bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex estimation by odontometrics of nonadult human remains from a contemporary Italian sample
Authors: Viciano Joan , Tanga Carmen , D'Anastasio Ruggero , Belcastro Maria Giovanna , Capasso Luigi
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The objective was to develop an odontometric technique for sex estimation based on dental measurements from adult individuals, and to evaluate its applicability and reliability for diagnosis of sex of nonadult skeletal remains.

Materials and methods

This study was conducted on the permanent dentition of 132 individuals (70 males, 62 females) from the identified human skeletal collection of the Certosa Cemetery (Bologna, Italy) of the University of Bologna. Binary logistic regression equations were developed based on dental measurements of the permanent teeth of the adult individuals, and these equations were subsequently applied to the permanent dentition of nonadult individuals to estimate their sex.

Results

These data show that the canine teeth of both the maxilla and mandible are the most sexually dimorphic teeth in adults, followed by the mandibular second molar, maxillary and mandibular second and first premolars, and mandibular first molar. These data provided correct assignment of sex in 80.4–94.9% of cases, which depended on the measurements used. Of the 26 nonadult individuals of the experimental sample, sex diagnosis was possible for 22, which represented an applicability rate of 84.6% of the individuals. Comparing the sex of these 22 nonadult individuals estimated by odontometrics with the known biological sex, correct assignment was obtained in 90.9% of cases.

Conclusion

As a method of sex estimation, odontometric analysis of permanent dentition can be used successfully for nonadult human skeletal remains in both forensic and archeological contexts.
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: the importance of follow‐up imaging within 2 weeks
Authors: Fukaguchi Kiyomitsu , Goto Tadahiro , Fukui Hiroyuki , Sekine Ichiro , Yamagami Hiroshi
Published: September 2020

Aim

In patients with thunderclap headaches, reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) should be considered as a differential diagnosis. However, RCVS diagnosis in the emergency department (ED) remains challenging. This report describes the clinical features and factors related to RCVS diagnosis and suggests diagnostic strategies for its management.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of eight patients diagnosed with RCVS from January 2010 to March 2019 (aged 18–69 years, 5 women).

Results

The median duration from the ED visit to RCVS diagnosis was 6 days (range, 1–11 days). Of the eight patients, seven were middle‐aged, six had apparent triggers, six had subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), five had high systolic blood pressure, and none had any specific abnormality observed upon physical examination. At the initial visit, RCVS was diagnosed in only one patient who had a history of RCVS. Of the other patients, SAH was diagnosed in two, and primary headache was diagnosed in four patients with negative computed tomography (CT) findings. Based on follow‐up angiography (e.g., magnetic resonance angiography), seven of eight patients with convexal SAH were diagnosed with RCVS (as the cause of SAH).

Conclusion

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome with negative CT findings at the ED visit was likely to be misdiagnosed as a primary headache. In patients with thunderclap headache and negative CT findings, physicians should consider RCVS as a differential diagnosis, inform patients of the risk of RCVS, and undertake follow‐up imaging within 2 weeks.
S‐parameters, electrical permittivity, and absorbing energy measurements of carbon nanotubes‐based composites in X‐band
Authors: da Silva Valdirene Aparecida , Rezende Mirabel Cerqueira
Published: September 2020

Composites based on carbon nanotubes (CNT) have recently received great attention as a possible new generation of radar absorbing materials (RAM), due to their efficient microwave attenuation capacity and low density. However, RAM performance can vary significantly depending on the CNT being used. Aiming to directly show the influence of CNT from two different suppliers, both multi‐walled and non‐functionalized (CNT‐B and CNT‐K), the electromagnetic behaviors of RAM processed in epoxy resin are compared. Scattering parameters (S‐parameters), complex electrical permittivity and magnetic permeability, and absorbed energy of the composites in the X‐band (8.2–12.4 GHz) are evaluated. The results clearly show the influence of the two different CNT on the electromagnetic characteristics of composites. CNT‐B based composites behave as broadband RAM with the tendency of better attenuation results above 12.4 GHz. On the other hand, CNT‐K based composites show good attenuation results in the X‐band (>99%). Undoubtedly, the results confirm that the longer length of CNT‐K favored the interconnection among the filaments, as well as, the formation of compact agglomerates surrounded by resin rich regions, which favored the impedance matching and mechanisms of losses in the processed RAM.
Embracing organisational environmental sustainability: Experiences in green human resource management
Authors: Sathasivam Kavitha , Abu Bakar Raida , Che Hashim Rosmawani
Published: September 2020

This qualitative study explores the experiences of the managers and employees of electrical and electronics companies in moving towards environmental sustainability with the support of Green Human Resource Management. Based on 12 in‐depth interviews, the data were thematically analysed by using NVivo 12 plus software, with three main themes emerging as embarking on environmental sustainability, building environmental sustainability, and embracing environmental sustainability. This study uses the resource‐based theory as the theoretical lens, and results indicate that the company practises Green Human Resource Management, particularly green employee involvement and participation, green training, green rewards, and green orientation for achieving its environmental sustainability efforts. Most importantly, the results highlight that NGOs, organisational culture, and effective communication are vital in supporting Green Human Resource Management implementation in attaining environmental sustainability goals. The findings of this study have implications for other developing countries, which are striving to achieve their environmental and sustainability goals.
Genome‐wide DNA methylation analysis by MethylRad and the transcriptome profiles reveal the potential cancer‐related lncRNAs in colon cancer
Authors: Zheng Guixi , Zhang Yuzhi , Wang Hongchun , Ding E , Qu Ailin , Su Peng , Yang Yongmei , Zou Mingjin , Zhang Yi
Published: September 2020

Colon cancer (CC) is characterized by global aberrant DNA methylation that may affect gene expression and genomic stability. A series of studies have demonstrated that DNA methylation could regulate the expressions of not only protein‐coding genes but also ncRNAs. However, the regulatory role of lncRNA genes methylaton in CC remains largely unknown. In the present study, we systemically characterize the profile of DNA methylation, especially the aberrant methylation of lncRNAs genes using MethylRAD technology. A total of 132 999 CCGG/8487 CCWGG sites were identified as differentially methylated sites (DMSs), which were mainly located on the introns and intergenic elements. Moreover, 1,359 CCGG/1,052 CCWGG differentially methylated genes (DMGs) were screened. Our results demonstrated that aberrant methylation of lncRNA genes occurred most frequently, accounting for 37.5% and 44.3% in CCGG and CCWGG DMGs respectively. In addition, 963 lncRNA DMGs were co‐analyzed with 1328 differentially expressed lncRNAs which were identified from TCGA database. We found that 15 lncRNAs might be CC‐related lncRNAs. ZNF667‐AS1 and MAFA‐AS1 were down‐regulated in CC, which might be silenced by hypermethylation. Besides, 13 lncRNAs were hypomethylated and up‐regulated in CC. Moreover, our results validated the expression and methylation level of CC‐related lncRNAs by RT‐qPCR and pyrosequencing assay. In conclusion, we performed a genome‐wide DNA methylation analysis by MethylRAD to acquire both CCGG and CCWGG DMSs and DMGs in CC. The results screened lncRNA DMSs as potential biomarkers and identified 15 lncRNAs as CC‐related lncRNAs. This study provided novel therapy targets and valuable insights into molecular mechanism in tumorigenesis and development of CC.
Accuracy of transvaginal sonoelastography for differential diagnosis between malignant and benign cervical lesions: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhu Yi , Leng Xue‐Feng , Zhang Guo‐Nan , Huang Zi‐Yi , Qiu Li , Huang Wei
Published: September 2020

Background

To evaluate the performance of transvaginal sonoelastography (TVSE) for differential diagnosis between malignant and benign cervical lesions using a meta‐analysis.

Methods

An independent literature search was conducted on the English medical database, including PubMed, Embase and Medline, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and OVID. The diagnostic accuracy of TVSE was compared with that of histopathology, which is the gold reference standard for diagnosis. The accuracy of TVSE was assessed by calculating the pooled sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio, and area under the curve (AUC). The imaging mechanisms, assessment methods, and QUADAS scores were assessed with a meta‐regression analysis. A Deeks funnel plot was performed for evaluating publication bias.

Results

Six eligible studies reported a total sample of 615 cervical lesions (415 cancers, 200 benign lesions). TVSE showed a pooled diagnostic odds ratio of 21.42 (95% CI 13.65‐33.61), sensitivity of 0.87 (95% CI 0.84‐0.90), specificity of 0.79 (95% CI 0.72‐0.84), and an AUC of 0.892 (Q* = 0.822). The results of the meta‐regression analysis showed that the imaging mechanism (P = .253), the assessment method (P = .279), or QUADAS score (P = .205) did not affect the study heterogeneity.

Conclusion

TVSE has a relatively high and satisfactory value for differential diagnosis between malignant and benign cervical lesions. The diagnostic performance of strain elastography and shear wave elastography were similar and good. However, to accommodate heterogeneity and publication bias, high‐quality studies are required to further comparative effectiveness analyses to verify the efficacy of ultrasound detection.
Monochorionic twins discordant for trisomy 13: A case report, systematic literature search and synthesis of available evidence
Authors: Cornish Emily F. , Wimalasundera Ruwan , Attilakos George
Published: September 2020

This article presents the tenth reported case of monochorionic twins discordant for trisomy 13. Discordant aneuploidies in monochorionic twins are rare. Aetiologies include mitotic error in early cell division and “rescue” chromosome loss in an initially trisomic zygote. Clinicians should offer early amniocentesis of both sacs and consider selective termination.
Multifunctional WO3/NiCo2O4 heterojunction with extensively exposed bimetallic Ni/Co redox reaction sites for efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Hao Zhichao , Guo Zhengang , Ruan Mengnan , Ya Jing , Yang Yong , Wu Xiangfeng , Liu Zhifeng
Published: September 2020

The enhanced separation and injection efficiencies of photogenerated carriers is essential to improve the photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance of WO3 photoanode. In this work, we firstly synthesized WO3/NiCo2O4 heterojunction through simple hydrothermal‐annealing method as well as investigate the effect and mechanism of NiCo2O4 on WO3 for PEC performances. The measurements demonstrate that the nano‐needle NiCo2O4 grown on the surface of WO3 induces the bimetallic Ni/Co redox reaction sites extensively exposed to the electrolyte, which is beneficial to enhance the PEC performances of WO3 photoanode, such as photocurrent density improved by four times (0.84 mA/cm2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE) as well as more negative initial potential (∼280 mV) in contrast to bare WO3. Further investigation shows the remarkable enhancement of PEC performances is attributed to improved surface reaction kinetics, the enhanced injection efficiency and separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers due to the co‐catalyst effect of NiCo2O4 and the formation of WO3/NiCo2O4 heterojunction. This work provides reference for application of heterojunction with co‐catalyst function, which is beneficial to the development and application of similar structures.
Ant colony optimization for variable selection in discriminant linear analysis
Authors: Pontes Aline S. , Araújo Alisson , Marinho Weverton , Gonçalves Dias Diniz Paulo H. , de Araújo Gomes Adriano , Goicoechea Hector C. , Silva Edvan C. , Araújo Mario C.U.
Published: September 2020

A new algorithm using ant colony optimization (ACO) for selection of variables in linear discriminant analysis (LDA) is presented. The role of ACO is explored in the context of LDA classification in which spectral variable multicollinearity is a known cause of generalization problems. The proposed ACO‐LDA presents a metaheuristic that mimics the ant's cooperative behavior, randomly depositing pheromones at vector elements corresponding to the most relevant variables. Such cooperative ant‐like behavior, which is absent in the genetic algorithm, increases the probability of discarding noninformative variables, favoring construction of more parsimonious models than genetic algorithm–linear discriminate analysis (GA‐LDA). The classification performance of ACO‐LDA is assessed in two case studies: (i) classification of edible vegetable oils (with respect to base oil) via ultraviolet–visible (UV‐Vis) spectrometry and (ii) simultaneous classification of tea samples with respect to type and geographic origin via near‐infrared (NIR) spectrometry. In the first study, ACO‐LDA was tested in a data set involving wide absorption bands in the UV region with low‐resolution and strong spectral overlapping. In the second study, its capacity to manage a data matrix with high dimensionality was evaluated. In both studies, ACO‐LDA selected a small subset of variables, which led to correct classifications for almost all of the samples, achieving a performance level similar to the well‐established partial least squares–discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA), and considerably better than GA‐LDA. The use of ACO to select LDA classification variables can minimize generalization problems commonly associated with multicollinearity.
Visible‐Light‐Driven Fluoroalkylation of Tryptophan Residues in Peptides
Authors: Rahimidashaghoul Kheironnesae , Klimánková Iveta , Hubálek Martin , Matoušek Václav , Filgas Josef , Slavíček Petr , Slanina Tomáš , Beier Petr
Published: September 2020

Trifluoromethylated and fluoroalkylated cyclic λ3‐iodanes and their acyclic salts were used for visible light‐driven fluoroalkylation of tryptophan and tryptophan‐containing peptides in aqueous media. In comparison to previously reported fluoroalkylation using similar reagents and sodium ascorbate as reductant, the photochemical process did not require any additive or catalyst and was more selective for Trp versus other aromatic amino acids due to the gradual production of fluoroalkyl radicals over the whole irradiation period. However, in the presence of Cys residues, both methods were not selective and cysteine sulfhydryl groups were fluoroalkylated in side reactions. Spectroscopic and photochemical investigations as well as quantum chemical calculations provided insight into the reaction mechanism. The process was found to be photoinduced involving the formation of fluoroalkyl radical from the excited state of λ3‐iodane.
PLASTOCHRON1 regulates leaf inclination through Brassinolide pathway in Oryza sativa
Authors: Xiong Yuzhen , Xie Jia , Zhang Xiaobo , Li Yangyang , Tian Weijiang , Ni Jile , Zhu Zhu , Wang Ying , Wen Xiaozhu , Sang Xianchun
Published: September 2020

Leaf inclination directly affects the lamina angle of rice (Oryza sativa), which in turn affects the photosynthetic efficiency of the leaves and grain yield. A mutant s544 characterized by enhanced leaf inclination as well as small aerial organs was identified from the progeny of ethyl‐methanesulfonate treated seeds of Indica rice ‘Xida 1B’. Genetic analysis indicated that the mutant traits were controlled by a single recessive nuclear gene. Using a F2 population derived from ‘Jinhui 10’ and the mutant, the mutated gene was mapped on chromosome 10 between markers RM25367 and XJ‐1, with a physical distance of 246 kb, which included PLASTOCHRON1(PLA1). Sequencing revealed a C to A substitution at position 1489 of the coding region of PLA1, which caused conversion of the encoded amino acid from proline to threonine. The s544 mutant showed increased sensitivity to exogenous brassinolide (24‐eBL) compared with the wild type. QPCR revealed that the genes of s544 positively regulated brassinolide signal transduction, especially for BU1 and ILI1 with up‐regulated expression over seventy times, and that MDP1, a negative‐regulated gene, decreased significantly in the half of the wild type. Meanwhile, D4 and D11 involved into BR‐synthesis were up‐regulated in s544. These results suggested that PLA1 may regulate BR signaling and biosynthetic pathways in rice organ development.
Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of Covalent Organic Frameworks: A Review
Authors: Díaz de Greñu Borja , Torres Juan , García‐González Javier , Muñoz‐Pina Sara , de los Reyes Ruth , Costero Ana M. , Amorós Pedro , Ros‐Lis Jose V.
Published: September 2020

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are relatively recent materials. They have received great attention due to their interesting properties. However, the application of microwaves in their synthesis, despite its advantages such as faster and more reproducible processes, is a minority. Herein, a comprehensive compilation of the research results published in the microwave‐assisted synthesis (MAS) of COFs is presented. This review includes articles of 2D and 3D COFs prepared using microwaves as source of energy. The articles have been classified depending on the functional groups including boronate ester, imines, enamines, azines, and triazines, among others. It compiles the main parameters of synthesis and characteristics of the materials together with some general issues related with COFs and microwaves. Additionally, current and future perspectives of the topic have been discussed.
Highly Nickel‐Loaded γ‐Alumina Composites for a Radiofrequency‐Heated, Low‐Temperature CO2 Methanation Scheme
Authors: Wang Wei , Duong‐Viet Cuong , Tuci Giulia , Liu Yuefeng , Rossin Andrea , Luconi Lapo , Nhut Jean‐Mario , Nguyen‐Dinh Lam , Giambastiani Giuliano , Pham‐Huu Cuong
Published: September 2020

In this work, we joined highly Ni‐loaded γ‐Al2O3 composites, straightforwardly prepared by impregnation methods, with an induction heating setup suited to control, almost in real‐time, any temperature swing at the catalyst sites (i. e., “hot spots” ignition) caused by an exothermic reaction at the heart of the power‐to‐gas (P2G) chain: CO2 methanation. We have shown how the combination of a poor thermal conductor (γ‐Al2O3) as support for large and highly interconnected nickel aggregates together with a fast heat control of the temperature at the catalytic bed allow part of the extra‐heat generated by the reaction exothermicity to be reused for maintaining the catalyst under virtual isothermal conditions, hence reducing the reactor power supply. Most importantly, a highly efficient methanation scheme for substitute natural gas (SNG) production (X
up 98 % with >99 % S
) under operative temperatures (150–230 °C) much lower than those commonly required with traditional heating setup has been proposed. As far as sustainable and environmental issues are concerned, this approach re‐evaluates industrially attractive composites (and their large‐scale preparation methods) for application to key processes at the heart of P2G chain while providing robust catalysts for which risks associated to nano‐objects leaching phenomena are markedly reduced if not definitively suppressed.
Succinate dehydrogenase‐deficient gastrointestinal stromal tumor of stomach diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle biopsy: Report of a distinct subtype in cytology
Authors: Gokozan Hamza Numan , Bomeisl Philip
Published: September 2020

Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH)‐deficient gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are characterized by the lack of mutations in KIT receptor tyrosine kinase complex and platelet derived growth factor receptor‐alpha (PDGFRA) that are commonly found in the majority of GISTs. SDH‐deficient GISTs comprise approximately 5%‐10% of all GISTs. This subset may be associated with Carney Triad and Carney‐Stratakis syndrome. SDH‐deficient GISTs show unique demographic, radiologic, morphologic findings, clinical behavior, and treatment response. To our knowledge, the identification and characterization of this subset of GISTs have not yet been described in the cytopathology literature. By understanding the clinical as well as the other unique features of this tumor, in addition to the rapidly evolving identification of specific molecular alterations and targeted therapies, cytopathologists may play an important role in the diagnosis and work‐up of these patients to allow clinicians to better manage and treat them. We present a young female with gastric SDH‐deficient GIST diagnosed by fine‐needle biopsy with supporting surgical pathology follow‐up and molecular confirmation. This report suggests that the diagnosis of SDH‐deficient GIST can be made on cytology in the appropriate clinical setting by using cytomorphologic features and demonstrating SDH loss by IHC on the cell block. In addition, molecular testing may be possible on the cytology cell block or supernatant to confirm the diagnosis.
Association of genetic and climatic variability in giant sequoia, Sequoiadendron giganteum, reveals signatures of local adaptation along moisture‐related gradients
Authors: DeSilva Rainbow , Dodd Richard S.
Published: September 2020

Uncovering the genetic basis of local adaptation is a major goal of evolutionary biology and conservation science alike. In an era of climate change, an understanding of how environmental factors shape adaptive diversity is crucial to predicting species response and directing management. Here, we investigate patterns of genomic variation in giant sequoia, an iconic and ecologically important tree species, using 1,364 bi‐allelic single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We use an FST outlier test and two genotype–environment association methods, latent factor mixed models (LFMMs) and redundancy analysis (RDA), to detect complex signatures of local adaptation. Results indicate 79 genomic regions of potential adaptive importance, with limited overlap between the detection methods. Of the 58 loci detected by LFMM, 51 showed strong correlations to a precipitation‐driven composite variable and seven to a temperature‐related variable. RDA revealed 24 outlier loci with association to climate variables, all of which showed strongest relationship to summer precipitation. Nine candidate loci were indicated by two methods. After correcting for geographic distance, RDA models using climate predictors accounted for 49% of the explained variance and showed significant correlations between SNPs and climatic factors. Here, we present evidence of local adaptation in giant sequoia along gradients of precipitation and provide a first step toward identifying genomic regions of adaptive significance. The results of this study will provide information to guide management strategies that seek to maximize adaptive potential in the face of climate change.
How do less‐expensive nitrogen alternatives affect legume sanctions on rhizobia?
Authors: Oono Ryoko , Muller Katherine E. , Ho Randy , Jimenez Salinas Andres , Denison Robert Ford
Published: September 2020

The evolutionary stability of mutualistic interactions involving multiple partners requires “sanctioning”–the ability to influence the fitness of each partner based on its respective contribution. Sanctions must be sensitive to even small differences if even slightly less‐beneficial partners could gain a fitness advantage by diverting resources away from the mutualistic service toward their own reproductive fitness. Here, we test whether legume hosts sanction even mediocre N2‐fixing rhizobial strains by influencing either nodule growth (which limits rhizobial cell numbers) or carbon accumulation (polyhydroxybutryate or PHB) per rhizobial cell. We also test whether sanctions depend on the availability of less‐expensive nitrogen alternatives, either as nitrate or coinoculation with a more‐efficient isogenic strain. We found that nitrate eliminated differences in nodule size between the mediocre and more‐efficient strains, suggesting that host sanctions were compromised. However, nitrate additions also decreased PHB accumulation by the mediocre strain, which may eliminate any fitness advantages of diverting resources from N2 fixation. Coinoculation with a more‐efficient strain could also compromise host sanctions if reduction in fitness from smaller nodules does not offset the potential fitness gain from greater PHB accumulation that we observed in the mediocre strain. Hence, a host's ability to sanction mediocre strains depends not only on alternative sources of nitrogen but also the relative importance of different components of rhizobial fitness.
Minimum habitat thresholds required for conserving mountain lion genetic diversity
Authors: Dellinger Justin A. , Gustafson Kyle D. , Gammons Daniel J. , Ernest Holly B. , Torres Steven G.
Published: September 2020

Jointly considering the ecology (e.g., habitat use) and genetics (e.g., population genetic structure and diversity) of a species can increase understanding of current conservation status and inform future management practices. Previous analyses indicate that mountain lion (Puma concolor) populations in California are genetically structured and exhibit extreme variation in population genetic diversity. Although human development may have fragmented gene flow, we hypothesized the quantity and quality of remaining habitat available would affect the genetic viability of each population. Our results indicate that area of suitable habitat, determined via a resource selection function derived using 843,500 location fixes from 263 radio‐collared mountain lions, is strongly and positively associated with population genetic diversity and viability metrics, particularly with effective population size. Our results suggested that contiguous habitat of ≥10,000 km2 may be sufficient to alleviate the negative effects of genetic drift and inbreeding, allowing mountain lion populations to maintain suitable effective population sizes. Areas occupied by five of the nine geographic–genetic mountain lion populations in California fell below this habitat threshold, and two (Santa Monica Area and Santa Ana) of those five populations lack connectivity to nearby populations. Enhancing ecological conditions by protection of greater areas of suitable habitat and facilitating positive evolutionary processes by increasing connectivity (e.g., road‐crossing structures) might promote persistence of small or isolated populations. The conservation status of suitable habitat also appeared to influence genetic diversity of populations. Thus, our results demonstrate that both the area and status (i.e., protected or unprotected) of suitable habitat influence the genetic viability of mountain lion populations.
Cross‐Linked Hollow Graphitic Carbon as Low‐Cost and High‐Performance Anode for Potassium Ion Batteries
Authors: Feng Yanhong , Chen Suhua , Shen Dongyang , Zhou Jiang , Lu Bingan
Published: September 2020

Large‐scale and low‐cost preparation of carbon‐based potassium anode with long life and high capacity is one of the footstones for the development of potassium ion batteries (PIBs). Herein, a low‐cost carbon‐based material, cross‐linked hollow graphitic carbon (HGC), is large scale synthesized to apply for PIBs anode. Its hollow structure can afford sufficient space to overcome the damage caused by the volume expansion of graphitic carbon (GC). While the cross‐linked structure forms a compact interconnection network that allows electrons to rapid transfer between different GC frameworks. Electrochemical measurements demonstrated that the HGC anode exhibited low charge/discharge plateau (about 0.25 V and 0.1 V) and excellent specific capacity as high as 298 mA h g−1 at the current density of 50 mA g−1. And more important, after 200 cycles the capacity of HGC anode still shows 269 mA h g−1 (the decay rate of per cycle is only 0.048%). Meanwhile, the use of commercial traditional electrolyte (KPF6) and cheap raw materials that provide new hope for trying and realizing the large‐scale production of PIBs based on carbon anode materials.
Isomerism‐Activity Relation in Molecular Electrocatalysis: A Perspective
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Sanchayita , Kottaichamy Alagar Raja , Bhat Zahid Manzoor , Dargily Neethu Christudas , Thotiyl Musthafa Ottakam
Published: September 2020

This perspective provides a brief overview on the role of isomerism of secondary‐sphere functionality in molecular electrocatalysis, without which there exists a clear knowledge‐gap in defining a molecule's structure‐activity relation. The discussion unfolds how isomerism of the functionality triggers short‐range interactions in the molecule leading to unprecedented events in electrocatalysis. This perspective highlights that the isomerism of substituents makes an independent contribution to electrocatalysis over its nature and for exploiting the maximum potential of the molecule in electrocatalysis, nature of the substituent as well as its isomerism should be given consideration.
Persist in place or shift in space? Evaluating the adaptive capacity of species to climate change
Authors: Thurman Lindsey L , Stein Bruce A , Beever Erik A , Foden Wendy , Geange Sonya R , Green Nancy , Gross John E , Lawrence David J , LeDee Olivia , Olden Julian D , Thompson Laura M , Young Bruce E
Published: September 2020

Assessing the vulnerability of species to climate change serves as the basis for climate‐adaptation planning and climate‐smart conservation, and typically involves an evaluation of exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity (AC). AC is a species’ ability to cope with or adjust to changing climatic conditions, and is the least understood and most inconsistently applied of these three factors. We propose an attribute‐based framework for evaluating the AC of species, identifying two general classes of adaptive responses: “persist in place” and “shift in space”. Persist‐in‐place attributes enable species to survive in situ, whereas the shift‐in‐space response emphasizes attributes that facilitate tracking of suitable bioclimatic conditions. We provide guidance for assessing AC attributes and demonstrate the framework's application for species with disparate life histories. Results illustrate the broad utility of this generalized framework for informing adaptation planning and guiding species conservation in a rapidly changing climate.
Finite transformation rigid motion mesh morpher; A grid deformation approach
Authors: Liatsikouras Athanasios G. , Fougeron Gabriel , Eleftheriou George S. , Pierrot Guillaume
Published: September 2020

In any shape optimization framework and specifically in the context of computational fluid dynamics, a robust and reliable grid deformation tool is necessary to undertake the adaptation of the computational mesh to the updated boundaries at each optimization cycle. Grid deformation has its share of challenges, namely, to maintain high mesh quality (avoid distorted elements and tangles) even when dealing with extreme deformations. In this work a novel grid deformation algorithm, the finite transformation rigid motion mesh morpher (FT‐R3M) is proposed. FT‐R3M is essentially a mesh‐free grid deformation approach, since it does not require any inertial quantities and it gracefully propagates the movement of the boundaries (surface mesh) to the internal nodes of the mesh (volume mesh), by keeping the motion of its parts (referred to as stencils) as‐rigid‐as‐possible. It is an optimization‐based method, which means that the interior nodes of the computational mesh are displaced to minimize a distortion metric related to the elastic deformation energy, by favoring rigidity in critical directions, thus being able to handle mesh anisotropies very efficiently. Results are presented for three test cases; a rotated airfoil with a mesh appropriate for viscous flow; a simulation of a low Reynolds duct case; a beam.
Effect of xylo‐oligosaccharides (XOS) addition on technological and sensory attributes of cookies
Authors: Juhász Réka , Penksza Péter , Sipos László
Published: September 2020

Xylo‐oligosaccharides (XOS) are nondigestible oligosaccharides (NDO) which are recently authorized as novel food ingredients in European Union. Present study introduces the effect of XOS on baking quality of cookies. Color measurements proved that XOS enhance the caramelization during baking. Texture profile, geometry, and baking loss of cookies showed little changes due to XOS addition indicating that XOS are easy to incorporate into baking products. Based on sensory evaluation by expert panel, it was observed that XOS increased the “baked character” of the cookies as indicated by the increased caramel flavor, darker color, and crispier texture. XOS addition also increased the sweet taste and global taste intensity of cookies suggesting that in bakery products XOS evolve a flavor enhancer role. XOS proved to be a promising new alternative to increase dietary fiber content of cereal‐based cookies.
Compound Fu brick tea modifies the intestinal microbiome composition in high‐fat diet‐induced obesity mice
Authors: Zhou Caibi , Zhou Xiaolu , Wen Zhirui , Liu Liming , Yang Zaibo , Yang Lu , Li Ping , Guo Xiying , Mei Xin
Published: September 2020

Compound Fu Brick Tea (CFBT), which is from Duyun city in China, is a traditional Chinese dark tea, Fu Brick Tea, mixed with six herbal medicine. It is consumed by local people for reducing weight, but the mechanism is not clear. The disorder of intestinal microbiome caused by long‐term high‐fat diet (HFD) is one of the inducements of obesity and related metabolic syndrome. In this study, mice were fed with HFD to establish a high‐fat model. Fifty mice were randomly divided into six groups: normal control (CK), HFD model control (NK), positive control with medicine (YK), CFBT groups with low, middle, and high dose (FL, FM, FH). The V3‐V4 DNA region of fecal microbiome from mouse intestine was sequenced. The results showed that the diversity of intestinal microflora was highest in CK and lowest in NK. Compared with CK, the dominant bacterium Firmicutes was increased and Bacteroidetes decreased at phylum level in NK. Compared with NK, the abundance of microbiome in CFBT groups was significantly higher and the composition was changed: Muribaculaceae, Bacteroidaceae, and Prevotellaceae increased and Lachnospiraceae decreased in CFBT groups at family level, while at the genus level, Bacteroides increased and Lactobacillus decreased. These results conclude that CFBT can increase the abundance of intestinal microbiome in mice, promote the growth of beneficial bacteria and reduce the number of pathogenic bacteria, and restore the imbalance of intestinal microbiome caused by poor diet.
Depth relationships and measures of tissue thickness in dorsal midbrain
Authors: Truong Paulina , Kim Jung Hwan , Savjani Ricky , Sitek Kevin R. , Hagberg Gisela E. , Scheffler Klaus , Ress David
Published: September 2020

Dorsal human midbrain contains two nuclei with clear laminar organization, the superior and inferior colliculi. These nuclei extend in depth between the superficial dorsal surface of midbrain and a deep midbrain nucleus, the periaqueductal gray matter (PAG). The PAG, in turn, surrounds the cerebral aqueduct (CA). This study examined the use of two depth metrics to characterize depth and thickness relationships within dorsal midbrain using the superficial surface of midbrain and CA as references. The first utilized nearest‐neighbor Euclidean distance from one reference surface, while the second used a level‐set approach that combines signed distances from both reference surfaces. Both depth methods provided similar functional depth profiles generated by saccadic eye movements in a functional MRI task, confirming their efficacy for delineating depth for superficial functional activity. Next, the boundaries of the PAG were estimated using Euclidean distance together with elliptical fitting, indicating that the PAG can be readily characterized by a smooth surface surrounding PAG. Finally, we used the level‐set approach to measure tissue depth between the superficial surface and the PAG, thus characterizing the variable thickness of the colliculi. Overall, this study demonstrates depth‐mapping schemes for human midbrain that enables accurate segmentation of the PAG and consistent depth and thickness estimates of the superior and inferior colliculi.
Response to Terlipressin and Albumin Is Associated With Improved Liver Transplant Outcomes in Patients With Hepatorenal Syndrome
Authors: Piano Salvatore , Gambino Carmine , Vettore Elia , Calvino Valeria , Tonon Marta , Boccagni Patrizia , Gringeri Enrico , Germani Giacomo , Burra Patrizia , Cillo Umberto , Angeli Paolo
Published: September 2020

Background and Aims

Although terlipressin and albumin are effective at treating acute kidney injury‐hepatorenal syndrome (AKI‐HRS), liver transplantation (LT) is the best treatment. However, it is unclear if an effective treatment with terlipressin and albumin improves post‐LT outcomes in these patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of response to treatment with terlipressin and albumin on posttransplant outcomes in patients with AKI‐HRS.

Approach and Results

We analyzed two cohorts of patients with cirrhosis listed for LT between 2012 and 2016: 82 patients who developed AKI‐HRS before LT and were treated with terlipressin and albumin and 259 patients without AKI‐HRS who received transplants during the study period (control group). After LT, patients were followed up until discharge, every month for the first 3 months, and every 3 months thereafter. Of the patients, 43 (52%) responded to terlipressin and albumin. Responders had a better 30‐day transplant‐free survival (60% vs. 33%, P = 0.006), longer LT waiting list time (37 vs. 17 days, P = 0.041), and lower Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score at the time of LT (23 vs. 29, P = 0.007). Among patients with AKI‐HRS receiving transplant, nonresponders required renal replacement therapy (RRT) more frequently than responders (20% vs. 0%, P = 0.024). Nonresponders had a significantly higher incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) at 1 year after LT than responders (65% vs. 31%, P = 0.019). In multivariate analysis, nonresponse to terlipressin and albumin was found to be an independent predictor for CKD at 1 year after LT (subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR] = 2.76, P = 0.001), whereas responders did not have an increased risk (SHR = 1.53, P = 0.210).

Conclusions

In patients with AKI‐HRS, response to terlipressin and albumin reduces the need for RRT after LT and reduces the risk of CKD at 1 year after LT.
Selective neuromodulation and mutual inhibition within the CA3–CA2 system can prioritize sequences for replay
Authors: Stöber Tristan M. , Lehr Andrew B. , Hafting Torkel , Kumar Arvind , Fyhn Marianne
Published: September 2020

To make optimal use of previous experiences, important neural activity sequences must be prioritized during hippocampal replay. Integrating insights about the interplay between CA3 and CA2, we propose a conceptual framework that allows the two regions to control which sequences are reactivated. We suggest that neuromodulatory‐gated plasticity and mutual inhibition enable discrete assembly sequences in both regions to support each other while suppressing competing sequences. This perspective provides a coherent interpretation for a variety of seemingly disconnected functional properties of CA2 and paves the way for a more general understanding of CA2.
Using InSAR to identify hydrological connectivity and barriers in a highly fragmented wetland
Authors: Liu Dan , Wang Xuan , Aminjafari Saeid , Yang Wei , Cui Baoshan , Yan Shengjun , Zhang Yunlong , Zhu Jie , Jaramillo Fernando
Published: September 2020

Hydrological connectivity is a critical determinant of wetland functions and health, especially in wetlands that have been heavily fragmented and regulated by human activities. However, investigating hydrological connectivity in these wetlands is challenging due to the costs of high‐resolution and large‐scale monitoring required in order to identify hydrological barriers within the wetlands. To overcome this challenge, we here propose an interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR)‐based methodology to map hydrologic connectivity and identify hydrological barriers in fragmented wetlands. This methodology was applied along 70 transects across the Baiyangdian, the largest freshwater wetland in northern China, using Sentinel 1A and 1B data, covering the period 2016–2019. We generated 58 interferograms providing information on relative water level changes across the transects that showed the high coherence needed for the assessment of hydrological connectivity. We mapped the permanent and conditional (temporary) barriers affecting connectivity. In total, 11% of all transects are permanently disconnected by hydrological barriers across all interferograms and 58% of the transects are conditionally disconnected. Areas covered by reed grasslands show the most undisturbed hydrological connectivity while some of these barriers are the result of ditches and channels within the wetland and low water levels during different periods of the year. This study highlights the potential of the application of Wetland InSAR to determine hydrological connectivity and location of hydrological barriers in highly fragmented wetlands, and facilitates the study of hydrological processes from large spatial scales and long‐time scales using remote sensing technique.
Flow‐ecology modelling to inform reservoir releases for riparian restoration and management
Authors: Hickey John T. , Shafroth Patrick B. , Fields Woodrow L.
Published: September 2020

Linked hydrologic, hydraulic, and ecological models can facilitate planning and implementing water releases from reservoirs to achieve ecological objectives along rivers. We applied a flow‐ecology model, the Ecosystem Functions Model (HEC‐EFM), to the Bill Williams River in southwestern USA to estimate areas suitable for recruitment of riparian tree seedlings in the context of managing flow releases from a large dam for riparian restoration. Ecological variables in the model included timing of seed dispersal, tolerable rates of flow recession, and tolerable duration of inundation following germination and early seedling establishment for native Fremont cottonwood and Goodding's willow, and non‐native tamarisk. Hydrological variables included peak flow timing, rate of flow recession following the peak, and duration of inundation. A one‐dimensional hydraulic model was applied to estimate stage‐discharge relationships along ~58 river kilometres. We then used HEC‐EFM to apply relationships between seedling ecology and streamflow to link hydrological dynamics with ecological response. We developed and validated HEC‐EFM based on an examination of seedling recruitment following an experimental flow release from Alamo Dam in spring 2006. The model predicted the largest area of potential recruitment for cottonwood (280–481 ha), with smaller areas predicted for willow (174–188 ha) and tamarisk (59–60 ha). Correlations between observed and predicted patches with successful seedling recruitment for areas within 40 m of the main channel ranged from 0.66 to 0.94. Finally, we examined arrays of hydrographs to identify which are most conducive to seedling recruitment along the river, given different combinations of peak flow, recession rate, and water volume released. Similar application of this model could be useful for informing reservoir management in the context of riparian restoration along other rivers facing similar challenges.
Increased lipopolysaccharide content is positively correlated with glucocorticoid receptor‐beta expression in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Wang Shui‐Bin , Chen Shi‐Ming , Zhu Ke‐Sheng , Zhou Bin , Chen Long , Zou Xiao‐Yan
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a common and frequently occurring disease of the upper respiratory tract. The nasal instillation of the Gram‐negative (G−) bacterial product lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can induce not only acute sinusitis but also the development of CRSwNP in animal models. Nevertheless, the expression and distribution of LPS in patients with CRSwNP have not been investigated. And the study was to investigate the expression of LPS and its relationship with glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) in CRSwNP.

Methods

Multiple methods, including bacterial culture and immunohistochemistry, were used to detect and analyze nasal bacteria, plasma LPS content, and the levels of LPS and GR‐α/β, cluster of differentiation 68 (CD68), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) expression, as well as their relationship in CRSwNP.

Results

The number of G− bacteria and Escherichia coli (E. coli) was not significantly different between CRSwNP subjects and the controls. However, the positive rate of LPS was much higher than that of E. coli in CRSwNP subjects and was significantly higher in noneosinophilic CRSwNP subjects than in eosinophilic CRSwNP subjects. Moreover, the LPS levels were positively correlated with GR‐β but not GR‐α expression in CRSwNP. Immunofluorescence assays showed that LPS was mainly detected in CD68+ macrophages and MPO+ neutrophils, in addition to histiocytes, in CRSwNP.

Conclusions

Persistent LPS in CRSwNP can lead to unresolved mucosal inflammation, eventually leading to tissue remodeling and the development of CRSwNP. Our findings suggest that increased LPS content and possible resistance to glucocorticoids may be one of the important pathogenic mechanisms of G− bacteria in CRSwNP.
What matters for finance‐growth nexus? A critical survey of macroeconomic stability, institutions, financial and economic development
Authors: Ehigiamusoe Kizito Uyi , Samsurijan Mohamad Shaharudin
Published: September 2020

This paper analyses the variables that moderate the impact of financial development on economic growth based on theoretical and empirical evidences. We show that financial and economic development, institutions and macroeconomic stability are the fundamental variables that moderate the finance‐growth nexus. Specifically, higher levels of financial and economic development, institutional quality and macroeconomic stability promote the impact of financial development on economic growth, while lower levels of these variables could have the opposite effect. We also show that too much finance is deleterious to economic growth, suggesting the existence of a threshold level of financial development beyond which further finance inhibits, rather than enhances growth. The economic implication of this study is that a stable macroeconomic environment, higher level of institutional quality, optimum financial and economic development are necessary conditions for finance to accelerate growth. Hence, countries that want to promote economic growth through the financial sector should give adequate priority to these variables.