bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of a defect‐induced orange persistent luminescence phosphor BaZnGeO4:Bi3+
Authors: Sun Wenzhi , Jiao Mengmeng , Fan Liyan , Zhang Ruijuan , Zhang Xinxin , Zhang Hongwu
Published: November 2021

We report a novel bright orange persistent luminescence (PersL) phosphor BaZnGeO4:Bi3+ with broad emission and PersL spectra. Its crystal structure, photoluminescence (PL) spectra, thermoluminescence (TL) spectra and PersL spectra were investigated in detail. The two emission bands at 440 nm and 595 nm originate from Bi3+ ions in normal Ba2+ sites (Bi1) and Ba2+ sites close to vacancy defects (Bi2), respectively. The introduction of and defects improves the emission intensity of Bi2 more than that of Bi1, demonstrating that Bi2 is related to the vacancy defects. The orange emission and PersL properties of BZGO:Bi3+ can be improved when a little and defects are introduced, because the introduction of and defects makes it easier for Bi3+ to enter in Ba2+ sites; and for PersL, and defects can perform as the effective trap centers to capture more charges, which is beneficial for PersL. BZGO:Bi3+ has quite good thermal stability, and the bright orange PersL can be observed by the naked eye for 1 h. Finally, a feasible PersL mechanism of BZGO:Bi3+ was proposed to clarify the PersL‐generation process.
Micro‐/nanostructure evolution of C/SiFeO(N,C) polymer‐derived ceramic papers pyrolyzed in a reactive ammonia atmosphere
Authors: Peter Johannes , Ott Alexander , Riedel Ralf , Ionescu Emanuel , Kleebe Hans‐Joachim
Published: November 2021

SiFeO(N,C)‐based ceramic papers were prepared via a one‐pot synthesis approach by dip‐coating a cellulose‐based paper template with a polymeric perhydropolysilazane precursor modified with iron(III)acetylacetonate. The preceramic composites were subsequently pyrolyzed in ammonia atmosphere at 500, 700, and 1000°C, respectively, and the characteristics of the three resulting ceramic papers were comparatively investigated.

Scanning electron microscopy revealed that in each sample, the morphology of the template is successfully transferred on the ceramic system, with the cellulose‐derived fibers being converted to elemental carbon encased by a SiFeO(N,C) coating. Electron transparent cross‐sectional samples for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were prepared from the ceramic papers, employing a standard ultramicrotomy slice cutting procedure, allowing for a detailed characterization of their in situ generated micro‐/nanostructure as well as occurring crystalline phases.

TEM imaging and diffraction revealed that depending on pyrolysis temperature a different microstructure with a distinct phase assemblage is generated in the polymer‐derived ceramic papers. Crystallization from the polymer precursor starts with the precipitation of wüstite (Fe(1‐x)O) nanoparticles at 700°C inside the ceramic coating and secondaryε‐FexN at the fiber‐coating interface. Upon pyrolysis at 1000°C however, the sample primarily accommodates metallic α‐iron nanocrystals that impart ferromagnetic characteristics to the ceramic paper.

The results show that the template‐assisted polymer‐derived ceramic route is a feasible approach in the production of complex ceramic compounds with fibrous paper‐like morphology. By adjusting the pyrolysis temperature, microstructure and phase composition of the ceramic paper can be conveniently tailored to the needs of its respective application.
Measuring the foveal avascular zone in diabetes: A study using optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Aitchison Ross T , Kennedy Graeme J , Shu Xinhua , Mansfield David C , Kir Rachel , Hui Jasmine , Shahani Uma
Published: November 2021

Aims/Introduction

Diabetes is a global issue that currently affects 425 million people worldwide. One observable microvascular complication of this condition is a change in the foveal avascular zone (FAZ). In this study, we used optical coherence tomography angiography to investigate the effect of diabetes on the FAZ.

Materials and Methods

A total of 11 participants with diabetes and 11 participants without diabetes took part in this study. Participants in both groups were matched for age (P = 0.217) and sex (P = 0.338), and had no history of ocular disease. Macular optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT‐A) scans of participants’ right and left eyes were taken. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and blood glucose levels were also measured. The FAZ area was manually segmented at the levels of the superficial capillary plexus (FAZSCP) and deep capillary plexus (FAZDCP).

Results

There was a strong relationship between the FAZ area of participants’ right and left eyes (P ≤ 0.001) in both diabetes and non‐diabetes groups. In the diabetes group, the FAZSCP (P = 0.047) and FAZDCP (P = 0.011) areas was significantly larger than in the non‐diabetes group. Moreover, multiple linear regression analysis predicted a 0.07‐mm2 increase in the FAZSCP and FAZDCP areas of individuals with diabetes for every 1% increase in their HbA1c level.

Conclusions

Our findings show that there is enlargement of the FAZ in individuals with diabetes compared with individuals without diabetes. In the diabetes group, this enlargement appears to be correlated with HbA1c level. OCT‐A imaging could, therefore, be a useful tool to monitor the FAZ and identify potential early microvasculopathy in diabetes.
Transcranial Doppler findings in reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome
Authors: Hathidara Mausaminben , Patel Nidhi H. , Flores Alan , Cabrera Yosdely , Cabrera Frank , Koch Sebastian
Published: November 2021

Background and Purpose

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a syndrome characterized by reversible segmental vasoconstriction of cerebral arteries. Digital subtraction and noninvasive angiograms are typically used to detect vasospasm; however, due to the dynamic nature of RCVS these tests are often negative initially and may need to be repeated multiple times. Transcranial Doppler (TCD) offers many advantages as it is a noninvasive and nonradiating modality. Studies investigating its diagnostic utility for capturing vasospasm and studying temporal evolution of RCVS are limited.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis on all patients admitted with suspected RCVS from 2009 to 2014 to a single center at Jackson Memorial Hospital.

Results

We identified 9 patients (88.9% women, age 46.6 ± 13.5 years) who met diagnostic criteria for RCVS. All patients presented with headache, 5 developed nonaneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, 5 developed ischemic stroke, and 1 developed posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. At initial TCD, 8 patients had increased flow velocities in at least one large intracranial artery and ultimately all patients had abnormal middle cerebral artery flow velocity over the course of RCVS. We found that the number of vessels with abnormal velocities increases gradually and peaks between 13 and 14 days after first symptom onset. Finally, mean flow velocity of affected vessels also increases around the same time frame and normalizes at 60 days.

Conclusions

In this case series, we found TCD to be useful in detecting vasospasm and monitoring the temporal evolution of RCVS. TCD could be a helpful clinical tool to diagnose and monitor RCVS.
Regional and sectorial impacts of the Covid‐19 crisis: Evidence from electronic payments
Authors: Carvalho Bruno P. , Peralta Susana , Pereira dos Santos João
Published: November 2021

We use novel and comprehensive monthly data on electronic payments, by municipality and sector, together with cash withdrawals, to study the impact of Covid‐19 in Portugal. Our difference‐in‐differences event study identifies a causal decrease of 17 and 40 percentage points on the year‐on‐year growth rate of overall purchases in March and April 2020. We document a stronger impact of the crisis in more central and more urban municipalities, due to a combination of the sectorial composition effect of the local economy and the sharper confinement behavioral effect in these locations. We discuss the importance of tourism for the results.
Altered human alveolar bone gene expression in type 2 diabetes—A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ayilavarapu Srinivas , Doctor Abbas , Lee Chun‐Teh , Tribble Gena D. , Chiu Yulun , Weltman Robin L. , Angelov Nikola
Published: November 2021

Objective

The objective of this cross‐sectional study is to investigate alveolar bone gene expression in health and diabetes through ribonucleic acid (RNA) sequencing and bioinformatics analysis.

Background

It is relatively unknown how type 2 diabetes modulates gene expression in alveolar bone in humans. Clinical concern regarding increased implant failure rate in patients with diabetes has been discussed in the literature. Previous studies in animal models and humans have suggested an imbalance between the genes regulating bone formation with data suggesting bone resorption in diabetes. However, there is lack of data regarding a comprehensive gene expression from human alveolar bone in diabetes.

Methods

Alveolar bone was collected from healthy and type 2 diabetic subjects undergoing periodontal and implant surgeries. The homogenized RNA sample was then extracted and analyzed for quantity and quality. RNA samples were further purified using ribosomal RNA depletion technique and processed for RNA sequencing and analysis. Expression levels for mRNAs were performed by calculating FPKM ([total_exon_fragments/mapped reads (millions) × exon length (kB)]), and differentially expressed mRNAs were selected with log2 (fold change) >1 or log2 (fold change) ≤1 and with a parametric F test comparing nested linear models.

Results

Eighteen bone samples (10 healthy, 8 patients with diabetes) were analyzed for gene expression. The mean age and HbA1c% of healthy versus diabetic subjects were as follows: age (55.3 ± 17.5 vs 63.9 ± 8.7 years) and HbA1c% (5.6 ± 0.29 vs 7.3 ± 2.4), respectively. Sequencing analysis showed that expression of genes that regulate bone turnover like TGFB1, LTBP4, IGF1, BMP2, BMP4, BMP6, SMAD1, RUNX2, MCSF, and THRA was significantly downregulated in diabetes samples compared with healthy controls with overall reduced expression of genes in the bone regulation pathway in patients with diabetes. Bioinformatics analysis for the altered genes highlighted several pathways related to bone homeostasis and inflammation in diabetes. Periodontitis did not affect the gene expression pattern based on diabetes status.

Conclusions

Altered expression of genes due to downregulation of certain pathways that are involved in bone turnover and inflammation suggests that overall wound healing and bone homeostasis may be compromised in type 2 diabetes.
Cross‐sectional survey study of primary care clinics on evidence‐based colorectal cancer screening intervention use
Authors: Watanabe‐Galloway Shinobu , Kim Jungyoon , LaCrete Frantzlee , Samson Kaeli , Foster Jason , Farazi Paraskevi A. , LeVan Tricia , Napit Krishtee
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine differences between urban and rural primary care clinics in the use of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening methods and evidence‐based interventions to promote CRC screening.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional survey of primary care clinics in Nebraska. Surveys in paper form were sent out and followed up with telephone interviews to nonrespondents. Of the 375 facilities, 263 (70.1%) responded to the survey.

Findings

Over 30% of urban clinics indicated that 80% or more of their patients were meeting the CRC guidelines compared to 18.3% of rural clinics (P = .03). Rural clinics were more likely than urban clinics to prefer the use of colonoscopy alone or in combination with stool tests (P = .02). The most common interventions for CRC screening included one‐on‐one patient education and use of computer‐based pop‐ups to remind providers.

Conclusions

In conclusion, we found some important differences between rural and urban primary care clinics in the implementation of CRC screening. Given that there is evidence for differences in preference for CRC screening methods (colonoscopy vs stool‐based tests) between rural and urban community members, it is important to assess the effectiveness of different types of CRC screening interventions by comparing rural and urban primary care clinic patient populations.
Nasopharyngeal bacterial and fungal microbiota in normal horses and horses with nasopharyngeal cicatrix syndrome
Authors: Rodríguez Natalia , Whitfield‐Cargile Canaan M. , Chamoun‐Emanuelli Ana M. , Hildreth Elizabeth , Jordan Will , Coleman Michelle C.
Published: November 2021

Background

The nasopharyngeal bacterial and fungal microbiota of normal horses and those with nasopharyngeal cicatrix syndrome (NCS) are unknown.

Hypotheses/Objectives

To describe the microbiota from nasopharyngeal washes of healthy horses and of horses acutely affected with NCS.

Animals

Twenty‐six horses acutely affected with NCS horses and 14 unaffected horses.

Methods

Prospective, observational cohort study. Horses were recruited by investigators through personal communications in central Texas. Bacterial (16s RNA) and fungal (internal transcribed spacer) microbiota from nasopharyngeal washes were evaluated. Polymerase chain reaction for detection of Pythium insidiosum was performed.

Results

Results indicated that 6 fungal genera (Alternaria, Bipolaris, Microascus, Spegazzinia, Paraconiothyrium, Claviceps) and 1 bacterial genera (Staphylococcus) were significantly different between affected and unaffected horses. The fungal genus Bipolaris had increased abundance in NCS affected horses and on NCS affected farms. Pythium insidiosum was absent in the nasopharyngeal wash of all horses, irrespective of health status.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Significant differences were identified in the fungal microbiota in horses affected with NCS and farms affected with NCS compared to those unaffected. Therefore, Bipolaris warrants further investigation.
Poisson regression for linguists: A tutorial introduction to modelling count data with brms
Authors: Winter Bodo , Bürkner Paul‐Christian
Published: November 2021

Count data is prevalent in many different areas of linguistics, such as when counting words, syntactic constructions, discourse particles, case markers, or speech errors. The Poisson distribution is the canonical distribution for characterising count data with no or unknown upper bound. Given the prevalence of count data in linguistics, Poisson regression has wide utility no matter what subfield of linguistics is considered. However, in contrast to logistic regression, Poisson regression is surprisingly little known. Here, we make a case for why linguists need to consider Poisson regression, and give recommendations for when Poisson regression is more appropriate compared to logistic regression. This tutorial introduces readers to foundational concepts needed to understand the basics of Poisson regression, followed by a hands‐on tutorial using the R packagebrms. We discuss a dataset where Catalan and Korean speakers change the frequency of their co‐speech gestures as a function of politeness contexts. This dataset also involves exposure variables (the incorporation of time to deal with unequal intervals) and overdispersion (excess variance). Altogether, we hope that more linguists will consider Poisson regression for the analysis of count data.
Phylogenomics, introgression, and demographic history of South American true toads (Rhinella)
Authors: Rivera Danielle , Prates Ivan , Firneno Thomas J. , Trefaut Rodrigues Miguel , Caldwell Janalee P. , Fujita Matthew K.
Published: November 2021

The effects of genetic introgression on species boundaries and how they affect species’ integrity and persistence over evolutionary time have received increased attention. The increasing availability of genomic data has revealed contrasting patterns of gene flow across genomic regions, which impose challenges to inferences of evolutionary relationships and of patterns of genetic admixture across lineages. By characterizing patterns of variation across thousands of genomic loci in a widespread complex of true toads (Rhinella), we assess the true extent of genetic introgression across species thought to hybridize to extreme degrees based on natural history observations and multilocus analyses. Comprehensive geographic sampling of five large‐ranged Neotropical taxa revealed multiple distinct evolutionary lineages that span large geographic areas and, at times, distinct biomes. The inferred major clades and genetic clusters largely correspond to currently recognized taxa; however, we also found evidence of cryptic diversity within taxa. While previous phylogenetic studies revealed extensive mitonuclear discordance, our genetic clustering analyses uncovered several admixed individuals within major genetic groups. Accordingly, historical demographic analyses supported that the evolutionary history of these toads involved cross‐taxon gene flow both at ancient and recent times. Lastly, ABBA‐BABA tests revealed widespread allele sharing across species boundaries, a pattern that can be confidently attributed to genetic introgression as opposed to incomplete lineage sorting. These results confirm previous assertions that the evolutionary history of Rhinella was characterized by various levels of hybridization even across environmentally heterogeneous regions, posing exciting questions about what factors prevent complete fusion of diverging yet highly interdependent evolutionary lineages.
Salmonella Genomic Island 1 requires a self‐encoded small RNA for mobilization
Authors: Nagy István , Szabó Mónika , Hegyi Anna , Kiss János
Published: November 2021

The SGI1‐family elements that are specifically mobilized by the IncA‐ and IncC‐family plasmids are important vehicles of antibiotic resistance among enteric bacteria. Although SGI1 exploits many plasmid‐derived conjugation and regulatory functions, the basic mobilization module of the island is unrelated to that of IncC plasmids. This module contains the oriT and encodes the mobilization proteins MpsA and MpsB, which belong to the tyrosine recombinases and not to relaxases. Here we report an additional, essential transfer factor of SGI1. This is a small RNA deriving from the 3′‐end of a primary RNA that can also serve as mRNA of ORF S022. The functional domain of this sRNA named sgm‐sRNA is encoded between the mpsA gene and the oriT of SGI1. Terminator‐like sequence near the promoter of the primary transcript possibly has a regulatory function in controlling the amount of full‐length primary RNA, which is converted to the active sgm‐sRNA through consecutive maturation steps influenced by the 5′‐end of the primary RNA. The mobilization module of SGI1 seems unique due to its atypical relaxase and the newly identified sgm‐sRNA, which is required for the horizontal transfer of the island but appears to act differently from classical regulatory sRNAs.
A Sagittal Patellar Angle Linear Equation Reflecting Patellofemoral Kinematics: Evaluation of Patellar Height at any Degree of Knee Flexion Angle
Authors: Cui Lu‐kuan , Kang Kai , Zheng Xiao‐zuo , Jiang Shi‐gang , Huang Wen‐tao , Gao Shi‐jun
Published: November 2021

Objective

To confirm whether a novel sagittal patellar angle linear equation used for evaluating patellar height by calculating expected sagittal patellar angle (SPA) at any degree of knee flexion angle is suitable for patients older than 17 years and its reliability compared with other commonly used methods.

Methods

From September 2016 to September 2019, a total number of 202 consecutive outpatients' knee lateral X‐ray radiographs were retrospectively measured and evaluated using a recently proposed linear equation Y = 1.94 + 0.74 × knee flexion(KF) angle. Patients were divided by ages into ayounger group, whose ages were between 17–49 years, and an older group, whose ages were older than 49 years, which has not been validated in the original study. Parameters such as KF, SPA, patella and patella tendon length and so on were measured on computer with picture archiving and communication system by two independent observers at an interval of 1 month. Insall‐Salvati (IS) index, Caton‐Deschamps (CD) index and Y value, correlation coefficients were calculated and compared using SPSS 22.0 software.

Results

In the younger group, 143 patients (165 knees) were included, ages were 17–49 (31.62 ± 11.38) years, males/females were 70 (48.95%)/73 (51.05%), left knees/right knees were 83 (50.30%)/82 (49.70%), mean value of Y was 31.50° ± 10.07°, and SPA was 34.38° ± 12.38°, mean value of IS was 1.06 ± 0.17, mean value of CD was 1.04 ± 0.18. While in older group, 59 patients (78 knees) were included, ages were 50–60 (mean 54.61 ± 2.99) years, there were 32 males (54.24%) and 27 females (45.76%), 42 knees were left (53.85%) and 36 knees were right (46.15%), mean values of Y and SPA were 25.90° ± 11.55° and 29.36° ± 14.22°, mean IS index in older group was 1.06 ± 0.18, mean CD index was 1.00 ± 0.16. Intra‐ and inter‐observer reliabilities of Y in younger and older groups were 0.999, 0.999, 1.000 and 0.999, meaning high reliability and reproducibility, but low Pearson's correlation coefficients with IS and CD index were showed as −0.213 and − 0.216 in younger group and − 0.113 and − 0.316 in older group.

Conclusions

In patients older than 17 years, the linear equation Y = 1.94 + 0.74 × KF is a reliable and practical method to evaluate SPA regardless of age and knee flexion angle, but has weak correlation coefficients with the IS and CD index.
Hydrogen sulphide and nitric oxide mitigate the negative impacts of waterlogging stress on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Mfarrej M. F. B. , Wang X. , Hamzah Saleem M. , Hussain I. , Rasheed R. , Arslan Ashraf M. , Iqbal M. , Sohaib Chattha M. , Nasser Alyemeni M.
Published: November 2021

Nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulphide (H2S) are important gaseous signalling molecules that regulate key physiochemical mechanisms of plants under environmental stresses. A number of attempts have been made to improve waterlogging tolerance in plants, but with limited success. Having said that, NO and H2S are vital signalling molecules, but their role in mitigating waterlogging effects on crop plants is not well established.

We investigated the efficacy of exogenous NO and H2S to alleviate waterlogging effects in two wheat cultivars (Galaxy‐2013 and FSD‐2008).

Waterlogging produced a noticeable reduction in plant growth, yield, chlorophyll, soluble sugars and free amino acids. Besides, waterlogging induced severe oxidative damage seen as higher cellular TBARS and H2O2 content. Antioxidant enzyme activity increased together with a notable rise in Fe2+ and Mn2+ content. Proline content was higher in waterlogged plants compared with non‐waterlogged plants. In contrast, waterlogging caused a substantial decline in endogenous levels of essential nutrients (K+, Ca2+ and Mg2+). Waterlogged conditions led to Fe2+ and Mn2+ toxicity due to rapid reduction of Fe3+ and Mn3+ in the soil.

Exogenous NO and H2S significantly protected plants from waterlogging effects by enhancing the oxidative defence and regulating nutritional status. Besides, the protective effects of exogenous NO were more prominent as compared with effects of H2S. Further, we did not study the effect of H2S and NO on photosynthetic attributes and expression of stress‐related genes. Therefore, future studies should examine the effects of H2S and NO on wheat physiology and gene expression under waterlogging.
Cognitive and quantitative approaches to Islamic studies: Integrating psychological, socioeconomic, and digital‐cultural statistics
Authors: Nakissa Aria
Published: November 2021

The past 3 decades have witnessed growing efforts to rethink areas of inquiry traditionally dominated by the humanities. One such area is religion, and, by extension, “Islamic studies” (i.e., the study of Islam and Muslim societies). Recent efforts to rethink religion and Islamic studies draw insights from cognitive science, and also frequently employ quantitative approaches. Such approaches make use of psychological statistics, socioeconomic statistics, and statistical data extracted from massive collections of digitized cultural artifacts (e.g., texts, photos, sound recordings). These types of statistical data make it possible to quantitively describe long‐term global psychological, socioeconomic, and cultural trends; explain how these trends relate to one another; and explain how these trends relate to Muslim societies. This article introduces the emerging lines of research mentioned above. Furthermore, it suggests that these lines of research open the way for a new more ambitious and more interdisciplinary Islamic studies – one which builds on valuable forms of humanities expertise while integrating the best insights from non‐humanities fields.
Barriers and facilitators to best care for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in Australia
Authors: Tikellis Gabriella , Corte Tamera J. , Teoh Alan K.Y. , Glaspole Ian N. , Macansh Sacha , Holland Anne E.
Published: November 2021

Background and objective

In Australia, little is known about delivery of care for people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). This study examined the organization of IPF care across Australia, how it aligns with guidance for best practice, and identified barriers and facilitators to best care.

Methods

Data on the organization of IPF care in Australia were collected from public hospitals using a study‐specific questionnaire between February and July 2020. Semi‐structured telephone interviews were conducted with respiratory physicians from around Australia between April and December 2020. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis was undertaken.

Results

Almost all hospitals (n = 38, 97%) held multidisciplinary meetings (MDMs) for diagnosing IPF, with 90% of multidisciplinary teams including expert respiratory physicians and radiologists; however, rheumatologists, interstitial lung disease nurses and a histopathologist were often not available. More than 90% of institutions had access to oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation and advanced care planning, but access to psychological support and clinical trials was limited (53% and 58%, respectively). Fifteen respiratory physicians (27% regional) were interviewed. Approaches to diagnosis, treatment and access to referral services were generally consistent with best practice guidance; however, regional respondents reported barriers related to inadequate staffing, lack of a nurse coordinator, inadequate access to clinical trials and funding models. Telehealth technologies were perceived as facilitators to best care.

Conclusion

Clinical management of IPF in Australia generally aligns with best practice guidance, but there may be some inequity of access to specialist services, particularly in regional areas, that should be addressed to ensure optimal care for all.
A Connectionist Model for Dynamic Economic Risk Analysis of Hydrocarbons Production Systems
Authors: Mamudu Abbas , Khan Faisal , Zendehboudi Sohrab , Adedigba Sunday
Published: November 2021

This study presents a connectionist model for dynamic economic risk evaluation of reservoir production systems. The proposed dynamic economic risk modeling strategy combines evidence‐based outcomes from a Bayesian network (BN) model with the dynamic risks‐based results produced from an adaptive loss function model for reservoir production losses/dynamic economic risks assessments. The methodology employs a multilayer‐perceptron (MLP) model, a loss function model; it integrates an early warning index system (EWIS) of oilfield block with a BN model for process modeling. The model evaluates the evidence‐based economic consequences of the production losses and analyzes the statistical disparities of production predictions using an EWIS‐assisted BN model and the loss function model at the same time. The proposed methodology introduces an innovative approach that effectively minimizes the potential for dynamic economic risks. The model predicts real‐time daily production/dynamic economic losses. The connectionist model yields an encouraging overall predictive performance with average errors of 1.954% and 1.957% for the two case studies: cases 1 and 2, respectively. The model can determine transitional/threshold production values for adequate reservoir management toward minimal losses. The results show minimum average daily dynamic economic losses of $267,463 and $146,770 for cases 1 and 2, respectively. It is a multipurpose tool that can be recommended for the field operators in petroleum reservoir production management related decision making.
On the Interplay of Regional Mobility, Social Connectedness and The Spread of COVID-19 in Germany
Authors: Fritz Cornelius , Kauermann Göran
Published: November 2021

Since the primary mode of respiratory virus transmission is person-to-person interaction, we are required to reconsider physical interaction patterns to mitigate the number of people infected with COVID-19. While research has shown that non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPI) had an evident impact on national mobility patterns, we investigate the relative regional mobility behaviour to assess the effect of human movement on the spread of COVID-19. In particular, we explore the impact of human mobility and social connectivity derived from Facebook activities on the weekly rate of new infections in Germany between 3 March and 22 June 2020. Our results confirm that reduced social activity lowers the infection rate, accounting for regional and temporal patterns. The extent of social distancing, quantified by the percentage of people staying put within a federal administrative district, has an overall negative effect on the incidence of infections. Additionally, our results show spatial infection patterns based on geographical as well as social distances.
Surfing, masculinity and resistance at Cloud 9: Filipino men who surf negotiating tourism spaces and social hierarchies on Siargao Island, Philippines
Authors: Hansen Karen A.
Published: November 2021

This paper explores the interplay between global surfing masculinities, the colonial/feminising touristic order and local cultural norms in the Philippines through an analysis of surfing masculinities and the Visayan hierarchical ordering principal sipog (supog/ulaw), or shyness/modesty/shame/embarrassment. The touristic order constructs tropical tourism destinations as effeminate, a process which marginalises, excludes or emasculates local men. However, through adherence to the masculine modes of modern surf culture, Filipino surfers on Siargao Island find a viable pathway through which to assert dominance and resist and reject the touristic order. Yet, while local men who surf on Siargao Island assert dominance and control in surfing spaces, outside these spaces their subjectivities are complicated by overarching social and class hierarchies, global inequalities and local cultural norms (sipog). In tourist spaces, their behaviours tend more towards shyness, modesty and deference.
Removing the major allergen Bra j I from brown mustard (Brassica juncea) by CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Assou Juvenal , Zhang Dingbo , Roth Kristian D. R. , Steinke Stephan , Hust Michael , Reinard Thomas , Winkelmann Traud , Boch Jens
Published: November 2021

Food allergies are a major health issue worldwide. Modern breeding techniques such as genome editing via CRISPR/Cas9 have the potential to mitigate this by targeting allergens in plants. This study addressed the major allergen Bra j I, a seed storage protein of the 2S albumin class, in the allotetraploid brown mustard (Brassica juncea). Cotyledon explants of an Indian gene bank accession (CR2664) and the German variety Terratop were transformed using Agrobacterium tumefaciens harboring binary vectors with multiple single guide RNAs to induce either large deletions or frameshift mutations in both Bra j I homoeologs. A total of 49 T0 lines were obtained with up to 3.8% transformation efficiency. Four lines had large deletions of 566 up to 790 bp in the Bra j IB allele. Among 18 Terratop T0 lines, nine carried indels in the targeted regions. From 16 analyzed CR2664 T0 lines, 14 held indels and three had all four Bra j I alleles mutated. The majority of the CRISPR/Cas9‐induced mutations were heritable to T1 progenies. In some edited lines, seed formation and viability were reduced and seeds showed a precocious development of the embryo leading to a rupture of the testa already in the siliques. Immunoblotting using newly developed Bra j I‐specific antibodies revealed the amount of Bra j I protein to be reduced or absent in seed extracts of selected lines. Removing an allergenic determinant from mustard is an important first step towards the development of safer food crops.
Prolonged storage of purified granulocyte concentrates: Introduction of a new purification method
Authors: Klinkmann Gerd , Doss Fanny , Goudeva Lilia , Doss Sandra , Blasczyk Rainer , Milej Magdalena , Koch Stephanie , Mitzner Steffen , Altrichter Jens
Published: November 2021

Background

Use of donor granulocyte concentrate (GC) has been limited due to its short storage time of 6–24 h, which is partially due to residual red blood cells (RBCs) and platelets and the resulting lactate production leading to an acidotic milieu. To increase this storage time, we developed a closed system procedure compatible with standard blood bank technologies to remove RBC and platelets and to enrich the GC.

Methods

Standard GCs (sGCs) were sedimented, washed twice with 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl), and resuspended in blood group‐identical fresh frozen plasma. The resulting purified GCs (pGCs) were then stored in platelet bags at a cell concentration of about 5 × 107 ± 1.8 × 107 leukocytes/ml without agitation at room temperature for up to 72 h. Cell count and viability, pH, blood gases, phagocytosis, and oxidative burst were monitored daily.

Results

A significant reduction in RBC (98%) through sedimentation, and platelets (96%) by washing, purified the white blood cell (WBC) population and enriched the granulocytes to 96% of the WBC in the pGC. After 72 h of storage, over 90% of the initial WBC count of pGC remained, was viable (≥97%), and the granulocytes exhibited a high phagocytosis and oxidative burst functionality, comparable to sGC after 24 h.

Conclusion

Purification extends the maximum storage period of GC from 24 to 72 h and may therefore improve the availability of GC and its clinical use.
Phase‐ and state‐dependent modulation of breathing pattern by preBötzinger complex somatostatin expressing neurons
Authors: de Sousa Abreu Raquel P. , Bondarenko Evgeny , Feldman Jack L.
Published: November 2021

As neuronal subtypes are increasingly categorized, delineating their functional role is paramount. The preBötzinger complex (preBötC) subpopulation expressing the neuropeptide somatostatin (SST) is classified as mostly excitatory, inspiratory‐modulated and not rhythmogenic. We further characterized their phenotypic identity: 87% were glutamatergic and the balance were glycinergic and/or GABAergic. We then used optogenetics to investigate their modulatory role in both anaesthetized and freely moving mice. In anaesthetized mice, short photostimulation (100 ms) of preBötC SST+ neurons modulated breathing‐related variables in a combinatory phase‐ and state‐dependent manner; changes in inspiratory duration, inspiratory peak amplitude (Amp), and phase were different at higher (≥2.5 Hz) vs. lower (<2.5 Hz) breathing frequency (f). Moreover, we observed a biphasic effect of photostimulation during expiration that is probabilistic, that is photostimulation given at the same phase in consecutive cycles can evoke opposite responses (lengthening vs. shortening of the phase). These unexpected probabilistic state‐ and phase‐dependent responses to photostimulation exposed properties of the preBötC that were not predicted and cannot be readily accounted for in current models of preBötC pattern generation. In freely moving mice, prolonged photostimulation decreased f in normoxia, hypoxia or hypercapnia, and increased Amp and produced a phase advance, which was similar to the results in anaesthetized mice when f ≥ 2.5 Hz. We conclude that preBötC SST+ neurons are a key mediator of the extraordinary and essential lability of breathing pattern.

Key points

PreBötzinger complex (preBötC) SST+ neurons, which modulate respiratory pattern but are not rhythmogenic, were transfected with channelrhodopsin to investigate phase‐ and state‐dependent modulation of breathing pattern in anaesthetized and freely behaving mice in normoxia, hypoxia and hypercapnia.

In anaesthetized mice, photostimulation during inspiration increased inspiratory duration and amplitude regardless of baseline f, yet the effects were more robust at higher f.

In anaesthetized mice with low f (<2.5 Hz), photostimulation during expiration evoked either phase advance or phase delay, whereas in anaesthetized mice with high f (≥2.5 Hz) and in freely behaving mice in normoxia, hypoxia or hypercapnia, photostimulation always evoked phase advance.

Phase‐ and state‐dependency is a function of overall breathing network excitability.

The f‐dependent probabilistic modulation of breathing pattern by preBötC SST+ neurons was unexpected, requiring reconsideration of current models of preBötC function, which neither predict nor can readily account for such responses.
High‐definition transcranial direct current stimulation modulates performance and alpha/beta parieto‐frontal connectivity serving fluid intelligence
Authors: Arif Yasra , Spooner Rachel K. , Heinrichs‐Graham Elizabeth , Wilson Tony W.
Published: November 2021

Fluid intelligence (Gƒ) includes logical reasoning abilities and is an essential component of normative cognition. Despite the broad consensus that parieto‐prefrontal connectivity is critical for Gƒ (e.g. the parieto‐frontal integration theory of intelligence, P‐FIT), the dynamics of such functional connectivity during logical reasoning remains poorly understood. Further, given the known importance of these brain regions for Gƒ, numerous studies have targeted one or both of these areas with non‐invasive stimulation with the goal of improving Gƒ, but to date there remains little consensus on the overall stimulation‐related effects. To examine this, we applied high‐definition direct current anodal stimulation to the left and right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) of 24 healthy adults for 20 min in three separate sessions (sham, left, and right active). Following stimulation, participants completed a logical reasoning task during magnetoencephalography (MEG). Significant neural responses at the sensor‐level were imaged using a beamformer, and peak task‐induced activity was subjected to dynamic functional connectivity analyses to evaluate the impact of distinct stimulation montages on network activity. We found that participants responded faster following right DLPFC stimulationvs. sham. Moreover, our neural findings followed a similar trajectory of effects such that left parieto‐frontal connectivity decreased following right and left DLPFC stimulation compared to sham, with connectivity following right stimulation being significantly correlated with the faster reaction times. Importantly, our findings are consistent with P‐FIT, as well as theneural efficiency hypothesis(NEH) of intelligence. In sum, this study provides evidence for beneficial effects of right DLPFC stimulation on logical reasoning.

Key points

Logical reasoning is an indispensable component of fluid intelligence and involves multispectral oscillatory activity in parietal and frontal regions.

Parieto‐frontal integration is well characterized in logical reasoning; however, its direct neural quantification and neuromodulation by brain stimulation remain poorly understood.

High‐definition transcranial direct current stimulation of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) had modulatory effects on task performance and neural interactions serving logical reasoning, with right stimulation showing beneficial effects.

Right DLPFC stimulation led to a decrease in the response time (i.e. better task performance) and left parieto‐frontal connectivity with a marginal positive association between behavioural and neural metrics.

Other modes of targeted stimulation of DLPFC (e.g. frequency‐specific) can be employed in future studies.
α2δ‐2 is required for depolarization‐induced suppression of excitation in Purkinje cells
Authors: Beeson Kathleen A. , Westbrook Gary L. , Schnell Eric
Published: November 2021

α2δ proteins (CACNA2D1–4) are required for normal neurological function and contribute to membrane trafficking of voltage‐gated calcium channels, through which calcium entry initiates numerous physiological processes. However, it remains unclear how α2δ proteins influence calcium‐mediated signalling to control neuronal output. Using whole‐cell recordings of mouse Purkinje cells, we show that α2δ‐2 is required for functional coupling of postsynaptic voltage‐dependent calcium entry with calcium‐dependent effector mechanisms controlling two different outputs, depolarization‐induced suppression of excitation and spike afterhyperpolarization. Our findings indicate an important role for α2δ‐2 proteins in regulating functional postsynaptic calcium channel coupling in neurons, providing new context for understanding the effects of α2δ mutations on neuronal circuit function and presenting additional potential avenues to manipulate α2δ‐mediated signalling for therapeutic gain.

Key points

Calcium influx, via voltage‐dependent calcium channels, drives numerous neuronal signalling processes with precision achieved in part by tight coupling between calcium entry and calcium‐dependent effectors.

α2δ proteins are important for neurological function and contribute to calcium channel membrane trafficking, although how α2δ proteins influence postsynaptic calcium‐dependent signalling is largely unexplored.

Here it is shown that loss of α2δ‐2 proteins disrupts functional calcium coupling to two different postsynaptic calcium‐dependent signals in mouse Purkinje cell neurons, retrograde endocannabinoid signalling and the action potential afterhyperpolarization.

The findings provide new insights into the control of calcium coupling as well as new roles for α2δ‐2 proteins in neurons.
Spectral Reflectance in the Spatial-temporal Dynamic of Turbidity, Itaipu Reservoir, Brazil
Authors: Facco Douglas Stefanello , Guasselli Laurindo Antonio , Ruiz Luis Fernando Chimelo , Simioni João Paulo Delapasse , Dick Daiane Gerhardt
Published: November 2021

Water quality and the useful life of reservoirs and dams are influenced by the entry of suspended solids, in addition to reducing theirtransparency and storage capacity. It is primary to monitor and analyses its space-time dynamics. Thus, the objective of this work isto characterize the dynamics of the Itaipu Reservoir waters from turbidity, rainfall and spectral reflectance data. To characterize thedynamics, the reservoir was divided into 18 aquatic compartments between upstream and downstream, using precipitation data fromthe TRMM sensor and Landsat 8 images in different precipitation situations. NDWI, MNDWI and NDTI water spectral indexes werecalculated from Landsat 8 images. The results showed high correlation between the NDTI index and the turbidity (R² = 0.91). Then theNDTI images were reclassified into low, medium and high turbidity. A strong correlation between turbidity and 4 Band correspondingto the spectral range of red (R² = 0.94) was also obtained. The precipitation has a determinant influence, being the Paraná River, in theperiods of greater precipitation, the main agent in sediment transport. The space-time dynamics showed that the lateral compartmentsof the reservoir have less influence on sediment transport. In this sense, our analysis brought new elements to understand the turbidityvariation in these Itaipu Reservoir compartments, as well as the spectral reflectance dynamics in the space-time characterization relatedto turbidity.
Optimization of Machining Parameters for Product Quality and Productivity in Turning Process of Aluminum
Authors: Abolghasem Sepideh , Mancilla-Cubides Nicolás
Published: November 2021

Modern production process is accompanied with new challenges in reducing the environmental impacts related to machining processes. The turning process is a manufacturing process widely used with numerous applications for creating engineering components. Accordingly, many studies have been conducted in order to optimize the machining parameters and facilitate the decision-making process. This work aims to optimize the quality of the machined products (surface finish) and the productivity rate of the turning manufacturing process. To do so, we use Aluminum as the material test to perform the turning process with cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and nose radius of the cutting tool as our design factors. Product quality is quantified using surface roughness (R_a) and the productivity rate based on material removal rate (MRR). We develop a predictive and optimization model by coupling Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) multi-function optimization technique, as an alternative to predict the model response (R_a) first and then search for the optimal value of turning parameters to minimize the surface roughness (R_a) and maximize the material removal rate (MRR). The results obtained by the proposed models indicate good match between the predicted and experimental values proving that the proposed ANN model is capable to predict the surface roughness accurately. The optimization model PSO has provided a Pareto Front for the optimal solution determining the best machining parameters for minimum R_a and maximum MRR. The results from this study offer application in the real industry where the selection of optimal machining parameters helps to manage two conflicting objectives, which eventually facilitate the decision-making process of machined products.
Comparison of Video-Identified Head Contacts and Sensor-Recorded Events in High School Soccer
Authors: Patton Declan A. , Huber Colin M. , Margulies Susan S. , Master Christina L. , Arbogast Kristy B.
Published: November 2021

Field studies have evaluated the accuracy of sensors to measure head impact exposure using video analysis, but few have studied false negatives. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate the proportion of potential false negatives in high school soccer head impact data. High school athletes (23 females and 31 males) wore headband-mounted Smart Impact Monitor-G impact sensors during competitive soccer games. Video footage from 41 varsity games was analyzed by 2 independent reviewers to identify head contact events, which were defined as visually observed contact to the head. Of the 1991 video-identified head contact events for which sensors were functioning and worn by the players, 1094 (55%) were recorded by the sensors. For female players, 45% of video-identified head contact events were recorded by the sensor compared with 59% for male players. For both females and males, sensitivity varied by impact mechanism. By quantifying the proportion of potential false negatives, the sensitivity of a sensor can be characterized, which can inform the interpretation of previous studies and the design of future studies using head impact sensors. Owing to the difficulty in obtaining ground truth labels of head impacts, video review should be considered a complementary tool to head impact sensors.
What the Physical Activity Community Can Do for Climate Action and Planetary Health?
Authors: Reis Rodrigo , Hunter Ruth F. , Garcia Leandro , Salvo Deborah
Published: November 2021

We are experiencing a planetary tipping point with global warming, environmental degradation, and losses in biodiversity. The burdens of these changes fall disproportionately on poor and marginalized populations. Physical activity promotion strategies need to be aligned with climate action commitments, incorporating the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change scenarios in physical activity action plans. The promotion strategies must consider equity a core value and promote physical activity to the most vulnerable populations so that they are protected from the ill-health impacts of a changing climate.