bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capture probability of fishes in Central European (Hungary) wadeable lowland streams
Authors: Sály Péter , Takács Péter , Specziár András , Erős Tibor
Published: July 2021

Neglect of imperfect capture efficiency leads to biased inferences on population abundance, and correspondingly, seriously affects ecological research, bioassessment, conservation, and fisheries management. To date, many research studies have studied capture efficiency of salmonid fishes, but the catchability of fishes living in non‐salmonid streams has received much less attention. This paper estimates capture probability for seven fish species in densely vegetated lowland streams by using double‐pass electrofishing data and an N‐mixture removal model. Results show that capture probability can vary among species, and between‐stream differences have a stronger influence on the abundance and the catchability than within‐stream variability. Estimation uncertainty decreases with observed abundance, and the mean catchability tends to be the highest for the medium abundant species. These findings suggest that relative abundances from single‐pass data are biased to a species‐ and habitat‐specific degree. Therefore, plausible estimation of capture probability from double‐pass electrofishing requires data collected from numerous sites that cover a wide range of the environmental gradient in lowland streams.
Evidence shortfalls in the recommendations and guidance underpinning ecological mitigation for infrastructure developments
Authors: Hunter Sara B. , zu Ermgassen Sophus O. S. E , Downey Harriet , Griffiths Richard A. , Howe Caroline
Published: July 2021

In the United Kingdom and European Union, legal protection of species from the impacts of infrastructure development depends upon a number of ecological mitigation and compensation (EMC) measures to moderate the conflict between development and conservation. However, the scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness has not yet been comprehensively assessed.

This study compiled the measures used in practice, identified and explored the guidance that informed them and, using the Conservation Evidence database, evaluated the empirical evidence for their effectiveness.

In a sample of 50 U.K. housing applications, we identified the recommendation of 446 measures in total, comprising 65 different mitigation measures relating to eight taxa. Although most (56%) measures were justified by citing published guidance, exploration of the literature underpinning this guidance revealed that empirical evaluations of EMC measure effectiveness accounted for less than 10% of referenced texts. Citation network analysis also identified circular referencing across bat, amphibian and reptile EMC guidance. Comparison with Conservation Evidence synopses showed that over half of measures recommended in ecological reports had not been empirically evaluated, with only 13 measures assessed as beneficial.

As such, most EMC measures recommended in practice are not evidence based. The limited reference to empirical evidence in published guidance, as well as the circular referencing, suggests potential ‘evidence complacency’, in which evidence is not sought to inform recommendations. In addition, limited evidence availability indicates a thematic gap between conservation research and mitigation practice. More broadly, absence of evidence on the effectiveness of EMC measures calls into question the ability of current practice to compensate for the impact of development on protected species, thus highlighting the need to strengthen requirements for impact avoidance. Given the recent political drive to invest in infrastructure expansion, high‐quality, context‐specific evidence is urgently needed to inform decision‐making in infrastructure development.
Molecularly targeted treatment of recurrent anaplastic astrocytoma – a case report
Authors: Yalamanchi Ashna , Gill Jaya Mini , Truong Judy , Nguyen Minhdan , Carrillo Jose , Wagle Naveed , Sharma Akanksha , Kesari Santosh
Published: July 2021

High‐grade astrocytomas are malignant and aggressive, with limited treatment options. Treatment is geared not only toward increasing patient’s overall survival but also in delaying or preventing neurological disability, a cause of significant morbidity. Increasingly, targeted and customized treatment approaches, especially for recurrent disease, are being explored. Here we present a successful outcome in a young patient with rapidly progressive disease who responded to targeted treatment based on genetic sequencing and circulating tumor DNA markers, given the inaccessibility of the tissue to biopsy. Molecular testing on tissue, serum or CSF may be helpful in identifying unique targets in these complex patients.
Electrodeposited Nickel Coating Reinforced with Chlorophyll‐Reduced Graphene Oxide
Authors: Das Saptarshi , Banthia Swastika , Manna Jhimli Sarkar , Palai Debajyoti , Sengupta Srijan
Published: July 2021

Nickel composite coating reinforced with reduced graphene oxide is fabricated by pulse electrodeposition method from a surfactant‐free bath at different current densities. The reduction of graphene oxide is done by an ecofriendly method which uses chlorophyll (CHL) as the reducing agent. The CHL also acts as a stabilizer because of its amphiphilicity. Auger electron spectroscopy is used to study the surface morphology and characteristics of the deposited coatings. Nanoindentation is used to study the mechanical properties. Electrochemical techniques such as potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy are used to study the corrosion behavior in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. The coatings are found to exhibit superior hardness, Young's modulus, and corrosion resistance when compared with the pure Ni coating. Hardness and corrosion resistance are found to improve almost tenfold at optimized condition. Scanning electron microscopy of the corroded surface of the coatings provides an insight into the corrosion process.
In Situ Synchrotron Tomography of the Solidification of an Elektron 21 Mg Alloy
Authors: Tolnai Domonkos , Gavras Sarkis , Wilde Fabian , Hammel Jörg U. , Bruns Stefan
Published: July 2021

The directional solidification of an Elektron 21 magnesium alloy is investigated by in situ synchrotron radiation tomography. To visualize the solidification process, samples of Elektron 21 are first heated to 800 °C, and the melt is held at this temperature for 5 min, to ensure temperature homogeneity. Subsequently, the samples are cooled with a cooling rate of 10 K min−1, while for every 35 s, one full tomogram is acquired. The evolution of the microstructure can be followed in 3D on the reconstructed tomograms. The contrast between rare‐earth metals and Mg enables to quantitatively analyze the changes in the morphology of the dendritic structure during solidification. At the onset of the detection, the growth of secondary dendrite arms occurs, which ends at the dendritic coherency point. From this temperature on, only the coarsening and coalescence of existing dendrite arms occurs.
Rapid Prototyping of Carbon‐Bonded Alumina Filters with Flame‐Sprayed Alumina Coating for Bottom‐Teeming Steel Ingot Casting
Authors: Wetzig Tony , Neumann Marc , Schwarz Matthias , Schöttler Leandro , Abendroth Martin , Aneziris Christos G.
Published: July 2021

Although continuous casting is the state‐of‐the‐art casting method in steelmaking, ingot casting by bottom teeming has kept its relevance, for example, in the area of specialty steels. The main challenge is to meet the ever‐increasing quality requirements demanded by the customers. Regarding high‐performance steel applications, the purity with respect to the content of nonmetallic inclusions thereby is of special interest. Herein, foam templates with tailored geometry are designed and manufactured by selective laser sintering. Different coating techniques based on carbon‐bonded alumina slurries are applied to replicate foam structures with miniature cube geometry and cylindrical geometry. The techniques are evaluated regarding the porosity, pore size distribution, bulk density, mechanical strength, and shrinkage of the resulting filters. Suitable processing routes are selected to manufacture prototype batches with near‐net‐shape geometry. Finally, the feasibility of applying a flame spray coating is tested. First samples of the prototype batch are tested in industrial bottom‐teeming ingot casting.
Transition Metal‐Free, Free‐Radical Sulfenylation of the α‐C(sp3)−H Bond in Arylacetamides and Its Application Toward 2‐Thiomethyl Benzoxazoles Synthesis
Authors: Tian Shanghui , Wang Chaoli , Xia Jianhui , Wan Jie‐Ping , Liu Yunyun
Published: July 2021

This paper reports the transition metal‐free C(sp3)−H sulfenylation of arylacetamides by using thiophenols as the sulfenyl reagents. The reactions take place in the presence of only K3PO4. Control experiments indicate that the reactions proceed via a featured sulfur‐centred free radical intermediate. In addition, the synthesis of 2‐thiomethyl benzoxazoles has been realized via the p‐toluenesulfonic acid (p‐TSA) promoted annulation of the sulfenylated products.

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Statistical models of yield in on‐farm precision experimentation
Authors: Paccioretti P. , Bruno C. , Gianinni Kurina F. , Córdoba M. , Bullock D. S. , Balzarini M.
Published: July 2021

On‐farm precision experimentation (OFPE) is increasingly conducted using variable‐rate technology and precision agriculture (PA) equipment to measure the effect of changes in input application rates on yields and profits at specific fields. Classical linear regression models and new Bayesian and machine learning regressions for spatial data can be used to investigate site‐specific crop response from georeferenced data. The objective of this work was to compare statistical models that can be used by researchers analyzing OFPE data to estimate crop response and better describe its spatial within‐field variability. Three statistical models estimating the responses to N rates, seed rates, and site‐specific soil properties from eight OFPEs were compared: (a) linear regression (LR) for spatially correlated errors, (b) Bayesian regression (BR) with random site effects, and (c) random forest regression (RF) with kriged residuals. Models were adjusted to account for spatial variation in yield response, and with and without field characteristic covariates. Modeling spatial correlation and including plot covariates improved yield predictions. Differences among methods proved to be indistinguishable with respect to average explained variance, correlation between predicted and observed values, and mean square prediction errors (PEs). However, BR and RF outperformed LR in site‐specific prediction accuracy, with BR predictions having lower predictive uncertainty than RF predictions. The hierarchical Bayesian model for spatial data is a useful tool to process OFPE data, allowing direct derivation of linear coefficients and prediction uncertainty measures related to site‐specific yield responses.
Characterization of the human ABO genotypes and their association to common inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases in the UK Biobank
Authors: Höglund Julia , Karlsson Torgny , Johansson Therese , Ek Weronica E. , Johansson Åsa
Published: July 2021

The ABO gene contains three major alleles that encodes different antigens; A, B, and O, which determine an individual's blood group. Previous studies have primarily focused on identifying associations between ABO blood groups and diseases risk. Here, we sought to test for association between ABO genotypes (OO, OA, AA; OB, BB, and AB) and a large set of common inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases in UK Biobank as well as disease‐related protein biomarkers in NSPHS. We first tested for association by conducting a likelihood ratio test, testing whether ABO contributed significantly to the risk for 24 diseases, and 438 plasma proteins. For phenotypes with FDR < 0.05, we tested for pair‐wise differences between genetically determined ABO genotypes using logistic or linear regression. Our study confirmed previous findings of a strong association between ABO and cardiovascular disease, identified associations for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and provide additional evidence of significant differences between heterozygous and homozygous allele carriers for pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, but also for von Willebrand factor levels. Furthermore, the results indicated an additive effect between genotypes, even between the two most common A subgroups, A1 and A2. Additionally, we found that ABO contributed significantly to 39 plasma proteins, of which 23 have never been linked to the ABO locus before. These results show the need of incorporating ABO genotype information in the consultation and management of patients at risk, rather than classifying patients into blood groups.
Low‐level mosaicism in tuberous sclerosis complex in four unrelated patients: Comparison of clinical characteristics and diagnostic pathways
Authors: Manzanilla‐Romero Héctor Hugo , Weis Denisa , Schnaiter Simon , Rudnik‐Schöneborn Sabine
Published: July 2021

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant neurocutaneous syndrome caused by either TSC1 or TSC2 gene mutations. About 15% of TSC patients remain without genetic diagnosis by conventional analysis despite clinical evidence. It is important to identify somatic mosaics, as therapeutic options are now available in patients with TSC1 or TSC2 mutations. Here, we describe the clinical and genetic characteristics of four male TSC patients with low‐level mosaicism. Patients presented at ages between 9 months and 32 years. Clinical manifestations varied considerably and included brain lesions in all four patients, cardiac rhabdomyomas in two young patients, skin involvement in two patients, and retinal hamartomas and renal angiomyolipomas in three patients. One patient presented with epileptic seizures and psychomotor delay. Low levels of mosaicism for TSC1 or TSC2 mutation were found in different tissue samples employing next generation sequencing and multiple ligation‐dependent probe amplification. The five disease‐associated variants, including one second‐hit mutation, include three truncating mutations and one deletion in TSC2, and one truncating mutation in TSC1. Sanger sequencing, allele‐specific oligonucleotide PCR (ASO‐PCR), and droplet digital PCR were used to confirm and quantify the disclosed mutations. Genetic identification of low‐level mosaicism for TSC remains challenging but is important for optimal surveillance and management.
Interfacial Defect of Lithium Metal in Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Yang Menghao , Mo Yifei
Published: July 2021

All‐solid‐state battery with Li metal anode is a promising rechargeable battery technology with high energy density and improved safety. Currently, the application of Li metal anode is plagued by the failure at the interfaces between lithium metal and solid electrolyte (SE). However, little is known about the defects at Li–SE interfaces and their effects on Li cycling, impeding further improvement of Li metal anodes. Herein, by performing large‐scale atomistic modeling of Li metal interfaces with common SEs, we discover that lithium metal forms an interfacial defect layer of nanometer‐thin disordered lithium at the Li–SE interfaces. This interfacial defect Li layer is highly detrimental, leading to interfacial failure such as pore formation and contact loss during Li stripping. By systematically studying and comparing incoherent, coherent, and semi‐coherent Li–SE interfaces, we find that the interface with good lattice coherence has reduced Li defects at the interface and has suppressed interfacial failure during Li cycling. Our finding discovered the critical roles of atomistic lithium defects at interfaces for the interfacial failure of Li metal anode, and motivates future atomistic‐level interfacial engineering for Li metal anode in solid‐state batteries.
Rapid and Direct Photocatalytic C(sp3)−H Acylation and Arylation in Flow
Authors: Mazzarella Daniele , Pulcinella Antonio , Bovy Loïc , Broersma Rémy , Noël Timothy
Published: July 2021

Herein, we report a photocatalytic procedure that enables the acylation/arylation of unfunctionalized alkyl derivatives in flow. The method exploits the ability of the decatungstate anion to act as a hydrogen atom abstractor and produce nucleophilic carbon‐centered radicals that are intercepted by a nickel catalyst to ultimately forge C(sp3)−C(sp2) bonds. Owing to the intensified conditions in flow, the reaction time can be reduced from 12–48 hours to only 5–15 minutes. Finally, kinetic measurements highlight how the intensified conditions do not change the reaction mechanism but reliably speed up the overall process.
Revealing Ammonia Quantification Minefield in Photo/Electrocatalysis
Authors: Zhao Yunxuan , Wu Fan , Miao Yingxuan , Zhou Chao , Xu Ning , Shi Run , Wu Li‐Zhu , Tang Junwang , Zhang Tierui
Published: July 2021

Photo/electrocatalytic ammonia synthesis has recently developed fast while the ammonia yields over state‐of‐the‐art photo/electrocatalysts are still very moderate. Such low concentration of synthesized NH3 brings about a challenge to the reliable quantification of the product in photo/electrocatalysis. Notably, we found that the quantitative detection of ammonia concentration below 0.2 ppm is error‐prone, which is likely the case happening in the majority of photo/electrocatalytic NH3 synthesis, thus arising concerns about the rationality and accuracy for low‐concentration ammonia quantification in these processes. Herein, we discuss the methodology used and analyze the reliability of various detection methods for the detection of trace ammonia in aqueous media. The challenges facing the detection of low concentration of ammonia in photo/electrocatalysis can be overcome by integration with multiple detection methods. According to the data presented, we also propose an effective criterion for precise quantification of ammonia, avoiding the unreasonable comparisons in photo/electrocatalytic ammonia synthesis.
Influence of non‐metallic fraction of printed circuit boards waste on recycled polyvinyl chloride from waste wires
Authors: Grigorescu Ramona Marina , Ghioca Paul , Iancu Lorena , David Madalina Elena , Ion Rodica‐Mariana , Nicolae Cristian‐Andi , Gabor Raluca Augusta , Radu Elena Ruxandra , Ganciarov Mihaela , Spurcaciu Bogdan , Alexandrescu Elvira , Ciuprina Florin
Published: July 2021

Recycling of electric and electronic equipment is an emerging global issue in order to decrease the high amount of waste deposited on landfill or incinerated, and thus reducing the environmental pollution. Different strategies of eliminating this waste can be applied. In this paper, the non‐metallic fraction of printed circuit boards, due to the contained amount of glass fiber and rigid epoxy matrix, are considered suitable for valorization as reinforcing filler for polyvinyl chloride recovered from the insulation of equipment cables. The composites containing up to 30% filler are characterized in terms of structural, morphological, thermal, dielectric, mechanical and dynamic‐mechanical properties. Physical interactions are established between the components. Good homogeneity of composites at small dosages of filler is proven, and thus the mechanical and dynamic‐mechanical properties present increased or unchanged values compared with the polymeric matrix. At higher amounts of waste powder, some defects and agglomerates are observed and correlated with decreased values of the main tensile characteristics. Based on the physical‐mechanical and dielectric characterization, the paper shows that reinforced recycled polyvinyl chloride composites with 15%–20% non‐metallic fraction of printed circuit boards waste present suitable properties for reuse the polymer in different technical applications, mainly as insulating technical materials.
Parameterization of classical nonpolarizable force field for hydroxide toward the large‐scale molecular dynamics simulation of cellulose in pre‐cooled alkali/urea aqueous solution
Authors: Chen Yu , Fu Xiaotong , Yu Shuxian , Quan Kun , Zhao Changjun , Shao Ziqiang , Ye Dongdong , Qi Haisong , Chen Pan
Published: July 2021

The empirical force fields (FFs) based on molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studying the dissolution mechanism of cellulose in cold alkali solution suffers the lacking of reliable classical FFs for hydroxide. By a simple adjustment, we transferred one available polarizable force field (FF) of hydroxide into a nonpolarizable one and combined it with GORMOS FF. Simulation based on these parameters provided accurate hydration spheres and solution structure of hydroxide that is comparable to the polarizable one, providing an opportunity for the large‐scale MD simulation of the long cellulose chain in alkali/urea system for the study of dissolution and regeneration as well as mercerization process.
Bryde's whales in the North‐East Atlantic: New insights on site fidelity and connectivity between oceanic archipelagos
Authors: Ferreira Rita , Dinis Ana , Badenas Anja , Sambolino Annalisa , Marrero‐Pérez Jacobo , Crespo Ana , Alves Filipe
Published: July 2021

The conservation of marine megafauna presents numerous difficulties owing to their high mobility over difficult‐to‐access oceanic areas that impairs the collection of basic, but essential, biological information.

The Bryde's whale (Balaenoptera edeni) is one of the most elusive species of baleen whales, and although it is known to be a seasonal visitor to several archipelagos in Macaronesia (the Azores, Madeira, and Canaries), there are no studies regarding its occurrence or geographical connectivity in this area of the Atlantic.

A 14‐year photographic database was used to determine short‐term (intra‐seasonal) and long‐term (inter‐annual) Bryde's whale site fidelity and to estimate individual residency times in Madeira, whereas photographic catalogues from Madeira and the Canaries were compared in order to assess large‐scale movements (i.e. on the scale of hundreds of kilometres).

In Madeira, 59 individuals were identified, 27 (45.8%) of which were recaptured. Of these, 10 individuals (37.0%) presented short‐term site fidelity and 17 individuals (63.0%) presented long‐term site fidelity, with a maximum recapture interval of 12 years. Lagged identification rates showed that five individuals (SE = 2) remained in the area for 32 days (SE = 108 days) before leaving and not returning during the same year. Seven individuals were seen both in Madeira and the Canaries (catalogue comprising 51 individuals), three of which were identified multiple times in both archipelagos, with a minimum of 43 days between consecutive sightings.

This information combined with the fact that this species is commonly sighted accompanied by calves and feeding in both archipelagos highlights the ecological importance of this area for Bryde's whales. This should be taken into consideration by policymakers when implementing conservation measures, where coordination of effort among countries is needed. This study also reinforces the value of using data from platforms of opportunity and of making photographic data open access.
Labour‐saving construction of a target protein interaction network by selective culture and high‐throughput sequencing
Authors: Hu Yueheng , Yu Qi , Chen Yu , Zhang Luyao , Fu Xianrong , Ding Lian , Liu Ye , Guan Zhiyong , Fang Weimin , Chen Fadi , Song Aiping
Published: July 2021

Yeast two‐hybrid (Y2H) is a classic method of screening for protein‐protein interactions. However, the operation process is labor intensive and time consuming, and there is a high possibility of false positives and false negatives.

Combined with wet lab operation and bioinformatics analysis, we developed a novel method of Y2H library screening using Chrysanthemum morifolium CmMPK3 as an example.

The protocol can not only greatly simplify the steps of traditional Y2H library screening but also identify as many interacting proteins as possible. Furthermore, this protocol is applicable to any species, even if no genomic information is available yet.
Process Parameter Screening for the Microalga Chlamydomonas asymmetrica in Batch and Turbidostat Cultivations
Authors: Hahm Joachim , Bauer Andreas , Jung Sun‐Hwa , Zell Niklas , Boßle Fabian , Buchholz Rainer , Lindenberger Christoph
Published: July 2021

Algae offer tremendous potential for the production of various high‐value products (HVPs). Besides the light quantity and quality, factors such as temperature, medium composition, pH, and aeration are important algae‐specific process parameters that influence growth behavior and their chemical composition. Screenings for algae and their HVPs are ongoing, but the available data for their cultivability and suitability as production organisms are limited. Turbidostat processes enable a simple and fast screening for light‐specific influences, as constant biomass concentrations will result in constant self‐shading. Here, the microalgae Chlamydomonas asymmetrica was cultivated in cylindrical photobioreactor screening modules. A detailed characterization the light and temperature dependency of the organisms' HVPs is provided.
Special Mixing Behavior of Chelate‐based Ionic Liquid with Methanol
Authors: Zhang Songna , Wang Yongtao , Yao Jia , Li Haoran
Published: July 2021

Compared to the general ionic liquids (ILs), a significant deviation of the binary mixtures of 1‐decyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tri(hexafluoroacetylaceto)‐copper(II) ([C10mim][Cu(hfacac)3]) with methanol was found, indicating the way methanol interacts with ILs might be governed by the special structure of the chelating anion. IR results showed that the
(C2‐H) of 1‐decyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluoroacetylacetonate ([C10mim][hfacac]) blue‐shifted more significantly than that of [C10mim][Cu(hfacac)3], meanwhile the
(C=O) red‐shifted in [C10mim][Cu(hfacac)3], which is contrast with that in [C10mim][hfacac]. Two‐dimensional correlation analysis of the FTIR spectra indicated that the chelating cavity has little effect on the sequence of the ILs sites that interact with methanol. Combined with small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) results, the picture of mixing processes in these two systems were proposed. Methanol interacts directly with the anion followed by the cation in [C10mim][hfacac], while methanol preferentially enters the chelating cavity and enhances the packing effect in the [C10mim][Cu(hfacac)3] system.
3D Carbon Networks: Design and Applications in Sodium Ion Batteries
Authors: Yuan Guobao , Liu Dapeng , Feng Xilan , Zhang Yu
Published: July 2021

As the key component of a new generation for low‐cost energy storage systems, sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have attracted enormous attention and research due to its promising potentiality in large‐scale electrochemical energy storage. For practical application of SIBs, carbonaceous materials have been considered to be one of the best choices for electrodes in virtue of their abundant reserves, low cost, easy availability, and environmental friendliness. 3D carbon network (3D‐carbon) is of particular interests, which has displayed outstanding features, including abundant active sites, interconnected multi‐level pore structures, high electronic conductivity, and excellent mechanical stability. Herein, we review the structural advantages of 3D‐carbon and its preparation methods, and then discuss recent progress in 3D carbon materials and their composites for SIBs. The superior functionalities of 3D‐carbon are emphasized as support templates or encapsulation shell membranes. Finally, we summarize and outline the challenges and future prospects of 3D‐carbon in SIBs.
Progressive chronic SARS‐CoV‐2‐positive giant cell myoendocarditis with atrial standstill and sudden cardiac death
Authors: Blagova Olga , Ainetdinova Dilyara , Sedov Alexey , Lutokhina Yulia , Kogan Evgeniya , Kukleva Anna , Sedov Vsevolod , Zaitsev Alexander , Vasukov Sergey , Alexandrova Svetlana , Sarkisova Natalya
Published: July 2021

Giant cell myocarditis (GCM) is a rare condition. Its association with SARS‐CoV‐2 has not been described before. The 46‐year‐old female patient was admitted to the clinic on September 2020. She had 7 year adrenal insufficiency history and infarct‐like debut of myocardial disease in November 2019. After COVID‐19 in April 2020, cardiac disease progressed. The examination showed low QRS voltage, QS complexes in V1–V5 leads, atrial standstill, left ventricular systolic and restrictive dysfunction, elevated anti‐heart antibodies, and subepicardial late gadolinium enhancement by magnetic resonance imaging. Endomyocardial biopsy and pacemaker implantation were performed, but the patient died suddenly due to ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation (the resuscitation was ineffective). The autopsy revealed GCM, SARS‐CoV‐2, and Parvovirus B19 were detected in the myocardium. The role of SARS‐CoV‐2 in the pathogenesis of autoimmune myocarditis is discussed.
The association between ivabradine and adverse cardiovascular events in acute decompensated HFrEF patients
Authors: Liao Chia‐Te , Huang Jin‐Long , Liang Huai‐Wen , Chung Fa‐Po , Lee Ying‐Hsiang , Lin Po‐Lin , Chiou Wei‐Ru , Lin Wen‐Yu , Hsu Chien‐Yi , Chang Hung‐Yu
Published: July 2021

Aims

Ivabradine has been used in patients who have chronic heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and concomitant sinus heart rate ≥70 bpm. This administration for acute HFrEF remains a concern. This study used a real‐world multicentre database to investigate the effects of ivabradine among patients with acute decompensated HFrEF before discharge.

Methods and results

This study retrospectively identified patients with acute decompensated HFrEF who were administered ivabradine at discharge from two multicentre HF databases. Propensity score matching was performed to adjust for confounders. Cardiovascular mortality, all‐cause mortality, and recurrent HF rehospitalization risks were then compared between those with and without ivabradine treatment. After 1:2 propensity score matching, 876 patients (age, 60.7 ± 14.6 years; female, 23.2%; left ventricular ejection fraction, 28.2% ± 7.8%; and heart rate at discharge, 84.3 ± 13.8 bpm) were included in the final analysis, including 292 and 584 patients with and without ivabradine treatment at discharge, respectively. No significant differences were observed in baseline characteristics between the two groups. At 1 year follow‐up, patients in the ivabradine group had significantly lower heart rates (77.6 ± 14.7 vs. 81.1 ± 16.3 bpm; P = 0.005) and lower HF severity symptoms (New York Heart Association Functional class, 2.1 ± 0.7 vs. 2.3 ± 0.9; P < 0.001) than those from the non‐ivabradine group. Ivabradine users had significantly lower risks of 1 year cardiovascular mortality (5.8 vs. 12.2 per 100‐person year; P = 0.003), all‐cause mortality (7.2 vs. 14.0 per 100‐person year; P = 0.003), and total HF rehospitalization (42.3 vs. 72.6 per 100‐person year; P < 0.001) than non‐ivabradine users. Following multivariate analysis, the predischarge prescription of ivabradine remained independently associated with lower 1 year all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio, 0.45; 95% confidence interval, 0.28–0.74; P = 0.002) and cardiovascular mortality (hazard ratio, 0.41; 95% confidence interval, 0.24–0.72; P = 0.002).

Conclusions

The current study findings suggest that ivabradine treatment is associated with reduced risks of cardiovascular mortality, all‐cause mortality, and HF rehospitalization within 1 year among patients with acute decompensated HFrEF in real‐world populations.
Framework for determining the suitability of blockchain: Criteria and issues to consider
Authors: Hassija Vikas , Zeadally Sherali , Jain Ishan , Tahiliani Aman , Chamola Vinay , Gupta Shashank
Published: July 2021

Various distributed ledger technologies (DLTs), such as blockchain, have evolved significantly in recent years. These technologies provide a robust and effective solution for providing confidentiality, integrity, nonrepudiation, authentication, and transparency. While blockchain has many advantages, it has various limitations as well, such as complexity, low throughput, privacy, and so on. We discuss the issues that must be considered when deciding whether to use these technologies in a given case or not. We describe the operation of blockchain, application areas where blockchain is suitable, and those where it is not. We also discuss the applicability of other emerging DLTs, apart from blockchain technology, such as Hashgraph, Zcash, Nano coin, and IOTA.
Evolution of MEG: A first MEG‐feasible fluxgate magnetometer
Authors: Koshev Nikolay , Butorina Anna , Skidchenko Ekaterina , Kuzmichev Alexey , Ossadtchi Alexei , Ostras Maxim , Fedorov Maxim , Vetoshko Petr
Published: July 2021

In the current article, we present the first solid‐state sensor feasible for magnetoencephalography (MEG) that works at room temperature. The sensor is a fluxgate magnetometer based on yttrium‐iron garnet films (YIGM). In this feasibility study, we prove the concept of usage of the YIGM in terms of MEG by registering a simple brain induced field—the human alpha rhythm. All the experiments and results are validated with usage of another kind of high‐sensitive magnetometers—optically pumped magnetometer, which currently appears to be well‐established in terms of MEG.
Experimental investigation of heat transfer enhancement in a double pipe heat exchanger with a twisted inner pipe
Authors: Ali Mahmud H. , Jalal Rawand E.
Published: July 2021

In the present work, an experimental investigation is conducted to address the influence of inner pipe twisting on the overall performance of a double pipe heat exchanger. With the fluid to fluid heat exchange, both parallel and counter flow directions are examined as well. In addition to the original elliptical pipe, three pipes with different numbers of twisting (3, 5, and 7 twists per unit length) constructed from the elliptical pipe are considered where the heat transfer rate and pressure drop are addressed. All tests are carried out in the turbulent flow regime where the Reynolds number (Re) ranging from 5000 to 26,000 and water is used as the working medium. The obtained outcomes show that for both flow directions, there is an enhancement in the heat exchanger overall performance with all considered twisting pipes. The maximum enhancement in the Nusselt number is found to be 1.8 for the parallel flow and around 2.2 for the counter flow compared with the original pipe. The inner pipe with 7 twists, however, improves the overall performance the most, where a maximum performance enhancement factor of 1.63 and 1.9 are observed at Reynolds number of 26,000 in the parallel and counter flow configurations, respectively.
Use of the SAND balloon catheter for safe and easy laparoscopic removal of adrenal cysts
Authors: Ito Jun , Kaiho Yasuhiro , Kusumoto Hiroki , Kohada Yuki , Mikami Jotaro , Sato Makoto
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Surgical resection should be considered for giant adrenal cysts if they are functional, if malignancy cannot be ruled out, or if there is a risk of bleeding. However, preventing cyst damage, including fluid leak, and ensuring a good field of view could be challenging in laparoscopic surgery. We report on our successful use of the SAND balloon catheter in laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

Case presentation

The patient was a 40‐year‐old man with a right adrenal cyst that exhibited growth tendency. We performed laparoscopic adrenalectomy using a SAND balloon catheter through a preexisting port. Use of the catheter allowed for not only aspiration of the cyst fluid without leakage into the operative field but also gentle grasping of the cyst wall, which enabled us to easily remove the adrenal gland, including the cyst.

Conclusion

Use of the SAND balloon catheter facilitates safe and easy laparoscopic resection of giant adrenal cysts.
High spatio‐temporal resolution measurement of A1R and A2AR interactions combined with Iem‐spFRET and E‐FRET methods
Authors: Lin Yating , Wang Haoyu , Xu Jianshu , Huang Yiming , Gong Wei , Wang Qiwen , Huang Zufang , Xie Shusen , Lin Juqiang
Published: July 2021

A1R‐A2AR heterodimers regulate striatal glutamatergic neurotransmission. However, few researches about kinetics have been reported. Here, we combined Iem‐spFRET and E‐FRET to investigate the kinetics of A1R and A2AR interaction. Iem‐spFRET obtains the energy transfer efficiency of the whole cell. E‐FRET gets energy transfer efficiency with high spatial resolution, whereas, it was prone to biases because background was easily selected due to manual operation. To study the interaction with high spatio‐temporal resolution, Iem‐spFRET was used to correct the deviation of E‐FRET. In this paper, A1R and A2AR interaction was monitored, and the changes of FRET efficiency of the whole or/and partial cell membrane were described. The results showed that activation of A1R or A2AR leads to rapid aggregation, inhibition of A1R or A2AR leads to slow segregation, and the interaction is reversible. These results demonstrated that combination of Iem‐spFRET and E‐FRET could measure A1R and A2AR interaction with high spatio‐temporal resolution.
Immunological characteristics and effect of cyclosporin in patients with immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Wang Ting , He Xin , Ran Ningyuan , Liu Chunyan , Xing Limin , Wang Huaquan , Fu Rong , Shao Zonghong
Published: July 2021

Objective

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is well‐known as an antibody‐mediated autoimmune disease, and it is easy to get response but often turns to relapse or refractory. Cyclosporin is a traditional immunosuppressant and had a good effect on ITP patients. In this paper, we retrospectively analyze the immunological characteristics and therapeutic effect of cyclosporin in 220 patients with ITP.

Methods

All newly diagnosed ITP patients in the Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital from June 2018 to December 2020 were enrolled and divided into four groups according to the expression of autoantibodies and the occurrence of prodromal infection. The basic data and immune indexes of ITP patients in each group were collected. The clinical immunological characteristics of patients in each group and the therapeutic effect of cyclosporin in each group were analyzed.

Results

Multi‐autoantibody ITP patients were more likely to have low serum albumin and high gamma globulin, and the ratio of albumin to globulin decreased. In addition, the level of IgA and IgG increased and the level of complement C3 and C4 decreased more frequently than those in other groups. The number of CD3+T lymphocytes, especially CD3+CD4+T lymphocytes, decreased in ANA+ITP patients. The number of CD16+CD56+NK cells, pDC/DC ratio, and pDC/mDC ratio were higher than those in other groups. The expression of IL‐6 and the proportion of CD19+B lymphocytes increased in two groups of ITP patients with abnormal autoantibodies. The patients of pro‐infected group were more likely to suffer from coagulation disorder. After treatment with cyclosporin, the response rate increased and the 3‐month relapse rate decreased in all ITP patients, and the therapeutic effect of patients with high megakaryocyte number was significantly higher than that of patients with low megakaryocyte number. The impact factors that influence the effect of glucocorticoid and(or) IVIG were the number of CD3+CD8+T lymphocytes, CD4/CD8 cell ratio, and the number of CD19+B lymphocytes. The independent impact factor of cyclosporin therapeutic response rate was the number of CD3+T lymphocytes.

Conclusions

ITP is a heterogeneous disease, recurrence may occur during or rapidly after treatment.

Cyclosporine included treatment can improve the effective rate of ITP and

reduce the relapse rate within 3 months. The number of CD3+T lymphocytes was

the only impact factor that influence the therapeutic effect of

cyclosporin in ITP patients.
Morphology of the respiratory vasculature of the mudskipper Boleophthalmus pectinirostris (Gobiidae: Oxudercinae)
Authors: Kurita Mariko , Noma Shohei , Ishimatsu Atsushi
Published: July 2021

The gross morphology of the circulatory system in the amphibious mudskipper, Boleophthalmus pectinirostris, conforms with the typical teleost configuration, in which gills and systemic vascular beds are connected in series. However, at the microscopic level, the vasculatures of the respiratory organs, the inner epithelium of the bucco‐opercular cavity, gills and skin, all show specializations for aerial gas exchange. The epithelium of the bucco‐opercular cavity is heavily vascularized by respiratory capillaries that are derived from systemic arteries of the head, mainly branches of the hyomandibular artery and the dorsal opercular artery. The respiratory circuit of the secondary lamellae of the gills consists of 15–17 channels running in parallel, unlike the lacuna‐like blood space of aquatic fishes. The most notable specialization is found in the microcirculation of the respiratory papillae in the skin. Each respiratory papilla is supplied by an arteriole that is derived from a systemic artery, mainly the cranial artery in the head and the segmental artery in the trunk. The arteriole divides several times along its course to the apical region of a papilla, where the branches split into approximately 65 capillaries that radiate to the periphery of the papilla. The capillaries twist 5–10 times before they unite to form the venules that encircle maximally half the circumference of a papilla. A variable number of venules merge into a vein, which progressively coalesces with veins from other papillae. There is no morphological specialization that separates oxygen‐rich effluent blood of the epithelia of the bucco‐opercular cavity and the respiratory papillae of the skin from the oxygen‐poor systemic venous blood. The ecophysiological implications of these findings are discussed in relation to the environmental conditions that B. pectinirostris experience during tidal cycles in the warm months and during overwintering.
Molecularly imprinted solid‐phase extraction of Chikusetsu saponin IVa from Panacis majoris Rhizoma
Authors: Yang Yuanyuan , Sun Xuan , Hu Qiao , Yan Hao , Li Jin , Zhao Chongbo , Zuo Zhenyu
Published: July 2021

As the main active component of Panacis majoris Rhizoma, Chikusetsu saponin IVa has the activity of anti‐oxidation, anti‐inflammatory pain, and so on. Obtaining high purity Chikusetsu saponin IVa by simple purification steps is a prerequisite for its deep development. In this paper, the separation and purification of Chikusetsu saponin IVa were studied by molecular imprinting technique. By ultraviolet and visible spectrophotometry and computer molecular simulation, it was concluded that water‐soluble 3‐(2‐carboxyethyl)‐1‐vinylimidazolium bromide ionic liquid was the best functional monomer compared with acrylic acid and acrylamide. The molecularly imprinted polymers were prepared by precipitation polymerization at 60℃ with Chikusetsu saponin IVa as template molecule, 3‐(2‐carboxyethyl)‐1‐vinylimidazolium bromide as functional monomer, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as cross‐linker, 2, 2’‐azobisisobutyronitrile as initiator, and ethanol as porogen. The properties of molecularly imprinted polymers were studied by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermo‐gravimetric analysis, nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherm, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The maximum adsorption capacity was 171.33 mg/g, and the imprinting factor was 2.6. Finally, the polymers can be successfully used in the purification of Chikusetsu saponin IVa from Panacis majoris Rhizoma through a simple procedure, the content was significantly increased. The recoveries of the spiked samples for the CS‐IVa ranged from 94.05 to 99.95% with relative standard deviation values lower than 2.67%. The results showed that the polymers demonstrated good adsorption capacity for Chikusetsu saponin IVa. Meanwhile, the polymers showed great stability and reusability during the application.
Separation of chemical constituents in Bidens pilosa Linn. var. radiata Sch. Bip. by elution‐extrusion counter‐current chromatography using two new three‐phase solvent systems
Authors: Chen Zhenshan , Tian Zhenhua , Zhang Yaowen , Wang Xiaoming , Xu Jinqi , Li Yunlun , Jiang Haiqiang , Su Benzheng
Published: July 2021

Two new three‐phase solvent systems combined with elution‐extrusion counter‐current chromatography mode were used to study the chemical constituents in Bidens pilosa Linn. var. radiata Sch. Bip. The first novel solvent system consisted of n‐hexane, acetonitrile, chloroform, and water in a ratio of 5:5:1:5, which was selected for elution‐extrusion counter‐current chromatography to separate the n‐hexane extraction part. A total of six constituents were obtained from this part in the up phase as the stationary phase and the middle phase as the mobile phase. The second novel solvent system, composed of n‐hexane‐butyl acetate‐acetonitrile‐water (3:1:4:3, v/v/v/v), was used for separating ethyl acetate extract of Bidens pilosa Linn. var. radiata Sch. Bip. Eight compounds were successfully isolated using elution‐extrusion counter‐current chromatography elution‐extrusion mode. Fourteen chemical constituents were identified as 2‐β‐D‐glucopyranosytoxy‐1‐hydroxy‐5(E)‐tridecene‐7,9,11‐triyne (Y1), 3‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyloxy ‐1‐hydroxy‐6(E)‐tetradecene‐8,10,12‐triyne (Y2), 1, 2‐dihydroxy‐5(E)‐tridecene‐7,9, 11‐triyne (Y3), isorhamnetin (Y4), kaempferol (Y5), icthyothereolacetate (Y6), quercetin‐3‐O‐β‐D‐ galactopyranosyl‐7‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (W1), quercetin 3‐O‐β‐L‐rhamnopyranoside (W2), neosperidin dihydrochalcone (W3), quercetin (W4), quercetagetin‐3,6,4' ‐trimethoxyl‐ 7‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (W5), taxifolin (W6), luteolin (W7), and apigenin (W8) by spectra of 1H‐NMR and 13C‐NMR data. Among them, compounds Y1, Y2, Y3, and Y6 belong to polyacetylene compounds, and the rest were flavonoids. In addition, counter‐current chromatography has been used to separate polyacetylene compounds for the first time. All compounds in this method were isolated from Bidens pilosa Linn. var. radiata Sch. Bip. for the first time.
The atypicality of sustainable luxury products
Authors: Amatulli Cesare , De Angelis Matteo , Donato Carmela
Published: July 2021

This study tackles the issue of how consumers might perceive luxury products' sustainability‐focused communication. We compare consumers' reactions when luxury brands communicate their focus on either product sustainability or product excellence (i.e., a sustainability‐ vs. excellence‐focused communication strategy, respectively). We predict that consumers perceive the former as more atypical for a luxury brand, which renders the communication more effective at enhancing consumers' willingness to buy the brand's products. Across six experiments, we demonstrate that perceived atypicality mediates the effect of luxury product communication strategy on consumers' willingness to buy; that perceived atypicality increases willingness to buy by increasing consumers' perception about the uniqueness of the communication strategy; that the effect of perceived atypicality is stronger for consumers with a higher chronic need for uniqueness; and that the greater effectiveness of a sustainability‐focused communication strategy on atypicality and willingness to buy is peculiar to luxury products (i.e., it does not manifest for mass‐market products). From a managerial perspective, our findings demonstrate that luxury brands may innovate their communication strategies by leveraging sustainability rather than product excellence.