bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primatology in zoos: Studying behavior, cognition, and welfare
Authors: Hopper Lydia M.
Published: April 2022

Primatological research in zoos is increasing globally. Such research allows scientists to study primate biology, behavior, and cognition while helping to advance the welfare of captive primates. Moreover, zoos welcome millions of visitors annually, which creates unique opportunities for public engagement with this research. Reflecting the importance of zoos in the field of primatology, the articles in this special issue showcase the range of primatological research currently being conducted in zoos around the world. With this special issue, I have chosen to focus on research examining primate behavior and cognition, addressing both basic and applied questions. The articles included in this special issue also highlight the array of technologies and methods being used to study zoo‐housed primates. While zoos house a variety of primate species, potentially enabling the testing of under‐studied species or widescale comparative research, great apes are disproportionately represented in current zoo‐based research. Thus, while an interest in conducting research with primates in zoos continues to grow, there are still opportunities to increase the breadth and diversity of this study.
Dementia risk predictions from German claims data using methods of machine learning
Authors: Reinke Constantin , Doblhammer Gabriele , Schmid Matthias , Welchowski Thomas
Published: April 2022

Introduction

We examined whether German claims data are suitable for dementia risk prediction, how machine learning (ML) compares to classical regression, and what the important predictors for dementia risk are.

Methods

We analyzed data from the largest German health insurance company, including 117,895 dementia‐free people age 65+. Follow‐up was 10 years. Predictors were: 23 age‐related diseases, 212 medical prescriptions, 87 surgery codes, as well as age and sex. Statistical methods included logistic regression (LR), gradient boosting (GBM), and random forests (RFs).

Results

Discriminatory power was moderate for LR (C‐statistic = 0.714; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.708–0.720) and GBM (C‐statistic = 0.707; 95% CI  = 0.700–0.713) and lower for RF (C‐statistic = 0.636; 95% CI  = 0.628–0.643). GBM had the best model calibration. We identified antipsychotic medications and cerebrovascular disease but also a less‐established specific antibacterial medical prescription as important predictors.

Discussion

Our models from German claims data have acceptable accuracy and may provide cost‐effective decision support for early dementia screening.
Saffron extract attenuates Sofosbuvir‐induced retinal neurodegeneration in albino rat
Authors: Elseady Walaa S. , Keshk Walaa A. , Negm Walaa A. , Elkhalawany Walaa , Elhanafy Hend , Ibrahim Marwa A.A. , Radwan Doaa A.
Published: April 2022

Sofosbuvir is a novel drug candidate for the treatment of hepatitis C viral infection; however, vision loss is one of its growing adverse effects. Saffron is a natural biomolecule with a high antioxidant potential that has been efficiently used in some diseases caused by oxidative stress. This study evaluated Sofosbuvir's neurodegenerative effect on the retina of albino rat and examined the potential protective role of saffron aqueous extract. Twenty‐one adult male albino rats were randomly divided into three groups: Control, Sofosbuvir‐treated (41.1 mg/kg /day for 6 weeks), and Sofosbuvir + Saffron co‐treated groups. Retinal specimens were biochemically analyzed for malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) levels. In addition, light and transmission electron microscopic examination, as well as immunohistochemical staining for Caspase‐3, COX‐2, and GFAP were performed. Sofosbuvir treatment caused a significant increase in retinal MDA, IL‐6, and TNF‐α levels coupling with a significant decrease in retinal total antioxidant capacity level. Histopathological findings revealed disturbed retinal architecture, detached pigment epithelium, vacuolated photoreceptors, in addition to a significant decrease in the thicknesses of both outer and inner nuclear layers, and the number of ganglionic cells. Ultrastructural examination revealed extensive degenerative changes in all retinal layers. Caspase‐3, COX‐2, and GFAP immunohistochemical expressions were significantly increased. Meanwhile, concomitant treatment with Saffron significantly improved retinal redox status, inflammation, histological, and ultrastructural parameters. Saffron may protect the retina from the hazardous effects of Sofosbuvir. Saffron could be used as an adjuvant therapy to protect patients receiving Sofosbuvir from retinal damage.
Photo‐Controlled [4+4] Cycloaddition of Anthryl‐Polymer Systems: A Versatile Approach to Fabricate Functional Materials
Authors: Paderes Monissa C. , Jeffrey Diaz Mark , Pagtalunan Cris Angelo , Bruzon Dwight Angelo , Tapang Giovanni A.
Published: April 2022

The reversible photo‐induced [4+4] cycloaddition reaction of anthracene enables multiple cycles of dimerization and scission, allowing phototunable linkage of molecular fragments for the synthesis of polymer scaffolds. New functional materials ranging from hydrogels to shape‐memory polymers were designed from anthryl‐polymer systems because of their diverse photochemical reactivity and responsiveness. Light as an external stimulus allows for the remote and precise spatiotemporal control of materials without the need for additional reagents. Depending on how the photoreactive anthracene moieties were introduced, the interaction of anthryl‐polymer systems with light results in various processes such as polymerization, cyclization, and cross‐linking. Structural modifications of anthracene derivatives could shift their absorption from the ultraviolet to the visible light region, widening their range of applications including biologically relevant studies. These applications are further diversified and enhanced by the reversibility of the dimerization reaction using light and heat as stimuli. In this review, current developments in the synthesis and photodimerization of anthracene‐containing polymers and their emerging applications in the fabrication of new materials are discussed.
A homogeneous domination control method based on sampled‐data output feedback for lateral stability of an intelligent electric vehicle
Authors: Meng Qinghua , Sun Zong‐Yao , Chen Chih‐Chiang
Published: April 2022

For easy analysis, most vehicle lateral stability control methods are usually based on a linear 2 degree‐of‐freedom (DOF) dynamic model in the published literature. Generally speaking, the linear 2DOF model cannot fully reflect the physical nonlinearity of the tire characteristics. The intelligent electric vehicle driven by four in‐wheel motors (IEV‐DFIM) requires a more accurate nonlinear tire model. Therefore, this paper presents a nonlinear 2DOF dynamic model for the IEV‐DFIM based on the well‐known magic formula. But the nonlinear model might cause the system to be uncontrollable around the origin. To address this issue, a novel homogeneous domination control method based on sampled‐data output feedback is proposed, which is capable of guaranteeing the lateral stability of the IEV‐DFIM under different operation conditions. A Lyapunov‐based analysis is performed to ensure the validity of the proposed method in theory. The simulation and test are also carried out to verify the effectiveness of the designed controller.
Can aggressive cancers be identified by the “aggressiveness” of their chromatin?
Authors: Gurova Katerina
Published: April 2022

Phenotypic plasticity is a crucial feature of aggressive cancer, providing the means for cancer progression. Stochastic changes in tumor cell transcriptional programs increase the chances of survival under any condition. I hypothesize that unstable chromatin permits stochastic transitions between transcriptional programs in aggressive cancers and supports non‐genetic heterogeneity of tumor cells as a basis for their adaptability. I present a mechanistic model for unstable chromatin which includes destabilized nucleosomes, mobile chromatin fibers and random enhancer‐promoter contacts, resulting in stochastic transcription. I suggest potential markers for “unsettled” chromatin in tumors associated with poor prognosis. Although many of the characteristics of unstable chromatin have been described, they were mostly used to explain changes in the transcription of individual genes. I discuss approaches to evaluate the role of unstable chromatin in non‐genetic tumor cell heterogeneity and suggest using the degree of chromatin instability and transcriptional noise in tumor cells to predict cancer aggressiveness.
The understanding of Parkinson's disease through genetics and new therapies
Authors: Uwishema Olivier , Onyeaka Helen , Badri Rawa , Yücel Ayşe Nazlı , Korkusuz Ahmet Kayhan , Ajagbe Abayomi Oyeyemi , Abuleil Amro , Chaaya Céline , Alhendawi Baraa H. M. , Chalhoub Elie
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Parkinson's disease is one of the progressive neurodegenerative diseases from which people suffer for years. The mechanism of this disease is associated with a decrease in the number of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) while Lewy bodies are still present. As a result, both motor—ridity, tremor, and bradykinesia—and non‐motor symptoms such as anxiety and depression. Nowadays, it is well known that the cause behind Parkinson's disease is mainly environmental changes, genetic susceptibility, and toxins. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the disease but treatments. The replacement of lost neurons, α‐synuclein and apomorphine, is currently being studied for new therapies. This article focuses on history, mechanism, factors causing Parkinson's disease as well as future therapies for the cure of the diseases.

Methodology

Data were collected from medical journals published on PubMed, The Lancet, Cells, and Nature Reviews Neurology databases with a predefined search strategy. All articles considering new therapies for Parkinson's disease were considered.

Results

The pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease is currently reasonably understood. However, there is no definitive cure so all the treatments focus mainly on reducing or limiting the symptoms. Current treatment studies focus on genetics, replacing lost neurons, α‐synuclein and apomorphine.

Conclusion

Parkinson's disease is the most common movement disorder worldwide because of the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. Its symptoms include motor dysfunctions such as rigidity, tremor, and bradykinesia and non‐motor dysfunctions such as anxiety and depression. Through genetics, environmental changes and toxins analysis, it is now known that future new therapies are working on replacing lost neurons, α‐synuclein and apomorphine.
Conceptualisations of incumbent firms in sustainability transitions: Insights from organisation theory and a systematic literature review
Authors: Magnusson Thomas , Werner Viktor
Published: April 2022

Following the tradition of using opposing concepts as a basis for organisational analysis, this article advances a theory‐based understanding of incumbent firms in sustainability transitions. Building on seminal transition studies, we propose innovating/defending and collaborating/competing as two useful spectra to describe organisational behaviours in transitions. Presenting the automotive industry as an explanatory case, we show results from a systematic literature review that reveal motives for diverging behaviours. Combining the spectra into a 2 × 2 matrix, we then introduce four conceptualisations to explain the observed motives and behaviours. The conceptualisations are associated with different streams of organisation theory: dynamic capabilities and the resource‐based view, resource‐dependence theory, neo‐institutional theory and theories on organisational learning and path dependence. Referring to organisational ambidexterity, value configurations and political arenas, we conclude that transitions research can reach a more multifaceted understanding by challenging the prevailing notion of the firm as a coherent actor.
Development and assessment of an integrated anatomy mobile app
Authors: Harmon Derek J. , Burgoon Jennifer M. , Kalmar Eileen L.
Published: April 2022

Curricular hours for anatomical sub‐disciplines (gross anatomy, embryology, histology, and neuroanatomy) continue to decline, while medical schools are simultaneously transitioning to systems‐based, vertically integrated curricula. This requires students to learn and integrate all basic science content for a learning block prior to the summative assessment. Currently, no educational technology resource exists that integrates the four anatomical sub‐disciplines into a single resource to supplement integrated curricula. The objective of this study was to assess a novel integrated anatomical sciences mobile app for medical students. The 4natomy mobile app was developed to integrate the four sub‐disciplines for a single topic, the spinal cord. The app was distributed to first‐year medical students during the neurological disorders learning. Following the learning block, assessment of the student acceptance and experience with the app was conducted through a technology acceptance model (TAM) framework survey. The results indicated that students found the app to be useful (p < 0.001) and easy to use (p < 0.05), predicting continued future usage of the app. Students requested expanded anatomy content for the entire learning block, as well as more clinical correlations, videos, and animations. The integrated anatomy mobile app developed in this study was useful and easy to use, indicating continued use within an integrated medical curriculum. This was the first study to utilize the TAM as a conceptual framework for technology assessment in medical education, suggesting that future studies that develop new technologies should adapt the TAM for user testing.
Analysis of the Applications of Particle Swarm Optimization and Genetic Algorithms on Reaction Kinetics: A Prospective Study for Advanced Oxidation Processes
Authors: Acosta‐Angulo Bryan , Diaz‐Angulo Jennyfer , Lara‐Ramos Jose , Torres‐Palma Ricardo , Martínez‐Pachón Diana , Moncayo‐Lasso Alejandro , Machuca‐Martínez Fiderman
Published: April 2022

A bibliometric analysis of the Scopus database was implemented to assess the spread of two types of evolutionary algorithms (EAs), genetic algorithms (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO), on the study of reaction kinetics. Particular attention was given to applications for advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). The collaborations between countries and authors, as well as the keywords co‐occurrences, were investigated. Finally, the Gompertz and Logistic Substitution models (LSM) were employed to forecast future scenarios. It was observed that GA methods were the preferred algorithms for reaction kinetic studies, and the USA was the most influential country in terms of collaboration, followed by China. On the other hand, there was still poor collaboration for most countries; this was also observed for authors’ collaboration. In addition, literature concerning AOPs was still scarce. The forecasting suggested growth for implementing evolutionary algorithms, especially for the PSO, increasing its popularity regarding GA methods.
Experimental Splitting of Hydrogen Sulfide by Halogens for Application in Reaction Cycles
Authors: Wiesehahn Maximilian , Zimmermann Elodia Morales , Agar David W.
Published: April 2022

Hydrogen sulfide is a toxic gas that is almost always present in the processing of crude oil or natural gas and must be removed. In addition, hydrogen can be used as an energy carrier if it can be separated from H2S. In this work, as the first step of a reaction cycle that could achieve just that, the bromination and chlorination of hydrogen sulfide are experimentally studied. It can be shown that both halogens are capable of completely converting hydrogen sulfide in a gas phase reaction. While the chlorination can produce byproducts, the bromination is free of such.
Sulforaphane is Synergistic with CB‐5083 and Inhibits Colony Formation of CB‐5083‐Resistant HCT116 Cells
Authors: Wang Feng , Li Shan , Rosencrans William M. , Cheng Kai‐Wen , Stott Gordon M. , Mroczkowski Barbara , Chou Tsui‐Fen
Published: April 2022

Human p97 is a potential drug target in oncology. Mutation‐driven drug resistance is an obstacle to the long‐term efficacy of targeted therapy. We found that the ATPase activity for one of the CB‐5083‐resistant p97 mutants was reduced, which also attenuated the degradation of K48 ubiquitinated proteins in cells. To understand how p97 mutant cells with significantly reduced ATPase activity can still grow, we discovered reduced levels of CHOP and NF‐κB activation in the p97 mutant cells and these cellular changes can potentially protect HCT116 cells from death due to lowered p97 activity. In addition, the NF‐kB inhibitor Sulforaphane reduces proliferation of CB‐5083 resistant cells and acts synergistically with CB‐5083 to block proliferation of the parental HCT116 cells. The combination of Sulforaphane and CB‐5083 may be a useful treatment strategy to combat CB‐5083 resistance.
Use of Real‐World Data and Physiologically‐Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling to Characterize Enoxaparin Disposition in Children With Obesity
Authors: Gerhart Jacqueline G. , Carreño Fernando O. , Loop Matthew Shane , Lee Craig R. , Edginton Andrea N. , Sinha Jaydeep , Kumar Karan R. , Kirkpatrick Carl M. , Hornik Christoph P. , Gonzalez Daniel ,   the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act – Pediatric Trials Network Steering Committee
Published: April 2022

Dosing guidance for children with obesity is often unknown despite the fact that nearly 20% of US children are classified as obese. Enoxaparin, a commonly prescribed low‐molecular‐weight heparin, is dosed based on body weight irrespective of obesity status to achieve maximum concentration within a narrow therapeutic or prophylactic target range. However, whether children with and without obesity experience equivalent enoxaparin exposure remains unclear. To address this clinical question, 2,825 anti–activated factor X (anti‐Xa) surrogate concentrations were collected from the electronic health records of 596 children, including those with obesity. Using linear mixed‐effects regression models, we observed that 4‐hour anti‐Xa concentrations were statistically significantly different in children with and without obesity, even for children with the same absolute dose (P = 0.004). To further mechanistically explore obesity‐associated differences in anti‐Xa concentration, a pediatric physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was developed in adults, and then scaled to children with and without obesity. This PBPK model incorporated binding of enoxaparin to antithrombin to form anti‐Xa and elimination via heparinase‐mediated metabolism and glomerular filtration. Following scaling, the PBPK model predicted real‐world pediatric concentrations well, with an average fold error (standard deviation of the fold error) of 0.82 (0.23) and 0.87 (0.26) in children with and without obesity, respectively. PBPK model simulations revealed that children with obesity have at most 20% higher 4‐hour anti‐Xa concentrations under recommended, total body weight–based dosing compared to children without obesity owing to reduced weight‐normalized clearance. Enoxaparin exposure was better matched across age groups and obesity status using fat‐free mass weight‐based dosing.
Synthesis of Magnesium Hydroxide Using Post‐Reaction Filtrate as Ammonia Carrier and Morphology Analysis
Authors: Shi Xiaoyan , Chen Hang , Sun Yuzhu , Song Xingfu , Yu Jianguo
Published: April 2022

This study proposes an advanced technology using post‐reaction filtrate as an ammonia carrier to synthesize magnesium hydroxide (MH) with small particles, which can benefit subsequent hydrothermal modification. In this work, the limitation of ammonia gas and ammonia water methods is avoided. The impact of operating parameters including MgCl2 concentration, temperature, ammonia‐to‐magnesium molar ratio, feed rate, volume of ammonia mother liquor and aging time on the magnesium yield, particle size, and morphology of MH is studied. The temperature and ammonia‐to‐magnesium molar ratio are identified as key factors affecting magnesium yield. MH with a half‐content diameter of 1.70 µm and a morphology resembling small irregular flakes is successfully synthesized at a magnesium yield of 90.06%. The predictions of idea crystal habits are also performed using Morphology and CASTEP modules with Materials Studio Software. The (0 0 1) face can be preserved with the largest facet area because of the slowest crystal growth rate and the smallest attachment energy, which exhibits that MH crystals tend to be flakes.
Predictive value of intra‐tumoural TCRβ rearrangements in precisely selecting adjuvant therapy for EGFR‐mutant non‐small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Chen Cunte , Liu Si‐Yang Maggie , Wu Yi‐Long , Liu Si‐Yang , Li Yangqiu
Published: April 2022

In this commentary, we discussed the important role of intratumoural specific T‐cell receptor (TCR) β chain rearrangements on tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes in predicting clinical outcomes of adjuvant tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy or chemotherapy in patients with non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation from two aspects. The in‐depth study of the local immune microenvironment may help to discover possible biomarkers for predicting the overall survival and disease‐free survival and may further direct to select of the appropriate adjuvant therapy in EGFR‐mutant NSCLC patients according to the special TCR rearrangements.
Off‐target effects of bacillus Calmette–Guérin vaccination on immune responses to SARS‐CoV‐2: implications for protection against severe COVID‐19
Authors: Messina Nicole L , Germano Susie , McElroy Rebecca , Rudraraju Rajeev , Bonnici Rhian , Pittet Laure F , Neeland Melanie R , Nicholson Suellen , Subbarao Kanta , Curtis Nigel ,   the BRACE trial
Published: April 2022

Background and objectives

Because of its beneficial off‐target effects against non‐mycobacterial infectious diseases, bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccination might be an accessible early intervention to boost protection against novel pathogens. Multiple epidemiological studies and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are investigating the protective effect of BCG against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). Using samples from participants in a placebo‐controlled RCT aiming to determine whether BCG vaccination reduces the incidence and severity of COVID‐19, we investigated the immunomodulatory effects of BCG on in vitro immune responses to SARS‐CoV‐2.

Methods

This study used peripheral blood taken from participants in the multicentre RCT and BCG vaccination to reduce the impact of COVID‐19 on healthcare workers (BRACE trial). The whole blood taken from BRACE trial participants was stimulated with γ‐irradiated SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected or mock‐infected Vero cell supernatant. Cytokine responses were measured by multiplex cytokine analysis, and single‐cell immunophenotyping was made by flow cytometry.

Results

BCG vaccination, but not placebo vaccination, reduced SARS‐CoV‐2‐induced secretion of cytokines known to be associated with severe COVID‐19, including IL‐6, TNF‐α and IL‐10. In addition, BCG vaccination promoted an effector memory phenotype in both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and an activation of eosinophils in response to SARS‐CoV‐2.

Conclusions

The immunomodulatory signature of BCG’s off‐target effects on SARS‐CoV‐2 is consistent with a protective immune response against severe COVID‐19.
PD‐1 improves accurate detection of Sezary cells by flow cytometry in peripheral blood in mycosis fungoides/Sezary syndrome
Authors: Lewis Natasha E. , Gao Qi , Petrova‐Drus Kseniya , Pulitzer Melissa , Sigler Allison , Baik Jeeyeon , Moskowitz Alison J. , Horwitz Steven M. , Dogan Ahmet , Roshal Mikhail
Published: April 2022

Background

Accurate Sezary cell detection in peripheral blood of mycosis fungoides/Sezary syndrome (MF/SS) patients by flow cytometry can be difficult due to overlapping immunophenotypes with normal T cells using standard markers. We assessed the utility of programmed death‐1 (PD‐1/CD279), a transmembrane protein expressed in some hematopoietic cells, for identification and quantitation of circulating Sezary cells among established markers using flow cytometry.

Methods

50 MF/SS and 20 control blood samples were immunophenotyped by flow cytometry. Principal component analysis (PCA) assessed contributions of antigens to separation of abnormal from normal T cell populations. PD‐1 was assessed over time in blood and bone marrow of available MF/SS cases.

Results

Normal CD4+ T cells showed dim/intermediate to absent PD‐1 expression. PD‐1 in Sezary cells was informatively brighter (≥1/3 log) than internal normal CD4+ T cells in 39/50 (78%) cases. By PCA, PD‐1 ranked 3rd behind CD7 and CD26 in population separation as a whole; it ranked in the top 3 markers in 32/50 (64%) cases and 1st in 4/50 (8%) cases when individual abnormal populations were compared to total normal CD4+ T cells. PD‐1 clearly separated Sezary from normal CD4+ T cells in 15/26 (58%, 30% of total) cases with few and subtle alterations of pan‐T cell antigens/CD26 and was critical in 6 (12% of total), without which identification and quantification were significantly affected or nearly impossible. PD‐1 remained informative in blood/bone marrow over time in most patients.

Conclusions

PD‐1 significantly contributes to accurate flow cytometric Sezary cell assessment in a routine Sezary panel.
Research Progress in Lithium‐Excess Disordered Rock‐Salt Oxides Cathode
Authors: Wang Manxi , Chen Xiaochuan , Yao Hurong , Lin Ganggang , Lee Jinhyuk , Chen Yuming , Chen Qinghua
Published: April 2022

The increasing demand for new energy sources has promoted the improvement of the energy storage capacity of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) that urged the development of higher energy density cathode materials. The enhancement of the classical cathode in the last 30 years has reached a bottleneck, and then the discovery of the lithium‐excess disordered materials has greatly expanded the research space of the cathode materials. Compared with the conventional layered oxides, the lithium‐excess disordered rock‐salt oxides (LEDRXs) with a more stable structure has higher extractable Li+ content, even though the inactive high‐valent transition metals (TMs) were needed to compensate for the excess Li, which would reduce the total TM redox content. In addition, oxygen redox provides additional electron capacity for the materials, which also causes O loss and results in the subsequent poor cycle performance. Herein, a series of studies about LEDRXs and their targeted modification measures are summarized, including the prospect of the materials, in order to provide ideas for the design of high‐performance LEDRXs. Finally, the new discoveries and outlook on future research directions of LEDRX cathode materials for LIBs with higher energy density are given.
The Nature of Active Sites for Plasmon‐Mediated Photothermal Catalysis and Heat‐Coupled Photocatalysis in Dry Reforming of Methane
Authors: Zhang Jinqiang , Wang Liang , Zhao Xiaoli , Shi Lei , Chen Haijun , Zhang Shu , Zhang Peng , Wang Shuaijun , Zhang Laichang , Wang Yinfeng , Wang Xiaoyuan , Zhu Yuezhao , Zhang Huayang , Duan Xiaoguang , Wu Mingbo , Shao Guosheng , Wang Shaobin , Sun Hongqi
Published: April 2022

Solar energy‐induced catalysis has been attracting intensive interests and its quantum efficiencies in plasmon‐mediated photothermal catalysis (P‐photothermal catalysis) and external heat‐coupled photocatalysis (E‐photothermal catalysis) are ultimately determined by the catalyst structure for photo‐induced energetic hot carriers. Herein, different catalysts of supported (TiO2‐P25 and Al2O3) platinum quantum dots are employed in photo, thermal, and photothermal catalytic dry reforming of methane. Integrated experimental and computational results unveil different active sites (hot zones) on the two catalysts for photo, thermal, and photothermal catalysis. The hot zones of P‐photothermal catalysis are identified to be the metal–support interface on Pt/P25 and the Pt surface on Pt/Al2O3, respectively. However, a change of the active site to the Pt surface on Pt/P25 is for the first time observed in E‐photothermal catalysis (external heating temperature of 700 °C). The hot zones contribute to the significant enhancements in photothermal catalytic reactivity against thermocatalysis. This study helps to understand the reaction mechanism of photothermal catalysis to exploit efficient catalysts for solar energy utilization and fossil fuels upgrading.
Minimal subphenotyping model for acute heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Sotomi Yohei , Sato Taiki , Hikoso Shungo , Komukai Sho , Oeun Bolrathanak , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Nakatani Daisaku , Mizuno Hiroya , Okada Katsuki , Dohi Tomoharu , Sunaga Akihiro , Kida Hirota , Seo Masahiro , Yano Masamichi , Hayashi Takaharu , Nakagawa Akito , Nakagawa Yusuke , Tamaki Shunsuke , Ohtani Tomohito , Yasumura Yoshio , Yamada Takahisa , Sakata Yasushi ,   OCVC‐Heart Failure Investigator
Published: April 2022

Aims

Application of the latent class analysis to acute heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) showed that the heterogeneous acute HFpEF patients can be classified into four distinct phenotypes with different clinical outcomes. This model‐based clustering required a total of 32 variables to be included. However, this large number of variables will impair the clinical application of this classification algorithm. This study aimed to identify the minimal number of variables for the development of optimal subphenotyping model.

Methods and results

This study is a post hoc analysis of the PURSUIT‐HFpEF study (N = 1095), a prospective, multi‐referral centre, observational study of acute HFpEF [UMIN000021831]. We previously applied the latent class analysis to the PURSUIT‐HFpEF dataset and established the full 32‐variable model for subphenotyping. In this study, we used the Cohen's kappa statistic to investigate the minimal number of discriminatory variables needed to accurately classify the phenogroups in comparison with the full 32‐variable model. Cohen's kappa statistic of the top‐X number of discriminatory variables compared with the full 32‐variable derivation model showed that the models with ≥16 discriminatory variables showed kappa value of >0.8, suggesting that the minimal number of discriminatory variables for the optimal phenotyping model was 16. The 16‐variable model consists of C‐reactive protein, creatinine, gamma‐glutamyl transferase, brain natriuretic peptide, white blood cells, systolic blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, triglyceride, clinical scenario classification, infection‐triggered acute decompensated HF, estimated glomerular filtration rate, platelets, neutrophils, GWTG‐HF (Get With The Guidelines‐Heart Failure) risk score, chronic kidney disease, and CONUT (Controlling Nutritional Status) score. Characteristics and clinical outcomes of the four phenotypes subclassified by the minimal 16‐variable model were consistent with those by the full 32‐variable model. The four phenotypes were labelled based on their characteristics as ‘rhythm trouble’, ‘ventricular‐arterial uncoupling’, ‘low output and systemic congestion’, and ‘systemic failure’, respectively.

Conclusions

The phenotyping model with top 16 variables showed almost perfect agreement with the full 32‐variable model. The minimal model may enhance the future clinical application of this clustering algorithm.
Microfabricated Solid‐contact Potentiometric Sensor for Determination of Tedizolid Phosphate, Application to Content Uniformity Testing
Authors: Mahmoud Amr M. , Moaaz Eman M. , Rezk Mamdouh R. , Abdel‐Moety Ezzat M. , Fayed Ahmed S.
Published: April 2022

Solid contact sensors were designed for determination of the antibiotic prodrug tedizolid phosphate. The sensors are based on; microfabricated copper as cost‐effective electrode substrate and graphene layer as a transducer. The ion sensing PVC polymeric membrane was optimized by proper selection of the anion exchanger. The graphene layer was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, FT‐IR, besides measuring electrochemical impedance for the fabricated sensors. The potential drift decreased down to 0.133 mV h−1 compared to 6.67 mV h−1 for graphene free sensor. The sensors have been used to determine tedizolid phosphate in its pharmaceutical formulation and content uniformity testing applications.
A general model for predicting aeolian transport rate over sand surfaces with vegetation cover
Authors: Li Huiru , Liu Chenchen , Cheng Hong , Zou Xueyong , Zhang Chunlai , Liu Bo , Li Jifeng , Kang Liqiang , Wu Yongqiu
Published: April 2022

Aeolian sand transport is caused by wind erosion, which is the main cause of environmental problems such as land desertification, blown sand disasters and air pollution. Previous research results and engineering practices have confirmed that vegetation improvement has long‐term and comprehensive benefits for controlling aeolian sand transport. The role of vegetation in aeolian sand transport can be explained by the complexity of atmospheric, earth and biosphere systems. However, the lack of a universal model used to predict aeolian transport rate on vegetated surface results in different understandings about vegetation effects due to different experimental methods and materials. To clarify the effect of vegetation on aeolian sand transport, we used a large wind tunnel whose experimental section was 24.0 m‐long, 3.0 m‐wide and 2.0‐m high to provide enough length for aeolian transport and designed a set of novel experimental methods to improve the measurement accuracy of the aeolian transport rate. Based on experimental data, we developed a new equation for aeolian transport rate over bare and vegetated surfaces. We determined that models of aeolian transport rate over bare surface in the literature underestimated the aeolian transport rate measured in this study by 63–80%, 89%, 50% and 35%, confirming that the transport rate decreases exponentially as vegetation coverage increases. However, the power exponent is a variable related to particle size and wind velocity as opposed to a constant in the existing literature; thus, we proposed a dimensionless parameter to express the relationship between the power exponent with particle size and wind velocity and constructed the new equation for vegetated surfaces to be more widely applicable. These results would help to understand the effect of vegetation cover on aeolian sand transport process and to improve the effectiveness of vegetation prevention and control.
Association of the Mediterranean Dietary Quality Index with handgrip strength and muscle endurance: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Pourreza Sanaz , Shahinfar Hossein , Bazshahi Elham , Gholami Fateme , Djafarian Kurosh , Shab‐Bidar Sakineh
Published: April 2022

Mediterranean diet is a healthy eating pattern associated with various health advantages. Different scoring methods of adherence to this diet have been used to investigate the association between the Mediterranean diet and muscle outcomes. The present study aimed to investigate the association of the Mediterranean Dietary Quality Index (Med‐DQI) with handgrip strength (HS) and muscle endurance (ME). The current cross‐sectional study involved 268 Iranian adults aged 18–70 years. Anthropometric measures were evaluated. We used the 168‐item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) to develop the Med‐DQI score. The Med‐DQI score ranges from 0 to 14 (lower score suggests higher adherence to Mediterranean diet). HS was measured by a digital handgrip dynamometer, and ME was the amount of time to reach a maximum of 50% of grip strength. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine the association of Med‐DQI and its components with HS and ME. Med‐DQI score was not associated with mean handgrip strength (MHS) (p = .34) and mean muscle endurance (MME) (p = .69) in the crude model. The associations remained insignificant after the adjustment of covariates (p = .16, .31, respectively). Among the components of Med‐DQI, cholesterol, meats, fish, and cereals were positively correlated with MHS (p < .001 for all). Meats (p = .02), olive oil (p < .001), cereals (p = .04), fruits and vegetables (p < .001 for all) were also positively correlated with MME. According to our findings, Med‐DQI score is not associated with MHS and MME in a population of Iranian adults. Further longitudinal studies are required to confirm these findings.
Compensatory engulfment and Müller glia reactivity in the absence of microglia
Authors: Thiel Whitney A. , Blume Zachary I. , Mitchell Diana M.
Published: April 2022

Microglia are known for important phagocytic functions in the vertebrate retina. Reports also suggest that Müller glia have phagocytic capacity, though the relative levels and contexts in which this occurs remain to be thoroughly examined. Here, we investigate Müller glial engulfment of dying cells in the developing zebrafish retina in the presence and absence of microglia, using a genetic mutant in which microglia do not develop. We show that in normal conditions clearance of dying cells is dominated by microglia; however, Müller glia do have a limited clearance role. In retinas lacking intact microglial populations, we found a striking increase in the engulfment load assumed by the Müller glia, which displayed prominent cellular compartments containing apoptotic cells, several of which localized with the early phagosome/endosome marker Rab5. Consistent with increased engulfment, lysosomal staining was also increased in Müller glia in the absence of microglia. Increased engulfment load led to evidence of Müller glia reactivity including upregulation of gfap but did not trigger cell cycle re‐entry by differentiated Müller glia. Our work provides important insight into the phagocytic capacity of Müller glia and the ability for compensatory functions and downstream effects. Therefore, effects of microglial deficiency or depletion on other glial cell types should be well‐considered in experimental manipulations, in neurodegenerative disease, and in therapeutic approaches that target microglia. Our findings further justify future work to understand differential mechanisms and contexts of phagocytosis by glial cells in the central nervous system, and the significance of these mechanisms in health and disease.
Evaluating brain parcellations using the distance‐controlled boundary coefficient
Authors: Zhi Da , King Maedbh , Hernandez‐Castillo Carlos R. , Diedrichsen Jörn
Published: April 2022

One important approach to human brain mapping is to define a set of distinct regions that can be linked to unique functions. Numerous brain parcellations have been proposed, using cytoarchitectonic, structural, or functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data. The intrinsic smoothness of brain data, however, poses a problem for current methods seeking to compare different parcellations. For example, criteria that simply compare within‐parcel to between‐parcel similarity provide even random parcellations with a high value. Furthermore, the evaluation is biased by the spatial scale of the parcellation. To address this problem, we propose the distance‐controlled boundary coefficient (DCBC), an unbiased criterion to evaluate discrete parcellations. We employ this new criterion to evaluate existing parcellations of the human neocortex in their power to predict functional boundaries for an fMRI data set with many different tasks, as well as for resting‐state data. We find that common anatomical parcellations do not perform better than chance, suggesting that task‐based functional boundaries do not align well with sulcal landmarks. Parcellations based on resting‐state fMRI data perform well; in some cases, as well as a parcellation defined on the evaluation data itself. Finally, multi‐modal parcellations that combine functional and anatomical criteria perform substantially worse than those based on functional data alone, indicating that functionally homogeneous regions often span major anatomical landmarks. Overall, the DCBC advances the field of functional brain mapping by providing an unbiased metric that compares the predictive ability of different brain parcellations to define brain regions that are functionally maximally distinct.
Clarifying the impact of corporate governance and intellectual capital on financial performance: A longitudinal study of Deutsche Bank (1957–2019)
Authors: Nawaz Tasawar , Ohlrogge Oliver
Published: April 2022

This article empirically examines the nexuses between corporate governance, intangible resources, CEO traits, and financial performance. In contrast to prior research, this study examines these relationships in a longitudinal manner focusing on Deutsche Bank for the 1957–2019 period. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first of its kind. Based on a novel hand collected dataset, our analysis suggests a significant positive relationship between intangible assets i.e., intellectual capital efficiency and financial performance measured by, return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE). Our results further suggest that human capital efficiency drive the financial performance of Deutsche Bank at all times especially, during the economic malaise periods, suggesting that human capital is the main source of profitability for the Deutsche Bank. Additional results suggest that larger board size diminishes the impact of intangible resources on financial performance when the former CEO assumes board's chairmanship. Finally, our results suggest that CEO's education quality is an important determinant of financial performance during the crisis. Results observed in this study have important economic and policy implications for banks operating in the similar environments.
Solid‐state heteronuclear multiple‐quantum spectroscopy under a magic‐angle spinning frequency of 150kHz
Authors: Yuan Eric Chung‐Yueh , Chen Po‐Wen , Huang Shing‐Jong , Org Mai‐Liis , Samoson Ago , Chan Jerry Chun Chung
Published: April 2022

We hereby demonstrate that1H detected15N‐1H heteronuclear multiple‐quantum spectroscopy can be carried out at a magic angle spinning frequency of 150 kHz. While the15N‐1H multiple‐quantum coherences can be directly excited from the dipolar order created by the method of adiabatic demagnetization in the rotating frame, it is technically more advantageous to acquire the chemical shift evolution of the heteronuclear multiple‐quantum coherence by two separate chemical shift evolution periods for1H and15N. We also show that the heteronuclear multiple‐quantum correlation spectrum can be obtained by shearing the corresponding heteronuclear single‐quantum correlation spectrum.
The comparative palynomorphological studies on Turkish Muscari genera and close relatives (Asparagaceae‐scilloideae) with their taxonomic implications
Authors: Citak Burcu Yilmaz , Uysal Tuna , Bozkurt Meryem , Demirelma Hakkı , Aksoy Ahmet , Ertuğrul Kuddisi
Published: April 2022

By this study, the palynomorphological traits of 49 taxa (53 plant samples) of the genus Muscari which has been the main research topic and also its relatives, Pseudomuscari, Hyacinthella and Bellevalia have been studied in details of both using light and scanning electron microscope. In the end of palynologic works, it was suggested the descriptive or symbolized main pollen types to make easier the separation or identification of the species of Muscari and its relative groups. According to this symbolization, the pollen types of species may be changeable as D‐shaped, elliptical, triangular, and spindle shaped and all types could be seen in different members of the studied taxonomic groups in this paper. One of the most important findings of the study is that the taxa of the genus Muscari, Hyacinthella and Bellevalia do not show a main difference in terms of pollen structures and especially they exhibit harmony. Therefore, it does not possible to mention about the special pollen shape own to one species but it is possible to see common pollen types for closely related taxa or taxon groups. As a result, it could be commented that there is not evolved the close taxonomical groups within Asparagaceae in terms of pollen shape and morphologies and there is considerably a high suitability in point of theirs germ cells or microspores among them.

Research Highlights

A detailed palynological description is provided for Muscari and close relative genus using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy (LM).

Pollen size and sulcus length are been determined as the best informative pollen characters to understand Muscari and other studied species.
CO2 flux in a wheat‐soybean succession in subtropical Brazil: A carbon sink
Authors: Veeck Gustavo Pujol , Dalmago Genei Antonio , Bremm Tiago , Buligon Lidiane , Jacques Rodrigo Josemar Seminoti , Fernandes José Maurício , Santi Anderson , Vargas Paulo Roberto , Roberti Débora Regina
Published: April 2022

The subtropical region of Brazil is home to 33% of the soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] growing area and 90% of the wheat (Tritucum aestivum L.) growing area of this country. A soybean–wheat succession with fallow between crops is used in about 11% of the cultivated area. No study has quantified CO2 fluxes in annual soybean–wheat succession in this region. Hence, this study analyzed the seasonality of CO2 exchange (net ecosystem exchange [NEE]) in a 2015/2016 wheat–soybean succession in a commercial farm located in Carazinho, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. The eddy covariance method was used to estimate the annual C balance of this system. The NEE was partitioned between gross primary productivity and ecosystem respiration to understand the dynamics of these fluxes during a year of wheat–soybean succession. Considering the net ecosystem balance between photosynthesis and respiration during the growing season, both soybean and wheat absorbed CO2 from the atmosphere (NEE wheat: –347 ± 4 g C m–2; NEE soybean: –242 ± 3 g C m–2). The fallow periods between growing seasons, however, acted as a source of 156 ± 2 g C m–2, reducing the C absorbed by the crops by 27%. For 1 yr, the net biome productivity was –50 g C m–2 yr–1. The results obtained here demonstrate that the wheat–soybean succession was a net C sink under these specific climatic conditions and field management practices and that the long fallow period between crops limited the agroecosystem from becoming a more efficient CO2 sink.