bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abundance decline in the avifauna of the European Union reveals cross‐continental similarities in biodiversity change
Authors: Burns Fiona , Eaton Mark A. , Burfield Ian J. , Klvaňová Alena , Šilarová Eva , Staneva Anna , Gregory Richard D.
Published: November 2021

Although global assessments provide evidence of biodiversity decline, some have questioned the strength of the evidence, with local assemblage studies often showing a more balanced picture of biodiversity change. The multifaceted nature of biodiversity and imperfect monitoring datasets may partially explain these findings. Here, using an extensive dataset, we find significant biodiversity loss in the native avifauna of the European Union (EU). We estimate a decline of 17–19% in the overall breeding bird abundance since 1980: a loss of 560–620 million individual birds. Both total and proportional declines in bird numbers are high among species associated with agricultural land. The distribution of species’ population growth rates (ln) is centered close to zero, with numerical decline driven by substantial losses in abundant species. Our work supports previous assessments indicating substantial recent biodiversity loss and calls to reduce the threat of extinctions and restore species’ abundances, for the sake of nature and people.
Winter coexistence in herbivorous waterbirds: Niche differentiation in a floodplain, Poyang Lake, China
Authors: Bai Junpeng , Zhang Huan , Zhou Hongkang , Li Shu , Gao Bin , Chen Peng , Ma Long , Xu Zhifeng , Zhang Zhen , Xu Changxin , Ruan Luzhang , Ge Gang
Published: November 2021

The classical niche theory supports the idea that stable coexistence requires ecological differences between closely related species. However, information on waterbirds coexistence in the entirely landlocked freshwater system of Poyang Lake is not well understood, especially when the available biomass of their food in the area decreases. In this study, we tested the ecological segregation mechanisms in the 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 wintering periods among eight herbivorous waterbirds (including the Siberian crane Grus leucogeranus, hooded crane Grus monacha, white‐naped crane Grus vipio, common crane Grus grus, greater white‐fronted goose Anser albifrons, bean goose Anser fabalis, swan goose Anser cygnoides, and tundra swan Cygnus columbianus) at Poyang Lake. Using field observations and species niche and foraging habitat selection models, we investigated the abundance, distribution, and food sources of these eight waterbird species to quantify and compare their habitat use and ecological niches. Our results showed that niche segregation among the waterbirds, with respect to food types, time, and spatial location, allow them to coexist and use similar resources. The water level gradually receded in the sub‐lakes of the Poyang Lake, which could provide food sources and various habitats for wintering herbivorous waterbirds to coexist. We demonstrated that the differences in habitat use could mitigate interspecific competition, which may explain the mechanism whereby waterbirds of Poyang Lake coexist during the wintering period, despite considerable overlap in the dietary niches of herbivorous waterbirds.
Putting the past into action: How historical narratives shape participation in collective action
Authors: Freel Samuel H. , Bilali Rezarta
Published: November 2021

Why do some people perceive more injustice, feel more anger, or hold higher collective efficacy beliefs, and thereby are readier to engage in collective action than others? Our understanding of collective action is incomplete without a better understanding of what shapes variation in its antecedents. In this article, we highlight and elaborate historical narratives’ role in driving engagement in collective action. By integrating research and theory on historical narratives and collective action, we propose a theoretical model specifying historical narratives’ impact on three main predictors of collective action—perceived injustice, group efficacy beliefs, and group identity—as well as on forms of collective action. We elaborate on how different dimensions of historical narratives (e.g., historical trajectories, historical attributions) influence each antecedent of collective action and shape action choice. This article contributes to literature by establishing a theoretical basis that explains how historical narratives can either impede or foster collective action tendencies.
A Reliable Electrochemical Sensor Based on Functionalized Magnetite Nanoparticles for Over‐the‐counter Allergy Medication Abuse Sensing in Biological Fluids
Authors: Marzouk Hoda M. , Ibrahim Engy A. , Hegazy Maha A. , Saad Samah S.
Published: November 2021

Diphenhydramine (DIPH) has become one of the world‘s most widely abused over‐the‐counter medications. In addition to relieving allergy symptoms, it is also recognized for causing elevated energy and mild euphoric effects. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently warned about serious problems at high doses including heart problems, seizures, coma or even death among addicted teenagers. Herein, a simple, cost‐effective, and reliable nanocomposite based electrochemical sensor was designed for DIPH quantification in biological fluids. Introducing the functionalized Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) into the inner‐filling solution and the PVC‐based ion sensing membrane has been employed and compared to the classical potentiometric approach. The nanoparticles were incorporated to endorse in situ cooperative ion‐pairing interaction between the ionophore and DIPH, and to improve the selectivity and detection limit (9.5×10−8 M). Nernstian potentiometric response was achieved for DIPH over the concentration range of 1.0×10−7 to 1.0×10−2 M with a slope of 59.0±0.2 mV/decade. Inherent merits of the proposed sensor include fast response time (6 s), superior stability (60 days) with higher sensitivity and selectivity towards DIPH without interference from co‐formulated drugs and several ions commonly found in biological matrices. The proposed sensor was successfully applied to the potentiometric determination of DIPH in different biological fluids (plasma and human milk) with an average recovery of 99.06±1.95 % and 100.34±1.92 %, respectively. As a consequence, the developed ISE might be the ideal choice for in‐line DIPH measurements in plasma samples to identify overdose ingestion and its related symptoms, as well as for quality‐control laboratories without prior treatments.
An Aptasensing Strategy Using the Phosphatase‐mimic Nanozyme and pH Meter as Signal Readout
Authors: Shang Xudong , Yu Jingyuan , Wang Chang , Du Yan
Published: November 2021

The demand for point‐of‐care testing (POCT) is growing dramatically, especially for district where health facilities are poorly staffed, poorly skilled and ill‐equipped. As a commercialized portable device, pH meters can be used for detection of various targets, relying on bioactive enzymes. The nanozymes, as the alternative of the natural enzymes, have rarely been used for pH‐metric POCT strategies. Herein, we developed an ultrasensitive pH‐metric sandwich‐type aptasensor based on the CeO2 nanorods (CeO2 NRs) as phosphatase‐mimic and sodium monofluorophosphate (MFP) as catalytic substrate. Under optimal conditions, such strategy yields a detection limit of 1.17 nM with eligible selectivity for detecting thrombin.
Development of comprehensive fire and explosion risk assessment on coal reclaim tunnel using Monte Carlo simulation and risk matrix method
Authors: Widodo Nuhindro Priagung , Permadi Dimas Agung , Ihsan Ahmad , Kusuma Ginting Jalu
Published: November 2021

The new comprehensive fire and explosion risk assessment of coal reclaim tunnel (CRT), by applying Monte Carlo simulation to address the probability distribution of risk fire and explosion factor, and the risk matrix analysis as a method to classify the total risk rating obtained from Monte Carlo simulation, has been proposed in the present research. Two CRT facilities, that is A and B, which differentiate by the locations have been analyzed using the proposed method. The result shows that CRT A is classified as extreme risk level, and CRT B is divided into two groups, which classified as high‐risk level with cumulative probability of 81.73% and as moderate risk level with cumulative probability of 18.27%. Because they situated on the extreme risk and high‐risk level, the risks are classified in unacceptable risk level. After simulating with several preventive actions, the result shows that the risks have been lowered into acceptable risk level, with a 100% probability of moderate‐risk level. A sensitivity analysis for the CRT A and B reveals that among 49 factors identified, the 4 (four) most influential factors for the fire and explosion risk are the ventilation system, the oxygen concentration, a coal spontaneous combustion, and the monitoring facilities.
Simulation‐supported characterization of 3D‐printed biodegradable structures
Authors: Schirmer Richard Wolfgang , Abendroth Martin , Roth Stephan , Kühnel Lisa , Zeidler Henning , Kiefer Bjoern
Published: November 2021

In this article, a proof‐of‐concept study is presented, in which in‐situ full‐field deformation measurements via digital image correlation, finite element analysis, and nonlinear optimization techniques are combined to characterize the heterogeneous structural behavior of a bio‐based material 3D‐printed via binder jetting. The special features of this composite material are its biodegradability and its easy manufacturability using conventional 3D printers. The binder‐jetting process enables innovative applications such as additively manufactured, highly customized, recyclable, or compostable packaging solutions. Compared to other 3D printing techniques, it is relatively fast and inexpensive and can make use of raw material powders that are by‐products of the food or other industries. As an initial step towards gaining a simulation‐supported understanding of the complex process‐structure‐property relations, a first quantitative assessment of the effective behavior of a bio‐based binder‐jetted material is conducted under the following operating assumptions: (i) Its mechanical response can be described by means of a nonlinear elasto‐plastic constitutive law, enriched by a cohesive damage model capturing failure on the structural level, (ii) established mechanical tests on a 3D‐printed component, involving standardized sample geometries, and optical measurements, should yield sufficient information to allow the identification of the corresponding material parameters. First, experimental results of optically monitored four‐point bending tests, with varying alignments of loading axes and printing directions, are presented in detail. Then the proposed parameter identification strategy is explained and its capabilities and limitations, as made evident from quantitative case studies based on the measured structural response data, are thoroughly discussed.
Defining the Huangcaopo complex and gabbroic magmatism in the northern Harlik Mountains (NW China): Late Cambrian to latest Permian accretionary growth of the East Junggar Arc?
Authors: Li Liang , Xiao Wenjiao , Windley Brian F. , Mao Qigui , Gan Jingmin , Jia Xiaoliang , Yang He , Sang Miao
Published: November 2021

The Kelameili Ocean was one branch of the Palaeo‐Asian Ocean, the initiation and closure history of which remains elusive. Consequently, they hamper our understanding of the accretionary evolution of the southern Altaids. In this paper, we carried out field mapping and also geochronological and geochemical analyses on the Huangcaopo Group in the northern Harlik Mountains, NW China. Field investigation revealed that “block‐in‐matrix” structure develops with blocks of andesite, limestone, sandstone, and gabbro in matrices of turbidites. Combined with our recent work, our field investigation indicates that the Huangcaopo Group is the southern extension of the Kelameili accretionary complex. A gabbro block (19HAM057) was dated at 500 ± 4 Ma, its geochemical affinity was defined to be similar to arc magmatic rocks. Magmatisms represented by two gabbroic intrusions (19HAM057‐2 and 19HAM048) were dated at the latest Devonian (360 ± 5 Ma) and the latest Carboniferous (299 ± 4 Ma), respectively. Their geochemistry displays enrichments in light rare earth elements (LREE) and large ion lithophile elements (LILE), but depletions in high field strength elements (HFSE, especially Nb and Ta). And a younger gabbroic intrusion (19HAM052) yielded crystallization age of the latest Permian (254 ± 3 Ma), and its geochemistry also shows affinity to arc magmatism. The magmatism represented by the gabbro block (19HAM057) was coeval with the Zhaheba‐Aermantai ophiolite, indicating that it was the product of incipient arc magmatism following subduction initiation in the Kelameili branch of the Palaeo‐Asian Ocean. However, two episodes of gabbroic magmas (19HAM057‐2 and 19HAM048) that intruded the Kelameili accretionary complex from the latest Devonian to latest Carboniferous indicate southward rollback of the subducting Kelameili oceanic lithosphere and resulted in the development of a growing arc. Meanwhile, the youngest gabbroic intrusion (19HAM052) suggests that northward subduction of the Kelameili oceanic lithosphere may have at least lasted to the latest Permian, indicating that the closure of the Kelameili Ocean might have been later than the latest Permian, most likely in the early Triassic. Our new data provide further constraints on the initiation and closure history of the Kelameili Ocean, which shed light on the accretionary evolution of the Altaids.
Early Jurassic granodiorite‐monzogranite‐granite suite in the Zhangguangcai Range, NE China: Implications for melting of newly accreted arc crust
Authors: Wang Wenbao , Chen Guihu , Wang Cunzhu , Zhu Renzhi , Chen Jingwen , Ren Long , Zheng Dahe
Published: November 2021

High‐K calc‐alkaline granitoids play a key role in understanding the formation and evolution of the continental crust. Herein, we present new laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry zircon U–Pb and Lu–Hf isotopic, whole‐rock geochemical and Sr–Nd isotopic data of early Jurassic high‐K calc‐alkaline granitoids in the Zhanggunagcai Range, NE China. In situ zircon U–Pb dating shows that the granodiorite‐monzogranite‐granite (GMG) suite was emplaced at ca. 192–187 Ma. They are high‐K calc‐alkaline and weakly peraluminous, similar to the geochemical characteristics of I‐type granites. The GMG suite has lower bulk‐rock initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios of 0.7037–0.7042, slightly positive εNd(t) values of +1.10 to +1.87 and highly positive zircon εHf(t) values of +5.3 to +10.9. This result suggests a major contribution of juvenile crust to the magma source. The tetrad rare earth element patterns and highly negative Eu anomalies of samples with high SiO2 contents indicate that fractional crystallization plays an important role in the genesis. Together with data in the literature, we infer that the early Jurassic granitic rocks have been formed by partial melting of juvenile arc crust associated with the westward subduction of the Paleo‐Pacific Plate.
A Bifunctional B,N‐Based Asymmetric Catalytic Nitrostyrene‐Michael Addition Acting through a 10‐Membered Ring Cyclic Transition State
Authors: Du Yihao , Sari Ozlem , Erdem Safiye S. , Whiting Andrew
Published: November 2021

The B,N‐bifunctional catalyst homoboroproline has been applied to a catalytic asymmetric nitroalkene‐Michael addition to β‐nitrostyrene analogues, showing broad substrate tolerance, high conversions and moderate to good asymmetric induction. The ability of homoboroproline to act as an efficient catalyst based on enamine‐formation of the secondary amine, coupled with intramolecular Lewis‐acid chelation of the nitro function, in a non‐FLP manner, to effect efficient and enantioselective catalysis via a proposed large 10‐membered ring transition state is remarkable and reinforced by theoretical calculations.
High‐performance optical noncontact controlling system based on broadband PtTex/Si heterojunction photodetectors for human–machine interaction
Authors: Li Zhexin , Ran Wenhao , Yan Yongxu , Li Linlin , Lou Zheng , Shen Guozhen
Published: November 2021

Noncontact interaction systems have attracted considerable research attention in recent years because of convenient operation, sterility, and injury prevention. However, the insufficient sensing distance and weak robustness of noncontact interaction systems for complex environments limit their practical applications. Here, we designed an integrated optical noncontact controlling system (ONCS) based on PtTex/Si optoelectronic heterojunction array. Broadband sensitive photoresponse is realized at zero bias voltage, with excellent detectivity and responsivity, boosting the noncontact sensing distance to at least 150 mm. Consequently, the system can perform noncontact detection, encoding, and control by recognizing shadow‐induced spatiotemporal sequence changes in heterojunction array photocurrents. As a proof of concept, different interactive functions have been demonstrated with good accuracy and robustness by encoding finger movement above the ONCS. This study provides a new perspective for constructing high‐performance noncontact interaction systems.

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A wide‐field microscope utilizing two cellphones for health‐care applications
Authors: Yu Zhenfang , Li Yunfei , Geng Dongxian , Wu Pinghui
Published: November 2021

In this report, we report a wide field‐of‐view (FOV) bright field (BF) microscope with compact and portable optical components, mechanically attached to the existing camera unit of the cellphone. A white screen displayed on a cellphone as the illumination source to pump the sample of interest uniformly for the purpose of the reduction in assembly complexity and alignment. It offers a large FOV of 4.36 × 3.27 mm without digital zoom and a spatial resolution of 1.5 μm. Furthermore, we also have demonstrated the potential application for diseases diagnosis and screening by imaging malaria‐infected blood sample and iron deficiency anemia blood sample in resource‐constrained settings where mobile phone infrastructure is already ubiquitous but microscope is notoriously scarce.
Post‐CEO retirement appointments and financial accounting—Evidence from CEO turnovers
Authors: Brown Kareen , Ho Nam , Pacharn Parunchana
Published: November 2021

Prior research has shown that when boards seek to appoint CEOs as outside directors, the director labor market rewards CEOs' accounting performance. This study examines whether the external labor market's assessment of the accounting performance is moderated by CEOs' past exercise of financial reporting discretion in the form of accruals and real earnings management and financial statement readability. Our results show a positive association between post‐CEO board opportunities and within‐GAAP accruals management as well as to more readable financial statements. Earnings restatements are associated with fewer board positions and director pay. However, the director labor market appears to punish R&D expenditure above the industry median, suggesting that boards view overinvestment as a risky avenue for growth. Finally, the results suggest that for CEOs with planned retirement, the director labor market provides some mitigating effect on the horizon problem.
Methionine affects the expression of pluripotency genes and protein levels associated with methionine metabolism in adult, fetal, and cancer stem cells
Authors: Altundag Özlem , Canpinar Hande , Çelebi‐Saltik Betül
Published: November 2021

Intracellular and extracellular regulatory factors promote the potency and self‐renewal property of stem cells. Methionine is fundamental for protein synthesis and regulation of methylation reactions. Specifically, methionine metabolism in embryonic and fetal development processes regulates gene expression profile/epigenetic identity of stem cells to achieve pluripotency and cellular functions. We aimed to reveal the differences in methionine metabolism of bone marrow (BM)‐mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), umbilical cord blood (UCB)‐MSCs, and cancer stem cells (CSCs), which reflect different metabolic profiles and developmental stages of stem cells. UCB‐MSC, BM‐MSCs, and breast CSCs were treated with different doses (0, 10, 25, 50, and 100 µM) of l‐methionine. Cell surface marker and cell cycle assessment were performed by flow cytometry. Changes in gene expressions (OCT3/4, NANOG, DMNT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B, MAT2A, and MAT2B) with methionine supplementation were examined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and the changes in histone methylation (H3K4me3, H3K27me3) levels were demonstrated by western blot analysis. S‐adenosylmethionine//S‐adenosylhomocysteine (SAM/SAH) levels were evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Cells that were exposed to different concentrations of l‐methionine, were mostly arrested in the G0/G1 phase for each stem cell group. It was evaluated that BM‐MSCs increased all gene expressions in the culture medium‐containing 100 µM methionine, in addition to SAM/SAH levels. On the other hand, UCB‐MSCs were found to increase OCT3/4, NANOG, and DNMT1 gene expressions and decrease MAT2A and MAT2B expressions in the culture medium containing 10 µM methionine. Moreover, an increase was observed in the He3K4me3 methylation profile. In addition, OCT3/4, NANOG, DNMT1, and MAT2B gene expressions in CSCs increased starting from the addition of 25 µM methionine. An increase was determined in H3K4me3 protein expression at 50 and 100 µM methionine‐supplemented culture condition. This study demonstrates that methionine plays a critical role in metabolism and epigenetic regulation in different stem cell groups.
Analgesic effects and arthritic changes following tramadol administration in a rat hip osteoarthritis model
Authors: Kanno Keijiro , Suzuki‐Narita Miyako , Kawarai Yuya , Hagiwara Shigeo , Yoh Satoshi , Nakamura Junichi , Orita Sumihisa , Inage Kazuhide , Suzuki Takane , Ohtori Seiji
Published: November 2021

We investigated the analgesic effects of tramadol and the arthritic changes following tramadol administration in the rat hip osteoarthritis (OA) model using mono‐iodoacetate (MIA). The right hip joints of male Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 5 rats/group) in the Sham group were injected with 25 μl of sterile saline and 1% of fluorogold (FG) retrograde neurotracer. In the MIA + Vehicle and MIA + Tramadol groups, FG and 25 μl of sterile saline with 0.5 mg of MIA were injected into the right hip joint. The MIA + Vehicle and MIA + Tramadol groups were administered daily for 4 weeks, either sterile saline (10 mg/kg, intraperitoneal [i.p.]) or tramadol (10 mg/kg, i.p.). We assessed hyperalgesia every week after MIA administration. Histopathological changes and immunoreactive neurons for calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) were evaluated after 4 weeks of treatment. MIA injection into the hip joint led to mechanical hyperalgesia (p < 0.01), which was significantly reduced by tramadol administration (p < 0.01). Furthermore, daily i.p injection of tramadol significantly suppressed CGRP expression in DRG (p < 0.0001). MIA + Vehicle and MIA + Tramadol groups showed significant cartilage reduction and degeneration compared to the Sham group (p < 0.0001). Interestingly, OA changes significantly progressed in the MIA + Tramadol group compared to the MIA + Vehicle group (p < 0.0001).
Detection of antimicrobial resistance genes in urban air
Authors: Becsei Ágnes , Solymosi Norbert , Csabai István , Magyar Donát
Published: November 2021

To understand antibiotic resistance in pathogenic bacteria, we need to monitor environmental microbes as reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs). These bacteria are present in the air and can be investigated with the whole metagenome shotgun sequencing approach. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of a method for metagenomic analysis of microbial composition and ARGs in the outdoor air. Air samples were collected with a Harvard impactor in the PM10 range at 50 m from a hospital in Budapest. From the DNA yielded from samples of PM10 fraction single‐end reads were generated with an Ion Torrent sequencer. During the metagenomic analysis, reads were classified taxonomically. The core bacteriome was defined. Reads were assembled to contigs and the ARG content was analyzed. The dominant genera in the core bacteriome were Bacillus, Acinetobacter, Leclercia and Paenibacillus. Among the identified ARGs best hits were vanRA, Bla1, mphL, Escherichia coli EF‐Tu mutants conferring resistance to pulvomycin; BcI, FosB, and mphM. Despite the low DNA content of the samples of PM10 fraction, the number of detected airborne ARGs was surprisingly high.
Bilateral free flap breast reconstruction using venous cross‐over bypass to contralateral internal mammary artery for salvaging thrombosed arterial anastomosis in unilateral repeated irradiation of the breast: A case report
Authors: Cai Aijia , Geierlehner Alexander , Arkudas Andreas , Horch Raymund E.
Published: November 2021

Adjuvant radiotherapy in breast cancer patients might enhance complications after autologous breast reconstruction, including thrombosis of the internal mammary artery (IMA) precluding its use as recipient vessel. This case report shows a salvage procedure for thrombosis of the IMA during bilateral autologous breast reconstruction in a 51‐year‐old patient who had undergone repeated irradiation of the chest wall after Hodgkin's disease and recurrent breast carcinoma of the right side. After mastectomy of the right breast and prophylactic mastectomy of the left breast, the patient desired breast reconstruction with autologous tissue. During simultaneous bilateral breast reconstruction using two deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps anastomosed to the left and right inframammary vessels, arterial anastomosis to the right IMA was not feasible due to arterial thrombosis. A salvage procedure using an interpositional cephalic vein graft as a crossover bypass and a subcutaneous presternal tunnel was used. The inferior epigastric artery of the right DIEP flap was anastomosed to the venous bypass, which was anastomosed to the contralateral IMA. Both flaps healed without any complications during the postoperative course and follow up of 6 months. The presented case shows the feasibility of a cross‐over venous bypass procedure during bilateral breast reconstruction as salvage maneuver for the arterial anastomosis after repeated radiation of the unilateral breast.
Long‐term outcomes of transobturator suburethral tapes for female stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Sabadell Jordi , Montero‐Armengol Anabel , Salicrú Sabina , Catalán‐Martínez Marina , Gil‐Moreno Antonio , Poza Jose L.
Published: November 2021

Aims

The aim is to evaluate long‐term effectiveness and safety of transobturator midurethral slings (TO‐MUS) for treating female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Possible risk factors for failure and complications are also evaluated.

Methods

A descriptive retrospective study was performed among women with SUI treated at a tertiary urogynecology unit between January 2004 and December 2006. Women with stress‐predominant mixed urinary incontinence or with associated pelvic organ prolapse were also included. Postoperative follow‐up was performed at 1, 6, and 12 months and yearly thereafter. Outcomes were classified as cured, improved or failed.

Results

Of 896 women operated on over the study period, 565 were suitable for the analysis. Of them, 327 women completed the 5‐year, 225 the 7‐year, and 172 the 10‐year follow‐up periods. Success rates were 77.6%, 73.8%, and 73.2% at 5, 7, and 10 years, respectively. On multivariate Cox regression models age, body mass index, and previous incontinence surgery were related to failure. Complications of any type were described in 24.9% of patients, although most of them were mild. Only concomitant prolapse surgery was related to intraoperative and peroperative complications and the inside‐out route to an increased odds of groin pain (odds ratio = 4.0).

Conclusions

This study showed that TO‐MUS is an effective and safe procedure in the long‐term. The expected outcomes and possible side effects profile should be discussed in detail during the counseling process before opting for a treatment option.
Cardiac decompensation and promiscuous prenylation of small GTPases in cardiomyocytes in response to local mevalonate pathway disruption†
Authors: Essandoh Kobina , Auchus Richard J , Brody Matthew J
Published: November 2021

Investigations of major mevalonate pathway enzymes have demonstrated the importance of local isoprenoid synthesis in cardiac homeostasis. Farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FPPS) synthesizes isoprenoid precursors needed for cholesterol biosynthesis and protein prenylation. Wang, Zhang, Chen et al, in a recently published article in The Journal of Pathology, elegantly elucidated the pathological outcomes of FPPS deficiency in cardiomyocytes, which paradoxically resulted in increased prenylation of the small GTPases Ras and Rheb. Cardiomyocyte FPPS depletion caused severe dilated cardiomyopathy that was associated with enhanced GTP‐loading and abundance of Ras and Rheb in lipidated protein‐enriched cardiac fractions and robust activation of downstream hypertrophic ERK1/2 and mTOR signaling pathways. Cardiomyopathy and activation of ERK1/2 and mTOR caused by loss of FPPS were ameliorated by inhibition of farnesyltransferase, suggesting that impairment of FPPS activity results in promiscuous activation of Ras and Rheb through non‐canonical actions of farnesyltransferase. Here, we discuss the findings and adaptive signaling mechanisms in response to disruption of local cardiomyocyte mevalonate pathway activity, highlighting how alteration in a key branch point in the mevalonate pathway affects cardiac biology and function and perturbs protein prenylation, which might unveil novel strategies and intricacies of targeting the mevalonate pathway to treat cardiovascular diseases. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Desired properties and corresponding improvement measures of electrospun nanofibers for membrane distillation, reinforcement, and self‐healing applications
Authors: Xia Weihai , Peng Guangjian , Hu Yahao , Dou Guijing
Published: November 2021

Electrospun nanofibers have promising properties and serve an important role in various applications ranging from biomedical engineering to mechanical engineering. Although electrospun nanofibers are not used worldwide, the limited research conducted thus far provides a rudimentary understanding of nanofibers and explores the potential areas that have attracted attention for commercialization. However, the lack of a comprehensive understanding of the properties of nanofibers in various applications severely limits their functionality. This review provides clear insights into modifying the morphology of nanofibers by adjusting various parameters to meet specific application requirements. Various applications, including membrane distillation, reinforcement, and self‐healing, and the corresponding desired properties are discussed in detail. Approaches for enhancing the application‐specific properties of electrospun nanofibers are also discussed. This discussion provides significant guidance for the design of novel electrospun composites with excellent properties. Finally, the challenges in research and the opportunities for future development are presented.
Experimental tests of hybrid VTOL unmanned aerial vehicle designed for surveillance missions and operations in maritime conditions from ship‐based helipads
Authors: Ambroziak Leszek , Ciężkowski Maciej , Wolniakowski Adam , Romaniuk Sławomir , Bożko Arkadiusz , Ołdziej Daniel , Kownacki Cezary
Published: November 2021

This article presents research on a hybrid vertical take‐off and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) supported by a relative positioning system, enabling the deployment of autonomous missions from ship‐based helipads in maritime conditions. A crucial issue to be solved is ensuring precise positioning of the UAV relative to the landing pad in the take‐off and landing phases. To achieve this, an extended Kalman filter (EKF) is implemented on the UAV's onboard computer, which integrates the positioning data from the UAV's global navigation satellite system receiver and the positioning data of the landing pad broadcast by the landing pad navigation station (LNS). The EKF estimates both the absolute and relative position of the UAV, which are required for autonomous take‐off and landing on the moving landing pad. In unfavorable weather conditions, EKF also uses data from an optional local positioning system to keep the accuracy within the range 1–3 m. The research was concluded by experimental verification during a ferry cruise over the Baltic Sea. During the research, the VTOL UAV performed two fully autonomous flight missions at the range about 1 km from the moving ferry in international waters. Each of them ended with a successful landing back on the helipad with an accuracy matching its required level, which was already achieved in the previous research carried out in inland conditions. Data recorded during real flights confirm that the developed system, consisting of a hybrid VTOL UAV and a LNS, is ready to be utilized in autonomous missions at sea. Factors having a critical impact on the safety of use of the VTOL UAV in marine conditions were also identified, which were not observed during the research in inland conditions, and are related directly to turbulence around the landing pad.
Study on the enhancement of the interface performance between CF and polyimide by triethylamine grafting nano‐TiO2 particles
Authors: Jian Li
Published: November 2021

The TiO2 is grafted by triethylamine and is introduced on the surface of the carbon fiber, which improves the wettability and activity of the carbon fiber surface and at the same time strengthens the carbon fiber/polyimide composite. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed the triethylamine grafting successfully on TiO2. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) results show that when the trimethylamine concentration is 1.0%, a uniform coating is formed on the surface of the carbon fiber. The interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and interfacial shear strength (IFSS) were increased by 32% and 69%, respectively.
Lack of inhibitory effect of wood creosote on cytochrome P450‐mediated drug metabolism
Authors: Chokki Hirokazu , Nishimura Yuki , Iwase Mariko , Kurata Norimitsu , Shinya Koichiro , Tsuji Mayumi , Ito Masafumi , Asai Mutsumi , Morino Hirofumi , Miura Takanori , Shibata Takashi , Kiuchi Yuji
Published: November 2021

Aim

Wood creosote (WC), an over‐the‐counter (OTC) drug, has been used as an anti‐diarrheal agent for many years; however, its safety in combination with other drugs has not been adequately investigated. The current study was conducted to evaluate whether WC may cause drug interactions through the inhibition of cytochrome P450 (CYP).

Methods

The inhibitory effects of WC on ethoxyresorufin O‐deethylation, paclitaxel 6α‐hydroxylation, S‐warfarin 7‐hydroxylation, S‐mephenytoin 4′‐hydroxylation, bufuralol1′‐hydroxylation, and midazolam (MDZ) 1′‐hydroxylation were investigated using human liver microsomes as the marker activities for CYP1A2, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4, respectively. In addition, the effects of single and three‐day multiple treatments of WC (30 mg/kg) on CYP2C‐mediated tolbutamide (TB, 20 mg/kg) and CYP3A‐mediated MDZ (15 mg/kg) metabolism were investigated in rats in vivo.

Results

WC at clinical doses did not show a considerable inhibitory effect on any of the CYP activities examined in the in vitro study. CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 activities were inhibited by high concentrations of the WC (100 μg/mL); however, the IC50 values were approximately 70 times higher than the reported circulating levels of the main ingredients in WC. Furthermore, there were no marked changes in the pharmacokinetic parameters of TB and MDZ (area under the serum concentration–time curve, maximum serum concentrations, and elimination half‐life) after single or three‐day multiple treatments with WC.

Conclusion

These results suggest that clinical doses of WC are unlikely to cause drug interactions mediated by the inhibition of CYPs.
Special Vinberg cones and the entropy of BPS extremal black holes
Authors: Alekseevsky Dmitri V. , Marrani Alessio , Spiro Andrea
Published: November 2021

Abstract

We consider the static, spherically symmetric and asymptotically flat BPS extremal black holes in ungauged N = 2 D = 4 supergravity theories, in which the scalar manifold of the vector multiplets is homogeneous. By a result of Shmakova on the BPS attractor equations, the entropy of this kind of black holes can be expressed only in terms of their electric and magnetic charges, provided that the inverse of a certain quadratic map (uniquely determined by the prepotential of the theory) is given. This inverse was previously known just for the cases in which the scalar manifold of the theory is a homogeneous symmetric space. In this paper we use Vinberg’s theory of homogeneous cones to determine an explicit expression for such an inverse, under the assumption that the scalar manifold is homogeneous, but not necessarily symmetric. As immediate consequence, we get a formula for the entropy of BPS black holes that holds in any model of N = 2 supergravity with homogeneous scalar manifold.
Non-Gaussian stochastic gravitational waves from phase transitions
Authors: Kumar Soubhik , Sundrum Raman , Tsai Yuhsin
Published: November 2021

Abstract

Cosmological phase transitions in the primordial universe can produce anisotropic stochastic gravitational wave backgrounds (GWB), similar to the cosmic microwave background (CMB). For adiabatic perturbations, the fluctuations in GWB follow those in the CMB, but if primordial fluctuations carry an isocurvature component, this need no longer be true. It is shown that in non-minimal inflationary and reheating settings, primordial isocurvature can survive in GWB and exhibit significant non-Gaussianity (NG) in contrast to the CMB, while obeying current observational bounds. While probing such NG GWB is at best a marginal possibility at LISA, there is much greater scope at future proposed detectors such as DECIGO and BBO. It is even possible that the first observations of inflation-era NG could be made with gravitational wave detectors as opposed to the CMB or Large-Scale Structure surveys.
The Virasoro-Shapiro amplitude in AdS5 × S5 and level splitting of 10d conformal symmetry
Authors: Aprile F. , Drummond J. M. , Paul H. , Santagata M.
Published: November 2021

Abstract

The genus zero contribution to the four-point correlator $$ \left\langle {\mathcal{O}}_{p_1}{\mathcal{O}}_{p_2}{\mathcal{O}}_{p_3}{\mathcal{O}}_{p_4}\right\rangle $$

O

p
1

O

p
2

O

p
3

O

p
4

of half-BPS single-particle operators $$ {\mathcal{O}}_p $$

O
p

in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 super Yang-Mills, at strong coupling, computes the Virasoro-Shapiro amplitude of closed superstrings in AdS5× S5. Combining Mellin space techniques, the large p limit, and data about the spectrum of two-particle operators at tree level in supergravity, we design a bootstrap algorithm which heavily constrains its α′ expansion. We use crossing symmetry, polynomiality in the Mellin variables and the large p limit to stratify the Virasoro-Shapiro amplitude away from the ten-dimensional flat space limit. Then we analyse the spectrum of exchanged two-particle operators at fixed order in the α′ expansion. We impose that the ten-dimensional spin of the spectrum visible at that order is bounded above in the same way as in the flat space amplitude. This constraint determines the Virasoro-Shapiro amplitude in AdS5× S5 up to a small number of ambiguities at each order. We compute it explicitly for (α′)5,6,7,8,9. As the order of α′ grows, the ten dimensional spin grows, and the set of visible two-particle operators opens up. Operators illuminated for the first time receive a string correction to their anomalous dimensions which is uniquely determined and lifts the residual degeneracy of tree level supergravity, due to ten-dimensional conformal symmetry. We encode the lifting of the residual degeneracy in a characteristic polynomial. This object carries information about all orders in α′. It is analytic in the quantum numbers, symmetric under an AdS5 ↔ S5 exchange, and it enjoys intriguing properties, which we explain and detail in various cases.
Multipliers and Duality for Group Actions
Authors: McKee Andrew
Published: November 2021

We define operator-valued Schur and Herz–Schur multipliers in terms of module actions, and show that the standard properties of these multipliers follow from well-known facts about these module actions and duality theory for group actions. These results are applied to study the Herz–Schur multipliers of an abelian group acting on its Pontryagin dual: it is shown that a natural subset of these Herz–Schur multipliers can be identified with the classical Herz–Schur multipliers of the direct product of the group with its dual group.
Influence of additional dielectric coatings on the electrode surfaces on selected parameters of acoustic emission signals in high-voltage gas insulation systems
Authors: Dobrzycki Arkadiusz , Opydo Władysław , Zakrzewski Sebastian
Published: November 2021

The paper is devoted to the study of impact of additional dielectric coatings placed on the surface of the electrodes on the operation of a high-voltage insulation system with air as insulating medium. The study mainly focused on measurement of partial discharges (PDs) with the use of acoustic emission method. Tests were conducted in various levels of chamber pressure. Applicable parameters of recorded signals were analyzed with the use of applications developed in the environment of MATLAB software. The results of analyses clearly show that presence of additional coatings has impact on signal parameters and thus indirectly on PDs. The use of coatings reduces the duration of a single pulse (event) and increases its amplitude. Furthermore, the influence of degradation of the coating caused by individual discharges on the values of the analyzed parameters was analyzed. The study has shown, however, that this effect is negligible.
Preterm birth, stillbirth and early neonatal mortality during the Danish COVID-19 lockdown
Authors: Hedley Paula L. , Hedermann Gitte , Hagen Christian M. , Bækvad-Hansen Marie , Hjalgrim Henrik , Rostgaard Klaus , Laksafoss Anna D. , Hoffmann Steen , Jensen Jørgen Skov , Breindahl Morten , Melbye Mads , Hviid Anders , Hougaard David M. , Krebs Lone , Lausten-Thomsen Ulrik , Christiansen Michael
Published: November 2021

Using provisional or opportunistic data, three nationwide studies (The Netherlands, the USA and Denmark) have identified a reduction in preterm or extremely preterm births during periods of COVID-19 restrictions. However, none of the studies accounted for perinatal deaths. To determine whether the reduction in extremely preterm births, observed in Denmark during the COVID-19 lockdown, could be the result of an increase in perinatal deaths and to assess the impact of extended COVID-19 restrictions, we performed a nationwide Danish register-based prevalence proportion study. We examined all singleton pregnancies delivered in Denmark during the COVID-19 strict lockdown calendar periods (March 12–April 14, 2015-2020, N = 31,164 births) and the extended calendar periods of COVID-19 restrictions (February 27–September 30, 2015-2020, N = 214,862 births). The extremely preterm birth rate was reduced (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.86) during the strict lockdown period in 2020, while perinatal mortality was not significantly different. During the extended period of restrictions in 2020, the extremely preterm birth rate was marginally reduced, and a significant reduction in the stillbirth rate (OR 0.69, 0.50 to 0.95) was observed. No changes in early neonatal mortality rates were found.

Conclusion: Stillbirth and extremely preterm birth rates were reduced in Denmark during the period of COVID-19 restrictions and lockdown, respectively, suggesting that aspects of these containment and control measures confer an element of protection. The present observational study does not allow for causal inference; however, the results support the design of studies to ascertain whether behavioural or social changes for pregnant women may improve pregnancy outcomes.

What is Known:• The aetiologies of preterm birth and stillbirth are multifaceted and linked to a wide range of socio-demographic, medical, obstetric, foetal, psychosocial and environmental factors.• The COVID-19 lockdown saw a reduction in extremely preterm births in Denmark and other high-income countries. An urgent question is whether this reduction can be explained by increased perinatal mortality.

What is New:• The reduction in extremely preterm births during the Danish COVID-19 lockdown was not a consequence of increased perinatal mortality, which remained unchanged during this period.• The stillbirth rate was reduced throughout the extended period of COVID-19 restrictions.
Circular RNA screening identifies circMYLK4 as a regulator of fast/slow myofibers in porcine skeletal muscles
Authors: Cao Haigang , Liu Jieming , Du Tianning , Liu Yihao , Zhang Xiaoyu , Guo Yuan , Wang Jie , Zhou Xiaomin , Li Xiao , Yang Gongshe , Shi Xin’e
Published: November 2021

The type of myofiber is related to the quality of meat. The slow oxidized myofiber helps to increase the tenderness and juiciness of muscle. Numerous studies have shown that circRNA plays a key role in skeletal muscle development. However, the role of circRNA in porcine skeletal myofiber types is unclear. In this study, we performed high-throughput RNA sequencing to study the differential expression of circRNA in the longissimus dorsi and the soleus muscle. A total of 40,757 circRNAs were identified, of which 181 were significantly different. Interestingly, some circRNAs were involved in metabolism pathways, AMPK, FoxO, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Besides, we focused on a novel circRNA-circMYLK4. By injecting circMYLK4-AAV into piglets, we found that circMYLK4 significantly increased the mRNA and protein levels of the slow muscle marker genes. In summary, our study laid an essential foundation for further research of circRNA in myofiber type conversion and higher meat quality.
Contributing to Historical-Structural Injustice via Morally Wrong Acts
Authors: Page Jennifer M.
Published: November 2021

Alasia Nuti’s important recent book, Injustice and the Reproduction of History: Structural Inequalities, Gender and Redress (2019), makes many persuasive interventions. Nuti shows how structural injustice theory is enriched by being explicitly historical; in theorizing historical-structural injustice, she lays bare the mechanisms of how the injustices of history reproduce themselves. For Nuti, historical-structural patterns are not only shaped by habitual behaviors that are or appear to be morally permissible, but also by individual wrongdoing and wrongdoing by powerful group agents like states. In this article, I extend Nuti’s rich analysis, focusing on two questions that arise from her theory of historical-structural injustice: (1) Beyond being blameworthy for wrongful acts themselves, are culpable wrongdoers blameworthy for contributing to structural injustice? (2) Does historical moral ignorance mitigate moral responsibility for past injustice? Regarding (1), I distinguish between the local and societal structural effects of wrongdoing. Though I think this distinction is well-founded, it ultimately leads to tensions with structural injustice theory’s idea of ordinary individuals being blameless for reproducing unjust structures. Regarding (2), I argue that even though it is natural for the question of historical moral ignorance to arise in considering past wrongdoing, at least in the case of powerful group agents, we should not overlook forms of cruelty which present-day moral concepts are not needed to condemn.