bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversible Phase Transformations in Novel Ce‐Substituted Perovskite Oxide Composites for Solar Thermochemical Redox Splitting of CO2
Authors: Naik J. Madhusudhan , Ritter Clemens , Bulfin Brendan , Steinfeld Aldo , Erni Rolf , Patzke Greta R.
Published: March 2021

Thermochemical splitting of CO2 and H2O via two‐step metal oxide redox cycles offers a promising approach to produce solar fuels. Perovskite‐type oxides with the general formula ABO3 have recently gained attention as an attractive redox material alternative to the state‐of‐the‐art ceria, due to their high structural and thermodynamic tunability. A novel Ce‐substituted lanthanum strontium manganite perovskite‐oxide composite, La3+0.48Sr2+0.52(Ce4+0.06Mn3+0.79)O2.55 (LSC25M75) is introduced, aiming to bridge the gap between ceria and perovskite oxide‐based materials by overcoming their individual thermodynamic constraints. Thermochemical CO2 splitting redox cyclability of LSC25M75 evaluated with a thermogravimetric analyzer and an infrared furnace reactor over 100 consecutive redox cycles demonstrates a twofold higher conversion extent to CO than one of the best Mn‐based perovskite oxides, La0.60Sr0.40MnO3. Based on complementary in situ high temperature neutron, synchrotron X‐ray, and electron diffraction experiments, unprecedented structural and mechanistic insight is obtained into thermochemical perovskite oxide materials. A novel CO2 splitting reaction mechanism is presented, involving reversible temperature induced phase transitions from the n = 1 Ruddlesden–Popper phase (Sr1.10La0.64Ce0.26)MnO3.88 (I4/mmm, K2NiF4‐type) at reduction temperature (1350 °C) to the n = 2 Ruddlesden–Popper phase (Sr2.60La0.22Ce0.18)Mn2O6.6 (I4/mmm, Sr3Ti2O7‐type) at re‐oxidation temperature (1000 °C) after the CO2 splitting step.
A novel method for measuring dynamic contact angles of fibers with spindle‐knots
Authors: Aliabadi Maryam , Konrad Wilfried , Stegmaier Thomas , von Arnim Volkmar , Kaya Cigdem , Liu Yan , Zhan Bin , Wang Gouyong , Gresser Götz
Published: March 2021

The determination of the dynamic contact angle is of significant interest for the characterization of the wettability of technical fibers and textiles in diverse fields of science and technology. There exist traditional methods for dynamic contact angle measurements of flat surfaces and of fibers with a uniform cross‐sectional shape along the fiber. So far, however, no method has been reported which is suitable for structured fibers, particularly for spindle‐knotted structured fibers of varying cross‐sections. This article describes a new method for measuring the dynamic contact angle for polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) spindle‐knotted structured fibers. The method is an outcome of integrating the results obtained from experiments (applying force tensiometry) and a proposed theoretical model describing such fibers. The reliability and conformity of the results are shown by comparing the measured dynamic contacts angle of PDMS as spindle‐knot and as a flat surface. This method may pave the road for better wettability analysis of various structured fibers. It also allows to measure the local receding and advancing contact angles for macroscopic/microscopic structured fibers (especially when they are not accessible as flat surfaces) against the various test liquids.
DFT Study on Dinuclear Palladium Complex Catalyzed Pyrrole Formation From tert‐Butyl Isocyanide and Alkynes
Authors: Lai Xiaoling , Li Yang
Published: March 2021

Density functional theory calculations were carried out to study the mechanisms of Pd‐catalyzed reactions of alkynes with tert‐butyl isocyanide forming pyrroles. In the case of di‐palladium catalysis, the calculations indicated that alkyne insertion, isocyanide insertion, intramolecular cyclization, isocyanide insertion, isomerization and ligand substitution were involved in the mechanism. The intramolecular cyclization process was calculated to be the rate‐determining step in the catalytic cycle. The substituent effects on the regioselectivity of reaction were also analyzed. In addition, detailed calculations on mono‐palladium catalysis showed that the activity of mononuclear catalysis was not as high as that of di‐palladium catalysis. These calculation results were in good agreement with the experimental results.
Oral health profile of postbariatric surgery individuals: A case series
Authors: Taghat Negin , Mossberg Karin , Lingström Peter , Björkman Sofia , Lehrkinder Anna , Werling Malin , Östberg Anna‐Lena
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To describe the oral health profile of individuals who had undergone gastric bypass surgery (GBP) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) to generate hypotheses for further studies.

Material and Methods

Fourteen individuals treated with GBP or SG surgery ≥ 2 years ago and with observed and/or perceived oral problems were recruited to a case series. The documentation included clinical and radiographic examinations, biomedical sampling, and self‐reported diet and questionnaires. The results are presented descriptively.

Results: The age range was 31 to 66 years and all had a BMI > 25 (range 25.4–44.7). Only four participants were fully dentate. Eleven out of 14 individuals exhibited severe decay. A majority had poor oral hygiene and high bacterial counts. The flow rates of unstimulated saliva were extremely low and hyposalivation was present in ten of the fourteen cases. Most perceived several oral health problems, such as chewing difficulty and tooth hypersensitivity.

Conclusions

Individuals who had undergone GBP or SG surgery had poor clinically diagnosed oral health and perceived oral health problems. Longitudinal studies are needed to monitor the patients' oral health, from before bariatric surgery to long‐term postoperatively.
Clinical value of 2D speckle tracking imaging in evaluating the effect of percutaneous intramyocardial septal radiofrequency ablation in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy
Authors: Qian Dajun , Zhou Xiaojun , Liu Huan , Cao Lijun
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To explore the short‐term changes after percutaneous intramyocardial septal radiofrequency ablation (PIMSRA) in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM), using quantitative analysis of two‐dimensional speckle tracking imaging (2D‐STI).

Methods

This prospective self‐controlled study included 30 HOCM patients treated with PIMSRA. The study for each patient spanned over at least 1 year. Interventricular septal thickness and the left ventricular outflow tract peak pressure gradient (LVOT‐PG) were measured through echocardiography, and 2D‐STI was used to evaluate the left ventricular (LV) systolic function and synchrony. Cardiac function was assessed using the New York Heart Association's (NYHA) functional classification for cardiac disease, and through the serum levels of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP). Biomarkers procollagen type I carboxy‐terminal propeptide (PICP) and matrix metalloproteinases‐2 (MMP‐2) were detected for noninvasive assessment of myocardial fibrosis.

Results

The patients' interventricular septal thickness, LVOT‐PG, NYHA class, and plasma PICP and MMP‐2 levels at the first month postoperatively were significantly lower than before operation (all P < .05). The 2D‐STI quantitative variables of LV systolic function and synchrony improved significantly (all P < .05). They improved further 1 year postoperatively (P < .01 or P < .001). Serum cTnI and NT‐proBNP levels increased 1 month postoperatively, but significantly decreased 1 year postoperatively (both P < .05). Pearson or Spearman correlation analysis showed that the improvement of interventricular septal thickness, LVOT‐PG, NYHA class, and the levels of cTnI, NT‐proBNP, PICP and MMP‐2, were in positive correlation with the restoration of LV systolic function and synchrony (P < .01 or P < .001).

Conclusion

The changes in 2D‐STI quantitative variables related to LV systolic function and synchrony are closely correlated with the improvement of cardiac function in HOCM patients after PIMSRA. These 2D‐STI variables can serve for objective, accurate, and noninvasive evaluation of the HOCM treatment.
Real‐world management of maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) metabolic decompensations with branched chain amino acid‐free formulas in France and Germany: A retrospective observational study
Authors: de Lonlay Pascale , Posset Roland , Mütze Ulrike , Mention Karine , Lamireau Delphine , Schiff Manuel , Servais Aude , Arnoux Jean Baptiste , Brassier Anaïs , Dao Myriam , Douillard Claire , Ottolenghi Chris , Pontoizeau Clément , Miotto Federica , Le Mouhaër Jeannie
Published: March 2021

Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is a rare inborn metabolic disorder, managed with a strict protein‐restricted diet. At any time or age patients may still experience metabolic decompensations, requiring administration of branched chain amino acid (BCAA)‐free formula to reduce leucine levels. This retrospective observational study of 126 decompensation episodes from 54 MSUD patients treated at five centers in France and Germany from 2010 to 2016, describes episodes and outcomes for patients stratified into groups who received enteral/oral or intravenous (IV) BCAA‐free formula, and by pediatric or adult age categories. IV administration of BCAA‐free formula was required in cases of gastric intolerance (33%), refusal to undergo nasogastric tubing (31%), “emergency” (14%) or coma patients (8%), and as prophylaxis before surgery (6%). Overall, mean duration of hospitalization was 6.6 days with oral/enteral BCAA‐free formula and 5.4 days with IV formula. Leucine levels at discharge decreased by a mean of 548.5 μmol/L (69.3%) in the oral/enteral group and 657.2 μmol/L (71.3%) in the IV group. In the pediatric subgroup, there were no marked differences between administration groups on any outcome. In the adult subgroup, mean time to episode resolution was 15.8 days in the oral/enteral group and 7.7 days in the IV group (P = .008); mean duration of hospitalization was 6 days in the oral/enteral group and 4.6 days in the IV group (P = NS). Overall, seven serious adverse events in two patients were reported, of which only nausea and vomiting were treatment related.
Examining the utility of lower dose radiotherapy for localised primary ocular adnexal MALT lymphoma
Authors: Leeson Sarah , Jayamohan Jayasingham , Vu Hanh , Sundaresan Puma
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Most primary ocular adnexal lymphomas are those involving mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT). Radiotherapy (RT) dose regimens in the literature vary from the historically used high doses (up to 56 Gy) to lower dose RT. We aimed to examine our institution’s experience with the use of orbital RT for treating early‐stage primary ocular adnexal MALT lymphoma (POAML).

Methods

Patients treated for stage I or II POAML over a 12‐year period (July 2006 to June 2018) were identified through institutional databases. Data were retrospectively collated through review of patient records. Descriptive statistical methods were employed to analyse the data.

Results

Eighteen patients (median age of 67; range 44‐87yrs) with localised POAML (3 cases of bilateral disease) were identified, resulting in a total of 21 evaluable orbits. Eight (44%) patients were female, and all were documented to be of good performance status (ECOG 0‐1). The median follow‐up was 34 months (range 8‐75 months). The commonest dose fractionation used was 20 Gy in 10 fractions (n = 13 orbits) and a 3D conformal or volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) technique was used in the majority of cases. None of the patients experienced an in‐field recurrence. One patient had experienced a contralateral orbital recurrence two years post‐unilateral orbital RT for orbital MALT lymphoma. Three patients experienced distant relapse.

Conclusion

The use of lower dose orbital RT such as 20 Gy in 10 fractions (or radio biologically equivalent) yields excellent local disease control in the management of ocular adnexal MALT lymphoma. The durability of the response appears to be favourable. Given the indolent nature of the disease and the low levels of toxicity associated with lower dose orbital RT, this regimen remains our favoured approach to the management of localised POAML.
Fabrication of Regenerated Cellulose Fibers with Good Strength and Biocompatibility from Green Spinning Process of Ionic Liquid
Authors: Zhou Le , Kang Zhaoqing , Nie Yi , Li Liying
Published: March 2021

In this study, 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium diethyl phosphate, having the advantages of regulating the performance of cellulose dissolution and degradation, simplicity in synthesis, is chosen as solvent to dissolve wood pulp cellulose for regenerated cellulose fibers (RCFs) manufacture using dry‐jet wet spinning equipment. The effect of draw ratios on RCFs’ mechanical properties in three bathes, including coagulation bath, stretch bath, and washing bath is investigated and a series of RCFs with high strength are obtained. The morphology, crystallinity, thermal stability, and dyeing behavior of the prepared RCFs are analyzed and discussed. More importantly, the biocompatibility of the RCFs, which is first performed, demonstrated that the toxicity of RCFs is as low as the viscose fibers. These RCFs could be easily dyed by natural turmeric and antibacterial fibers are obtained finally. In conclusion, this work provides tools for achievement of RCFs with good strength and environmental friendliness by changing the draw ratios, and also further develops a new green process for fabricating RCFs based on ionic liquids.
Two‐stage decision‐making within the firm: Analysis and case studies
Authors: Hsu Yu‐Lin , Reid Gavin C.
Published: March 2021

This article analyses, with case study illustrations, a two‐stage decision support technique for making informed choices within firms. The technique can assist managers by the use of simple decision‐tree diagrams, assigning values to its branches. The technique is based on the microeconomics of choice orderings, and we demonstrate how appropriate decision trees can be constructed and applied. This technique is illustrated by three case study vignettes based on real actions of UK firms. These show how such decision trees can both aid our understanding of choices made and assist in the practice of choosing financial reporting regimes and techniques.
Laboratory monitoring of nusinersen safety
Authors: Goedeker Natalie L. , Gibbons Jennifer L. , Varadhachary Arun S. , Connolly Anne M. , Zaidman Craig M.
Published: March 2021

Introduction

This retrospective study reports our tertiary care center's experience with intrathecal nusinersen administration in children and adults with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

Methods

We reviewed safety monitoring laboratory results and need for procedural sedation and fluoroscopy‐guidance in all SMA patients receiving nusinersen between February 2017 and March 2020.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients ages 1 mo‐ 56 y received 494 nusinersen doses. There were 166 laboratory abnormalities in 45 patients. Most were either mild (145 [87.3%]) or were transient proteinuria (18 [10.8%]). None altered nusinersen treatment. Twenty‐eight patients required either general anesthesia (75 doses) or anxiolysis with oral midazolam (133 doses, including 6 patients [23 doses] with SMA type I). Eight patients with complicated spines (45 doses) required fluoroscopic guidance. One treatment‐related serious adverse event (emesis leading to intubation) occurred during general anesthesia. Two children had asymptomatic increased intracranial pressure. No patients discontinued treatment due to adverse events.

Discussion

Intrathecal nusinersen is generally safe and well‐tolerated, including in patients requiring oral anxiolysis, general sedation, and fluoroscopic guidance. Frequent serial laboratory monitoring did not identify any persistent significantly abnormal findings or alter treatment.
Thymoma pathology and myasthenia gravis outcomes
Authors: Menon Deepak , Katzberg Hans , Barnett Carolina , Pal Prodipto , Bezjak Andrea , Keshavjee Shaf , Bril Vera
Published: March 2021

Introduction

There is limited evidence regarding the impact of World Health Organization (WHO) subtype of thymoma on post‐thymectomy outcome of thymoma‐associated myasthenia gravis (TAMG). The objective was to determine if the pathological subtypes of thymoma were associated with post‐thymectomy outcomes of myasthenia gravis (MG), in patients with TAMG.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of consecutive patients with TAMG who attended the neuromuscular clinic between January 2018 and December 2019 with a minimum follow‐up of 1 y after thymectomy. Outcome measures were MG Impairment Index (MGII), single‐simple question (SSQ), Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America post‐intervention status (MGFA PIS) and non‐responder MG status at last assessment.

Results

Ninety‐five patients were included; mean age at onset was 48.1 ± 12.1 y; 54(56.8%) were females. Thirteen patients developed MG post‐thymectomy. The most common thymoma was WHO type B2 in 39 (41.1%). Most patients (40, 42.1%) had Masaoka stage II thymoma. There was no association of thymoma subtypes or Masaoka stage of disease with age, gender, MG phenotype, serology, post‐thymectomy onset, interval from onset to thymectomy, MGII, SSQ, MGFA PIS, or non‐responder status. Associations were found between positive serology and lower MGII (11.1 ± 14.2 vs 23 ± 12.9, P = .050), thymic follicular hyperplasia (TFH) and higher SSQ (89.3 ± 11.7 vs 80.1 ± 20.2, P‐.043), and lack of recurrence and higher SSQ (84.1 ± 18 vs 72.5 ± 20, P = .037).

Discussion

The WHO pathological subtype of thymoma did not correlate with MG outcomes. However, positive acetylcholine antibody serology, presence of TFH, and non‐recurrence of thymoma predict a favorable outcome.
How accurately do mechanophores report on bond scission in soft polymer materials?
Authors: Dubach Friso F. C. , Ellenbroek Wouter G. , Storm Cornelis
Published: March 2021

Mechanophores are molecules that are incorporated into a host material and react to the local mechanical condition—the state of stress or strain—of that host material. Among their many purposes is that of a reporter: Mechanophores whose optical activity changes in response to mechanical cues can reveal bulk material processes that are ordinarily hidden, such as fatigue and fracture. Moreover, they may do so well before a material is fully fractured. To extract quantitative information from the optical signals from embedded mechanophores it is important that the mechanophores, which are generally a minority component of the material, report proportionally and unambiguously on the mechanical condition of the bulk. This is particularly important for early reporting of damage and wear, for which the optical signal from the mechanophore should accurately reflect bulk bond scission. In this article, we develop and analyze a general theory for the quality of optical mechanoreporting by mechanophores in soft materials, based on the Bell‐Evans theory of bond breaking. We find, that at the typical low fractions in which mechanophores are incorporated the overall change in strength is limited, but that the proportionality of the reporting can be off by significant amounts, particularly at short times after loading but, for non‐scissile bonds, at long times as well.
Assessment of treatment burden and complexity in cystic fibrosis: A quality improvement project
Authors: Hente Elizabeth , Weiland Jeanne , Mullen Lisa , Hawke Jesse , Schuler Christine L. , Filigno Stephanie S. , Siracusa Christopher
Published: March 2021

Background

Treatment regimens for cystic fibrosis (CF) continue to evolve and grow in complexity. Treatment regimen burden, and associated sequelae, are incompletely understood.

Objective

Quality improvement (QI) methods were used to investigate treatment burden of CF care, family and care team partnerships, and potential interventions to reduce burden.

Methods

Patients 6–24 years with CF and caregivers of patients 6–13 years were surveyed. Portions of validated tools and existing surveys measured burden and family‐care team partnership. An automated report calculated treatment complexity. Plan‐do‐study‐act cycles tested survey administration during CF visits and run charts tracked progress. Interventions to reduce burden were tracked, and bidirectional assessments explored partnerships among patients, families and clinicians.

Results

Over 6 months, 110 patients and 62 caregivers completed assessments. Caregivers reported lower burden/higher quality of life (74.0, range 22.2–100) than patients (66.5, range 16.7–100). The mean treatment complexity score was 17.2 (range 6–34). Treatment complexity and burden increased with patient age (p < .05 and p < .01 respectively). Lower lung function correlated with higher patient‐reported burden (p < .01) and higher treatment complexity (p < .0001). As burden increased, providers more often performed select interventions (discussed combining treatments, simplified regimens, or involved other team members (p < .05 for each)). Families reported high partnership (mean scores 4.7–4.8, 5 = high), and providers reported high utilization of partnership tools (tool used in 77% of encounters).

Conclusion

We assessed, quantified, and responded to treatment burden and complexity in real‐time during outpatient CF visits. Systematic and individualized assessments of treatment complexity and burden may enhance treatment adherence while preserving quality of life.
Management, outcome, and novel classification system of periprosthetic fractures in patients with transcutaneous osseointegrated prosthetic systems (TOPS)—a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Örgel Marcus , Petri Maximilian , Ranker Alexander , Wirries Nils , Graulich Tilman , Krettek Christian , Winkelmann Marcel , Aschoff Horst-Heinrich
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Transcutaneous osseointegrated prosthetic systems (TOPS) are anchored prosthetic systems for major limb loss. Sometimes TOPS patients suffer from periprosthetic fractures. The aim of this study was to analyze the management and outcomes of periprosthetic fractures in patients with TOPS and to introduce a novel classification system for this entity.

Material/methods

Since 2010, 140 patients were treated with TOPS after transfemoral amputation in two centers in Germany. Fifteen patients sustained periprosthetic fractures, with five intra- and ten postoperative fractures. The outcome was analyzed by Prosthesis Mobility Questionnaire (PMQ), K-level and prosthesis wear time per day. A subgroup analysis for the body mass index (BMI) was performed.

Results

All postoperative fractures were treated with implant-retaining osteosynthesis. Fourteen fractures healed without complications after a mean of 3 months. One postoperative fracture developed a clinically asymptomatic firm non-union. No Endo-Fixstem had to be removed. For the fracture and control group, a significant increase of the PMQ (p < 0.001) and K-level (p < 0.001) was observed after TOPS treatment compared to the preoperative baseline. Furthermore, the subgroup analysis showed a significant increase of the PMQ and K-level for both normal weight (p = 0.002) and overweight patients (p < 0.001). Of interest, overweight patients even showed a significantly higher increase in scores compared to normal weight patients, regardless of periprosthetic fracture.

Conclusion

Periprosthetic fractures do not necessarily worsen outcomes of TOPS treatment. Proper classification and standardized appropriate treatment strategies according to fracture morphology are paramount for reliably good outcomes. We recommend to not remove or exchange the implant (Endo-Fixstem) even if it is assembly. Higher BMI did not have an impact onto rehabilitation success after TOPS to major limb loss of the lower extremity.
Distance from the magnification device contributes to differences in lower leg length measured in patients with TSF correction
Authors: Ahrend Marc-Daniel , Rühle Michael , Springer Fabian , Baumgartner Heiko
Published: March 2021

Introduction

In absence of deformity or injury of the contralateral leg, the contralateral leg length is used to plan limb lengthening. Length variability on long-leg weight-bearing radiographs (LLR) can lead to inaccurate deformity correction. The aim of the study was to (1) examine the variability of the measured limb length on LLR and (2) to examine the influence of the position of the magnification device.

Materials and methods

The limb lengths of 38 patients during deformity correction with a taylor-spatial-frame were measured retrospectively on 7.3 ± 2.6 (4–13) LLR per patient. The measured length of the untreated limb between LLR were used to determine length variability between LLR in each patient. To answer the secondary aim, we took LLR from a 90 cm validation distance. A magnification device was placed in different positions: at the middle of the 90 cm distance (z-position), 5 cm anterior and 5 cm posterior from the z-position, at the bottom and top of the validation distance as well as 5 cm medial and 15 cm lateral from the z-position.

Results

The measured length variability ranged within a patient from 10 to 50 mm. 76% of patients had a measured limb length difference of ≥ 2 cm between taken LLR. Compared to length measurement of the 90 cm test object with the magnification device in the z-position (90.1 cm), positioning the device 5 cm anterior led to smaller (88.6 cm) and 5 cm posterior led to larger measurements (91.7 cm). The measured length with the magnification device at the bottom, top, medial or lateral (90.4; 89.9; 90.2; 89.8 cm) to the object differed not relevantly.

Conclusions

High variability of limb length between different LLR within one patient was observed. This can result from different positions of the magnification device in the sagittal plane. These small changes in positioning the device should be avoided to achieve accurate deformity correction and bone lengthening. This should be considered for all length and size measurements on radiographs.
Application of multi-objective Bayesian shape optimisation to a sharp-heeled Kaplan draft tube
Authors: Daniels S. J. , Rahat A. A. M. , Tabor G. R. , Fieldsend J. E. , Everson R. M.
Published: March 2021

The draft tube of a hydraulic turbine plays an important role for the efficiency and power characteristics of the overall system. The shape of the draft tube affects its performance, resulting in an increasing need for data-driven optimisation for its design. In this paper, shape optimisation of an elbow-type draft tube is undertaken, combining Computational Fluid Dynamics and a multi-objective Bayesian methodology. The chosen design objectives were to maximise pressure recovery, and minimise wall-frictional losses along the geometry. The design variables were chosen to explore potential new designs, using a series of subdivision-curves and splines on the inflow cone, outer-heel, and diffuser. The optimisation run was performed under part-load for the Kaplan turbine. The design with the lowest energy-loss identified on the Pareto-front was found to have a straight tapered diffuser, chamfered heel, and a convex inflow cone. Analysis of the performance quantities showed the typically used energy-loss factor and pressure recovery were highly correlated in cases of constant outflow cross-sections, and therefore unsuitable for use of multi-objective optimisation. Finally, a number of designs were tested over a range of discharges. From this it was found that reducing the heel size increased the efficiency over a wider operating range.
Enzymatic reactions in teleocidin B biosynthesis
Authors: Awakawa Takayoshi
Published: March 2021

The teleocidin B family members are terpene indole compounds isolated from Streptomyces bacteria, and they strongly activate protein kinase C (PKC). Their unique structures have attracted many researchers in the natural product chemistry and pharmacology fields, and numerous isolation and bioactivity studies have been conducted. The accumulated information has facilitated the identification of the enzymatic reactions in teleocidin biosynthesis, and new developments in structural biology have strongly aided efforts to clarify the finer points of these reactions. This review describes the recent biochemical and structural biological studies to reveal their reaction mechanisms, with a primary focus on the terpene cyclization triggered by the C-N bond formation by P450 oxygenase (TleB), the prenyltransferase (TleC), and the methyltransferase (TleD). This new knowledge will benefit future engineering studies to create unnatural PKC activators.
Attachment characteristics and emotion regulation difficulties among maladaptive and normal daydreamers
Authors: Sándor Alexandra , Bugán Antal , Nagy Attila , Bogdán Lilla Stella , Molnár Judit
Published: March 2021

Maladaptive daydreaming is an excessive form of daydreaming which causes significant distress and functional impairment to the affected individuals. Research on maladaptive daydreaming has intensified in recent years, but its pathogenesis has not yet been clearly elucidated. The aim of the study was to examine the attachment characteristics and the difficulties in emotion regulation among maladaptive and normal daydreamers. 717 individuals were recruited online, 106 of whom were screened as maladaptive daydreamers. The results of the Attachment Style Questionnaire revealed a specific attachment style among maladaptive daydreamers, who were characterized by ‘Ambivalent-fearful’ attachment characteristics, while normal daydreamers showed ‘Secure-independent’ attachment style. Regarding emotion regulation difficulties, maladaptive daydreamers showed a significantly higher level of deficit on each subscale of the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale compared to normal daydreamers. The findings highlighted the potential role of early attachment experiences in the etiology and pathogenesis of maladaptive daydreaming, as well as the presence of severe emotion regulation deficits among problematic daydreamers. The results revealed by the present study might give contributions to the development of psychotherapeutical treatment of maladaptive daydreaming.
Examining the effectiveness of cognitive bias modification for perfectionism in exploration of the mediating and moderating effects of body dissatisfaction and self-efficacy
Authors: Wang Yun-Han , Wang Yun-Lin , Misener Kaylee , Libben Maya
Published: March 2021

The relationship between perfectionism, body dissatisfaction, and self-efficacy is unclear. This study attempted to distinguish the relationship between different dimensions of perfectionism and to examine how they relate to body dissatisfaction and self-efficacy. Experiment 1 examined the effectiveness of two types of Cognitive Bias Modification for Interpretation (CBM-I) techniques in the induction of perfectionism. Experiment 2 explored the mediation and moderation effects of perfectionism facets, body dissatisfaction, and self-efficacy in the induction of perfectionism. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the four CBM-I conditions and completed self-report measures of trait and state perfectionism, body dissatisfaction, self-efficacy, as well as a behavioural task that assessed perfectionistic behaviours before and after the CBM-I induction. The results indicated no significant differences in perfectionism between the experimental groups and the control groups following the perfectionism induction. Using baseline participant characteristics, body dissatisfaction was found to mediate socially-prescribed perfectionism and self-efficacy. Self-oriented perfectionism moderated the association between body dissatisfaction and self-efficacy. State perfectionism may not be influenced by a single session (30 trials) of CBM-I training. Treatment targeting body dissatisfaction may enhance self-efficacy in socially-prescribed perfectionists. Further, interventions that decrease self-oriented perfectionism may reduce body dissatisfaction while increasing self-efficacy.
Informal Workplace Learning in Swedish Police Education– A Teacher Perspective
Authors: Sjöberg David , Holmgren Robert
Published: March 2021

In the literature, informal learning is considered to be of great importance to employees’ development of workplace learning. The aim of this study, which involves respondents from a Swedish police education unit, was to contribute knowledge about Swedish police education teachers’ informal learning as regards conditions for learning, learning activities and learning experiences resulting from their engagement in these activities. The results of the study are based on daily digital logbook notes made by 25 police and university teachers during one month and subsequent interviews with these teachers. The main conclusions can be summarised as follows: 1) The culture, structure and materials of the workplace are important parts of teachers’ conditions for informal learning. 2) The teachers’ informal learning activities are characterised by intentional learning, where supporting interactions with colleagues in their own teams and other, more knowledgeable, colleagues are highly valued. Furthermore, the most common triggers for teachers’ informal learning are issues relating to pedagogy and digital technology, and face-to-face contacts with colleagues are preferred. 3) The police teachers describe their learning experiences made in the course of informal learning activities as a transition from an instructor-based to a teaching-oriented approach, while the learning of the university teachers is focused on contextualisation of their teaching by integrating academic knowledge into the police practice. The article concludes with a brief discussion about the possibilities and limitations of informal learning.
Joint Modeling of Distances and Times in Point-Count Surveys
Authors: Martin-Schwarze Adam , Niemi Jarad , Dixon Philip
Published: March 2021

Removal and distance modeling are two common methods to adjust counts for imperfect detection in point-count surveys. Several recent articles have formulated models to combine them into a distance-removal framework. We observe that these models fall into two groups building from different assumptions about the joint distribution of observed distances and first times to detection. One approach assumes the joint distribution results from a Poisson process (PP). The other assumes an independent joint (IJ) distribution with its joint density being the product of its marginal densities. We compose an IJ+PP model that more flexibly models the joint distribution and accommodates both existing approaches as special cases. The IJ+PP model matches the bias and coverage of the true model for data simulated from either PP or IJ models. In contrast, PP models underestimate abundance from IJ simulations, while IJ models overestimate abundance from PP simulations. We apply all three models to surveys of golden-crowned sparrows in Alaska. Only the IJ+PP model reasonably fits the joint distribution of observed distances and first times to detection. Model choice affects estimates of abundance and detection but has little impact on the magnitude of estimated covariate effects on availability and perceptibility.

Supplementary materials accompanying this paper appear online.
Seam Formation in Laser Beam Micro-Welding with Spatial Power Modulation
Authors: Aden Mirko , Heinen Paul , Olowinsky Alexander
Published: March 2021

When laser sources of high brilliance are used for the micro-welding of metals, small seam dimensions are generated. If the spatial power is modulated by a superposition of the linear feed rate and a circular-oscillatory movement of high frequency, the width of the seam is controlled by the amplitude of the circular movement. In this study, the irradiation pattern of the seam was calculated and reveals that some spots of the seam area are not irradiated, while other have been irradiated several times. The seam shapes were visualized with micro cross-sections for different laser powers, linear feed rates and oscillatory amplitudes. Thermal simulations were made to discuss the different seam shapes. A consequence of the oscillatory movement is the appearance of different solidification fronts, which are visible in the micro cross-sections.
Massive Perivillous Fibrinoid Degeneration of Placenta/ Maternal Floor Infarct: A Case Report
Authors: Panat Veena Mangesh
Published: March 2021

Placental pathology can be a cause of early severe FGR leading to perinatal morbidity and mortality with repercussions in future pregnancies. A diagnosis of a placental lesion on ultrasound should have a detailed clinical and histopathological correlation for better management in next pregnancy. We present a case report of “placental massive perivillous fibrinoid degeneration/maternal floor infarction (MPFD)” with very large avascular placenta. This can lead to fetal growth restriction (FGR) and other complications for the fetus. It is also known to be associated with antiphospholipid syndrome. Management with low dose aspirin and low molecular weight heparin achieves good results.
Sirenomelia: Can it be Missed in the First Trimester? A Case Series of A Rare Condition
Authors: Smitha D. S. , Agrawal Purvi , Suman T. P. , Makam Adinarayana V.
Published: March 2021

Sirenomelia is a very rare congenital developmental disorder of the lower extremities, and all the other derivatives from the caudal mesoderm, mainly the viscera i.e. kidneys, gonads and hindgut. In the majority of cases, it is incompatible with life in the neonatal period as it is associated with renal agenesis. The importance of detecting this anomaly in the first trimester lies in this lethality in order to offer the option of termination of pregnancy at an earlier gestation. Appropriate counselling at diagnosis is essential to give the couple a clear picture of what they might expect postnatally regarding the renal anomalies or the many surgeries which might be required for the lower limbs and viscera. We present a case series (n = 5) diagnosed by ultrasound at our center between January 2014–2020. Through this brief article, we aim to give a key to the antenatal diagnosis of this rare anomaly, an aid on how not to miss it and its subsequent management.
Normative Values of Mid Trimester Cervical Consistency Index in Women Delivering at Term
Authors: Shamjibhai Virani Harshad Kumar , Nayar Sakshi , Sharma Nidhish , Gupta Nandita Dimri , Kumar Sunita , Mansukhani Chandra , Gujral Kanwal
Published: March 2021

Aims and Objective Cervical Consistency Index (CCI) is a new technique to measure the consistency of Cervix (softening) and is expected to show changes before cervical shortening. The aim of this study was 1. To find out the normative values of mid-trimester Cervical Consistency Index in women delivering at term. 2. To compare the discriminative ability of cervical consistency index with cervical length for prediction of spontaneous preterm birth.

Method A total of 144 antenatal patients undergoing mid-trimester anomaly scan were subjected to transvaginal cervical length measurement as per Fetal Medicine Foundation criteria. Cervical consistency index was measured as defined by Para et al. The anterior–posterior diameter of cervix was measured before compression (AP) and after compression (AP') in the same sitting. Cervical consistency index (CCI) was calculated by the formula:

CCI = APⅹ/AP × 100;

The result of CCI was not used in the clinical management of the patient. Women who delivered at 37 weeks and beyond were included to form the normative data. An attempt was made to study the ability of mid-trimester cervical consistency index to predict spontaneous preterm birth as compared to cervical length (CL).

Results Range of CCI in our study was 41–100% and that of CL was 2–4 cm.Based on values of CCI and CL an ROC curve was made, AUC measured for CCI was 0.923 and for CL was 0.849. The cut off determined for CCI was 64.5%, above which all women delivered at ≥ 37 weeks. Only Two women who delivered preterm (< 37) weeks had a CCI of less than 64.5% (64 and 47%), but cervical length was greater than 2.5 cms in both of them. The Sensitivity, Specificity, Positive Predictive Value, Negative Predictive Value and accuracy of CCI for predicting term delivery at a cutoff of 64.5% in our study was 83.8%, 100%, 100%, 8% and 93.8% respectively, whereas the corresponding figures for predicting preterm delivery were 100%, 83.8%, 8%, 100% and 93.8%. Discriminative ability of CCI in comparison to CL could not be determined because only two women delivered preterm in our study.

Conclusion This was a pilot study to form the normative values of CCI for women delivering at term. At a cutoff value of 64.5% or more all women delivered at term. Two women who delivered preterm had a CCI of less than 64.5%. Further large studies are required before CCI can be incorporated as a routine to assess the antenatal cervix.
Stochastic resonance in periodically driven bistable systems subjected to anomalous diffusion
Authors: Nzoupe F. Naha , Dikandé Alain M.
Published: March 2021

The occurrence of stochastic resonance in bistable systems undergoing anomalous diffusions, which arise from density-dependent fluctuations, is investigated with an emphasis on the analytical formulation of the problem as well as a possible analytical derivation of key quantifiers of stochastic resonance. The nonlinear Fokker–Planck equation describing the system dynamics, together with the corresponding Ito–Langevin equation, is formulated. In the linear response regime, analytical expressions of the spectral amplification, of the signal-to-noise ratio and of the hysteresis loop area are derived as quantifiers of stochastic resonance. These quantifiers are found to be strongly dependent on the parameters controlling the type of diffusion; in particular, the peak characterizing the signal-to-noise ratio occurs only in close ranges of parameters. Results introduce the relevant information that, taking into consideration the interactions of anomalous diffusive systems with a periodic signal, can provide a better understanding of the physics of stochastic resonance in bistable systems driven by periodic forces.
An improved chacha algorithm for securing data on IoT devices
Authors: Mahdi Mohammed Salih , Hassan Nidaa Falih , Abdul-Majeed Ghassan H.
Published: March 2021

In recent years, revolution of development was exceedingly quick in the Internet. Nevertheless, instead of only linking personal computers, mobiles and wearable equipment's, Internet growths from a web binding to true world physical substances that is indicated to novel connotation, which is labeled as Internet of Things (IoT). This concept is utilized in many scopes like education, health care, agriculture and commerce. IoT devices are presented with batteries to have independence from electric current; consequently, their working time is specified by the total time of the power of these batteries. In many IoT applications, data of IoT devices are extremely critical and should be encrypted. Current encryption approaches are created with a high complexity of an arithmetical process to provide a high level of security. However, these arithmetical processes lead to troubles concerning the efficiency and power consumption. ChaCha cipher is one of these approaches, which recently attracted attention due to its deployment in several applications by Google. In the present study, a new stream cipher procedure is proposed (called Super ChaCha), which performs low duty cycles for securing data on IoT devices. The proposed algorithm represents an improved revision to the standard ChaCha algorithm by increasing resistance to cryptanalysis. The modification focuses on rotation procedure which has been changed from a fixed constant to a variable constant based on random value. Also, the inputs of the cipher are changing in the columns form followed by diagonals form to zigzag form and then by alternate form to provide improved diffusion in comparison with the standard ChaCha. Results regarding the security illustrate that Super ChaCha needs 2512 probable keys to break by brute-force attack. Furthermore, the randomness of Super ChaCha successfully passed the five benchmark and NIST test.
Iron ore filtration process improvement through pH modification
Authors: Andrade Alexandre Gonçalves , Athayde Maycon
Published: March 2021

The present study presents the effect of pH reduction in iron ore slurry for an iron ore filtration process. A reduction on moisture content and increase on filters throughput was proposed by the pH modification. The experimental procedure included bench scale tests and industrial scale up of the observed results. Additionally, Langelier’s saturation index was applied to determine the optimum pH range for the filtration operation. The calcium carbonate deposition test was developed and evaluated in the present study. A comprehensive evaluation at different pH ranges was performed leading to identify the calcium carbonate deposition critical point.
Medium Cut-Off Membrane Can Be a New Treatment Tool in Amanita phalloides Poisoning
Authors: Huddam Bülent , Alp Alper , Kırlı İsmail , Yılmaz Mehmet , Çağırtekin Aytuğ , Allı Hakan , Edebali Sultan
Published: March 2021

Mushroom poisoning is a common health problem that can be seen seasonally and geographically. Most mushroom poisoning requiring treatment worldwide is due to Amanita phalloides. Although liver failure and kidney injury are frequent, poisoning can also lead to more serious clinical situations, such as shock, pancreatitis, encephalopathic coma, cardiac failure, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, and may cause death. In addition, when standard treatment approaches fail, extracorporeal treatment methods are often used. We report 2 cases in which hemodialysis with medium cut-off membrane was performed. We observed an improvement in liver and kidney function in both of our cases. The first case recovered, but the second case proved fatal owing to Acinetobacter sepsis, despite an improvement in renal function. Medium cut-off membrane hemodialysis may be an alternative option in the treatment of Amanita phalloides poisoning.
SCHA.DIF.4k: 4,000 Years of Paleomagnetic Reconstruction for Europe and Its Application for Dating
Authors: Pavón‐Carrasco F. Javier , Campuzano Saioa A. , Rivero‐Montero Mercedes , Molina‐Cardín Alberto , Gómez‐Paccard Miriam , Osete M. Luisa
Published: March 2021

Since the publication of the European archaeomagnetic field model SCHA.DIF.3k in 2009, the number of paleomagnetic data derived from archaeological materials such as baked clays and volcanic rocks coming from Europe has increased by about 90% for directions and around 180% for intensities. Taking advantage of this increase, here we provide an updated regional archaeomagnetic model, called SCHA.DIF.4k, for the European continent and adjacent areas and now covering the last four millennia. To model the three geomagnetic elements, declination, inclination, and intensity, we use the regional R‐SCHA2D technique in space and temporal basis of cubic splines. A critical selection of the archaeomagnetic and volcanic data available in a spherical cap of 30° centered at 40°N latitude and 10°E longitude has been considered. In addition, in order to better constrain the behavior of the archaeomagnetic field during the last centuries, we include the historical data of the HISTMAG compilation. The new regional model allows us to better define the paleomagnetic field over Europe as well as to generate new paleosecular variation curves for archaeomagnetic dating purposes. Using these curves, the dating precision has been estimated for the last 4 kyr. As expected, results show that it strongly depends on the data uncertainties, the temporal data distribution and the behavior of the geomagnetic field itself. In addition, the use of the full vector geomagnetic field, instead of the directional information exclusively, provides more precise archaeomagnetic dating results.