bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteome and secretome analysis of pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Li Xiang , Liu Hui , Dun Matthew D. , Faulkner Sam , Liu Xiaoming , Jiang Chen Chen , Hondermarck Hubert
Published: April 2022

Pancreatic cancer is a lethal malignancy and no screening biomarker or targeted therapy is currently available. Here, we performed a shotgun proteomic label‐free quantification (LFQ) to define protein changes in the cellular proteome and secretome of four pancreatic cancer cell lines (PANC1, Paca44, Paca2, and BXPC3) versus normal human pancreatic ductal epithelial cells (HPDE). In the cellular proteome and secretome, 149 and 43 proteins were dysregulated in the most cancer cell lines, respectively. Using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), the most dysregulated signaling pathways in pancreatic cancer cells included the activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (AKT), extracellular regulated kinase (ERK), and the deactivation of type‐I interferon (IFN) pathways, which could promote cancer cell progression and decrease antitumor immunity. Parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) mass spectrometry was used to confirm the changes of seven regulated proteins quantified by LFQ: EGFR, growth/differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), protein‐glutamine gamma‐glutamyltransferase 2 (TGM2), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), interferon‐induced GTP‐binding protein Mx1 (MX1), signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1), and serpin B5 (SERPINB5). Together, this proteomic analysis highlights protein changes associated with pancreatic cancer cells that should be further investigated as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets.
Longitudinal changes in lung function in very prematurely born young people receiving high‐frequency oscillation or conventional ventilation from birth
Authors: Bisquera Alessandra , Harris Christopher , Lunt Alan , Zivanovic Sanja , Marlow Neil , Calvert Sandy , Greenough Anne , Peacock Janet L.
Published: April 2022

Objective

To examine changes in lung function over time in extremely prematurely born adolescents.

Working Hypothesis

Changes in lung function during adolescence would vary by ventilation mode immediately after birth.

Study Design

Longitudinal follow‐up study.

Patient Subject Selection

Participants from the United Kingdom Oscillation Study who were randomized at birth to high‐frequency oscillation (HFO) or conventional ventilation (CV) were assessed at 11–14 years (n = 319) and at 16–19 years (n = 159).

Methodology

Forced expiratory flow (FEF), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and lung volumes including functional residual capacity (FRC) were reported as z‐scores. The diffusion capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) was measured. Lung function trajectories were compared by mode of ventilation using mixed models. Changes in z‐scores were scaled to 5‐year average follow‐up.

Results

There were significant changes in the mean FEF75, FEF50, FEF25, FEV1, FVC, and DLCO z‐scores within the CV and HFO cohorts, but no significant differences in the changes between the two groups. The mean FRC z‐score increased in both groups, with an average change of greater than one z‐score. The mean FEV1/FVC z‐score increased significantly in the CV group, but not in the HFO group (difference in slopes: p = 0.02). Across the population, deterioration in lung function was associated with male sex, white ethnicity, lower gestational age at birth, postnatal corticosteroids, oxygen dependency at 36 weeks postmenstrual age, and lower birth weight, but not ventilation mode.

Conclusions

There was little evidence that the mode of ventilation affected changes in lung function over time.
Behavioural regulator and molecular reception of a double‐edge‐sword hunter beetle
Authors: Chen Zeng‐Liang , Huang Cong , Li Xi‐Sheng , Li Guo‐Cheng , Yu Ting‐Hong , Fu Guan‐Jun , Zhang Xue , Song Ce , Bai Peng‐Hua , Cao Li , Qian Wan‐Qiang , Wan Fang‐Hao , Han Ri‐Chou , Tang Rui
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

The black carabid beetle Calosoma maximoviczi is a successful predator that serves as both a beneficial insect and a severe threat to economic herbivores. Its hunting technique relies heavily on olfaction, but the underlying mechanism has not been studied. Here, we report the electrophysiological, ecological and molecular traits of bioactive components identified from a comprehensive panel of natural odorants in the beetle–prey–plant system. The aim of this work was to investigate olfactory perceptions and their influence on the behaviours of C. maximoviczi.

RESULTS

Among the 200 identified volatiles, 18 were concentrated in beetle and prey samples, and 14 were concentrated in plants. Insect feeding damage to plants led to a shift in the emission fingerprint. Twelve volatiles were selected using successive electrophysiological tests. Field trials showed that significant sex differences existed when trapping with a single chemical or chemical mixture. Expression profiles indicated that sex‐biased catches were related to the expression of 15 annotated CmaxOBPs and 40 CmaxORs across 12 chemosensory organs. In silico evaluations were conducted with 16 CmaxORs using modelling and docking. Better recognition was predicted for the pairs CmaxOR5–(Z)‐3‐hexenyl acetate, CmaxOR6–β‐caryophyllene, CmaxOR18–(E)‐β‐ocimene and CmaxOR18–tetradecane, with higher binding affinity and a suitable binding pocket. Lastly, 168Y in CmaxOR6 and 142Y in CmaxOR18 were predicted as key amino acid residues for binding β‐caryophyllene and tetradecane, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This work provides an example pipeline for de novo investigation in C. maximoviczi baits and the underlying olfactory perceptions. The results will benefit the future development of trapping‐based integrated pest management strategies and the deorphanization of odorant receptors in ground beetles. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Risk analysis of construction accidents with a weighted network model considering accident level
Authors: Chen Fangyu , Lei Siyao , Wei Yongchang
Published: April 2022

Construction is considered to be one of the most dangerous industries due to its wide variety of accidents and high risk. Although people have been using various means to improve safety levels, the frequent occurrence of accidents still plagues the development of this industry. Accurately grasping the characteristics and analyzing the complex relationships between the risks of different accident types are the keys to a comprehensive understanding and promotion of construction safety. Simultaneously, we need to note that the level and frequency of accidents affects the risk characteristics, but previous studies have not paid sufficient attention to these features. Using complex network theory, based on the risk factors and risk triggering relationship extracted from construction accidents and considering the accident level and the frequency of occurrences as their weights, several weighted risk networks are generated according to different accident types. Then, several network analysis metrics are introduced to reveal the characteristics of the risk network and identify the key risk factors. The analytical framework helps to pose targeted suggestions to reduce the occurrence of frequent major accidents.
Double difference method with zero and short base length carrier phase measurements for Navigation with Indian Constellation satellites L5 (1176.45 MHz) signal quality analysis
Authors: KCT Swamy , Devanaboyina Venkata Ratnam , Shaik Towseef Ahmed
Published: April 2022

The carrier phase (CP) measurements should be unambiguous to achieve the enhanced accuracy of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) services. However, all the real‐time CP measurements are manipulated by different errors, namely, satellite and receiver clock error, ionosphere delay, troposphere delay, integer ambiguity, etc. Even after removing or minimizing all these errors, the CP measurements are influenced by multipath error and receiver hardware residual or bias. In this research article, a double difference (DD) method is proposed to estimate residual or bias in CP observations of Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC). The proposed method abolishes all the common errors and provides bias. However, the CP measurement with a bit of bias value can be considered a high‐quality signal. Here, we investigate the quality of NavIC satellites L5 (1176.45 MHz) signal with real‐time measurements obtained through zero base length (ZBL) and short base length (SBL) experiments conducted at Kurnool (15.79°N, 78.07°E), India. The results show that the CP measurement bias of the L5 signal is within the range ±0.338 and ±1.688 m, respectively, for stationary and moving receivers. The bias was enhanced to 3.71 m for the SBL measurements. The results also demonstrate that the bias is low when carrier to noise (C/No) is high, and its range is nearly the same for all the days. This research would be helpful to estimate the bias that improves accuracy of precise point positioning (PPP) applications.
Discovery of Multi‐Targets Neuraminidase Inhibitor Lead Compound Against Influenza H1N1 Virus A/WSN/33 Based on QSAR, Docking, Dynamics Simulation and Network Pharmacology
Authors: Sun Jiaying , Liu Yaru , Yi Bingxiang , Shu Mao , Zhang Zhiping , Lin Zhihua
Published: April 2022

In this paper, three compounds are discovered as lead compounds of multi‐targets neuraminidase inhibitor drugs against influenza H1N1 virus A/WSN/33 using QSAR, molecular docking, dynamics simulation and network pharmacology. Moreover, NEU1, PLA2G1B and STAT1 are especially related to therapeutic targets of influenza virus. Therefore, the present study can be helpful in the process of the rational drug design of anti‐influenza virus drugs and improve reliability of findings novel multi‐target drugs which may avoid drug‐resistance.
Evaluation of the Adsorptive Potential of Zeolite Volcanic Tuff in Single and Binary Aqueous Solutions of the Basic Blue 41 Cationic Dye
Authors: Ignat Maurusa‐Elena , Dulman Viorica , Ignat Leonard , Ignat Maria , Humelnicu Ionel
Published: April 2022

A volcanic tuff of clinoptilolite type has been assessed in regards to its efficiency on Basic Blue 41 (BB‐41) cationic dye removal from aqueous solutions. Optimal working conditions were established by considering influences of the particle sizes, initial pH, dye concentration, contact time, and temperature. Tuff samples have been characterized by using SEM/EDX, FT‐IR, and N2gas adsorption‐desorption techniques. Experimental data at equilibrium showed a better fitting of adsorption kinetics on pseudo‐second‐order and Langmuir models, whereas the thermodynamic parameters indicate an endothermic spontaneous process. Tuff particles of 47 μm medium sizes, which own the highest zeolite content, were found to be the most suitable for practical use as adsorbents, attaining a maximum adsorptive capacity of 123.5 mg g−1pure dye at 323 K, equivalent to 303 mg g−1commercial product containing 40 % dye. A potential interference involving the retention pattern was furthermore evaluated within binary systems with other two cationic dyes, Rhodamine B (RhB) and Methylene Blue (MB). The adsorbent shows a relevant selectivity towards BB‐41, influenced by commercial dye additives, structural configuration, molecular size, and contact time, with the 99.7 % dye removal efficiency at 24 hours only slightly depressed in binary systems with RhB ‐ 97.4 %, respective MB ‐ 90.2 %. This study confirmed the tuff particles as efficient adsorbents for the treatment of textile wastewater effluents.
Development of an Electrodeposited Graphene Quantum Dot Electrode for the Electrochemical Detection of C‐Reactive Protein (CRP) Biomarker
Authors: Lakshmanakumar Muthaiyan , Nesakumar Noel , Sethuraman Swaminathan , Rajan K. S. , Krishnan Uma Maheswari , Rayappan John Bosco Balaguru
Published: April 2022

C‐reactive protein (CRP) is a potential cardiac biomarker whose levels fluctuate in response to cardiac diseases. In particular, the severity of cardiovascular disease can be associated with the level of CRP, emphasizing the necessity for a highly sensitive biosensor capable of detecting CRP at ultralow levels in a short period of time. In this study, we used a facile pyrolysis method to synthesize graphene quantum dots (GQDs) with a diameter of 2.2 nm. Then, to fabricate the Au/GQDs/anti‐CRP electrode, GQDs were electrodeposited successfully on the surface of the bare Au electrode to provide a nano‐interfaced matrix platform for effective anti‐CRP immobilization. Cyclic voltammetry was used to investigate the contact between anti‐CRP and CRP in the Fe(CN)63−/4− as a mediator. The recorded current signal from differential pulse voltammetry measurements shows that the associative interaction between the anti‐CRP and CRP is efficiently induced. Furthermore, the Figureure of merits of the developed sensor, including the sensory response of <50 s with a high sensitivity of 58 μA ng−1 mL−1 cm−2 and a low detection capability of 0.104 ng mL−1 (n=3), suggests that it is a potential candidate for point‐of‐care testing. And the fabricated Au/GQDs/anti‐CRP biosensor were used to sense CRP in an artificial serum (ringer lactate) solution.
A Review on the Conversion of Synthetic Gas to LPG over Hybrid Nanostructure Zeolites Catalysts
Authors: Al‐Qadri Ali. A. , Nasser Galal A. , Galadima Ahmad , Muraza Oki
Published: April 2022

Recently, Liquified petroleum gas (LPG) attracts wide applications due to its high heating value and clean combustibility. An innovative approach to synthesis of LPG from syngas was established based on Fisher‐Tropsch (F‐T) technology. However, the conversion and selectivity are generally low with the classical catalysts. The hybrid system of methanol and zeolite‐based catalyst was established as a potential approach to promote such a process. To strongly overcome the large demand of LPG and grasp the research work in this subject, a comprehensive review became necessary. LPG is basically produced from syngas through the direct method, where most recent studies lay on, and the indirect or semi direct approach. There were several factors affecting the process performance, which mainly are the reaction temperature, reaction pressure, type of the hybrid catalyst, carbon monoxide to hydrogen ratio, mixture flow rate, and time‐on‐stream of the reaction. The most common reaction conditions reported in the literature are 260–400 °C, 10–50 bars and H2 to CO ratio of 2. However, the most important parameter considered was the catalyst, which is a key factor of interest. The two main issues controlling the catalyst performance were the synergetic effect between the two hybridized catalysts and the used type of zeolite. It was perceived that the higher the zeolite membered rings the better the LPG selectivity (i. e., BEA, and USY provided the higher LPG production rate).
Chitosan‐ZnO: An Efficient and Recyclable Polymer Incorporated Hybrid Nanocatalyst to Synthesize Tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyrans and Pyrano[2,3‐d]pyrimidinones under Microwave Expedition
Authors: Nesaragi Aravind R. , Gasti Tilak , Metre Tukaram V. , Anand Ashish , Kamble Ravindra R. , Chougale Ravindra B. , Keri Rangappa S.
Published: April 2022

The innovation of facile, efficient and mild procedures utilizing contemptible, conveniently separable and reusablesolid catalysts that overcome obstacles are invariably in demand. Hence, a straightforward one‐pot multicomponent reaction (MCR) and an expedient procedure for the synthesis of pyran annulated heterocycles 5 a–k and 6 l–v is developed using Chitosan‐Zinc oxide (CS‐ZnO) hybrid nanocatalyst. Use of aqueous medium is one of the major highlight of the present protocol. This protocol renders ease of operation, facile work up and magnified yields (90–95 %) as well as explores the use of modified polymeric substrates in the organic synthesis.
Atomic Engineering Catalyzed Redox Kinetics of NixCo1‐x(OH)2 on Nanoporous Phosphide Electrode for Efficient Ni‐Zn Batteries
Authors: Tian Jiaxin , Peng Ming , Luo Min , Lan Jiao , Zhang Yanlong , Tan Yongwen
Published: April 2022

Aqueous nickel‐zinc (Ni–Zn) batteries with excellent safety and environmental benignity are promising candidates for sustainable energy storage. However, the inferior conductivity and inevitable phase transition of trditional Ni‐based cathodes limit the redox kinetics and lead to restricted electrode specific capacity and device energy density. Here, a NixCo1‐x(OH)2 electrode doped with Pd, Ag, and Au atoms is constructed for catalyzing the redox kinetics on the conductive nanoporous phosphide. Density functional theory calculations and experimental results reveal that the introduction of the Ag atomic dopants can effectively modulate the electron structure and optimize the OH− adsorption energy, thereby accelerating the catalyzed redox kinetics of NixCo1‐x(OH)2 by the facilitated charge transfer at the active sites around metal dopants. Consequently, the assembled Ni–Zn battery delivers an ultrahigh power density of 7.85 W cm−3 and energy density of 49.53 mW h cm−3, with a long‐term cycling stability. The cooperation of atomic catalysis and redox kinetics will inspire more exploration of efficient energy materials and devices.
Mechanisms of Interface Cleaning in Heterostructures Made from Polymer‐Contaminated Graphene
Authors: Huang Zhujun , Cuniberto Edoardo , Park Suji , Kisslinger Kim , Wu Qin , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Yager Kevin G. , Shahrjerdi Davood
Published: April 2022

Heterostructures obtained from layered assembly of 2D materials such as graphene and hexagonal boron nitride have potential in the development of new electronic devices. Whereas various materials techniques can now produce macroscopic scale graphene, the construction of similar size heterostructures with atomically clean interfaces is still unrealized. A primary barrier has been the inability to remove polymeric residues from the interfaces that arise between layers when fabricating heterostructures. Here, the interface cleaning problem of polymer‐contaminated heterostructures is experimentally studied from an energy viewpoint. With this approach, it is established that the interface cleaning mechanism involves a combination of thermally activated polymer residue mobilization and their mechanical actuation. This framework allows a systematic approach for fabricating record large‐area clean heterostructures from polymer‐contaminated graphene. These heterostructures provide state‐of‐the‐art electronic performance. This study opens new strategies for the scalable production of layered materials heterostructures.
Smart MOF‐on‐MOF Hydrogel as a Simple Rod‐shaped Core for Visual Detection and Effective Removal of Pesticides
Authors: Jia Wenwen , Fan Ruiqing , Zhang Jian , Zhu Ke , Gai Shuang , Yin Yuanyuan , Yang Yulin
Published: April 2022

The immoderate use of pesticides in the modern agricultural industry has led to the pollution of water resources and ultimately threatens the human body. Herein, two metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), namely {[Zn(tpt)2·2H2O]}n (Zn1) and {[Zn2(tpt)2(bdc)]}n (Zn2), (Htpt = 5‐[4(1H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl)]phenyl‐2H‐tetrazole), respectively, are constructed as smart materials for visual and on‐site detection of pesticides and their removal from water. The exposed nitrogen‐rich sites and high chemical stability make Zn2 a self‐assembly core to further fabricate MOF‐on‐MOF‐sodium alginate (ZIF‐8‐on‐Zn2@SA) composite by wrapping ZIF‐8 on the outside surface. Inheriting the excellent fluorescent emission of Zn2, the rod‐like ZIF‐8‐on‐Zn2@SA module exhibits naked‐eye detection of thiophanate‐methyl (TM) in real fruits and vegetables with a broad linear range (10–100 × 10−6 m), a low limit of detection (LOD = 0.14 × 10−6 m), and satisfactory recoveries (98.30–102.70%). In addition, carbendazim (CBZ), the metabolite of TM after usage in crops, can be efficiently removed from water by the ZIF‐8‐on‐Zn2@SA (qmax = 161.8 mg g−1) with a high correlation coefficient (R2 > 0.99). Therefore, the portable ZIF‐8‐on‐Zn2@SA sensing platform presents a promising candidate for monitoring and removal of pesticides, especially suitable for regions with serious pesticide environmental pollution.
Glaucoma Characterization by Machine Learning of Tear Metabolic Fingerprinting
Authors: Wu Jiao , Xu Mengqiao , Liu Wanshan , Huang Yida , Wang Ruimin , Chen Wei , Feng Lei , Liu Ning , Sun Xiaodong , Zhou Minwen , Qian Kun
Published: April 2022

Glaucoma is a common optic neuropathy disease affecting over 76 million people. Both timely diagnosis and progression monitoring are critical but challenging. Conventional characterization of glaucoma needs a combination of methods, calling for tedious procedures and experienced doctors. Herein, a platform through machine learning of tear metabolic fingerprinting (TMF) using nanoparticle enhanced laser desorption–ionization mass spectrometry is built. Direct TMF is obtained noninvasively, with fast speed and high reproducibility, using trace tear samples (down to 10 nL). Consequently, glaucoma patients are screened against healthy controls with the area under the curve (AUC) of 0.866, through machine learning of TMF. Further, primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG) is differentiated from primary angle‐closure glaucoma (PACG) and an early‐stage POAG is identified. Finally, a biomarker panel of six metabolites for glaucoma characterization (including screening, subtyping, and early diagnosis) with AUC of 0.827–0.891 is constructed, showing related metabolic pathways. The work will provide insights into eye diseases not limited to glaucoma.
On‐line reduction of insulin disulfide bonds with photoinduced radical reactions, upstream to nano liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry
Authors: Olsen Christine , Wiborg Elisa , Lundanes Elsa , Abadpour Shadab , Scholz Hanne , Wilson Steven Ray
Published: April 2022

A current focus of our research is dedicated to investigating tools that can be used to couple pancreas‐on‐a‐chip systems on‐line with mass spectrometry. To enable on‐line‐cleavage of insulin´s disulfide bonds, we coupled an inter‐chain cleavage reactor with a nano liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry system. The reactor featured a high intensity 254 nm photochemical mercury quartz lamp radiating upon an ultraviolet transparent tubing where acetone and isopropanol form hydroxyalkyl radicals which cleave insulin disulfide bridges. The cleavage allowed for robust fragmentation mass spectra of insulin using nanospray/Q‐Exactive mass spectrometry. A nano liquid chromatography separation column was placed downstream to the reactor. We found that for the nano liquid chromatography format, a silica monolith provided substantially less carry‐over and improved chromatographic performance to the investigated particle‐packed columns. The photochemical reactor/silica monolithic nano liquid chromatography/nanospray/Q‐Exactive mass spectrometry was compatible with cell culture medium, and will be further investigated for on‐line coupling with pancreas‐on‐a‐chip systems.
Gender differences in high school students' STEM career expectations: An analysis based on multi‐group structural equation model
Authors: Lv Beibei , Wang Jingying , Zheng Yonghe , Peng Xinhe , Ping Xiaomei
Published: April 2022

Gender gaps in STEM fields have been studied for a long time, and the primary focus has been on the relationship among social support (parents and teachers), STEM beliefs (STEM interest belief, self‐efficacy belief, and value belief), and STEM career expectations. Framed in Expectancy‐Value Models, this article aimed to explore how social support affects students' STEM career expectations directly and indirectly through STEM beliefs. Further, a gender study was conducted to examine the differences in structural relations between male and female student groups using multiple‐group structural equation modeling. A total of 798 10th grade students were surveyed in mainland China. The results showed that (1) male students performed better than female students in STEM career expectations, STEM value beliefs, STEM self‐efficacy beliefs, as well as parents' and teachers' support; (2) female students' STEM career expectations could be predicted by parental support, STEM value beliefs, and STEM interest beliefs, while male students' STEM career expectations were positively influenced by parental support, STEM self‐efficacy, and STEM interest beliefs. Hence, there were apparent gender differences regarding STEM interest beliefs, STEM self‐efficacy and their relationship toward future career expectations. Specifically, STEM interest beliefs were positively correlated with STEM career expectations of female students, whereas STEM self‐efficacy could only significantly influence male students' STEM career expectations.
An assessment of technological development and applications of decentralized water reuse: A critical review and conceptual framework
Authors: Maniam Geetha , Zakaria Nur Ain , Leo Choe Peng , Vassilev Vasilena , Blay Karen Banahene , Behzadian Kourosh , Poh Phaik Eong
Published: April 2022

Rapid development, urbanization, and population growth have contributed to water stress in many parts of the world. As freshwater sources are finite, it is essential to source for alternatives to ensure water security. Reclamation of non‐conventional water sources (i.e., rainwater and greywater) can be a viable alternative to alleviate water stress. In this work, various laboratory, pre‐commercialization scale, and commercialized products for rainwater harvesting and greywater treatment and reuse were reviewed. As a result, a conceptual framework is proposed to provide an overview on the applicability of technologies under various settings, which were mapped against the intended use of treated water and the potential for water supply expansion. This conceptual framework could aid decision makers in deciding on a suitable decentralized solution for water reclamation depending on limiting criteria. Decentralized systems of rainwater harvesting and greywater treatment for reuse are going to be crucial in reducing the dependence on the centralized water supply.

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Planning Water

Water and Life > Conservation, Management, and Awareness

Science of Water > Water Quality
Photochemistry with ClF3 – An Access to [ClOF2]+ Salts
Authors: Scheibe Benjamin , Karttunen Antti J. , Kraus Florian
Published: April 2022

A route to salts of the [ClOF2]+ cation is described that does not require the parent fluoride ClOF3 as a starting material. These can be obtained when either metals such as Cr, Rh, Pd and Au, halides such as PtCl2, SnF2 and PbF4, or oxides such as B2O3, OsO4, GeO2, SnO and Sb2O4 are reacted with ClF3 and additional O2, where necessary, under UV irradiation. Cr, Rh, Pd, PtCl2, GeO2, and SnO formed salts with the respective hexafluoridometallate(IV) anion with the composition [ClOF2]2[MF6]. They crystallize in two distinct structure types in either the monoclinic crystal system (M=Cr, Rh, Ge) or the orthorhombic one (M=Pd, Pt, Sn). The fluorides SnF2 and PbF4 were converted to the monoclinic salts [ClOF2]MF5, and B2O3 formed orthorhombic [ClOF2][BF4]. The triclinic compound ([ClOF2][OsO3F3])2⋅OsF6 was obtained from OsO4 and contains a neutral co‐crystallized OsF6 molecule. A monoclinic double salt with the composition [ClOF2]2[AuF4][SbF6] was obtained by reacting a mixture of Sb2O4 and Au. The compounds were investigated by single crystal X‐ray diffraction and IR and Raman spectroscopy. Quantum‐chemical calculations for the solid‐state allowed for the band assignments of the vibrational spectra.
Studying the Evolution of Resolution Capabilities and Approximation Accuracy of Global Models by Spectral Characteristics
Authors: Ganagina Irina G. , Karpik Alexander P. , Kanushin Vadim F. , Goldobin Denis N. , Mazurova Elena M.
Published: April 2022

The paper presents research of the evolution of resolution capabilities and approximation accuracy of the last decade global geopotential models based on space gravimetric measurements of CHAMP, GRACE and GOCE missions using their spectral characteristics.

The comparison between the model data with point measurements data on gravity anomalies and quasigeoid heights for the territory of Novosibirsk region is shown. Based on the research results the conclusion was drawn that accuracy characteristics of current global models under test built by the results of satellite gravimetry missions do not achieve the specified accuracy of 1 cm and 1 mGal on the territory under investigation. The research has made it possible to state that at the current technological and methodical level the potential has been reached as concerns EGF models resolution and accuracy enhancement.
Virasoro constraint for Uglov matrix model
Authors: Khlaif Osama , Kimura Taro
Published: April 2022

Abstract

We study the root of unity limit of (q,t)-deformed Virasoro matrix models, for which we call the resulting model Uglov matrix model. We derive the associated Virasoro constraints on the partition function, and find agreement of the central charge with the expression obtained from the level-rank duality associated with the parafermion CFT.
An extendable framework for intelligent and easily configurable skills-based industrial robot applications
Authors: Heuss Lisa , Gonnermann Clemens , Reinhart Gunther
Published: April 2022

Modern, flexible, and easy-to-use robotic technologies have the potential to support companies to increase their productivity within today’s dynamic and volatile production. In this context, we introduce a skills-based software framework that makes it possible to configure the functional capabilities of industrial robots flexibly. In addition, we have structured the software framework into three consecutive expansion stages. In this way, it is possible to expand the robot’s reasoning capabilities step by step so that the robot is enabled to be instructed at higher abstraction levels and to process increasingly complex tasks. The contribution of our work is the further development of previous approaches and ideas from the research field of skills-based industrial robotic frameworks by considering new and previously unaddressed design issues within the structure of our software framework. We demonstrate the application of the framework using the example of an industrial robot for assembling a diverse range of LEGO products. The example of use consists of three consecutive scenarios. To begin with, the robot assembles different predefined product variants. Subsequently, we extend the robot application in a step-by-step manner to allow the robot to execute more and more complex tasks until it can finally plan individual tasks autonomously. On the one side, our approach shows how to enable companies with little robotic experience to start developing robotic applications and thereby gain further expertise. On the other side, by using this approach the effort and time for developing industrial robot applications will be reduced in the long term.
Microneedle-based nanoporous gold electrochemical sensor for real-time catecholamine detection
Authors: Tortolini Cristina , Cass Anthony E. G. , Pofi Riccardo , Lenzi Andrea , Antiochia Riccarda
Published: April 2022

Dopamine (DA), epinephrine (EP), and norepinephrine (NEP) are the main catecholamine of clinical interest, as they play crucial roles in the regulation of nervous and cardiovascular systems and are involved in some brain behaviors, such as stress, panic, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a reliable sensing device able to provide their continuous monitoring in a minimally invasive manner. In this work, the first highly nanoporous gold (h-nPG) microneedle-based sensor is presented for continuous monitoring of catecholamine in interstitial fluid (ISF). The h-nPG microneedle-based gold electrode was prepared by a simple electrochemical self-templating method that involves two steps, gold electrodeposition and hydrogen bubbling at the electrode surface, realized by sweeping the potential between + 0.8 V and 0 V vs Ag/AgCl for 25 scans in a 10 mM HAuCl4 solution containing 2.5 M NH4Cl, and successively applying a fixed potential of − 2 V vs Ag/AgCl for 60 s. The resulting microneedle-based h-nPG sensor displays an interference-free total catecholamine detection expressed as NEP concentration, with a very low LOD of 100 nM, excellent sensitivity and stability, and fast response time (< 4 s). The performance of the h-nPG microneedle array sensor was successively assessed in artificial ISF and in a hydrogel skin model at typical physiological concentrations.

Graphical abstract
Beyond empathy decline: Do the barriers to compassion change across medical training?
Authors: Wang Clair X. Y. , Pavlova Alina , Fernando Antonio T. , Consedine Nathan S.
Published: April 2022

Background: Despite being a mandated, foundational value in healthcare, research on compassion remains limited. Studying the individual, patient, clinical, and contextual factors that interfere with compassion—the “barriers”—may clarify our understanding of the origins of compassion and identify potential targets for improving patient-centred care. Studies of the related construct of empathy have suggested that medical students report declines with increasing clinical experience. In contrast, when comparing physicians with medical students, increased clinical experience predicts lower barriers to compassion. Whether—and how—a similar experience-related decline in the factors that interfere with compassion occurs across medical training remains unknown.

Aims: To describe how the barriers to compassion vary across clinical training in medical students.

Method: New Zealand medical students (N = 351) in their clinical years (Years 4–6) completed measures of the Barriers to Physician Compassion (BPCQ) and potential covariates such as demographics, work burden factors, and dispositional factors. The BPCQ indexes the extent to which barriers in four domains (individual, patient, clinical, and contextual) interfere with a physician/student’s compassion towards patients. Analyses of variance and regression analyses were used to explore the effect of year level on the four types of barriers.

Results: Year 4 students reported slightly lower student-related, environmental and patient/family-related (but not clinical) barriers than Year 6 students (effect size: ɷ2 < 0.05); all barriers increased comparably across training. Controlling for relevant confounds, regression analyses confirmed that lower year level predicted lower barriers to compassion. Higher self-compassion, but not gender, predicted lower barriers.

Conclusions: In extending studies of empathy decline, this report suggests that students experience higher barriers to compassion as clinical training progresses. This is in contrast to existing studies contrasting physicians with medical students, where greater experience was associated with lower perceived barriers to compassion. Self-compassion may offset increases in barriers to care.
A formal proof and simple explanation of the QuickXplain algorithm
Authors: Rodler Patrick
Published: April 2022

In his seminal paper of 2004, Ulrich Junker proposed the QuickXplain algorithm, which provides a divide-and-conquer computation strategy to find within a given set an irreducible subset with a particular (monotone) property. Beside its original application in the domain of constraint satisfaction problems, the algorithm has since then found widespread adoption in areas as different as model-based diagnosis, recommender systems, verification, or the Semantic Web. This popularity is due to the frequent occurrence of the problem of finding irreducible subsets on the one hand, and to QuickXplain’s general applicability and favorable computational complexity on the other hand. However, although (we regularly experience) people are having a hard time understanding QuickXplain and seeing why it works correctly, a proof of correctness of the algorithm has never been published. This is what we account for in this work, by explaining QuickXplain in a novel tried and tested way and by presenting an intelligible formal proof of it. Apart from showing the correctness of the algorithm and excluding the later detection of errors (proof and trust effect), the added value of the availability of a formal proof is, e.g., (i) that the workings of the algorithm often become completely clear only after studying, verifying and comprehending the proof (didactic effect), (ii) that the shown proof methodology can be used as a guidance for proving other recursive algorithms (transfer effect), and (iii) the possibility of providing “gapless” correctness proofs of systems that rely on (results computed by) QuickXplain, such as numerous model-based debuggers (completeness effect).
Evaluating scales for pairwise comparisons
Authors: Cavallo Bice , Ishizaka Alessio
Published: April 2022

Pairwise comparisons have been a long-standing technique for comparing alternatives/criteria and their role has been pivotal in the development of modern decision-making methods. The evaluation is very often done linguistically. Several scales have been proposed to translate the linguistic evaluation into a quantitative evaluation. In this paper, we perform an experiment to investigate, under our methodological choices, which type of scale provides the best matching of the decision-maker’s verbal representation. The experiment aims to evaluate the suitability of eight evaluation scales for problems of different sizes. We find that the inverse linear scale provides the best matching verbal representation whenever the objective data are measured by means of pairwise comparisons matrices and a suitable distance between matrices is applied for computing the matching error.
High order approximations of the operator Lyapunov equation have low rank
Authors: Grubišić Luka , Hakula Harri
Published: April 2022

We present a low-rank greedily adapted hp-finite element algorithm for computing an approximation to the solution of the Lyapunov operator equation. We show that there is a hidden regularity in eigenfunctions of the solution of the Lyapunov equation which can be utilized to justify the use of high order finite element spaces. Our numerical experiments indicate that we achieve eight figures of accuracy for computing the trace of the solution of the Lyapunov equation posed in a dumbbell-domain using a finite element space of dimension of only $$10^4$$

10
4

degrees of freedom. Even more surprising is the observation that hp-refinement has an effect of reducing the rank of the approximation of the solution.
Rate of breast biopsy referrals in female BRCA mutation carriers aged 50 years or more: a retrospective comparative study and matched analysis
Authors: Pomerantz Adi , Tsoref Daliah , Grubstein Ahuva , Wadhawker Sonya , Rapson Yael , Gadiel Itay , Goldvaser Hadar , Feldhamer Ilan , Hammerman Ariel , Shochat Tzipora , Sharon Eran , Kedar Inbal , Yerushalmi Rinat
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the total biopsy and positive biopsy rates in women at high risk of breast cancer compared to the general population.

Methods

The study group consisted of 330 women with pathogenic variants (PVs) inBRCA1/2attending the dedicated multidisciplinary breast cancer clinic of a tertiary medical center in Israel. Clinical, genetic, and biopsy data were retrieved from the central healthcare database and the medical files. Patients aged 50 years or older during follow-up were matched 1:10 to women in the general population referred for routine breast cancer screening at the same age, as recommended by international guidelines. The groups were compared for rate of biopsy studies performed and percentage of positive biopsy results. Matched analysis was performed to correct for confounders.

Results

The total biopsy rate per 1000 follow-up years was 61.7 in the study group and 22.7 in the control group (p < 0.001). The corresponding positive biopsy rates per 1000 follow-up years were 26.4 and 2.0 (p < 0.001), and the positive biopsy percentages, 42.9% and 8.7% (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Women aged 50 + years with PVs inBRCA1/2attending a dedicated clinic have a 2.7 times higher biopsy rate per 1000 follow-up years, a 13.2 times higher positive biopsy rate per 1000 follow-up years, and a 4.9 times higher positive biopsy percentage than same-aged women in the general population.
Occurrence of some rare earth elements in vineyard soils under semiarid Mediterranean environment
Authors: R. Jiménez-Ballesta , S. Bravo , J.A. Amorós , C. Pérez-de-los-Reyes , J. García-Pradas , M. Sanchez , F.J. García-Navarro
Published: April 2022

A comprehensive investigation has been carried out into the concentrations of a range of REEs (neodymium Nd, cerium Ce, lanthanum La, yttrium Y, scandium Sc) in soils of vineyards belonging to the protected denomination of origin (PDO) Valdepeñas (Central Spain). The mean concentrations (expressed in mg kg−1) are Ce 70.6, Nd 32.9, La 36.2, Y 21.6, and Sc 13.7 in surface horizons (Ap), while in subsurface horizons (Bt or Bw and some Ck), the values are Ce 67.6, Nd 31.8, La 34.4, Y 19.6, and Sc 13.9. The relative abundance in these soils is Ce > La > Nd > Y > Sc in both the surface and subsurface horizons. These values are close to, or slightly higher than, the regional levels but similar to national and global averages, although relatively high values have been detected at certain sampling points. Another aim was to explain the spatial variations in these elements within the territory under study. It was found that the spatial variations are due to the nature of the parent materials and the pedogenetic processes, although the sparse spatial distribution patterns with prominent anomalies are interpreted arising from anthropogenic sources (fertilization). However, these anomalies did not present any environmental risk in the studied zone.
Towards a recipe for language decomposition: quality assessment of language product lines
Authors: Cazzola Walter , Favalli Luca
Published: April 2022

Programming languages are complex systems that are usually implemented as monolithic interpreters and compilers. In recent years, researchers and practitioners gained interest in product line engineering to improve the reusability of language assets and the management of variability-rich systems, introducing the notions of language workbenches and language product lines (LPLs). Nonetheless, language development remains a complex activity and design or implementation flaws can easily waste the efforts of decomposing a language specification into language features. Poorly designed language decompositions result in high inter-dependent components, reducing the variability space of the LPL system and its maintainability. One should detect and fix the design flaws posthaste to prevent these risks while minimizing the development overhead. Therefore, various aspects of the quality of a language decomposition should be quantitatively measurable through adequate metrics. The evaluation, analysis and feedback of these measures should be a primary part of the engineering process of a LPL. In this paper, we present an exploratory study trying to capture these aspects by introducing a design methodology for LPLs; we define the properties of a good language decomposition and adapt a set of metrics from the literature to the framework of language workbenches. Moreover, we leverage the LPL engineering environment to perform an empirical evaluation of 26 -based LPLs based on this design methodology. Our contributions form the foundations of a design methodology for -based LPLs. This methodology is comprised of four different elements: i) an engineering process that defines the order in which decisions are made, ii) an integrated development environment for LPL designers and iii) some best practices in the design of well-structured language decomposition when using , supported by iv) a variety of LPL metrics that can be used to detect errors in design decisions.
Consensus decision-making in CCAMLR: Achilles’ heel or fundamental to its success?
Authors: Goldsworthy Lynda
Published: April 2022

The Commission for the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources is the body responsible for the conservation and management of most species in the Southern Ocean. The Convention mandates that decisions be made by consensus agreement of its Members. This approach has been largely successful in delivering strong management decisions across both complex issues and widely ranging national interests. However, recent failures to progress the implementation of a network of marine protected areas or to agree any concrete response actions to climate impacts raise concerns about its effectiveness. This paper reviews the level of uptake of Member-driven proposals and then examines examples of proposals that were not resolved within the usual three years to analyse the processes utilised by Members to find resolution. It concludes that CCAMLR has been successful in reaching agreements when focusing on fisheries management but less so on issues within its broader conservation mandate, such as area protection for biodiversity purposes or non-fishery management focused scientific study, or for issues that are perceiv ed to extend the competency of the Convention. It notes that CCAMLR lacks operational mechanisms to facilitate agreement in the absence of compromise text or when one or two Members cannot accept a proposal.
Reasons for a Lower Rate of Epidural Anesthesia During Birth for Immigrant Women in the Eyes of Medical Staff: A Mixed-Methods Analysis
Authors: Seidel Vera , Großkreutz Claudia , Gürbüz Burcu , Henrich Wolfgang , Rancourt Rebecca C. , Borde Theda , David Matthias
Published: April 2022

Various studies have shown that immigrant women in comparison to non-immigrant women of the same parity have lower rates of epidural anesthesia (EDA). Data from two studies on immigrant obstetric care in Berlin, Germany were analyzed to answer the following question: What reasons do the medical staff see for the lower rate of EDA in immigrant women? Between May and August 2017, 34 interviews with obstetricians and midwives in four obstetric clinics in Berlin were conducted on the topic of obstetric care for immigrant women. After anonymizing the more than 20 h of interview material, transcripts were coded with MaxQDa and analyzed according to the qualitative content analysis.The quantitative data is from an online survey conducted between May and October 2017, in all but one obstetric clinic in Berlin with obstetricians and midwives. Regarding the research question, 121 questionnaires could be analyzed. In the online survey, (multiple answers were possible), the top reason for a lower rate of EDA given was mostly fear on the part of the immigrant women (64%). A language barrier, which results in logistic and time constrictions, is mentioned as the second most frequent reason (50%). The explorative analysis of the interviews shows that doctors and midwives regard cultural aspects such as different expectations on the birth experience as a reason for a lower EDA rate. Furthermore, within the medical staff the impression persists that in some cases the companion decides on the behalf of the patient about the application of an EDA, which from time to time is against the wish of the immigrant woman giving birth. In the view of the medical staff, the reasons for a lower rate of EDA during birth for immigrant women were varied. On one side, this is attributed to the wishes of the respective women (“demand”) but on the other side this can be attributed to the health care system (“supply”). In the case of a language barrier, the “supply” and the access of EDA for immigrant women is limited and can be then shifted to the German-speaking companion to make a decision regarding EDA (“structural deprivation of self-determination”).