bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dentate gyrus development requires a cortical hem-derived astrocytic scaffold
Authors: Caramello Alessia , Galichet Christophe , Rizzoti Karine , Lovell-Badge Robin
Published: January 2021

During embryonic development, radial glial cells give rise to neurons, then to astrocytes following the gliogenic switch. Timely regulation of the switch, operated by several transcription factors, is fundamental for allowing coordinated interactions between neurons and glia. We deleted the gene for one such factor, SOX9, early during mouse brain development and observed a significantly compromised dentate gyrus (DG). We dissected the origin of the defect, targeting embryonic Sox9 deletion to either the DG neuronal progenitor domain or the adjacent cortical hem (CH). We identified in the latter previously uncharacterized ALDH1L1+ astrocytic progenitors, which form a fimbrial-specific glial scaffold necessary for neuronal progenitor migration toward the developing DG. Our results highlight an early crucial role of SOX9 for DG development through regulation of astroglial potential acquisition in the CH. Moreover, we illustrate how formation of a local network, amidst astrocytic and neuronal progenitors originating from adjacent domains, underlays brain morphogenesis.
A cell atlas of the chick retina based on single-cell transcriptomics
Authors: Yamagata Masahito , Yan Wenjun , Sanes Joshua R
Published: January 2021

Retinal structure and function have been studied in many vertebrate orders, but molecular characterization has been largely confined to mammals. We used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to generate a cell atlas of the chick retina. We identified 136 cell types plus 14 positional or developmental intermediates distributed among the six classes conserved across vertebrates – photoreceptor, horizontal, bipolar, amacrine, retinal ganglion, and glial cells. To assess morphology of molecularly defined types, we adapted a method for CRISPR-based integration of reporters into selectively expressed genes. For Müller glia, we found that transcriptionally distinct cells were regionally localized along the anterior-posterior, dorsal-ventral, and central-peripheral retinal axes. We also identified immature photoreceptor, horizontal cell, and oligodendrocyte types that persist into late embryonic stages. Finally, we analyzed relationships among chick, mouse, and primate retinal cell classes and types. Our results provide a foundation for anatomical, physiological, evolutionary, and developmental studies of the avian visual system.
The Court Culture in France, Italy and England in 16-17th Centuries: Interaction and Mutual Influence
Authors: Sokolova Alla
Published: January 2021

The article examines the traditions of French court ballet, which are rooted in early medieval Italian musical and theatrical performances, as well as the traditions of the medieval carnival. The functional features of the French court ballet are revealed. French ballet is viewed through the prism of a synthesized art form: dance, music, poetry and complex scenography. It is specified that French ballet as an independent genre was formed in the era of Queen Catherine de Medici.

It was revealed that thanks to the skill and professionalism of choreographers of both French and Italian descent, the French court ballet reached its peak in the first half of the seventeenth century.

It was determined that the court ballet was becoming a cultural and political instrument that raised the status of France in Europe, served to strengthen the authority of the French monarch, and was a means of uniting the French monarchy and the people. Despite significant financial costs, the political and cultural feasibility of staging court ballets exceeded the economic feasibility.

An analogy is drawn with the English court Мasque. It is substantiated that the English court Masque was based on the traditions of Italian intermedio and French court ballet. Thus, English stage designers adopted the experience of Italian stage designers. Dances of Italian origin were an integral part of Masque in England. Choreography in Masque was created by French and Italian choreographers.

It has been proven that English culture was influenced by continental culture, which contributed to the formation of a common cultural space.

It is substantiated that the genre of French ballet, Italian intermedio and English Masque were not a high art, but over time, having undergone a transformation, they evolved into new forms and genres.
The tail-tale of stress: an exploratory analysis of cortisol levels in the tail-hair of captive Asian elephants
Authors: Pokharel Sanjeeta Sharma , Yoneda Hiroki , Yanagi Moe , Sukumar Raman , Kinoshita Kodzue
Published: January 2021

Background

Assessment of physiological states by measuring biomarkers, such as cortisol, has significantly contributed to the monitoring of health, welfare and management of animals. Immunoreactive cortisol in hair (hC) has been used widely for deciphering ‘stressful’ past-events in various wild and captive animals. However, no such studies have been done in long-lived mammals.

Methods

In this first exploratory study in elephants, we assessed (i) tail-hair growth rate (TGR) and (ii) hC levels in tail-hair samples from six captive Asian elephants from two zoos in Japan for comparing hC levels with zoo-keepers’ records of distinct biological events over a c.0.5–2.0-year period. Tail-hair samples were cut into segments (based on monthly growth rate), pulverized or minced and a validated cortisol enzyme-immunoassay employed to measure hC levels.

Results

When the hC levels of all individuals were compared with the keepers’ records, a posteriori, most of the high hC levels were found to be associated with ‘stressful’ or distinct behavioural events such as pathological (anaemia, colic infection, skin infection, oral sores), psychosocial (reluctance in entering the enclosure, presence of a calf) and husbandry practice-related (contact trials/ space sharing) conditions, indicating that tail-hair indeed can be a potential ‘retrospective’ calendar of physiological health of an animal.

Conclusions

Our observations open up the possibility of using the tail-hair as an alternative matrix to reconstruct the physiological history of elephants.
Serum metabolite profiling of a 4-Nitroquinoline-1-oxide-induced experimental oral carcinogenesis model using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: Ge Shuyun , Zhou Haiwen , Zhou Zengtong , Liu Lin , Lou Jianing
Published: January 2021

Background

Oral cancer progresses from hyperplastic epithelial lesions through dysplasia to invasive carcinoma. The critical needs in oral cancer treatment are expanding our knowledge of malignant tumour progression and the development of useful approaches to prevent dysplastic lesions. This study was designed to gain insights into the underlying metabolic transformations that occur during the process of oral carcinogenesis.

Methods

We used gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in conjunction with multivariate statistical techniques to observe alterations in serum metabolites in a 4-Nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4NQO)-induced rat tongue carcinogenesis model. Thirty-eight male rats were randomly divided into two groups, including the 4NQO-induced model group of 30 rats and the healthy control group of five rats. Animals were sacrificed at weeks 9, 13, 20, 24, and 32, post-4NQO treatment. Tissue samples were collected for histopathological examinations and blood samples were collected for metabolomic analysis. Partial least squares discriminate analysis (PLS-DA) models generated from GC-MS metabolic profile data showed robust discrimination from rats with oral premalignant and malignant lesions induced by 4NQO, and normal controls.

Results

The results found 16 metabolites associated with 4NQO-induced rat tongue carcinogenesis. Dysregulated arachidonic acid, fatty acid, and glycine metabolism, as well as disturbed tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and mitochondrial respiratory chains were observed in the animal model. The PLS-DA models of metabolomic results demonstrated good separations between the 4NQO-induced model group and the normal control group.

Conclusion

We found several metabolites modulated by 4NQO and provide a good reference for further study of early diagnosis in oral cancer.
Role Of Social Media As A Catalyser For Ocular Injury
Authors: Kabra Namrata , Gupta Smriti
Published: January 2021

Introduction:

Social media allows social growth of the society but has both advantages and disadvantages. We came across one such example where people are making calcium carbide guns after watching video, spreading through social media to get rid of animals and birds from their field. This in turn leads to blinding injuries in eyes.

Purpose:

To highlight this novel mode of eye injury and to create awareness among people to stop use of such dangerous calcium carbide guns that is leading to serious ocular injuries.

Material and method:

A prospective study of all cases of calcium carbide related ocular trauma reporting to our outpatient department (OPD). The demographic profile, severity of ocular injuries and management of cases were recorded.

Result:

We studied 14 eyes of 13 patients with variable degree of ocular injury sustained due to calcium carbide exposure while mishandling calcium carbide gun. All of them were young males. Significant number of patients (30.7%) had grade V injury according to Dua’s classification.

Conclusion:

Video of making calcium carbide guns floating in social media leading to serious ocular injuries. Awareness should be created among people to avoid making and using such dangerous weapons.
Retained corneal glass foreign body
Authors: Agarwal Rinky , Bafna Rahul Kumar , Jain Vatika , Sharma Namrata
Published: January 2021

Microbial keratitis (MK) is a potential vision-threatening condition that involves cornea and mandates prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent untoward outcomes. Corneal foreign bodies (CFBs) are a common cause of presentation to ocular emergencies and can be a predisposing risk factor as well as a differential diagnosis of MK. We present a case of superficial glass CFB that can be mistaken as MK by any novice ophthalmologist.
Radiological Features of Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)
Authors: Agarwal Ayushi , Khanam Samreen , Raut Akash , Goel Ruchi
Published: January 2021

This article highlights the importance of imaging and its current utility in Thyroid Eye Disease (TED). Assessment of various disease parameters, surgical planning, characterization of severity and activity, identification of sight-threatening disease and differentiation from other orbital inflammatory disorders, makes imaging an indispensable tool in TED.
Fatal Outcome of the Inappropriate Use of an Organophosphate Compound (Sniper) in a Resource-Limited Setting
Authors: Okechukwu Chioma , Alabi Ajibola
Published: January 2021

This case of unintentional organophosphate poisoning in a 9-year-old girl highlights the fatal consequence of the inappropriate use of an organophosphate pesticide bearing the trade name Sniper. The child developed significant organophosphate (OP) toxicity from dermal absorption of the chemical agent applied to her scalp by her mother and hairdresser in an attempt to treat head lice. This case also outlines the management of organophosphate poisoning, identifies the constrains of management in a resource-limited setting and emphasizes the need for prevention through community education and enforcement of regulatory measures.
Learning and Engagement in the Flipped Classroom of Analytical Mathematics
Authors: Sofroniou Anastasia
Published: January 2021

Learning techniques have changed over time in order to try and improve student engagement across different subjects in higher education. Mathematics has dominantly adhered to certain learning methods that use a more conventional approach. Interactive and active learning in Mathematics tend to be more common in further education yet, university level Mathematics is more complex, heavy in content and poses more difficulty in applying active learning approaches as a passive approach of traditional lectures has always been applied. The issues of learning problems in mathematics is ignored and the lack of metacognitive awareness of mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills seem to persist despite differences amongst educators on an effective learning methodology.

Following the reform movement in mathematics education in the mid 1980’s, resulting from the dissatisfaction of conventional approaches, recommending the restructuring of mathematical delivery marked the need for modifications in teaching methodology. Employing multiple models to deliver lessons may implement the changes needed to drive student engagement and satisfaction to improve the experience in learning mathematics. In order for these methods to become applicable and effective in students’ experiences in mathematical education, educators need to be encouraged to present active learning techniques so that students can begin to facilitate their own learning which can be done through introducing approaches specific to the individual such as student-centred approaches.

This paper evaluates the techniques used by mathematicians to deliver lessons and how it reflects on learning and engagement of students in comparison to the flipped classroom approach which inverts the common traditional lecture style used in classrooms. The flipped classroom model in this study is adopted to a topic from the university foundation level module, Analytical Mathematics, whereby results from the quantitative analysis undertaken show a decrease in the success of students’ performance suggesting a lesser impact on improved learning. With regards to engagement, observations from the qualitative analysis of the study highlight positive aspects of the flipped classroom model, specifically an optimistic engagement amongst peers.
Effects of Various Drying Methods on Physicochemical Characteristics, Flavonoids and Polyphenol Content, and Antioxidant Activities of Different Extracts from Morinda citrifolia Fruit
Authors: Tuyen Kha Chan , Cong Nguyen Thanh , Thinh Pham Van , Minh Trương Ngọc , Manh Tran Dinh , Khánh Huỳnh Hoàng Như
Published: January 2021

Introduction: M. citrifolia is known as a medical plant in Vietnam, named Noni, which contains numerous bioactive ingredients and applying good in functional food and pharmaceuticals. The notices on the change of physicochemical characteristics (color, pH, total solids, and titration acid), the content of flavonoids and polyphenol, and antioxidant activities (total, reducing power, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) free radical scavenging) of different extracts from Morinda citrifolia fruit at various drying methods (solar energy, microwave, and heat pump), microwave power, and temperature have not been found. Therefore, the paper focused on these things.

Methods: Morinda citrifolia fruit were harvested in July 2020, dried by using different methods (solar energy, microwave, and heat pump), and soaked in 96% solvent (ethanol and aqueous) for evaluating physicochemical characteristics, flavonoids and polyphenol content, and antioxidant activities. Drying M. citrifolia was at the temperature (50, 60, and 70°C) and the microwave power (100, 200, 400, 600, and 800 W), corresponding to the heat pump method and the microwave method, respectively and evaluating the drying speed curve basing on the moisture of M. citrifolia according to the drying time.

Results: Physicochemical characteristics, flavonoids content, polyphenol content, and antioxidant activities (total, reducing power, and DPPH free radical scavenging) were affected by various drying methods, different extracting solvents (p<0.05) and changed the drying time, microwave power, and temperature according to the non-linear model of level 2. The stabilization of physicochemical characteristics, flavonoids content, polyphenol content, and antioxidant activities of M. citrifolia in the drying method of microwave power was the highest, followed by the heat pump and solar energy. Ethanol solvent was more effective than aqueous solvent as extracting bioactive substances (flavonoids content and polyphenol content).

Conclusion: The results will be useful for preparing the dried M. citrifolia to serve for the storage and the produce of M. citrifolia in functional food and pharmaceuticals.
Hydration‐Induced β‐Sheet Crosslinking of α‐Helical‐Rich Spider Prey‐Wrapping Silk
Authors: Stengel Dillan , Addison J. Bennett , Onofrei David , Huynh Nha Uyen , Youssef George , Holland Gregory P.
Published: January 2021

Due to its moderate strength (≈700 MPa) and impressive extensibility before breaking (≈60–80%), orb‐weaving spider aciniform (AC) prey‐wrapping silks are actually the toughest of the spider silks but are remarkably understudied. The previous results indicate that native AC silk fibers are an α‐helix rich coiled‐coil/β‐sheet hybrid nanofiber, and that conversion of disordered or helical domains to β‐sheet aggregates is surprisingly minimal and overall β‐sheet content is low (≈15%). In this work, it is demonstrated through scanning electron microscopy that native AC silk fibers undergo matted cross‐linking upon exposure to moisture that increases silk stiffness. The unique molecular mechanism of water‐induced cross‐linking is revealed with solid‐state NMR (SSNMR) methods; water‐induced morphological changes are correlated with an increase in AC silk protein β‐sheet content, and additionally a minor unfolding of coiled‐coil regions is observed. Continued and increased β‐sheet cross‐linking is observed upon application of mechanical shear. The size of these β‐sheet domains to be 4–6 nm using Wide‐Line Separation SSNMR is determined. The observation that merely water treatment can be used to convert a protein‐based material from a flexible/extensible α‐helix‐rich fiber to a rigid crossed‐linked β‐sheet mat is a novel observation that should provide new avenues in bioinspired materials design.
Near Infrared Photo‐Antimicrobial Targeting Therapy for Candida albicans
Authors: Yasui Hirotoshi , Takahashi Kazuomi , Taki Shunichi , Shimizu Misae , Koike Chiaki , Umeda Koji , Rahman Shofiqur , Akashi Tomohiro , Nguyen Van Sa , Nakagawa Yoshiyuki , Sato Kazuhide
Published: January 2021

Drug‐resistant microorganisms are a pressing issue, and innovative antimicrobial therapies are required; antibodies targeting antigens on pathogen surfaces have emerged as one such modality. IgY, abundant in chicken egg yolk, confers passive immunity, and is effective against various pathogens; however, its antimicrobial effects remain limited. Near‐infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR‐PIT), originally developed as a cancer treatment, specifically kills cancer cells via a photosensitizing phthalocyanine dye (IRDye700Dx; IR700)‐conjugated monoclonal antibody, and irradiating NIR light. IgY‐photo‐antimicrobial targeting therapy (IgY‐PAT2), exploiting NIR‐PIT, is investigated to destroy only microorganisms. IR700 is conjugated with anti‐Candida albicans IgY (CA‐IgY) to generate CA‐IgY‐IR700, which specifically binds various Candida spp. (and not human skin cells). The antimicrobial effect of CA‐IgY‐PAT2 is dependent on the NIR‐light dose (p < 0.0001). CA‐IgY‐PAT2 significantly reduces the area of ulcers in a mouse model of CA‐infected cutaneous ulcers (p < 0.0001), indicating that CA‐IgY‐PAT2 is a new promising therapeutic method for CA infection.
Enhanced Room‐Temperature Photoluminescence Quantum Yield in Morphology Controlled J‐Aggregates
Authors: Anantharaman Surendra B. , Kohlbrecher Joachim , Rainò Gabriele , Yakunin Sergii , Stöferle Thilo , Patel Jay , Kovalenko Maksym , Mahrt Rainer F. , Nüesch Frank A. , Heier Jakob
Published: January 2021

Supramolecular assemblies from organic dyes forming J‐aggregates are known to exhibit narrowband photoluminescence with full‐width at half maximum of ≈9 nm (260 cm−1). Applications of these high color purity emitters, however, are hampered by the rather low photoluminescence quantum yields reported for cyanine J‐aggregates, even when formed in solution. Here, it is demonstrated that cyanine J‐aggregates can reach an order of magnitude higher photoluminescence quantum yield (increase from 5% to 60%) in blend solutions of water and alkylamines at room temperature. By means of time‐resolved photoluminescence studies, an increase in the exciton lifetime as a result of the suppression of non‐radiative processes is shown. Small‐angle neutron scattering studies suggest a necessary condition for the formation of such highly emissive J‐aggregates: the presence of a sharp water/amine interface for J‐aggregate assembly and the coexistence of nanoscale‐sized water and amine domains to restrict the J‐aggregate size and solubilize monomers, respectively.
Reversible Half Wave Rectifier Based on 2D InSe/GeSe Heterostructure with Near‐Broken Band Alignment
Authors: Yan Yong , Li Shasha , Du Juan , Yang Huai , Wang Xiaoting , Song Xiaohui , Li Lixia , Li Xueping , Xia Congxin , Liu Yufang , Li Jingbo , Wei Zhongming
Published: January 2021

2D van der Waals heterostructures (vdWHs) offer tremendous opportunities in designing multifunctional electronic devices. Due to the ultrathin nature of 2D materials, the gate‐induced change in charge density makes amplitude control possible, creating a new programmable unilateral rectifier. The study of 2D vdWHs‐based reversible unilateral rectifier is lacking, although it can give rise to a new degree of freedom for modulating the output state. Here, a InSe/GeSe vdWH‐FET is constructed as a gate‐controllable half wave rectifier. The device exhibits stepless adjustment from forward to backward rectifying performance, leading to multiple operation states of output level. Near‐broken band alignment in the InSe/GeSe vdWH‐FET is a crucial feature for high‐performance reversible rectifier, which is shown to have backward and forward rectification ratio of 1:38 and 963:1, respectively. Being further explored as a new bridge rectifier, the InSe/GeSe device has great potential in future gate‐controllable alternating current/direct current convertor. These results indicate that 2D vdWHs with near‐broken band alignment can offer a pathway to simplify the commutating circuit and regulating speed circuit.
Understanding Surface Modifications Induced via Argon Plasma Treatment through Secondary Electron Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Farr Nicholas , Thanarak Jeerawan , Schäfer Jan , Quade Antje , Claeyssens Frederik , Green Nicola , Rodenburg Cornelia
Published: January 2021

Understanding the effects that sterilization methods have on the surface of a biomaterial is a prerequisite for clinical deployment. Sterilization causes alterations in a material's surface chemistry and surface structures that can result in significant changes to its cellular response. Here we compare surfaces resulting from the application of the industry standard autoclave sterilisation to that of surfaces resulting from the use of low‐pressure Argon glow discharge within a novel gas permeable packaging method in order to explore a potential new biomaterial sterilisation method. Material surfaces are assessed by applying secondary electron hyperspectral imaging (SEHI). SEHI is a novel low‐voltage scanning electron microscopy based characterization technique that, in addition to capturing topographical images, also provides nanoscale resolution chemical maps by utilizing the energy distribution of emitted secondary electrons. Here, SEHI maps are exploited to assess the lateral distributions of diverse functional groups that are effected by the sterilization treatments. This information combined with a range of conventional surface analysis techniques and a cellular metabolic activity assay reveals persuasive reasons as to why low‐pressure argon glow discharge should be considered for further optimization as a potential terminal sterilization method for PGS‐M, a functionalized form of poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS).
New regimens and directions in the management of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma
Authors: Bal Susan , Giri Smith , Godby Kelly N. , Costa Luciano J.
Published: January 2021

The introduction of novel agents over the last decade has rapidly expanded the therapeutic landscape of multiple myeloma (MM) for both transplant‐eligible and transplant‐ineligible patients. The assessment of minimal residual disease (MRD) by next‐generation flow cytometry or next‐generation sequencing is established as a powerful predictor of long‐term outcomes. The use of MRD in response‐adapted clinical trials may provide opportunities to identify candidates for treatment escalation and de‐escalation. Agents with proven activity in the relapsed and refractory setting are being studied in the management of high‐risk newly diagnosed MM (NDMM). Here, we summarize the most recent clinical trials that have led to the current paradigms in the management of NDMM. We also discuss how novel agents could be incorporated in the newly diagnosed setting and potential clinical trial designs that could leverage MRD information with the goal of treatment optimization.
Tuning the H‐Atom Transfer Reactivity of Iron(IV)‐Oxo Complexes as Probed by Infrared Photodissociation Spectroscopy
Authors: Tripodi Guilherme L. , Dekker Magda M. J. , Roithová Jana , Que Lawrence
Published: January 2021

Reactivities of non‐heme iron(IV)‐oxo complexes are mostly controlled by the ligands. Complexes with tetradentate ligands such as [(TPA)FeO]2+ (TPA=tris(2‐pyridylmethyl)amine) belong to the most reactive ones. Here, we show a fine‐tuning of the reactivity of [(TPA)FeO]2+ by an additional ligand X (X=CH3CN, CF3SO3−, ArI, and ArIO; ArI=2‐(tBuSO2)C6H4I) attached in solution and reveal a thus far unknown role of the ArIO oxidant. The HAT reactivity of [(TPA)FeO(X)]+/2+ decreases in the order of X: ArIO > MeCN > ArI ≈ TfO−. Hence, ArIO is not just a mere oxidant of the iron(II) complex, but it can also increase the reactivity of the iron(IV)‐oxo complex as a labile ligand. The detected HAT reactivities of the [(TPA)FeO(X)]+/2+ complexes correlate with the Fe=O and FeO−H stretching vibrations of the reactants and the respective products as determined by infrared photodissociation spectroscopy. Hence, the most reactive [(TPA)FeO(ArIO)]2+ adduct in the series has the weakest Fe=O bond and forms the strongest FeO−H bond in the HAT reaction.
Mechanical performance of vinyl ester—polyurethane interpenetrating polymer network composites
Authors: Alizadeh Nima , Thorne David P. , Auad Maria L. , Celestine Asha‐Dee N.
Published: January 2021

In this study, a carbon fiber/vinyl ester‐polyurethane interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) laminate composite was fabricated and characterized for the first time. The IPN matrix, consisting of a commercially available vinyl ester and polyurethane, was synthesized via a sequential method with vinyl ester as the rigid phase and polyurethane as the flexible phase. Good compatibility between the two phases in the matrix was achieved and confirmed via differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis. The thermomechanical response of the IPN matrix was compared with that of an unmodified vinyl ester resin. The presence of the more ductile polyurethane in the IPN matrix depressed the glass transition temperature (from 94 to 84°C), but also served to improve damping response at all frequencies studied. Tensile and flexural tests were performed on the carbon fiber/IPN and carbon fiber/vinyl ester composites to determine their mechanical response. The IPN composite exhibited lower tensile properties than the vinyl ester composite. However, its flexural properties were on par with those of the vinyl ester composite.
Analyzing longitudinal clustered count data with zero inflation: Marginal modeling using the Conway–Maxwell–Poisson distribution
Authors: Kang Tong , Levy Steven M. , Datta Somnath
Published: January 2021

Biological and medical researchers often collect count data in clusters at multiple time points. The data can exhibit excessive zeros and a wide range of dispersion levels. In particular, our research was motivated by a dental dataset with such complex data features: the Iowa Fluoride Study (IFS). The study was designed to investigate the effects of various dietary and nondietary factors on the caries development of a cohort of Iowa school children at the ages of 5, 9, and 13. To analyze the multiyear IFS data, we propose a novel longitudinal method of a generalized estimating equations based marginal regression model. We use a zero‐inflated model with a Conway–Maxwell–Poisson (CMP) distribution, which has the flexibility to account for all levels of dispersion. The parameters of interest are estimated through a modified expectation–solution algorithm to account for the clustered and temporal correlation structure. We fit the proposed zero‐inflated CMP model and perform a comprehensive secondary analysis of the IFS dataset. It resulted in a number of notable conclusions that also make clinical sense. Additionally, we demonstrated the superiority of this modeling approach over two other popular competing models: the zero‐inflated Poisson and negative binomial models. In the simulation studies, we further evaluate the performance of our point estimators, the variance estimators, and that of the large sample confidence intervals for the parameters of interest. It is also demonstrated that our longitudinal CMP model can correctly identify the time‐varying dispersion patterns.
Brain network construction and analysis for patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease based on a highly‐available nodes approach
Authors: Zhang Xiaopan , Liu Junhong , Chen Yuan , Jin Yanan , Cheng Jingliang ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Using brain network and graph theory methods to analyze the Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) abnormal brain function is more and more popular. Plenty of potential methods have been proposed, but the representative signal of each brain region in these methods remains poor performance.

Methods

We propose a highly‐available nodes approach for constructing brain network of patients with MCI and AD. With resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI) data of 84 AD subjects, 81 MCI subjects, and 82 normal control (NC) subjects from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative Database, we construct connected weighted brain networks based on the different sparsity and minimum spanning tree. Support Vector Machine of Radial Basis Function kernel was selected as classifier.

Results

Accuracies of 74.09% and 77.58% in classification of MCI and AD from NC, respectively. We also performed a hub node analysis and found 18 significant brain regions were identified as hub nodes.

Conclusions

The findings of this study provide insights for helping understanding the progress of the AD. The proposed method highlights the effectively representative time series of brain regions of rs‐fMRI data for construction and topology analysis brain network.
Poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline) as a Gel Additive to Improve the Performance of Sulfur Cathodes in Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Yang Qi , Yu Yu , Huang Wenlong , Liu Yuansheng , Liu Xu , Liu Huitian , Shan Zhongqiang
Published: January 2021

Dissolution and free diffusion of polysulfides in ether‐based electrolyte during cycling causes fast capacity decay and low columbic efficiency in lithium‐sulfur batteries. In this work, poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline) (PEtOx), as an additive of sulfur cathodes, can gelatinate the electrolyte in the presence of polysulfide species, which can anchor the uncontrollable diffusion of polysulfides during the discharge process. Additionally, pore structures can form in the sulfur cathode after the dissolution of PEtOx into the electrolyte. As a result, the sulfur converted from polysulfides during subsequent charging processes will deposit more uniformly in the porous cathode. This “dissolution‐redeposition” mechanism effectively reduces the loss of active materials, providing beneficial guidance for practical Li−S batteries.
Frustrated Lewis Pair Catalysis: It Takes Two to Make a Thing Go Right
Authors: Tan Xinyue , Wang Huadong
Published: January 2021

Since the introduction of the concept of frustrated Lewis pair by Stephan in 2006, the frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) chemistry has evolved into a rich and fruitful research area which is largely responsible for the renaissance of main group chemistry in recent years. Among many applications of FLP, design of catalytic systems based on the concept of FLP, pioneered by Stephan, Chen and others, provides a powerful arsenal that has been applied to organic synthesis and polymerization. This article will highlight key advances in the development of FLP related catalysis.
An attention‐based deep learning model for traffic flow prediction using spatiotemporal features towards sustainable smart city
Authors: Vijayalakshmi Balachandran , Ramar Kadarkarayandi , Jhanjhi NZ. , Verma Sahil , Kaliappan Madasamy , Vijayalakshmi Kandasamy , Vimal Shanmuganathan , Kavita  , Ghosh Uttam
Published: January 2021

In the development of smart cities, the intelligent transportation system (ITS) plays a major role. The dynamic and chaotic nature of the traffic information makes the accurate forecasting of traffic flow as a challengeable one in ITS. The volume of traffic data increases dramatically. We enter the epoch of big data. Hence, a 1deep architecture is necessary to process, analyze, and inference such a large volume of data. To develop a better traffic flow forecasting model, we proposed an attention‐based convolution neural network long short‐term memory (CNN‐LSTM), a multistep prediction model. The proposed scheme uses the spatial and time‐based details of the traffic data, which are extracted using CNN and LSTM networks to improve the model accuracy. The attention‐based model helps to identify the near term traffic details such as speed that is very important for predicting the future value of flow. The results show that our attention‐based CNN‐LSTM prediction model provides better accuracy in terms of prediction during weekdays and weekend days in the case of peak and nonpeak hours also. We used data from the largest traffic data set the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for our prediction work.
Modified spider monkey optimization—An enhanced optimization of spectrum sharing in cognitive radio networks
Authors: Dinesh G. , Venkatakrishnan P. , Jeyanthi K. Meena Alias
Published: January 2021

At present, the demand for wireless communications is growing tremendously. Cognitive radio network plays an important role in making the spectrum to be used effectively. Uncertainty in channels and interference were generally occurs that reduced the system efficiency. To overcome the load usage problem, the proposed system of spectrum sensing and scheduling algorithms is introduced, where the available spectrums are sensed or detected and scheduled to load the free spectrum. Spectrum sensing is a cognitive radio basic function to thwart the harmful interference with licensed users and detect the available spectrum for enhancing the spectrum's utilization. In the proposed technique, initially, the spectrum sharing and sensing method is put forward to raise the throughput and quality of service necessity. At this time, spectrum sharing in common with scheduling process is presented, where the available spectrum, the load is scheduled and sensed to free the spectrum. Here, the modified spider monkey optimization (MSMO) technique is used for spectrum sensing and detecting free spectrums, thereby enhancing the energy efficiency of the available spectrum. This technique will found the optimal solution and increases the expectation of some decisions. Modified round robin algorithm is used for scheduling load. In this algorithm, every packet flow has its packet queue presented in the network interface controller. The performance analysis is finally measured using metrics such as throughput, handoff, success probability, and false alarm probability.
Decoding and measurement of frequency‐hopping spread spectrum signals using an adaptive algorithm‐based compressive sensing
Authors: Ghanem Sameh
Published: January 2021

Decoding of frequency‐hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) methods to intercept the symbol content in signals and brilliant measurement is presented in this paper. The switching of the frequency channels rapidly using a pseudorandom code makes interception of FHSS signals very difficult. Therefore, a proposed adaptive compressive measurement for decoding the frequency‐hopping receivers that have no prior knowledge of the hopping sequence is the main focus of this work. The proposed methods rely on the instantaneous sparsity of the spectra of FHSS signals, and the transmitted symbols can be recovered from the proposed compressive measurements. Furthermore, the contribution of this work is the design of a proposed adaptive method that is used to design measurement kernels for compressive measurement and decoding based on knowledge enhancement, which includes both prior information enhanced and adaptive methods based on the properties of the intersignals. Simulation results on Gaussian frequency‐shift keying (GFSK) FHSS signals illustrate that the proposed compressive method enhances the detection performance of the received frequencies with acceptable decoding accuracy compared with other techniques such as enhanced orthogonal matching pursuit (EOMP) and an adaptive sampling kernels method with a random compressive ratio. Also, an enhancement of the proposed algorithm is achieved due to enhancement in both the normalized mean square error (NMSE) and the probability of correction error (Pce). The comparison between these algorithms is performed using simulation based on MATLAB and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.
Optimization for connectivity and coverage issue in target‐based wireless sensor networks using an effective multiobjective hybrid tunicate and salp swarm optimizer
Authors: Chelliah Jehan , Kader Navaz
Published: January 2021

The two main important issues in designing target‐based wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are coverage and connectivity maximization. In order to tackle the coverage and connectivity problems, we have proposed a hybrid optimization‐based model. Thereby, the target‐based WSNs can include the sensor nodes which are placed based on determining minimum number of selected potential positions. To do that, an optimization approach based on a hybrid tunicate swarm optimizer (TSO) and salp swarm optimizer (SSO) is proposed for coverage and connectivity problems in WSNs. Feature exploitation ability of SSO is improved by TSO operators, because these operators can act as local search operators. Basically, these hybrid algorithm operators are used to derive the fitness function followed with the solution representation step. Initially, the population is generated, and the hybrid tunicate swarm optimizer and salp swarm optimizer (HTSS) algorithm has updated the solutions in the next subsequent step. Ultimately, the nondominated solutions are determined in the final step. The two different scenarios of WSN are used for simulation of this scheme. Simulations have shown its outstanding performance in solving the coverage and connectivity problems in wireless networks.
Efficient pilot reuse algorithms for massive MIMO cellular system
Authors: Dey Abhinaba , Pattanayak Prabina , Gurjar Devendra Singh , Kumar Preetam
Published: January 2021

Pilot contamination has come up as one of the major limitations of massive multiple‐input multiple‐output. In the recent past, the pilot contamination resulted by the pilot reuse in inter‐cell system has been successfully handled. In this paper, three efficient algorithms have been proposed to reduce the pilot contamination in intra‐cell system. These schemes emphasize on assigning the available pilots to the users based upon their channel qualities by considering the interfering degree of the various pilot sequences. The first proposed algorithm is based on water filling approach, which attains the system throughput very close to that of brute‐force exhaustive search algorithm (ESA) and performs the best among the three proposed algorithms in terms of system throughput. The second algorithm is designed for achieving better user fairness (by assigning less interfering pilots to the poor channel conditioned users). The third algorithm improves the system throughput as compared to the second algorithm without losing much in terms of user fairness. Furthermore, the computational complexity incurred by all the proposed algorithms is much less than that of ESA.
Mobile agent‐based service migration in mobile edge computing
Authors: Guo Yongan , Jiang Chunlei , Wu Tin‐Yu , Wang Anzhi
Published: January 2021

In order to improve the efficiency of service migration in mobile edge computing (MEC), and obtain higher quality of service and better user experience, we take mobile agent technology, instead of container, as the application component hosting technology. The advantages of mobile agent include small size, high flexibility, autonomy, and suitability for heterogeneous environments. For 5G communications, how to offer cross‐platform support and deal with frequent roaming of mobile nodes is our main concern. Therefore, this paper provides a service migration framework using mobile agent in MEC environment and performance evaluation. Experiments with tasks of different complexity show that in terms of efficiency of service migration, mobile agent technology obviously outperforms container technology. The main contributions of this paper include the following: (1) we solve the problem that too many auxiliary modules were used in the container architecture, (2) we use the agent container and the resource manager (RM) for performance evaluations to investigate the differences between mobile agent and container technology, and (3) we use the decision tree to confirm the execution cost of each node so as to analyze why the mobile agent responds to migration commands slowly.
Stability of phosphatidylethanol 16:0/18:1 in authentic and spiked whole blood
Authors: Dumitrascu Catalina , van de Lavoir Maria C.A. , Neels Hugo , Covaci Adrian , Jacobs Werner , D'Hondt Diona , van Nuijs Alexander L.N.
Published: January 2021

Phosphatidylethanol 16:0/18:1 (PEth) is the most abundant homologue of the phosphatidylethanol group of phospholipids. Formed only in the presence of ethanol, PEth is used as a biomarker in whole blood to provide information about the consumption of alcohol. As information on the storage life of PEth is essential for its beneficial use as a biomarker, this study investigated the stability of PEth in spiked and authentic whole blood samples stored at 4°C. Human whole blood samples (n = 23) and spiked whole blood samples (n = 7) with a concentration range between 5 and 2000 ng/ml were analysed at specific time intervals, up to 90 days. Differences were evident between the stability of authentic and spiked samples. PEth was stable at 4°C for 60 days (concentrations within 15% of initial concentration) in authentic samples, whereas spiked samples were stable for up to 30 days. This study emphasizes the importance of including authentic samples in stability experiments.
Temperature‐Induced Reversible Phase Transition with Switchable Dielectric Response in a A2BX4‐Type Hybrid Compound: [TEAMA]2[CdBr4] (TEAMA=(CH3CH2)3NCH3)
Authors: Wang Qin‐Wen , Gong Zhi‐Xin , Ye Le , Ma Jia‐Jun , Xu Qi , Li Jian‐Rong , Ye Heng‐Yun
Published: January 2021

Low‐symmetric quasi‐spherical cations have been widely used in halogenometallate hybrids to increase the incidence of stimulus‐responsive crystal structures. In this paper, we successfully used triethylmethylammonium bromide and cadmium bromide for self‐assembly to obtain a A2BX4‐type hybrid compound [TEAMA]2[CdBr4] (TEAMA=(CH3CH2)3NCH3, 1) showing phase transition temperature (Tc) of 333 K above room temperature. Various‐temperature structures of 1 have been measured by X‐ray diffraction. We conclude, the phase transition property of 1 induced by thermal stimulation stems from the thermal ellipsoids of the [TEAMA]+ become strikingly larger with the increase of the temperature. The dynamics of the dipoles is the key to construct hybrid molecule‐based switchable dielectrics by motional changes of polar components at different phases. Furthermore, the dielectric properties have also been mentioned and discussed in great detail.
MesPX2/IsPX2 as Precursors for the Preparation of Phosphasilenes
Authors: Liu Yashuai , Keil Helena , Zhong Mingdong , Li Jiancheng , Yang Zhi , Herbst‐Irmer Regine , Stalke Dietmar , Roesky Herbert W.
Published: January 2021

The one‐pot reaction of L1SiCl (L1=PhC(NtBu)2) with MesPX2/IsPX2 (X=Cl, Br; Is=2,4,6‐iPr3C6H2, Mes=2,4,6‐Me3C6H2) in the presence of KC8 yielded two phosphasilene compounds L1Si(Cl)=PIs (1) and L1Si(Cl)=PMes (2) with interesting Cl−Si=P characteristics. The introduction of Cl−Si=P moiety improved the reactivity of phosphasilene. Furthermore, phosphasilenes 1 and 2 with LSi as well as Si=P building units are sensitive to moisture with distinct differences. The hydrolysis of 2 resulted in two products [L1(PHMes)Si]2(μ‐O)2 (3) and L1Cl (4), respectively, due to the amount of water, while the hydrolysis of 1 afforded L1Cl (4). In addition to the silylene L1SiCl, different types of aluminum compounds were studied to react with IsPX2/MesPX2 in the presence of KC8 in THF at low temperature. However, we failed to isolate the desired compounds due to the formation of numerous by‐products.
Nasopharyngeal swab‐induced pain for SARS‐CoV‐2 screening: A randomised controlled trial of conventional and self‐swabbing
Authors: Moisset Xavier , Gautier Nicolas , Godet Thomas , Parabère Solène , Pereira Bruno , Meunier Estelle , Gerbaud Laurent , Lesens Olivier , Henquell Cécile , Beytout Jean , Clavelou Pierre
Published: January 2021

Background

Massive screening campaigns for SARS‐CoV‐2 are currently carried out throughout the world, relying on reverse‐transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) following nasopharyngeal swabbing performed by a healthcare professional. Yet, due to the apprehension of pain induced by nasopharyngeal probing, poor adhesion to those screening campaigns can be observed. To enhance voluntary participation and to avoid unnecessary exposition to SARS‐CoV‐2, self‐swabbing could be proposed. To date, no data have been published concerning pain induced by conventional‐ or self‐swabbing. Thus, the primary objective of the present study was to evaluate pain induced with the conventional swabbing method and compare it to self‐swabbing. Secondary objectives focused on swabbing‐induced discomfort and acceptability of the two methods.

Methods

The study was conducted in Clermont‐Ferrand medical school (France). Overall, 190 students were randomised into two groups and experienced either self‐ or conventional‐swabbing. Each subject had to rate pain, discomfort and acceptability of such swabbing on a 0–10 numeric rating scale.

Results

No significant difference was found between the two methods. The mean pain level was 2.5 ± 1.9, 28% rating pain as ≥4/10. Discomfort was 4.8 ± 2.2, 66% indicating significant (≥4/10) discomfort. Higher pain and discomfort were associated with female sex. Acceptability was ≥8/10 for 89.0% of the subjects and all would have accepted to undergo a new test with the same technique if necessary.

Conclusion

Both conventional and self‐swabbing induce low levels of pain for most young healthy volunteers whereas discomfort is very frequent. Nonetheless, both methods are indifferently well‐accepted in medical students. Future studies amongst symptomatic subjects are awaited.

Significance

Using the thinnest available swabs, procedural pain induced by nasopharyngeal swabbing for SARS‐CoV‐2 screening is very low for most subjects and should not limit voluntary participation in screening campaigns. Self‐swabbing does not lead to more pain or discomfort compared to conventional swabbing, is well‐accepted, and could be proposed to optimize screening campaigns, at least in healthcare professionals.