bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical behavior and damage kinetics of a unidirectional carbon/epoxy laminated composite under dynamic compressive loading
Authors: Xie Wenbo , Zhang Wei , Yang Hongbin , Jiang Xiongwen , Wang Lina , Gao Yubo , Cai Xuanming
Published: March 2022

In this work, mechanical behavior and damage kinetics of a unidirectional carbon/epoxy laminated composite (CFRP) under dynamic compressive loading were investigated. An Instron testing machine and a pulse‐shaped split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) apparatus were employed to test the quasi‐static and dynamic mechanical properties of the material, respectively. Digital image correlation (DIC) combined with ultra high‐speed photography was used to study the deformation and failure process of the specimen under dynamic loading. The results show that the failure modes of the material along the main direction were strain‐rate sensitive. The failure mode along the fiber direction was observed to change from crushing followed by fiber kink banding to predominantly interlaminar delamination, longitudinal cracking and fiber buckling delamination as the strain rate increases from quasi‐static to high strain rates. Furthermore, an empirical formula for dynamic compression strength was established based on the test data. Model predictions and experimental data are in very good agreement. Finally, a simplified Zhu‐Wang‐Tang (ZWT) nonlinear visco‐hyperelastic constitutive model ZWT nonlinear viscoelastic model was developed to predict the mechanical behaviors of CFRP under dynamic impact loading. The predicted values are observed to essentially match the trends of the experimental results. This research will further improve the design of CFRP composites subjected to high‐speed impact loads during service.
Extending the prenatal Noonan's phenotype by review of ultrasound and autopsy data
Authors: Lamouroux Audrey , Dauge Coralie , Wells Constance , Mousty Eve , Pinson Lucile , Cavé Hélène , Capri Yline , Faure Jean‐Michel , Grosjean Frédéric , Sauvestre Fanny , Attié‐Bitach Tania , Pelluard Fanny , Geneviève David
Published: March 2022

Objectives

The antenatal phenotypic spectrum of Noonan Syndrome (NS) requires better characterization.

Methods

This multicenter retrospective observational included 16 fetuses with molecularly confirmed NS admitted for fetopathological examination between 2009 and 2016.

Results

Among 12 pathogenic variants (PV) in PTPN11 (80%), 5 (42%) fell between position c.179 and c.182. Ultrasound showed increased nuchal translucency (n = 13/16, 93%), increased nuchal fold after 15 weeks of gestation (n = 12/16, 75%), pleural effusions (n = 11/16, 69%), polyhydramnios (n = 9/16, 56%), hydrops (n = 7/16, 44%), cardiovascular (n = 6/16, 38%) and cerebral (n = 4/16, 25%) anomalies. Fetopathological examination found dysmorphic features in all cases, cardiovascular anomalies (n = 12/15, 80%), pulmonary hypoplasia (n = 10/15, 67%), effusions (n = 7/15, 47%) and neuropathological anomalies (n = 5/15, 33%). Hydrops was significantly (p = 0.02) more frequent in the four fetuses with RIT1, NRAS and RAF1 PV versus the 12 fetuses with PTPN11 PV.

Conclusions

Increased nuchal translucency and nuchal fold is common in NS. Noonan Syndrome antenatal phenotype showed high in utero fetal death, hydrops, prenatal pleural effusion and pulmonary hypoplasia, although the inclusion of only deceased fetuses will have selected more severe phenotypes. Non‐specific cardiovascular and neurological abnormalities should be added to NS antenatal phenotype. Next generation sequencing will help detect more genotypes, clarifying the prenatal phenotype and identifying genotype‐phenotype correlations.
Time‐varying response of fine root growth to soil temperature and soil moisture in cypress and deciduous oak forests
Authors: Nakahata Ryo
Published: March 2022

Fine root phenology is controlled by complex mechanisms associated with aboveground phenological events and environmental conditions, and therefore, elucidating fine root responses to changing environments remains difficult without considering the dynamics within and among years. This study evaluated the response of fine root growth at variable time scales to the surrounding environments of soil temperature and moisture at ecosystem scales. Optical scanners were used to measure fine root production over 4 years in two forests dominated by either cypress or deciduous oak trees. Correlations between fine root production and soil temperature and moisture were analyzed using the state‐space model. Fine root phenology varied among years in the cypress stand and showed stable growth patterns in the oak stand as production peaked in spring every year. Soil temperature had a dominant influence on fine root production, while soil moisture enhanced fine root growth especially in the oak stand. Fine root responses to both soil temperature and moisture peaked during the early growing season, indicating its own temperature hysteresis that means different responses under same temperature within a year. The time‐varying response of fine root growth to external factors is a key perspective to explain fine root growth mechanisms, and whether evergreen or deciduous habits differentiates the fine root phenology due to a linkage between above‐ and belowground resource dynamics.
Predicted Melt Curve and Liquid Shear Viscosity of RDX up to 30 GPa
Authors: Kroonblawd Matthew P. , Springer H. Keo
Published: March 2022

Recent grain‐scale simulations of HMX and TATB have shown that predictions for hot spot formation in high explosives are particularly sensitive to accurate determinations of the pressure‐dependent melt curve and the shear viscosity of the liquid phase. These physics terms are poorly constrained beyond ambient pressure for the explosive RDX. We adopt an all‐atom modeling approach using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to predict the melt curve of RDX near to detonation conditions (30 GPa) and determine the shear viscosity of the liquid as a function of temperature and pressure above the melt curve. Phase‐coexistence simulations were used to determine the melt curve, which is predicted to vary by almost 1100 K as the pressure increases from 0 GPa to 30 GPa. Equilibrium MD simulations and the Green‐Kubo formalism were used to obtain the pressure‐temperature‐dependent shear viscosity. The shear viscosity of RDX is predicted to be of similar magnitude to the viscosity of TATB at low GPa‐range pressures, and to be roughly an order of magnitude lower than the viscosity of HMX. The temperature dependence of the shear viscosity is Arrhenius at a given pressure, and the exponential pre‐factor and activation term exhibit a strong, yet complicated, pressure dependence. An empirical pressure‐temperature dependent function for RDX shear viscosity is developed that simultaneously captures a wide range of MD predictions while taking an analytic form that extrapolates smoothly beyond the fitted regime. The relative strength of the pressure and temperature dependencies of these two physics terms is found to be of similar magnitude for RDX, HMX, and TATB, which motivates incorporating these results in future RDX grain‐scale modeling.
Clinical and pathological features associated with circulating tumor DNA content in real‐world patients with metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Antonarakis Emmanuel S. , Tierno Marni , Fisher Virginia , Tukachinsky Hanna , Alexander Sonja , Hamdani Omar , Hiemenz Matthew C. , Huang Richard S.P. , Oxnard Geoffrey R. , Graf Ryon P.
Published: March 2022

Background

Liquid biopsy is a powerful tool that can enable treatment decisions for metastatic prostate cancer patients with difficult‐to‐biopsy tumors. However, the detection of genomic alterations via liquid biopsy is limited by the fraction (tumor fraction [TF]) of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) within the total cell‐free DNA content. While prior work has preliminarily correlated TF with clinical features of prostate cancer, we sought to validate and provide additional resolution, such that a clinical practitioner might anticipate the probability of successful liquid biopsy profiling leveraging commonly assessed clinical and laboratory features.

Methods

A total of 813 liquid biopsy specimens were assessable, with 545 associated with a PSA prostate specific antigen measurement, collected in standard‐of‐care settings across approximately 280 US academic or community‐based cancer clinics from September 2018 to July 2021. Deidentified data were captured into a real‐world clinico‐genomic database (CGDB). Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) was performed on extracted cell‐free DNA from liquid biopsy samples.

Results

In multivariable models, higher PSA level, lower hemoglobin, lower albumin, higher alkaline phosphatase (all p < 0.001), and collection of liquid biopsy blood draw within 60 days of new treatment initiation (p = 0.002) were the most strongly associated features with higher TF. At PSA levels of <5 ng/ml, 43% of patients had a TF of <1% indicating an increased likelihood of unevaluable results. Conversely, at PSA levels of >5 ng/ml, 78% of patients had a TF of at least 1% and 46% had a TF of ≥10%, suggesting improved sensitivity for detection of targetable alterations.

Conclusions

Universal genomic profiling of prostate cancers will require complementary use of liquid biopsy and tumor tissue profiling for suitable patients. The likelihood of adequate ctDNA shedding into plasma is one consideration when deciding whether to pursue CGP via liquid biopsy versus tumor profiling. Our real‐world data suggest that PSA < 5 ng/ml is associated with lower ctDNA yield on liquid biopsy, potentially increasing the incidence of negative results or a need for confirmation with tissue testing.
Characterization of glutamate‐cysteine ligase and glutathione synthetase from the δ‐proteobacterium Myxococcus xanthus
Authors: Okada Misaki , Kimura Yoshio
Published: March 2022

Glutathione (GSH) is synthesized in two ATP‐dependent reactions by glutamate‐cysteine ligase (Gcl) and glutathione synthetase (Gs). Myxococcus xanthus, a gram‐negative bacterium belonging to δ‐proteobacteria, possesses mxGcl and mxGs, which have high sequence identity with the enzymes from plants and bacteria, respectively. MxGcl2 was activated by Mn2+, but not by Mg2+, and stabilized in the presence of 5 mM Mn2+ or Mg2+. Sequence comparison of mxGcl2 and Brassica juncea Gcl indicated that they have the same active site residues, except for Tyr330, which interacts with Cys and which in mxGcl2 is represented by Leu267. The substitution of Leu267 with Tyr resulted in the loss of mxGcl2 activity, but that with Met (found in cyanobacterial Gcls) increased the mxGcl2 affinity for Cys. GSH and its oxidized form GSSG equally inhibited the activity of mxGcl2; the inhibition was augmented by ATP at concentrations >3 mM. Buthionine sulfoximine inactivated mxGcl2 with Ki = 2.1 μM, which was lower than those for Gcls from other organisms. The mxGcl2 activity was also suppressed by pyrophosphate and polyphosphates. MxGs was a dimer, and its activity was induced by Mg2+ but strongly inhibited by Mn2+ even in the presence of 10 mM Mg2+. MxGs was inhibited by GSSG at Ki = 3.6 mM. Approximately 1 mM GSH was generated with 3 units of mxGcl2 and 6 units of mxGs from 5 mM Glu, Cys, and Gly, and 10 mM ATP. Our results suggest that GSH production in M. xanthus mostly depends on mxGcl2 activity.
Relationship Between Nanotubes and Breakdown Voltage in GaN p–i–n Diodes
Authors: Yang Qian , Zhao Degang , Yang Jing , Liu Zongshun , Duan Lihong , Jiang Desheng
Published: March 2022

The failure analysis of a GaN p–i–n diode is carried out by current–voltage (I–V) tests, emission microscope (EMMI), focused ion beam (FIB), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). A nanotube is found at the location of the luminous spot in the EMMI test. Intentional breakdown experiments show that the breakdown voltages of about 1/3 diodes with the size of are lower than 50 V. These proportions are 1/2 and 5/6 for the diodes with the size of and respectively. At the breakdown injuries of some diodes, the nanotubes are also discovered, which indicates that nanotubes should be one of the important reasons for the reduction of the breakdown threshold voltage.
“To Spin or Not to Spin?”—Is Spin‐Coating the Ideal Technique for Pre‐Deposition of Sodium Fluoride for CIGS Rear Surface Passivated Ultrathin Solar Cells?
Authors: Birant Gizem , de Wild Jessica , Meuris Marc , Poortmans Jef , Vermang Bart
Published: March 2022

Herein, using the spin‐coating process as a sodium pre‐deposition technique for Cu(In,Ga)Se2, ultrathin film solar cells is discussed. Throughout this study, several challenges are detected to overcome, such as unevenly deposited salt layers and unplanned clusters (even islands) of sodium salts due to accumulation. The solar cell performances with the optimal and nonoptimal amounts of sodium are shared to assess the effect of varying sodium amounts on performance. The hyperspectral photoluminescence (PL) mapping and imaging and reflection measurements are also used to emphasize the importance of homogeneity of the sodium layer.
Bayesian adaptive randomization design incorporating propensity score‐matched historical controls
Authors: Sawamoto Ryo , Oba Koji , Matsuyama Yutaka
Published: March 2022

Incorporating historical control data to augment the control arm in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is one way of increasing their efficiency and feasibility when adequate RCTs cannot be conducted. In recent work, a Bayesian adaptive randomization design incorporating historical control data has been proposed to reduce sample size according to the amount of information that could be borrowed, assessed at interim assessment in respect to prior‐data conflict. However, the approach does not distinguish between the two sources of prior‐data conflict: (1) imbalance in measured covariates, and (2) imbalance in unmeasured covariates. In this paper, we propose an extension of the Bayesian adaptive randomization design to incorporate propensity score‐matched historical controls. At interim assessment, historical controls similar to the concurrent controls in terms of measured covariates are selected using propensity score matching. Then, final sample size of the control arm is adjusted according to the extent of borrowing from the matched historical controls quantified by effective historical sample size. The conditional power prior approach and commensurate prior approach are adopted for designing the prior, and addressing prior‐data conflict due to unmeasured covariate imbalance. Simulation results show that the proposed method yields reduced bias in treatment effect estimates, type I error at the nominal level, and reduced sample size while maintaining statistical power. Even when residual imbalance exists due to unmeasured covariates, the proposed method borrowed more information without risking substantially inflated type I error and bias, providing meaningful implications for use of historical controls to facilitate the conduct of adequate RCTs.
Assessing the quality of novel Aeolus winds for NWP applications at NCMRWF
Authors: Rani S. Indira , Jangid Buddhi Prakash , Kumar Sumit , Bushair M. T. , Sharma Priti , George John P. , George Gibies , Das Gupta M.
Published: March 2022

This study illustrates the validation of Aeolus Horizontal Line‐Of‐Sight (HLOS) winds, both Rayleigh‐clear and Mie‐cloudy, using in situ satellite wind (Atmospheric Motion Vectors, AMVs) observations, and NWP equivalents for three months, June–August 2020, covering the Indian summer monsoon season. Estimated errors in the Mie‐cloudy (Rayleigh‐clear) winds are clustered around 0.5–4 m·s−1 (3–8 m·s−1), and the differences between Aeolus Mie‐cloudy (Rayleigh‐clear) and sonde winds are within ±5 m·s−1 (± 8 m·s−1), but the systematic error is close to zero over the Northern Hemisphere where there are more sonde reports. Validation shows the quality of Mie‐cloudy winds is better than Rayleigh‐clear winds. Though the comparison against the observations like sonde (radiosonde and pilot balloons together) and aircraft indicate the quality of the Aeolus winds, their sparse spatial and temporal coverage limits the validation. Validation of Aeolus winds against AMVs provides similar results but with a better and nearly complete picture of the quality and quantity, with more information over the data‐sparse and remote regions. Statistical scores suggest the characteristics of the Aeolus winds at different vertical levels and geographical regions remain the same irrespective of the validation reference datasets. The Indian summer monsoon features like Low‐Level Jet (LLJ) and Tropical Easterly Jet (TEJ) are well represented in the Aeolus winds. This study also investigated the impact of the Aeolus HLOS winds over the Indian region through the collocated radiosonde and ALADIN wind profile assimilation experiments. Observing System Experiments (OSEs) suggest assimilation of Aeolus winds produced marginal improvement in the simulation of north Indian Ocean cyclones.
Human adenovirus type 26 basic biology and its usage as vaccine vector
Authors: Majhen Dragomira
Published: March 2022

Due to their nature, adenoviruses have been recognised as promising candidates for vaccine vector development. Since they mimic natural infection, recombinant adenovirus vectors have been proven as ideal shuttles to deliver foreign transgenes aiming at inducing both humoral and cellular immune response. In addition, a potent adjuvant effect can be exerted due to the adenovirus inherent stimulation of various elements of innate and adaptive immunity. Due to its low seroprevalence in humans as well as induction of favourable immune response to inserted transgene, human adenovirus type 26 (HAdV‐D26) has been recognised as a promising platform for vaccine vector development and is studied in number of completed or ongoing clinical studies. Very recently HAdV‐D26 based Ebola and Covid‐19 vaccines were approved for medical use. In this review, current state of the art regarding HAdV‐D26 basic biology and its usage as vaccine vector will be discussed.
Self‐Assembly of Graphene Oxide/Nanodiamond Microspheres with High Adsorption for Pb(II) Ions
Authors: Wu Wenxiong , Gao Feng , Qu Jiangying , Zang Yunhao , Fan Mincong , Hua Kaihui
Published: March 2022

Graphene oxide/nanodiamond (GO/ND) microspheres were synthesized via coupling electrostatic self‐assembly and capillary force in the presence of aniline for Pb(II) removal. The results indicate the presence of ND particles prevents from the restacking of GO nanosheets. Aniline with both benzene ring and amino group plays the synergistic effects on forming GO/15 %ND microspheres by π‐π interactions and acid‐base reaction etc. The formed microsphere with the fixed ratio of GO/ND as 85/15 (named as GO/15 %ND) has the unique hollow structure and abundant oxygen functional groups. The minimum size of GO/15 %ND microsphere is about 600 μm by tailoring the rotational speed and the ratio of GO/aniline. The isotherm and kinetics data indicate that the Pb(II) ion adsorption processes are well described by the Langmuir and pseudo‐second‐order kinetics mode. The maximum Pb(II) adsorption capacity of GO/15 %ND microsphere is 303.03 mg g−1 with the merits of high adsorption capacity, easy separation and facile recovery.
Self‐compassion and savouring buffer the impact of the first year of the COVID‐19 on PhD students' mental health
Authors: Paucsik Marine , Leys Christophe , Marais Gabriel , Baeyens Céline , Shankland Rebecca
Published: March 2022

Doctoral students face many challenges that were reinforced by COVID‐19‐related lockdowns. We assessed this impact over 1 year on doctoral students' depression, anxiety, stress, well‐being, and doctoral engagement. We also investigated the potential protective role of self‐compassion and savouring on mental health, well‐being, and doctoral engagement. A total of 134 PhD students from several French universities responded to the three‐time points of this longitudinal study. The results showed a significant increase in depression, anxiety and stress and a significant decrease in well‐being and doctoral engagement during the first year of the pandemic. Self‐compassion and savouring predicted lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, and higher levels of well‐being over time. Savouring alone predicted higher doctoral engagement over time. This study reveals the significant impact of the pandemic year on the mental health of doctoral students, and the relevance of self‐compassion and savouring as psychological resources to cope with adversity.
Atomic Molybdenum for Synthesis of Ammonia with 50% Faradic Efficiency
Authors: Zhang Chenhao , Wang Zhe , Lei Jincheng , Ma Lu , Yakobson Boris I. , Tour James M.
Published: March 2022

The electrochemical dinitrogen (N2) reduction reaction (NRR) under ambient conditions has gained significant interest as an environmentally friendly alternative to the traditional Haber–Bosch process for the synthesis of ammonia (NH3). However, up to now, most of the reported NRR electrocatalysts with satisfactory catalytic activities have been hindered by the large overpotential in N2 activation. The preparation of highly efficient Mo‐based NRR electrocatalyst in acidic electrolytes under ambient conditions is demonstrated here, consisting of stabilized single Mo atoms anchored on holey nitrogen‐doped graphene synthesized through a convenient potassium‐salt‐assisted activation method. At −0.05 V versus a reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), an electrode consisting of the resultant electrocatalyst immobilized on carbon fiber paper can attain an exceptional Faradaic efficiency of 50.2% and a NH3 yield rate of 3.6 µg h−1 mgcat−1 with low overpotentials. Density functional theory calculations further unveil that compared to the original graphene without holes, the edge coordinated Mo atoms and the existence of vacancies on holey graphene lower the overpotential of N2 reduction, thereby promoting the NRR catalytic activity. This work could provide new guidelines for future designs in single‐atom catalysis that would be beneficial to ambient N2 fixation, and replacement of classical synthesis processes that are very energy‐intensive.
Growth, Raman Scattering Investigation and Photodetector Properties of 2D SnP
Authors: Ding Chuyun , Yao Yuyu , Zhu Leilei , Shang Honghui , Xu Peng , Liu Xiaolin , Lin Jia , Wang Feng , Zhan Xueying , He Jun , Wang Zhenxing
Published: March 2022

As an important metal phosphides material, 2D tin phosphides (SnPx 0 <  x ≤ 3) have been theoretically predicted to have intriguing physicochemical properties and potential applications in electronics, optoelectronics, and energy fields. However, the synthesis of high‐quality 2D SnP single crystal has not been reported due to the lack of efficiency and reliable growth method. Here, a facile atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition (APCVD) method is developed to realize the growth of high‐quality 2D SnP nanosheets, by employing tin (Sn) foil as both liquid metal substrates and reaction precursor. Temperature‐dependent and angle‐resolved polarization Raman spectra observed Raman peaks located at 142.6, 303.3, and 444.2 cm‐1 are concluded to belong to A1g mode, which are consistent with the theoretical calculation results. Moreover, the field‐effect transistor (FET) devices based on SnP nanosheets show a typical n‐type characteristic with an on/off ratio of 103 at 200 K. SnP nanosheets also demonstrate excellent photoresponse performance under the illumination of 473, 532, and 639 nm lasers, which can be tuned by Vgs, Vds, and light power density. It is believed that these findings can provide the first‐hand experimental information for the future study of 2D SnP nanosheets.
Cryptic species of pondweeds (Potamogetonaceae) at an intercontinental scale revealed by molecular phylogenetic analyses
Authors: Fehrer Judith , Iida Satoko , Kaplan Zdenek
Published: March 2022

Cryptic species are morphologically indistinguishable but genetically divergent entities that constitute an important part of Earth's biodiversity. They occur in all kingdoms of life, especially when morphological characters are scarce. Compared to the high number of plant species, relatively few cryptic species have been detected so far. Here, we report cryptic species in pondweeds (Potamogeton), freshwater aquatic angiosperms that are characterized by reduced morphology. Using four molecular markers (ITS, 5S‐NTS, rpl20‐5′rps12, trnT‐trnL), three of them unlinked, we found that the widespread P. octandrus consists of three divergent lineages that correspond to the geographic origins of samples from Africa, Asia, and Australia, respectively. Relatively high genetic divergence between these lineages, reciprocal monophyly and many fixed diagnostic characters indicate that P. octandrus consists of three cryptic species. We formally distinguish the African lineage as P. parvifolius and the Australian lineage as P. tenuicaulis from Asian P. octandrus s.str. Potamogeton tenuicaulis is paraphyletic with the Asian species P. cristatus, which differs by unique fruit characters. We assume that the ancestor of P. cristatus originated from Australia and reached Asia by long‐distance dispersal. Quality criteria for assigning species status to cryptic species and their formal taxonomic recognition are discussed.
Dynamic capabilities and organizational ambidexterity: New strategies from emerging market multinational enterprises in Nigeria
Authors: Ochie Chinedu , Nyuur Richard B. , Ludwig Greg , Cunningham James A.
Published: March 2022

This study examines the strategies that firms deploy in developing and scaling up organizational ambidexterity under conditions of environmental uncertainty. Using five emerging market multinational enterprises (EMNEs) in the Nigerian financial sector as case studies the study provides a framework of four main ambidextrous strategies deployed by these firms. Based on the dynamic capabilities' lens, the study found that EMNEs pursue a combination of contextual and structural ambidextrous strategies, including new business models, investment in technology for strategic innovation, developing strategic alliances, and internationalization. These strategies serve as levers of dynamic capabilities for fostering exploration of new business opportunities, while strengthening, enriching, and exploiting their existing capabilities. These findings contribute to enriching the existing literature on ambidexterity by contributing to the ongoing debate about how ambidexterity manifest in EMNEs during periods of environmental uncertainty, particularly from an emerging country context.
Secular trends in prevalent mild cognitive impairment: Data from the Swedish population‐based study Good Aging in Skåne
Authors: Overton Marieclaire , Pihlsgård Mats , Elmståhl Sölve
Published: March 2022

Background

Research suggests that incident dementia is decreasing, yet research on secular trends of prodromal dementia such as mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is lacking.

Methods

To determine change of MCI prevalence over time and potential explanatory factors, four baseline samples (years 2001–2020) of Swedish participants (n = 3910) aged 60 and 81 at examination were compared.

Results

An overall drop of 9 to 10 percentage points in MCI prevalence between 2001 and 2020 was observed, with lower odds ratios (OR) for MCI in the latest birth cohorts compared to earliest (e.g., ORs for 60‐year‐olds in latest born = 0.53; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.37–0.76). Adjustments for sociodemographic (e.g., education), lifestyle, vascular and metabolic health and depression could not fully explain the observed MCI decline (e.g., 60‐year‐olds, OR = 0.59; 95% CI 0.40–0.88).

Discussion

Studies like this are imperative as even a slight postponement in the onset of dementia could have a substantial impact on future public health burden.
Name, Image, Likeness: Consider lessons from the past about disclosing records
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: March 2022

The American philosopher George Santayana offered a classic statement more than 100 years ago that, in its original form, read, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”
Defining and Measuring Dropout Phenomenon in Romanian Public Universities
Authors: Herţeliu Claudiu , Alexe-Coteţ Daniela , Hâj Cezar Mihai , Pârvan Andrei T.
Published: March 2022

Increasing the number of people who complete higher education is among the highest political priorities agreed upon within the European Higher Education Area. The measures to meet the objective can be addressed in secondary education or by reducing the dropout at higher education level. Even if the policy objective is reflected in multiple official documents, little has been done to assess the dropout rate at the national level. The accurate estimation of the dropout phenomenon within tertiary education is more complex than it seems at first glance. It must take into account the very diverse processes that can occur throughout the academic student path. These are defined, regulated, and especially registered differently from one university to another: temporary interruption of studies, transfer between or within universities, pursuing two study programs at the same time or delayed graduation. The current research presented in this article is based on the analysis of available data from the National Student Enrolment Registry (RMUR), and it is part of a larger strategic project carried on by the executive institution in charge (UEFISCDI) together with the Ministry of Education in Romania. In this context, this paper aims to provide a definition of the dropout rate in the Romanian context, envisages the whole range of international approaches analyses the dropout rate through different variables in order to better highlight equity problems that need to be addressed.
Cholecystokinin/sulfakinin peptide signaling: conserved roles at the intersection between feeding, mating and aggression
Authors: Nässel Dick R. , Wu Shun-Fan
Published: March 2022

Neuropeptides are the most diverse messenger molecules in metazoans and are involved in regulation of daily physiology and a wide array of behaviors. Some neuropeptides and their cognate receptors are structurally and functionally well conserved over evolution in bilaterian animals. Among these are peptides related to gastrin and cholecystokinin (CCK). In mammals, CCK is produced by intestinal endocrine cells and brain neurons, and regulates gall bladder contractions, pancreatic enzyme secretion, gut functions, satiety and food intake. Additionally, CCK plays important roles in neuromodulation in several brain circuits that regulate reward, anxiety, aggression and sexual behavior. In invertebrates, CCK-type peptides (sulfakinins, SKs) are, with a few exceptions, produced by brain neurons only. Common among invertebrates is that SKs mediate satiety and regulate food ingestion by a variety of mechanisms. Also regulation of secretion of digestive enzymes has been reported. Studies of the genetically tractable fly Drosophila have advanced our understanding of SK signaling mechanisms in regulation of satiety and feeding, but also in gustatory sensitivity, locomotor activity, aggression and reproductive behavior. A set of eight SK-expressing brain neurons plays important roles in regulation of these competing behaviors. In males, they integrate internal state and external stimuli to diminish sex drive and increase aggression. The same neurons also diminish sugar gustation, induce satiety and reduce feeding. Although several functional roles of CCK/SK signaling appear conserved between Drosophila and mammals, available data suggest that the underlying mechanisms differ.
Orthogonal Eisenstein series at harmonic points and modular forms of singular weight
Authors: Kiefer Paul
Published: March 2022

We investigate the behaviour of orthogonal non-holomorphic Eisenstein series at their harmonic points by using theta lifts. In the case of singular weight, we show that the orthogonal non-holomorphic Eisenstein series that can be written as a theta lift have a simple pole at$$s = 1$$s=1whose residues yield holomorphic orthogonal modular forms that are Eisenstein series on the boundary. Moreover, we will investigate the image of this construction and give sufficient conditions for the surjectivity.
The effect of hypertonic saline evoked muscle pain on neurophysiological changes and exercise performance in the contralateral limb
Authors: Norbury Ryan , Smith Samuel A. , Burnley Mark , Judge Megan , Mauger Alexis R.
Published: March 2022

Non-local muscle pain may impair endurance performance through neurophysiological mechanisms, but these are relatively unknown. This study examined the effects of muscle pain on neuromuscular and neurophysiological responses in the contralateral limb. On separate visits, nine participants completed an isometric time to task failure (TTF) using the right knee extensors after intramuscular injection of isotonic saline (CTRL) or hypertonic saline (HYP) into the left vastus lateralis. Measures of neuromuscular fatigue were taken before, during and after the TTF using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and peripheral nerve stimulation. Mean pain intensity was greater in the left leg in HYP (3.3 ± 1.9) compared to CTRL (0.4 ± 0.7; P < 0.001) which was combined with a reduced TTF by 9.8% in HYP (4.54 ± 0.56 min) compared to CTRL (5.07 ± 0.77 min; P = 0.005). Maximum voluntary force was not different between conditions (all P > 0.05). Voluntary activation was lower in HYP compared to CTRL (P = 0.022). No difference was identified between conditions for doublet amplitude (P > 0.05). Furthermore, no difference in MEP·Mmax−1 or the TMS silent period between conditions was observed (all P > 0.05). Non-local pain impairs endurance performance of the contralateral limb. This impairment in performance is likely due to the faster attainment of the sensory tolerance limit from a greater amount of sensory feedback originating from the non-exercising, but painful, left leg.
NEMA NU 2–2018 performance evaluation of a new generation 30-cm axial field-of-view Discovery MI PET/CT
Authors: Zeimpekis Konstantinos G. , Kotasidis Fotis A. , Huellner Martin , Nemirovsky Alexandra , Kaufmann Philipp A. , Treyer Valerie
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The DMI PET/CT is a modular silicon photomultiplier–based scanner with an axial field-of-view (FOV) between 15 and 25 cm depending on ring configuration (3, 4, or 5 rings). A new generation of the system includes a reengineered detector module, featuring improved electronics and an additional 6th ring, extending the axial FOV to 30 cm. We report on the performance evaluation of the 6-ring upgraded Generation 2 (Gen2) system while values are also reported for the 5-ring configuration of the very same system prior to the upgrade.

Methods

PET performance was evaluated using the NEMA NU 2–2018 standard for spatial resolution, sensitivity, image quality, count rate performance, timing resolution, and image co-registration accuracy. Patient images were used to assess image quality.

Results

The average system sensitivity was measured at 32.76 cps/kBq (~ 47% increase to 5 rings at 22.29 cps/kBq) while noise equivalent count rate peaked at 434.3 kcps corresponding to 23.6 kBq/mL (~ 60% increase to Generation 1 (Gen1) and 39% to Gen2 5 rings). Contrast recovery ranged between 54.5 and 85.8% similar to 5 rings, while the 6 rings provided lower background variability (2.3–8.5% for 5 rings vs 1.9–6.8% for 6 rings) and lower lung error (4.0% for the 5 rings and 3.16% for the 6 rings). Transverse/axial full width at half-maximum (FWHM) at 1 cm (3.79/4.26 mm) and 10 cm (4.29/4.55 mm), scatter fraction (40.2%), energy resolution (9.63%), and time-of-flight (TOF) resolution (389.6 ps at 0 kBq/mL) were in line to previously reported values measured across different system configurations. Improved patient image quality is obtained with the 6 rings compared to the 5 rings, while image quality is retained even at reduced scan times, enabling WB dynamic acquisitions.

Conclusions

The higher sensitivity of the 6-ring DMI compared to the 5-ring configuration may lead to improved image quality of clinical images at reduced scan time. Additionally, it could equally be used to allow improved temporal sampling and/or reduced overall scan time in dynamic acquisitions. Conversely, temporal sampling and scan time could be traded per application to further drive injected dose at lower levels.
Adherence to the Dutch healthy diet index and change in glycemic control and cardiometabolic markers in people with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Bartels Ehlana Catharina Maria , den Braver Nicolette Roelina , Borgonjen-van den Berg Karin Johanna , Rutters Femke , van der Heijden Amber , Beulens Joline Wilhelma Johanna
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To investigate whether adherence to the Dutch Healthy Diet index 2015 (DHD15-index) is associated with change in glycemic control and cardio-metabolic markers over two-year follow-up in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 1202 individuals with T2D (mean age 68.7 ± 9.0 years; 62.5% male; mean HbA1c 53.8 ± 11.7 mmol/mol) from the Diabetes Care System cohort. Baseline dietary intake was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire, and adherence to the DHD15-index was estimated (range 0–130). HbA1c, fasting glucose, blood lipids (HDL and LDL cholesterol, cholesterol ratio), blood pressure, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and BMI were measured at baseline, and after one- and two-year follow-up. Linear mixed model analyses were conducted to examine the associations between adherence to the DHD15-index and glycemic control and the cardio-metabolic outcomes, adjusting for energy intake, sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics, and medication.

Results

Highest adherence (T3) to the DHD15-index was not associated with change in HbA1c, compared to lowest adherence (T1) [βT3vsT1: 0.62 mmol/mol (− 0.94; 2.19), Ptrend = 0.44]. There was a non-linear association with fasting glucose, where moderate adherence (T2) was associated with a decrease in fasting glucose [βT2vsT1: − 0.29 mmol/L (− 0.55; − 0.03), Ptrend = 0.30]. Higher adherence to the DHD15-index was associated with a decrease in BMI [β10point: − 0.41 kg/m2 (− 0.60; − 0.21), Ptrend < 0.001], but not with blood lipids, blood pressure or kidney function.

Conclusion

In this well-controlled population of people with T2D, adherence to the DHD15-index was associated with a decrease in BMI, but not with change in glycemic control or other cardio-metabolic parameters.
Mortality after benign thyroid surgery in patients aged 80 years or older
Authors: Farhad Salem A. , Anders Bergenfelz , Erik Nordenström , Martin Nilsson , Martin Almquist
Published: March 2022

Introduction

A recent report from the United Nations showed that aged people are increasing worldwide. Few data exist on overall survival for patients 80 years or older undergoing benign thyroid surgery. Short- and long-term survival and risk factors for death in patients undergoing thyroid surgery for benign disease were evaluated, using a nationwide, population-based quality register.

Methods

Patients operated for benign thyroid disease, 2004 to 2017, were collected from the national quality register for thyroid surgery. Mortality data were retrieved from the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare. Mortality at 30 days, 90 days, and 1 year after surgery, for patients 80 years or older, was calculated. Overall survival was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier estimate. Risk factors for mortality were assessed with Cox’s multiple regression analysis. The standardized mortality ratio was calculated.

Results

There were 17,969 patients. Among them, 483 patients were 80 years or older, and of these, 397 (82.2%) were women. The mortality rate at 0–30 days, 31–90 days, and at 91–365 days after surgery was 0.4%, 0.2%, and 2.5%, respectively. The median (IQR) follow-up time was 4.5 (2.9–7.2) and the median (IQR) survival time was 8.0 (4.1–12.5) years. Apart from age, there was no other risk factor for death. The standardized mortality ratio (SMR) was 0.67 (0.49–0.91) for men and 0.76 (0.65–0.89) for women.

Conclusion

Mortality after surgery for benign thyroid disease in patients 80 years or older was lower than the general population with no specific risk factors for death except for age.
Morphological analysis and stage determination of anther development in Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]
Authors: Laza Haydee E. , Kaur-Kapoor Harsimran , Xin Zhuanguo , Payton Paxton R. , Chen Junping
Published: March 2022

Main Conclusion

The characteristics of sorghum anthers at 18 classified developmental stages provide an important reference for future studies on sorghum reproductive biology and abiotic stress tolerance of sorghum pollen.

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is the fifth-most important cereal crop in the world. It has relatively high resilience to drought and high temperature stresses during vegetative growing stages comparing to other major cereal crops. However, like other cereal crops, the sensitivity of male organ to heat and drought can severely depress sorghum yield due to reduced fertility and pollination efficiency if the stress occurs at the reproductive stage. Identification of the most vulnerable stages and the genes and genetic networks that differentially regulate the abiotic stress responses during anther development are two critical prerequisites for targeted molecular trait selection and for enhanced environmentally resilient sorghum in breeding using a variety of genetic modification strategies. However, in sorghum, anther developmental stages have not been determined. The distinctive cellular characteristics associated with anther development have not been well examined. Lack of such critical information is a major obstacle in the studies of anther and pollen development in sorghum. In this study, we examined the morphological changes of sorghum anthers at cellular level during entire male organ development processes using a modified high-throughput imaging variable pressure scanning electron microscopy and traditional light microscopy methods. We divided sorghum anther development into 18 distinctive stages and provided detailed description of the morphological changes in sorghum anthers for each stage. The findings of this study will serve as an important reference for future studies focusing on sorghum physiology, reproductive biology, genetics, and genomics.
Processing of visual statistics of naturalistic videos in macaque visual areas V1 and V4
Authors: Hatanaka Gaku , Inagaki Mikio , Takeuchi Ryosuke F. , Nishimoto Shinji , Ikezoe Koji , Fujita Ichiro
Published: March 2022

Natural scenes are characterized by diverse image statistics, including various parameters of the luminance histogram, outputs of Gabor-like filters, and pairwise correlations between the filter outputs of different positions, orientations, and scales (Portilla–Simoncelli statistics). Some of these statistics capture the response properties of visual neurons. However, it remains unclear to what extent such statistics can explain neural responses to natural scenes and how neurons that are tuned to these statistics are distributed across the cortex. Using two-photon calcium imaging and an encoding-model approach, we addressed these issues in macaque visual areas V1 and V4. For each imaged neuron, we constructed an encoding model to mimic its responses to naturalistic videos. By extracting Portilla–Simoncelli statistics through outputs of both filters and filter correlations, and by computing an optimally weighted sum of these outputs, the model successfully reproduced responses in a subpopulation of neurons. We evaluated the selectivities of these neurons by quantifying the contributions of each statistic to visual responses. Neurons whose responses were mainly determined by Gabor-like filter outputs (low-level statistics) were abundant at most imaging sites in V1. In V4, the relative contribution of higher order statistics, such as cross-scale correlation, was increased. Preferred image statistics varied markedly across V4 sites, and the response similarity of two neurons at individual imaging sites gradually declined with increasing cortical distance. The results indicate that natural scene analysis progresses from V1 to V4, and neurons sharing preferred image statistics are locally clustered in V4.
Comparison of two methods of cardiopulmonary exercise testing for assessing physical fitness in children and adolescents with extreme obesity
Authors: Kalski Linda , Wannack Martin , Wiegand Susanna , Wolfarth Bernd
Published: March 2022

It is well-known that children and adolescents with obesity have increased over recent decades which in turn carries greater risk of co-morbidities and poses a preventive as well as a therapeutic challenge. Currently, there are limited recommendations available on proven methods for recording physical fitness in children and adolescents presenting with extreme obesity. In this study, twenty participants, aged 12–17 years, with a body mass index (BMI) above the 99.5th percentile, were comparatively assessed, using a correlation between their physical fitness on a bicycle (BC) and treadmill (TM) cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) with a lactate diagnostic. The results of the BC and the TM were as follows: maximum heart rate (HRmax) 186.4 ± 8.6 beats per minute (bpm) vs. 190.8 ± 8.8 bpm, peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak/kg) 23.5 ± 2.9 ml/min/kg vs. 25.4 ± 3.1 ml/min/kg, and maximum lactate (Lamax) 6.4 ± 1.6 mmol/l vs. 5.6 ± 1.4 mmol/l. The values of HRmax and VO2peak/kg were significantly higher for adolescents tested on the TM. However, no significant difference was observed in either Lamax values or between the genders.

   Conclusions: The higher values of HRmax and VO2peak/kg could be attributed to the activation of a higher percentage of muscle mass on the TM. Lower Lamax values on the TM suggest maximum physical exertion was not achieved. This could be due to the extreme body weight carried by the participants. Both the BC and the TM CPET could be used for assessing physical fitness in children and adolescents with extreme obesity but should not be used interchangeably.

What is Known:• Currently, there are only limited recommendations available on proven methods for recording physical fitness in children and adolescents with extreme obesity available.

What is New:• Cardiopulmonary exercise testing with maximum physical exertion has been shown to be feasible in children and adolescents with extreme obesity. The results obtained from this study demonstrated that both a bicycle and a treadmill can be effectively used for assessing the physical fitness levels in children and adolescents with extreme obesity.