bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quail and rain in semiarid rangelands: Does management matter?
Authors: Ritzell Alec D. , Hernández Fidel , Edwards John T. , Montalvo Andrea , Wester David B. , Grahmann Eric D. , Rollins Dale , Stewart Kristyn G. , Smith Rachel A. , Woodard D. Abraham , Brennan Leonard A.
Published: March 2022

Rainfall is a strong driver of quail populations on southwestern rangelands and can account for a large portion (~70–95%) of the variability in regional quail production and abundance. Landowners have attempted to moderate these boom‐and‐bust fluctuations via management; however, presently it is unknown whether management can increase or stabilize quail populations in semiarid environments or whether rainfall remains as influential at small spatial extents. Our objectives were to evaluate the efficacy of management at mitigating the effects of rainfall on northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) populations on semiarid rangelands and to quantify the influence of rainfall on bobwhite density at smaller spatial extents. We conducted a study to evaluate these objectives during 2014–2020 in the Rio Grande Plains (n = 11 sites; 1,100‒6,500 ha) and Rolling Plains (n = 4 sites; 1,900‒4,000 ha) of Texas, USA. We estimated bobwhite density during late autumn (Dec‒Jan) on all sites using helicopter surveys within a distance‐sampling framework. We also obtained site‐level seasonal rainfall (Apr‒Aug) and quantified management intensity via landowner surveys and a scoring rubric to categorize sites into 3 classes (low, medium, and high management intensity). Bobwhite populations during this study experienced a boom‐bust cycle in both the Rio Grande Plains and Rolling Plains, with mean bobwhite density fluctuating considerably (0.57‒2.96 bobwhites/ha and 0.02‒2.88 bobwhites/ha, respectively). In the Rio Grande Plains, mean bobwhite density significantly increased from low to high management intensity in 2015 (1.12 ± 0.17 bobwhites/ha vs. 2.87 ± 0.39 bobwhites/ha, respectively), 2016 (1.06 ± 0.20 bobwhites/ha vs. 2.96 ± 0.36 bobwhites/ha, respectively), 2017 (0.73 ± 0.16 bobwhites/ha vs. 1.91 ± 0.32 bobwhites/ha, respectively), and 2019 (0.42 ± 0.14 bobwhites/ha vs. 1.01 ± 0.26 bobwhites/ha, respectively; P < 0.05). In addition, rainfall at the site level accounted for a low amount of the variation in bobwhite density (r2 = 0.09; P < 0.01). Similarly, in the Rolling Plains, mean bobwhite density significantly increased from low to high management intensity in 2015 (1.30 ± 0.27 bobwhites/ha vs. 2.20 ± 0.29 bobwhites/ha, respectively) and 2016 (1.26 ± 0.26 bobwhites/ha vs. 2.88 ± 0.34 bobwhites/ha, respectively; P < 0.05). Rainfall at the site level also accounted for a low amount of the variation in bobwhite density (r2 < 0.02; P = 0.82). Our findings suggest that management can increase bobwhite density beyond that of less‐managed properties but does not completely eliminate inter‐annual fluctuations in semiarid environments. In addition, rainfall appears to exert less of an influence on bobwhite density at a site level (e.g., 2,000 ha) than has been documented at a regional level (e.g., ≥8 million ha).
Modeling of the Branching Point Distribution During the Polymerization of N‐Vinylpyrrolidone
Authors: Welzel Stefan , Zander Christian , Hungenberg Klaus‐Dieter , Nieken Ulrich
Published: March 2022

To gain insights into the microstructure of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), a detailed reaction mechanism is developed, which characterizes the polymer along the property coordinate chain length, terminal double bonds (TDB), and branching points. For practical purposes, calculations with three property coordinates are unfeasible, and model reduction is needed. Here, a reduced model with only one single property coordinate without significant loss of accuracy is derived. In the first step, the coordinate TDBs are reduced by a linear relationship between TDBs and chain length. As the parameters of this relation are state dependent, they are dynamically adjusted from a parallel calculated 0D model. In a second step, the pseudodistribution approach is used to reduce the 2D distribution to chain length as the only property coordinate and calculate moments of branching points as a function of chain length. A 2D class model is set up for validation. To demonstrate the benefits of the model, the chain length distribution and moments of branching points are calculated for different average residence times and monomer concentrations in a stirred tank reactor. In a future publication, the model will be validated by experimental data in terms of chain length distribution and branching points.
Evaluation of combined late gadolinium‐enhancement and functional cardiac magnetic resonance imaging using spiral real‐time acquisition
Authors: Portmann Johannes , Wech Tobias , Eirich Philipp , Heidenreich Julius F. , Petri Nils , Petritsch Bernhard , Bley Thorsten A. , Köstler Herbert
Published: March 2022

The purpose of the current study was to implement and validate joint real‐time acquisition of functional and late gadolinium‐enhancement (LGE) cardiac magnetic resonance (MR) images during free breathing. Inversion recovery cardiac real‐time images with a temporal resolution of 50 ms were acquired using a spiral trajectory (IR‐CRISPI) with a pre‐emphasis based on the gradient system transfer function during free breathing. Functional and LGE cardiac MR images were reconstructed using a low‐rank plus sparse model. Late gadolinium‐enhancement appearance, image quality, and functional parameters of IR‐CRISPI were compared with clinical standard balanced steady‐state free precession breath‐hold techniques in 10 patients. The acquisition of IR‐CRISPI in free breathing of the entire left ventricle took 97 s on average. Bland–Altman analysis and Wilcoxon tests showed a higher artifact level for the breath‐hold technique (p = 0.003), especially for arrhythmic patients or patients with dyspnea, but an increased noise level for IR‐CRISPI of the LGE images (p = 0.01). The estimated transmural extent of the enhancement differed by not more than 25% and did not show a significant bias between the techniques (p = 0.50). The ascertained functional parameters were similar for the breath‐hold technique and IR‐CRISPI, that is, with a minor, nonsignificant (p = 0.16) mean difference of the ejection fraction of 2.3% and a 95% confidence interval from −4.8% to 9.4%. IR‐CRISPI enables joint functional and LGE imaging in free breathing with good image quality but distinctly shorter scan times in comparison with breath‐hold techniques.
Reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer copolymerization of functional myrcene with styrene
Authors: Xu Xueqin , Chen Zhiyan , Zhou Yun , Jia Xiaoyu , Gong Dirong
Published: March 2022

The introduction of functionality is essential to the surface, bulk and mechanical properties of poly(diene‐styrene). In this work, copolymerizations of hydroxyl (My‐OH) and epoxide (My‐EPO) functionalized myrcenes with styrene by a solvent‐free reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer polymerization route have been performed. In both cases, the copolymerizations were processed with functional diene preferentially inserted (rMy‐OH/rSt, 1.28 ± 0.02/0.81 ± 0.02; rMy‐EPO/rSt, 1.15 ± 0.01/0.91 ± 0.02), providing a series of composition drifted copolymers with controlled functionality degree and molecular weight by feeding ratios of comonomer and chain transfer agent. The copolymers have remarkably low contact angles with water, an indication of potentially good miscibility with polar additives. In addition, the in‐chain included hydroxyl and epoxide groups could further provide a very versatile ‘intermediate’ that can be used to prepare various functional polymers, block and graft copolymers. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry
Carrier‐selective contacts using metal compounds for crystalline silicon solar cells
Authors: Ibarra Michel Jesus , Dréon Julie , Boccard Mathieu , Bullock James , Macco Bart
Published: March 2022

Solar cells rely on the efficient generation of electrons and holes and the subsequent collection of these photoexcited charge carriers at spatially separated electrodes. High wafer quality is now commonplace for crystalline silicon (c‐Si) based solar cells, meaning that the cell's efficiency potential is largely dictated by the effectiveness of its carrier‐selective contacts. The majority of contacts currently employed in industrial production are based on highly doped‐silicon, which can introduce negative side‐effects including Auger recombination or parasitic absorption depending on whether the dopants are diffused into the absorber or whether they are incorporated into silicon layers deposited outside the absorber. Given the terawatt scale of deployment of c‐Si solar cells, the search for alternative contacting schemes that can offer potential benefits in terms of performance, cost, ease of processing or stability is highly relevant. One such category of contacting schemes, with the potential to avoid the above mentioned issues, is that which employs metal compounds as the ‘carrier‐selective’ layer. The last 7 years has seen a surge in interest on this topic and a few promising families of materials have emerged, most prominently the alkali/alkaline‐earth metal compounds and the transition‐metal oxides. The number of successful selective‐contact demonstrations of materials within these families is fast increasing with the best solar cell demonstrations now exceeding 23%. However, in addition to improving their efficiency performance, several challenges remain if such contacts are to be considered for industrial adoption. These are mainly associated with poor stability, lack of compatibility with transparent electrodes and inability to be deposited using standard industrial techniques. This review covers the historical developments, current status and future prospects of metal‐compound based selective contacts in the context of c‐Si photovoltaics.
Review of the mechanisms for the phonon bottleneck effect in III–V semiconductors and their application for efficient hot carrier solar cells
Authors: Zhang Yi , Conibeer Gavin , Liu Shuang , Zhang Jiayu , Guillemoles Jean‐François
Published: March 2022

The hot carrier solar cell aims to significantly boost the power conversion efficiency through fully utilizing the carrier thermalization energy loss. To realize such ultraefficient solar cells, it requires that the excess energy of excited “hot” carriers is captured for power generation by reducing the rate of, or even preventing, carrier cooling. It has been known that phonon bottleneck effects (PBE) play the most decisive role in reducing the carrier thermalization rate. However, the mechanisms underlying PBE are complex and vary in different material systems and are influenced by many factors such as illumination intensity and carrier density (extrinsic), electronic band structure, and phonon dispersion (intrinsic) and quantum confinement (intrinsic). III–V semiconductors are the most popular photovoltaic materials for ultraefficient thin film solar cells due to their high crystal quality and adjustable electronic band structure. Such features reduce some of the complexity of the study of PBE and hot carrier dynamics. Therefore, it is appropriate to identify the PBE mechanisms in these III–V semiconductors. This manuscript systematically reviews the mechanisms underlying PBE in III–V semiconductors in both bulk and nanostructures. There is a tendency for an enhanced PBE in low‐dimensional III–V semiconductors due to quantum and other confinement effects. Multiple quantum wells seem the most promising material system for hot carrier solar cells.
Stress and Deformation Behavior of 2D Composite Cellular Actuator Structures of Ceramic Building Blocks and Epoxy Resins
Authors: Eichhorn Franziska , Schiegerl Helmut , Köllner David , Kakimoto Ken-ichi , Fey Tobias
Published: March 2022

2D actuator composite structures are fabricated of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) and Al2O3 building blocks with an epoxy resin matrix. This novel modular concept gives the possibility to create complex geometric structures where the structure itself tailors the physical properties. To improve the possibilities of excitation or loading and determine the influence of the geometric parameters as slenderness ratio t2 · g−1 and active area Aactive finite element (FE) simulations are used. The stress distribution σyy within the unit cell and the resulting strain amplification ay are tested with different mechanically coupled thermal excitation modes. A homogeneous excitation of the PZT building blocks and a maximum Aactive of 24% led to a maximum of strain amplification and a reduction of induced tensile stresses. In addition, zero deformation could be generated by modifying the structure design with a slenderness ratio of 0.5. Further geometric variations offer the potential to increase the strain amplification.
[4‐(2‐Hydroxyphenyl)imidazolium Salts as Organocatalysts for Cycloaddition of Isocyanates and Epoxides to Yield Oxazolidin‐2‐ones
Authors: Caballero María P. , Carrascosa Fernando , de la Cruz‐Martínez Felipe , Castro‐Osma José A. , Rodríguez Ana M. , North Michael , Lara‐Sánchez Agustín , Tejeda Juan
Published: March 2022

Novel salts based on 1,3‐dibutyl‐4‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)‐1H‐imidazolium bromide or iodide have been developed as bifunctional organocatalysts for the cycloaddition reaction of epoxides and isocyanates to form 3,4‐ and 3,5‐disubstituted oxazolidin‐2‐ones. The molecular structure of these compounds was determined spectroscopically and confirmed by X‐ray diffraction analysis. Imidazolium compounds were screened as catalysts to produce a range of oxazolidinones. The influence of the substituents on the aromatic ring and the counterion of the catalysts on the catalytic activity have been studied, showing that 1,3‐dibutyl‐4‐(5‐fluro‐2‐hydroxyphenyl)‐1H‐imidazolium iodide (4 d) was the most active catalyst for this process in the absence of a cocatalyst.
“In‐Situ Grown Nickel‐Cobalt (NiCo) Alloy Nanoparticles Decorated on Petal‐Like Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Spheres for Efficient OER Activity”**
Authors: Ali Zulfiqar , Mehmood Mazhar , Aslam Muhammad , Haider Muhammad Arslan
Published: March 2022

Herein, we report in‐situ NiCo alloy nanoparticle formation of extremely small diameter (1–5 nm) on nitrogen (N)‐doped carbon spheres by the CVD method at 750 °C temperature, followed by its use in oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysis. Secondary electron microscope (SEM) imaging shows the open as well as close cup‐shaped spheres and discs, while transmission electron microscope (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies confirmed the ultrafine NiCo alloy particles′ formation on nitrogen‐doped multilayer graphitized carbon. Moreover, Raman spectroscopy revealed the ID/IG ratio to be about 1.57 for N‐doped graphitic multilayer carbon, thereby suggesting the defective nature of graphitized carbon material, which may possibly be due to the incorporation of nitrogen atoms into graphitic carbon layers. The formation of extremely small NiCo alloy nanoparticles is attributed to the reducing carbonaceous environment of CVD constituted by ethanol and acetonitrile precursors, while carbon spheres/disks seem to be catalysed by silica substrate originated from an alcogel catalyst. In addition, synthesised hybrid nanocomposites materials were tested for OER electrocatalysis in alkaline conditions and it was found that synthesized NiCo alloy nanoparticles decorated on N‐doped carbon spheres have an overpotential 310 mV at current density of 10 mA/cm2 which is just 5 mV higher than that of benchmark Ir/C (20 wt % Ir) electrocatalyst. The multiphase components of synthesised material like; electrically conductive carbon, nitrogen‐doped sites and well‐separated ultrafine NiCo alloy nanoparticles synergistically contributed towards better OER activity in alkaline conditions.
The Effect of the Nanoparticle Shape on T Cell Activation
Authors: Oh Jiwon , Xia Xingyu , Wong Wai Ki Ricky , Wong Siu Hong Dexter , Yuan Weihao , Wang Haixing , Lai Chun Him Nathanael , Tian Ye , Ho Yi‐Ping , Zhang Honglu , Zhang Yuan , Li Gang , Lin Yuan , Bian Liming
Published: March 2022

The mechanism of extracellular ligand nano‐geometry in ex vivo T cell activation for immunotherapy remains elusive. Herein, the authors demonstrate large aspect ratio (AR) of gold nanorods (AuNRs) conjugated on cell culture substrate enhancing both murine and human T cell activation through the nanoscale anisotropic presentation of stimulatory ligands (anti‐CD3(αCD3) and anti‐CD28(αCD28) antibodies). AuNRs with large AR bearing αCD3 and αCD28 antibodies significantly promote T cell expansion and key cytokine secretion including interleukin‐2 (IL‐2), interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ), and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α). High membrane tension observed in large AR AuNRs regulates actin filament and focal adhesion assembly and develops maturation‐related morphological features in T cells such as membrane ruffle formation, cell spreading, and large T cell receptor (TCR) cluster formation. Anisotropic stimulatory ligand presentation promotes differentiation of naïve CD8+ T cells toward the effector phenotype inducing CD137 expression upon co‐culture with human cervical carcinoma. The findings suggest the importance of manipulating extracellular ligand nano‐geometry in optimizing T cell behaviors to enhance therapeutic outcomes.
The Quaking RNA‐binding proteins as regulators of cell differentiation
Authors: Neumann Daniel P. , Goodall Gregory J. , Gregory Philip A.
Published: March 2022

The RNA‐binding protein Quaking (QKI) has emerged as a potent regulator of cellular differentiation in developmental and pathological processes. The QKI gene is itself alternatively spliced to produce three major isoforms, QKI‐5, QKI‐6, and QKI‐7, that possess very distinct functions. Here, we highlight roles of the different QKI isoforms in neuronal, vascular, muscle, and monocyte cell differentiation, and during epithelial–mesenchymal transition in cancer progression. QKI isoforms control cell differentiation through regulating alternative splicing, mRNA stability and translation, with activities in gene transcription now also becoming evident. These diverse functions of the QKI isoforms contribute to their broad influences on RNA metabolism and cellular differentiation.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein‐RNA Interactions: Functional Implications

RNA Processing > Splicing Regulation/Alternative Splicing

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Development
Introduction: Religion as Historical Experience
Authors: Katajala-Peltomaa Sari , Toivo Raisa Maria
Published: March 2022

In this introductory chapter Katajala-Peltomaa & Toivo analyse historiographical changes from the history of popular religion to the history of religion as lived. They lay out the framework and discuss the tradition of studying the history of experience and religion as a cultural and time-bound phenomenon. The chapter introduces three analytical levels, namely everyday experience, experience as a process and experience as a social and societal structure arguing for a situational nature of experience. The three levels of experience are approached via the concepts of cultural scripts, communities, embodiment, materiality and agency. Finally, the introduction explains the structure of the rest of the volume.
CEBPβ regulation of endogenous IGF-1 in adult sensory neurons can be mobilized to overcome diabetes-induced deficits in bioenergetics and axonal outgrowth
Authors: Aghanoori Mohamad-Reza , Agarwal Prasoon , Gauvin Evan , Nagalingam Raghu S. , Bonomo Raiza , Yathindranath Vinith , Smith Darrell R. , Hai Yan , Lee Samantha , Jolivalt Corinne G. , Calcutt Nigel A. , Jones Meaghan J. , Czubryt Michael P. , Miller Donald W. , Dolinsky Vernon W. , Mansuy-Aubert Virginie , Fernyhough Paul
Published: March 2022

Aberrant insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) signaling has been proposed as a contributing factor to the development of neurodegenerative disorders including diabetic neuropathy, and delivery of exogenous IGF-1 has been explored as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. However, the role of autocrine/paracrine IGF-1 in neuroprotection has not been well established. We therefore used in vitro cell culture systems and animal models of diabetic neuropathy to characterize endogenous IGF-1 in sensory neurons and determine the factors regulating IGF-1 expression and/or affecting neuronal health. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) and in situ hybridization analyses revealed high expression of endogenous IGF-1 in non-peptidergic neurons and satellite glial cells (SGCs) of dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Brain cortex and DRG had higher IGF-1 gene expression than sciatic nerve. Bidirectional transport of IGF-1 along sensory nerves was observed. Despite no difference in IGF-1 receptor levels, IGF-1 gene expression was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in liver and DRG from streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 1 diabetic rats, Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, mice on a high-fat/ high-sugar diet and db/db type 2 diabetic mice. Hyperglycemia suppressed IGF-1 gene expression in cultured DRG neurons and this was reversed by exogenous IGF-1 or the aldose reductase inhibitor sorbinil. Transcription factors, such as NFAT1 and CEBPβ, were also less enriched at the IGF-1 promoter in DRG from diabetic rats vs control rats. CEBPβ overexpression promoted neurite outgrowth and mitochondrial respiration, both of which were blunted by knocking down or blocking IGF-1. Suppression of endogenous IGF-1 in diabetes may contribute to neuropathy and its upregulation at the transcriptional level by CEBPβ can be a promising therapeutic approach.
Effects of TS-142, a novel dual orexin receptor antagonist, on sleep in patients with insomnia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2 study
Authors: Uchiyama Makoto , Kambe Daiji , Imadera Yumiko , Kajiyama Yu , Ogo Hiroki , Uchimura Naohisa
Published: March 2022

Rationale

Novel compound with potent antagonistic activity against orexin receptors may be new treatment option for patients with insomnia.

Objective

The aim was to investigate the efficacy and safety of single oral doses of the dual orexin receptor antagonist TS-142 in patients with insomnia.

Methods

This multicenter, double-blind, crossover randomized clinical trial included non-elderly patients with insomnia. Patients were randomized to receive single doses of placebo and TS-142 at doses of 5, 10, and 30 mg in one of four different sequences, with a 7-day washout period between treatments. Primary efficacy endpoints were latency to persistent sleep (LPS) and wake time after sleep onset (WASO) measured by polysomnography.

Results

Twenty-four patients were included (mean age 50.3 ± 10.5 years; mean duration of insomnia 5.71 ± 8.68 years). Least-squares mean differences (95% confidence interval) from placebo in LPS with 5, 10, and 30 mg TS-142 were − 42.38 (− 60.13, − 24.63), − 42.10 (− 60.02, − 24.17), and − 44.68 (− 62.41, − 26.95) minutes, respectively (all p < 0.001). Least-squares mean differences (95% confidence interval) from placebo in WASO with 5, 10, and 30 mg TS-142 were − 27.52 (− 46.90, − 8.14), − 35.44 (− 55.02, − 15.87), and − 54.69 (− 74.16, − 35.23) minutes, respectively (all p < 0.01). Self-reported aspects of sleep initiation and sleep quality, determined using the Leeds Sleep Evaluation Questionnaire (LSEQ), were also improved with TS-142 administration versus placebo. TS-142 was well tolerated; all adverse events were mild or moderate and none were serious.

Conclusion

Single-dose TS-142 was well tolerated and had clinically relevant effects on objective and subjective sleep parameters in patients with insomnia.

Clinical Trial registration

JapicCTI173570 (www.clinicaltrials.jp); NCT04573725 (www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Differentiation of industrial hemp strains by their cannabinoid and phenolic compounds using LC × LC-HRMS
Authors: Montero Lidia , Meckelmann Sven W. , Kim Hyerin , Ayala-Cabrera Juan F. , Schmitz Oliver J.
Published: March 2022

Cannabis is an ancient plant that has been used for therapeutic and recreational purposes. Nowadays, industrial hemp, a variety with low concentration of the psychoactive cannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and high concentration of non-psychoactive cannabinoids, is getting more and more interest in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industry. However, cannabis not only contains cannabinoids as bioactive components but also other metabolites like terpenes and phenolic compounds, and the content of these interesting secondary metabolites greatly differs with the genetic variety of the plant. Due to the huge complexity of composition of the cannabis matrix, in this work, a comprehensive two-dimensional liquid chromatography (LC × LC) method has been developed as a very power separation technique coupling a pentafluorophenyl (PFP) and a C18 in the first and second dimensions. Two industrial hemp strains (cookie and gelato) were analyzed to determine the difference in their content of cannabinoids and phenolic compounds. To do this, a new demodulation process was applied for the first time to transform 2D raw data into 1D data which allowed carrying out the chemometric analysis needed to determine the statistical differences between the hemp strains. The cookie strain presented a total of 41 cannabinoid markers, while the gelato strain presented more representative phenolic compounds, in total 24 phenolic compounds were detected as potential markers of this sample. These differences in the chemical composition could determine the industrial destiny of the different hemp strains.

Graphical abstract
Metastability for Glauber Dynamics on the Complete Graph with Coupling Disorder
Authors: Bovier Anton , den Hollander Frank , Marello Saeda
Published: March 2022

Consider the complete graph on n vertices. To each vertex assign an Ising spin that can take the values $$-1$$

-
1

or $$+1$$

+
1

. Each spin $$i \in [n]=\{1,2,\dots , n\}$$

i
∈
[
n
]
=
{
1
,
2
,
⋯
,
n
}

interacts with a magnetic field $$h \in [0,\infty )$$

h
∈
[
0
,
∞
)

, while each pair of spins $$i,j \in [n]$$

i
,
j
∈
[
n
]

interact with each other at coupling strength $$n^{-1} J(i)J(j)$$

n

-
1

J

(
i
)

J

(
j
)

, where $$J=(J(i))_{i \in [n]}$$

J
=

(
J

(
i
)

)

i
∈
[
n
]

are i.i.d. non-negative random variables drawn from a probability distribution with finite support. Spins flip according to a Metropolis dynamics at inverse temperature $$\beta \in (0,\infty )$$

β
∈
(
0
,
∞
)

. We show that there are critical thresholds $$\beta _c$$

β
c

and $$h_c(\beta )$$

h
c

(
β
)

such that, in the limit as $$n\rightarrow \infty $$

n
→
∞

, the system exhibits metastable behaviour if and only if $$\beta \in (\beta _c, \infty )$$

β
∈
(

β
c

,
∞
)

and $$h \in [0,h_c(\beta ))$$

h
∈
[
0
,

h
c

(
β
)

)

. Our main result is a sharp asymptotics, up to a multiplicative error $$1+o_n(1)$$

1
+

o
n

(
1
)

, of the average crossover time from any metastable state to the set of states with lower free energy. We use standard techniques of the potential-theoretic approach to metastability. The leading order term in the asymptotics does not depend on the realisation of J, while the correction terms do. The leading order of the correction term is $$\sqrt{n}$$

n

times a centred Gaussian random variable with a complicated variance depending on $$\beta ,h$$

β
,
h

, on the law of J and on the metastable state. The critical thresholds $$\beta _c$$

β
c

and $$h_c(\beta )$$

h
c

(
β
)

depend on the law of J, and so does the number of metastable states. We derive an explicit formula for $$\beta _c$$

β
c

and identify some properties of $$\beta \mapsto h_c(\beta )$$

β
↦

h
c

(
β
)

. Interestingly, the latter is not necessarily monotone, meaning that the metastable crossover may be re-entrant.
Discovery and pharmacological characterization of cetrelimab (JNJ-63723283), an anti–programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) antibody, in human cancer models
Authors: DeAngelis Nikki , Ferrante Catherine , Powers Gordon , Sendecki Jocelyn , Mattson Bethany , Pizutti Darlene , Packman Kathryn , Wang Weirong , Trouba Kevin , Nanjunda Rupesh , Wheeler John , Brittingham Ray , Wu Sheng-Jiun , Luo Jinquan , Lorenzi Matthew V. , Verona Raluca I.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Preclinical characterization of cetrelimab (JNJ-63723283), a fully humanized immunoglobulin G4 kappa monoclonal antibody targeting programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1), in human cancer models.

Methods

Cetrelimab was generated by phage panning against human and cynomolgus monkey (cyno) PD-1 extracellular domains (ECDs) and affinity maturation. Binding to primate and rodent PD-1 ECDs, transfected and endogenous cell-surface PD-1, and inhibition of ligand binding were measured. In vitro activity was evaluated using cytomegalovirus recall, mixed lymphocyte reaction, staphylococcal enterotoxin B stimulation, and Jurkat-PD-1 nuclear factor of activated T cell reporter assays. In vivo activity was assessed using human PD-1 knock-in mice implanted with MC38 tumors and a lung patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model (LG1306) using CD34 cord-blood-humanized NSG mice. Pharmacodynamics, toxicokinetics, and safety were assessed in cynos following single and/or repeat intravenous dosing.

Results

Cetrelimab showed high affinity binding to human (1.72 nM) and cyno (0.90 nM) PD-1 and blocked binding of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1; inhibitory concentration [IC] 111.7 ng/mL) and PD-L2 (IC 138.6 ng/mL). Cetrelimab dose-dependently increased T cell-mediated cytokine production and stimulated cytokine expression. Cetrelimab 10 mg/kg reduced mean MC38 tumor volume in PD-1 knock-in mice at Day 21 (P < 0.0001) versus control. In a PDX lung model, 10 mg/kg cetrelimab (every 5 days for six cycles) increased frequency of peripheral T cells and reduced (P < 0.05) mean tumor volume versus control. Activity was consistent with that of established PD-1 inhibitors. Cetrelimab dosing was well tolerated in cynos and mean drug exposure increase was dose-dependent.

Conclusion

Cetrelimab potently inhibits PD-1 in vitro and in vivo, supporting its clinical evaluation.
Population characteristics of benthopelagic Gymnoscopelus nicholsi (Pisces: Myctophidae) on the continental shelf of South Georgia (Southern Ocean) during austral summer
Authors: Saunders Ryan A. , Hollyman Philip R. , Thorpe Sally E. , Collins Martin A.
Published: March 2022

Southern Ocean myctophid fish (Family Myctophidae) are an important conduit of energy through foodwebs and between the surface layers and mesopelagic depths. Species that reside in both pelagic and near-bottom environments of continental shelves, such as Gymnoscopelus nicholsi and Gymnoscopelus bolini, may also be important in benthopelagic coupling, although their ecology and role in such processes remain unresolved. Here, we examined inter-annual variation in the depth of occurrence, biomass and population dynamics of benthopelagic G. nicholsi on the South Georgia shelf (100–350 m) using bottom trawl data collected between 1987 and 2019. Gymnoscopelus nicholsi was a regular component of the local benthopelagic community, particularly northwest of South Georgia, but was patchily distributed. It appeared to enter a benthopelagic phase at ~ 3 years, with annual growth and recruitment of year classes between ~ 3 and 5 years. However, transition of cohorts into the benthopelagic zone was not annual. There was clear inter-annual variation in G. nicholsi biomass and depth of occurrence. Shallower depth of occurrence was significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with years of warmer summer sea surface temperatures, suggesting that inter-annual variation in local environmental conditions has an important influence on its migration behaviour and ecology. Our data also suggest that Antarctic krill is an important dietary component of the older G. nicholsi cohorts (~ 5 years) in the benthopelagic zone. We note that Gymnoscopelus bolini is rare in bottom trawl catches between 100 and 350 m, although Antarctic krill appears to dominate its diet from the available data. Our study provides important information on understudied myctophid species in a poorly investigated region of the water column that is relevant for Southern Ocean ecosystem studies, particularly in relation to understanding trophic connectivity between the pelagic and near-bottom realms.
Sparse Approximation of Triangular Transports, Part II: The Infinite-Dimensional Case
Authors: Zech Jakob , Marzouk Youssef
Published: March 2022

For two probability measures $${\rho }$$
ρ
and $${\pi }$$
π
on $$[-1,1]^{{\mathbb {N}}}$$

[
-
1
,
1
]

N

we investigate the approximation of the triangular Knothe–Rosenblatt transport $$T:[-1,1]^{{\mathbb {N}}}\rightarrow [-1,1]^{{\mathbb {N}}}$$

T
:

[
-
1
,
1
]

N

→

[
-
1
,
1
]

N

that pushes forward $${\rho }$$
ρ
to $${\pi }$$
π
. Under suitable assumptions, we show that T can be approximated by rational functions without suffering from the curse of dimension. Our results are applicable to posterior measures arising in certain inference problems where the unknown belongs to an (infinite dimensional) Banach space. In particular, we show that it is possible to efficiently approximately sample from certain high-dimensional measures by transforming a lower-dimensional latent variable.
A comparison of a single bout of stretching or foam rolling on range of motion in healthy adults
Authors: Konrad Andreas , Nakamura Masatoshi , Paternoster Florian K. , Tilp Markus , Behm David G.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Stretching and foam rolling are common warm-up exercises and can acutely increase the range of motion (ROM) of a joint. However, possible differences in the magnitude of change on ROM between these two interventions on the immediate and prolonged effects (e.g., 10 min after the intervention) are not yet well understood. Thus, the purpose of this review was to compare the immediate and prolonged effects of a single bout of foam rolling with a single bout of stretching on ROM in healthy participants.

Methods

In total, 20 studies with overall 38 effect sizes were found to be eligible for a meta-analysis. For the main analysis, subgroup analysis, we applied a random-effect meta-analysis, mixed-effect model, respectively. The subgroup analyses included age groups, sex, and activity levels of the participants, as well as the tested muscles, the duration of the application, and the study design.

Results

Meta-analyses revealed no significant differences between a single stretching and foam rolling exercise immediately after the interventions (ES = 0.079; P = 0.39) nor a difference 10 min (ES =  − 0.051; P = 0.65), 15 min (ES =  − 0.011; P = 0.93), and 20 min (ES =  − 0.161; P = 0.275) post-intervention. Moreover, subgroup analyses revealed no other significant differences between the acute effects of stretching and foam rolling (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

If the goal is to increase the ROM acutely, both interventions can be considered as equally effective. Likely, similar mechanisms are responsible for the acute and prolonged ROM increases such as increased stretch tolerance or increased soft-tissue compliance.
A decontamination strategy for resolving SARS-CoV-2 amplicon contamination in a next-generation sequencing laboratory
Authors: Mwangi Peter , Mogotsi Milton , Ogunbayo Ayodeji , Mooko Teboho , Maringa Wairimu , Sondlane Hlengiwe , Nkwadipo Kelebogile , Adelabu Olusesan , Bester Philip Armand , Goedhals Dominique , Nyaga Martin
Published: March 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) amplicon contamination was discovered due to next-generation sequencing (NGS) reads mapping in the negative controls. Environmental screening was undertaken to determine the source of contamination, which was suspected to be evaporation during polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays while using the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) ARTIC protocol. A decontamination strategy is hereby documented to assist laboratories that may experience similar amplicon contamination. Routine molecular laboratory environmental screening as a quality control is highly recommended.
Tumorprothesenversorgung der unteren Extremität inklusive Wachstumsprothesen bei Jugendlichen bis 16 Jahren
Authors: Engel N. M. , Streitbürger A. , Nottrott M. , Podleska L. , Guder W. K. , Hardes J. , Röder J.
Published: March 2022

Hintergrund

Tumorprothesen werden mit guten Langzeitergebnissen bei Kindern und Jugendlichen mit Knochentumoren implantiert und ermöglichen meist einen langfristigen Extremitätenerhalt. Ebenso finden 3‑D-gedruckte Individualimplantate zunehmend Anwendung.

Fragestellung

Mit diesem Beitrag wird eine Übersicht zu kindlichen und jugendlichen Knochentumoren und deren chirurgischer Behandlung gegeben. Aufgrund der Verteilungshäufigkeit der kindlichen und jugendlichen Knochentumoren mit einer Häufung im Bereich der unteren Extremität liegt der Schwerpunkt dieses Beitrags auf diesem Bereich.

Methodik

Es erfolgte die systematische Literaturrecherche bei PubMed sowie die Darstellung anhand der zentrumsinternen Erfahrungen.

Ergebnisse

Knochentumoren bei Kindern und Jugendlichen finden sich zumeist kniegelenknah. Die Verwendung von modularen Tumorprothesen stellt heutzutage die Therapie der Wahl dar, mit der in der Mehrzahl der Fälle ein langfristiger Extremitätenerhalt erreicht werden kann. Mittels Wachstumsprothesen kann bei jüngeren Kindern versucht werden, einer großen Beinlängendifferenz entgegenzuwirken. 3‑D-gedruckte Individualimplantate kommen zunehmend zum Einsatz. Generell haben Tumorprothesen eine höhere Komplikationsrate als primäre Endoprothesen. Die am häufigsten auftretenden Komplikationen und daraus folgende Revisionseingriffe im Langzeit-Follow-up sind periprothetische Infektionen, Prothesenverschleiß und aseptische Lockerungen.
Diagnostic accuracy of physical examination findings for midfacial fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Rozema Romke , Doff Michiel H. J. , Delli Konstantina , Spijkervet Frederik K. L. , van Minnen Baucke
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the diagnostic accuracy of physical examination findings and related clinical decision aids for midfacial fractures in comparison to computed tomography and cone beam computed tomography.

Material and methods

A systematic review was performed by searching the MEDLINE, Cochrane, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases. Risk of bias was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratios with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated for each physical examination finding and reported clinical decision aids.

Results

After screening 2367 records, 12 studies were included. High risk of patient selection bias was detected in three studies (25%). Additionally, high concerns regarding applicability were found for the patient selection in five studies (41.7%), and for the reference standard in eleven studies (91.7%). Of the total 42 individual physical examination findings, only 31 were suitable for a meta-analysis. High specificity and low sensitivity were found for most findings. The pooled diagnostic odds ratio ranged from 1.07 to 11.38. Clinical decision aids were reported by 8 studies, but none were constructed specifically for midfacial fractures.

Conclusion

Based on the current available evidence, the absence of physical examination findings can successfully identify patients who do not have a midfacial fracture, but the presence of individual findings does not necessarily mean that the patient has a midfacial fracture. Although various clinical decision aids were presented, none focused on exclusively midfacial fractures.

Clinical relevance

The diagnostic accuracy of physical examination findings can be used to diagnose a midfacial fracture so as to reduce unnecessary imaging, health care costs, and exposure to ionizing radiation.
Protection of material applied in heat exchanger under submerged jet impingement condition with Boswellia serrata: electrochemical approach
Authors: Lavanya M. , Murthy V. Ramachandra , Rao Padmalatha
Published: March 2022

Erosion–corrosion of 6061 aluminum alloy was attenuated with a green inhibitor Boswellia serrata (BWS) under submerged jet impingement condition by using artificial seawater slurry. Erosion–corrosion rates in the absence and in the presence of inhibitor were achieved by potentiodynamic polarization techniques (PDP). Experiments were performed under the varying concentration of inhibitor at different flow rates and temperatures. Conditions were optimized to obtain maximum inhibition efficiency. Mechanistic aspects of the corrosion and inhibition process were studied in detail by the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique by correlating the data with appropriate equivalent circuit models. Adsorption of inhibitor was confirmed by surface morphology studies using scanning electron microscopy technique (SEM). Suitable mechanism was proposed for corrosion inhibition process. The inhibition efficiency increased with an increase in its concentration and it decreased with an increase in the flow rate and temperature. The inhibition efficiency of 70% was obtained for 1000 ppm of inhibitor at 303 K at the flow rate of 4 L min−1. It was proved that the mechanism of corrosion inhibition under this tribological condition is charge transfer controlled. The effect of hydrodynamics on the inhibitor efficiency of Boswellia serrata extract was remarkable. Boswellia serrata emerged as an efficient green inhibitor of erosion–corrosion control of 6061 aluminum alloy under submerged jet impingement conditions.

Graphical abstract
Candidemia in Internal Medicine: Facing the New Challenge
Authors: Brescini Lucia , Mazzanti Sara , Morroni Gianluca , Pallotta Francesco , Masucci Annamaria , Orsetti Elena , Montalti Roberto , Barchiesi Francesco
Published: March 2022

Candidemia is an alarming problem in critically ill patients including those admitted in Internal Medicine Wards (IMWs). Here, we analyzed all cases of candidemia in adult patients hospitalized over nine years (2010–2018) in IMWs of a 980-bedded University Hospital of Ancona, Italy. During the study period, 218/505 (43%) episodes of candidemia occurred in IMWs patients. The cumulative incidence was 2.5/1000 hospital admission and increased significantly over time (p = 0.013). Patients were predominantly male, with a median age of 68 years. Cardiovascular diseases and solid tumors were the most frequent comorbidities. Candida albicans accounted for 51% of the cases, followed by C. parapsilosis (25%), C. tropicalis (9%) and C. glabrata (7%). Thirty-day mortality was 28% and did not increased significantly over time. By multivariate logistic regression analysis, the presence of neutropenia (OR 7.247 [CI95% 1,368–38,400; p = 0.020]), pneumonia (OR 2.323 [CI95% 1,105–4,884; p = 0.026]), and being infected with C. albicans (OR 2.642 [95% CI 1,223–5,708; p = 0.013) emerged as independent predictors of mortality. The type of antifungal therapy did not influence the outcome. Overall, these data indicate that patients admitted to IMWs are increasingly at higher risk of developing candidemia. Mortality rate remains high and significantly associated with both microbiologic- and host-related factors.
The transparency challenge of blockchain in organizations
Authors: Sedlmeir Johannes , Lautenschlager Jonathan , Fridgen Gilbert , Urbach Nils
Published: March 2022

This position paper discusses the challenges of blockchain applications in businesses and the public sector related to an excessive degree of transparency. We first point out the types of sensitive data involved in different patterns of blockchain use cases. We then argue that the implications of blockchains’ information exposure caused by replicated transaction storage and execution go well beyond the often-mentioned conflicts with the GDPR’s “right to be forgotten” and may be more problematic than anticipated. In particular, we illustrate the trade-off between protecting sensitive information and increasing process efficiency through smart contracts. We also explore to which extent permissioned blockchains and novel applications of cryptographic technologies such as self-sovereign identities and zero-knowledge proofs can help overcome the transparency challenge and thus act as catalysts for blockchain adoption and diffusion in organizations.
Impact of karstification in trapping mechanisms of CO2 storage
Authors: Amin Sharidah Mohd , Tiwari Raj Deo , Widyanita Ana , Chidambaram Prasanna , Ali Siti Syareena Mohd , Mazeli Abd Hakim , Tan Chee Phuat , Hamid M. Khaidhir A.
Published: March 2022

A carbonate-depleted carbonate gas field located offshore Sarawak has been identified as potential candidate for CO2 sequestration site in conjunction with another high CO2 gas field development for commercialization efforts. The field has undergone a feasibility study to evaluate potential geochemical reactions specifically on trapping mechanisms and storage capacity associated with CO2 injection. A detail 3D reactive transport modelling study was conducted to quantify on the four different trapping mechanism: structural, residual, solubility, and mineral trapping during and post-injection. The model was developed by first converted the available field history matched black oil simulation model into compositional 3D model, in which CO2 is treated as separate component in the reservoir through the production and injection processes. The study covered 22 years of gas production history forecast followed by 27 years of injection and 1000 years of post-CO2 injection in the gas column reservoir. The results show that the field has potential to store and sequestrate CO2 up to for 79% structural trapping, 19% residual trapping, 3% solubility trapping and no mineral trapping after 1000 years of post-injection period.
COVID-19 pandemic and mortality in nursing homes across USA and Europe up to October 2021
Authors: Aalto Ulla L. , Pitkälä Kaisu H. , Andersen-Ranberg Karen , Bonin-Guillaume Sylvie , Cruz-Jentoft Alfonso Jose , Eriksdotter Maria , Gordon Adam L. , Gosch Markus , Holmerova Iva , Kautiainen Hannu , Kivipelto Miia , Macijauskiene Jurate , O’Neill Desmond , van den Noortgate Nele , Ranhoff Anette H. , Schols Jos M. G. A. , Singler Katrin , Stankunas Mindaugas , Ouslander Joseph G.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

We compared the prevalence of COVID-19 and related mortality in nursing homes (NHs) in 14 countries until October 2021. We explored the relationship between COVID-19 mortality in NHs with the average size of NHs and with the COVID-19 deaths at a population level.

Methods

The total number of COVID-19 cases and COVID-19-related deaths in all NHs as well as the total number of NHs and NH beds were provided by representatives of 14 countries. The population level respective figures in each country were provided up to October 2021.

Results

There was a wide variation in prevalence of COVID-19 cases and deaths between countries. We observed a significant correlation between COVID-19 deaths in NHs and that of the total population and between the mean size of NHs and COVID-19 deaths.

Conclusion

Side-by-side comparisons between countries allow international sharing of good practice to better enable future pandemic preparedness.