = 0.36, respectively). The mean absolute errors in T1 and T2 were 5.6% and 2.9%, respectively, between the full and accelerated acquisitions. The SDs in T1 and T2 decreased with the advanced accelerated reconstruction compared with the unaccelerated reconstruction (p = 0.02 and p = 0.03, respectively). The quality of the T1 and T2 maps generated with the proposed approach are comparable to those obtained using the unaccelerated data sets.

Conclusions

Through‐plane accelerated MRF with radial k‐space coverage was demonstrated at a low field strength of 0.35 T. This method enabled 3D T1 and T2 mapping at 0.35 T with a 3‐min scan.
What motivates Czech social entrepreneurs? A qualitative study from an unfavorable social entrepreneurship environment
Authors: Sadílek Tomáš , Kročil Ondřej , Müller Michal
Published: April 2022

Social entrepreneurship is a concept that has significant benefits for society. To shape the appropriate conditions for the development of this generally beneficial phenomenon, we need to ask what motivates entrepreneurs to give priority to social entrepreneurship over commercial entrepreneurship. Although several studies are looking at the motivations of social entrepreneurs, our current knowledge of this issue is limited in two respects. Most research has focused only on the motivations for starting social entrepreneurship. Another is that research on motivation has been mostly conducted in countries where the social entrepreneurship environment is friendly, which has led to a greater focus on the personality of entrepreneurs at the expense of the social context. Through a qualitative approach, this study aims to explore motivation to become a social entrepreneur and motivation to keep being a social entrepreneur in the unfavorable conditions of the Czech social entrepreneurial environment. The summary results of a qualitative study among 27 entrepreneurs supported by the presentation of five mini‐stories describe how social entrepreneurs face obstacles and how they perceive the gradual changes in society that give them the motivation to stay in social entrepreneurship. We also identify eight motives for becoming a social entrepreneur and show how the motives intersect.
Trajectories and the perception of classical motion in the free propagation of wave packets
Authors: Briggs John S.
Published: April 2022

The free propagation in time of a normalisable wave packet is the oldest problem of continuum quantum mechanics. Its motion from microscopic to macroscopic distance is the way in which most quantum systems are detected experimentally. Although much studied and analysed since 1927 and presented in many textbooks, here the problem is re‐appraised from the standpoint of semi‐classical mechanics. Particular aspects are the emergence of deterministic trajectories of particles emanating from a region of atomic dimension and the interpretation of the wave function as describing a single particle or an ensemble of identical particles. Of possible wave packets, that of Gaussian form is most studied due to the simple exact form of the time‐dependent solution in real and in momentum space. Furthermore, this form is important in laser optics. Here the equivalence of the time‐dependent Schrödinger equation to the paraxial equation for the propagation of light is demonstrated explicitly. This parallel helps to understand the relevance of trajectory concepts and the conditions necessary for the perception of quantum motion as classical.

Key Points

The paper addresses a problem of fundamental quantum mechanics, important in both physics and chemistry.

Within physics, the subject is relevant to the disciplines of both quantum mechanics and classical optics.

The matter presented is topical also for researchers in the history and philosophy of physics.
Relationships of sleep traits with prostate cancer risk: A prospective study of 213,999 UK Biobank participants
Authors: Lv Xiaoyan , Li Yuxin , Li Rong , Guan Xiangyun , Li Li , Li Junli , Si Shucheng , Ji Xiaokang , Cao Yingjuan , Xue Fuzhong
Published: April 2022

Background

The effect of sleep on the occurrence of prostate cancer (PCa) remains unclear. This study explored the influence of sleep traits on the incidence of PCa using a UK Biobank cohort study.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, 213,999 individuals free of PCa at recruitment from UK Biobank were included. Missing data were imputed using multiple imputation by chained equations. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate the adjusted hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for PCa (6747 incident cases) across seven sleep traits (sleep duration, chronotype, insomnia, snoring, nap, difficulty to get up in the morning, and daytime sleepiness). In addition, we newly created a healthy sleep quality score according to sleep traits to assess the impact of the overall status of night and daytime sleep on PCa development. E values were used to assess unmeasured confounding.

Results

We identified 6747 incident cases, of which 344 died from PCa. Participants who usually suffered from insomnia had a higher risk of PCa (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04–1.19, E value: 1.46). Finding it fairly easy to get up in the morning was also positively associated with PCa (HR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.04–1.15, E value: 1.40). Usually having a nap was associated with a lower risk of PCa (HR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.83–0.99, E value: 1.42).

Conclusions

Fairly easy to get up in the morning and usually experiencing insomnia were associated with an increased incidence of PCa. Moreover, usually having a nap was associated with a lower risk of PCa. Therefore, sleep behaviors are modifiable risk factors that may have a potential impact on PCa risk.
Quaternary Ammonium (QA) N‐Chloramines: Chemical Synthesis and Study on Structure Bactericidal Activity Relationship
Authors: Li Lingdong , Zhang Guangqing , Niu Ruiting , Xia Zhilin
Published: April 2022

In view of pathogen spread and contaminations, this work describes chemical synthesis of two series of quaternary ammonium (QA) N‐chloramines to conduct the structure‐bactericidal activity relationship study. Preliminary antibacterial data showed that the structural methylene linker length is crucial to the overall bactericidal activity: 14/15/20 exerted the top three biocidal efficacy with the order of 14>15>20, probably due to varied specific charge and varied dispersion tendency on bacterium surface. In addition, the presence of intact long alkyl chains (e. g. for 21∼22) enables superior bactericidal activity under circumstances that the specific charge remains constant. Our study provided highly efficacious N‐chloramine biocides as well as the valuable design reference for future work.
A Comparative Evaluation of Sustained Release of Chlorphenamine Based on a Nanocomposite of Chitosan, Pectin and Montmorillonite
Authors: Khushbu  , Vaid Vasudha , Kaur Kuljit , Panwar Ankush , Devi Anupama , Bansal Anshul , Jindal Rajeev
Published: April 2022

The scenario of the current investigation is to prepare an inclusion complex (IC) of chlorphenamine (CPM) and montmorillonite (MONT) by microwave method for sustained drug delivery system and to analyze the comparison of inclusion complex with direct loading of free drug. A nanocomposite was synthesized from chitosan (CH), pectin (PC) by incorporating montmorillonite (MONT). The confirmation of inclusion complex formation and nanocomposite was characterized by FTIR, XRD, and FESEM‐EDS. Drug release study from chitosan, pectin nanocomposite containing free CPM and inclusion complex of CPM: MONT were investigated under different pH 2, 7 and 7.4 at 37 °C. The concentration of drug release from inclusion complex loaded nanocomposite was found to be 97.4 % in 22 hours. Four different kinetic models were studied to check the real mechanism involved in drug release. In all cases, the best fitted kinetic model for CPM release from the inclusion complex loaded nanocomposite was Peppas‐Sahlin and Korsmeyer Peppas, implying that diffusion and relaxation phenomena were responsible for the drug release. Diffusion phenomena have more contribution than relaxation is confirmed by the Peppas‐Sahlin equation. Montmorillonite is responsible for the sustained drug release because of host‐guest interactions. Montmorillonite has a layered structure that allows it to intercalate the drug molecule into its cavity, resulting in sustained chlorphenamine release.
Regioselective Hydrogenation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Olefins Catalyzed by Magnesium‐Activated Chromium Complexes
Authors: Han Bo , Zhang Miaomiao , Jiao Hongmei , Chen Rong , Ma Haojie , Li Ran , Wang Jijiang , Zhang Yuqi
Published: April 2022

Replacing precious metals with the first‐row transition metals having abundant earth reserves in organic synthesis is in line with the sustainable development of chemistry. In this study, the regioselective hydrogenation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and olefins had been simply realized with a low‐valent Cr‐catalyst from CrCl2 and diketimine, which was in situ reduced by magnesium. Results showed that unilateral cyclic hydrogenation of many PAHs could be achieved with this catalyst under mild conditions, which was a convenient and efficient method for the synthesis of partially saturated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
A Novel Enzyme‐Free Biosensor for Hydrogen Peroxide Based on Black Phosphorus @Au‐Ag Nanohybrids
Authors: Jian Lishan , Fu Hanping , Zhao Ling , Zeng Yating , Liu Liran , Feng Li , Zhang Tianxiang , Liang Qingshuang , Xiao Xiufeng
Published: April 2022

In this work, a novel BP@Au−Ag nanohybrid is fabricated by a facile ultrasonic method. A glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with these nanohybrids is found to be a viable enzyme‐free sensor for H2O2 detection. The deposition of Au nanoparticles on black phosphorus (BP) nanosheets enhances the stability of the electrode. Subsequent decoration of silver nanoparticles further dramatically improves the electrochemical performance owing to the synergetic effect. The as‐prepared BP@Au−Ag/GCE displays excellent peak current response for H2O2 reduction with a wide linear range (0.005–2.36 mM), low detection limit (1.09 μM), good stability, and negligible interference. The present work provides a new avenue for exploring novel BP‐based enzyme‐free biosensors.
The Constitution of geistige Gegenstände in Carnap’s Aufbau and the Importance of Hans Freyer
Authors: Tuboly Adam Tamas
Published: April 2022

The aim of this paper is twofold: to consider Rudolf Carnap’s ideas about the so-called geistige Gegenstände – i.e., the products of the human mind – in his Der logische Aufbau der Welt (1928) and to discuss these ideas in the context of Hans Freyer’s philosophy. I will argue that if one takes a look at Hans Freyer’s Theorie des Objektiven Geistes (1923) and Carnap’s Aufbau, the similarities are quite striking. Taking into account their shared experiences in the German Youth Movement (Jugendbewegung) and their continuous friendship and discussions from the early 1910s until 1933, these similarities seem to be more than merely superficial or accidental. Consequently, when one considers the impact of Freyer and the so-called Dilthey School on Carnap, then it becomes clear that the German roots of Carnap’s Aufbau go much deeper than is commonly acknowledged.
Einleitung zu Rudolf Carnap, „Religion und Kirche“ und „An Pastor LeSeur“
Authors: Carus André W.
Published: April 2022

Die beiden Texte, die hier erstmalig abgedruckt werden, stammen aus Rudolf Carnaps Studien- und Kriegsjahren, die bis jetzt wenig erforscht worden sind. Lediglich über seine politische Entwicklung gegen Ende des Ersten Weltkriegs, im Jahre 1918, sind wir inzwischen etwas weniger im Dunklen. Seine erste Veröffentlichung, eine Besprechung zweier Bücher über mögliche Formen eines Staaten- beziehungsweise Völkerbundes, erscheint demnächst im ersten Band der Carnap Gesamtausgabe. Eine weitere, viel umfassendere „politische Stellungnahme“, wie er sie nannte, die in derselben Zeitschrift am Vorabend der Revolution 1918 erscheinen sollte, um dann aber von den sich überstürzenden Ereignissen überholt zu werden, nämlich der Aufsatz „Deutschlands Niederlage: Sinnloses Schicksal oder Schuld?“, erscheint ebenfalls im vorliegenden Band. Meike Werner hat den Hintergrund dieser ganzen Phase in Carnaps Entwicklung nun beleuchtet, durch ihre Untersuchung zu Carnaps eigenen Politischen Rundbriefen. Das waren kommentierte Sammlungen von unter anderem Zeitungsausschnitten der ausländischen Presse, die er im Freundeskreis umlaufen ließ, worauf seine militärischen Vorgesetzten kurz vor der Revolution aufmerksam wurden. Dank des Regimewechsels folgten dieser Aufdeckung aber keine Strafmaßnahmen gegen Carnap. Die insgesamt neun Politischen Rundbriefe werden im geplanten ersten Band der Carnap-Korrespondenzen abgedruckt.
Abbildungen
Authors: Werner Meike G.
Published: April 2022

Bildunterschriften
Ingrid Belke (1935–2017). Ein persönlicher Nachruf
Authors: Stadler Friedrich
Published: April 2022

Ingrid Belke (geb. 11.02.1935 in Falkensee/Berlin – gest. 24.09.2017 in Stuttgart) war ein einzigartiger und außergewöhnlicher Mensch, als Persönlichkeit und als Wissenschaftlerin. Als ich sie im Zusammenhang mit der Veröffentlichung ihrer pionierhaften Doktorarbeit über Josef Popper-Lynkeus und die Reformbewegung des Wiener Bürgertums (1978) kennengelernt habe, war ich von ihrer Offenheit, Gelehrsamkeit und aufgeklärten Gesinnung sofort beeindruckt. Wir schlossen schnell persönliche Freundschaft und haben uns seitdem regelmäßig in zahlreichen Gesprächen und Briefen ausgetauscht. Diese anregenden Begegnungen bezogen sich auf die gemeinsamen Interessen wie die Wiener Moderne, Karl Popper und die österreichische Philosophie, die Zeitgeschichtsschreibung, nicht zuletzt auf das durchgehende Thema von Emigration und Exil. Selbstverständlich hat Inge an unserem großen Symposium „Vertriebene Vernunft“ (1987) teilgenommen und sich mehrmals an den Veranstaltungen des Instituts Wiener Kreis mit Wort und Schrift bis zum Ende ihres Lebens nachhaltig beteiligt. Zuletzt tat sie dies eindrucksvoll an der Konferenz „Logischer Empirismus, Lebensreform und die Deutsche Jugendbewegung“ im Jahre 2016 mit ihrem wohl letzten Vortrag, nämlich über Friedrich Jodl (1894–1914), den deutsch-österreichischen Philosophen des Monismus und der Ethischen Bewegung. Dieser Vortragstext ist nun in gekürzter Fassung im vorliegenden Band als eine Art geistiges Vermächtnis der Autorin abgedruckt. Der Text spiegelt ihre lebenslange Beschäftigung mit der Wiener Kulturbewegung der Jahrhundertwende um 1900 und schließt einen thematischen Kreis ihrer radikal aufgeklärten Gesinnung seit ihrer Dissertation. Dieses Interesse an Wien verband Inge immer auch mit ihren persönlichen Kontakten, zum Beispiel mit dem Schriftsteller-Paar Elisabeth Freundlich und Günther Anders, oder mit dem Volksbildner und kurzzeitigen Kulturpolitiker Viktor Matejka, mit dem wir beide befreundet waren. Karl Popper, mit dem Inge lange eng verbunden war und dessen Autobiographie sie mitübersetzte, hatte sie eingeladen, seine Biographie zu schreiben, was sie aber nach längerem Zögern ablehnte. Der entsprechende Briefwechsel im Popper-Nachlass stellt eine beeindruckende Quelle für diese persönliche und geistige Zusammenarbeit dar.
Sprache transnational: Rudolf Carnap und die Esperantobewegung
Authors: Lins Ulrich
Published: April 2022

Rudolf Carnap hatte sich in seiner Jugend für Esperanto begeistert. Er erwähnt dies in seiner 1963 erschienenen Autobiographie. Genaueres wissen wir erst, seitdem seine Tagebücher und Teile der Korespondenz zugänglich geworden sind. Kaum hatte er die Sprache gelernt, nahm er 1908 in Dresden am Vierten Esperanto-Weltkongress teil. Es folgte die Teilnahme an drei weiteren Kongressen: Helsinki 1922, Wien 1924 und Genf 1925. Obwohl ihn danach vor allem die Sprachplanung in der symbolischen Logik beschäftigte, bewahrte er sich sein Interesse an internationalen Plansprachen, vor allem an Esperanto. Versuchen, etwa von Giuseppe Peano oder C.K. Ogden, ihn in ein anderes Lager zu ziehen, widerstand er. Zwar musste er spätestens nach dem Zweiten Weltkrieg einsehen, dass Esperanto wenig Aussicht hatte, sich weltweit durchzusetzen, aber er fühlte sich ihm zeitlebens verbunden. Carnap hob die sprachliche Kraft des Esperanto hervor und den Nutzen und persönlichen Gewinn, den sein Gebrauch bereitete. Esperanto war für ihn Bestandteil seines Vertrauens auf eine friedliche, demokratische Welt. Bis zum Lebensende wirkte nach, was Ludwig Lazarus Zamenhof, der Begründer des Esperanto, in seiner Dresdner Kongressrede beschworen hatte: die Annäherung der Menschen mithilfe einer Sprache, die an keine Nation gebunden ist.
Hans Reichenbach and the Freistudentenschaft: School Reform, Pedagogy, and Freedom
Authors: Padovani Flavia
Published: April 2022

Like many of his contemporary students, Hans Reichenbach was a member of the Freistudentenschaft. This movement strongly defended the idea of moral self-determination and intellectual autonomy of the individual, and aimed at reforming the German university system that the Free Students regarded as no longer adequate to reflect their needs. As a Free Student, Reichenbach stood against any form of dogmatism, be it scholastic, religious, philosophical, political, or institutional. It is against this background that he developed the ideals that would ultimately provide the basis for his philosophical thought, and to which he would remain faithful until the end of his life.

The aim of this paper is to provide a brief overview of Reichenbach’s experience as a Free Student and its impact on his later work. I will consider archival materials that significantly epitomise his early involvement within the German Youth Movement, specifically in relation to: his political partaking in the university reform, which extends until 1919; a psychological research project he carried out around 1912–1913; and his position on the war, which emerges in his 1915 correspondence with the education reformer Gustav Wyneken.