bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of solar geoengineering on temperatures over the Indonesian Maritime Continent
Authors: Kuswanto Heri , Kravitz Ben , Miftahurrohmah Brina , Fauzi Fatkhurokhman , Sopahaluwaken Ardhasena , Moore John
Published: September 2021

Climate change has been projected to increase the intensity and magnitude of extreme temperature in Indonesia. Solar radiation management (SRM) has been proposed as a strategy to temporarily combat global warming, buying time for negative emissions. Although the global impacts of SRM have been extensively studied in recent years, regional impacts, especially in the tropics, have received much less attention. This article investigates the potential stratospheric sulphate aerosol injection (SAI) to modify mean and extreme temperature, as well as the relative humidity and wet bulb temperature (WBT) change over Indonesian Maritime Continent (IMC) based on simulations from three different earth system models. We applied a simple downscaling method and corrected the bias of model output to reproduce historical temperatures and relative humidity over IMC. We evaluated changes in geoengineering model intercomparison project (GeoMIP) experiment G4, an SAI experiment in 5 Tg of SO2 into the equatorial lower stratosphere between 2020 and 2069, concurrent with the RCP4.5 emissions scenario. G4 is able to significantly reduce the temperature means and extremes, and although differences in magnitude of response and spatial pattern occur, there is a generally consistent response. The spatial response of changes forced by RCP4.5 scenario and G4 are notably heterogeneous in the archipelago, highlighting uncertainties that would be critical in assessing socio‐economic consequences of both doing, and not doing G4. In general, SAI has bigger impacts in reducing temperatures over land than oceans, and the southern monsoon region shows more variability. G4 is also effective at reducing the likelihood of WBT > 27°C events compared with RCP4.5 after some years of SAI deployment as well as during the post‐termination period of SAI. Regional downscaling may be an effective tool in obtaining policy‐relevant information about local effects of different future scenarios involving SAI.
The glottic–subglottic laryngectomy: Surgical technique, oncological, and functional outcomes
Authors: Bertolin Andy , Lionello Marco , Baldovin Maria , Ghirardo Guido , Rizzotto Giuseppe
Published: September 2021

Objectives

The aim of this article was to describe the surgical technique and report the oncological and functional outcomes of the partial glottic‐subglottic laryngectomy (GSL).

Methods

A retrospective review of the clinical charts of patients who underwent GSL for laryngeal cancer from 1989 to 2020 at the Otolaryngology Unit of the Vittorio Veneto Hospital, a referral center for laryngeal cancer treatment.

Results

The present article considered 36 patients who were submitted to GSL for laryngeal cancer. The pathological exam found squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in 16 cases, adenoid‐cystic carcinoma (ACC) in 9 cases, laryngeal chondrosarcoma in 8 cases, 1 giant cell carcinoma, 1 carcinosarcoma, and 1 metastasis of colon adenocarcinoma. Considering the 16 SCC cases we observed a recurrence rate of 31%, the overall survival (OS) and disease‐specific survival (DSS) were 75%. The 9 ACC cases had a recurrence rate of 23% and OS/DSS of 88%. In the 8 chondrosarcomas no relapses were reported and the OS/DSS were 100%. Among the patients without recurrence of the disease, a definitive decannulation was achieved in 21 cases (75%).

Conclusions

The GSL represents a valid alternative to total laryngectomy in selected cases of laryngeal cancer involving the glottic and subglottic regions.
Single‐crystal ordered macroporous metal‐organic framework as support for molecularly imprinted polymers and their integration in membrane formant for the specific recognition of zearalenone
Authors: Wang Yulin , Qiu Xiuzhen , Wang Fuyu , Li Yangyang , Guo Huishi , Nie Libo
Published: September 2021

Zearalenone is a fungal contaminant that is widely present in grains. Here, a novel molecularly imprinted membrane based on SOM‐ZIF‐8 was developed for the rapid and highly selective identification of zearalenone in grain samples. The molecularly imprinted membrane was prepared using polyvinylidene fluoride, cyclododecyl 2,4‐dihydroxybenzoate as a template and SOM‐ZIF‐8 as a carrier. The factors influencing the extraction of zearalenone using this membrane, including the solution pH, extraction time, elution solvent, elution time, and elution volume, were studied in detail. The optimized conditions were 5 mL of sample solution at pH 6, extraction time of 45 min, 4 mL of acetonitrile:methanol = 9:1 as elution solvent, and elution time of 20 min. This method displayed a good linear range of 12‐120 ng/g (R2 = 0.998) with the limits of detection and quantification of this method are 1.7 and 5.5 ng/g, respectively. In addition, the membrane was used to selectively identify zearalenone in grain samples with percent recoveries ranging from 87.9 to 101.0% and relative standard deviation of less than 6.6%. Overall, this study presents a simple and effective chromatographic pretreatment method for detecting zearalenone in food samples.
Knowledge quality and non‐financial performance—A Malaysian experience
Authors: Abdollahbeigi Bentolhoda , Salehi Farhang
Published: September 2021

This paper proposes a framework that investigates the impact of knowledge quality on innovation in Malaysian manufacturing firms. It explores the effect of innovation on non‐financial performance (learning and growth; internal processes) of Malaysian manufacturing companies. Three hundred eighty‐eight questionnaires were collected from middle and top engineers, managers, and technicians and were used to conduct the analyses. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is used for testing the developed hypotheses. The result of analyses confirmed the impact of determinants (absorptive capacity, functional diversity, and knowledge network) on knowledge quality. This study also confirmed that knowledge quality has a significant impact on innovation, while innovation has a significant effect on non‐financial performance. This paper also revealed that knowledge quality determinants have a significant influence on the non‐financial performance of manufacturing firms in Malaysia. The present study examined the relationship between these factors (related to internal and external knowledge), knowledge quality, innovation, and non‐financial performance (internal process and learning and growth) in the manufacturing companies of Malaysia.
Structure Stability, Flame Retardancy, and Antimicrobial Properties of Polyurethane Composite Nanofibers Containing Tannic Acid and Boron‐Doped Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Kim Young Nam , Jo Jun Young , Kim Yebom , Ha Yu‐Mi , Han Haksoo , Lee Doh C. , Kim Jaewoo , Jung Yong Chae
Published: September 2021

A polyurethane (PU) composite nanofiber with superior flame retardancy and antimicrobial property is developed through the simultaneous incorporation of boron‐doped carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and tannic acid (TA), resulting in excellent thermal, mechanical, and eco‐friendly flame‐retardant properties. The tensile strength and peak heat‐release rate of the composite nanofiber increase with increasing filler content, with the optimal performance (7.38 ± 1.04 MPa and 254 W g−1) being achieved at 3 wt% filler. Using a series of analytical techniques, it is demonstrated that the nanostructure of the neat PU completely collapses upon heating, transforming into a film‐like structure; in contrast, a higher loading of nanofiller leads to a higher heat‐shielding capability, thereby facilitating preservation of the composite nanofiber structure. Finally, the antibacterial activity is shown to increase as a result of the synergic effect of the boron‐doped CNTs and TA.
Coding and Noncoding Variation in LRRK2 and Parkinson's Disease Risk
Authors: Lake Julie , Reed Xylena , Langston Rebekah G. , Nalls Mike A. , Gan‐Or Ziv , Cookson Mark R. , Singleton Andrew B. , Blauwendraat Cornelis , Leonard Hampton L. ,   International Parkinson's Disease Genomics Consortium (IPDGC)
Published: September 2021

Background

The leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene harbors both rare highly damaging missense variants (eg, p.G2019S) and common noncoding variants (eg, rs76904798) with lower effect sizes that are associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) risk.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate in a large meta‐analysis whether the LRRK2 Genome‐Wide Association Study (GWAS) signal represented by rs76904798 is independently associated with PD risk from LRRK2 coding variation and whether complex linkage disequilibrium structures with p.G2019S and the 5′ noncoding haplotype account for the association of LRRK2 coding variants.

Methods

We performed a meta‐analysis using imputed genotypes from 17,838 patients, 13,404 proxy patients, and 173,639 healthy controls of European ancestry. We excluded carriers of p.G2019S and/or rs76904798 to clarify the role of LRRK2 coding variation in mediating disease risk and excluded carriers of relatively rare LRRK2 coding variants to assess the independence of rs76904798. We also investigated the co‐inheritance of LRRK2 coding variants with p.G2019S, rs76904798, and p.N2081D.

Results

LRRK2 rs76904798 remained significantly associated with PD after excluding the carriers of relatively rare LRRK2 coding variants. LRRK2 p.R1514Q and p.N2081D were frequently co‐inherited with rs76904798, and the allele distribution of p.S1647T significantly changed among patients after removing rs76904798 carriers.

Conclusions

These data suggest that the LRRK2 coding variants previously related to PD (p.N551K, p.R1398H, p.M1646T, and p.N2081D) do not drive the 5′ noncoding GWAS signal. These data, however, do not preclude the independent association of the haplotype p.N551K‐p.R1398H and p.M1646T with altered disease risk. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson Movement Disorder Society. This article has been contributed to by US Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Residual stress variation and deformation of shot peened glass fiber reinforced composites/aluminum–lithium laminates under thermal shock and thermal fatigue
Authors: Xiang Junxian , Li Huaguan , Wang Hao , Li Hongli , Chen Xi , Tao Jie
Published: September 2021

This paper aims to reveal the deformation mechanism of glass fiber reinforced composites (GFRP)/aluminum–lithium (Al–Li) laminates under thermal shock or fatigue and verify reliability of shot peen forming for the composites. In this study, residual stresses in laminate after shot peening was analyzed using finite element model, and the simulation results were verified by experiments. It was found that the shot peened laminates, compared with pure metal panel, similarly exhibited compressive stress at the two external metal surfaces and tensile stress in GFRP layer. The residual stresses changed discontinuously at the metal/fiber and 0°/90° fiber interface owing to the different modulus. Moreover, stresses generated during curing process significantly affected the final deformation after shot peening. Residual stresses altered in each layer with the increase of temperature from 0 to 100°C, which caused the arc height of the laminate decreased. However, the arc height increased to initial dimensions when the temperature dropped to 0°C. Thermal shock process was proved that it hardly influenced the sample geometry. The stress relaxation behaviors were found in long‐term thermal fatigue. 1100 cycles from −55 to 100°C, which lasted 4 h in every cycle, resulted in 5% decrease of the arc height. The deformation problem should be further concentrated on for components made of GFRP/Al–Li laminates and processed by shot peen forming technology.
A mechanistic insight into the biological activities of urolithins as gut microbial metabolites of ellagitannins
Authors: Hasheminezhad Seyyed Hossein , Boozari Motahareh , Iranshahi Mehrdad , Yazarlu Omid , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Hasanpour Maede , Iranshahy Milad
Published: September 2021

Urolithins are the gut metabolites produced from ellagitannin‐rich foods such as pomegranates, tea, walnuts, as well as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and cloudberries. Urolithins are of growing interest due to their various biological activities including cardiovascular protection, anti‐inflammatory activity, anticancer properties, antidiabetic activity, and antiaging properties. Several studies mostly based on in vitro and in vivo experiments have investigated the potential mechanisms of urolithins which support the beneficial effects of urolithins in the treatment of several diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, liver disease, cardiovascular disease, and various cancers. It is now obvious that urolithins can involve several cellular mechanisms including inhibition of MDM2‐p53 interaction, modulation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway, and suppressing nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐κB) activity. Antiaging activity is the most appealing and probably the most important property of urolithin A that has been investigated in depth in recent studies, owing to its unique effects on activation of mitophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis. A recent clinical trial showed that urolithin A is safe up to 2,500 mg/day and can improve mitochondrial biomarkers in elderly patients. Regarding the importance of mitochondria in the pathophysiology of many diseases, urolithins merit further research especially in clinical trials to unravel more aspects of their clinical significance. Besides the nutritional value of urolithins, recent studies proved that urolithins can be used as pharmacological agents to prevent or cure several diseases. Here, we comprehensively review the potential role of urolithins as new therapeutic agents with a special focus on the molecular pathways that have been involved in their biological effects. The pharmacokinetics of urolithins is also included.
A triple‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized clinical trial to evaluate the effect of curcumin‐containing nanomicelles on cellular immune responses subtypes and clinical outcome inCOVID‐19 patients
Authors: Hassaniazad Mehdi , Eftekhar Ebrahim , Inchehsablagh Behnaz Rahnama , Kamali Hossein , Tousi Abdolali , Jaafari Mahmoud Reza , Rafat Milad , Fathalipour Mohammad , Nikoofal‐Sahlabadi Sara , Gouklani Hamed , Alizade Hesam , Nikpoor Amin Reza
Published: September 2021

In COVID‐19 patients, cytokine storm due to excessive immune responses can cause severe complications. In this study, we investigated the effect of curcumin nanomicelles on clinical outcome and cellular immune responses subtypes changes in COVID‐19 patients. A randomized, triple‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study was done. Forty COVID‐19 patients were included into two groups of nano‐curcumin and placebo. The nano‐curcumin group received 40 mg of nano‐curcumin capsule, four times per day for 2 weeks. Clinical signs and gene expression of TBX21, GATA3, RORC and FOXP3 genes and IFN‐γ, IL‐4, IL‐17 and TGF‐β cytokines serum levels were measured at time points of 0, 7 and 14 days. Serum levels of IFN‐γ (p = .52) and IL‐17 (p = .11) decreased, while IL‐4 (p = .12) and TGF‐β (p = .14) increased in the nano‐curcumin group compared with placebo on day 14. Moreover, gene expressions of TBX21 (p = .02) and FOXP3 (p = .005) genes were significantly decreased and increased between nano‐curcumin and placebo groups on day 7, respectively. It can be concluded that administration of nano‐curcumin in inflammatory phase of COVID‐19 can accelerate recovering of the acute inflammatory phase by modulating inflammatory immune responses. Therefore, it is suggested that this supplement in inflammatory diseases, including COVID‐19, can be effective in controlling the inflammatory responses.
Characterization of equine liver microsome‐generated metabolites of growth hormone secretagogue small molecule ibutamoren
Authors: Philip Moses , Karakka Kal Abdul Khader , Subhahar Michael Benedict , Perwad Zubair , Karatt Tajudheen K.
Published: September 2021

Rationale

Interest in growth hormone secretagogues has intensified during the past several years based on capable, ever‐widening investigational applications of recombinant growth hormone in animals and humans. Ibutamoren is a potent, long‐acting, selective and orally active non‐peptide growth hormone secretagogue, which has a great potential for abuse as a performance‐enhancing agent in sports.

Methods

To support drug metabolism and pharmacokinetic studies of chiral pharmaceuticals, it is necessary to combine the resolving power of high‐performance liquid chromatography with the sensitivity of mass spectrometric techniques. This paper describes the metabolic conversion of ibutamoren using equine liver microsomes and metabolite characterization using a QExactive high‐resolution mass spectrometer.

Results

A total of 32 metabolites for ibutamoren (20 phase I and 12 phase II) were detected. The important findings of the current research are as follows: (1) the growth hormone secretagogue ibutamoren was prone to oxidation, resulting in corresponding hydroxylated metabolites; (2) in ibutamoren, the dissociation of the phenyl ring and 2‐amino‐2‐methylpropanamide side chain was also observed; (3) the glucuronic acid conjugates of mono‐, di‐ and trihydroxylated analogues were detected; and (4) no sulfonic acid conjugated metabolites were observed in this study of ibutamoren.

Conclusions

The reported data help in the speedy detection of the growth hormone secretagogue ibutamoren and reveal its illegal use in competitive sports.
A critical appraisal of individual social capital in crisis response
Authors: Morsut Claudia , Kuran Christian , Kruke Bjørn Ivar , Nævestad Tor‐Olav , Orru Kati , Hansson Sten
Published: September 2021

While there is still a vast body of scholarly research in crisis and disaster management that considers social capital an asset for lessening negative impacts from crises, this paper investigates an underexplored aspect of social capital—its microlevel positive and negative instances in the crisis response—a quite neglected phase of the crisis management cycle when it comes to studying the role of social capital. To underline social capital's double‐edged aspects, this paper draws from the handful of studies that focus on individual social capital in crisis response, to systematize their findings according to bonding, bridging, and linking social capital and positive and negative impacts. In addition, the paper considers these findings to analyze the 2011 Utøya terrorist attack in Norway, to uncover new positive and negative effects of individual social capital, thus contributing to pushing the research agenda toward a more critical appraisal of individual social capital.
A systematic review on global RSV genetic data: Identification of knowledge gaps
Authors: Langedijk Annefleur C. , Harding Eline R. , Konya Burak , Vrancken Bram , Lebbink Robert Jan , Evers Anouk , Willemsen Joukje , Lemey Philippe , Bont Louis J.
Published: September 2021

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major health problem. A better understanding of the geographical and temporal dynamics of RSV circulation will assist in tracking resistance against therapeutics currently under development. Since 2015, the field of RSV molecular epidemiology has evolved rapidly with around 20–30 published articles per year. The objective of this systematic review is to identify knowledge gaps in recent RSV genetic literature to guide global molecular epidemiology research. We included 78 studies published between 2015 and 2020 describing 12,998 RSV sequences of which 8,233 (63%) have been uploaded to GenBank. Seventeen (22%) studies were performed in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), and seven (9%) studies sequenced whole‐genomes. Although most reported polymorphisms for monoclonal antibodies in clinical development (nirsevimab, MK‐1654) have not been tested for resistance in neutralisation essays, known resistance was detected at low levels for the nirsevimab and palivizumab binding site. High resistance was found for the suptavumab binding site. We present the first literature review of an enormous amount of RSV genetic data. The need for global monitoring of RSV molecular epidemiology becomes increasingly important in evaluating the effectiveness of monoclonal antibody candidates as they reach their final stages of clinical development. We have identified the following three knowledge gaps: whole‐genome data to study global RSV evolution, data from LMICs and data from global surveillance programs.
Neural Stem Cell Treatment for Perinatal Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Preclinical Studies
Authors: Smith Madeleine J. , Paton Madison Claire Badawy , Fahey Michael C. , Jenkin Graham , Miller Suzanne L. , Finch-Edmondson Megan , McDonald Courtney A.
Published: September 2021

Perinatal brain injury can lead to significant neurological and cognitive deficits and currently no therapies can regenerate the damaged brain. Neural stem cells (NSCs) have the potential to engraft and regenerate damaged brain tissue. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the preclinical literature to determine whether NSC administration is more effective than controls in decreasing perinatal brain injury. Controlled interventional studies of NSC therapy using animal models of perinatal brain injury were identified using MEDLINE and Embase. Primary outcomes were brain infarct size, motor, and cognitive function. Data for meta-analysis were synthesized and expressed as standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), using a random effects model. We also reported secondary outcomes including NSC survival, migration, differentiation, and effect on neuroinflammation. Eighteen studies met inclusion criteria. NSC administration decreased infarct size (SMD 1.09; CI: 0.44, 1.74, P = .001; I2 = 74%) improved motor function measured via the impaired forelimb preference test (SMD 2.27; CI: 0.85, 3.69, P = .002; I2 = 86%) and the rotarod test (SMD 1.88; CI: 0.09, 3.67, P = .04; I2 = 95%). Additionally, NSCs improved cognitive function measured via the Morris water maze test (SMD of 2.41; CI: 1.16, 3.66, P = .0002; I2 = 81%). Preclinical evidence suggests that NSC therapy is promising for the treatment of perinatal brain injury. We have identified key knowledge gaps, including the lack of large animal studies and uncertainty regarding the necessity of immunosuppression for NSC transplantation in neonates. These knowledge gaps should be addressed before NSC treatment can effectively progress to clinical trial.
Gene‐gene interaction analysis incorporating network information via a structured Bayesian approach
Authors: Qin Xing , Ma Shuangge , Wu Mengyun
Published: September 2021

Increasing evidence has shown that gene‐gene interactions have important effects in biological processes of human diseases. Due to the high dimensionality of genetic measurements, interaction analysis usually suffers from a lack of sufficient information and has unsatisfactory results. Biological network information has been massively accumulated, allowing researchers to identify biomarkers while taking a system perspective, conducting network selection (of functionally related biomarkers), and accommodating network structures. In main‐effect‐only analysis, network information has been incorporated. However, effort has been limited in interaction analysis. Recently, link networks that describe the relationships between genetic interactions have been demonstrated as effective for revealing multiscale hierarchical organizations in networks and providing interesting findings beyond node networks. In this study, we develop a novel structured Bayesian interaction analysis approach to effectively incorporate network information. This study is among the first to identify gene‐gene interactions with the assistance of network selection, while simultaneously accommodating the underlying network structures of both main effects and interactions. It innovatively respects multiple hierarchies among main effects, interactions, and networks. The Bayesian technique is adopted, which may be more informative for estimation and prediction over some other techniques. An efficient variational Bayesian expectation‐maximization algorithm is developed to explore the posterior distribution. Extensive simulation studies demonstrate the practical superiority of the proposed approach. The analysis of TCGA data on melanoma and lung cancer leads to biologically sensible findings with satisfactory prediction accuracy and selection stability.
Spalling‐Induced Liftoff and Transfer of Electronic Films Using a van der Waals Release Layer
Authors: Blanton Eric W. , Motala Michael J. , Prusnick Timothy A. , Hilton Albert , Brown Jeff L. , Bhattacharyya Arkka , Krishnamoorthy Sriram , Leedy Kevin , Glavin Nicholas R. , Snure Michael
Published: September 2021

Heterogeneous integration strategies are increasingly being employed to achieve more compact and capable electronics systems for multiple applications including space, electric vehicles, and wearable and medical devices. To enable new integration strategies, the growth and transfer of thin electronic films and devices, including III‐nitrides, metal oxides, and 2D materials, using 2D boron nitride (BN)‐on‐sapphire templates are demonstrated. The van der Waals (vdW) BN layer, in this case, acts as a preferred mechanical release layer for precise separation at the substrate–film interface and leaves a smooth surface suitable for vdW bonding. A tensilely stressed Ni layer sputtered on top of the film induces controlled spalling fracture that propagates at the BN/sapphire interface. By incorporating controlled spalling, the process yield and sensitivity are greatly improved, owed to the greater fracture energy provided by the stressed metal layer relative to a soft tape or rubber stamp. With stress playing a critical role in this process, the influence of residual stress on detrimental cracking and bowing is investigated. Additionally, a back‐end selected area lift‐off technique is developed which allows for isolation and transfer of individual devices or arbitrary shapes.
Boron‐Mediated Grain Boundary Engineering Enables Simultaneous Improvement of Thermoelectric and Mechanical Properties in N‐Type Bi2Te3
Authors: Zhang Chaohua , Geng Xingjin , Chen Bin , Li Junqin , Meledin Alexander , Hu Lipeng , Liu Fusheng , Shi Jigui , Mayer Joachim , Wuttig Matthias , Cojocaru‐Mirédin Oana , Yu Yuan
Published: September 2021

Powder metallurgy introduces small structures of high‐density grain boundaries into Bi2Te3‐based alloys, which promises to enhance their mechanical and thermoelectric performance. However, due to the strong donor‐like effect induced by the increased surface, Te vacancies form in the powder‐metallurgy process. Hence, the as‐sintered n‐type Bi2Te3‐based alloys show a lower figure of merit (ZT) value than their p‐type counterparts and the commercial zone‐melted (ZM) ingots. Here, boron is added to one‐step‐sintered n‐type Bi2Te3‐based alloys to inhibit grain growth and to suppress the donor‐like effect, simultaneously improving the mechanical and thermoelectric (TE) performance. Due to the alleviated donor‐like effect and the carrier mobility maintained in our n‐type Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 alloys upon the addition of boron, the maximum and average ZT values within 298–473 K can be enhanced to 1.03 and 0.91, respectively, which are even slightly higher than that of n‐type ZM ingots. Moreover, the addition of boron greatly improves the mechanical strength such as Vickers hardness and compressive strength due to the synergetic effects of Hall‐Petch grain‐boundary strengthening and boron dispersion strengthening. This facile and cost‐effective grain boundary engineering by adding boron facilitates the practical application of Bi2Te3‐based alloys and can also be popularized in other thermoelectric materials.
An extensive review of data security infrastructure and legislature
Authors: Bhavnani Harshit , Bardia Shreyansh , Modi Aniket , Shah Ujwal
Published: September 2021

The last few decades have witnessed technology progress with leaps and bounds leading to the creation and global adoption of different types of digital devices and platforms that can make personalized recommendations to an individual. One of the consequences of the ubiquity of these devices is the daily generation of data in large quantities. This data includes the sensitive data of an individual as well as multinational organizations and therefore, it must be always kept confidential to prevent its theft and misuse by malicious parties. However, the large volumes of data generated make it difficult to create a robust security solution to safeguard the data from different types of cyberattacks. The paper contributes to the data security industry by consolidating numerous data security algorithms that change with the infrastructure that the data is amid and also outlines the regulations surrounding it. This review paper also aims to highlight the benefits and drawbacks of the security algorithms proposed by researchers to encourage further discussion and consideration of the algorithms for their potential implementation in appropriate domains and also inspire them to develop more powerful and robust security algorithms to cover the drawbacks of the existing ones.
Multivariate tests for the multi‐sample location problem based on depth function
Authors: Dehghan Sakineh , Faridrohani Mohammad Reza
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a class of affine‐invariant tests is presented for the multi‐sample multivariate location problem. In the procedure to derive the asymptotic distribution of the tests under the null hypothesis, we do not require any symmetric assumption of the distribution functions. The asymptotic relative efficiency of the tests is discussed under the class of elliptically symmetric distributions. Further comparisons are made among several statistics using Monte Carlo results. Asymptotic relative efficiencies along with Monte Carlo results indicate that selected members of the proposed class perform very well for a broad class of distributions. Finally, we apply our proposed tests to Egyptian skulls data for multivariate five different periods comparisons.
Effectiveness of goreisan–jiinkokato combination for an elderly patient with heart failure: A case report
Authors: Katayose Dai
Published: September 2021

Case

The patient was a 93‐year‐old female with a clinical diagnosis of congestive heart failure. Drainage was performed by standard treatment, but pleural effusion and congestive heart failure persisted. In addition, intravascular dehydration occurred. Drainage with standard treatment was considered difficult; hence, goreisan and jiinkokato administration was initiated.

Outcome

A decrease in pleural effusion, extracellular water/total body water ratio (63.3% versus 60.8%), and serum B‐type natriuretic peptide level (231.1 versus 194.7 pg/mL) was noted after goreisan and jiinkokato administration. Moreover, serum sodium level and osmolality decreased from 151 to 132 mEq/L and 333 to 288 mOsm/L, respectively. Similarly, body temperature decreased considerably. Conversely, body weight increased from 40.9 to 45.8 kg. Based on the abovementioned facts, we believe that congestive heart failure and intravascular dehydration may have been alleviated, thereby correcting the uneven fluid distribution.

Conclusions

Goreisan–jiinkokato combination therapy may be effective for the treatment of elderly patients with heart failure.
Optimizing the setup of multienvironmental hybrid wheat yield trials for boosting the selection capability
Authors: Lell Moritz , Reif Jochen , Zhao Yusheng
Published: September 2021

The accuracy of genomic prediction increases with increasing heritability, and thus the challenge of optimizing the design of multienvironment yield trials under a limited budget arises. With this in mind, we aimed to find the best of several options to sparsely distribute a fixed number of plots across different environments to increase the accuracy of hybrid performance prediction. We used a comprehensive published genomic and phenotypic data set of 1,604 winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) hybrids and compared several commonly used biometric models for phenotypic data analysis in a resampling study to identify the one that most accurately estimated the hybrid performance in different imbalanced trials. Our results showed that when using information about genotypic relationships, genotypic values were more strongly associated with the reference values than when this information was ignored. In addition, a balanced environmental sampling resulted in an adequate characterization of each environment and increased the accuracy for estimating the hybrid performance. One promising design involved dividing the genotypes into equally sized subgroups that were tested in a subset of environments, with the constraint that the subgroups overlapped with respect to the environments. This scenario appears to be particularly appropriate, as it provided both high accuracies in the estimates of genotypic values and had low variability resulting from the data sample used. Thus, we were able to clearly demonstrate the utility for optimizing the design of multienvironment hybrid wheat yield trials in times of genomic selection.
Pseudo matrix‐matched standards for the determination of iron in ferrocene and its derivatives by energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry
Authors: Yerroju Sunitha , Shanmugam Thangavel , Rastogi Lori , Neela Kishore Babu , Telugu Yedukondalu , Kumar Sanjiv
Published: September 2021

A method for the determination of Fe in ferrocene or its derivatives dissolved in n‐butyl acetate by energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry is described. It utilises, driven by the lack of suitable matrix‐matched standards, pseudo standards of Fe in n‐butyl acetate for quantification. These are derived theoretically from synthetic aqueous Fe standards by invoking the concepts of thick target XRF. The normalisation of the mass attenuation coefficients of the exciting radiation (i.e., Mo K X‐rays) and the emitted radiation (i.e., Fe Kα X‐rays) lies at the crux of the transformation of the true aqueous standards into pseudo non‐aqueous standards. The method is simple and provides results with good statistical attributes. The veracity of the method is established by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry wherein the measurements were performed on microwave digested samples. The method is adaptable to any other solvent and can also be extended to other organometallic compounds such as manganocene or cobaltocene.
Glue-and-cut at five loops
Authors: Georgoudis Alessandro , Goncalves Vasco , Panzer Erik , Pereira Raul , Smirnov Alexander V. , Smirnov Vladimir A.
Published: September 2021

Abstract

We compute ε-expansions around 4 dimensions of a complete set of master integrals for momentum space five-loop massless propagator integrals in dimensional regularization, up to and including the first order with contributions of transcendental weight nine. Our method is the glue-and-cut technique from Baikov and Chetyrkin, which proves extremely effective in that it determines all expansion coefficients to this order in terms of recursively one-loop integrals and only one further integral. We observe that our results are compatible with conjectures that predict π-dependent contributions.
Kalb-Ramond backgrounds in α′-complete cosmology
Authors: Bernardo Heliudson , Chouha Paul-Robert , Franzmann Guilherme
Published: September 2021

Abstract

We study the matter-coupled equations of motion for cosmological NS massless fields including all α′ corrections in an O(d, d) duality invariant approach, with emphasis on the Kalb-Ramond two-form field B(2) and its source. Solutions for the vacuum and matter cases are found and the corresponding Einstein frame cosmologies are discussed. We also show that the ansatz for B(2) required by the duality invariant framework implies that the two-form is non-isotropic.
On quantum deformations of AdS3 × S3 × T4 and mirror duality
Authors: Seibold Fiona K. , van Tongeren Stijn J. , Zimmermann Yannik
Published: September 2021

Abstract

We consider various integrable two-parameter deformations of the AdS3 × S3 × T4 superstring with quantum group symmetry. Working on the string worldsheet in light-cone gauge and to quadratic order in fermions, we obtain their common massive tree-level two-body S matrix, which matches the expansion of the conjectured exact q-deformed S matrix. We then analyze the behavior of the exact S matrix under mirror transformation — a double Wick rotation on the worldsheet — and find that it satisfies a mirror duality relation analogous to the distinguished q-deformed AdS5 × S5 S matrix in the one parameter deformation limit. Finally, we show that the fermionic q-deformed AdS5 × S5 S matrix also satisfies such a relation.
Nutrition induced direct fitness for workers in a primitively eusocial wasp
Authors: Krishnan J. U. , Brahma A. , Chavan S. K. , Gadagkar R.
Published: September 2021

Eusocial insects are characterised by a reproductive caste differentiation such that egg-laying is restricted to a small number of queens. The majority of the colony members function as non-reproducing workers and gain indirect fitness by rearing the offspring of the reproductives. In primitively eusocial species, some workers can also get direct fitness by sneaking in some eggs in the presence of the queens, replacing the queens and becoming new queens, or initiating new nests. Here we aimed to understand the factors that permit some workers to gain direct fitness and alter the number of workers doing so, using the primitively eusocial waspRopalidia marginata. We transplanted 12 naturally occurring colonies into large laboratory cages where there was adequate space for the workers to leave their natal nests and initiate new colonies. We compared six control colonies that we provided with ad libitum food placed near the nest to six test colonies in which we hand-fed the wasps in addition to the ad libitum food. Wasps in test colonies consumed more food, showed more aggression, replaced their queens, and initiated new nests significantly more often than those in control colonies. When considering all 12 colonies, the rates of queen replacement and nest foundation were significantly positively correlated with food consumption rates. The additional nutrition gained by hand-fed wasps appears to help workers in test colonies to develop their ovaries and lay eggs, implying that they are nutritionally castrated in control colonies.
Numerical approximation of boundary value problems for curvature flow and elastic flow in Riemannian manifolds
Authors: Garcke Harald , Nürnberg Robert
Published: September 2021

We present variational approximations of boundary value problems for curvature flow (curve shortening flow) and elastic flow (curve straightening flow) in two-dimensional Riemannian manifolds that are conformally flat. For the evolving open curves we propose natural boundary conditions that respect the appropriate gradient flow structure. Based on suitable weak formulations we introduce finite element approximations using piecewise linear elements. For some of the schemes a stability result can be shown. The derived schemes can be employed in very different contexts. For example, we apply the schemes to the Angenent metric in order to numerically compute rotationally symmetric self-shrinkers for the mean curvature flow. Furthermore, we utilise the schemes to compute geodesics that are relevant for optimal interface profiles in multi-component phase field models.
Measurements and modelling of the residual mass upon impact of supercooled liquid drops
Authors: Gloerfeld Mark , Roisman Ilia V. , Hussong Jeanette , Tropea Cameron
Published: September 2021

The mass of liquid remaining on a substrate following a drop impact is a crucial quantity for modelling of numerous phenomena, e.g. spray cooling, spray coating or aircraft icing. In the present study, a method to measure this residual mass after impact of liquid drops is introduced. This method is also applicable to supercooled drops, which may freeze upon impact on cold surfaces. Using the data obtained from extensive measurements in which the size, impact speed and temperature of the drops was varied, a modelling of the residual mass is formulated, following closely the theory of Riboux and Gordillo (Phys Rev Lett 113(2):024507, 2014.10.1103/PhysRevLett.113.024507). A key adaptation of this model accounts for the deformation of drops immediately prior to impact. This modified theoretical model results in very good agreement with experiments, allowing prediction of residual mass for a given impact situation.

Graphical abstract
Temperature and precipitation seasonal forecasts over the Mediterranean region: added value compared to simple forecasting methods
Authors: Calì Quaglia Filippo , Terzago Silvia , von Hardenberg Jost
Published: September 2021

This study considers a set of state-of-the-art seasonal forecasting systems (ECMWF, MF, UKMO, CMCC, DWD and the corresponding multi-model ensemble) and quantifies their added value (if any) in predicting seasonal and monthly temperature and precipitation anomalies over the Mediterranean region compared to a simple forecasting method based on the ERA5 climatology (CTRL) or the persistence of the ERA5 anomaly (PERS). This analysis considers two starting dates, May 1st and November 1st and the forecasts at lead times up to 6 months for each year in the period 1993–2014. Both deterministic and probabilistic metrics are employed to derive comprehensive information on the forecast quality in terms of association, reliability/resolution, discrimination, accuracy and sharpness. We find that temperature anomalies are better reproduced than precipitation anomalies with varying spatial patterns across different forecast systems. The Multi-Model Ensemble (MME) shows the best agreement in terms of anomaly correlation with ERA5 precipitation, while PERS provides the best results in terms of anomaly correlation with ERA5 temperature. Individual forecast systems and MME outperform CTRL in terms of accuracy of tercile-based forecasts up to lead time 5 months and in terms of discrimination up to lead time 2 months. All seasonal forecast systems also outperform elementary forecasts based on persistence in terms of accuracy and sharpness.
Peripartal pain perception and pain therapy: introduction and validation of a questionnaire as a quality instrument
Authors: Linzbach A. , Nitschke D. , Rothaug J. , Komann M. , Weinmann C. , Schleußner E. , Meißner W. , Jimenez Cruz J. , Schneider U.
Published: September 2021

Background

Labor pain is difficult to measure. The aim of this proof-of-concept study is to implement and test a questionnaire assessing pain sensation during and after vaginal deliveries. Its key aspect is a highly standardized survey of patient-reported outcome (PRO) by staff not involved in routine care.

Methods

Between January and November 2015 339 women were assessed 24–48 h after spontaneous or operative-vaginal delivery of a singleton. German language skills were a prerequisite to participate. The test–retest reliability was calculated in 38 women 24–36 and 48–72 h postpartum between July and October 2017. Primiparae after spontaneous delivery and multiparae with no history of operative deliveries were compared in a subgroup analysis.

Results

Maximum labor pain and post-partum pain were reported a median of 9 [8–10] and 4 [3–6]. Higher ratings were associated with younger age, higher gestational ages, infant’s biometrics, and the duration of laboring.

Only regional analgesia tended to reduce pain perception (NRS 8 vs. 9). Higher-degree injuries were associated with less pain postpartum. The questionnaire proved to be reliable in most aspects (Cronbach's α > 0.6 for 19/21 questions) and showed an acceptable content and criterion validity (Cohen correlation >  ± 0.3, interrelation between items).

Conclusion

Labor is a very painful experience, irrespective of previous obstetric history. Ratings indicate inadequateness of treatment except for patients receiving preventive postoperative pain management. Systematic postpartum pain assessment, hence, is still a pending issue. Adjustments will be made concerning language skills and specific questions on effectiveness of analgesia otherwise good reliability and validity of the questionnaire were proven.
Determination of phase relations of the olivine–ahrensite transition in the Mg2SiO4–Fe2SiO4 system at 1740 K using modern multi-anvil techniques
Authors: Chanyshev Artem , Bondar Dmitry , Fei Hongzhan , Purevjav Narangoo , Ishii Takayuki , Nishida Keisuke , Bhat Shrikant , Farla Robert , Katsura Tomoo
Published: September 2021

The phase relations of iron-rich olivine and its high-pressure polymorphs are important for planetary science and meteoritics because these minerals are the main constituents of terrestrial mantles and meteorites. The olivine–ahrensite binary loop was previously determined by thermochemical calculations in combination with high-pressure experiments; however, the transition pressures contained significant uncertainties. Here we determined the binary loop of the olivine–ahrensite transition in the (Mg,Fe)2SiO4 system at 1740 K in the pressure range of 7.5–11.2 GPa using a multi-anvil apparatus with the pressure determined using in situ X-ray diffraction, compositional analysis of quenched run products, and thermochemical calculation. Based on the determined binary loop, a user-friendly software was developed to calculate pressure from the coexisting olivine and ahrensite compositions. The software is used to estimate the shock conditions of several L6-type chondrites. The obtained olivine–ahrensite phase relations can also be applied for precise in-house multi-anvil pressure calibration at high temperatures.
Gadoxetic acid uptake as a molecular imaging biomarker for sorafenib resistance in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: a post hoc analysis of the SORAMIC trial
Authors: Öcal Osman , Rössler Daniel , Gasbarrini Antonio , Berg Thomas , Klümpen Heinz-Josef , Bargellini Irene , Peynircioglu Bora , van Delden Otto , Schulz Christian , Schütte Kerstin , Iezzi Roberto , Pech Maciej , Malfertheiner Peter , Sangro Bruno , Ricke Jens , Seidensticker Max
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Gadoxetic acid uptake on hepatobiliary phase MRI has been shown to correlate with ß-catenin mutation in patients with HCC, which is associated with resistance to certain therapies. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of gadoxetic acid uptake on hepatobiliary phase MRI in patients with advanced HCC receiving sorafenib.

Methods

312 patients with available baseline hepatobiliary phase MRI images received sorafenib alone or following selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) within SORAMIC trial. The signal intensity of index tumor and normal liver parenchyma were measured on the native and hepatobiliary phase MRI images, and relative tumor enhancement higher than relative liver enhancement were accepted as high gadoxetic acid uptake, and its prognostic value was assessed using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

The median OS of the study population was 13.4 (11.8–14.5) months. High gadoxetic acid uptake was seen in 51 (16.3%) patients, and none of the baseline characteristics was associated with high uptake.

In univariate analysis, high gadoxetic acid uptake was significantly associated with shorter overall survival (10.7 vs. 14.0 months, p = 0.005). Multivariate analysis confirmed independent prognostic value of high gadoxetic acid uptake (HR, 1.7 [1.21–2.3], p = 0.002), as well as Child–Pugh class (p = 0.033), tumor diameter (p = 0.002), and ALBI grade (p = 0.015).

Conclusion

In advanced HCC patients receiving sorafenib (alone or combined with SIRT), high gadoxetic acid uptake of the tumor on pretreatment MRI, a surrogate of ß-catenin mutation, correlates with shorter survival. Gadoxetic acid uptake status might serve in treatment decision-making process.