bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coal char effects on soil chemical properties and maize yields in semi‐arid region
Authors: Panday Dinesh , Mikha Maysoon M. , Sun Xiaocun , Maharjan Bijesh
Published: February 2021

Soil amendments with high carbon (C) content can be effective in semi‐arid regions where soils are characterized by low C. A field study was conducted in 2016–2018 to evaluate the effect of char on soil chemical properties and irrigated maize (Zea mays L.) yields in sandy loam fertilized with urea or composted manure. Carbon‐rich char used was a product of coal combustion residue from a local factory in western Nebraska. The experiment was arranged in a split‐plot randomized complete block design in four replications with char (0, 6.7, 13.4, 20.1, and 26.8 Mg C ha−1) as main and N treatment (0, 90, 180, and 270 kg urea‐N ha−1 and 33.6 and 67.2 Mg ha−1 of composted manure) as subplot factors. A handheld spectral sensor was used to determine normalized difference red edge (NDRE) at growth stages (V6, V8, V10, and R1) in 2017 and 2018. After 2 yr, char increased Fe, reduced pH at lower rates, and increased K and Mg at higher rates in top 20 cm soil but did not affect crop yields. Char applied at ≥13.4 Mg C ha−1 increased soil organic C by ≥8% and composted manure increased soil P and K compared to the control. There was a strong correlation of NDRE with N rates and grain yields at V8 and V10. This study found no adverse effect of char on soil properties. However, more site‐specific research is needed before char can be used as a regular soil amendment in semi‐arid regions.
Wheat nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur uptake dynamics under different management practices
Authors: De Oliveira Silva Amanda , Jaenisch Brent R. , Ciampitti Ignacio A. , Lollato Romulo P.
Published: February 2021

Information is limited on the effect of intensified management on winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) nutrient uptake dynamics. Our goal was to evaluate the effect of agronomic practices on wheat yield and uptake of N, P, K, and S by evaluating the (a) nutrient utilization and uptake at varying yield levels, (b) variation in nutrient concentration as function of biomass, and (c) plant nutritional status. The genotype ‘Everest’ was grown under standard (SM) and intensive (IM) management. Treatments (i.e., N, Cl, and S fertilizers, fungicide, plant density, and growth regulator) were individually added to the SM or removed from the IM controls. The IM control increased yield by as much as 0.9 Mg ha−1 and uptake of N, K, and S by 37, 30, and 60%, respectively, relative to the SM control, with no changes in P uptake. Fungicide was the main treatment limiting yield and nutrient uptake, and its removal from the IM control reduced yield by 1 Mg ha−1 and nutrient uptake in high disease‐pressure seasons. Across all treatments and nutrients, 20% of the uptake at maturity was accumulated by stem elongation, 50% at flag leaf, and 70% at heading. The IM control maintained higher shoot nutrient concentration relative to the SM control during the season, increasing nutrition indices for N and S, and indicating possible luxury uptake under IM. Intensification strategies may increase nutrient demand but it does not seem to affect the overall timing and rate of uptake during the season.
Agricultural data management and sharing: Best practices and case study
Authors: Moore Eli K. , Kriesberg Adam , Schroeder Steven , Geil Kerrie , Haugen Inga , Barford Carol , Johns Erica M. , Arthur Dan , Sheffield Megan , Ritchie Stephanie M. , Jackson Carolyn , Parr Cynthia
Published: February 2021

Agricultural data are crucial to many aspects of production, commerce, and research involved in feeding the global community. However, in most agricultural research disciplines standard best practices for data management and publication do not exist. Here we propose a set of best practices in the areas of peer review, minimal dataset development, data repositories, citizen science initiatives, and support for best data management. We illustrate some of these best practices with a case study in dairy agroecosystems research. While many common, and increasingly disparate data management and publication practices are entrenched in agricultural disciplines, opportunities are readily available for promoting and adopting best practices that better enable and enhance data‐intensive agricultural research and production.
Olfactory cleft mucus inflammatory proteins in CRS: a case‐control study
Authors: Smith Timothy L. , Schlosser Rodney J. , Soler Zachary M. , Mace Jess C. , Mattos Jose L. , Ramakrishnan Vijay R. , Beswick Daniel M. , Alt Jeremiah A. , Mulligan Jennifer K.
Published: February 2021

Background

Multiple hypotheses are evolving that suggest several, potentially overlapping etiologies for olfactory dysfunction (OD) in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Understanding inflammatory cytokine profiles of the olfactory cleft (OC) and their association with olfactory function is foundational for future clinical care and research.

Methods

This cross‐sectional, case‐control study evaluates associations among OC mucus inflammatory proteins, psychophysical olfactory testing, and computed tomography (CT) analysis of the OC and sinuses. Normative reference intervals were determined for each protein and odds ratios (ORs) were used to compare proportions of altered expression between CRS without nasal polyposis (CRSsNP) and CRS without nasal polyposis (CRSwNP).

Results

Case subjects with CRS (n = 151) and controls (n = 74) were evaluated. A majority of OC proteins tested were found within detectable ranges for cases and controls. The CRS cohort had significantly higher concentrations for 23 of 26 proteins. CRS cases with abnormal levels of C‐C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), CCL3, interleukin 5 (IL5), IL10, and IL13 associated with greater olfactory deficits. The prevalence of elevated IL5 and IL13 in anosmic patients was 64.6% and 62.5%, respectively (p < 0.004). CRS cases with the highest odds of elevated expression in CRSwNP were IL5 (OR = 10.83) and IL13 (OR = 8.36). However, both IL5 and IL13 were still elevated in approximately 14% of CRSsNP patients. The highest magnitude of correlation between the total percent of OC opacification was found to be with IL5 (r = 0.543; p < 0.001), whereas other moderate correlations were noted with immunoglobulin E (IgE), IL10, and IL13.

Conclusion

This study confirmed that OC inflammatory proteins vary both by disease phenotype and in their association with OD. Type 2 inflammatory mediators are increased in CRS, especially within the CRSwNP group. However, a substantial proportion of CRSsNP also express type 2 inflammatory mediators. Further research is necessary to understand the complex roles OC mucous inflammatory proteins might play in defining endotype and in impacting CRS‐related OD. ©2021 ARSAAOA, LLC.
Asthma increases long‐term revision rates of endoscopic sinus surgery in chronic rhinosinusitis with and without nasal polyposis
Authors: Gill Amarbir S. , Smith Kristine A. , Meeks Huong , Oakley Gretchen M. , Curtin Karen , LeClair Laurie , Howe Heather , Orlandi Richard R. , Alt Jeremiah A.
Published: February 2021

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis with asthma (CRS‐A) has a significant impact on patient morbidity and quality of life. Nevertheless, little is known about the natural history of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in this cohort. The objective of this study was to evaluate revision rates of ESS in CRS‐A and identify risk factors associated with increased likelihood for revision surgery compared to those with CRS without asthma (CRS‐alone).

Methods

The Utah Population Database was queried for patients age >18 years with CRS who underwent at least 1 ESS between 1996 and 2018. Demographic information and history of ESS were collected and compared between CRS‐A and CRS‐alone using chi‐square tests for categorical variables and t tests for continuous variables. Risk factors for revision surgery were analyzed using Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

A total of 33,090 patients (7693 CRS‐A and 25,397 CRS‐alone) were included in the final analysis. Mean follow up was 9.8 years in CRS‐A and 9.1 years in CRS‐alone (p < 0.001). The revision rate among patients with CRS‐A (21.5%) was twice that of CRS‐alone (10.8%) (p < 0.001). Among patients with CRS, a history of allergy (p < 0.001), asthma (p < 0.001), and nasal polyposis (p < 0.001) was independently associated with increased risk of revision ESS. Patients with CRS‐A and nasal polyposis were 6 times more likely to require revision surgery than those with CRS‐alone (p < 0.010).

Conclusion

The rate of revision ESS in CRS‐A was twice that of CRS‐alone; patients with CRS‐A and nasal polyposis were 6 times more likely to require revision than those with CRS‐alone. ©2021 ARSAAOA, LLC.
Regulating the Local Charge Distribution of Ni Active Sites for the Urea Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Wang Liping , Zhu Yajie , Wen Yunzhou , Li Shangyu , Cui Chunyu , Ni Fenglou , Liu Yunxia , Lin Haiping , Li Youyong , Peng Huisheng , Zhang Bo
Published: February 2021

In electrochemical energy storage and conversion systems, the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) accounts for a large proportion of the energy consumption. The electrocatalytic urea oxidation reaction (UOR) is one of the promising alternatives to OER, owing to its low thermodynamic potential. However, owing to the sluggish UOR kinetics, its potential in practical use has not been unlocked. Herein, we developed a tungsten‐doped nickel catalyst (Ni‐WOx) with superior activity towards UOR. The Ni‐WOx catalyst exhibited record fast reaction kinetics (440 mA cm−2 at 1.6 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode) and a high turnover frequency of 0.11 s−1, which is 4.8 times higher than that without W dopants. In further experiments, we found that the W dopant regulated the local charge distribution of Ni atoms, leading to the formation of Ni3+ sites with superior activity and thus accelerating the interfacial catalytic reaction. Moreover, when we integrated Ni‐WOx into a CO2 flow electrolyzer, the cell voltage is reduced to 2.16 V accompanying with ≈98 % Faradaic efficiency towards carbon monoxide.
Nanoparticle‐Assisted Cation Adduction and Fragmentation of Small Metabolites
Authors: Sun Shiyu , Liu Wanshan , Yang Jing , Wang Hang , Qian Kun
Published: February 2021

Mass spectrometry (MS) promises small‐metabolite profiling as a tool of the future and calls for the comprehensive understanding of key procedures to enhance its capability. Herein, we studied cation adduction and fragmentation of small metabolites by a combination of theoretical and experimental approaches, via nanoparticle‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (LDI)‐MS and MS/MS. We calculated the energies of adduction conformers and atomic bond orders to establish the rules of cation–metabolite affinity and multiple cation adductions in charge transfer. Further, we demonstrated the reaction paths of adducted ions and mapped the potential energy surfaces to characterize the loss of given groups during fragmentation. Finally, we successfully controlled metabolite fragmentation by selected and multiple adductions to enhance the atomic/fragment coverage as defined for metabolite identification toward profiling. Considering the success of MS in the analysis of large biomolecules, our work may have an impact and guide to advanced analysis of small metabolites.
sp3Bis‐Organometallic Reagents via Catalytic 1,1‐Difunctionalization of Unactivated Olefins
Authors: Sun Shang‐Zheng , Talavera Laura , Spieß Philipp , Day Craig S. , Martin Ruben
Published: February 2021

A catalytic 1,1‐difunctionalization of unactivated olefins en route to sp3 bis‐organometallic B,B(Si)‐reagents is described. The protocol is characterized by exceptional reaction rates, mild conditions, wide scope, and exquisite selectivity pattern, constituting a new platform to access sp3 bis‐organometallics.
Recent advances and trends in the biomimetic iron‐catalyzed asymmetric epoxidation
Authors: Radhika Sankaran , Aneeja Thaipparambil , Philip Rose Mary , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: February 2021

Enantiomerically pure epoxides are extremely beneficial structural scaffolds in synthetic organic and medicinal chemistry. Complexes based on iron with ligands featuring oxygen or nitrogen atom donors gained much recognition and interest in catalysis owing to the propensity of these complexes in realizing various reactions including epoxidation. This review is devoted to the recent prospects and developments in biomimetic iron‐catalyzed asymmetric epoxidation and summarizes reports during the period 2014 to 2020.
Metabolism and chromatin: A dynamic duo that regulates development and ageing
Authors: Pouikli Andromachi , Tessarz Peter
Published: February 2021

Bone‐marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BM‐MSC) proliferation and lineage commitment are under the coordinated control of metabolism and epigenetics; the MSC niche contains low oxygen, which is an important determinant of the cellular metabolic state. In turn, metabolism drives stem cell fate decisions via alterations of the chromatin landscape. Due to the fundamental role of BM‐MSCs in the development of adipose tissue, bones and cartilage, age‐associated changes in metabolism and the epigenome perturb the balance between stem cell proliferation and differentiation leading to stem cell depletion, fat accumulation and bone‐quality related diseases. Therefore, understanding the dynamics of the metabolism‐chromatin interplay is crucial for maintaining the stem cell pool and delaying the development and progression of ageing. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the role of metabolism in stem cell identity and highlights the impact of the metabolic inputs on the epigenome, with regards to stemness and pluripotency.
Efficacy of mesenchymal stromal cells and cellular products in improvement of symptoms for COVID‐19 and similar lung diseases
Authors: Banimohamad‐Shotorbani Behnaz , Farajpour Hekmat , Sefat Farshid , Khosroshahi Shiva Ahdi , Shafaei Hajar , Heidari keshel Saeed
Published: February 2021

At the end of 2019, respiratory coronavirus diseases 2019 (COVID‐19) appeared and spread rapidly in the world. Besides several mutations, the outcome of this pandemic was the death up to 15% of hospitalized patients. Mesenchymal stromal cell therapy as a therapeutic strategy seemed successful in treatment of several diseases. Not only mesenchymal stromal cells of several tissues, but also their secreted extracellular vesicles and even secretome indicated beneficial therapeutic function. All of these three options were studied for treatment of COVID‐19 as well as those respiratory diseases that have similar symptom. Fortunately, most of the outcomes were promising and optimistic. In this paper, we review in‐vivo and clinical studies which have been used different sources of mesenchymal stromal cell, secreted extracellular vesicles, and secretome to improve and treat symptoms of COVID‐19 and similar lung diseases.
Obtaining and evaluation of polyethylene nanocomposites with graphene nanoplatelets through in‐situ ethylene polymerization
Authors: Caraballo Andrés , Pérez‐Camacho Odilia , Martínez‐Colunga Juan G. , Fernández‐Tavizón Salvador , Sierra‐Gómez Uriel A. , Aguayo‐Villarreal Ismael A. , Comparán‐Padilla Víctor E.
Published: February 2021

In‐situ polymerization of ethylene with graphene has been previously studied; however, the reported nanocomposites exhibit poor filler dispersion, even at low graphene loadings. In the present work, well dispersed and homogeneous graphene nanoplatelets (GNP)‐high density polyethylene (HDPE) nanocomposites were obtained in up to 12.5% weight content of graphene through an in‐situ polymerization of ethylene in graphene suspensions. The composites' potential as masterbatches was evaluated by melt mixing them with commercial HDPE. The obtained materials exhibited important physical‐mechanical properties increases when compared with those of commercial HDPE. To our knowledge, our materials' GNP concentration (≤0.82 wt.%) is the lowest reported, with the composites showing a 27% increase in their maximum tensile strength and a 41% increase in their flexural modulus when compared with blank HDPE. In addition, Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses give evidence of the higher exfoliation degree of GNP obtained in the in‐situ ethylene polymerizations.
Necklace‐embedded electrocardiogram for the detection and diagnosis of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Santala Onni E. , Lipponen Jukka A. , Jäntti Helena , Rissanen Tuomas T. , Halonen Jari , Kolk Indrek , Pohjantähti‐Maaroos Hanna , Tarvainen Mika P. , Väliaho Eemu‐Samuli , Hartikainen Juha , Martikainen Tero
Published: February 2021

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the major cause of stroke since approximately 25% of all strokes are of cardioembolic‐origin. The detection and diagnosis of AF are often challenging due to the asymptomatic and intermittent nature of AF.

Hypothesis

A wearable electrocardiogram (ECG)‐device could increase the likelihood of AF detection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and reliability of a novel, consumer‐grade, single‐lead ECG recording device (Necklace‐ECG) for screening, identifying and diagnosing of AF both by a cardiologist and automated AF‐detection algorithms.

Methods

A thirty‐second ECG was recorded with the Necklace‐ECG device from two positions; between the palms (palm) and between the palm and the chest (chest). Simultaneously registered 3‐lead ECGs (Holter) served as a golden standard for the final rhythm diagnosis. Two cardiologists interpreted independently in a blinded fashion the Necklace‐ECG recordings from 145 patients (66 AF and 79 sinus rhythm, SR). In addition, the Necklace‐ECG recordings were analyzed with an automatic AF detection algorithm.

Results

Two cardiologists diagnosed the correct rhythm of the interpretable Necklace‐ECG with a mean sensitivity of 97.2% and 99.1% (palm and chest, respectively) and specificity of 100% and 98.5%. The automatic arrhythmia algorithm detected the correct rhythm with a sensitivity of 94.7% and 98.3% (palm and chest) and specificity of 100% of the interpretable measurements.

Conclusions

The novel Necklace‐ECG device is able to detect AF with high sensitivity and specificity as evaluated both by cardiologists and an automated AF‐detection algorithm. Thus, the wearable Necklace‐ECG is a new, promising method for AF screening. Clinical trial registration: Study was registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov database (NCT03753139).
Synthetic Enzyme‐Catalyzed CO2 Fixation Reactions
Authors: Aleku Godwin A. , Roberts George W. , Titchiner Gabriel R. , Leys David
Published: February 2021

In recent years, (de)carboxylases that catalyze reversible (de)carboxylation have been targeted for application as carboxylation catalysts. This has led to the development of proof‐of‐concept (bio)synthetic CO2 fixation routes for chemical production. However, further progress towards industrial application has been hampered by the thermodynamic constraint that accompanies fixing CO2 to organic molecules. In this Review, biocatalytic carboxylation methods are discussed with emphases on the diverse strategies devised to alleviate the inherent thermodynamic constraints and their application in synthetic CO2‐fixation cascades.
Anaplastic diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma cytologically diagnosed in pleural effusion: Report of two cases
Authors: AbdullGaffar Badr , Seliem Rania
Published: February 2021

Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) has some rare special subtypes. Anaplastic variant has the immunophenotypic and genotypic features of DLBCL, and is characterized by the presence of large bizarre hallmark‐like and Reed‐Sternberg‐Hodgkin‐like cells. Lymphoblastic lymphoma and DLBCL, non‐otherwise specified are the most common lymphoma effusions in adults. Lymphomas in effusion fluids usually show a homogenous uniform population of either small, medium or large cells depending on lymphoma types. Anaplastic pleomorphic lymphoid cells in pleural effusions are not common cytologic findings. Effusions due to lymphomas with large bizarre anaplastic cells, such as anaplastic large cell lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphomas, are rare. Presence of anaplastic cells in effusion fluid is diagnostically challenging. They may be confused with nonlymphoid malignancies. Certain cytomorphologic features are helpful clues. Ancillary immunocytochemistry is a useful confirmatory tool in doubtful cases. We report two cases of anaplastic variant‐DLBCL (ADLBCL) cytologically diagnosed in elderly female patients with bilateral pleural effusions. Cytologic examination of effusion fluids showed predominantly medium‐large mononuclear uniform cells intermixed with frequent large pleomorphic mononuclear and binucleated cells, and bizarre multinucleated giant cells. Background showed karyorrhexis and absent mixed inflammatory infiltrates. A panel of immunocytochemistry markers in cell block sections confirmed B‐cell phenotype of the neoplastic and anaplastic cells. Lymph node biopsy supplemented with immunohistochemistry confirmed the cytologic diagnosis. Even though the presence of anaplastic cells may be confused with other malignancies, cytopathologists should consider ADLBCL in the differential diagnosis of lymphomas with large pleomorphic cells, look for certain cytomorphologic clues and implement an appropriate immunocytochemistry panel.
Adolescent stress during, but not after, pubertal onset impairs indices of prepulse inhibition in adult rats
Authors: Drzewiecki Carly M. , Willing Jari , Cortes Laura R. , Juraska Janice M.
Published: February 2021

Exposure to stress during adolescence is a risk factor for developing several psychiatric disorders, many of which involve prefrontal cortex (PFC) dysfunction. The human PFC and analogous rodent medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) continue to mature functionally and anatomically during adolescence, and some of these maturational events coincide with pubertal onset. As developing brain regions are more susceptible to the negative effects of stress, this may make puberty especially vulnerable. To test this, we exposed male and female rats to isolation and restraint stress during the onset of puberty or during the post‐pubertal period of adolescence. In young adulthood, both stressed groups and an unstressed control group underwent testing on a battery of tasks to assess emotional and cognitive behaviors, and the volume of the mPFC was quantified postmortem. Factor analysis revealed only subjects stressed peri‐pubertally showed a long‐term deficiency compared to controls in prepulse inhibition. Additionally, both sexes showed volumetric mPFC decreases following adolescent stress, and these losses were most pronounced in females. Our findings suggest that pubertal onset may be a vulnerable window wherein adolescents are most susceptible to the negative consequences of stress exposure. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of accounting for pubertal status when studying adolescents.
Towards an untargeted mass spectrometric approach for improved screening in equine antidoping
Authors: Keen Bethany , Cawley Adam , Fouracre Chris , Pyke James , Fu Shanlin
Published: February 2021

The emergence of novel doping agents is a continuous issue for analysts who aim to maintain the integrity of horseracing together with the well‐being and safety of the animals and riders involved. Untargeted mass spectrometric analysis presents a potential improvement for antidoping as it enables the detection of compounds being indirectly affected by an administered drug. In this study, liquid chromatography–high‐resolution mass spectrometry was used to investigate a 12‐horse administration study of the synthetic opioid, butorphanol. A mass spectrometric workflow capable of detecting metabolic differences for an extended period of time was successfully developed. This proof‐of‐concept study demonstrates the potential of untargeted workflows to provide a list of biomarkers of exposure and effect that are indicative of drug administration which may be implemented into routine testing for improved doping control.
Predicting human age by detecting DNA methylation status in hair
Authors: Hao Ting , Guo Jiangling , Liu Jinding , Wang Jiaqi , Liu Zidong , Cheng Xiaojuan , Li Jintao , Ren Jianbo , Li Zeqin , Yan Jiangwei , Zhang Gengqian
Published: February 2021

Age prediction is of great importance for criminal investigation and judicial expertise. DNA methylation status is considered a promising method to infer tissue age by virtue of age‐dependent changes on methylation sites. In recent years, forensic scientists have established various models to predict the chronological age of blood, saliva, and semen based on DNA methylation status. However, hair‐inferred age has not been studied in the field of forensic science. In this study, we measured the methylation statuses of potential age‐related CpG sites by using the multiplex methylation SNaPshot method. A total of 10 CpG sites from the LAG3, SCGN, ELOVL2, KLF14, C1orf132, SLC12A5, GRIA2, and PDE4C genes were found to be tightly associated with age in hair follicles. A correlation coefficient above 0.7 was found for four CpG sites (cg24724428 and Chr6:11044628 in ELOVL2, cg25148589 in GRIA2, and cg07547549 in SLC12A5). Among four age‐prediction models, the multiple linear regression model consisting of 10 CpG sites provided the best‐fitting results, with a median absolute deviation of 3.68 years. It is feasible to obtain both human identification and age information from a single scalp hair follicle. No significant differences in methylation degree were found between different sexes, hair types, or hair colors. In conclusion, we established a method to evaluate chronological age by assessing DNA methylation status in hair follicles.
Estimating PEMFC ohmic internal impedance based on indirect measurements
Authors: Wei Yongqi , Zhao Yulan , Yun Haitao
Published: February 2021

In this study, the ohmic internal impedance of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is explored. A double Kalman filter (DKF) method is proposed to estimate the internal ohmic impedance based on the monitor output current density and voltage when the fuel cell is operated in the ohmic polarization region. First, the working current density is set between 0.4 and 1 A cm−2 by carrying out an initial experiment to obtain the PEMFC polarization curve. The PEMFC is assumed to be an equivalent circuit when the output current density is set in this range. Second, an experiment is also performed within the custom‐built platform based on the DKF algorithm. Monitoring data are obtained by Hall sensors in the direct current (DC) converter, and the stack ohmic resistance is calculated by the designed PEMFC internal resistance algorithm. Finally, verification is accomplished by comparing the simulated voltage based on the ohmic resistance with the experimentally measured output voltage using MATLAB/Simulink. The feasibility of this method to estimate the ohmic resistance is demonstrated. The ohmic internal resistance of the PEMFC is obtained in real time by the designed algorithm. Furthermore, the results indicate that moisture in the proton exchange membrane (PEM) can be reflected by the internal ohmic resistance of the PEMFC. The moisture can be adjusted based on this estimated impedance.
Leaf venation of Lauraceae species (excluding Ocotea) from the Reserva Natural Vale, Linhares, Espírito Santo, Brazil
Authors: de Moraes Pedro Luís Rodrigues , da Cruz Isabel Cristina Lima , Coan Alessandra Ike , Tomazello Filho Mario
Published: February 2021

With the aim of recognizing and identifying both fertile and sterile specimens of Lauraceae from the Reserva Natural Vale, Linhares, we analyzed the leaf venation pattern of 20 species belonging to 11 genera. The venation patterns of 12 species are described and illustrated for the first time here. A dichotomous identification key was built from a matrix of 12 venation characters with 38 states, which allowes to distinguish the taxa.
A geoarchaeological study of the construction of the Laona tumulus at Palaepaphos, Cyprus
Authors: Gkouma Myrsini , Karkanas Panagiotis , Iacovou Maria
Published: February 2021

The tumulus of Palaepaphos‐Laona is a monumental earthwork. Its size makes it unique in the landscape of ancient Cyprus, where even smaller burial mounds are extremely rare. It is characterized by a composite s616sequence and a wide range of carefully arranged construction materials. To reconstruct the building process, we employed a geoarchaeological approach, including a high‐resolution microstratigraphic analysis. The study reveals a careful selection of construction materials and variability in the construction methods, reflecting a long tradition of building skills and empirical knowledge regarding the materials' engineering properties. It is evident that the tumulus of Laona was not a product of earth accumulation but an accomplished architectural structure. Several building stages were recorded, which along with repairs and intervals of exposure of the sediments, they represent temporal cycles of different nature and magnitude. As the height of the structure gradually increased, the tumulus became an imposing physical mark that gave the landscape a new meaning. Nevertheless, the memory of the ancestral testimony it was meant to convey to future generations was lost.
Stream discharge and water quality data for East Fork Poplar Creek beginning 2012
Authors: Brooks Scott C. , Riscassi Ami L. , Lowe Kenneth A.
Published: February 2021

This data note describes 15‐min discharge and in situ water quality data at two locations along East Fork Poplar Creek in east Tennessee, USA. Data records include temperature, gauge height, water surface elevation above mean sea level, and volumetric discharge. Water quality measurements include temperature, specific conductance, pH, dissolved oxygen (percent saturation and concentration), turbidity, and less extensive fDOM data at one site. The data records begin in 2012 at one site and 2015 at the second site; monitoring at both sites is ongoing (as of 2021). The goal of this data collection is to improve understanding of watershed functions, hydrologic dynamics, and material flux. The data will contribute to site conceptual and numerical models, exposure and risk evaluation, remediation selection and design, and performance monitoring. The data are publicly available and can be accessed via unique url or DOI.
Turkey Lakes Watershed, Ontario, Canada: 40 years of interdisciplinary whole‐ecosystem research
Authors: Webster Kara L. , Leach Jason A. , Hazlett Paul W. , Fleming Robert L. , Emilson Erik J. S. , Houle Daniel , Chan Kara H. Y. , Norouzian Fariborz , Cole Amanda S. , O'Brien Jason M. , Smokorowski Karen E. , Nelson Stephanie A. , Yanni Shelagh D.
Published: February 2021

The Turkey Lakes Watershed (TLW) study is a federal, interdepartmental study established in 1979 to investigate the effects of acid rain on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The 10.5 km2 watershed, located in the Eastern Temperate Mixed Forest on the Canadian Shield, has been the site of multidisciplinary studies on biogeochemical and ecological processes conducted across plot to catchment scales. The whole‐ecosystem investigative approach was adopted from the outset and has allowed research to evolve from its original (and continuing) acidification focus to include investigations on the effects of climate change, forest harvesting and other forest ecosystem perturbations. The extensive scientific and support infrastructure allows for collection of a comprehensive data record essential for understanding long‐term environmental trends. Data include atmospheric deposition, meteorology, stream hydrology and chemistry, soil, pore and ground water properties, understory and overstory vegetation, lake and outflow physical and chemical properties, and aquatic macroinvertebrate and fish community composition and abundance. These data have contributed to over 400 published research papers and graduate theses. The watershed has also figured prominently in many continent‐wide comparisons advancing fundamental watershed theory. The knowledge gained at TLW has influenced pollutant emission and natural resource management policies provincially, nationally and internationally.
Bioinformatics analysis of the prognosis and biological significance of VCAN in gastric cancer
Authors: Huang Xiao‐yan , Liu Jin‐jian , Liu Xiong , Wang Yao‐hui , Xiang Wei
Published: February 2021

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common cancers in the world, and the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a vital role in the occurrence and development of GC. In this study, we obtained differential expressed genes in GC tissues from The Cancer Genome Atlas. After ESTIMATE and weighted correlation network analysis, we obtained differentially expressed genes (DEGs). With further screening DEGs of immune infiltration and then through Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis and COX analysis, we found that VCAN was a gene positively correlated with high immune infiltration and poor prognosis of patients in GC. In addition, we selected a Gene Expression Omnibus dataset (GSE84433) to verify the effect of VCAN on the patient's prognosis, and analyzed the value of VCAN in immunotherapy through TIMER database and TISIDB. In conclusion, we hold the view that VCAN may affect the development of GC by regulating the TME, which may act as a potential therapeutic target for GC.
Reliability and diagnostic performance of smartphone colposcopy
Authors: Aydın Serdar , Karasu Ayse F. G. , Maraşlı Mustafa , Bademler Neslihan , Kıran Gürkan , Dural Hanife R.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To evaluate the interobserver and intraobserver reliability of smartphone colposcopy (SPC) versus conventional colposcopy and to determine diagnostic performance.

Methods

A smartphone back camera was used to capture cervical images before and after application of acetic acid, and after application of lugol solution. Captured images were reviewed independently by two experienced colposcopists and findings were noted as per colposcopy. Smartphone‐based diagnostic performance was calculated, and kappa statistics were used for measurement of agreement between SPC and conventional colposcopy findings.

Results

A total of 114 women were included in the study. The kappa statistic for intraobserver reliability was 0.77 for both normal colposcopic findings and the transformation zone, indicating substantial agreement. Kappa values were 0.54 for acetowhite epithelium, 0.51 for lugol staining, and 0.51–0.60 for atypical vascularization. Kappa values for interobserver reliability were 0.76 for normal colposcopic findings, 0.56 for acetowhite epithelium, and 0.60 for lugol staining. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of SPC for CIN2+ were 88.2 (95% CI, 72.5–96.7), 48.7 (95% CI, 37.4–60.2), 0.42 (95% CI, 0.36–0.48), and 0.91 (95% CI, 0.79–0.96), respectively.

Conclusion

SPC showed substantial agreement between the histologic diagnoses based on the captured images and conventional colposcopic findings.
Molecular docking and dynamics simulation to screen interactive potency and stability of fungicide tebuconazole with thyroid and sex hormone‐binding globulin: Implications of endocrine and reproductive interruptions
Authors: Abdi Sayed Aliul Hasan , Alzahrani Abdulaziz , Asad Mohammad , Alquraini Ali , Alghamdi Adel Ibrahi , Sayed Shabihul Fatma
Published: February 2021

Tebuconazole is a widely used fungicide in agriculture, and it may easily enter in the human food chain. In addition, tebuconzaol skin permeation coefficient (Log Kp) is −5.55 cm/s and it does not violate Lipinski's rule. It may mimic as a ligand for various endocrine and reproductive receptor leading to toxicological response or disease manifestation. We studied interactive potential of tebuconazole with thyroid and sex hormone‐binding globulin. The main methods for this in silico analyses are molecular docking and molecular dynamic (MD) simulation. This paper explores how agriculture fungicide tebuconzaol exposure can be a risk for endocrine and reprotoxicity due to its stable interactive potency with thyroid and sex hormone‐binding globulin (2CEO and 1D2S). Thyroid impairment is one of the most common endocrine issues in human health. In molecular docking analyses, tebuconazole exhibited binding potency of −6.28 kcal/mol with 2CEO compared to its native ligand thyroxin and inhibitor propylthiouracil which had the binding potency of −9.9 and −4.49 kcal/mol, respectively. The binding score of tebuconzaol with 1D2S was found to be −7.54 kcal/mol compared to native ligand dihydrotestosteron and inhibitor aminoglutethimide which exhibited the binding score of −6.84 and −11.41 kcal/mol, respectively. Therefore, each complex was subjected to MD simulation for comparative assessment of physical movement. The root mean square deviation (RMSD), root mean square fluctuation (RMSF), Radius of Gyration and hydrogen bonding exhibited that fluconazole had stable binding pattern with 2CEO and 1D2S which was almost similar to native ligand and its inhibitor. Study revealed that tebuconazole may lead to potent endocrine and reproductive disruptions.
Psychosocial and Tangible Distance Between a Leader and a Follower: The Impact on Dyadic Relations
Authors: Meirovich Gavriel , Goswami Ashita
Published: February 2021

The goal of the present study was to analyze how interactions between intangible and tangible dimensions of distance between a leader and a follower were intertwined with interpersonal conflict, leader–member exchange (LMX), and satisfaction with a leader. The current research demonstrated that there was a significant relationship among psychosocial distance, physical distance, and the frequency of communication, and that these types of distance were not independent, as had been claimed in the previous research. In addition, physical distance positively moderated the relationship between psychosocial distance and conflict with a leader. The implication is that when physical distance becomes too small, an increased interaction will not fit high psychosocial distance between parties, and conflict will exacerbate. LMX and satisfaction with a leader mediated the relationship between psychosocial distance and both physical distance and frequency of communication. Two dimensions of tangible distance have dissimilar effects. More dynamic communication component can be altered more easily and maintain equilibrium in relationship. Less flexible physical distance leads to potential misfit with psychosocial distance and to a leader–follower conflict. Psychosocial distance should not be equated with differences. The latter can be of a complementary nature, and as such, reduce distance.
A pilot double‐blind safety and feasibility randomized controlled trial of high‐dose intravenous zinc in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Patel Oneel , Chinni Vidyasagar , El‐Khoury John , Perera Marlon , Neto Ary S. , McDonald Christine , See Emily , Jones Daryl , Bolton Damien , Bellomo Rinaldo , Trubiano Jason , Ischia Joseph
Published: February 2021

Zinc inhibits replication of the SARS‐CoV virus. We aimed to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and biological effect of administering high‐dose intravenous zinc (HDIVZn) to patients with COVID‐19. We performed a Phase IIa double‐blind, randomized controlled trial to compare HDIVZn to placebo in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19. We administered trial treatment per day for a maximum of 7 days until either death or hospital discharge. We measured zinc concentration at baseline and during treatment and observed patients for any significant side effects. For eligible patients, we randomized and administered treatment to 33 adult participants to either HDIVZn (n = 15) or placebo (n = 18). We observed no serious adverse events throughout the study for a total of 94 HDIVZn administrations. However, three participants in the HDIVZn group reported infusion site irritation. Mean serum zinc on Day 1 in the placebo, and the HDIVZn group was 6.9 ± 1.1 and 7.7 ± 1.6 µmol/l, respectively, consistent with zinc deficiency. HDIVZn, but not placebo, increased serum zinc levels above the deficiency cutoff of 10.7 µmol/l (p < .001) on Day 6. Our study did not reach its target enrollment because stringent public health measures markedly reduced patient hospitalizations. Hospitalized COVID‐19 patients demonstrated zinc deficiency. This can be corrected with HDIVZn. Such treatment appears safe, feasible, and only associated with minimal peripheral infusion site irritation. This pilot study justifies further investigation of this treatment in COVID‐19 patients.
Graph theoretical exploration for the solutions of the kinetics rate equations of nonchain complex reaction networks
Authors: Mondal Sukanya , Mandal Bholanath
Published: February 2021

Nonchain complex reactions involving active center, intermediate(s), by‐products, and the final product(s) are explored with the use of graph theory for solving their rate equations. Three such reaction schemes in a varying number of intermediates are solved for the concentrations of the species involved at any instant of time (t). Time derivatives of these solutions result in the reaction rates of the species concerned. The time functions of rates and concentrations for three successive reaction schemes are then used to generalize the respective solutions for reaction scheme having n intermediates. The rate equations are approximated in three different time regions and are found that: (i) at time t = 0, the rate of reaction of each of the intermediate(s), by‐products, and final product is zero; (ii) at t < < < τ (average life‐time of the active center and intermediate(s)), the reaction rate of an mth intermediate, an mth by‐product, or the final product bears proportionality relationship with tm; and (iii) at t > > > τ, the reaction rate of each of the intermediates is zero whereas that for each by‐product or final product is constant and is expressed from an initial rate multiplied by the product of the probabilities of reaction of the intermediate(s) concerned.
Roles of hepatic atypical protein kinase C hyperactivity and hyperinsulinemia in insulin‐resistant forms of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sajan Mini P. , Hansen Barbara C. , Acevedo‐Duncan Mildred , Kindy Mark S. , Cooper Denise R. , Farese Robert V.
Published: February 2021

Diet‐induced obesity, the metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes (DIO/MetS/T2DM), and their adverse sequelae have reached pandemic levels. In mice, DIO/MetS/T2DM initiation involves diet‐dependent increases in lipids that activate hepatic atypical PKC (aPKC) and thereby increase lipogenic enzymes and proinflammatory cytokines. These or other hepatic aberrations, via adverse liver‐to‐muscle cross talk, rapidly impair postreceptor insulin signaling to glucose transport in muscle. The ensuing hyperinsulinemia further activates hepatic aPKC, which first blocks the ability of Akt to suppress gluconeogenic enzyme expression, and later impairs Akt activation, further increasing hepatic glucose production. Recent findings suggest that hepatic aPKC also increases a proteolytic enzyme that degrades insulin receptors. Fortunately, all hepatic aberrations and muscle impairments are prevented/reversed by inhibition or deficiency of hepatic aPKC. But, in the absence of treatment, hyperinsulinemia induces adverse events, some by using “spare receptors” to bypass receptor defects. Thus, in brain, hyperinsulinemia increases Aβ‐plaque precursors and Alzheimer risk; in kidney, hyperinsulinemia activates the renin–angiotensin–adrenal axis, thus increasing vasoconstriction, sodium retention, and cardiovascular risk; and in liver, hyperinsulinemia increases lipogenesis, obesity, hepatosteatosis, hyperlipidemia, and cardiovascular risk. In summary, increases in hepatic aPKC are critically required for development of DIO/MetS/T2DM and its adverse sequelae, and therapeutic approaches that limit hepatic aPKC may be particularly effective.
Impaired Touchscreen Skills in Parkinson's Disease and Effects of Medication
Authors: De Vleeschhauwer Joni , Broeder Sanne , Janssens Luc , Heremans Elke , Nieuwboer Alice , Nackaerts Evelien
Published: February 2021

Background

Deficits in fine motor skills may impair device manipulation including touchscreens in people with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objectives

To investigate the impact of PD and anti‐parkinsonian medication on the ability to use touchscreens.

Methods

Twelve PD patients (H&Y II‐III), OFF and ON medication, and 12 healthy controls (HC) performed tapping, single and multi‐direction sliding tasks on a touchscreen and a mobile phone task (MPT). Task performance was compared between patients (PD‐OFF, PD‐ON) and HC and between medication conditions.

Results

Significant differences were found in touchscreen timing parameters, while accuracy was comparable between groups. PD‐OFF needed more time than HC to perform single (P = 0.048) and multi‐direction (P = 0.004) sliding tasks and to grab the dot before sliding (i.e., transition times) (P = 0.040; P = 0.004). For tapping, dopaminergic medication significantly increased performance times (P = 0.046) to comparable levels as those of HC. However, for the more complex multi‐direction sliding, movement times remained slower in PD than HC irrespective of medication intake (P < 0.050 during ON and OFF). The transition times for the multi‐direction sliding task was also higher in PD‐ON than HC (P = 0.048). Touchscreen parameters significantly correlated with MPT performance, supporting the ecological validity of the touchscreen tool.

Conclusions

PD patients show motor problems when manipulating touchscreens, even when optimally medicated. This hinders using mobile technology in daily life and has implications for developing adequate E‐health applications for this group. Future work needs to establish whether touchscreen training is effective in PD.
Preparation and characterization of flexible pressure sensor based on silver nanowires/nonwoven fabric
Authors: Zhang Hui‐mei , Zhang Yan , Zhang Jia‐wen , Ye Xu , Li Yuan‐yuan , Wang Ping
Published: February 2021

In this paper, two methods were adopted and compared to fabricate conductive cotton nonwoven fabric which can be used as flexible pressure sensor. One is named as ISSCF on which silver nanowires (AgNWs) were in situ synthesized forming a conductive network due to the existence of hydrogen bonding. The other one adopts dip‐coating method to prepare conductive fabric (DCCF) with synthesized AgNWs. The flexible pressure sensor with ISSCF shows a higher durability and sensitivity (7.41 kPa−1) than the sensor with DCCF. Moreover, the fast response and relaxation time (<50 ms) are acquired through fabricating flexible pressure sensors with ISSCF. It is found that the conductive cotton fabric layers play a significant role in deciding the capability of the flexible pressure sensors. This paper provides a new idea for flexible pressure sensor.