bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Encouraging signs of re‐imagination in higher education
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: August 2021

Higher education is in the midst of change embraced by some and feared by others. Change will come. It is inevitable. Like many residuals left in the wake of the pandemic, the student‐consumer market will determine how fast it will come to higher education and how permanent it will be.
AOP Report: Uncoupling of Oxidative Phosphorylation Leading to Growth Inhibition via Decreased Cell Proliferation
Authors: Song You , Villeneuve Daniel L.
Published: August 2021

This report describes a novel adverse outcome pathway (AOP) on uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) leading to growth inhibition via decreased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) pool and cell proliferation (AOPWiki, AOP263). Oxidative phosphorylation is a major metabolic process that produces the primary form of energy (ATP) supporting various biological functions. Uncoupling of OXPHOS is a widely recognized mode of action of many chemicals and is known to affect growth via different biological processes. Capturing these events in an AOP can greatly facilitate mechanistic understanding and hazard assessment of OXPHOS uncouplers and growth regulators in eukaryotes. The four proposed key events in this AOP are intentionally generalized to cover a wide range of organisms and stressors. Three out of four events can be measured using in vitro high-throughput bioassays, whereas for most organisms, growth inhibition can also be measured in a high-throughput format using standard in vivo toxicity test protocols. The key events and key event relationships in this AOP are further assessed for weight of evidence using evolved Bradford-Hill considerations. The overall confidence levels range from moderate to high with only a few uncertainties and inconsistencies. The chemical applicability domain of the AOP mainly contains protonophores uncouplers, which can be predicated using the quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) approach and validated using in vitro high-throughput bioassays. The biological domain of the AOP basically covers all eukaryotes. The AOP described in this report is part of a larger AOP network linking uncoupling of OXPHOS to growth inhibition, and is considered highly relevant and applicable to both human health and ecological risk assessments.
Effects of high heat flux exposures on tensile strength of firefighters' protective clothing
Authors: Ohalele Henry U. , Fulton Mackenzie , Torvi David A. , Noble Scott D. , Batcheller Jane C.
Published: August 2021

The effects of thermal aging on tensile strength of three Kevlar/PBI blends used in the outer shell layer of firefighters' protective clothing were examined using cone calorimeter exposures of 10‐70 kW/m2 for 30‐300 seconds. Lower heat flux exposures of 10‐15 kW/m2 did not result in significant change in the tensile strength of the fabrics, but significant losses of tensile strength were first observed as the heat fluxes increased to 20‐30 kW/m2 for two ripstop fabrics, and 45 kW/m2 for the third fabric. Further decreases in tensile strength were observed with increasing heat flux until there was almost a total loss of original tensile strength following exposure to 70 kW/m2. Decreases in tensile strength were explained by comparing fabric temperature measurements made using an infrared thermometer, key temperatures in thermal gravimetric analysis test results, and the appearance of the three fabrics after the exposures. While duration of exposure had little effect on tensile strength after exposures to 10 kW/m2, tensile strength decreased with duration of exposure for heat fluxes of 20‐40 kW/m2. The effect of duration was greatest for a heat flux of 20 kW/m2. These results indicate that one must consider not only the maximum temperature that the fabric reaches, but the complete temperature‐time trace, including the time at which the fabric remains at the maximum temperature, when examining the effects of thermal aging on tensile strength.
Fruit and vegetable consumption and serum vitamin A in lactating women: A cross‐sectional survey in urban China
Authors: Yang Chenlu , Zhao Ai , Lan Hanglian , Zhang Jian , Ren Zhongxia , Szeto Ignatius Man‐Yau , Wang Peiyu , Zhang Yumei
Published: August 2021

During the lactation period, healthy eating behavior is essential to maternal and child health. However, Chinese lactating women may have some traditional food restrictions. Our aims were to evaluate the fruit and vegetable consumption of Chinese lactating women and to examine the associations between fruit and vegetable consumption and serum vitamin A concentrations. A total of 885 participants were included. Dietary intakes were assessed during the same time frame as blood collection via a one‐time 24‐h dietary recall (24HDR) and a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire (SFFQ), respectively. Serum vitamin A concentrations were assessed with high‐performance liquid chromatography. Based on 24HDR, 64.7% and 85.5% of lactating women did not consume the appropriate amount of fruits and vegetables, respectively. New mothers who adopt zuo yuezi behavior during the first month were negatively associated with fruit consumption. The median (25th to 75th) dietary vitamin A intake was 349.5 (202.5–591.4) μg RAE/day. Vegetable contributed 24.9% and fruit 4.8% of the dietary vitamin A intake. The median (25th to 75th) serum vitamin A concentration was 1.92 (1.61–2.30) μmol/L. 24HDR assessments of total fruit and vegetable consumption, and fruit consumption were positively associated with higher serum vitamin A concentrations, respectively (β = 0.200, 95%CI = 0.077, 0.323, p = .001; β = 0.241, 95%CI = 0.008, 0.474, p = .044). These positive associations were replicated in the SFFQ assessments (β = 0.102, 95%CI = 0.016, 0.188, p = .020; β = 0.215, 95%CI = 0.088, 0.341, p = .001). Chinese lactating women had inappropriate fruit and vegetable consumption. Fruit and vegetable consumption was associated with serum vitamin A concentrations.
Balanced and unbalanced translocations in a multicentric series of 2843 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Costa Dolors , Granada Isabel , Espinet Blanca , Collado Rosa , Ruiz‐Xivillé Neus , Puiggros Anna , Uribe Marisol , Arias Amparo , Gómez Cándida , Delgado Julio , Pereira Arturo , Magnano Laura , Colomer Dolors , López Cristina , Beà Sílvia
Published: August 2021

Chromosomal translocations in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are very rare, and therefore systematic analysis of large series of cases is needed to allow the identification of recurrent rearrangements, breakpoints involved, and target genes. The aims of the present study were to identify new translocations and their clinical impact and to establish their frequency in a large cohort of 2843 CLL patients. By conventional cytogenetics 250 translocations were identified in 215 (7.5%) patients, 186 (74%) were apparently balanced and 64 (26%) were unbalanced. All chromosomes were involved in translocations, except Y chromosome. The chromosomes more frequently translocated were in decreasing frequency chromosomes 14, 18, 13, 17, 1, 6, 2, 3, 8, and 11. Translocations were found in the karyotypes either as the unique chromosomal abnormality (27%), associated with another alteration (24%), or as a part of a complex karyotype (CK, 48%). A large proportion of rearranged breakpoints involved genes related to CLL such as IGH (14q32), RB1, MIR15A, MIR16‐1 (13q14), BCL2 (18q21), IGL (22q11.2), TP53 (17p13), IRF4 (6p25‐p23), ATM (11q22), and CDK6 (7q21). Overall, 76 novel CLL translocations were identified, including a recurrent t(8;11)(p21;q21‐23). Whole‐genome sequencing and/or copy‐number microarray data of 24 cases with translocations confirmed all rearrangements, enabled refinement of 3 karyotypes and all breakpoints at gene level. The projected survival and time to first treatment significantly decreased linearly with the number of translocations. In summary, this study allowed to establish the frequency of translocations (7.5%) and to identify new translocations in a cohort of 2843 CLL patients.
Experimental investigations on melt coolability with simulated decay heat—The influence of delay time in flooding
Authors: Munot Samyak S. , Nayak Arun K. , Joshi Jyeshtharaj B.
Published: August 2021

The primary objective of core catchers is to minimize the potential risk of core meltdown by stabilization and cooling of molten corium within the reactor containment for a prolonged period by strategically cooling it. Quenching of the high‐temperature melt by top flooding strongly depends on the timing of injection of the cooling water, that is, immediate flooding or delayed flooding. To understand this aspect, we conducted experiments in a simulated core catcher of an Indian advanced nuclear reactor. In the experiments, sodium borosilicate glass, as a mixture of corium and sacrificial material simulant, was melted at about 1200°C and cooled by water from the side of a simulated core catcher and then flooding at the top of the melt pool. Two experiments were conducted; the first one was done with immediate flooding at the top of the melt pool; the second was performed with delayed top flooding of 45 min gap. The results show that immediate flooding quenches the melt pool rapidly compared to delayed flooding. A stable crust formation at the top of the melt pool and wall adhesion is observed in the delayed flooding. It was also found that no ingression of the water in the molten pool occurred with delayed flooding. On the other hand, with immediate flooding, water was found to ingress into the melt pool due to gap formations between melt and core catcher sidewall, causing the melt to break up through eruption by ingressed water. This phenomenon resulted in the formation of sand‐type debris and in faster melt cooling.
Successful treatment with DCF chemotherapy and radiotherapy for primary squamous cell carcinoma of the prostate
Authors: Atagi Kaya , Fukuhara Hideo , Ishiguro Motoyoshi , Osakabe Hiroto , Satoshi Fukata , Tamura Kenji , Karashima Takashi , Inoue Keiji
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the prostate is an extremely rare tumor with poor prognosis. Squamous cell carcinoma of the prostate is estimated to comprise less than 1% of all prostate carcinomas. We report herein a case with clinical response to docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5‐fluorouracil chemotherapy with radiotherapy, in a patient with metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the prostate.

Case presentation

A 74‐year‐old man consulted with frequent urination. The prostate‐specific antigen level was 1.62 ng/mL. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging showed prostate imaging and reporting and data system category 5 for the whole prostate and biopsy was performed. The pathological diagnosis was pure squamous cell carcinoma of the prostate. fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography showed fluorodeoxyglucose accumulation in the whole prostate and multiple pelvic lymph nodes. Four cycles of docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5‐fluorouracil regimen were administrated along with radiotherapy. The patient showed a marked response with no major adverse events.

Conclusion

The present case suggests the potential of docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5‐fluorouracil chemotherapy with radiotherapy for squamous cell carcinoma of the prostate.
Loss of Sprouty Produces a Ciliopathic Skeletal Phenotype in Mice Through Upregulation of Hedgehog Signaling
Authors: Hruba Eva , Kavkova Michaela , Dalecka Linda , Macholan Miloš , Zikmund Tomas , Varecha Miroslav , Bosakova Michaela , Kaiser Jozef , Krejci Pavel , Hovorakova Maria , Buchtova Marcela
Published: August 2021

The Sprouty family is a highly conserved group of intracellular modulators of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-signaling pathways, which have been recently linked to primary cilia. Disruptions in the structure and function of primary cilia cause inherited disorders called ciliopathies. We aimed to evaluate Sprouty2 and Sprouty4 gene-dependent alterations of ciliary structure and to focus on the determination of its association with Hedgehog signaling defects in chondrocytes. Analysis of the transgenic mice phenotype with Sprouty2 and Sprouty4 deficiency revealed several defects, including improper endochondral bone formation and digit patterning, or craniofacial and dental abnormalities. Moreover, reduced bone thickness and trabecular bone mass, skull deformities, or chondroma-like lesions were revealed. All these pathologies might be attributed to ciliopathies. Elongation of the ciliary axonemes in embryonic and postnatal growth plate chondrocytes was observed in Sprouty2−/− and Sprouty2+/−/Sprouty4−/− mutants compared with corresponding littermate controls. Also, cilia-dependent Hedgehog signaling was upregulated in Sprouty2/4 mutant animals. Ptch1 and Ihh expression were upregulated in the autopodium and the proximal tibia of Sprouty2−/−/Sprouty4−/− mutants. Increased levels of the GLI3 repressor (GLI3R) form were detected in Sprouty2/4 mutant primary fibroblast embryonic cell cultures and tissues. These findings demonstrate that mouse lines deficient in Sprouty proteins manifest phenotypic features resembling ciliopathic phenotypes in multiple aspects and may serve as valuable models to study the association between overactivation of RTK and dysfunction of primary cilia during skeletogenesis. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Synthesis and structure confirmation of 7‐ester‐8‐aminomethylene‐substituted baicalein derivatives
Authors: Mou Jiajia , Wang Qiang , Deng Yanru , Chen Danghui , Qiu Shuang
Published: August 2021

Twelve baicalein derivatives, derivatized with 7‐ester and 8‐aminomethylene groups, were synthesized as cyclin‐dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) inhibitors, by the addition of one of four secondary amines to C‐8, using the Mannich reaction, followed by mono‐esterification with one of three carboxylic acids. Analysis by 1H‐, 13C‐NMR, and HMBC spectra, as well as a chemical test, confirmed that the esterification occurred at the 7‐phenolic hydroxyl position of baicalein but not at the 5‐ or 6‐positions.
Disentangling acculturation and enculturation intergenerational gaps: Examining mother–youth value discrepancies and mental health among Mexican‐descent college students
Authors: Manzo Gabriela , Piña‐Watson Brandy , Gonzalez Iliana M. , Garcia Aundrea , Meza Jocelyn I.
Published: August 2021

Objective

To test the acculturation gap hypothesis by examining mother–youth value discrepancies (both acculturative and enculturative) and their association with mother–youth acculturative conflict and youth mental health outcomes.

Method

Participants were 273 Mexican descent college students attending a large, public, Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) in West Texas (72% women). The participants' ages ranged 18–25 years (M = 19.33 years; SD = 1.54 years).

Results

Three models assessed the relationship between mother–youth value discrepancies and mental health outcomes (suicidal ideation, non‐suicidal self‐injury, and depressive symptoms) as mediated by mother–youth acculturative conflict. Consistently, Mexican heritage cultural values were related to mental health outcomes while American cultural values were not.

Conclusions

The study found that increased mother–youth discrepancies on Mexican cultural values were associated with increased negative mental health outcomes. Our findings suggest that adopting or learning new mainstream American values does not substitute for the Mexican cultural values that protect against negative outcomes.
Utilizing MERIT to promote recovery in schizotypal personality disorder: An illustrative case study
Authors: Dmitryeva Nadezhda , Chernov Nikita , Kostyuk Georgiy , Lysaker Paul H.
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Difficulties forming an integrated sense of oneself, others, and one's place in the community have been observed to pose a barrier to recovery from schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD). This has promoted the development of metacognitive approaches to psychotherapy that seek to assist persons in making sense of and managing their psychosocial challenges. One of these approaches, Metacognitive Reflection Insight Therapy (MERIT), has begun to be more broadly explored among adults with schizophrenia. Persons with other forms of SSD, including schizotypal personality disorder (SPD), also experience difficulties forming an integrated sense of themselves and others and could potentially be amenable to MERIT.

Methods

To explore this possibility, this study reports the application of MERIT to an adult with SPD in a unique cultural context.

Results

Evidence of acceptability and meaningful resultant clinical gains are described.

Conclusions

Taken as a whole, this study provides a rich illustration of how metacognition can be successfully targeted by MERIT in forms of SSD potentially less severe than schizophrenia, including SPD in a unique cultural setting.
Misinformation and work‐related outcomes of healthcare community: Sequential mediation role of COVID‐19 threat and psychological distress
Authors: Khan Ali Nawaz
Published: August 2021

By applying coping theory, this study develops and tests a process model investigating the sequential mediating roles of perceived COVID‐19 threat and psychological distress on the relationships between social media misinformation and turnover intentions, and in‐role performance. Hypothesized model for Study 1 was fully supported, showing that the association between social media misinformation and turnover intentions are each mediated sequentially, first by perceived COVID‐19 threat and then by psychological distress. Additional support was found for the sequential mediation model when predicting turnover intentions and in‐role performance in Study 2, using time‐lagged data. Besides, this study found that resilience moderated social media misinformation's sequential indirect effect on turnover intentions and in‐role performance. Implications and future research directions have been discussed.
A newly developed South American Mapping of Temperature with estimated lapse rate corrections
Authors: Rozante José Roberto , Ramirez Enver , Fernandes Alex de Almeida
Published: August 2021

In the present work a recently developed product, the South American Mapping of Temperature (SAMeT), is presented. SAMeT minimizes certain deficiencies associated with both the eventual lack of observations and incorporates temperature corrections due to elevation or lapse rate of temperature (LRT) considerations. SAMeT is based on combinations of observed 2‐m temperatures and ERA5 reanalysis, as well as LRTs values computed from maximum (Tmax) and minimum (Tmin) temperatures. The LRT were computed using a simple linear regression on a 40‐year ERA5 reanalysis dataset and a digital elevation model dataset from Global Digital Elevation (GTOPO30). It was obtained that the computed LRT is consistently smaller than the standard LRT for all the seasons and studied regions. The South American territory was divided into four subdomains and the evaluation performed via a cross validation. This methodology consists in removing 90% of the observations to form OBS90 and generate the SAMeT fields. The remaining 10% (OBS10) is used for validation purposes. An additional dataset, hereafter referred to as OBS90i, is obtained using Kriging interpolation of OBS90 along with GTOPO30 and temperature adjustment by a standard LRT (−6.5°C·km−1). The evaluation period was from January 2011 to December 2013. Thus by using the standard LRT, a systematic negative bias for the temperature is obtained. On the other hand, ERA5 displays underestimation for Tmax and overestimation for Tmin. Furthermore, in comparative terms ERA5 displays the larger errors; thus, it is suggested that a bias remotion is important for any application involving these data. The systematic application of computed values for LRT in addition to a combination between observations and ERA5 data allows SAMeT to generate fields with smaller errors compared to observations than ERA5 while keeping spatial correlations. Thus, the present product brings an innovation to the temperature space fields for the South American region.
Seasonal and subseasonal wind power characterization and forecasting for the Iberian Peninsula and the Canary Islands: A systematic review
Authors: Bayo‐Besteiro Susana , García‐Rodríguez Michael , Labandeira Xavier , Añel Juan A.
Published: August 2021

Renewable energy has a key role to play in the transition towards a low‐carbon society. Despite its importance, relatively little attention has been focused on the crucial impact of weather and climate on energy demand and supply, or the generation or operational planning of renewable technologies. In particular, to improve the operation and longer‐term planning of renewables, it is essential to consider seasonal and subseasonal weather forecasting. Unfortunately, reports that focus on these issues are not common in scientific literature. This paper presents a systematic review of the seasonal forecasting of wind and wind power for the Iberian Peninsula and the Canary Islands, a region leading the world in the development of renewable energies (particularly wind) and thus an important illustration in global terms. To this end, we consider the scientific literature published over the last 13 years (2008–2021). An initial search of this literature produced 14,293 documents, but our review suggests that only around 0.2% are actually relevant to our purposes. The results show that the teleconnection patterns (North Atlantic Oscillation [NAO], East Atlantic [EA] and Scandinavian [SCAND]) and the stratosphere are important sources of predictability of winds in the Iberian Peninsula. We conclude that the existing literature in this crucial area is very limited, which points to the need for increased research efforts, that could lead to great returns. Moreover, the approach and methods developed here could be applied to other areas for which systematic reviews might be either useful or necessary.
Value of Echogenic Foci in Diagnosing Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma and Predicting Aggressive Biological Behavior
Authors: Wang Guojuan , Nie Fang , Wang Yanfang , Wang Peihua , Wang Lan , Fan Xiao , Ma Zhenxian
Published: August 2021

Objectives

To assess the diagnostic value of echogenic foci in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and the relationship between echogenic foci and aggressiveness of PTC.

Methods

From January 2018 to January 2021, a total of 950 patients diagnosed with thyroid nodules (n = 1113) in our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Among the 1113 nodules, single PTC in 527 patients confirmed by surgery was studied for their aggressive biological behavior. The patterns of echogenic foci were classified as: no echogenic foci, sparse punctate echogenic foci, focal punctate echogenic foci, diffuse punctate echogenic foci, petal‐like punctate echogenic foci, comet‐tail artifacts, coarse echogenic foci, peripheral rim (eggshell echogenic foci), and mixed echogenic foci. The clinical and ultrasonographic characteristics were also analyzed. A univariate analysis was performed, and binary logistic regression was performed to screen independent risk factors.

Results

For the differential diagnosis of PTC, age < 50 years, size <1.1 cm, hypoechoic or very hypoechoic, aspect ratio > 1, irregular shape, types II (punctate echogenic foci) and VI (mixed echogenic foci) were independent risk factors. For the aggressive biological behavior of PTC, male sex, age<42 years, size <1.0 cm, types IIb (focal punctate echogenic foci), IIc (diffuse punctate echogenic foci), and VI (mixed echogenic foci) were independent risk factors for predicting cervical lymph node metastasis of PTC.

Conclusion

Echogenic foci are useful in diagnosing PTC and predicting aggressiveness of PTC, which contribute to screening invasive PTC and avoiding overdiagnosis and overtreatment.
Age and Comorbidities Impact Medical Complications and Mortality Following Free Flap Reconstruction
Authors: Sweeny Larissa , Curry Joseph M. , Crawley Meghan B. , DiLeo Michael , Bonaventure Caroline A. , Luginbuhl Adam J. , Guice Kelsie M. , Taghizadeh Farshid , McCreary Eleanor , Buncke Michelle , Petrisor Daniel , Wax Mark K.
Published: August 2021

Objective

Determine if age correlated with surgical or medical complications following head and neck free flap reconstruction.

Study Design

Retrospective review of prospectively collected databases.

Methods

Patients undergoing head and neck free flap reconstruction at three tertiary care institutions were included (n = 1972). Cohorts were based on age (<65, 65–75, 75–85, and >85). Outcomes reviewed operative duration, length of stay, surgical complications (free flap failure, fistula, hematoma, dehiscence, and infection), and medical complications (thromboembolism, stroke, cardiac, and pulmonary).

Results

Anatomic site (P < .0001) and donor site varied by age (P < .0001). There was no difference in operative duration (P = .3) or length of hospitalization (P = .8) by age. The incidence of medical complications increased with increasing age. Pulmonary complication rates: <65 (3.9%), 65 to 75 (4.8%), 75 to 85 (7.1%), and >85 (11%) (P = .02). Cardiac complication rates: <65 (2.0%), 65 to 75 (7.3%), 75 to 85 (6.1%), and >85 (16.4%) (P < .0001). Mortality increased with age: <65 (0.4%), 65 to 75 (0.8%), 75 to 85 (1.1%), and >85 (4.1%) (P < .003). Medical complications correlated with mortality rates: pulmonary (3.5% vs. 0.6%; OR: 5.5; 95% CI: 1.5–20.0; P = .004); cardiac (3.3% vs. 0.6%; OR: 6.0; 95% CI: 1.6–21.8; P = .002); thromboembolism (4.6% vs. 0.7%; OR: 7.3; 95% CI: 1.6–33.6; P = .003); stroke (42% vs. 0.5%; OR: 149; 95% CI: 40–558; P < .0001); and sepsis (5% vs. 0.7%; OR 7.5; 95% CI: 1.0–60.5; P = .03). Age did not correlate with free flap success (P = .5), surgical complications (hematoma, P = .33; fistula, P = .23; infection, P = .07; and dehiscence, P = .37), or thirty‐day readmission (P = .3).

Conclusion

Following free flap reconstruction, patient age did not correlate with development of a surgical complication. Patient age did correlate with development of a medical complication. Postoperative medical complications were found to correlate with perioperative mortality.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 132:772–780, 2022
Telecoupling urbanization and mountain areas deforestation between 2000 and 2020: Evidence from Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Xiong Bo , Chen Ruishan , An Li , Zhang Qi , Xia Zilong
Published: August 2021

Forest transition theory posits that socioeconomic development in a country or region may cause its forestland to shift from net loss to net gain. However, forest transition may also occur under various policies, resulting in forest gains in some regions but deforestation in other regions. We used the telecoupling framework to address this crucially important issue that has rarely been examined. Using time series satellite images and statistical yearbook data from 2000 to 2020, this study seeks to understand land use change patterns, the corresponding regional spillover effects, and the driving forces behind such patterns in Zhejiang Province, China. The results show that large‐scale continuous deforestation has taken place since 2000, causing a total loss of forestland by 22,823 ha. In parallel with this forest loss and a slight decrease in arable land, urban construction land has soared by 169.45%. We found that more developed municipalities such as Hangzhou witnessed increases in urban land at the expense of large‐scale deforestation in less developed municipalities such as Lishui. This cross‐region land use change pattern may arise from the balance of arable land system (BALS) policy that seeks to achieve a goal of no net loss of arable land. Land use policy—such as the BALS policy—must strike a good balance among competitive land uses that have different objectives such as residents' living, ecology, and production. In addition to enriching the forest transition theory, this study provides a solid basis for future land use decisions in developing regions or countries.
Early phase clinical studies of AR‐42, a histone deacetylase inhibitor, for neurofibromatosis type 2‐associated vestibular schwannomas and meningiomas
Authors: Welling D. Bradley , Collier Katharine A. , Burns Sarah S. , Oblinger Janet L. , Shu Edina , Miles‐Markley Beth A. , Hofmeister Craig C. , Makary Mina S. , Slone H. Wayne , Blakeley Jaishri O. , Mansouri S. Alireza , Neff Brian A. , Jackler Robert K. , Mortazavi Amir , Chang Long‐Sheng
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Two pilot studies of AR‐42, a pan‐histone deacetylase inhibitor, in human neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), vestibular schwannomas (VS), and meningiomas are presented. Primary endpoints included safety, and intra‐tumoral pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD).

Methods

Pilot 1 is a subset analysis of a phase 1 study of AR‐42 in solid tumors, which included NF2 or sporadic meningiomas. Tumor volumes and treatment‐related adverse events (TRAEs) are reported (NCT01129193).

Pilot 2 is a phase 0 surgical study of AR‐42 assessing intra‐tumoral PK and PD. AR‐42 was administered for 3 weeks pre‐operatively. Plasma and tumor drug concentrations and p‐AKT expression were measured (NCT02282917).

Results

Pilot 1: Five patients with NF2 and two with sporadic meningiomas experienced a similar incidence of TRAEs to the overall phase I trial. The six evaluable patients had 15 tumors (8 VS, 7 meningiomas). On AR‐42, tumor volume increased in six, remained stable in eight, and decreased in one tumor. The annual percent growth rate decreased in eight, remained stable in three, and increased in four tumors. Pilot 2: Four patients with sporadic VS and one patient with meningioma experienced no grade 3/4 toxicities. Expression of p‐AKT decreased in three of four VS. All tumors had higher AR‐42 concentrations than plasma.

Conclusions

AR‐42 is safe. Tumor volumes showed a mixed response, but most slowed growth. On a 40‐mg regimen, drug concentrated in tumors and growth pathways were suppressed in most tumors, suggesting this may be a well‐tolerated and effective dose. A phase 2 study of AR‐42 for NF2‐associated tumors appears warranted.

Level of Evidence

1b, 4.
A Brief Overview of Room Temperature Na‐S Batteries Using Composite Sulfur Cathode
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Mishra Kuldeep
Published: August 2021

The research interests on sodium‐sulfur (Na‐S) batteries which have regained the worldwide attention from last few years. Na‐S battery technology seems a good choice for future grid level stationary energy storage units where the cost is as important as the performance from practical applications point of view. This paper summarizes basic principle of operation, major benefits, and challenges of room temperature Na‐S batteries using composite sulfur based cathodes. Few recent techniques employed by the research groups to develop composite sulfur cathodes for Na‐S batteries are highlighted including the guidelines for upcoming Na‐S batteries.
Evaluating the Impact of Recreational Harvest and Management Strategies for Bay Scallops Argopecten irradians concentricus in a Florida Gulf Coast Management Zone
Authors: Granneman J. , Baxley C. , Bollinger M. , Heil A. , LaGanke M. , Levine E. , Pearson W. , Pudlak E. , Williams K.
Published: August 2021

Since 1994, the fishery for bay scallops Argopecten irradians concentricus in Florida has been limited to a recreational fishery that operates during the summer, before the spawning season in fall. Recent growth of the fishery necessitates a study of the effect of this increased exploitation on the bay scallop population. The study focused on one management zone, centered on the community of Steinhatchee, that is known for high rates of exploitation. Within this zone, we created a model of bay scallop harvest using fishery-independent and fishery-dependent survey methods and evaluated the risk of extirpation of the stock. We found that the fishery in the zone functions as a derby, with most harvest effort occurring when the season opens, followed by a steady decline throughout the season. Effort estimates suggest that 21,579 vessels, or 82,398 people, from 94% of Florida’s counties and 16 other states participated in the 2018 season in the Steinhatchee zone. The influx of harvesters generated approximately US$1.8 million in revenue for this small coastal community and resulted in an estimated fishing mortality of 57–72% of the population in the zone. The exploitation rate of the fishery in 2018 exceeded 0.4, suggesting that the fishery may be unable to sustain itself under current conditions. We evaluated management strategies and found that the bay scallop population in this zone would be in danger of being extirpated if harvest effort doubled, suggesting the need for regular monitoring of effort in this fishery in this zone and probably in the fishery statewide.
Digital apps: One piece of whole‐person mental health care
Authors: Carney Caroline
Published: August 2021

COVID‐19 has put a spotlight on public conversations around mental health and substance use disorders like never before. Over the last 18 months, society has begun to acutely understand the importance of behavioral health, while recognizing and seeking to reduce long‐standing stigmas.
Experimental investigation of Harris Hawk optimization‐based maximum power point tracking algorithm for photovoltaic system under partial shading conditions
Authors: Gali Vijayakumar , Babu B. Chitti , Mutluri Ramesh Babu , Gupta Manoj , Gupta Sunil Kumar
Published: August 2021

An integrated quasi Z‐source DC–DC converter (qZSC) along with Harris Hawk Optimization (HHO)‐based maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm is proposed in this paper to increase the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) system. The qZSC‐based PV system experiences more voltage and current stress during partial shading conditions (PSCs), which causes overheat on qZSC components hence, degrade the efficiency and reliability of the system. Conventional swarm intelligence‐based MPPT algorithms track the GMPP during PSC, but these take longer convergence time and fail to settle at GMPP. This uncertainty of finding the GMPP leads to fluctuations at output of qZSC, hence more stress on the converter components. HHO in tracking the Gmpp eliminates premature local MPPs, enhances convergence speed by expanding the search space for finding the GMPP. The proposed system is developed in MATLAB/Simulink environment and verified the results by developing prototype model in the laboratory by using C2000™ Piccolo™ Launch Pad™, LAUNCHXL‐F28027 controller. The tracking performance of the proposed HHO‐based MPPT algorithm is tested under fast changing and PSCs in comparison with perturb & observe (P&O), particle swarm optimization (PSO), and artificial bee colony (ABC)‐based MPPT algorithms. The simulation and experimental results show that the proposed HHO‐based MPPT algorithm is robust, tracks maximum power point in minimum convergence time in comparison with P&O, PSO and ABC‐based MPPT algorithms. Hence, voltage and current fluctuations at the output of qZSC are reduced. Therefore, voltages and current stress on qZSC components are reduced and the efficiency of the system is improved.
Controlled and time‐scheduled drug delivery: Polyanhydride‐based nanoparticles as ocular medication carriers
Authors: Sheskin Tali , Geyer Orna , Lotan Noah , Sara Sivan Sarit
Published: August 2021

Nanoparticles offer an ideal opportunity for the efficient local anesthetic drug delivery required during and after ocular procedures. Currently available local anesthetic drugs are short acting, which may prevent adequate ocular pain control. Therefore, development of sustained controlled release anesthetic devices for pain control over a relatively short period (up to 48 h) potentially meets various opthalmological analgesic requirements. This study presents preliminary findings for drug delivery using poly(sebacic acid) (PSA) nanoparticles for tetracaine and lidocaine administration. Tetracaine‐ or lidocaine‐loaded PSA nanoparticles were prepared using a double emulsion methodology. Release profiles were similar for both formulations, with 50% cumulative release achieved after 17 h and 23 h for tetracaine and lidocaine, respectively. The release profiles were studied, and data obtained from in vitro experiments were fit to different mathematical models. Based on mathematical models used in this study, drug release from all PSA‐based formulations was diffusion‐controlled, best described by the Higuchi model. Based on preliminary experiments, a hybrid formulation providing a burst effect was designed to counter the fast adsorption of drug expected in the physiological system. This was achieved by coating the lidocaine‐loaded PSA nanoparticles with a gelatin/lidocaine layer. The coating provided accelerated lidocaine release, with 50% cumulative release obtained as early as 7 h compared to 23 h for uncoated nanoparticles. This formulation provided a triphasic release that can treat different pain levels at predetermined timelines. Our results provide new insight into the benefits of using polyanhydrides as a platform for drug delivery in ophthalmology.
Interfacial behavior of graphene carboxyl‐grafted carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites at elevated temperatures: Emphasis on the effect of electrophoretic deposition time
Authors: Gangineni Pavan Kumar , Patnaik Satyaroop , Gupta K. B. N. V. S. Ganesh , Prusty Rajesh Kumar , Ray Bankim Chandra
Published: August 2021

Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) for decorating carbon fibers (CFs) was established to augment the interface of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites and thereby their mechanical performance. In the current work, graphene carboxyl (G‐COOH) was grafted on to CF surface via EPD technique at three different deposition times, that is, 30, 45, and 60 min. The laminates obtained from these modified CFs were subjected to short beam shear (SBS) tests at room temperature (RT) and different elevated temperatures, that is, 70, 100, and 120°C. The effect of deposition time on mechanical behavior at various temperatures was evaluated. Modified composites showed a maximum improvement of ∼25%, ∼16%, and ∼13% in interlaminar shear stress (ILSS) values over neat composite at RT, 70, and 120°C, respectively. However, interestingly 100°C modified composites showed inferior shear behavior in comparison with neat composite. Scanning electron microscopy was used to observe the tested samples to find out the dominant mode of failure.
A Comprehensive Review of Selected Major Categories of Lithium Isotope Separation Techniques
Authors: Murali Arun , Zhang Zongliang , Free Michael L. , Sarswat Prashant K.
Published: August 2021

The ability to generate materials with an enriched isotopic abundance, that is one that differs from natural abundance, is critical in terms of technology. Isotopes are used in a wide range of applications, including radioactive tracers, nondestructive tests, radiotherapy in human medicine, nuclear fuels, and isotope‐substituted compounds for chemistry and biology research, as well as environmental geochemical signature tracers. A commonly discussed research topic is the isotopic separation of various elements—uranium, hydrogen, lithium, and iodine, among many others. Among these isotopes, lithium isotopes are especially important in various applications including strategic areas. These isotopes are light and hence their separation techniques are not very obvious. Herein, all the main categories of Li isotope separation are reviewed in depth with a focus on electrochemical technologies for stable lithium isotope separation.
Solution of the Spectral Problem for (2m,m) Carbon Nanotubes by Green's Function Method
Authors: Malysheva Lyuba
Published: August 2021

The exact solution of the spectral problem for an infinite (2m,m) carbon nanotube (CNT) is obtained from the analytic solution to the Schrödinger equation for the tight‐binding Hückel‐type Hamiltonian. Explicit expressions for Green's functions of chiral (2m,m) CNTs are obtained and the electronic structure of these CNTs is discussed. The (2m,m) nanotubes with a medium‐chiral angle equal to 19.1° are considered as an intermediate case between the thoroughly investigated achiral armchair and zigzag nanotubes.
LiDAR and multispectral imagery predict the occurrence of tree cavities suitable for a cavity‐nesting duck
Authors: Zlonis Edmund J. , Deo Ram , Berdeen James B.
Published: August 2021

Tree cavities are an essential habitat component for wildlife species across diverse taxa, from insects to large mammals. Many of these species are imperiled by loss of cavities. Further, conservation action is hindered by limited information on the spatial distribution of cavities, largely due to difficulties in developing useful models of their presence or abundance. Accurately predicting the fine‐scale, landscape‐wide, spatial distribution of these important habitat features would greatly benefit conservation measures. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of using remotely sensed data, including LiDAR, multispectral imagery, and SAR, to predict the locations of cavities suitable for nesting Wood DucksAix sponsaat fine scales (≤40 × 40 m) and across a broad landscape (~254 000 ha). We used Random Forest models to classify the presence–absence of cavities at four spatial scales of prediction (5, 10, 20, and 40‐m pixels) as well as three groupings of predictor variables (LiDAR‐derived metrics, spatial forest‐inventory variables [derived via LiDAR or imagery], and ancillary remotely sensed data [derived via SAR or imagery]), and then compared the accuracy between models. The 20‐m response‐scale had the highest accuracy. Variables from each of the groupings were important and largely relied on multispectral imagery and LiDAR data. Our final model and predictive map had 84% overall Out of Bag accuracy and, when tested with an independent cavity dataset, correctly identified 80% of trees with suitable cavities as presences. The predictive map can be used by researchers and land‐managers to determine how past management actions have affected cavity availability as well as the locations of habitat complexes for Wood Ducks and, potentially, other secondary‐cavity‐nesting wildlife. In addition, our analysis can serve as a methodological case‐study for cavity‐nesting wildlife in other regions, as the use of remotely sensed data like high‐density LiDAR and multispectral imagery increases.
The impact of information visibility on ordering dynamics in a supply chain: a behavioral perspective
Authors: Gonçalves Paulo , Moshtari Mohammad
Published: August 2021

Previous research on the Bullwhip Effect shows that information visibility—Point‐Of‐Sale (POS) data or supply‐chain partner‐inventory data—can reduce the amplification of orders in a supply chain. This study compiles and analyzes the data from two previous experiments with the beer game (Croson and Donohue, 2003, 2006) to gain insight on the specific mechanisms that decrease order amplification. By structuring the data as a panel and using a fixed‐effects estimation model, we find that additional supply‐chain‐level information (e.g., POS and inventory data) leads subjects to react less aggressively to changes in their own inventory and to pay more attention to the supply line of orders placed. Furthermore, our analysis shows that such effects are more pronounced for upstream subjects. Our findings provide insight into the role that additional supply‐chain information play on subjects' orders in the beer game. © 2021 The Authors. System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.
Multiple imputation of semi‐continuous exposure variables that are categorized for analysis
Authors: Nguyen Cattram D. , Moreno‐Betancur Margarita , Rodwell Laura , Romaniuk Helena , Carlin John B. , Lee Katherine J.
Published: August 2021

Semi‐continuous variables are characterized by a point mass at one value and a continuous range of values for remaining observations. An example is alcohol consumption quantity, with a spike of zeros representing non‐drinkers and positive values for drinkers. If multiple imputation is used to handle missing values for semi‐continuous variables, it is unclear how this should be implemented within the standard approaches of fully conditional specification (FCS) and multivariate normal imputation (MVNI). This question is brought into focus by the use of categorized versions of semi‐continuous exposure variables in analyses (eg, no drinking, drinking below binge level, binge drinking, heavy binge drinking), raising the question of how best to achieve congeniality between imputation and analysis models. We performed a simulation study comparing nine approaches for imputing semi‐continuous exposures requiring categorization for analysis. Three methods imputed the categories directly: ordinal logistic regression, and imputation of binary indicator variables representing the categories using MVNI (with two variants). Six methods (predictive mean matching, zero‐inflated binomial imputation, and two‐part imputation methods with variants in FCS and MVNI) imputed the semi‐continuous variable, with categories derived after imputation. The ordinal and zero‐inflated binomial methods had good performance across most scenarios, while MVNI methods requiring rounding after imputation did not perform well. There were mixed results for predictive mean matching and the two‐part methods, depending on whether the estimands were proportions or regression coefficients. The results highlight the need to consider the parameter of interest when selecting an imputation procedure.
Nanoporous B13C2 towards Highly Efficient Electrochemical Nitrogen Fixation
Authors: Lan Jiao , Luo Min , Han Jiuhui , Peng Ming , Duan Huigao , Tan Yongwen
Published: August 2021

The electrochemical nitrogen fixation under mild conditions is a promising alternative to the current nitrogen industry with high energy consumption and greenhouse gas emission. Here, a nanoporous boron carbide (np‐B13C2) catalyst is reported for electrochemical nitrogen fixation, which is fabricated by the combination of metallurgical alloy design and chemical etching. The resulting np‐B13C2 exhibits versatile catalytic activities towards N2 reduction reactions (NRR) and N2 oxidation reaction (NOR). A high NH3 yield of 91.28 µg h−1 mgcat.−1 and Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 35.53% at −0.05 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode are obtained for NRR, as well as long‐term stability of up to 70 h, making them among the most active NRR electrocatalysts. This catalyst can also achieve a NO3− yield of 165.8 µg h−1 mgcat.−1 and a FE of 8.4% for NOR. In situ Raman spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations reveal that strong coupling between the BC sites modulates the electronic structures of adjacent B atoms of B13C2, which enables the B sites to effectively adsorb and activate chemical inert N2 molecules, resulting in lowered energy required by the potential‐determining step. Besides, the introduction of carbon can increase the inherent conductivity and reduce the binding energy of the reactants, thus improving N2 fixation performance.