bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bulk Rashba Spin Splitting and Dirac Surface State in p‐Type (Bi0.9Sb0.1)2Se3 Single Crystal
Authors: Ghose Pradeepta Kumar , Bandyopadhyay Subhadeep , Dalui Tamal Kumar , Tseng Jochi , Dey Jayjit Kumar , Tomar Ruchi , Chakraverty Suvankar , Majumdar Subham , Dasgupta Indra , Giri Saurav
Published: December 2021

Herein, bulk Rashba spin splitting (RSS) and associated Dirac surface state in (Bi0.9Sb0.1)2Se3, exhibiting dominant p‐type conductivity is reported. It is argued that the synchrotron diffraction studies that origin of the bulk RSS is due to a structural transition to a non‐centrosymmetric phase below ≈30 K. The Shubnikov–de Haas–Van oscillations are observed in the magnetoresistance curves at low temperature. The extrapolation of the linear plots for both the and component in the Landau level fan diagram meet at n = 0.40(6) for 1/H = 0, which is close to n = 0.5 is recommended for the Dirac particles. The magnetization results at low temperature exhibit substantial orbital magnetization consistent with the bulk RSS. The bulk RSS and Dirac surface states are confirmed by the first‐principles density functional theory calculations. The coexistence of orbital magnetism, bulk RSS, and Dirac surface state is unique for p‐type (Bi0.9Sb0.1)2Se3, making it an ideal candidate for spintronic applications.
Determination of N7‐glycidamide guanine adducts in human blood DNA following exposure to dietary acrylamide using liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Jones Donald J. L. , Singh Raj , Emms Victoria , Farmer Peter B. , Grant Derryn , Quinn Paulene , Maxwell Colleen , Mina Antria , Ng Leong L. , Schumacher Sandra , Britton Robert G.
Published: December 2021

Rationale

Acrylamide is classified as a probable human carcinogen that is metabolised to glycidamide, which can covalently bind to DNA. The aim of this study was to investigate the formation of N7‐glycidamide guanine (N7‐GA‐Gua) adducts in human blood DNA following exposure to acrylamide present in carbohydrate‐rich foods as part of the normal human diet.

Methods

Lymphocyte DNA was extracted from blood samples obtained from healthy human volunteers. Following thermal depurination of the DNA samples, N7‐GA‐Gua adducts were quantified using a validated liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) method incorporating a stable isotope labelled internal standard. Estimated dietary acrylamide intake was recorded by completion of food frequency questionnaires for the 24 hours prior to volunteer blood donation.

Results

An LC/MS/MS method was validated with a limit of detection of 0.25 fmol and a lower limit of quantitation of 0.50 fmol on column. N7‐GA‐Gua adducts were detected in human blood DNA with the levels ranging between 0.3 to 6.3 adducts per 108 nucleotides. The acrylamide intake was calculated from the food frequency questionnaires ranging between 20.0 and 78.6 μg.

Conclusions

Identification and quantification of N7‐GA‐Gua adducts in the blood DNA of healthy volunteers suggests that dietary acrylamide exposure may lead to the formation of DNA adducts. This important finding warrants further investigation to ascertain a correlation between environmental/dietary acrylamide exposure and levels of DNA adducts.
Mixed ‐synthesis for ‐stability
Authors: Apkarian Pierre , Noll Dominikus
Published: December 2021

We consider stabilization and performance optimization of nonlinear controlled systems, where the nonlinearity satisfies a sector constraint asymptotically. This leads to optimization of the closed loop peak‐to‐peak system norm subject to‐performance constraints. Nonlinear controlled systems tuned successfully by this novel approach are locally exponentially stable and globally BIBO‐stable.
Does where they start affect where they finish? A multimethod investigation of the role of stocking location on survival and dispersal of hatchery‐reared Lake Sturgeon in Missouri River tributaries
Authors: Moore Michael J. , Paukert Craig P. , Bonnot Thomas W. , Brooke Brandon L. , Moore Travis L.
Published: December 2021

Despite ongoing Lake Sturgeon recovery efforts, little is known about the role of stocking location on survival and dispersal to nursery habitats. We stocked age‐0 Lake Sturgeon at four sites in two adjacent Missouri River tributaries and used telemetry to examine whether survival and dispersal differed among stocking sites and rivers. Survival estimates from Barker Cormack‐Jolly‐Seber models that incorporated both receiver detections and auxiliary manual detections were higher than spatial capture‐recapture models that only included receiver detections. Barker model overwinter survival averaged 53% and provided information to adjust individual censoring in spatial capture‐recapture model dispersal estimates. Within the two rivers, stocking site had little effect on activity centers with individuals from both sites converging upon similar locations by the end of the study period. However, dispersal distance and direction differed among stocking locations. Our overwinter survival estimates of stocked age‐0 Lake Sturgeon in Missouri River tributaries were equal to or higher than other studied populations suggesting stocked juveniles may be contributing to the recovering population. Tributaries were important overwintering nursery locations with high stream fidelity that may contribute to future homing among adults.
Synthesis of Spirooxindole Analogs Tethered Pyrazole Scaffold as Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors
Authors: Shahidul Islam Mohammad , Al‐Majid Abdullah Mohammed , Azam Mohammad , Prakash Verma Ved , Barakat Assem , Haukka Matti , Domingo Luis R. , Elgazar Abdullah A. , Mira Amira , Badria Farid A.
Published: December 2021

A new series of spirooxindole analogs tethered pyrazole scaffold constructed via [3+2] cycloaddition (32CA) reaction starting from the new chalcone named (E)‐3‐(5‐chloro‐3‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl)‐1‐(5‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl)prop‐2‐en‐1‐one which confirmed by single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Synthesized spirooxindole analogs were evaluated for their neuroprotection through the inhibition of acetylcholine esterase enzyme using Ellman's method. Compounds 9 w, 9 e and 9 x showed the strongest acetylcholine esterase inhibition (AChEI) with IC50 values of 5.7, 7.8 and 8.3 μM, respectively. Obviously, the incorporation of NO2 group into isatin 5th position and N‐methylglycine (sarcosine) play a crucial role for the activity which lead to compound 9 w had the most potent inhibitory activity with IC50 value of 5.7 μM. Molecular docking was used to study their interaction with the active site of hAChE. These 32CA reactions takes place via a one‐step mechanism with a high polar character as a consequence of the supernucleophilic character of azomethine yildes and the strong electrophilic character of ethylenes.
Mechanical and biodegradation properties of fresh and rotten jicama starches based bioplastics
Authors: binti Nazree Anne Aleesa , Adrus Nadia , Ab Muis Zarina , Hashim Haslenda , Baharulrazi Norfhairna , Che Man Siti Hajjar , Zainal Alam Muhd Nazrul Hisham , A. Majid Rohah , Johnson Edwina , Abdullah Abdul Razak , Chuprat Bahrul Razha , Ali Fathillah , Jamaluddin Jamarosliza
Published: December 2021

Recently, starch‐based bioplastics have been proposed to curb the problem caused by conventional plastics. Yet, current bioplastics are made from food sources which cause competition with food industries. Hence, we have produced bioplastics using rotten starch‐based material to tackle this problem. In this study, a comprehensive investigation has been carried out on the preparation of bioplastics extracted from fresh jicama (FJ) and rotten jicama (RJ). Specifically, glycerol as the plasticizer and starch contents were varied to obtain bioplastic with the optimum properties via tensile, chemical and thermal characterizations. The results have confirmed that both FJ and RJ starch bioplastics possessed similar characteristics in terms of physical appearance, transparency and chemical functionalities. Moreover, the tensile and thermal properties of RJ and FJ bioplastics fall within the range specification for packaging applications. FJ bioplastic has maximum stress of 0.43 MPa and maximum strain of 50 MPa at an optimized concentration (St31%_gly6.75) which tells that they formed stronger and higher flexibility than RJ bioplastics. Importantly, the RJ bioplastics have a faster biodegradation rate compared to FJ bioplastics. In conclusion, bioplastics from rotten starch have properties as good as FJ and served as a feasible platform for the development of bioplastics from rotten sources.
Evolving fetal phenotypes and clinical impact of progressive prenatal exome sequencing pathways: cohort study
Authors: Mone F. , Abu Subieh H. , Doyle S. , Hamilton S. , Mcmullan D. J. , Allen S. , Marton T. , Williams D. , Kilby M. D.
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To determine (1) the diagnostic yield and turnaround time (TAT) of two consecutive prenatal exome sequencing (ES) pathways, (2) the evolution of the fetal phenotype and (3) the clinical impact of detecting causative pathogenic variants and incidental findings.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort analysis of prospectively collected fetal cases that underwent trio ES in the presence of a structural anomaly and normal chromosomal microarray testing in the West Midlands Regional Genetics Laboratory, Birmingham, UK. The study included two phases: (1) between July 2018 and October 2020, the clinical pathway from the Prenatal Assessment of Genomes and Exomes (PAGE) study was adopted and involved prenatal trio ES based on a panel of 1542 development disorder genes and case selection by a multidisciplinary team; (2) between October 2020 and July 2021, prenatal trio ES investigation was based on the National Health Service (NHS) England R21 pathway, with definitive inclusion criteria and a panel of 1205 prenatally relevant genes. Deep phenotyping was performed throughout pregnancy and postnatally.

Results

A total of 54 cases were included. The diagnostic yield before vs after R21 pathway implementation was 28.0% (7/25) and 55.2% (16/29), respectively (P = 0.04). The respective values for mean TAT were 54.0 days (range, 14–213 days) and 14.2 days (range, 3–29 days). In cases in which a causative pathogenic variant was identified and in which the pregnancy reached the third trimester, additional anomalies were detected between the second and third trimesters in 73.3% (11/15) of cases, predominantly secondary to progressive hydropic features (3/11 (27.3%)), arthrogryposis (3/11 (27.3%)) or brain anomaly (2/11 (18.2%)). In three cases, a variant of uncertain significance was reclassified to likely pathogenic based on postnatal information. Detection of a causative pathogenic variant had a significant clinical impact in 78.3% (18/23) of cases, most frequently affecting decision‐making regarding the course of the pregnancy and neonatal management (7/18 (38.9%)).

Conclusions

Prenatal ES using the NHS England R21 pathway showed great promise when applied to this cohort, allowing a genetic diagnosis to be made in over half of preselected cases with a fetal structural anomaly on ultrasound. Monitoring and real‐time updating of fetal phenotype and reclassification of variants based on postnatal findings is vital to increase the clinical impact that is already evident from this emerging genomic technology. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Early imaging predictors of fetal cerebral ischemic injury in monochorionic twin pregnancy complicated by spontaneous single intrauterine death
Authors: Shinar S. , Harris K. , Van Mieghem T. , Lewi L. , Morency A. M. , Blaser S. , Ryan G.
Published: December 2021

Objective

Monochorionic twin pregnancies are at increased risk of single intrauterine death (sIUD) and subsequent brain injury in the surviving twin owing to shared placentation. We assessed the association between middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity (MCA‐PSV) and cerebral injury on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and examined the association between cerebral findings on diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) and those on T2‐weighted imaging following spontaneous sIUD.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of monochorionic pregnancies complicated by spontaneous sIUD followed at a tertiary center between January 2008 and January 2020. Pregnancies with sIUD following laser treatment, those with selective feticide, double IUD occurring on the same day or sIUD before 14 weeks' gestation were excluded, as were cases in which MCA‐PSV was not measured or DWI‐MRI was not performed. The ability of MCA‐PSV Doppler to predict subsequent cerebral injury on MRI was assessed, and DWI findings were analyzed and compared with those on susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI) and T2‐weighted MRI to determine its diagnostic accuracy.

Results

We assessed 64 monochorionic pregnancies complicated by spontaneous sIUD. Of these, 47 (73.4%) pregnancies underwent fetal brain MRI and met the inclusion criteria. Sixteen (34.0%) of these fetuses demonstrated cerebral injury on MRI. The median interval between the diagnosis of sIUD and MRI examination was 5 days. Fetuses with increased MCA‐PSV > 1.5 multiples of the median (MoM) following sIUD were significantly more likely to demonstrate cerebral injury on MRI than were those with normal MCA‐PSV (68.8% vs 38.7%; P = 0.05). The sensitivity and specificity of MCA‐PSV > 1.5 MoM for predicting cerebral injury on MRI were 68.8% (95% CI, 41.3–88.9%) and 61.3% (95% CI, 42.2–78.2%), respectively. Patterns of early cerebral injury on T2‐weighted and SWI‐MRI included acute or subacute tissue swelling (n = 6), parenchymal atrophy (n = 7), loss of cortical ribbon (n = 1) and hemorrhage (n = 8). Early MRI within approximately 2 weeks after the diagnosis of sIUD demonstrated abnormal DWI along with coexisting SWI and T2‐weighted sequelae in 56.3% (9/16) of cases. When DWI was normal and a second MRI examination was performed later (n = 7), there were no ischemic changes evident on T2‐weighted imaging.

Conclusions

Increased MCA‐PSV is associated with, but predicts poorly, cerebral injury after sIUD. Early MRI with DWI within approximately 2 weeks after the diagnosis of sIUD is valuable in identifying any cerebral injury. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Catalytic antimicrobial therapy using nanozymes
Authors: Wang Qian , Jiang Jing , Gao Lizeng
Published: December 2021

Nanozymes are nanomaterials with enzyme‐like characteristics, which catalyze the conversion of enzyme substrates and follow enzymatic kinetics under physiological conditions. As a new generation of artificial enzymes, nanozymes provide alternative approaches for those upon enzymatic catalysis. Compared with natural enzymes, nanozymes have the advantages of simple preparation, good stability and low cost, which makes nanozymes promising for application in many fields, such as antimicrobial infection treatment. Many studies have reported that nanozymes are capable of killing a number of pathogenic bacteria with resistance, fungi as well as viruses, and have shown great curative effects for diseases caused by these pathogens. Herein, we summarize the application of nanozymes for antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal therapies and outline the issues needing resolution in the future.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Infectious Disease
Differentiation of Cerebral Neoplasms with Vessel Size Imaging (VSI)
Authors: Foda Asmaa , Kellner Elias , Gunawardana Asanka , Gao Xiang , Janz Martin , Kufner Anna , Khalil Ahmed A. , Geran Rohat , Mekle Ralf , Fiebach Jochen B. , Galinovic Ivana
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Cerebral neoplasms of various histological origins may show comparable appearances on conventional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Vessel size imaging (VSI) is an MRI technique that enables noninvasive assessment of microvasculature by providing quantitative estimates of microvessel size and density. In this study, we evaluated the potential of VSI to differentiate between brain tumor types based on their microvascular morphology.

Methods

Using a clinical 3T MRI scanner, VSI was performed on 25 patients with cerebral neoplasms, 10 with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), 8 with primary CNS lymphoma (PCNSL) and 7 with cerebral lung cancer metastasis (MLC). Following the postprocessing of VSI maps, mean vessel diameter (vessel size index, vsi) and microvessel density (Q) were compared across tumors, peritumoral areas, and healthy tissues.

Results

The MLC tumors have larger and less dense microvasculature compared to PCNSLs in terms of vsi and Q (p = 0.0004 and p < 0.0001, respectively). GBM tumors have higher yet non-significantly different vsi values than PCNSLs (p = 0.065) and non-significant differences in Q. No statistically significant differences in vsi or Q were present between GBMs and MLCs. GBM tumor volume was positively correlated with vsi (r = 0.502, p = 0.0017) and negatively correlated with Q (r = −0.531, p = 0.0007).

Conclusion

Conventional MRI parameters are helpful in differentiating between PCNSLs, GBMs, and MLCs. Additionally incorporating VSI parameters into the diagnostic protocol could help in further differentiating between PCNSLs and metastases and potentially between PCNSLs and GBMs. Future studies in larger patient cohorts are required to establish diagnostic cut-off values for VSI.
Microsporidian Infection in Mosquitoes (Culicidae) Is Associated with Gut Microbiome Composition and Predicted Gut Microbiome Functional Content
Authors: Trzebny Artur , Slodkowicz-Kowalska Anna , Björkroth Johanna , Dabert Miroslawa
Published: December 2021

The animal gut microbiota consist of many different microorganisms, mainly bacteria, but archaea, fungi, protozoans, and viruses may also be present. This complex and dynamic community of microorganisms may change during parasitic infection. In the present study, we investigated the effect of the presence of microsporidians on the composition of the mosquito gut microbiota and linked some microbiome taxa and functionalities to infections caused by these parasites. We characterised bacterial communities of 188 mosquito females, of which 108 were positive for microsporidian DNA. To assess how bacterial communities change during microsporidian infection, microbiome structures were identified using 16S rRNA microbial profiling. In total, we identified 46 families and four higher taxa, of whichComamonadaceae,Enterobacteriaceae,FlavobacteriaceaeandPseudomonadaceaewere the most abundant mosquito-associated bacterial families. Our data suggest that the mosquito gut microbial composition varies among host species. In addition, we found a correlation between the microbiome composition and the presence of microsporidians. The prediction of metagenome functional content from the 16S rRNA gene sequencing suggests that microsporidian infection is characterised by some bacterial species capable of specific metabolic functions, especially the biosynthesis of ansamycins and vancomycin antibiotics and the pentose phosphate pathway. Moreover, we detected a positive correlation between the presence of microsporidian DNA and bacteria belonging toSpiroplasmataceaeandLeuconostocaceae, each represented by a single species,Spiroplasmasp. PL03 andWeissellacf.viridescens,respectively.Additionally,W.cf.viridescenswas observed only in microsporidian-infected mosquitoes. More extensive research, including intensive and varied host sampling, as well as determination of metabolic activities based on quantitative methods, should be carried out to confirm our results.
Sensor-integrating gears: wear detection by in-situ MEMS acceleration sensors
Authors: Peters Julian , Ott Lorenz , Dörr Matthias , Gwosch Thomas , Matthiesen Sven
Published: December 2021

Gear tooth wear is a common phenomenon leading to malfunctions in machines. To detect wear and faults, gear condition monitoring by vibration is established. The problem is that the measurement data quality for detection of wear by vibration is not good enough with currently established measurement methods, caused by long signal paths of the commonly used housing mounted sensors. In-situ sensors directly at the gear achieve better data quality, but are not yet proved in wear detection. Further it is unknown what analysis methods are suited for in-situ sensor data. Existing gear condition metrics are mainly focused on localized gear tooth faults, and do not estimate wear related values. This contribution aims to improve wear detection by investigating in-situ sensors and advance gear condition metrics. Using a gear test rig to conduct an end of life test, the wear detection ability of an in-situ sensor system and reference sensors on the bearing block are compared through standard gear condition metrics. Furthermore, a machine-learned regression model is developed that maps multiple features related to gear dynamics to the gear mass loss. The standard gear metrics used on the in-situ sensor data are able to detect wear, but not significantly better compared to the other sensors. The regression model is able to estimate the actual wear with a high accuracy. Providing a wear related output improves the wear detection by better interpretability.
Fair allocation of conflicting items
Authors: Hummel Halvard , Hetland Magnus Lie
Published: December 2021

We study fair allocation of indivisible items, where the items are furnished with a set ofconflicts, and agents are not permitted to receive conflicting items. This kind of constraint captures, for example, participating in events that overlap in time, or taking on roles in the presence of conflicting interests. We demonstrate, both theoretically and experimentally, that fairness characterizations such as EF1, MMS and MNW still are applicable and useful under item conflicts. Among other existence, non-existence and computability results, we show that a$$1/\Delta $$1/Δ-approximate MMS allocation fornagents may be found in polynomial time when$$n>\Delta >2$$n>Δ>2, for any conflict graph with maximum degree$$\Delta$$Δ, and that, if$$n > \Delta $$n>Δ, a 1/3-approximate MMS allocation always exists.
Heterogeneity in Family Life Course Patterns and Intra-Cohort Wealth Disparities in Late Working Age
Authors: Kapelle Nicole , Vidal Sergi
Published: December 2021

Considering soaring wealth inequalities in older age, this research addresses the relationship between family life courses and widening wealth differences between individuals as they age. We holistically examine how childbearing and marital histories are associated with personal wealth at ages 50–59 for Western Germans born between 1943 and 1967. We propose that deviations from culturally and institutionally-supported family patterns, or the stratified access to them, associate with differential wealth accumulation over time and can explain wealth inequalities at older ages. Using longitudinal data from the German Socio-Economic Panel Study (SOEP, v34, waves 2002–2017), we first identified typical family trajectory patterns between ages 16 and 50 with multichannel sequence analysis and cluster analysis. We then modelled personal wealth ranks at ages 50–59 as a function of family patterns. Results showed that deviations from the standard family pattern (i.e. stable marriage with, on average, two children) were mostly associated with lower wealth ranks at older age, controlling for childhood characteristics that partly predict selection into family patterns and baseline wealth. We found higher wealth penalties for greater deviation and lower penalties for moderate deviation from the standard family pattern. Addressing entire family trajectories, our research extended and nuanced our knowledge of the role of earlier family behaviour for later economic wellbeing. By using personal-level rather than household-level wealth data, we were able to identify substantial gender differences in the study associations. Our research also recognised the importance of combining marital and childbearing histories to assess wealth inequalities.
Attitude determination for nano-satellites – II. Dead reckoning with a multiplicative extended Kalman filter
Authors: Takátsy János , Bozóki Tamás , Dálya Gergely , Kapás Kornél , Mészáros László , Pál András
Published: December 2021

This paper is the second part of a series of studies discussing a novel attitude determination method for nano-satellites. Our approach is based on the utilization of thermal imaging sensors to determine the direction of the Sun and the nadir with respect to the satellite with sub-degree accuracy. The proposed method is planned to be applied during the Cubesats Applied for MEasuring and LOcalising Transients (CAMELOT) mission aimed at detecting and localizing gamma-ray bursts with an efficiency and accuracy comparable to large gamma-ray space observatories. In our previous work we determined the spherical projection function of the MLX90640 infrasensors planned to be used for this purpose. We showed that with the known projection function the direction of the Sun can be located with an overall accuracy of $$\sim 40^\prime$$

∼

40
′

. In this paper we introduce a simulation model aimed at testing the applicability of our attitude determination approach. Its first part simulates the orbit and rotation of a satellite with arbitrary initial conditions while its second part applies our attitude determination algorithm which is based on a multiplicative extended Kalman filter. The simulated satellite is assumed to be equipped with a GPS system, MEMS gyroscopes and the infrasensors. These instruments provide the required data input for the Kalman filter. We demonstrate the applicability of our attitude determination algorithm by simulating the motion of a nano-satellite on Low Earth Orbit. Our results show that the attitude determination may have a 1$$\sigma$$
σ
error of $$\sim 30'$$

∼

30
′

even with a large gyroscope drift during the orbital periods when the infrasensors provide both the direction of the Sun and the Earth (the nadir). This accuracy is an improvement on the point source detection accuracy of the infrasensors. However, the attitude determination error can get as high as 25$$^{\circ }$$

∘

during periods when the Sun is occulted by the Earth. We show that following an occultation period the attitude information is immediately recovered by the Kalman filter once the Sun is observed again.
Complete chemical and structural characterization of selenium-incorporated hydroxyapatite
Authors: Alkan Baris , Durucan Caner
Published: December 2021

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) has long been used as synthetic bone tissue replacement material. Recent advances in this area have led to development of dual-functional bioceramics exhibiting high biocompability/osteoconductivity together with the therapeutic effect. Selenium, in that respect, is an effective therapeutic agent with promising antioxidant activity and anticancer effects. In this study, selenium-incorporated hydroxyapatite (HAp:Se) particles have been synthesized by modified aqueous precipitation method using calcium (Ca(NO3)2·4H2O) and phosphate ((NH4)2HPO4) salts and sodium selenite (Na2SeO3). The effects of selenium incorporation and post-synthesis calcination treatment (900–1100 °C) on physical, chemical properties and crystal structure of resultant HAp powders have been investigated. Complete chemical identification was performed with spectroscopical analyses including Fourier transform infrared and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to elucidate the mechanism and chemical nature of selenium incorporation in HAp. Meanwhile, detailed x-ray diffraction studies by Rietveld refinement have conducted to explain changes in the HAp crystal structure upon selenium incorporation.
On the Stability and Null-Controllability of an Infinite System of Linear Differential Equations
Authors: Azamov Abdulla , Ibragimov Gafurjan , Mamayusupov Khudoyor , Ruziboev Marks
Published: December 2021

In this work, the null controllability problem for a linear system in ℓ2 is considered, where the matrix of a linear operator describing the system is an infinite matrix with $\lambda \in \mathbb {R}$
λ
∈
ℝ
on the main diagonal and 1s above it. We show that the system is asymptotically stable if and only if λ ≤− 1, which shows the fine difference between the finite and the infinite-dimensional systems. When λ ≤− 1 we also show that the system is null controllable in large. Further we show a dependence of the stability on the norm, i.e. the same system considered $\ell ^{\infty }$

ℓ

∞

is not asymptotically stable if λ = − 1.
Longitudinal Associations between Parental Support and Parental Knowledge on Behavioral and Emotional Problems in Adolescents
Authors: Cutrín Olalla , Maneiro Lorena , Chowdhury Yasmynn , Kulis Stephen S. , Marsiglia Flavio F. , Gómez Fraguela José Antonio
Published: December 2021

When testing longitudinal effects of parenting practices on adolescent adjustment, an integrated consideration of externalizing and internalizing behaviors is a gap in research. This study analyzed how parental support and parental knowledge directly and indirectly influence both antisocial behavior and emotional problems. The sample had 642 adolescents aged 12-15 (mean age = 12.49; 45.4% females) from Spain, who participated in a three-year long study. The results showed longitudinal bidirectional associations between parental support and parental knowledge. Only parental knowledge, however, directly predicted antisocial behavior and emotional problems. Parental support had an indirect effect on outcomes through the mediating effect of parental knowledge. This study has practical implications by indicating that increasing parental knowledge should be the target of educational-prevention programs.
Quantifying and predicting population connectivity of an outbreaking forest insect pest
Authors: Larroque Jeremy , Wittische Julian , James Patrick M. A.
Published: December 2021

Context

Dispersal has a key role in the population dynamics of outbreaking species such as the spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana) as it can synchronize the demography of distant populations and favor the transition from endemic to epidemic states. However, we know very little about how landscape structure influences dispersal in such systems while such knowledge is essential for better forecasting of spatially synchronous population dynamics and to guide management strategies.

Objectives

We aimed to characterize the spatial environmental determinants of spruce budworm dispersal to determine how these features affect outbreak spread in Quebec (Canada). We then apply our findings to predict expected future landscape connectivity and explore its potential consequences on future outbreaks.

Methods

We used a machine-learning landscape genetics approach on 447 larvae covering most of the outbreak area and genotyped at 3562 SNP loci to identify the main variables affecting connectivity.

Results

We found that the connectivity between outbreak populations was driven by the combination of precipitation and host cover. Our forecasting suggests that between the current and next outbreaks, connectivity may increase between Ontario and Quebec, and might decrease in the eastern part, which could have the effect of limiting outbreak spread from Ontario and Quebec to the eastern provinces.

Conclusions

Although we did not identify any discrete barriers, low connectivity areas might constrain dispersal in the current and future outbreaks and should in turn, be intensively monitored. However, continued sampling as the outbreak progresses is needed to confirm the temporal stability of the observed patterns.
Accelerated hyper-versus normofractionated radiochemotherapy with temozolomide in patients with glioblastoma: a multicenter retrospective analysis
Authors: Klement Rainer J. , Popp Ilinca , Kaul David , Ehret Felix , Grosu Anca L. , Polat Bülent , Sweeney Reinhart A. , Lewitzki Victor
Published: December 2021

Background and purpose

The standard treatment of glioblastoma patients consists of surgery followed by normofractionated radiotherapy (NFRT) with concomitant and adjuvant temozolomide chemotherapy. Whether accelerated hyperfractionated radiotherapy (HFRT) yields comparable results to NFRT in combination with temozolomide has only sparsely been investigated. The objective of this study was to compare NFRT with HFRT in a multicenter analysis.

Materials and methods

A total of 484 glioblastoma patients from four centers were retrospectively pooled and analyzed. Three-hundred-ten and 174 patients had been treated with NFRT (30 × 1.8 Gy or 30 × 2 Gy) and HFRT (37 × 1.6 Gy or 30 × 1.8 Gy twice/day), respectively. The primary outcome of interest was overall survival (OS) which was correlated with patient-, tumor- and treatment-related variables via univariable and multivariable Cox frailty models. For multivariable modeling, missing covariates were imputed using multiple imputation by chained equations, and a sensitivity analysis was performed on the complete-cases-only dataset.

Results

After a median follow-up of 15.7 months (range 0.8–88.6 months), median OS was 16.9 months (15.0–18.7 months) in the NFRT group and 14.9 months (13.2–17.3 months) in the HFRT group (p = 0.26). In multivariable frailty regression, better performance status, gross-total versus not gross-total resection, MGMT hypermethylation, IDH mutation, smaller planning target volume and salvage therapy were significantly associated with longer OS (all p < 0.01). Treatment differences (HFRT versus NFRT) had no significant effect on OS in either univariable or multivariable analysis.

Conclusions

Since HFRT with temozolomide was not associated with worse OS, we assume HFRT to be a potential option for patients wishing to shorten their treatment time.
Using the Isalos platform to develop a (Q)SAR model that predicts metal oxide toxicity utilizing facet-based electronic, image analysis-based, and periodic table derived properties as descriptors
Authors: Thwala M. M. , Afantitis A. , Papadiamantis A. G. , Tsoumanis A. , Melagraki G. , Dlamini L. N. , Ouma C. N. M. , Ramasami P. , Harris R. , Puzyn T. , Sanabria N. , Lynch I. , Gulumian M.
Published: December 2021

Engineered nanoparticles (NPs) are being studied for their potential to harm humans and the environment. Biological activity, toxicity, physicochemical properties, fate, and transport of NPs must all be evaluated and/or predicted. In this work, we explored the influence of metal oxide nanoparticle facets on their toxicity towards bronchial epithelial (BEAS-2B), Murine myeloid (RAW 264.7), and E. coli cell lines. To estimate the toxicity of metal oxide nanoparticles grown to a low facet index, a quantitative structure–activity relationship ((Q)SAR) approach was used. The novel model employs theoretical (density functional theory calculations) and experimental studies (transmission electron microscopy images from which several particle descriptors are extracted and toxicity data extracted from the literature) to investigate the properties of faceted metal oxides, which are then utilized to construct a toxicity model. The classification mode of the k-nearest neighbour algorithm (EnaloskNN, Enalos Chem/Nanoinformatics) was used to create the presented model for metal oxide cytotoxicity. Four descriptors were identified as significant: core size, chemical potential, enthalpy of formation, and electronegativity count of metal oxides. The relationship between these descriptors and metal oxide facets is discussed to provide insights into the relative toxicities of the nanoparticle. The model and the underpinning dataset are freely available on the NanoSolveIT project cloud platform and the NanoPharos database, respectively.
Sustainability improvement in complex systems composed of products and services
Authors: Biedermann Anna , López Natalia Muñoz , Sáenz José Luis Santolaya , Martín José Ignacio Valero
Published: December 2021

Purpose

A wide number of research efforts have been carried out over the last decades to assess and improve system sustainability. Different methods and tools are increasingly implemented in product systems; nevertheless its application to services and other systems, in which products and services are combined, is rather limited. In this work, an approach to improve the sustainability of systems composed of products and services (P + S systems) is proposed and implemented in two case studies.

Methods

The sustainability improvement of P + S systems is addressed integrating different methods and approaches. The flows between system approach is used to identify links between all systems involved. The life cycle sustainability assessment (LCSA) method is applied to simultaneously evaluate environmental, economic and social aspects of sustainability with a life cycle perspective. In addition, sustainable design principles are taken into account to propose effective improvement strategies. The systematic development of four phases is required to carry out the integration of these approaches: (i) identification of links between involved systems; (ii) sustainability assessment of the P + S system; (iii) application of sustainability strategies; and (iv) sustainability results comparison.

Results and discussion

Two different P + S systems are analysed. First, sustainability improvements in the service provided by a clothing boutique are proposed, taking into account that the store where the service is developed and the clothes acquired by the service provider are product systems involved in the service operation. Next, the sustainability of an itinerary exhibition is investigated. Products required for the exhibition space layout as well as the service used to transport all materials between different locations are taken into account. In each case, sustainability indicators obtained in both initial and alternative systems are compared, and variations detected due to strategies applied are analysed.

Conclusions

Sustainability of P + S systems is evaluated using a set of quantitative indicators, the relative incidence of each system is determined and more sustainable alternatives are projected. Thus, this research supposes an advance towards the sustainable design of complex systems composed of products and services, since effects due to the interconnection between systems are studied and criteria to carry out sustainability-oriented decision making are provided.
Detecting computer-generated disinformation
Authors: Stiff Harald , Johansson Fredrik
Published: December 2021

Modern neural language models can be used by malicious actors to automatically produce textual content looking as it has been written by genuine human users. Due to progress in the controllability of computer-generated text, there is a risk that state-sponsored actors may start using such methods for conducting large-scale information operations. Various detection algorithms have been suggested in the research literature to identify texts produced by language model-based generators, but these are often mainly evaluated on test data from the same distribution as they have been trained on. We evaluate promising Transformer-based detection algorithms in a large variety of experiments involving both in-distribution and out-of-distribution test data, as well as evaluation on more realistic in-the-wild data. It is shown that the generalizability of the detectors can be questioned, especially when applied to short social media posts. Moreover, the best performing (RoBERTa-based) detector is shown to be non-robust also to basic adversarial attacks, illustrating how easy it is for malicious actors to avoid detection by the current state-of-the-art detection algorithms.
Analysis of the NOx storage behaviour during cold start of modern SCR flow-through substrates and SCR on-filter substrates
Authors: Lukas Deinhofer , Michael Maurer , Gert Barnstedt , Andreas Keber
Published: December 2021

Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems are the state-of-the-art technology to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions (NOx) of modern diesel engines. The system behaviour is well understood in the common temperature working area. However, the system properties below light-off temperature are less well known and offer a wide scope for further investigations. Vehicle measurements show that under specific conditions during cold start, NOx can be partially stored and converted on on-filter and flow-through SCR catalysts. The purpose of this work was in a first step to analyse the main influence parameters on the NOx storage behaviour. Therefore, synthetic gas test bench measurements have been carried out, varying the gas concentrations, temperature, and gas hourly space velocity (GHSV). These investigations showed that the NOx storage effect strongly depends on the NH3 level stored in the catalyst, GHSV, the adsorbed water (H2O) on the catalyst, and the temperature of the catalyst. Further influence parameters such as the gas composition with focus on carbon monoxide (CO), short-chain hydrocarbons and long-chain hydrocarbons have been analysed on a synthetic gas test bench. Depending on operating conditions, a significant amount of NOx can be stored on a dry catalyst during the cold start phase. The water vapor from the combustion condenses on the cold exhaust pipe during the first seconds, or up to a few minutes after a cold start. As the water vapor reaches the surface of the catalyst, it condenses and adsorbs onto it, leading to a sudden temperature rise. This exothermal reaction causes the stored NOx to be desorbed, and furthermore it is partially reduced by the NH3 stored in the catalyst.
The Italian energy transition in a multilevel system: between reinforcing dynamics and institutional constraints
Authors: Di Nucci Maria Rosaria , Prontera Andrea
Published: December 2021

The article analyses drivers as well as coordination mechanisms and instruments for the energy transition in Italy from a multilevel governance perspective. It addresses the structural constraints that influenced the decision-making processes and organisation of the Italian energy sector and the socio-technical challenges opened up by enhancing renewables. The current energy system is making the move from a centralised, path-dependent institutional and organisational structure to a more fragmented and pluralistic one. Renewables and decentralised patterns of production and consumption are key elements of this paradigmatic shift, which is paralleled by a multiplication of decision-making arenas and actors. These actors follow different interests, problem understandings and green growth narratives, increasing the complexity of governing the energy transition. Against this background, community-based renewable energy policy is assuming a very important role and Italy is putting efforts to establish an enabling framework in line with the requirements of the European Union. The goal of this strategy is to foster a positive link between acceptance of the energy transition and decentralised local activities. In the conclusion we address problems and barriers to new modes of governance, and discuss possible approaches to improved cooperation.
Scale effect on territorial disparities of sustainable human development in Morocco: a spatial analysis
Authors: Ibourk Aomar , Raoui Soukaina
Published: December 2021

Concretizing the input of Morocco’s advanced regionalization project, which aims to reduce territorial disparities for sustainable human development, is a cornerstone for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Alongside the implementation of this project, we carried out a multiscale study of the scope of human development disparities in Morocco based on the new engineering of the territorial division across twelve regions, seventy-five provinces, and fifteen hundred communes. The study aimed to test the effect of scale modification to identify spatial concentrations through the communal human development index. The level of human development of a country is assessed through the convergence of its local HDI. We tested the scaling effect in 2004 and 2017 to determine the state of convergence of human development indicators. The spatial autocorrelation results showed that the distribution of capabilities at the communal scale remained concentrated in Morocco. Areas near developed communes follow the same pattern, at the expense of more distant areas. After the spatial configuration of advanced regionalization was undertaken, there was a decrease in regional and provincial disparities. This outcome is less notable at the communal level. Focusing on the microscale consequently becomes a preferable way to reduce inequalities in sustainable human development. Therefore, for the success and effectiveness of the advanced regionalization project in particular and for the achievement of the SDGs in general, spatial equity remains a necessary condition for the convergence of sustainable human development actions at the microscale.
Specific Regulation of m6A by SRSF7 Promotes the Progression of Glioblastoma
Authors: Cun Yixian , An Sanqi , Zheng Haiqing , Lan Jing , Chen Wenfang , Luo Wanjun , Yao Chengguo , Li Xincheng , Huang Xiang , Sun Xiang , Wu Zehong , Hu Yameng , Li Ziwen , Zhang Shuxia , Wu Geyan , Yang Meisongzhu , Tang Miaoling , Yu Ruyuan , Liao Xinyi , Gao Guicheng , Zhao Wei , Wang Jinkai , Li Jun
Published: December 2021

Serine/arginine-rich splicing factor 7 (SRSF7), a known splicing factor, has been revealed to play oncogenic roles in multiple cancers. However, the mechanisms underlying its oncogenic roles have not been well addressed. Here, based on N  6-methyladenosine (m  6  A) co-methylation network analysis across diverse cell lines, we find that the gene expression of SRSF7 is positively correlated with glioblastoma (GBM) cell-specific m6A methylation. We then indicate that SRSF7 is a novel m6A regulator, which specifically facilitates the m6A methylation near its binding sites on the mRNAs involved in cell proliferation and migration, through recruiting the methyltransferase complex. Moreover, SRSF7 promotes the proliferation and migration of GBM cells largely dependent on the presence of the m6A methyltransferase. The two m6A sites on the mRNA for PDZ-binding kinase (PBK) are regulated by SRSF7 and partially mediate the effects of SRSF7 in GBM cells through recognition by insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2). Together, our discovery reveals a novel role of SRSF7 in regulating m6A and validates the presence and functional importance of temporal- and spatial-specific regulation of m6A mediated by RNA-binding proteins (RBPs).
RADIOCARBON IN GLOBAL TROPOSPHERIC CARBON DIOXIDE
Authors: Levin Ingeborg , Hammer Samuel , Kromer Bernd , Preunkert Susanne , Weller Rolf , Worthy Douglas E
Published: December 2021

Since the 1950s, observations of radiocarbon (14C) in tropospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) have been conducted in both hemispheres, documenting the so-called nuclear “bomb spike” and its transfer into the oceans and the terrestrial biosphere, the two compartments permanently exchanging carbon with the atmosphere. Results from the Heidelberg global network of Δ14C-CO2 observations are revisited here with respect to the insights and quantitative constraints they provided on these carbon exchange fluxes. The recent development of global and hemispheric trends of Δ14C-CO2 are further discussed in regard to their suitability to continue providing constraints for 14C-free fossil CO2 emission changes on the global and regional scale.