bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of free‐ranging livestock on occurrence and interspecific interactions of a mammalian community
Authors: Salvatori Marco , Oberosler Valentina , Augugliaro Claudio , Krofel Miha , Rovero Francesco
Published: April 2022

Mammalian communities inhabiting temperate grasslands are of conservation concern globally, especially in Central Asia, where livestock numbers have dramatically increased in recent decades, leading to overgrazing and land‐use change. Yet, how this pervasive presence of livestock herds affects the community of wild mammals remains largely unstudied. We used systematic camera trapping at 216 sites across remote, mountainous areas of the Mongolian Altai Mountains to assess the spatial and temporal patterns of occurrence and the interspecific relationships within a mammalian community that includes different categories of livestock. By adopting a recently proposed multispecies occupancy model that incorporates interspecific correlation in occupancy, we found several statistically strong correlations in occupancy among species pairs, with the majority involving livestock. The sign of such associations was markedly species‐dependent, with larger wild species of conservation concern, namely, snow leopard and Siberian ibex, avoiding livestock presence. As predicted, we found evidence of a positive correlation in occupancy between predators and their respective main prey. Contrary to our expectations, a number of intraguild species pairs also showed positive co‐occurrence, with no evidence of spatiotemporal niche partitioning. Overall, our study suggests that livestock encroaching into protected areas influences the whole local community of wild mammals. Though pastoralism has coexisted with wildlife for millennia in central Asian grasslands, our findings suggest that policies and practices to decrease the pressure of livestock husbandry on wildlife are needed, with special attention on large species, such as the snow leopard and its wild prey, which seem to be particularly sensitive to this pervasive livestock presence.
Bridging the gap: Short structural variants in the genetics of anorexia nervosa
Authors: Berthold Natasha , Pytte Julia , Bulik Cynthia M. , Tschochner Monika , Medland Sarah E. , Akkari Patrick Anthony
Published: April 2022

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a devastating disorder with evidence of underexplored heritability. Twin and family studies estimate heritability (h2) to be 57%–64%, and genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) reveal significant genetic correlations with psychiatric and anthropometric traits and a total of nine genome‐wide significant loci. Whether significantly associated single nucleotide polymorphisms identified by GWAS are causal or tag true causal variants, remains to be elucidated. We propose a novel method for bridging this knowledge gap by fine‐mapping short structural variants (SSVs) in and around GWAS‐identified loci. SSV fine‐mapping of loci associated with complex disorders such as schizophrenia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease has uncovered genetic risk markers, phenotypic variability between patients, new pathological mechanisms, and potential therapeutic targets. We analyze previous investigations' methods and propose utilizing an evaluation algorithm to prioritize 10 SSVs for each of the top two AN GWAS‐identified loci followed by Sanger sequencing and fragment analysis via capillary electrophoresis to characterize these SSVs for case/control association studies. Success of previous SSV analyses in complex disorders and effective utilization of similar methodologies supports our proposed method. Furthermore, the structural and spatial properties of the 10 SSVs identified for each of the top two AN GWAS‐associated loci, cell adhesion molecule 1 (CADM1) and NCK interacting protein with SH3 domain (NCKIPSD), are similar to previous studies. We propose SSV fine‐mapping of AN‐associated loci will identify causal genetic architecture. Deepening understandings of AN may lead to novel therapeutic targets and subsequently increase quality‐of‐life for individuals living with the illness.

Public Significance Statement

Anorexia nervosa is a severe and complex illness, arising from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Recent studies estimate the contribution of genetic variability; however, the specific DNA sequences and how they contribute remain unknown. We present a novel approach, arguing that the genetic variant class, short structural variants, could answer this knowledge gap and allow development of biologically targeted therapeutics, improving quality‐of‐life and patient outcomes for affected individuals.
Quantifying effort needed to estimate species diversity from citizen science data
Authors: Callaghan Corey T. , Bowler Diana E. , Blowes Shane A. , Chase Jonathan M. , Lyons Mitchell B. , Pereira Henrique M.
Published: April 2022

Broad‐scale biodiversity monitoring relies, at least in part, on the efforts of citizen, or community, scientists. To ensure robust inferences from citizen science data, it is important to understand the spatial pattern of sampling effort by citizen scientists and how it deviates from an optimal pattern. Here, we develop a generalized workflow to estimate the optimal distribution of sampling effort for inference of species diversity (e.g., species richness, Shannon diversity, and Simpson's diversity) patterns using the relationship between species diversity and land cover. We used data from the eBird citizen science project that was collected across heterogeneous landscapes in Florida (USA) to illustrate this workflow across different grain sizes. We found that a relatively small number of samples are needed to meet 95% sampling completeness when diversity estimation is focused on dominant species: 43, 64, 96, 123, 172, and 176 for 5 × 5, 10 × 10, 15 × 15, 20 × 20, 25 × 25, and 30 × 30‐km2 grain sizes, respectively. In contrast, three to five times more samples are necessary to infer species diversity when estimation is focused on rare species. However, in both cases, the optimal distribution of effort was spatially heterogeneous, with more effort needed in regions of higher diversity. Our results highlight the potential of citizen science data to make informed comparisons of species diversity in space and time, as well as how sampling effort inherently depends on monitoring goals, such as whether dominant or rare species are targeted. Our general workflow allows for the quantification of sampling effort needed to estimate species diversity with citizen science data and can guide future adaptive sampling by citizen science participants.
A reduced order model for nonlinear time history seismic analyzes of elasto‐plastic 3D frame structures
Authors: Magisano Domenico , Corrado Antonella , Madeo Antonio , Garcea Giovanni
Published: April 2022

A reduced order model for the nonlinear dynamic seismic analysis of elasto‐plastic 3D frame structures is presented. It is based on an approximated solution space for the displacement field that is assumed as the sum of two subspaces. The first subspace is generated by the relevant linear elastic modes of the generalized stiffness/mass linear eigenvalue problem in terms of participation factor. The second one is defined by collapse mechanisms associated to appropriate static load distributions. The time history analyzes are carried out within the reduced solution space, while the internal forces are evaluated on the full model to guarantee an accurate description of the constitutive laws. The proposed reduction method was tested for different structural geometries varying frequency content, direction and amplitude of the ground motion. Numerical results show accuracy and robustness also employing a few tens of modes, including elastic modes and plastic collapse mechanisms. In particular, the need for plastic modes in capturing the structural dynamics in case of seismic actions leading to significant plastic excursions is emphasized. This highlights the limits of simplified approaches based on the hypothesis of shape conservation in nonlinear problems, regardless of the building regularity.
Trust Also Means Centering Black Women's Reproductive Health Narratives
Authors: Thomas Shameka Poetry
Published: April 2022

This commentary responds to Yolonda Wilson's article “Is Trust Enough? Anti‐Black Racism and the Perception of Black Vaccine ‘Hesitancy’” by connecting mistrust to the phenomenon in the United States of blaming Black women for their own adverse health outcomes, particularly in the context of maternal and reproductive health. When medical practitioners and researchers fail to recognize and understand the racist social context of health problems, Black women and other minoritized groups are socialized to mistrust their bodies; as a result, these groups can come to mistrust medical institutions, and medical institutions to distrust patients from these groups. Highlighting the disproportionately and unjustly high maternal mortality rates among Black women, this commentary warns that neglecting to center the narratives of Black women tells an incomplete story of reproductive health disparities in the United States. Drawing on firsthand experience conducting qualitative reproductive‐health research with Black women, the author urges professionals in reproductive medicine and bioethics to use the tools of narrative medicine to listen to and center Black women's accounts of their lived experiences in order to deconstruct blame and work toward eliminating reproductive health disparities.
Targeted gene next‐generation sequencing reveals genomic profile in a cohort of 46 Chinese patients with breast cancer
Authors: Yao Jie , Chen Qian , Zhu Jun‐qi , Cai Rui‐gang
Published: April 2022

Background

The present study aimed to explore the genomic profile in a cohort of Chinese patients with breast cancer (BC), as well as provide potential strategies for clinic treatment in specific subset of BC patients.

Methods

Paired samples from 46 BC patients were subjected to DNA extraction and 537 gene targeted next‐generation sequencing.

Results

In total, 742 somatic mutations were detected in these patients, which involved 303 genes. TP53 and PIK3CA were the most frequently mutated genes, with a mutation rate of 45.65% and 26.09%. C>T, T>C and C>A comprised the main single nucleotide base variation for this Chinese cohort. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) group had more TP53‐mutated patients than the Non‐TNBC group (p = 0.0229). In addition, the cohort was also divided into ‘Young’ and ‘Old’ groups based on the age of onset. Compared with the ‘Young’ group, the ‘Old’ group had more frameshift mutations (p = 0.0190), less missense mutations (p = 0.0269) and more HOXA11‐mutated patients (p = 0.0197). Additionally, the HOXA11mt (HOXA11 gene mutated) group had more frameshift mutations than the HOXA11wt (HOXA11 gene without mutation) group (p < 0.0001). In KEGG (i.e. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) analysis, the HOXA11wt group had more gene mutations involved in the T cell receptor signaling pathway (p = 0.0197), Jak–STAT signaling pathway (p = 0.0380) and the HIF‐1 signaling pathway (p = 0.0489) than the HOXA11mt group. In the present study, the heterogeneity of somatic mutations was revealed between different tumor subgroups, including TNBC/Non‐TNBC, age of onset (Young/Old) and HOXA11 mutation (HOXA11mt/HOXA11wt).

Conclusions

The present study revealed the heterogeneity of gene mutation and clinical variables among BC subtypes and might provide guidance for developing a potential target for clinical treatment.
Independent effects of Src kinase and podoplanin on anchorage independent cell growth and migration
Authors: Retzbach Edward P. , Sheehan Stephanie A. , Krishnan Harini , Zheng Haiyan , Zhao Caifeng , Goldberg Gary S.
Published: April 2022

The Src tyrosine kinase is a strong tumor promotor. Over a century of research has elucidated fundamental mechanisms that drive its oncogenic potential. Src phosphorylates effector proteins to promote hallmarks of tumor progression. For example, Src associates with the Cas focal adhesion adaptor protein to promote anchorage independent cell growth. In addition, Src phosphorylates Cas to induce Pdpn expression to promote cell migration. Pdpn is a transmembrane receptor that can independently increase cell migration in the absence of oncogenic Src kinase activity. However, to our knowledge, effects of Src kinase activity on anchorage independent cell growth and migration have not been examined in the absence of Pdpn expression. Here, we analyzed the effects of an inducible Src kinase construct in knockout cells with and without exogenous Pdpn expression on cell morphology migration and anchorage independent growth. We report that Src promoted anchorage independent cell growth in the absence of Pdpn expression. In contrast, Src was not able to promote cell migration in the absence of Pdpn expression. In addition, continued Src kinase activity was required for cells to assume a transformed morphology since cells reverted to a nontransformed morphology upon cessation of Src kinase activity. We also used phosphoproteomic analysis to identify 28 proteins that are phosphorylated in Src transformed cells in a Pdpn dependent manner. Taken together, these data indicate that Src utilizes Pdpn to promote transformed cell growth and motility in complementary, but parallel, as opposed to serial, pathways.
Study of fiber delamination on silane modified ramie fiber/OMMTnano‐clay epoxy composite under low‐velocity impact, shear load, and high‐speeddrilling
Authors: Sivaperumal R. , Jancirani J. , Vasanthan B. , Jeevamalar J.
Published: April 2022

In this present study, the effect of silane treated ramie fiber addition along with organically‐modified montmorillonite (OMMT) nano clay in epoxy resin composite was investigated in drop load impact, shear loading, and high‐speed drilling. The main aim of this research study was to develop a high‐laminar shear strength epoxy structural composite for various engineering applications. To improve the laminar adhesion the fiber was treated using silane via acid hydrolysis technique. The OMMT nanoclay also added with fiber in order to improve the load bearing effect and adhesion phenomenon. The composites were prepared using hand layup method with postcuring. The adhesion behavior of composites was tested based on American society for testing and materials standards and compared. According to the results, the treated ramie fiber possesses high resistance to impact loading. The ballistic resistance of composite is increased three fold when compare with as‐received fiber‐epoxy composites. The interlaminar shear strength of composite designation C1.5 gives highest shear strength of 35 MPa. The drilling study revealed highest dimensional stability for treated fiber. No fiber chip off and pull out at the drilled hole surface. The fractography analysis confirms no lamina delamination occurs even at high‐speed drilling. These delamination resistance epoxy‐based composites are suitable in automobile, structural and defense gadget manufacturing applications.
Two‐particle self‐consistent analysis for the electron‐hole asymmetry of superconductivity in cuprate superconductors
Authors: Ogura Daisuke , Kuroki Kazuhiko
Published: April 2022

In the hole‐doped type cuprate superconductors, it is well‐known that the superconducting transition temperature Tc exhibits a dome‐like structure against doping. On the other hand, recent experiments unveil that Tc in the electron‐doped compounds shows a monotonic increase with decreasing the doping, at least down to a very small doping rate. Our recent study for the three‐band d–p model has unveiled that this asymmetric behavior can be explained as a combined effect of the intrinsic electron‐hole asymmetry in systems comprising Cu3 d and O2 p orbitals and the band‐filling‐dependent vertex correction . In the present study, we study another compound Tl2 Ba2 CuO6 to show that this explanation can be applied to other cuprate superconductors with the small orbital mixture. By varying the d–p offset, we also study how the strength of the d–p hybridization controls the spin fluctuation and hence the pairing interaction.
Yb valence state in Yb5Rh4Ge10
Authors: Sato Hitoshi , Utsumi Yuki , Katoh Kenichi , Mimura Kojiro , Ueda Shigenori , Yamaoka Hitoshi , Rousuli Awabaikeli , Arita Masashi , Umeo Kazunori , Shimada Kenya , Namatame Hirofumi , Taniguchi Masaki
Published: April 2022

Temperature‐ and pressure‐dependent Yb valence state in Yb5Rh4Ge10 has been investigated by means of Yb 3d hard X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy (HAXPES) and Yb L3 absorption spectroscopy (XAS). The mean Yb valence derived from the Yb 3d HAXPES is estimated to be at 300 K and decreases to at 20 K. On the other hand, the Yb valence deduced from the Yb L3 XAS at 300 K is almost constant with in the pressure range between 9.2 and 34.7 GPa.
Preparation of Zn2SiO4:Mn2+ films by electrical discharge pulse method
Authors: Hattori Makoto , Suzuki Yuya , Goto Akihiro , Dohi Minoru
Published: April 2022

The use of electrical discharge pulses is a new method to prepare thin films. The conventional phosphor thin film preparation technology uses rf sputtering or vacuum vapor deposition. However, thin films prepared by conventional methods are formed in amorphousness on the substrates. In contrast, this new method uses the electrical discharge energy between an electrode and a conductive substrate. When an electrical pulse is discharged between the electrode and the substrate, the electrode material, which is zinc and phosphor, moves to the substrate. Consequently, this new method can be used to produce light‐emitting devices. In this study, we used the phosphor Zn2SiO4:Mn2+. We were able to prepare luminescent Zn2SiO4:Mn2+ films using a discharge currant of 10 A, at a voltage of 80 V and weight ratio of zinc to Zn2SiO4:Mn2+ of 6:4. We evaluated the resultant films with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD).
Improvement of photoelectric conversion efficiencies of dye‐sensitized solar cells consisting of hemispherical TiO2 films
Authors: Izumi Shogo , Mizuno Ayame , Ohtani Naoki
Published: April 2022

To improve the photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), we fabricated hemispherical TiO2 films using a poly(dimethylsiloxane) mold and improved the light harvesting efficiency in DSSCs by a large light‐scattering effect caused by the hemispherical structure. In addition, the amount of the adsorption density of the dye in TiO2 increased due to the larger surface area of the hemispherical structure. Consequently, the short‐circuit current of DSSCs containing hemispherical TiO2 film increased even though the open‐circuit voltage was not changed. As a result, the overall PCE value was improved to about 1.2 times larger than a DSSC containing a flat TiO2 film.

In addition, polyethylene glycol‐doping in TiO2 effectively improved the DSSC performance comprised of hemispherical TiO2 films.
Temperature dependence of low‐frequency polarized Raman scattering spectra in TlInS2
Authors: Paucar Raul , Shim YongGu , Mimura Kojiro , Wakita Kazuki , Alekperov Oktay , Mamedov Nazim
Published: April 2022

In this work, we examined phase transitions in the layered ternary thallium chalcogenide TlInS2 by studying the temperature dependence of polarized Raman spectra with the aid of the Raman confocal microscope system. The Raman spectra were measured over the temperature range of 77–320 K (which includes the range of successive phase transitions) in the low‐frequency region of 35–180 cm−1. The optical phonons that showed strong temperature dependence were identified as interlayer vibrations related to phase transitions, while the phonons that showed weak temperature dependence were identified as intralayer vibrations.
Synergistic effects of Nepeta menthoides and Melissa officinalis aqueous extracts on reserpine‐induced depressive‐like behaviors in mice
Authors: Talebi Sedighe , Rahmati Batool , Jorjani Masoumeh , Emadi Fatemeh , Ghaffari Farzaneh , Naseri Mohsen
Published: April 2022

Nepeta menthoides Boiss. & Buhse and Melissa officinalis are extensively used in Persian medicine for the treatment of depression. Considering the active ingredients and main phenolic compounds of these plants and possible synergistic effects, this study examined the antidepressant and antioxidant activities of aqueous extract of N. menthoides (NM) and M. officinalis (MO) in reserpinized mice alone and combination. Mice were pretreated orally for 1‐week with normal saline (10 ml/kg), fluoxetine (20 mg/kg), imipramine (10 mg/kg), NM (50–100–200–400 mg/kg), MO (150–350–550–750 mg/kg), and combination (NM 50 with MO 150 mg/kg). The behavioral changes were evaluated using forced swim, tail suspension, and open field tests, 24 hr after reserpine injection (4 mg/kg) on eighth day. The amounts of active components in the extracts and catalase (CAT) as a brain oxidative stress were measured with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Data showed that this combination produced a synergistic action on behaviors and a significant increase in CAT activity. High‐performance liquid chromatography results showed that rosmarinic acid contents in MO and NM were 6.42 ± 1.1 and 11.03 ± 2.16 mg/g of dried extract, respectively. Total flavonoid and phenolic contents of MO were higher than NM. The findings suggest that the present combination produces an antidepressant‐like effect, which is possibly triggered by its antioxidant properties.
Reimagining and redesigning teaching and learning in the post‐pandemic world
Authors: Marmolejo Francisco J. , Groccia James E.
Published: April 2022

The pandemic has provided a unique window of opportunity for higher education institutions to change because of the disruptions in normal ways of operating. The pandemic crisis has created opportunities to revise our strategies, internal and external partnerships, teaching methods, student pathways and recruitment approaches, incentive systems, faculty expertise, assessment approaches, and overarching goals of higher education. This article discusses a proactive stance suggesting that higher education must respond not only to the past, not even to the present, but to future needs.
Genetic variants in the serum amyloid A2 (SAA2) gene as a potential marker for milk production traits in Chinese Holstein cows
Authors: Raza Sayed Haidar Abbas , Liang Chengcheng , Alshammari Ahmed Mohajja , Aloufi Bandar H. , Gui Linsheng , Khan Rajwali , Zan Linsen
Published: April 2022

Background

This study was conducted to detect potential polymorphisms of the serum amyloid A2 (SAA2) gene and explore their relationships with milk production traits in Chinese Holstein cows.

Objectives: This study used

sequencing technology conducted in 532 Chinese Holstein cows.

Methods

Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified within intron 1, named g.14061A>G, g.14072G>C and g.14819C>T. Eight estimated haplotypes were identified, of which three major haplotypes had a frequency of Hap3 (‐ACC‐), Hap5 (‐GCC‐) and Hap2 (‐AGT‐), with 17.9%, 12.30% and 8.10%, respectively.

Results

The association analysis of single markers (g.14061A>G and g.14819C>T) and combined genotypes (Hap1/5) revealed prominent effects on milk production traits in Chinese Holstein cows (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the SAA2 gene is associated with economic traits in Chinese Holstein cows and may be used as candidate gene for marker‐assisted selection and management in breeding programs.
Synthesis of a mixed‐valent europium(II, III)‐borate and its optical and magnetic behavior
Authors: Gatterdam Maximilian , Kannengießer Nils , Albert Barbara , Glaum Robert
Published: April 2022

The mixed‐valent, europium borate Eu5(BO3)4 was synthesized from Eu2B2O5 and EuB2O4. Its structure was refined by Rietveld analysis. Eu5(BO3)4 crystallizes in space group Pnma (a=2229.77(2) pm, b=1599.91(2) pm, and c=877.75(1) pm) and was found to be isostructural with Eu5(BO2.51N0.49)4. Powder reflectance spectra (UV/vis/NIR) and magnetic susceptibility data of Eu5(BO3)4 and of the reference compounds EuIIB4O7 and EuIIIBO3 were measured. The spectrum of the mixed‐valent europium(II, III) borate shows the 7F0→7F6 transition of the Eu3+ ion and the intervalence charge transfer Eu2+→Eu3+. The experimental Bohr magneton number of Eu5(BO3)4, μobs/μB=14.90, agrees well to μcalc/μB for a combination of three Eu2+ and two Eu3+ per formula.
Hydrogen Bond‐Assisted Fluoride Binding by a Stiborane
Authors: Karimi M. , Gabbaï F. P.
Published: April 2022

To augment the fluoride binding ability of Lewis acidic stiboranes, we have synthesized and characterized a SbV derivative (PhSbF2((o‐(NH(2,6‐C6H3F2)C6H4)2, 3) featuring diarylamine groups installed in proximity to the antimony center and poised to engage Sb‐bound fluoride anions in hydrogen bonding interactions. A competition experiment between 3 and Ph3SbF2 (4) along with calculations show that the fluoride ion affinity of 3 is superior to that of 4.
Case Study: Using Methodology to Assess the Selected Details
Authors: Azinović Boris , Kilar Vojko , Koren David
Published: April 2022

In this chapter the proposed methodology was used for evaluation of several most common building details/connections. It was shown how the proposed methodology can be used to separate better detail solutions from poorer ones, by recognizing inappropriate load-bearing capacity, stiffness, interruptions, asymmetrical solutions, and other important characteristics that affect the quality of a detail to be used in earthquake-resistant structure.
Conclusions
Authors: Azinović Boris , Kilar Vojko , Koren David
Published: April 2022

The research conducted in the monograph confirms the hypothesis that the principles of energy-efficient buildings (particularly requirements to prevent thermal bridges) can reduce the earthquake resistance of structures in comparison with conventional earthquake-resistant construction. The proposed methodology presents a suitable tool for recognition and design of earthquake resistant - energy effective structural detail.
Higher Education in Australia
Authors: Benner Mats , Grant Jonathan , O’Kane Mary
Published: April 2022

This chapter outlines the evolution of universities in Australia. The chapter shows how Australian universities have been shaped in the interplay between academic, political and economic forces, and how the model of university governance has exposed them to vulnerabilities that ensue in periods of rapid ruptures in the surrounding society, especially when the globalisation of higher education is in peril. The chapter pays particular attention to the responses that have unfolded to the COVID-19 pandemic but also more generally to how universities have balanced the orientation to global templates with that of societal expectations.
The Lived Experience of Professional Staff Response to COVID
Authors: Benner Mats , Grant Jonathan , O’Kane Mary
Published: April 2022

This chapter is composed of short recollections of events and responses during the pandemic, in particular how the experience of individual professional staff members coalesced with organisational dynamics, and how each of the contributors responded to and was affected by the pandemic, on a personal and a professional level. In this chapter, the experiences of staff form the centrepiece, and how this group adapted its ways of providing services and relating to students, faculty and leadership in so doing.
The Lived Experience of University Leaders During the COVID Pandemic
Authors: Benner Mats , Grant Jonathan , O’Kane Mary
Published: April 2022

The chapter is composed of short recollections of events and responses before and during the pandemic, in particular how the experience of individuals coalesced with the organisational, and how each of the contributors responded to and was affected by the pandemic, on a personal and a professional level. In this chapter, the experiences of leaders form the centrepiece, and how this group adapted its ways of doing management and relating to students, staff, faculty and the political systems, and how they aligned societal needs with professional development.
On-board reagent storage and release by solvent-selective, rotationally opened membranes: a digital twin approach
Authors: Ducrée Jens
Published: April 2022

Decentralized bioanalytical testing in resource-poor settings ranks among the most common applications of microfluidic systems. The high operational autonomy in such point-of-care/point-of-use scenarios requires long-term onboard storage of liquid reagents, which also need to be safely contained during transport and handling, and then reliably released just prior to their introduction to an assay protocol. Over the recent decades, centrifugal microfluidic technologies have demonstrated the capability of integrated, automated and parallelized sample preparation and detection of bioanalytical protocols. This paper presents a novel technique for onboard storage of liquid reagents which can be issued by a rotational stimulus of the system-innate spindle motor, while still aligning with the conceptual simplicity of such “Lab-on-a-Disc” (LoaD) systems. In this work, this highly configurable reagent storage technology is captured by a digital twin, which permits complex performance analysis and algorithmic design optimization according to objectives as expressed by target metrics.
Non-targeted analysis with high-resolution mass spectrometry for investigation of riverbank filtration processes
Authors: Kutlucinar Kaan Georg , Handl Sebastian , Allabashi Roza , Causon Tim , Troyer Christina , Mayr Ernest , Perfler Reinhard , Hann Stephan
Published: April 2022

A fully non-targeted analytical workflow for the investigation of a riverbank filtration site located at the river Danube has been developed and applied. Variations of compound intensities at different sampling locations of the riverbank filtration site and, for a single production well, over a monitoring period of one year have been investigated using liquid chromatography combined with time-of-flight-mass spectrometry followed by evaluation via non-targeted data analysis. Internal standardization and appropriate quality control strategies have been implemented into the workflow for reduction of possible methodological biases influencing data interpretation. Emphasis was placed on the assessment of different blank elimination steps and the final blank elimination strategy is reported. The spatial study of the selected riverbank filtration site revealed a homogenous composition of the filtered water sampled at 11 different locations across the 32,000 m2 site, except for one sampling location in a zone of the aquifer, which was only weakly connected to the well field in terms of hydrogeological conditions. The examination of time-dependent changes of the composition of surface and groundwater obtained at the riverbank filtration system revealed that the non-targeted workflow is fit-for-purpose regarding the assessment the stability of filtration efficiency and compound residence time in the riverbank filtration compartment. In total, 677 compounds were selected for the investigation of the time-dependent variations of the filtration process. Analysis of the signal intensities of these compounds revealed that the riverbank filtration is significantly reducing the intensity and number of compounds present in surface water over a wide polarity range. In addition, the method enabled the determination of compound residence times in the riverbank filtration system ranging from 5 to 7 days.
Cost-effectiveness of romosozumab for the treatment of postmenopausal women at very high risk of fracture in Canada
Authors: Goeree Ron , Burke Natasha , Jobin Manon , Brown Jacques P. , Lawrence Donna , Stollenwerk Björn , Willems Damon , Johnson Ben
Published: April 2022

Summary

This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of 1 year of romosozumab followed by alendronate versus oral bisphosphonates alone in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis at very high risk for fracture in Canada. Results showed that romosozumab sequenced to alendronate is a cost-effective treatment option, dominating both alendronate and risedronate alone.

Purpose

To demonstrate the value of romosozumab sequenced to alendronate compared to alendronate or risedronate alone, for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women with a history of osteoporotic fracture and who are at very high risk for future fracture in Canada.

Methods

A Markov model followed a hypothetical cohort of postmenopausal osteoporotic women at very high risk for future fractures, to estimate the cost-effectiveness of romosozumab and alendronate compared to oral bisphosphonates alone. A total treatment period of 5 years was assumed. Quality-adjusted life years and costs were estimated for each comparator across health states defined by different types of fragility fractures.

Results

Romosozumab/alendronate was associated with a lifetime gain of 0.103 and 0.127 QALYs and a cost reduction of $343 and $3805, relative to alendronate and risedronate, respectively. These results were driven by a reduction of the number of fractures (2561 per 1000 patients, versus 2700 for alendronate and 2724 for risedronate over lifetime). Romosozumab/alendronate had the highest probability of being cost-effective, relative to alendronate and risedronate, at any willingness to pay threshold value.

Conclusion

Romosozumab/alendronate was associated with reduced costs and greater benefit relative to other comparators. Probabilistic, deterministic, and scenario analyses indicate that romosozumab/alendronate represents the best value for money; the uncertainty analyses are robust, and therefore romosozumab should be considered for reimbursement by public drug plans in Canada .
Traceological analysis of lithics from the Camel Site, al-Jawf, Saudi Arabia: an experimental approach to identifying mineral processing activities using silcrete tools
Authors: Hilbert Yamandú H. , Clemente-Conte Ignacio , Crassard Rémy , Charloux Guillaume , Guagnin Maria , AlSharekh Abdullah M.
Published: April 2022

The Camel Site is in the north of Saudi Arabia in the province of al-Jawf. It is characterised by three decaying sandstone hillocks with life-sized 3D engravings (or reliefs) of camels and equids likely carved during later prehistory. A survey in the central area of the site identified clusters of flakes and other flintknapping remains in the lower areas between the sandstone spurs and larger silcrete tools directly underneath the animal depictions. Some of these tools presented abraded edges, possibly from prolonged contact with the soft and abrasive sandstone that constitutes the rock spurs where the animals were carved. Experiments were performed to test this hypothesis and have a reference collection for further traceological analysis. The chaine opératoire of the experimental engraving tools, from raw material procurement, tool manufacture and use, reuse and discard, was conducted with locally available materials comparable to the archaeological specimens. Specific experimental variables, including how the force was applied, in what direction the movement took place and the orientation of the stone tool during the experiment, were also recorded. Macro- and microscopic analyses of the experimental collection and a sample of archaeological artefacts seem to show that the ancient tools found on the surface were probably used to make the camelid and equid reliefs at the site.
Avian Toxins and Poisoning Mechanisms
Authors: Yeung Kara A. , Chai Peter R. , Russell Brendan L. , Erickson Timothy B.
Published: April 2022

All around the world, there are species of birds that have developed the ability to acquire toxic chemicals in their bodies making them less palatable or even lethal when consumed or contacted. Exposure to poisonous bird species is rare among humans, yet their poisons can produce serious clinical outcomes. In this study, we conducted a literature search focusing on seven avian species: the pitohuis (Pitohui spp.), blue-capped ifrita (Ifrita kowaldi), European quail (Cortunix corturnix coturnix), spur or spoor-winged goose (Plectropterus gambensis), North American ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus), Brush bronzewings (Phaps elegans), and European hoopoes and woodhoopoes (Upupa epops and Phoeniculus purpureus, respectively). We present the geographic distribution of each poisonous bird, toxin physiology and origin, clinical signs and symptoms of poisoning, cases of human toxicity if available and discuss the birds’ ability to prevent self-intoxication. Our results suggest that most cases of contact with toxic birds produce mild symptoms as most of these birds apart from the European quail (C. c. corturnix) and North American ruffed grouse (B. umbellus) are not commonly consumed by humans. Furthermore, we discuss several methods of toxin acquisition in these bird species, which are mostly diet acquired apart from the hoopoes and woodhoopoes (Upupa and Phoeniculus spp.) who have a symbiotic relationship with chemical-producing bacteria in their uropygial glands. In summary, our study provides a comprehensive review of the toxic physiology, clinical manifestations, and evolutionary insight to avian toxins.
Risk factors for recurrence and complications in acute uncomplicated diverticulitis: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sahli Hannah , Azhar Najia , Lydrup Marie-Louise , Jörgren Fredrik , Schultz Johannes , Buchwald Pamela
Published: April 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Antibiotics for acute uncomplicated diverticulitis (AUD) have been questioned in several studies. Thus, it is of value to identify risk factors for recurrence and complications to identify the best strategy for treatment. The aim was to investigate risk factors for recurrence and complications within at least 1 year after hospitalization for AUD.

Methods:

This is a retrospective study, including patients hospitalized with AUD at Helsingborg Hospital and Skåne University Hospital in Sweden during January 1st, 2015–December 31st, 2017. The cohort was primarily collected via the in-patient registry. Patients with multiple registrations, acute complicated diverticulitis, ongoing antibiotics, other diagnoses, immunosuppression and non-CT-verified diagnosis were excluded. Follow-up was ≥1 year. SPSS was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Out of 596 patients, 23% experienced recurrences and 3% experienced complications. Previous diverticulitis [OR 2.86 (CI 1.85–4.55) P < 0.001] and complications [OR 1.35 (CI 1.18–1.42) P < 0.001] were independent risk factors for recurrence. A higher Charlson morbidity index (CMI) [OR 1.27 (1.0–1.61) P = 0.04] and previous diverticulitis [OR 3.68 (1.24–10.9) P = 0.013] were associated with complications. 75% of the patients received antibiotics but this did not significantly improve outcomes.

Conclusion:

A history of previous diverticulitis or complications increases the risk for AUD recurrence. A higher CMI and a history of previous diverticulitis may be risk factors for complications but needs to be further assessed. Treatment with antibiotics does not appear to improve the outcome. Choice of treatment should therefore be individualized and based on risk factors for complications and recurrence.
“A Gallant Fight”: The UAW and the 1970 General Motors Strike
Authors: Minchin Timothy J.
Published: April 2022

On 15 September 1970, over 400,000 workers struck General Motors (GM), the biggest corporation in the world. It was a massive walkout, lasting sixty-seven days and affecting 145 GM plants in the US and Canada. GM lost more than $1 billion in profits, and the impact on the US economy was considerable. Despite the strike's size, it has been understudied. Fifty years later, this article provides a re-assessment of this landmark dispute, the first to use detailed archival records of the strike. Refuting claims that the strike lacked drama, I argue that this was a multifaceted – and compelling – story. Primary sources show that workers and union leaders were heavily invested in the battle, which reflected deep-seated local, national, and global issues. The United Automobile Workers (UAW) mobilized significant levels of national and international support, and won a range of concessions, including substantial wage and benefit increases and the ability for workers to retire after thirty years’ service. The strike was deeply infused by local issues and should not just be viewed through the lens of the national GM–UAW relationship. In a broader context, the strike is also important because it occurred at a time of rising global labour militancy, which scholars are increasingly recognizing. Its story contributes to a growing body of literature on the 1970s, a decade that witnessed important activism in many areas.
A hybrid indoor/outdoor detection approach for smartphone-based seamless positioning
Authors: Bai Yuntian Brian , Holden Lucas , Kealy Allison , Zaminpardaz Safoora , Choy Suelynn
Published: April 2022

Indoor/Outdoor (IO) detection (IOD) using Wi-Fi- and smartphone-based technologies is in high demand and interest in both the industrial and research fields. This paper proposes a novel and effective hybrid IOD (HIOD) approach for detecting a smartphone user's IO location. The HIOD approach uses signals received from both Wi-Fi and GPS as well as the latest positioning technologies such as multilateration, fingerprinting and machine learning. This paper proposes and implements two-level signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) threshold parameters for the first time, which are specifically derived from GPS signals through 42 empirical tests at seven test sites with adequate environmental factors considered. Using the newly derived IOD threshold parameters and a set of IO detection rules, the HIOD approach is then tested at 20 test points (TPs) in a city canyon area, where most of the TPs are under semi-indoor or semi-outdoor conditions. The final test results show that a 100% IOD rate is achieved.
Asymptotic and transient dynamics of SEIR epidemic models on weighted networks
Authors: TIAN CANRONG , LIU ZUHAN , RUAN SHIGUI
Published: April 2022

We study the effect of population mobility on the transmission dynamics of infectious diseases by considering a susceptible-exposed-infectious-recovered (SEIR) epidemic model with graph Laplacian diffusion, that is, on a weighted network. First, we establish the existence and uniqueness of solutions to the SEIR model defined on a weighed graph. Then by constructing Liapunov functions, we show that the disease-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable if the basic reproduction number is less than unity and the endemic equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable if the basic reproduction number is greater than unity. Finally, we apply our generalized weighed graph to Watts–Strogatz network and carry out numerical simulations, which demonstrate that degrees of nodes determine peak numbers of the infectious population as well as the time to reach these peaks. It also indicates that the network has an impact on the transient dynamical behaviour of the epidemic transmission.
The Mental Well-Being of Young Children and Families at the Beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Germany
Authors: Tisborn Katharina , Pelz Janika D. , Schneider Silvia , Seehagen Sabine
Published: April 2022

Abstract. During the spring of 2020, the lockdown in Europe, enacted as a countermeasure to the COVID-19 pandemic, dramatically changed the social and daily life of young families. This online study explored the potential consequences of these unprecedented circumstances for the well-being of young German families. Caregivers completed a standardized questionnaire on their positive mental well-being and open-ended questions referring to their family situation and children. Although there is an emerging body of research describing pandemic-related outcomes in older children, little is known about its impact during early development. Hence, our analyses focused on a subset of caregivers of N = 798 children aged 0 to 23 months. Answers to open-ended questions revealed predominantly negative changes in their children and family life as a whole. During the lockdown, the well-being of the caregivers decreased. Taken together, the data show that social changes caused by the lockdown affected the well-being of young families. Potential mechanisms of stress transmission between parents and children are discussed.
A New Population of Ultra‐Relativistic Electrons in the Outer Radiation Zone
Authors: Shprits Yuri Y. , Allison Hayley J. , Wang Dedong , Drozdov Alexander , Szabo‐Roberts Matyas , Zhelavskaya Irina , Vasile Ruggero
Published: April 2022

Van Allen Probes measurements revealed the presence of the most unusual structures in the ultra‐relativistic radiation belts. Detailed modeling, analysis of pitch angle distributions, analysis of the difference between relativistic and ultra‐realistic electron evolution, along with theoretical studies of the scattering and wave growth, all indicate that electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves can produce a very efficient loss of the ultra‐relativistic electrons in the heart of the radiation belts. Moreover, a detailed analysis of the profiles of phase space densities provides direct evidence for localized loss by EMIC waves. The evolution of multi‐MeV fluxes shows dramatic and very sudden enhancements of electrons for selected storms. Analysis of phase space density profiles reveals that growing peaks at different values of the first invariant are formed at approximately the same radial distance from the Earth and show the sequential formation of the peaks from lower to higher energies, indicating that local energy diffusion is the dominant source of the acceleration from MeV to multi‐MeV energies. Further simultaneous analysis of the background density and ultra‐relativistic electron fluxes shows that the acceleration to multi‐MeV energies only occurs when plasma density is significantly depleted outside of the plasmasphere, which is consistent with the modeling of acceleration due to chorus waves.
Nanosecond optical switching and control system for data center networks
Authors: Xue Xuwei , Calabretta Nicola
Published: April 2022

Electrical switching based data center networks have an intrinsic bandwidth bottleneck and, require inefficient and power-consuming multi-tier switching layers to cope with the rapid growing traffic in data centers. With the benefits of ultra-large bandwidth, high-efficient cost and power consumption, switching traffic in the optical domain has been investigated to replace the electrical switches inside data center networks. However, the deployment of nanosecond optical switches remains a challenge due to the lack of corresponding nanosecond switch control, the lack of optical buffers for packet contention, and the requirement of nanosecond clock and data recovery. In this work, a nanosecond optical switching and control system has been experimentally demonstrated to enable an optically switched data center network with 43.4 nanosecond switching and control capability and with packet contention resolution as well as 3.1 nanosecond clock and data recovery.
An osmium-peroxo complex for photoactive therapy of hypoxic tumors
Authors: Lu Nong , Deng Zhihong , Gao Jing , Liang Chao , Xia Haiping , Zhang Pingyu
Published: April 2022

The limited therapeutic effect on hypoxic and refractory solid tumors has hindered the practical application of photodynamic therapy. Herein, we report our investigation of an osmium-peroxo complex (Os2), which is inactive in the dark, but can release a peroxo ligand O2•− upon light irradiation even in the absence of oxygen, and is transformed into a cytotoxic osmium complex (Os1). Os1 is cytotoxic in the presence or absence of irradiation in hypoxic tumors, behaving as a chemotherapeutic drug. At the same time, the light-activated Os2 induces photocatalytic oxidation of endogenous 1,4-dihydronicotinamide adenine dinucleotide in living cancer cells, leading to ferroptosis, which is mediated by glutathione degradation, lipid peroxide accumulation and down-regulation of glutathione peroxidase 4. In vivo studies have confirmed that the Os2 can effectively inhibit the growth of solid hypoxic tumors in mice. A promising strategy is proposed for the treatment of hypoxic tumors with metal-based drugs.