bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence Mechanism of HSLA Weld Metal with Different Composition on High‐Temperature Strength
Authors: Song Liang , Peng Yun , Zhao Haiyan , Cao Yang
Published: May 2022

In order to study the influence mechanism of HSLA weld metal with different composition on high‐temperature strength, four kinds of HSLA weld metal are designed by using low‐carbon Si–Mn and Si–Mn–Ni alloy system. Different samples are prepared by simple process of normalizing and high‐temperature tempering. The experimental results show that the weld metal is mainly composed of polygonal ferrite, quasipolygonal ferrite, pearlite, and granular bainite. Ni can change the microstructure shape of reheating zone and inhibit the formation of granular bainite. When the tempering temperature is lower than 580 °C, the strength increases. After tempering at 580 °C, the tensile strength and yield strength reach the peak value. When the tempering temperature exceeds 580 °C, the strength begins to decrease. The microhardness of the two alloy systems decreases gradually from columnar crystal zone to recrystallization zone. The impact absorption energy of the four samples is greater than 200 J at 600 °C. Under different temperature conditions, the content of Ni in all second‐phase particles is less than 10%, the content of Mn is lower, and the content of Si is higher.
Effects of Cr/Fe Ratio on Structural Evolution and Tensile Properties of the Fe75.7−xCrxNi15.1Al4.6Ti4.6 High‐Entropy Alloys
Authors: Ji Yu , Zhang Long , Lu Xing , Pang Jingyu , Lu Yunzhuo , Zhu Zhengwang , Fu Huameng , Zhang Hongwei , Li Hong , Zhang Haifeng
Published: May 2022

According to the effect of valence electron concentration (VEC) on the phase evolution of high‐entropy alloys (HEAs), Fe75.7−xCrxNi15.1Al4.6Ti4.6 (at%, x = 17.1, 18.9, 20.6, 22.3, and 25.3) HEAs are designed. Effects of the Cr addition on the microstructure and tensile properties are investigated systemically. As the Cr/Fe ratio increases (i.e., decreasing VEC), there is a phase transition from face‐centered‐cubic (FCC) to body‐centered‐cubic (BCC) and Heusler‐type β′ ‐Ni2TiAl (L21). When x is between 17.1 and 22.3, the alloys, with the mixed structure of the FCC and BCC/L21 phases, behave like composites with a sharp increase in strength but reduced ductility. When x = 25.3, the alloy, with only BCC/L21 phases, becomes extremely brittle. Specifically, Fe56.8Cr18.9Ni15.1Al4.6Ti4.6 exhibits a good combination of a high strength of 1142 MPa and an elongation strain of 9.5%. The excellent tensile properties of this alloy are attributed to the synergetic effects of a soft FCC phase, a hard BCC phase, and the uniform distribution of high‐density L21 nanoparticles in BCC matrix. The phase‐evolution principle is delineated by parameters of the VEC and the atomic size difference (δ), and the strengthening mechanism is well discussed. These findings offer a guidance for the development of BCC/L21‐containing HEAs for practical applications.
Scalable Fabrication of Bioinspired Controllable Dry Adhesive by Roll‐to‐Roll Slitting
Authors: Pang Chohei , Mak Kinwing , Tse Yu Alexander , Yu Hongyu , Wang Michael Yu
Published: May 2022

Controllable dry adhesives have attracted significant interest; however, their development and application remain limited owing to their high cost, complexity, and machine precision required for their fabrication. Herein, a scalable roll‐to‐roll technique for fabricating wedge‐shaped controllable dry adhesives for use in robotic grasping tasks is developed. Wedge‐shaped structures with various geometrical dimensions are manufactured, and the structure with optimal wedge dimension (50 μm width and 30° tip angle) demonstrates peak and stable normal adhesion values of 14 and 6.8 kPa, respectively. Moreover, parallel grippers are designed to grasp everyday objects that have flat surfaces and a variety of geometries and surface textures. This novel scalable, low‐cost, and simple method can be used to manufacture a straight and continuous wedge structure in large scale for controllable dry adhesives that can be effectively applied in robotic manipulation tasks.
Regulating Li‐ion Flux through a Dense yet Highly Ionic Conductive Interlayer for Stable Li Deposition
Authors: Huang Zhijia , Han Zhiyuan , Jiang Baozheng , Zhang Yunbo , Gu Sichen , Zhang Chen , Pan Zhengze , Nishihara Hirotomo , Yang Quan‐Hong , Lv Wei
Published: May 2022

The practical use of Li metal anode is severely hindered by the uncontrollable dendrite growth, and the main cause is the uneven deposition of Li metal. In the liquid electrolyte, the Li‐ion distribution on the electrode surface is difficult to be regulated, which largely affects the Li deposition behavior. The authors design a dense Li‐ion flux regulating layer on the separator to well guide the Li‐ion transport that is composed of metal/lithium oxide (Li2O). Such a layer is generated from the in situ lithiation of transition metal oxide nanoparticle (TMO NP) coating, in which the lithiation‐induced volume expansion of TMO NPs makes the coating very dense yet highly ionic conductive due to the rich boundaries between the formed metal/Li2O. Such a layer enables the redistribution of Li ions on the surface of the electrode to effectively suppress the dendrite growth. The symmetric cells with such layers maintain stable cycling over 400 h under 3 mA cm–2, and the full cell coupled with LiFePO4 presents a highly stable cycling performance with high‐capacity retention of 85.2% after 350 cycles at 0.5 C with a low N/P ratio, promising a potential application in next‐generation Li metal batteries.
Asymmetric Synthesis of Spirooxazolidinone Oxindoles by the Thiourea‐Catalyzed Aldol Reaction of 2‐Isocyanatomalonate Diesters
Authors: Chen Xiao‐Pan , Liu Jin‐Xin , Li Hong‐Yan , Xiao You‐Cai , Chen Fen‐Er
Published: May 2022

A tertiary amino‐thiourea catalyzed asymmetric aldol reaction between 2‐isocyanatomalonate esters and isatins has been achieved. Optical active spirooxazolidinone oxindole derivatives could be obtained with excellent yields (80%–96%) and enantioselectivities (67%–99% ee) under mild conditions, providing an updated example to apply isatins as the electrophile in the asymmetric aldol reaction with 2‐isocyanatomalonate esters.

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Selective 5‐Exo‐Dig versus 6‐Endo‐Dig Cyclization of Benzoimidazole Thiols with Propargyl Alcohols
Authors: Goulart Tales A. C. , Recchi Ana M. S. , Back Davi F. , Zeni Gilson
Published: May 2022

We describe here the Lewis acid‐promoted cyclization reaction of benzomidazole thiols with propargyl alcohols for the selective synthesis of benzoimidazolo thiazines and benzothiazolo imidazoles. The reaction is regioselective and the solvent controls the formation of products. The systematic study to determine the best reaction conditions revealed that the six‐membered benzoimidazolo thiazines were obtained by reacting the benzoimidazole thiols with propargyl alcohols in the presence of boron trifluoride etherate, using dichloromethane as the solvent. Replacement of dichloromethane with dimethylformamide, by using the same starting material and reagents, gave selectively the five‐membered benzothiazolo imidazoles. The mechanism of this cyclization was proposed based on the results obtained and several control experiments.

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Revealing the Origin of Low‐Temperature Activity of Ni–Rh Nanostructures during CO Oxidation Reaction with Operando TEM
Authors: Ghosh Tanmay , Liu Xiangwen , Sun Wenming , Chen Meiqi , Liu Yuxi , Li Yadong , Mirsaidov Utkur
Published: May 2022

In bimetallic heterostructured nanoparticles (NPs), the synergistic effect between their different metallic components leads to higher catalytic activity compared to the activity of the individual components. However, how the dynamic changes through which these NPs adopt catalytically active structures during a reaction and how the restructuring affects their activity are largely unknown. Here, using operando transmission electron microscopy, structural changes are studied in bimetallic Ni–Rh NPs, comprising of a Ni core whose surface is decorated with smaller Rh NPs, during a CO oxidation reaction. The direct atomic‐scale imaging reveals that, under O2‐rich conditions, Ni core partially transforms into NiO, forming a (Ni+NiO)–Rh hollow nanocatalyst with high catalytic activity. Under O2‐poor conditions, Rh NPs alloy with the surface of the core to form a NiRh‐alloy surface, and the NPs display significantly lower activity. The theoretical calculations indicate that NiO component that forms only under O2‐rich conditions enhances the activity by preventing the CO poisoning of the nanocatalysts. The results demonstrate that visualizing the structural changes during reactions is indispensable in identifying the origin of catalytic activity. These insights into the dynamic restructuring of NP catalysts under a reactive environment are critical for the rational design of high‐performance nanocatalysts.
Categorization of vocal and nonvocal stimuli in Guinea baboons (Papio papio)
Authors: Ennaji Fatima‐Ezzahra , Fagot Joël , Belin Pascal
Published: May 2022

Categorization of vocal sounds apart from other sounds is one of the key abilities in human voice processing, but whether this ability is present in other animals, particularly nonhuman primates, remains unclear. In the present study, 25 socially housed Guinea baboons (Papio papio) were tested on a vocal/nonvocal categorization task using Go/Nogo paradigm implemented on freely accessible automated learning devices. Three individuals from the group successfully learned to sort Grunt vocalizations from nonvocal sounds, and they generalized to new stimuli from the two categories, indicating that some baboons have the ability to develop open‐ended categories in the auditory domain. Contrary to our hypothesis based on the human literature, these monkeys learned the nonvocal category faster than the Grunt category. Moreover, they failed to generalize their classification to new classes of conspecific vocalizations (wahoo, bark, yak, and copulation calls), and they categorized human vocalizations in the nonvocal category, suggesting that they had failed to represent the task as a vocal versus nonvocal categorization problem. Thus, our results do not confirm the existence of a separate perceptual category for conspecific vocalizations in baboons. Interestingly, the three successful baboons are the youngest of the group, with less training in visual tasks, which supports previous reports of age and learning history as crucial factors in auditory laboratory experiments.
Population densities ofHylobates agilisin forests with different disturbance histories in Ulu Muda Forest Reserve, Malaysia
Authors: Pang Yi Heng , Lappan Susan , Bartlett Thad Q. , Mohd Sah Shahrul Anuar , N. Rosely Nik Fadzly , Ruppert Nadine
Published: May 2022

Small ape habitat throughout Malaysia is rapidly being lost, degraded, and fragmented, and the effects of these changes on the abundance on this taxon are currently unknown. This study assessed the group density ofHylobates agilisin virgin forest, previously logged forest (1960s–1990s), and recently logged forest (2015–2017) of the Ulu Muda Forest Reserve (UMFR), Kedah, Malaysia. We conducted fixed‐point active acoustic triangulation at nine survey areas to estimate group density. We used vegetation “speed plots” and satellite imagery to quantify habitat characteristics and used model selection to identify ecological predictors of group density variation. The estimated group density ofH. agilisin UMFR was 4.03 ± 0.14 groups km−2, with an estimated total of 2927 ± 102 groups in areas below 450 m a.s.l. in UMFR. Group density did not differ significantly among habitat types. The best ecological predictors for group density were canopy cover and proportion of deforested area. Areas with recent deforestation were associated with relatively high group densities, suggesting compression of the populations persisting in these habitat types. The consistently high group densities detected in all forest types emphasizes the importance of degraded forest as habitat forH. agilis. Because of the threats to small apes in Malaysia, and the uncertain status of most populations, we recommend a nationwide population census and regular monitoring to inform conservation planning and implementation. Most urgently, we call for immediate and permanent protection of UMFR and other forests in the Greater Ulu Muda landscape to protect the globally significant populations ofH. agilis, as well as other charismatic and threatened megafauna, birds, and flora in the area.
SrZnGeS4: A Dual‐Waveband Nonlinear Optical Material with a Transparency Spanning UV/Vis and Far‐IR Spectral Regions
Authors: Liu Qian‐Qian , Liu Xin , Wu Li‐Ming , Chen Ling
Published: May 2022

Non‐linear optical chalcogenides with a wide band gap (Eg) and excellent NLO properties are key materials for highly desirable multiwaveband tunable optical parametric oscillators (OPOs). We exploit the “electronic structure engineer bucket effect” to develop a novel dual‐waveband SrZnGeS4with an ultrawide transparency window. It exhibits an asymmetricFdd2structure that consists of layers formed by corner‐sharing [ZnGeS6] dimers. SrZnGeS4is transparent from 0.30 to 23.6 μm, spanning the UV‐, vis‐, mid‐ and far‐IR spectral regions and has the widestEg(3.63 eV) in the AeMIIMIVQ4family to date. It exhibits phase matching, high SHG intensities (e.g., 11.0×KDP and 17.5×AGS underλinc=1450 and 950 nm, respectively), and a very high laser‐induced damage threshold (35×AGS). These results not only suggest bright prospects for high‐power laser applications but may also enable applications of the multiwaveband OPO system from the UV‐visible to far‐IR regions.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms located in TNFA, IL1RN, IL6R, and IL6 genes are associated with COVID‐19 risk and severity in an Iranian population
Authors: Rokni Mohsen , Sarhadi Mohammad , Heidari Nia Milad  , Mohamed Khosroshahi Leila , Asghari Somaye , Sargazi Saman , Mirinejad Shekoufeh , Saravani Ramin
Published: May 2022

Cytokines play pivotal functions in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pathogenesis. However, little is known about the rationale and importance of genetic variations associated with immune system responses, so‐called “immunogenetic profiling.” We studied whether polymorphisms of IL6, IL6R, TNFA, and IL1RN affect the disorder severity and outcome in patients infected with COVID19. We recruited 317 hospitalized patients with laboratory‐confirmed COVID‐19 from Bu‐Ali hospital and 317 high‐risk participants who had high exposure to COVID‐19 patients but with a negative real‐time‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Multiple regression analyses were applied. We indicated that participants carrying the A allele in TNFA‐rs361525, G>A (p < .004), the C allele in IL1RN‐rs419598 T>C (p < .004), the A allele in IL6R‐rs2228145, A>C (p = .047) are more susceptible to develop COVID‐19. In contrast, those who carry the G allele of IL6‐rs2069827, G>T (p = .01), are more protected from COVID‐19. Also, we compared the various genotypes regarding the disorder severity and poor prognosis; we found that the AA genotype in TNFA is related to more aggressive illness and bad prognostic in contrast to the other inflammatory cytokines' genotypes. In addition, a high level of inflammatory indications, such as neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio and systemic immune‐inflammation index, was observed in deceased patients compared with the survived subjects (p < .0001). We advised considering inflammatory cytokines polymorphisms as the main item to realize the therapeutic response against the acute respiratory distress syndrome induced by the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus.
Hydrogenative Catalysis with Three‐Coordinate Zinc Complexes Supported with PN Ligands is Enhanced Compared to PNP Analogs
Authors: Paul Sanchita , Morgante Pierpaolo , MacMillan Samantha N. , Autschbach Jochen , Lacy David C.
Published: May 2022

This work details the synthesis, characterization, and catalytic activity of reactive low‐coordinate organozinc complexes. The complexes activate hydrogen and they appear to be more active in hydrogenation of ketones and imines than their tridentate pincer analogs. This is thought, in part, to be due to the lack of trailing third phosphorus arm present in previous work. DFT computations reveal a sigma‐bond metathesis mechanism is comparable to an alternative aromatization/dearomatization metal‐ligand cooperative mechanism.
Thermally and Optically Activated Migration of Charge Carriers in Alkali Metal Sesquioxides
Authors: Adlung Matthias , Komelj Matej , Wickleder Claudia , Jansen Martin
Published: May 2022

The alkali metal sesquioxides A4O6 (A=K, Rb, Cs) are mixed‐valent with respect to oxygen and display several degrees of electronic and structural freedom, which give rise to diverse transport and ordering processes. We report on analyses of the respective underlying excitations by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and thermally activated electron transport. Backed by DFT based band structure calculations we identify three possible mechanisms, inter valence charge transfer from peroxide to superoxide, excitation across the Jahn‐Teller gap of tilted superoxide anions, and polaron migration. The activation energies as found by the three different approaches are in a rather narrow range of 0.62–0.89 eV for Rb4O6 and 0.49–0.65 eV for Cs4O6, confirming opacity in the full range of visible light. The effect of the phase transition from cubic to tetragonal as demonstrated for the caesium representative corresponds to a marginal shift to higher activation energy.
OMIP‐084: 28‐color full spectrum flow cytometry panel for the comprehensive analysis of human γδ T cells
Authors: Barros‐Martins Joana , Bruni Elena , Fichtner Alina Suzann , Cornberg Markus , Prinz Immo
Published: May 2022

Using full spectrum flow cytometry, we designed a 28‐color panel for the analysis of markers known to be associated with the γδ T cell immune response. This panel allows the classification of γδ T cell subsets via specific V gene usage (Vγ9, Vδ1, Vδ2, and Vδ3) of their T cell receptor (TCR) and according to their functional differentiation. Phenotypical surface receptors to distinguish different stages of cell maturation included CD45RA, CD27, CD28, CD127, CD57, and CD16; chemokine receptors CXCR6, CCR5, CCR6, and CX3CR1; NK‐associated markers NKG2A, NKG2D, CD56, and CD161, checkpoint‐inhibitor PD‐1, and activating receptors CD38 and CD25. T cell lineage markers for the analysis of αβ T cells (CD4 and CD8) and MAIT cells (Vα7.2) were also included. This optimized multicolor panel allows a comprehensive immune‐profiling of all main human γδ T cell subsets and is suitable for longitudinal or exploratory analysis of γδ T cell development and γδ T cell dynamics in clinical cohorts.
Lower access to risk stratification tests and drugs, and worse survival of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia patients treated in public as compared to private hospitals in Brazil: A retrospective analysis of the Brazilian registry of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Pfister Verena , Marques Fernanda de Morais , Parra Flavia , Yamamoto Mihoko , Gonçalves Matheus Vescovi , Perobelli Leila , Buccheri Valeria , Bandeira Raphael , Fortier Sergio , Azevedo Alita , Santucci Rodrigo , Bellesso Marcelo , Fogliatto Laura , Ribeiro Glaciano , Lopes Germison Silva , Ikoma Maura , Figueiredo Vera P. , Metze Irene Gyongyver H Lorand , Chiattone Carlos Sérgio , Arrais‐Rodrigues Celso
Published: May 2022

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) has a highly variable clinical course. In addition to biological factors, socioeconomic factors and health system characteristics may influence CLL outcome. Data from the Brazilian Registry of CLL were analyzed to compare clinical and treatment‐related characteristics in patients with CLL, from public or private institutions. A total of 3326 patients from 43 centres met the eligibility criteria, of whom 81% were followed up at public hospitals and 19% at private hospitals. The majority were male (57%), with a median age of 65 years. Comparing public and private hospitals, patients in public hospitals were older, had more advanced disease at diagnosis, and more frequently had elevated creatinine levels. All investigated prognostic markers were evaluated more often in private hospitals. First‐line treatment was predominantly based on chlorambucil in 41% of the cases and fludarabine in 38%. Anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody was used in only 36% of cases. In public hospitals, significantly fewer patients received fludarabine‐based regimens and anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibodies. Patients from public hospitals had significantly worse overall survival (71% vs. 90% for private hospitals, p < 0.0001) and treatment‐free survival (32% vs. 40%, for private hospitals, p < 0.0001) at seven years. Our data indicate striking differences between patients followed in public and private hospitals in Brazil. A worse clinical condition and lack of accessibility to basic laboratory tests and adequate therapies may explain the worse outcomes of patients treated in public institutions.
Quantitative Magnetization EXchange MRI Measurement of Liver Fibrosis Model in Rodents
Authors: Wilczynski Ella , Sasson Efrat , Eliav Uzi , Navon Gil , Nevo Uri
Published: May 2022

Background

Quantitative MRI can elucidate the complex microstructural changes in liver disease. The Magnetization EXchange (MEX) method estimates macromolecular fraction, such as collagen, and can potentially aid in this task.

Hypothesis

MEX sequence, and its derived quantitative macromolecular fraction, should correlate with collagen deposition in rodents liver fibrosis model.

Study Type

Prospective.

Animal Model

Sixteen adults Sprague–Dawley rats and 13 adults C57BL/6 strain mice given carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) twice weekly for 6 or 8 weeks.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 7 T scanner. MEX sequence (selective suppression and magnetization exchange), spin‐echo and gradient‐echo scans.

Assessment

Macromolecular fraction (F) and T1 were extracted for each voxel and for livers' regions of interest, additional to calculating the percentage of F > 0.1 pixels in F maps (high‐F). Histology included staining with hematoxylin and eosin, picrosirius red and Masson trichrome, and inflammation scoring. Quantitative collagen percentage calculated using automatic spectral‐segmentation of the staining.

Statistical Tests

Comparing CCl4‐treated groups and controls using Welch's t‐test and paired t‐test between different time points. Pearson's correlation used between ROI MEX parameters or high‐F fraction, and quantitative histology. F or T1, and inflammation scores were tested with one‐sided t‐test. P < 0.05 was deemed significant.

Results

Rats: F values were significantly different after 6 weeks of treatment (0.10 ± 0.02) compared to controls (0.080 ± 0.003). After 8 weeks, F significantly increased (0.11 ± 0.02) in treated animals, while controls are not significant (0.0814 ± 0.0008, P = 0.079). F correlated with quantitative histology (R = 0.87), and T1 was significantly different between inflammation scores (1: 1332 ± 224 msec, 2: 2007 ± 464 msec).

Mice: F was significantly higher (0.062 ± 0.006) in treatment group compared to controls (0.042 ± 0.006). F and high‐F fraction correlated with quantitative histology (R = 0.88; R = 0.84). T1 was significantly different between inflammation scores (1:1366 ± 99 msec; 2:1648 ± 45 msec).

Data Conclusion

MEX extracted parameters are sensitive to collagen deposition and inflammation and are correlated with histology results of mouse and rat liver fibrosis model.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Characterization of inhomogeneity at edges of graphene oxide films using tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Yoshikawa Masanobu , Murakami Masataka , Fujita Yasuhiko
Published: May 2022

We developed a reflection‐type tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy system with a high spatial resolution to be able to apply for many kinds of opaque samples and obtained Raman images and Raman spectra at the edges of graphene oxide (GO) films using this system. We found that the relative intensity of the D band to the G band (ID/IG) increased 0.6 to 1.5 at the edges of the GO plane and the C‐H stretching mode at approximately 2920 cm−1 was strongly observed at the edges. These results suggest that the graphite network structures are broken down at the edges of the GO plane, resulting in the high ID/IG ratio, and the dangling bonds are mainly terminated by C‐H, C‐O, O‐H, and/or COO‐ groups.
Bioactive zein/chitosan systems loaded with essential oils for food‐packaging applications
Authors: Pavlátková Lucie , Sedlaříková Jana , Pleva Pavel , Peer Petra , Uysal‐Unalan Ilke , Janalíková Magda
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

There has recently been increased interest in biodegradable and sustainable packaging within the food industry. Biopolymer materials based on renewable biomass can be used as alternatives to conventional plastic packaging. A corn protein, zein, possesses excellent film‐forming properties because of its hydrophobic nature. It can be used for making edible films and for producing nanofibrous layers. Combination with polysaccharides like chitosan offers promising prospects for the production of delivery systems for the controlled release of active substances. The current trend is to minimize the content of chemical additives; thus essential oils are suitable alternatives to synthetic antimicrobials.

RESULTS

This study aimed to develop various zein/chitosan‐based film‐forming solutions, films, and coatings with antimicrobial substances to prepare active food packaging. Thymol and three essential oils (thyme, cinnamon, oregano) were applied as bioactive ingredients against bacteria, yeasts, and fungi. The incorporation of these natural active compounds led to a decrease in particle size in most film‐forming solutions and a reduction of zeta potential compared to controls. Release of the bioactive compound into an aqueous environment was proved by antimicrobial test. A zein/chitosan‐based coating with thymol was applied on fresh strawberries. Microbiological analysis over 10 days confirmed the efficient control of bacterial and fungal growth.

CONCLUSION

Zein/chitosan (7:1) systems are suitable as bioactive compound carriers to make barriers and to prevent moisture loss, ensuring microbial food quality and prolonging the shelf life of fruits. These systems can serve as sustainable active food packaging. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Straw residue incorporation and potassium fertilization enhances soil aggregate stability by altering soil content of iron oxide and organic carbon in a rice–rape cropping system
Authors: Xue Bin , Huang Li , Li Xiaokun , Lu Jianwei , Gao Ruili , Kamran Muhammad
Published: May 2022

Both iron (Fe) oxide and soil organic carbon (SOC) content, among other factors, drive the development and subsequent stability of soil aggregates. However, the mechanism of these drivers in paddy‐upland rotation systems with straw residue incorporation is not well understood. In this multiyear (2011–2017) trial, we sought to study the factors which drive the stability of soil aggregates in such a rice‐rape (RR) agronomic system. In order to examine the effect of straw residue incorporation and potassium fertilization on soil aggregation dynamics, we divided our trial into four treatments: inorganic phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) fertilizer; inorganic NPK fertilizer; inorganic NP fertilizer plus straw residue; and inorganic NPK fertilizer plus straw residue. Treatments which incorporated straw residue significantly increased both the geometric mean diameter (GMD) and the mean weight diameter (MWD) of soil aggregates. Soil aggregate stability was greater after rape harvest than after rice harvest, while SOC shows the opposite trend. Straw residue incorporation increased the SOC and, specifically, concentrations of aliphatic‐C and aromatic‐C, particularly in aggregates greater than 0.25 mm. Straw residue addition significantly increased both the amorphous (Feo) and complex iron oxide (Fep) contents of soil. In both bulk soil and in aggregates greater than 5 mm, SOC and Fep were positively correlated with MWD, while in aggregates less than 5 mm, Feo was positively correlated with MWD. Overall, we suggest that the increased concentrations of SOC, alkane‐C, Feo, and Fep in soils after incorporation of straw residue were responsible for increasing soil aggregate stability.
Harnack inequality for nonlocal problems with non-standard growth
Authors: Chaker Jamil , Kim Minhyun , Weidner Marvin
Published: May 2022

We prove a full Harnack inequality for local minimizers, as well as weak solutions to nonlocal problems with non-standard growth. The main auxiliary results are local boundedness and a weak Harnack inequality for functions in a corresponding De Giorgi class. This paper builds upon a recent work on regularity estimates for such nonlocal problems by the same authors.
Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy with Dor Fundoplication: An Operation that has Withstood the Test of Time
Authors: Orlow Rafaella , Herbella Fernando A. , Patti Marco G.
Published: May 2022

Background

Achalasia is a primary esophageal motility disorder characterized by aperistalsis and defective relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter in response to swallowing. Patients’ symptoms include dysphagia, regurgitation, weight loss, chest pain and aspiration. The disease is idiopathic, and the goal of treatment is to eliminate the resistance determined by the abnormal lower esophageal sphincter, therefore allowing passage of the ingested food from the esophagus into the stomach. Three effective treatment modalities are available today—pneumatic dilatation, peroral endoscopic myotomy, and laparoscopic Heller myotomy with a partial fundoplication.

Methods

We described the technique to perform a laparoscopic Heller myotomy and a Dor fundoplication.

Results

Five steps to perform a laparoscopic Heller myotomy and a Dor fundoplication were described.

Conclusions

The surgical approach is favored in many centers as it is very effective in relieving symptoms, while avoiding pathologic gastroesophageal reflux in most patients.
Laparoscopic resection rectopexy significantly affects preexisting urinary symptoms in female patients
Authors: Kraemer Matthias , Kraemer Silvia , Ceran Canan
Published: May 2022

Purpose

It has previously been noted that following rectopexy, some patients report changes in urinary function. So far, not much is known about the extent of such changes. This study assesses the effects of laparoscopic rectopexy on urinary symptoms.

Methods

Prospective observational study with 100 consecutive female patients indicated for laparoscopic resection rectopexy. Stated urinary symptoms, pre- and postoperative “International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire” (ICIQ), supplemented by a “quality of life “ (QoL) visual analogue scale, and residual urine measurements (RUM) were compared and correlated.

Results

Postoperative QoL was significantly improved, irrespective of preexisting urinary symptoms. Twenty-four (24%) patients noticed improved urinary function. This corresponded with 42% of 45 patients who had positive preoperative ICIQ scores indicating preexisting urinary symptoms. Conversely, 14 (14%) patients noticed a postoperative increase of urinary complaints. The stated symptom change was only in part reflected by changes of the ICIQ scoring. Comparing ICIQ, 19 (19%) patients scored “better” postoperatively against 8% scoring worse; 5 of the 8 patients experienced “de novo” symptoms. The improved postoperative ICIQ scoring was highly significant. RUM did not sufficiently correlate to symptoms/ICIQ for any meaningful conclusion.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic resection rectopexy had predominantly beneficial and to a lesser extent detrimental effects on urinary symptoms. Effects were highly significant; they were mainly noted in patients with preexisting urinary complaints. So far, it is not possible to predict such effects on an individual basis. It appears likely that similar effects may be found for most of the alternative operative procedures for the treatment of rectal prolapse. Without more factual knowledge and awareness about the extent of potential “collateral” effects of pelvic floor repair procedures, expert guidance of patients appears limited.
AR cooperates with SMAD4 to maintain skeletal muscle homeostasis
Authors: Forouhan Mitra , Lim Wooi Fang , Zanetti-Domingues Laura C. , Tynan Christopher J. , Roberts Thomas C. , Malik Bilal , Manzano Raquel , Speciale Alfina A. , Ellerington Ruth , Garcia-Guerra Antonio , Fratta Pietro , Sorarú Gianni , Greensmith Linda , Pennuto Maria , Wood Matthew J. A. , Rinaldi Carlo
Published: May 2022

Androgens and androgen-related molecules exert a plethora of functions across different tissues, mainly through binding to the transcription factor androgen receptor (AR). Despite widespread therapeutic use and misuse of androgens as potent anabolic agents, the molecular mechanisms of this effect on skeletal muscle are currently unknown. Muscle mass in adulthood is mainly regulated by the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) axis of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β pathway via recruitment of mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 4 (SMAD4) protein. Here we show that, upon activation, AR forms a transcriptional complex with SMAD4 to orchestrate a muscle hypertrophy programme by modulating SMAD4 chromatin binding dynamics and enhancing its transactivation activity. We challenged this mechanism of action using spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) as a model of study. This adult-onset neuromuscular disease is caused by a polyglutamine expansion (polyQ) in AR and is characterized by progressive muscle weakness and atrophy secondary to a combination of lower motor neuron degeneration and primary muscle atrophy. Here we found that the presence of an elongated polyQ tract impairs AR cooperativity with SMAD4, leading to an inability to mount an effective anti-atrophy gene expression programme in skeletal muscle in response to denervation. Furthermore, adeno-associated virus, serotype 9 (AAV9)-mediated muscle-restricted delivery of BMP7 is able to rescue the muscle atrophy in SBMA mice, supporting the development of treatments able to fine-tune AR-SMAD4 transcriptional cooperativity as a promising target for SBMA and other conditions associated with muscle loss.
Effect of fuzziness in fuzzy rule-based classifiers defined by strong fuzzy partitions and winner-takes-all inference
Authors: Casalino Gabriella , Castellano Giovanna , Castiello Ciro , Mencar Corrado
Published: May 2022

We study the impact of fuzziness on the behavior of Fuzzy Rule-Based Classifiers (FRBCs) defined by trapezoidal fuzzy sets forming Strong Fuzzy Partitions. In particular, if an FRBC selects the class related to the rule with the highest activation (so-called Winner-Takes-All approach), then fuzziness, as quantified by the slope of the membership functions, has no impact in classifying data in regions of the input space where rules dominate. On the other hand, fuzziness affects the behaviour of the FRBC in regions where the confidence in classification is low. As a consequence, in the context of Explainable Artificial Intelligence, fuzziness is profitable in FRBCs only if classification is accompanied by an explanation of the confidence of the provided outputs.
Diagnostic classification of Parkinson’s disease based on non-motor manifestations and machine learning strategies
Authors: Martinez-Eguiluz Maitane , Arbelaitz Olatz , Gurrutxaga Ibai , Muguerza Javier , Perona Iñigo , Murueta-Goyena Ane , Acera Marian , Del Pino Rocío , Tijero Beatriz , Gomez-Esteban Juan Carlos , Gabilondo Iñigo
Published: May 2022

Non-motor manifestations of Parkinson’s disease (PD) appear early and have a significant impact on the quality of life of patients, but few studies have evaluated their predictive potential with machine learning algorithms. We evaluated 9 algorithms for discriminating PD patients from controls using a wide collection of non-motor clinical PD features from two databases: Biocruces (96 subjects) and PPMI (687 subjects). In addition, we evaluated whether the combination of both databases could improve the individual results. For each database 2 versions with different granularity were created and a feature selection process was performed. We observed that most of the algorithms were able to detect PD patients with high accuracy (>80%). Support Vector Machine and Multi-Layer Perceptron obtained the best performance, with an accuracy of 86.3% and 84.7%, respectively. Likewise, feature selection led to a significant reduction in the number of variables and to better performance. Besides, the enrichment of Biocruces database with data from PPMI moderately benefited the performance of the classification algorithms, especially the recall and to a lesser extent the accuracy, while the precision worsened slightly. The use of interpretable rules obtained by the RIPPER algorithm showed that simply using two variables (autonomic manifestations and olfactory dysfunction), it was possible to achieve an accuracy of 84.4%. Our study demonstrates that the analysis of non-motor parameters of PD through machine learning techniques can detect PD patients with high accuracy and recall, and allows us to select the most discriminative non-motor variables to create potential tools for PD screening.
Learning to anticipate mate presence shapes individual sex roles in the hermaphroditic pond snail, Lymnaea stagnalis
Authors: Álvarez Beatriz , Koene Joris M. , Hollis Karen L. , Loy Ignacio
Published: May 2022

Despite being simultaneously male and female, hermaphrodites may still need to assume the male or female sexual role in a mating encounter, with the option to swap roles afterwards. For the great pond snail, Lymnaea stagnalis, deciding which sexual role to perform has important consequences, since sperm transfer and male reproductive success can be decreased. We hypothesised that detecting cues that indicate a possible mating encounter could help them to adapt their mating behaviour. Therefore, we experimentally assessed whether signalling the presence of a conspecific with an odour can affect the sexual role of Lymnaea stagnalis. The results showed that learning resulted in either an increased ability to mate as a male or in faster mating compared to the control group. These findings reveal that learning shapes the mating dynamics of Lymnaea stagnalis, thus showing that cognitive processes not only affect mating in separate-sexed species but also in hermaphrodites.
Numerical Simulations of Coastal Overwash Using A Phase-Averaged Wave—Current—Sediment Transport Model
Authors: Li Song-zhe , Ji Chao , Zhang Qing-he , Chen Tong-qing
Published: May 2022

Coastal overwash is a natural phenomenon that commonly occurs during storm events and can cause considerable changes in nearshore morphology within a short time. In this study, a complete set of empirical overwash transport algorithms is developed and introduced into a phase-averaged wave-current-sediment transport coupling model that integrates the Finite-Volume Community Ocean Model (FVCOM) and the Simulating Waves Nearshore (SWAN) model. The resulting morphological evolution model can simulate coastal overwash. Validation against the data obtained from multiple sets of laboratory overwash experiments demonstrates that the model performs relatively well in simulating morphological changes caused by runup overwash and inundation overwash under different hydrodynamic and beach profile conditions. The sensitivity of each empirical coefficient in the overwash transport algorithms is comprehensively analyzed. The effects of each coefficient on the output of the model are discussed, and a recommended value range is provided for each coefficient.
Orgasm Rating Scale and Bodily Sensations of Orgasm Scale: Validation for Use with Pre, Peri, and Post-Menopausal Women
Authors: Webb Amy Elizabeth , Reissing Elke Doris , Huta Veronika
Published: May 2022

Background

Orgasm, particularly in older women, remains a poorly understood aspect of female sexual response partly because of a lack of validated self-report measures.

Aim

To evaluate the Orgasm Rating Scale (ORS) and Bodily Sensations of Orgasm Scale (BSOS) for use with pre, peri, and post-menopausal women and between solitary and partnered orgasm contexts.

Methods

Participants (solitary context, 252 pre, 139 peri, 190 post; partnered context, 229 pre, 136 peri, and 194 post-menopausal women, aged 18-82 years) were asked to complete an online questionnaire based on most recent solitary and partnered orgasm. Principal components analysis with Varimax rotation summarized the data into interpretable baseline models for all groups. Multi-Group Confirmatory Factor Analysis tested for multi-group measurement invariance. Adjustments to the models were made, and final model structures were presented.

Main Outcome Measures

ORS and BSOS measuring solitary and/or masturbation and partnered orgasm.

Results

For the ORS, 10 factor solutions were preferred, explaining 81% (pre), 80% (peri), and 81% (post) of the variance for the solitary and 83% (pre), 86% (peri), and 84% (post) of the variance for the partnered context. Factors included pleasurable satisfaction, ecstasy, emotional intimacy, relaxation, building sensations, flooding sensations, flushing sensations, shooting sensations, throbbing sensations, and general spasms. For the BSOS, 3 factor solutions were preferred, explaining 55% (pre), 60% (peri), and 56% (post) of the variance for the solitary and 56% (pre), 61% (peri), and 60% (post) of the variance for the partnered context. Factors included extragenital sensations, genital sensations and spasms, and nociceptive sensations and sweating responses. Divergent validity was observed (solitary r = -.04; partnered r = -.11) and configural, metric and scalar invariance for the solitary and partnered versions of the ORS and BSOS were found, suggesting the measures were interpreted similarly by all women.

Clinical Implications

With valid measurement tools, women’s varying orgasm experiences can be investigated more systematically and compared to address gaps and conflicts in the existing literature. Ultimately, these additions may assist with improved interventions for women who are unsatisfied with their orgasm experiences.

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths include gaining the ability to compare age and menopausal status groups using empirically validated measures of orgasm experience. Limitations include cross-sectional design and lack of test-retest reliability measurement.

Conclusion

The ORS and BSOS are supported for use with women across adulthood in solitary and partnered orgasm contexts and can be used concurrently to provide a comprehensive assessment.
Wapato as an Important Staple Carbohydrate in the Northwest Coast Diet: A Response to Martin
Authors: Hoffmann Tanja , Lyons Natasha , Blake Michael , Martindale Andrew , Miller Debbie , Larbey Cynthia
Published: May 2022

In response to Steve L. Martin's critique of our recent paper we provide further evidence in support of our central contention: that geophytes were a nutritionally important part of the precontact diet, and that they functioned as dietary, cultural, and economic staple foods for many peoples of the Pacific Northwest.
Diabetes mellitus and other underlying conditions in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 associated rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zobairy H , Salem M M , Ghajarzadeh M , Mirmosayyeb O , Mirsalehi M
Published: May 2022

Objective

This study aimed to compute the pooled prevalence of diabetes mellitus and other underlying conditions in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 associated rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis.

Method

A systematic literature review was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase and Google Scholar. The cross-sectional studies that reported the frequency of diabetes mellitus in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 associated rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis were included.

Results

Eighteen eligible studies with a total number of 3718 patients were included in the current study. The pooled prevalence of diabetes in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 associated rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis was 89 per cent and with new-onset diabetes was 32 per cent. The pooled prevalence of steroid use was high (79 per cent) too. The all-cause mortality rate was 24 per cent.

Conclusion

Diabetes mellitus was the most frequent underlying condition in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 associated rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis. The second most frequent underlying condition was steroid use during coronavirus disease 2019 infection. The appropriate control of hyperglycaemia and rational prescription of steroids during the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 associated rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis is recommended.
Why does God command?
Authors: Wygoda Cohen Shlomit
Published: May 2022

Assuming the existence of God and divine commands, it makes sense to ask to what end God issues commands. This question has been raised in recent philosophical literature in the context of whether there can be a divine command to believe in, or to worship, God. In this article, I argue that the answers proposed to this question fail to appreciate the wide range of possible purposes of divine commanding. In particular, I argue that commands that cannot be conformed or complied with may still have purpose.
Climate and Currents Shaped Japan’s Hunter-Gatherer Cultures
Authors: Dzombak Rebecca
Published: May 2022

New climate records from a peat bog show how two neighboring cultures responded differently to shifts in climate and ocean currents.
Few generalized entropic relations related to Rydberg atoms
Authors: Kumar Kirtee , Prasad Vinod
Published: May 2022

We calculate the analytical and numerical values of the position space Shannon entropy, momentum space Shannon entropy, and total Shannon entropy, $$S_\rho$$

S
ρ

, $$S_\gamma$$

S
γ

, and $$S_T$$

S
T

, respectively, of free and trapped Rydberg hydrogen-like atoms. The influence of atomic number Z, the principal quantum number n, and energy E on the Shannon entropy of the Rydberg atoms are illustrated. The scaling properties of Shannon entropy with energy of states E and the principal quantum number n have been reported for the first time to the best of our knowledge. Our work explains how Shannon entropy indicates localization-delocalization of the wavefunction. The total Shannon entropy as a measure of the number of nodes in the trapped Rydberg atom’s wavefunction is also discussed. We show why an uncertainty relation based on Shannon entropy is superior to Heisenberg uncertainty for Rydberg atoms.