bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secondary forest succession buffers extreme temperature impacts on subtropical Asian ants
Authors: Lee Roger Ho , Morgan Brett , Liu Cong , Fellowes John R. , Guénard Benoit
Published: July 2021

Secondary forest succession may restore microclimatic refugia for ectotherms and play a fundamental role in mitigating the combined effects of deforestation and climate warming on biodiversity; however, empirical evidence remains limited by short‐term, coarse‐scale, and solely taxonomic‐based approaches. We hypothesize that ant assemblage composition will respond differently to an increased frequency of extreme heat events between sites with and without microclimatic refugia provided by secondary forest’s regrowth. We test this hypothesis by integrating comprehensive historic surveys (1992–1994) and contemporary resampling (2015–2017) of ant assemblages to investigate how soil surface temperatures (estimated by microclimatic models [30 × 30 m]) and physical parameters (e.g., canopy cover) over the past >20 yr drive changes in their taxonomic, functional, and phylogenetic diversity for open (grasslands and shrublands) and closed (secondary forests) habitat types. Our results show a significant spatial turnover in the ant assemblage composition in both habitat types over the past two decades. Furthermore, for taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic spatial beta diversity, temperature became the primary variable explaining the differences in species composition among sites in open habitats, but not in closed habitats. Nevertheless, leaf litter cover may, to a certain extent, provide some thermal buffer for litter‐dwelling species exposed to extreme heat. On the contrary, within forests, canopy cover mitigated the adverse impact of extreme heat on ant assemblages, with a shift toward smaller body size observed over time only in sites with lower canopy cover. These findings highlight the importance of restored canopy in providing thermal buffering for understory ectotherms. While tropical forest restoration represents an essential component in enhancing species resilience under climate warming, additionally we considered that the restoration of microclimatic regimes across different land use types is essential to conserve tropical biodiversity across the deforested landscape.
An integrated path for spatial capture–recapture and animal movement modeling
Authors: McClintock Brett T. , Abrahms Briana , Chandler Richard B. , Conn Paul B. , Converse Sarah J. , Emmet Robert L. , Gardner Beth , Hostetter Nathan J. , Johnson Devin S.
Published: July 2021

Ecologists and conservation biologists increasingly rely on spatial capture–recapture (SCR) and movement modeling to study animal populations. Historically, SCR has focused on population‐level processes (e.g., vital rates, abundance, density, and distribution), whereas animal movement modeling has focused on the behavior of individuals (e.g., activity budgets, resource selection, migration). Even though animal movement is clearly a driver of population‐level patterns and dynamics, technical and conceptual developments to date have not forged a firm link between the two fields. Instead, movement modeling has typically focused on the individual level without providing a coherent scaling from individual‐ to population‐level processes, whereas SCR has typically focused on the population level while greatly simplifying the movement processes that give rise to the observations underlying these models. In our view, the integration of SCR and animal movement modeling has tremendous potential for allowing ecologists to scale up from individuals to populations and advancing the types of inferences that can be made at the intersection of population, movement, and landscape ecology. Properly accounting for complex animal movement processes can also potentially reduce bias in estimators of population‐level parameters, thereby improving inferences that are critical for species conservation and management. This introductory article to the Special Feature reviews recent advances in SCR and animal movement modeling, establishes a common notation, highlights potential advantages of linking individual‐level (Lagrangian) movements to population‐level (Eulerian) processes, and outlines a general conceptual framework for the integration of movement and SCR models. We then identify important avenues for future research, including key challenges and potential pitfalls in the developments and applications that lie ahead.
KO‐t‐Bu Catalyzed Thiolation of β‐(Hetero)arylethyl Ethers via MeOH Elimination/hydrothiolation
Authors: Shigeno Masanori , Shishido Yoshiteru , Hayashi Kazutoshi , Nozawa‐Kumada Kanako , Kondo Yoshinori
Published: July 2021

Herein, we describe a KO‐t‐Bu catalyzed thiolation of β‐(hetero)arylethyl ethers through MeOH elimination to form (hetero)arylalkenes followed by anti‐Markovnikov hydrothiolation to afford linear thioethers. The system works well with a variety of β‐(hetero)arylethyl ethers, including electron‐deficient, electron‐neutral, electron‐rich, and branched substrates and a range of aliphatic and aromatic thiols.
Xanthates as Thiol Surrogates for Nucleophilic Substitution with Aryl Halides
Authors: Sokolov Anatolii I. , Mikhaylov Andrey A. , Baleeva Nadezhda S. , Baranov Mikhail S.
Published: July 2021

We herein report an unprecedented xanthate‐based protocol for the preparation of aryl‐alkyl thioethers. Heating xanthates with aryl halides and namely cesium carbonate in methanol provides the target thioethers in generally good yields within short reaction times. This method allows one to avoid contact with odorous thiols and also to introduce substituents of which the corresponding thiols are virtually unavailable or inconvenient in use.
Effects of wheat flour particle size on flour physicochemical properties and steamed bread quality
Authors: Pang Jinyue , Guan Erqi , Yang Yuling , Li Mengmeng , Bian Ke
Published: July 2021

In this study, differently sized particles of wheat flour (from 52.36 μm to 108.89 μm) were obtained by adjusting the distance between the rolls (0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08, and 0.1 mm) of a heart mill. Results showed that reducing the particle size significantly increased the damaged starch (DS) content. Uniaxial tensile measurement of dough showed that reducing the particle size of wheat flour can effectively increase the maximum tensile resistance, but the extensibility reaches the maximum in samples at medium particle diameter (78 and 66 μm). Additionally, the ratio of dynamic moduli (G″/G′) decreased with a reducing particle size. The results of disulfide bond content, gluten microstructure, showed that finer flour granulation can strengthen the gluten network. The steamed bread (SB) making test showed that SB made from wheat flour of a smaller particle size had a significantly smaller specific volume than that made from a larger particle size. The texture profile analysis showed that with a decrease of wheat flour particle size, the hardness, chewiness of SB increased, the resilience decreased, and there was no significant difference in adhesiveness. Overall, the quality of SB made flour of medium particles (78 μm) is better.
Comparison of Microplastic Pollution in Beach Sediment and Seawater at UNESCO Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve
Authors: Khuyen Vo Thi Kim , Le Dinh Vu , Fischer Axel René , Dornack Christina
Published: July 2021

Microplastics have become a global concern due to their persistent properties and impacts on the marine environment. This research investigates pollution sources and behaviors of microplastics at UNESCO Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve. Density flotation with sodium chloride is employed to extract microplastics from sand at Can Gio Beach, and a double‐filtration procedure is developed to recover microplastics from seawater at the beach and Dong Tranh Cape. The microplastics’ morphology and type are analyzed by micro‐Raman spectroscopy. The results show that microplastics are accumulated at concentrations from 31.99 to 92.56 MPs g−1 at various sand layers. The seawater at Can Gio Beach and Dong Tranh Cape contains 6.44 and 3.75 MPs L−1 of microplastics, respectively. White polyethylene fragments predominate, and all the microplastics comprise small secondary microplastics with a minimum size of 25 µm and a maximum size of 260 µm for fragments and a length of 640 µm for fibers. The proportions of polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, and polymethylmethacrylate are similar. The differing percentages of other compositions in sand and seawater are attributed to the morphology and density of the microplastics. The results indicate the extent of microplastic pollution and suggest appropriate strategies for tourism development at the Biosphere Reserve.
Serum lactate dehydrogenase is a predictive biomarker in patients with oropharyngeal cancer undergoing radiotherapy: Retrospective study on predictive factors
Authors: Uehara Takuya , Doi Hiroshi , Ishikawa Kazuki , Inada Masahiro , Tatsuno Saori , Wada Yutaro , Oguma Yasuo , Kawakami Hisato , Nakamatsu Kiyoshi , Hosono Makoto , Nishimura Yasumasa
Published: July 2021

Background

The present study aimed to evaluate the prognostic factors in human papillomavirus (HPV)‐positive and HPV‐negative oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) treated with definitive radiotherapy.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 101 patients with OPC who underwent definitive radiotherapy between 2008 and 2018.

Results

The median follow‐up period of the surviving patients was 68 months (range, 8–164 months). The 5‐year overall survival rate was 69.8%. Univariate analyses revealed that poor survival was associated with male sex, smoking ≥30 pack‐years, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥1, tumor‐node‐metastasis (TNM) stage III‐IV (8th edition), HPV‐negativity, serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) ≥202, C‐reactive protein/albumin ratio ≥0.15, and lymphocyte‐to‐monocyte ratio <2.90. In multivariate analyses, poor survival was independently correlated with smoking ≥30 pack‐years (p < 0.01) and LDH ≥202 (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

The present study suggested that high LDH levels predicted poor survival after definitive radiotherapy for patients with both HPV‐positive and HPV‐negative OPC.
Combination of Olaparib with radiotherapy for triple‐negative breast cancers: One‐year toxicity report of the RADIOPARP Phase I trial
Authors: Loap Pierre , Loirat Delphine , Berger Frederique , Cao Kim , Ricci Francesco , Jochem Anne , Raizonville Laurence , Mosseri Veronique , Fourquet Alain , Kirova Youlia
Published: July 2021

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells are sensitive to PARP1 inhibitors in vitro. The combination of Olaparib and radiotherapy for TNBC is currently evaluated in the Phase I RADIOPARP trial. RADIOPARP is a monocentric prospective open‐label Phase I dose‐escalation trial evaluating the combination of breast radiotherapy and Olaparib in TNBC patients with inflammatory, locoregionally advanced or metastatic disease, or with residual disease after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Olaparib was orally given at increasing dose levels (50, 100, 150 or 200 mg twice a day [BID]); radiotherapy consisted of 50 Gy to the breast or chest wall with or without lymph node irradiation. Twenty‐four TNBC patients were enrolled between September 2017 and November 2019. Olaparib was escalated to 200 mg BID without dose‐limiting toxicities. At 1‐year follow‐up, no treatment‐related grade ≥3 toxicity was observed. One patient (4.2%) had persistent grade 2 adverse events (breast pain, fibrosis and deformity). There was no cardiac, pulmonary or digestive toxicity related to treatment. The 1‐year follow‐up report of the RADIOPARP Phase I trial, evaluating Olaparib associated with breast radiotherapy in TNBC patients, consequently demonstrated an excellent toxicity profile of this combination with few low‐grade adverse events.
Genome‐wide association studies of toxicity to oxaliplatin and fluoropyrimidine chemotherapy with or without cetuximab in 1800 patients with advanced colorectal cancer
Authors: Watts Katie , Wills Christopher , Madi Ayman , Palles Claire , Maughan Timothy S. , Kaplan Richard , Al‐Tassan Nada A. , Kerr Rachel , Kerr David , Gray Victoria , West Hannah , Houlston Richard S. , Escott‐Price Valentina , Cheadle Jeremy P.
Published: July 2021

Chemotherapies administered at normal therapeutic dosages can cause significant side‐effects and may result in early treatment discontinuation. Inter‐individual variation in toxicity highlights the need for biomarkers to personalise treatment. We sought to identify such biomarkers by conducting 40 genome‐wide association studies, together with gene and gene set analyses, for any toxicity and 10 individual toxicities in 1800 patients with advanced colorectal cancer treated with oxaliplatin and fluoropyrimidine chemotherapy ± cetuximab from the MRC COIN and COIN‐B trials (385 patients received FOLFOX, 360 FOLFOX + cetuximab, 707 XELOX and 348 XELOX + cetuximab). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), genes and gene sets that reached genome‐wide or suggestive significance were validated in independent patient groups. We found that MROH5 was significantly associated with neutropenia in MAGMA gene analyses in patients treated with XELOX (P = 6.6 × 10−7) and was independently validated in those receiving XELOX + cetuximab; pooled P = 3.7 × 10−7. rs13260246 at 8q21.13 was significantly associated with vomiting in patients treated with XELOX (odds ratio = 5.0, 95% confidence interval = 3.0‐8.3, P = 9.8 × 10−10) but was not independently replicated. SNPs at 139 loci had suggestive associations for toxicities and lead SNPs at five of these were independently validated (rs6030266 with diarrhoea, rs1546161 with hand‐foot syndrome, rs9601722 with neutropenia, rs13413764 with lethargy and rs4600090 with nausea; all with pooled P's < 5.0 × 10−6). In conclusion, the association of MROH5 with neutropenia and five other putative biomarkers warrant further investigation for their potential clinical utility. Despite our comprehensive genome‐wide analyses of large, well‐characterised, clinical trials, we found a lack of common variants with modest effect sizes associated with toxicities.
Aberrant expression of five miRNAs in papillary thyroid carcinomas
Authors: Qiao De‐hui , He Xue‐mei , Deng Xian , Ji Yi‐chi , Yang Hui , Cheng Lian , Zhou Xiang‐yu
Published: July 2021

Background

The miRNAs play critical roles in the progression of various tumors. Our study aimed to screen and identify miRNAs to investigate their diagnostic and prognostic value for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC).

Methods

miRNAs were evaluated in PTC (n = 30) tissues, A‐PTC (n = 30), benign nodules (n = 35) and A‐benign nodules (n = 35). The expression levels of five miRNAs were quantified using real‐time, quantitative PCR. ROC analysis was used to evaluate the miRNA diagnostic value.

Results

The expression of miR‐1296‐5p, miR‐1301‐3p, and miR‐532‐5p was significantly downregulated (p = 0.0001, p = 0.0006, p = 0.0024, respectively), while miR‐551b‐3p and miR‐455‐3p were significantly upregulated in PTC tissues compared to A‐PTC tissues (p = 0.0005, p = 0.0046, respectively). Interestingly, the expression of miR‐1296‐5p was downregulated, while miR‐551b‐3p and miR‐455‐3p were upregulated in the A‐PTC group compared to the A‐benign group. Moreover, the miR‐1296‐5p expression level was associated with tumor size, the number of foci and the TNM stage; the miR‐455‐3p expression level was correlated with patient age, tumor size, and TNM stage; and the miR‐532‐5p expression level was correlated with patient age, lymph node metastasis and TNM stage correspondingly. ROC analysis revealed that the AUCs for miR‐1301‐3p, miR‐1296‐5p, miR‐455‐3p, miR‐532‐5p, and miR‐551b‐3p were 0.773, 0.790, 0.783, 0.744, and 0.650, respectively.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that miR‐1296‐5p, miR‐1301‐3p, miR‐532‐5p, miR‐551b‐3p, and miR‐455‐3p are aberrantly expressed in papillary thyroid carcinomas and correlated with clinicopathological features. ROC curve analysis indicated that these five miRNAs have a potential diagnostic value. Consequently, we speculate that the five altered miRNAs may serve as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for PTC.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Viloxazine Extended‐Release Capsules in Pediatric Subjects With Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Nasser Azmi , Gomeni Roberto , Wang Zhao , Kosheleff Alisa R. , Xie Lanyi , Adeojo Lilian W. , Schwabe Stefan
Published: July 2021

Viloxazine extended‐release capsules (viloxazine ER; Qelbree) is a novel nonstimulant, recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of ADHD in pediatrics. Here, we characterize the pharmacokinetics (PK) of viloxazine and its major metabolite, 5‐HVLX‐gluc, using a population PK model and evaluate the impact of 1‐4 days of missed viloxazine ER doses on viloxazine PK. Data from 4 phase 3 trials in pediatric subjects treated with viloxazine ER were used to establish the PK model. Covariate analysis was conducted on the final base model. The impact of 1‐4 days of missed doses on steady‐state viloxazine PK was evaluated using Monte Carlo simulations. A 1‐compartmental linear model with first‐order absorption and elimination of the parent drug and first‐order metabolite formation and elimination properly described the population PK of viloxazine and 5‐HVLX‐gluc. Body weight impacted the systemic exposure of viloxazine and 5‐HVLX‐gluc. Predicted PK parameters at steady state (mean ± standard deviation) in children receiving viloxazine ER were determined. Cmax was 1.60 ± 0.70 μg/mL at 100 mg, 2.83 ± 1.31 μg/mL at 200 mg, and 5.61 ± 2.48 μg/mL at 400 mg. AUC0‐t was 19.29 ± 8.88 μg·h/mL at 100 mg, 34.72 ± 16.53 μg·h/mL at 200 mg, and 68.00 ± 28.51 μg·h/mL at 400 mg. PK parameters for adolescents receiving viloxazine ER were also determined. Cmax was 2.06 ± 0.90 μg/mL at 200 mg, 4.08 ± 1.67 μg/mL at 400 mg, and 6.49 ± 2.87 μg/mL at 600 mg. AUC0‐t was 25.78 ± 11.55 μg·h/mL at 200 mg, 50.80 ± 19.76 μg·h/mL at 400 mg, and 79.97 ± 36.91 μg·h/mL at 600 mg. Simulations revealed that, regardless of the duration of the dosing interruption, viloxazine concentration returned to steady‐state levels after approximately 2 days of once‐daily dosing of viloxazine ER.
Exogenous insulin‐like growth factor 1 attenuates cisplatin‐induced muscle atrophy in mice
Authors: Sakai Hiroyasu , Asami Maho , Naito Hiroaki , Kitora Satoko , Suzuki Yuta , Miyauchi Yu , Tachinooka Rei , Yoshida Satoshi , Kon Risako , Ikarashi Nobutomo , Chiba Yoshihiko , Kamei Junzo
Published: July 2021

Background

A reduction in the skeletal muscle mass worsens the prognosis of patients with various cancers. Our previous studies indicated that cisplatin administration to mice caused muscle atrophy. This is a concern for human patients receiving cisplatin. The insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1)/phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway stimulates the rate of protein synthesis in skeletal muscle. Thus, IGF‐I can be a central therapeutic target for preventing the loss of skeletal muscle mass in muscle atrophy, although it remains unclear whether pharmacological activation of the IGF‐1/PI3K/Akt pathway attenuates muscle atrophy induced by cisplatin. In this study, we examined whether exogenous recombinant human IGF‐1 attenuated cisplatin‐induced muscle atrophy.

Methods

Male C57BL/6J mice (8–9 weeks old) were injected with cisplatin or saline for four consecutive days. On Day 5, quadriceps muscles were isolated. Mecasermin (recombinant human IGF‐1) or the vehicle control was subcutaneously administered 30 min prior to cisplatin administration. A dietary restriction group achieving weight loss equivalent to that caused by cisplatin administration was used as a second control. C2C12 myotubes were treated with cisplatin with/without recombinant mouse IGF‐1. The skeletal muscle protein synthesis/degradation pathway was analysed by histological and biochemical methods.

Results

Cisplatin reduced protein level of IGF‐1 by about 85% compared with the vehicle group and also reduced IGF‐1/PI3K/Akt signalling in skeletal muscle. Under this condition, the protein levels of muscle ring finger protein 1 (MuRF1) and atrophy gene 1 (atrogin‐1) were increased in quadriceps muscles (MuRF1; 3.0 ± 0.1 folds, atrogin‐1; 3.0 ± 0.3 folds, P < 0.001, respectively). The administration of a combination of cisplatin and IGF‐1 significantly suppressed the cisplatin‐induced downregulation of IGF‐1/PI3K/Akt signalling and upregulation of MuRF1 and atrogin‐1 (up to 1.6 ± 0.3 and 1.5 ± 0.4 folds, P < 0.001, respectively), resulting in diminished muscular atrophy. IGF‐1 showed similar effects in cisplatin‐treated C2C12 myotubes, as well as the quadriceps muscle in mice.

Conclusions

The downregulation of IGF‐1 expression in skeletal muscle might be one of the factors playing an important role in the development of cisplatin‐induced muscular atrophy. Compensating for this downregulation with exogenous IGF‐1 suggests that it could be a therapeutic target for limiting the loss of skeletal muscle mass in cisplatin‐induced muscle atrophy.
Safety of COVID‐19 vaccines
Authors: Al Khames Aga Qutaiba A. , Alkhaffaf Waseem H. , Hatem Tagreed H. , Nassir Kawthar F. , Batineh Yazan , Dahham Abdullah T. , Shaban Dimah , Al Khames Aga Luma A. , Agha Manhal Y. R. , Traqchi Muaamar
Published: July 2021

This study is aimed to identify the adverse effects associated with three types of coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines. Approximately 1736 individuals agreed to participate in this study. The participants involved in the study were individuals who had received the first dose or full course (two doses) of the vaccine at least 30 days before the survey. A direct and interactive web‐based system interview with a paper and electronic version of the questionnaire was used for all participants. A total of 1736 randomized individuals were identified. The reactogenicity of the vaccines including pain, redness, urticaria, and swelling at the site of the injection was reported in 34.56% of the participants. Local site reaction was reported in more individuals who had Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines than those who received the Sinopharm vaccine. The systemic events were more common with AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines, symptoms reported were fatigue, body pain, headache, muscle pain, fever, and gastrointestinal side effects. There were no correlations between age or gender, and the duration of the adverse effects for the three vaccines. Swelling and severe allergic reaction of the eyelids, severe hypotension, generalized body aches, shortness of breath, weakness and numbness on the injected arm, acute hyperglycemia, severe chest pain, and fever more than 39°C were among the unusual signs and symptoms reported by the participants. Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and Sinopharm vaccines were found to be safe and Sinopharm vaccine showed a lower prevalence of adverse effects compared with the other vaccines. The duration and severity of adverse effects were not affected by age or gender. Unusual side effects should be closely monitored to establish determine they are linked to the immunization.
Design and synthesis of naphthalene‐based chiral strong cation exchangers and their application for chiral separation of basic drugs
Authors: Herciková Jana , Spálovská Dita , Frühauf Peter , Izák Pavel , Lindner Wolfgang , Kohout Michal
Published: July 2021

In continuation of our efforts to synthesize a highly dedicated strong cation exchanger, we introduce four chiral stationary phases based on a laterally substituted naphthalene core featuring chiral 2‐aminocyclohexansulfonic acid as the chiral cation‐exchange site. The selectors were modified with two different terminal units, which enabled immobilization to the silica support by thiol–ene radical reaction or azide–yne click chemistry. The chromatographic parameters of these chiral stationary phases were determined using a set of chiral amines, mainly from the family of β‐blocker pharmaceuticals. The chiral stationary phases immobilized by means of click chemistry were found to be superior to those possessing the sulfide linker to the silica support. The chromatographic results and visualization of density functional theory‐calculated conformations of the selectors hint at a combination of a steric and electronic effect of the triazole ring in the course of chiral resolution of the target analytes.
Modal completeness of sublogics of the interpretability logic IL
Authors: Kurahashi Taishi , Okawa Yuya
Published: July 2021

We study modal completeness and incompleteness of several sublogics of the interpretability logic . We introduce the sublogic , and prove that is sound and complete with respect to Veltman prestructures which are introduced by Visser. Moreover, we prove the modal completeness of twelve logics between and with respect to Veltman prestructures. On the other hand, we prove that eight natural sublogics of are modally incomplete. Finally, we prove that these incomplete logics are complete with respect to generalized Veltman prestructures. As a consequence of these investigations, we obtain that the twenty logics studied in this paper are all decidable.
Interstitial duplication of 20q11.22q13.11: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Goetzinger Logan , Starks Rachel D. , Dillahunt Kyle , Major Heather , Nagy Jaime M. , Sidhu Alpa
Published: July 2021

Background

Reports of interstitial duplication of chromosome 20q11 are rare with only nine published patients to date.

Methods

We performed karyotype and chromosomal microarray analysis on a peripheral blood sample for our patient and reviewed the genes in the region to provide genotype–phenotype correlation.

Results

Clinical features of the patient include minor dysmorphic facial features, shorthands and feet, bilateral conductive hearing loss, global developmental delay, and behavioral issues with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Together with previously published cases of 20q11 duplication, we show that patients with overlapping duplications share a similar clinical phenotype of dysmorphic craniofacial features and developmental delay.

Conclusion

We report an 8‐year‐old girl with a 9.1 Mb interstitial duplication of chromosome 20q11.22q13.11. Our observations suggest that a novel duplication syndrome and documentation of similar cases will further help clarify the phenotype.
Development of pulsed‐laser three‐dimensional imaging flash lidar using APD arrays
Authors: Hao Qun , Tao Yu , Cao Jie , Cheng Yang
Published: July 2021

Over the past two decades, pulsed‐laser three‐dimensional imaging flash lidar using avalanche photodiode (APD) arrays has attracted extensive research interest due to its great potential for both military and civilian applications. This invited paper gives a brief review of the state‐of‐art pulsed‐laser three‐dimensional imaging flash lidar using APD arrays. The principle of the pulsed‐laser three‐dimensional imaging flash lidar using APD arrays is briefly introduced. According to the working mode of the APD arrays, we divide the current flash lidar into two types: the linear‐mode and the Geiger‐mode. The performances of the pulsed‐laser three‐dimensional imaging flash lidar using APD arrays working at linear‐mode and the Geiger‐mode are summarized. The opportunities and challenges in this field are also discussed. This review is expected to provide a snapshot of the current landscape of flash lidar using APD arrays to attract more interest in this field.
MASiVar: Multisite, multiscanner, and multisubject acquisitions for studying variability in diffusion weighted MRI
Authors: Cai Leon Y. , Yang Qi , Kanakaraj Praitayini , Nath Vishwesh , Newton Allen T. , Edmonson Heidi A. , Luci Jeffrey , Conrad Benjamin N. , Price Gavin R. , Hansen Colin B. , Kerley Cailey I. , Ramadass Karthik , Yeh Fang‐Cheng , Kang Hakmook , Garyfallidis Eleftherios , Descoteaux Maxime , Rheault Francois , Schilling Kurt G. , Landman Bennett A.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Diffusion‐weighted imaging allows investigators to identify structural, microstructural, and connectivity‐based differences between subjects, but variability due to session and scanner biases is a challenge.

Methods

To investigate DWI variability, we present MASiVar, a multisite data set consisting of 319 diffusion scans acquired at 3 T from b = 1000 to 3000 s/mm2 across 14 healthy adults, 83 healthy children (5 to 8 years), three sites, and four scanners as a publicly available, preprocessed, and de‐identified data set. With the adult data, we demonstrate the capacity of MASiVar to simultaneously quantify the intrasession, intersession, interscanner, and intersubject variability of four common DWI processing approaches: (1) a tensor signal representation, (2) a multi‐compartment neurite orientation dispersion and density model, (3) white‐matter bundle segmentation, and (4) structural connectomics. Respectively, we evaluate region‐wise fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, and principal eigenvector; region‐wise CSF volume fraction, intracellular volume fraction, and orientation dispersion index; bundle‐wise shape, volume, fractional anisotropy, and length; and whole connectome correlation and maximized modularity, global efficiency, and characteristic path length.

Results

We plot the variability in these measures at each level and find that it consistently increases with intrasession to intersession to interscanner to intersubject effects across all processing approaches and that sometimes interscanner variability can approach intersubject variability.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the potential of MASiVar to more globally investigate DWI variability across multiple levels and processing approaches simultaneously and suggests harmonization between scanners for multisite analyses should be considered before inference of group differences on subjects.
Phase angle as predictor of malnutrition in people living with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Osuna‐Padilla Iván Armando , Salazar Arenas María de los Angeles , Rodríguez‐ Moguel Nadia Carolina , Aguilar‐ Vargas Adriana , Montano Rivas Julia Aurora , Ávila‐Ríos Santiago
Published: July 2021

Background

Phase angle (PhA), measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) has been studied as an indicator of survival in people living with HIV (PLWH). However, it remains unclear whether PhA is associated with malnutrition or low CD4+ T‐cell counts.

Objective

In this study, we assessed the discriminative capacity of PhA for malnutrition detection using Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria in PLWH, aiming to propose cutoff points for this population.

Methods

This retrospective observational study included 427 adult PLWH (13% female). Participants were classified according to malnutrition status by using GLIM criteria. Body composition was assessed by using BIA. CD4+ T‐cell counts were determined by flow cytometry.

Results

According to GLIM criteria, 30% of the participants were malnourished. Multivariate regression analysis showed that PhA (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 0.10; 95% CI, 0.05–0.18; P < 0.001), fat‐mass percentage (adjusted OR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.82–0.90; P < 0.001), and male sex (adjusted OR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.09–0.76; P = 0.013) were independently associated with malnutrition. A PhA cutoff of 5.45° in men and 4.95° in women may predict malnutrition with sensitivity and specificity >70%.

Conclusion

PhA could be a valid, useful, and simple predictor of malnutrition in PLWH.
Preliminary study to evaluate ethanedinitrile (C2N2) for quarantine treatment of four wood destroying pests
Authors: Park Min‐Goo , Ren Yonglin , Lee Byung‐Ho
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Methyl bromide is an ozone depleting substance and is still being used for quarantine treatment of wood products and logs. Ethanedinitrile (C2N2) is a new potential alternative fumigant and has been investigated as a timber fumigant because it has shown better penetration through timber and responds fast to insects and nematodes. This article reports on laboratory and commercial‐scale trials with C2N2 for important wood destroying pests namely Tomicus piniperda (Pine bark beetle) adults, Hyphantria cunea (Fall webworm) lavae, Reticulitermes speratus (Japanese Termite) adults and Cryphalus fulvus (Scolytidae) (Yellow minute bark beetle) which naturally infests pine logs.

RESULTS

Tomicus pi:niperda adults were more tolerance than H. cunea lavae and R. speratus adults with lethal concentration × time affecting 99% mortality (LCt99) values of 27.84, 7.49 and 3.30 g h m−3, respectively. Ethanedinitrile shows exceptionally high toxicity to adult R. speratus which was almost 26 times more toxic than methyl bromide. The complete control of larvae and adults stages of C. fulvus was achieved at concentration × time (Ct) products from 89.6 g h m−3 in a 6–8 L fumigation chamber. Temperature‐depending trials on C. fulvus were conducted with C2N2 doses of 30 at 21 ± 6 and 40 g m−3 at 9 ± 3 and 2 ± 2 °C for 24 h. The Ct products of 182.2, 227.8 and 268.6 g h m−3 were obtained and C. fulvus was completely controlled at all tested temperatures.

CONCLUSION

Ethanedinitrile could offer quarantine treatment for wood products and logs for the control of wood destroying insect pests and termites.
Estimating fetal exposure to the P‐gp substrates, corticosteroids, by PBPK modeling to inform prevention of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Anoshchenko Olena , Milad Mark A. , Unadkat Jashvant D.
Published: July 2021

We have previously developed a maternal‐fetal physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (m‐f PBPK) model to dynamically predict (and verify) fetal‐maternal exposure to drugs that passively diffuse across the placenta. Here, we extended the application of this model to dynamically predict fetal exposure to drugs which are effluxed by placental P‐glycoprotein, namely the antenatal corticosteroids (ACS; dexamethasone [DEX], and betamethasone [BET]). To do so, we estimated both the placental P‐gp mediated efflux clearance (CL) and the passive diffusion CL of the ACS. The efficacy and toxicity of the currently used maternal ACS dosing regimens to prevent neonatal respiratory distress syndrome could be improved by altering their dosing regimens. Therefore, to illustrate the utility of our m‐f PBPK model, we used it to design alternative dosing regimens of DEX and BET that could potentially improve their efficacy and reduce their toxicity. The redesigned dosing regimens are convenient to administer, maintain maternal‐fetal exposure (area under the concentration‐time curve [AUC]) or maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) or both (DEX and BET) or minimize maternal exposure while maintaining fetal drug plasma concentrations above the minimum therapeutic threshold of 1 ng/ml for 48 h (BET only; based on efficacy data in sheep). To our knowledge, this is the first study to dynamically predict fetal plasma concentrations of placental P‐gp effluxed drugs. Our approach and our m‐f PBPK model could be used in the future to predict maternal‐fetal exposure to any drug and to design alternative dosing regimens of the drug.
Prediction of the drug–drug interaction potential of the α1‐acid glycoprotein bound, CYP3A4/CYP2C9 metabolized oncology drug, erdafitinib
Authors: De Zwart Loeckie , Snoeys Jan , Jacobs Frank , Li Lilian Y. , Poggesi Italo , Verboven Peter , Goris Ivo , Scheers Ellen , Wynant Inneke , Monshouwer Mario , Mamidi Rao N. V. S.
Published: July 2021

Erdafitinib is a potent oral pan‐fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibitor being developed as oncology drug for patients with alterations in the fibroblast growth factor receptor pathway. Erdafitinib binds preferentially to α1‐acid glycoprotein (AGP) and is primarily metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 and 3A4. This article describes a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for erdafitinib to assess the drug–drug interaction (DDI) potential of CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 inhibitors and CYP3A4/CYP2C9 inducers on erdafitinib pharmacokinetics (PK) in patients with cancer exhibiting higher AGP levels and in populations with different CYP2C9 genotypes. Erdafitinib's DDI potential as a perpetrator for transporter inhibition and for time‐dependent inhibition and/or induction of CYP3A was also evaluated. The PBPK model incorporated input parameters from various in vitro and clinical PK studies, and the model was verified using a clinical DDI study with itraconazole and fluconazole. Erdafitinib clearance in the PBPK model consisted of multiple pathways (CYP2C9/3A4, renal, intestinal; additional hepatic clearance), making the compound less susceptible to DDIs. In poor‐metabolizing CYP2C9 populations carrying the CYP2C9*3/*3 genotype, simulations shown clinically relevant increase in erdafitinib plasma concentrations. Simulated luminal and enterocyte concentration showed potential risk of P‐glycoprotein inhibition with erdafitinib in the first 5 h after dosing, and simulations showed this interaction can be avoided by staggering erdafitinib and digoxin dosing. Other than a simulated ~ 60% exposure reduction with strong CYP3A/2C inducers such as rifampicin, other DDI liabilities were minimal and considered not clinically relevant.
An Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer – New Generation (IASI‐NG) channel selection for numerical weather prediction
Authors: Vittorioso F. , Guidard V. , Fourrié N.
Published: July 2021

In the framework of the EUMETSAT Polar System–Second Generation (EPS‐SG) preparation, a new generation of the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI) instrument has been designed. The IASI‐New Generation (IASI‐NG) will measure radiances at a doubled spectral resolution compared to its predecessor and with a signal‐to‐noise ratio improved by a factor of 2. The large amount of data arising from IASI‐NG will present many challenges for data transmission, storage and assimilation. Moreover, the full set of measured radiances will not be exploitable in an operational numerical weather prediction (NWP) context. For these reasons, an appropriate IASI‐NG channel selection in needed, aiming to select the most informative channels for NWP models. Therefore, the standard iterative channel selection methodology, based on the optimal linear estimation theory and assuming spectrally correlated errors, has been applied to a set of simulated data of the IASI‐NG spectrum. The entire simulated IASI‐NG spectrum has been first investigated, while finally focusing the channel selection procedure on the most interesting wavelength ranges for the assimilation. Through this process, a total of 500 channels have been chosen to serve as a basis for future channel selections to be provided to NWP centres – 277 temperature, 23 surface‐sensitive and 200 water vapour channels. One‐dimensional variational (1D‐Var) assimilation experiments show that using this selected set of channels leads to a reduction of the standard deviation of the error in temperature (up to 30%) and water vapour (up to 50%) profiles with respect to the information.
Event‐triggered adaptive tracking control for nonlinear systems with predefined time‐varying output constraints based on Nussbaum design
Authors: Zhang Jiaming , Niu Ben , Duan Peiyong , Zhao Ping , Wang Huanqing
Published: July 2021

In this article, an event‐triggered adaptive tracking control scheme is proposed for uncertain nonlinear systems with the predefined time‐varying output constraint requirements by using barrier Lyapunov function (BLF) method. One of the significant novelties in the proposed design procedure is that the event‐triggered control strategy is first designed jointly with nonlinear systems under the predefined time‐varying output constraint requirements, such that the communication resources are effectively saved. Then, we set a time in advance to make the systems begin obeying the constraint requirements before running the time by using a shifting function nested in the first BLF. Meanwhile, the requirement (the initial value of the coordinate transformation needs to be in the constraints) is released by using the shifting function. For the unknown control gains in the considered system, a Nussbaum design procedure is employed to eliminate the effects of the unknown control gains. In addition, it is proved that all signals in the whole closed‐loop system are bounded and the output constraint requirements are not violated. In the end, the simulation results illustrate the validity of the proposed scheme through a practical example.
Analytical thinking, Little's Law understanding, and stock‐flow performance: two empirical studies
Authors: Hendijani Rosa
Published: July 2021

Stocks and flows are the foundations of dynamic systems. Most people have difficulties inferring the behavior of a stock from its flows. Recent studies have argued that understanding of stock‐flows can improve if individuals engage in analytical thinking. In this study, we examine the effect of analytical thinking and the mediating effect of Little's Law understanding on stock‐flow performance. Little's Law is one of the fundamental laws of queueing systems. Queueing systems are made of stocks and flows and their components, including arrivals, departures, and queue are the inflow, outflow, and accumulation in stock‐flow systems. Thus, it can be predicted that grasping Little's Law can mediate the effect of analytical thinking on stock‐flow performance. In order to examine the research hypotheses, two empirical studies were designed. The results supported our hypotheses in both studies. Analytical thinking had a positive effect on stock‐flow performance. Little's Law understanding partially mediated this effect. © 2021 System Dynamics Society.
Surface acoustic wave relative humidity sensor based on sputtering SiO2 film
Authors: Yan Xiaopeng , Li Cuiping , Zhao Lei , Tian Shuzhen , Zhang Zeyu , Li Mingji , Li Hongji , Qian Lirong , Gong Xiaonan , Huang Yihang , Hou Tao , Bai Haibin , Yang Baohe
Published: July 2021

A surface acoustic wave (SAW) relative humidity (RH) sensor was prepared by sputtering SiO2 sensing film on the total surface of an SAW resonator. The prepared humidity sensor exhibits good linear relationship under wide RH range of 10%–80%. Small hysteresis is observed during the adsorption and desorption processes. The sensitivity of the sensor is −1.14 kHz/% for the adsorption process and −1.06 kHz/% for the desorption process. The sensing mechanism of the sensor can be explained from the mass loading effect of the SiO2 film. The response time is 6.0 s and the recovery time is 21.3 s when the RH switches between 10% and 70%. Moreover, the SAW sensor also shows good repeatability and stability due to the high adhesion of the sputtering SiO2 film to the substrate.
MOFs‐Derived Fusiform In2O3 Mesoporous Nanorods Anchored with Ultrafine CdZnS Nanoparticles for Boosting Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Yang Hongli , Tang Jiaqi , Luo Yong , Zhan Xiaoqiang , Liang Zhao , Jiang Lan , Hou Huilin , Yang Weiyou
Published: July 2021

The development of efficient visible‐light‐driven photocatalysts is one of the critically important issues for solar hydrogen production. Herein, high‐efficiency visible‐light‐driven In2O3/CdZnS hybrid photocatalysts are explored by a facile oil‐bath method, in which ultrafine CdZnS nanoparticles are anchored on NH2‐MIL‐68‐derived fusiform In2O3 mesoporous nanorods. It is disclosed that the as‐prepared In2O3/CdZnS hybrid photocatalysts exhibit enhanced visible‐light harvesting, improves charges transfer and separation as well as abundant active sites. Correspondingly, their visible‐light‐driven H2 production rate is significantly enhanced for more than 185 times to that of pristine In2O3 nanorods, and superior to most of In2O3‐based photocatalysts ever reported, representing their promising applications in advanced photocatalysts.
Synthesis of two new Hf‐MOFs with UiO‐66 and CAU‐22 structure employing 2,5‐pyrazinedicarboxylic acid as linker molecule.
Authors: Poschmann Mirjam P. M. , Waitschat Steve , Reinsch Helge , Stock Norbert
Published: July 2021

Two different metal‐organic frameworks containing 2,5‐pyrazinedicarboxylate (PzDC2−) as linker molecule and hexanuclear {Hf6(μ3‐O)4(μ3‐OH)4} clusters were obtained under solvothermal reaction conditions at 120 °C. Formic acid as the solvent leads to the formation of Hf‐UiO‐66‐PzDC ([Hf6(μ3‐O)4(μ3‐OH)4(OH)4(H2O)4(PzDC)4]), while the reaction in a water/formic acid mixture resulted in the crystallisation of Hf‐CAU‐22‐PzDC ([Hf6(μ3‐O)4(μ3‐OH)4(μ‐OH)2(OH)4(H2O)4(PzDC)3]). The UiO‐66 compound is a new member of the large class of UiO‐66‐type MOFs. Hf‐CAU‐22 contains a chain of condensed {Hf6O4(OH)4(μ‐OH)4} clusters as the IBU, which is new to Hf‐MOF chemistry. For both MOFs, a detailed characterization, i. e. structure refinement from powder X‐ray diffraction data, 1H‐NMR‐spectroscopy, elemental and thermogravimetric analyses and N2 sorption measurements, was carried out. Hf‐UiO‐66‐PzDC undergoes a dehydration around 215 °C and framework decomposition starts at 315 °C. From N2 sorption measurements, a maximum BET surface area of 460 m2/g was determined. The dehydration of Hf‐CAU‐22‐PzDC starts at 200 °C and the framework decomposition at 325 °C. The BET surface area was determined to 170 m2/g.
The Gambling Permeation? Cultural, Social and Economic Intersections Between Games and Gambling
Authors: Wardle Heather
Published: July 2021

Games, digital or otherwise, have always taken inspiration from their broader social, cultural and economic surroundings. They have been used to attempt to teach moral values and changed to reflect new, more modern, ideals. Their recent development is contingent on changing technological infrastructure, giving rise to a multi-billion pound entertainment commodity. Developing concurrently, gambling commodities are also deeply tied to technology with ever changing modern gambling industries reflecting shifting normative values about the role and position of gambling in our lives. As gambling has become more acceptable, more “normal”, its visibility has vastly increased. Against this backdrop it, perhaps, feels increasingly obvious that gambling would increasingly permeate digital games: game designers look to mechanics which hook people into products; games reflect broader societal trends and there is a pressing need to make returns on investments, commoditising play at a hitherto unknown scale.
Deductive Synthesis of Programs with Pointers: Techniques, Challenges, Opportunities
Authors: Itzhaky Shachar , Peleg Hila , Polikarpova Nadia , Rowe Reuben N. S. , Sergey Ilya
Published: July 2021

This paper presents the main ideas behind deductive synthesis of heap-manipulating program and outlines present challenges faced by this approach as well as future opportunities for its applications.
Learning Union of Integer Hypercubes with Queries
Authors: Markgraf Oliver , Stan Daniel , Lin Anthony W.
Published: July 2021

We study the problem of learning a finite union of integer (axis-aligned) hypercubes over the d-dimensional integer lattice, i.e., whose edges are parallel to the coordinate axes. This is a natural generalization of the classic problem in the computational learning theory of learning rectangles. We provide a learning algorithm with access to a minimally adequate teacher (i.e. membership and equivalence oracles) that solves this problem in polynomial-time, for any fixed dimension d. Over a non-fixed dimension, the problem subsumes the problem of learning DNF boolean formulas, a central open problem in the field. We have also provided extensions to handle infinite hypercubes in the union, as well as showing how subset queries could improve the performance of the learning algorithm in practice. Our problem has a natural application to the problem of monadic decomposition of quantifier-free integer linear arithmetic formulas, which has been actively studied in recent years. In particular, a finite union of integer hypercubes correspond to a finite disjunction of monadic predicates over integer linear arithmetic (without modulo constraints). Our experiments suggest that our learning algorithms substantially outperform the existing algorithms.