bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating koala density from incidental koala sightings in South‐East Queensland, Australia (1997–2013), using a self‐exciting spatio‐temporal point process model
Authors: Dissanayake Ravi Bandara , Giorgi Emanuele , Stevenson Mark , Allavena Rachel , Henning Joerg
Published: September 2021

The koala, Phascolarctos cinereus, is an iconic Australian wildlife species facing a rapid decline in South‐East Queensland (SEQLD). For conservation planning, the ability to estimate the size of koala populations is crucial. Systematic surveys are the most common approach to estimate koala populations but because of their cost they are often restricted to small geographic areas and are conducted infrequently. Public interest and participation in the collection of koala sighting data is increasing in popularity, but such data are generally not used for population estimation. We modeled monthly sightings of koalas reported by members of the public from 1997 to 2013 in SEQLD by developing a self‐exciting spatio‐temporal point process model. This allowed us to account for characteristics that are associated with koala presence (which vary over both space and time) while accounting for detection bias in the koala sighting process and addressing spatial clustering of observations. The density of koalas varied spatially due to the heterogeneous nature of koala habitat in SEQLD, with a mean density of 0.0019 koalas per km2 over the study period. The percentage of land areas with very low densities (0–0.0005 koalas per km2) remained similar throughout the study period representing, on average, 66% of the total study area. The approach described in this paper provides a useful starting point to allow greater use to be made of incidental koala sighting data. We propose that the model presented here could be used to combine systematic koala survey data (which is spatially restricted, but more precise) with koala sighting data (which is incidental and often biased by nature, but often collected over large geographical areas). Our approach could also be adopted for modeling the density of other wildlife species where data is collected in the same manner.
Shifts and plasticity of plant leaf mass per area and leaf size among slope aspects in a subalpine meadow
Authors: Li Xin’e , Song Xiaoyu , Zhao Jun , Lu Haifeng , Qian Cheng , Zhao Xin
Published: September 2021

The composition of vegetation on a slope frequently changes substantially owing to the different micro‐environments of various slope aspects. To understand how the slope aspect affects the vegetation changes, we examined the variations in leaf mass per area (LMA) and leaf size (LS) within and among populations for 66 species from 14 plots with a variety of slope aspects in a subalpine meadow. LMA is a leaf economic trait that is tightly correlated with plant physiological traits, while the LS shows a tight correlation with leaf temperature, indicating the strategy of plants to self‐adjust in different thermal and hydraulic conditions. In this study, we compared the two leaf traits between slope aspects and between functional types and explored their correlation with soil variables and heat load. Our results showed that high‐LMA, small‐leaved species were favored in south‐facing slopes, while the reverse was true in north‐facing areas. In detail, small dense‐leaved graminoids dominated the south slopes, while large thin‐leaved forbs dominated the north slopes. Soil moisture and the availability of soil P were the two most important soil factors that related to both LMA and LS, and heat load also contributed substantially. Moreover, we disentangled the relative importance of intraspecific trait variation and species turnover in the trait variation among plots and found that the intraspecific variation contributed 98% and 56% to LMA and LS variation among communities, respectively, implying a large contribution of intraspecific trait plasticity. These results indicate that LMA and LS are two essential leaf traits that affect the adaptation or acclimation of plants underlying the vegetation composition changes in different slope aspects in the subalpine meadow.
A Modulation QCM Applied to Copper Electrodeposition and Stripping
Authors: Leppin Christian , Langhoff Arne , Höfft Oliver , Johannsmann Diethelm
Published: September 2021

A fast electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (EQCM−D) was applied to copper electrodeposition and subsequent stripping. Accumulation brings the frequency noise down to the mHz range, corresponding to 0.1 % of a monolayer. With this precision, the apparent mass transfer rate as determined from the time‐derivative of the frequency shift can be directly compared to the current. Small but systematic deviations between the two can be attributed to nanoscale roughness. In the voltage range of underpotential deposition (UPD), the apparent mass transfer rate shows peaks and shoulders. The plating additive benzotriazole (BTA) leaves the magnitude of electrogravimetric signals unchanged, but shifts the UPD onset potential. The additive thiourea (TU) promotes UPD and strongly increases the bandwidth.
Removal of dissolved sulfides from synthetic and industrial solutions by activated carbon derived from Tunisian olive stone
Authors: Lagha Arwa , Ouederni Abdelmottaleb , Ben Abdallah Hédi
Published: September 2021

The present work aimed at evaluating the performance of activated carbons (AC) derived from Tunisian olive stone in the removal of dissolved sulfides from synthetic and industrial solutions. The ACs were produced by physical (CAP) and chemical (CAC) activations and characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption, scanning electron microscope/X‐ray dispersive energy analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, and Boehm titration. The ACs dispose of well‐developed specific surface area (1100–730 m2/g) with dispersed oxygen surface groups. Batch adsorption test performed by synthetic sulfides solutions reveals significant adsorption capacities. The kinetic data were modeled using the pseudo‐first order, the pseudo‐second order, the intra‐particle diffusion, as well as the Boyd model. The results prove that sulfides adsorption is described by the pseudo‐second order equation. Moreover, the sulfides adsorption mechanism follows the intra‐particle diffusion and the external diffusion. The adsorption equilibrium data were modeled by Freundlich, Langmuir, Temkin, and D‐R models. The equilibrium data fitted the Langmuir model with monolayer adsorption capacities of 20.83 mg/g for CAP and 22.72 mg/g for CAC. In the dynamic test, the sulfides adsorption by ACs from industrial spent caustic solutions decreased to 2.81 and 7.32 mg of sulfides/g of CAC and CAP. Therefore, the adsorption process is not a promising treatment method for sulfides removal from the phosphoric acid plant wastewater.
Closed‐form lower bounds for the price of arithmetic average Asian options by multiple conditioning
Authors: Choe Geon Ho , Kim Minseok
Published: September 2021

We present closed‐form lower bounds for the price of arithmetic average Asian options under geometric Brownian motion. Lower bounds are found by conditioning on multiple normal variables, each of which is a weighted sum of Brownian motions. Numerical results show that our lower bounds are close to Monte Carlo prices and improve single conditioning methods especially for high volatility and long maturity.
Redefining varicose projection astrocytes in primates
Authors: Falcone Carmen , McBride Erin L. , Hopkins William D. , Hof Patrick R. , Manger Paul R. , Sherwood Chet C. , Noctor Stephen C. , Martínez‐Cerdeño Verónica
Published: September 2021

Varicose projection astrocytes (VP‐As) are found in the cerebral cortex and have been described to be specific to humans and chimpanzees. To further examine the phylogenetic distribution of this cell type, we analyzed cortical tissue from several primates ranging from primitive primates to primates evolutionary closer to human such as apes. We specifically analyzed tissue from four strepsirrhine species, one tarsier, six species of platyrrhine monkeys, ten species of cercopithecoid monkeys, two hylobatid ape species, four to six cases each of chimpanzee, bonobo, gorilla, and orangutan, and thirteen human. We found that VP‐As were present only in human and other apes (hominoids) and were absent in all other species. We showed that VP‐As are localized to layer VI and the superficial white matter of the cortex. The presence of VP‐As co‐occured with interlaminar astrocytes that also had varicosities in their processes. Due to their location, their long tangential processes, and their irregular presence within species, we propose that VP‐As are astrocytes that develop varicosities under specific conditions and that are not a distinct astrocyte type.
Relationship between sound perception and acoustics of seat‐belt warning sound
Authors: Qi Tong , Yang Jinrong
Published: September 2021

Understanding the comprehensive sound perceptions is a major challenge in translating the affective needs and responses of drivers and passengers into the human‐centered design of seat‐belt warning sound (SBWS). Due to the various sound impressions of SBWS, sound quality has multiple impacts on driving safety, pleasure, stress, and so forth. This paper aims to derive a specified psychological factor structure for the sound perceptions of SBWS and to rebuild the connections between the psychological and acoustic attributes. Kansei (emotional or affective) evaluation is employed to collect the affective responses to 20 sound stimuli from 10 experts and 134 other participants. The perceived sound quality is expressed by 11 psychological attributes: “cheerful,” “interesting,” “lovely,” “comfortable,” “nervous,” “cordial,” “advanced,” “crisp,” “nostalgic,” “aroused,” and “weak.” Russell's emotional state model is also employed to map the sounds into a Pleasure–Arousal Kansei space for further analysis. For acoustic attributes, we measure amplitude, frequency, pause ratio, repetition speed, and element number, which are easy to be tuned according to the design guidelines listed as follows: First, a decrease in sound frequency results in sleepiness perception (less perceived urgency); second, fewer element (peak) number per cycle results in displeasure perception (less satisfaction); third, lower repetition speed results in pleasure and sleepiness perceptions simultaneously. The multiple linear regression model further indicates the quantitative psychoacoustic relationships, which helps sound designers to identify the key acoustic attributes and predict the affective responses for the human‐centered design of SBWS.
Macrophage migration inhibitory factor gene polymorphisms (SNP ‐173 G>C and STR‐794 CATT5‐8) confer risk of plaque psoriasis: A case–control study
Authors: Hernández‐Bello Jorge , Rodríguez‐Puente Miroslaba , Gutiérrez‐Cuevas Jorge , García‐Arellano Samuel , Muñoz‐Valle José Francisco , Fafutis‐Morris Mary , Villanueva‐Quintero Delfina Guadalupe , Alvarado‐Navarro Anabell
Published: September 2021

Background

Macrophage inhibitory factor (MIF) is a pro‐inflammatory cytokine secreted by several cells, including those in the immune system and the skin. TheMIFgene contains the SNP ‐173 G> C and STR ‐794 CATT5‐8polymorphisms in the promoter region capable of affecting its activity. Our objective was to investigate theMIFpolymorphisms as a risk factor for plaque psoriasis (PP) in the Mexican population.

Methods

We genotyped bothMIFpolymorphism (rs5844572 and rs755622) in 224 PP patients with a clinical and histopathological diagnosis and 232 control subjects (CS) by the PCR‐RFLP method. MIF serum levels were determined by an ELISA kit.

Results

We found significant differences in the genotypic and allelic frequencies for theMIF‐173 G>C polymorphism; carriers of the GC genotype (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.026–2.228,p = 0.03) and the C allele (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.005–1.807,p = 0.04) had higher odds to present with PP. Moreover, the 6C haplotype was associated with PP risk (OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.22–3.69,p < 0.01). Also, the ‐173 CC genotype was associated with high MIF serum levels (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The ‐173 GC genotype and the 6C haplotype of theMIFpolymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to PP in the Mexican population.
The unmet needs for identifying the ideal bowel preparation
Authors: Tontini Gian E , Prada Alberto , Sferrazza Sandro , Ciprandi Giorgio , Vecchi Maurizio
Published: September 2021

Colonoscopy, since it was first employed over 60 years ago, is now the gold standard method for visualizing the mucosa of the colon, but should be of good quality. Many factors affect quality, including the type of health service organization, type of facility, staff, equipment, patient characteristics, and bowel preparation (BP). The adequacy of bowel cleansing is critical, but, unfortunately, may be inadequate in up to one‐third of procedures. The current article will present and discuss the main BPs and their drawbacks, which include patient‐dependent and procedure‐dependent factors. Cleansing quality depends on the ease/complexity of solution preparation, volume, taste, and timing of consumption. Consequently, important positive factors include simple instructions, easy preparation of the solution, low volume, pleasant taste, short drinking time (e.g. <30 min), and splitting the dose between the evening before and the morning of the colonoscopy (or even better, only one dose in the early morning to avoid night‐time problems), and short onset of action. The BP solution must also be safe with negligible side effects. Furthermore, a positive experience supports patient willingness to repeat the procedure.
Angiography‐guided mid/high septal implantation of ventricular leads in patients with congenital heart disease
Authors: Shenthar Jayaprakash , Valappil Sanjai P. , Rai Maneesh K. , Banavalikar Bharatraj , Padmanabhan Deepak , Delhaas Tammo
Published: September 2021

Background

Conduction system pacing prevents pacing‐induced cardiomyopathy, but it can be challenging to perform in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD), and mid/high septal lead implantation is an alternative. This study aimed to assess intraprocedural angiography's utility as a guide for mid/high‐septal lead implantation in CHD patients.

Methods

The study subjects were CHD patients with Class I/IIa indications for permanent pacemaker implantation. To guide septal lead implantation, we performed an intraprocedural right ventricular angiogram in anteroposterior, 40° left anterior oblique, and 30° right anterior oblique. The primary endpoint was the lead tip in the mid/high septum on computed tomography (CT). The secondary endpoints were complications and systemic ventricular function on follow‐up.

Results

From January 2008 to December 2018, we enrolled 27 patients (mean age: 30 ± 20 years; M:F 17:10) with CHD (unoperated: 20, operated: 7). The mean paced QRS duration was 131.7 ± 5.8 ms, and CT done in 22/27 patients confirmed the lead tip in the mid‐septum in 16, high septum in 5, and apical septum in 1 patient. There were no procedural complications, and during a mean follow‐up of 58 ± 35.2 months, there was no significant change in the systemic ventricular ejection fraction (56.4 ± 8.3% vs 53.9 + 5.9%, P = .08). Two patients with Eisenmenger syndrome died because of refractory heart failure.

Conclusions

Intraprocedural angiography is safe and useful to guide mid/high‐septal lead implantation in CHD patients. Mid/high septal lead position preserves systemic ventricular function in patients with CHD during medium‐term follow‐up.
Shear strain and inflammation‐induced fixed charge density loss in the knee joint cartilage following ACL injury and reconstruction: A computational study
Authors: Orozco Gustavo A. , Eskelinen Atte S. A. , Kosonen Joonas P. , Tanaka Matthew S. , Yang Mingrui , Link Thomas M. , Ma Benjamin , Li Xiaojuan , Grodzinsky Alan J. , Korhonen Rami K. , Tanska Petri
Published: September 2021

Excessive tissue deformation near cartilage lesions and acute inflammation within the knee joint after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture and reconstruction surgery accelerate the loss of fixed charge density (FCD) and subsequent cartilage tissue degeneration. Here, we show how biomechanical and biochemical degradation pathways can predict FCD loss using a patient‐specific finite element model of an ACL reconstructed knee joint exhibiting a chondral lesion. Biomechanical degradation was based on the excessive maximum shear strains that may result in cell apoptosis, while biochemical degradation was driven by the diffusion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. We found that the biomechanical model was able to predict substantial localized FCD loss near the lesion and on the medial areas of the lateral tibial cartilage. In turn, the biochemical model predicted FCD loss all around the lesion and at intact areas; the highest FCD loss was at the cartilage–synovial fluid‐interface and decreased toward the deeper zones. Interestingly, simulating a downturn of an acute inflammatory response by reducing the cytokine concentration exponentially over time in synovial fluid led to a partial recovery of FCD content in the cartilage. Our novel numerical approach suggests that in vivo FCD loss can be estimated in injured cartilage following ACL injury and reconstruction. Our novel modeling platform can benefit the prediction of PTOA progression and the development of treatment interventions such as disease‐modifying drug testing and rehabilitation strategies.
2‐Arachidonoyl glycerol potently induces cholecystokinin secretion in murine enteroendocrine STC‐1 cells via cannabinoid receptor CB1
Authors: Ochiai Keita , Hirooka Rina , Sakaino Masayoshi , Takeuchi Shigeo , Hira Tohru
Published: September 2021

Cholecystokinin (CCK) is a peptide hormone secreted from enteroendocrine cells and regulates the exocrine pancreas, gastric motility, and appetite. Dietary triacylglycerols are hydrolyzed to fatty acids (FA) and 2‐monoacylglycerols (2‐MAG) in the small intestine. Although it is well known that FA stimulate CCK secretion, whether 2‐MAG have the CCK‐releasing activity remains unclear. We examined the CCK‐releasing activity of four commercially available 2‐MAG in a murine CCK‐producing cell line, STC‐1, and the molecular mechanism underlying 2‐MAG‐induced CCK secretion. CCK released from the cells was measured using ELISA. Among four 2‐MAG (2‐palmitoyl, 2‐oleoyl, 2‐linoleoyl, and 2‐arachidonoyl monoacylglycerols) examined, 2‐arachidonoyl glycerol (2‐AG) potently stimulated CCK secretion in a dose‐dependent manner. Structurally related compounds, such as 2‐arachidonoyl glycerol ether and 1‐arachidonoyl glycerol, did not stimulate CCK secretion. Both arachidonic acid and 2‐AG stimulated CCK secretion at 100 μM, but only 2‐AG did at 50 μM. 2‐AG‐induced CCK secretion but not arachidonic acid‐induced CCK secretion was attenuated by treatment with a cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) antagonist. These results indicate that a specific 2‐MAG, 2‐AG, directly stimulates CCK secretion via CB1.
A review on potentials and challenges of nanolubricants as promising lubricants for electric vehicles
Authors: Ahmed Abdalglil Mustafa Waleed , Dassenoy Fabrice , Sarno Maria , Senatore Adolfo
Published: September 2021

The most remarkable difference between electric vehicles (EVs) and conventional ones is the fuel burning dependency of the internal combustion engine, while the emerging EVs operate on electric motors. These alternations create staggering shifts in both lubricants' market demand and performance specifications. Lubricants for electrical powertrain constitutes greases, transmission oils, and lubricants for auxiliary systems and do not rely on engine oils as internal combustion vehicles. The new standards will be more focused on lubricants' electrical properties such as breakage voltage and conductivity, coupled with tribological performance under high rpm, corrosion resistance and thermal management benchmarks. This paper thematically reviews the different studies performed with nanolubricants, and how they match EVs' operational requirements. Conclusions from this study can be considered as guidelines for the potential application of nanolubricants in EVs and possible future research that can be accomplished on the topic.
Photo‐Curing Vis‐IR Hybrid Fresnel Lenses with High Refractive Index
Authors: Qiu Yang , Li Jin , Li Tiantian , Ma Xiaodong , Jiang Xuesong
Published: September 2021

Conventional IR lenses, typically refractive lenses, composed of inorganic semiconductors or chalcogenide glasses, are usually bulky, heavy, and difficult processable. Here, a one‐step photo‐curing imprinting strategy is presented to fabricate lightweight, compact, and high refractive index (HRI) hybrid Fresnel lenses for optical devices based on thiol‐ene/‐yne reactions. The hybrid Fresnel lenses consist of two layers: the silicon/quartz as the support substrate and HRI polymer films as functional layer which are synthesized by thiol‐ene/‐yne reactions with high sulfur‐content comonomers 2,3‐bis((2‐mercaptoethyl)thio)‐1‐propanethiol (BMETP) and its derivatives. The as‐prepared photopolymer films exhibit excellent transparency properties and HRI above 1.62 both in the visible and infrared regions, resulting from the large ratio of sulfur element with high molar refraction. A series of images captured by vis‐IR hybrid Fresnel lenses are demonstrated to confirm the applicability in the area of the optical imaging technique. This strategy, based on the one‐step photo‐curing imprinting, integrating the advantages of the easy processability of organic polymers and high dimensional stability of the inorganic substrate materials, provides a facile, processable, and highly efficient process for fabricating lightweight optical lenses.
Electrospun Nanofibers: Materials, Synthesis Parameters, and Their Role in Sensing Applications
Authors: Kailasa Saraswathi , Reddy M. Sai Bhargava , Maurya Muni Raj , Rani B. Geeta , Rao K. Venkateswara , Sadasivuni Kishor Kumar
Published: September 2021

Since the last decade, electrospinning is garnering more attention in the scientific research community, industries, applications like sensing (glucose, H2O2, dopamine, ascorbic acid, uric acid, neurotransmitter, etc.), biomedical applications (wound dressing, wound healing, skin, nerve, bone tissue engineering, and drug delivery systems), water treatment, energy harvesting, and storage applications. This review paper provides a brief overview of the electrospinning method, history of the electrospinning, factors affecting the electrospun nanofibers, and their morphology with different materials and composites (metals, metal oxides, 2D material, polymers and copolymers, carbon‐based materials, etc.) used in the electrospinning technique with optical spinning parameters. Moreover, this paper deliberates the application of electrospun nanofibers and fibrous mats for sensing (electrochemical, optical, fluorescence, colorimetric, mechanical, photoelectric, mass sensitive change, resistive, ultrasensitive, etc.) in most illustrative representations. In the end, the challenges, opportunities of the electrospun nanofibers, and new direction for future progress are also discussed.
High‐Performance Carbon Fibers Prepared by Continuous Stabilization and Carbonization of Electron Beam‐Irradiated Textile Grade Polyacrylonitrile Fibers
Authors: König Simon , Bauch Volker , Herbert Christian , Wego Andreas , Steinmann Mark , Frank Erik , Buchmeiser Michael R.
Published: September 2021

The manufacturing of high‐performance carbon fibers (CFs) from low‐cost textile grade poly(acrylonitrile) (PAN) homo‐ and copolymers using continuous electron beam (EB) irradiation, stabilization, and carbonization on a kilogram scale is reported. The resulting CFs have tensile strengths of up to 3.1 ± 0.6 GPa and Young's moduli of up to 212 ± 9 GPa, exceeding standard grade CFs such as Toray T300. Additionally, the Weibull strength and modulus, the microstructure, and the morphology of these CFs are determined.
Pharmacologic approaches to amino acid depletion for cancer therapy
Authors: Wilder Carly S. , Chen Zhao , DiGiovanni John
Published: September 2021

Cancer cells undergo metabolic reprogramming to support increased demands in bioenergetics and biosynthesis and to maintain reactive oxygen species at optimum levels. As metabolic alterations are broadly observed across many cancer types, metabolic reprogramming is considered a hallmark of cancer. A metabolic alteration commonly seen in cancer cells is an increased demand for certain amino acids. Amino acids are involved in a wide range of cellular functions, including proliferation, redox balance, bioenergetic and biosynthesis support, and homeostatic functions. Thus, targeting amino acid dependency in cancer is an attractive strategy for a number of cancers. In particular, pharmacologically mediated amino acid depletion has been evaluated as a cancer treatment option for several cancers. Amino acids that have been investigated for the feasibility of drug‐induced depletion in preclinical and clinical studies for cancer treatment include arginine, asparagine, cysteine, glutamine, lysine, and methionine. In this review, we will summarize the status of current research on pharmacologically mediated amino acid depletion as a strategy for cancer treatment and potential chemotherapeutic combinations that synergize with amino acid depletion to further inhibit tumor growth and progression.
Management practices of firms: A study in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta
Authors: Kiet Nguyen Tuan , Chi Ho Huu Phuong , Duc Trinh Cong
Published: September 2021

There is much evidence that good management practice is an important factor that positively affects firms' productivity around the world. However, little evidence on effect of management practices on Vietnamese firms has been drawn. This paper provides results of such a study. The quality of management activities is found to be poor and be positively related to the turnovers of firms, the ages of firms, the numbers of employees, investment capital, and human capital. Also, management practice scores change significantly according to the influencing factors including level of competition, degree of decentralization, types of ownership, types of customer firms are serving, advancement of export market, and types of product firms are selling.
Effectiveness of a Gamification Strategy to Prevent Childhood Obesity in Schools: A Cluster Controlled Trial
Authors: Peña Sebastián , Carranza Macarena , Cuadrado Cristóbal , Parra Diana C. , Villalobos Dintrans Pablo , Castillo Cecilia , Cortinez‐O’Ryan Andrea , Espinoza Paula , Müller Valeska , Rivera Cristián , Genovesi Romina , Riesco Juan , Kontto Jukka , Cerda Ricardo , Zitko Pedro
Published: September 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a school‐based gamification strategy to prevent childhood obesity.

Methods

Schools were randomized in Santiago, Chile, between March and May 2018 to control or to receive a nutrition and physical activity intervention using a gamification strategy (i.e., the use of points, levels, and rewards) to achieve healthy challenges. The intervention was delivered for 7 months and participants were assessed at 4 and 7 months. Primary outcomes were mean difference in BMI z score and waist circumference (WC) between trial arms at 7 months. Secondary outcomes were mean difference in BMI and systolic and diastolic blood pressure between trial arms at 7 months. 

Results

A total of 24 schools (5 controls) and 2,197 students (653 controls) were analyzed. Mean BMI z score was lower in the intervention arm compared with control (adjusted mean difference −0.133, 95% CI: −0.25 to −0.01), whereas no evidence of reduction in WC was found. Mean BMI and systolic blood pressure were lower in the intervention arm compared with control. No evidence of reduction in diastolic blood pressure was found.

Conclusions

The multicomponent intervention was effective in preventing obesity but not in reducing WC. Gamification is a potentially powerful tool to increase the effectiveness of school‐based interventions to prevent obesity.
Enhanced thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of polymeric composites through formation of covalent bonds between boron nitride and rubber chains
Authors: Yang Dan , Wei Qungui , Yu Liyuan , Zhao Chengwang , Zhang Liqun
Published: September 2021

Hexagonal boron nitride (BN) platelets, also known as white graphite, are often used to improve the thermal conductivities of polymeric matrices. Due to the poor interfacial compatibility between BN platelets and polymeric matrices, in this study, polyrhodanine (PRd) was used to modify BN platelets and prepared functionalized BN‐PRd platelets, thereby enhancing the interfacial interaction between the thermal conductive filler and polymeric matrix. Then, BN‐PRd platelets were dispersed into the nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) matrix to yield high thermally conductive composites. The presence of NC═S groups in PRd allowed the combination of PRd and NBR chains containing stable covalent bonds via vulcanization reaction. The thermal conductivity of the as‐prepared 30 vol% BN‐PRd/NBR composite reached 0.40 W/mK, representing an increment of 135% over pure NBR (0.17 W/mK). In addition, the largest tensile strength of NBR composite containing 30 vol% BN‐PRd platelets was 880% times of pure NBR. The 30 vol% BN‐PRd/NBR composite also displayed a relatively high dielectric constant (9.35 at 100 Hz) and a low dielectric loss tangent value (0.07 at 100 Hz), indicating their usefulness as dielectric flexible materials of microelectronics. In sum, the simplicity and good efficiency of formation of covalent bonds between boron nitride and rubber chains look very promising for large‐scale industrial production of high thermally conductive composites.
Association of coccygodynia with pelvic floor symptoms in women with pelvic pain
Authors: Neville Cynthia E. , Carrubba Aakriti R. , Li Zhuo , Ma Yaohua , Chen Anita H.
Published: September 2021

Background

Coccygodynia is a painful condition of the tailbone that occurs more commonly in females. The association of coccyx pain with pelvic floor symptoms and the prevalence of coccyx pain in women with pelvic pain has not previously been reported.

Objective

To identify the prevalence of coccygodynia in women with pelvic pain and to describe the association of coccygodynia with pelvic floor examination findings and symptoms.

Design

Retrospective cohort analysis.

Setting

Tertiary medical institution.

Participants

One hundred twenty‐seven women presenting for outpatient pelvic floor physical therapy treatment who underwent vaginal and rectal pelvic floor examination.

Main Outcome Measures

Prevalence of coccygodynia, pain scores, association of coccygodynia with other comorbidities and diagnoses, and association of coccygodynia with physical examination findings.

Results

Sixty‐three (49.6%) of 127 women with pelvic pain presented with coccygodynia and 64 (50.4%) did not. Women with coccygodynia had significantly higher rates of muscle spasm (50.8% vs. 31.2%, p = .025) higher visual analog scale pain scores (median 5 vs. 3, p = .014), higher rates of outlet dysfunction constipation (31.7% vs. 10.0%, p = .032), and higher rates of fibromyalgia (15.9% vs. 3.1%, p = .014). On pelvic examination, women with coccygodynia were significantly more likely to have sacrococcygeal joint hypomobility (65.1% vs. 14.1%, p < .001), coccygeus muscle spasm (77.8% vs. 17.2%, p < .001), anococcygeal ligament pain (63.5% vs. 9.4%, p < .001), external anal sphincter pain/spasm (33.3% vs. 13.1%, p < .001), and impaired pelvic floor muscle coordination (77.8% vs. 57.8%, p = .016).

Conclusions

Almost 50% of women seeking pelvic floor physical therapy for pelvic pain had coexisting coccygodynia. These women had higher pain scores, increased pelvic floor dysfunction, and significantly greater abnormal physical exam findings. This study demonstrates a strong link between coccygodynia, pelvic floor symptoms, and pelvic pain and highlights the importance of screening for and identifying coccyx pain when evaluating women with pelvic pain.
Health care provider views on the magnitude of overweight/obesity in spinal cord injury and awareness of evidence‐based guidance for weight management
Authors: LaVela Sherri L. , Burkhart Elizabeth , Jones Kayla , Pellegrini Christine
Published: September 2021

Abstract

Background

Literature shows that large proportions of people with a spinal cord injury (SCI) continue to experience challenges and limitations in weight management (WM) efforts in the health care setting. Despite the need, evidence‐based research on effective and practical WM practices for persons with SCI is inconsistent and not widely used by health care providers (HCPs).

Objective

The objectives were twofold: (1) to explore HCP perspectives of the extent of the problem of overweight/obesity in individuals with SCI and (2) HCPs awareness of and beliefs about availability of literature or evidence‐based guidelines that discuss WM in SCI.

Design

Qualitative study using semistructured interviews with HCPs and thematic analysis to identify themes.

Participants/Setting

SCI HCPs (n = 25) from Veterans Health Administration and Midwest Regional SCI Care System.

Intervention

Not applicable.

Results

SCI HCPs (88%) emphasized the large scope of the problem of overweight and obesity in persons with SCI. HCPs noted the multiple associated negative consequences, specifically 84% highlighted the impact on chronic conditions (cardiometabolic, respiratory) and 48% discussed the impact on secondary/associated conditions (skin, bowel, bladder, musculoskeletal). HCPs noted other impacts of excess weight as greater disability in later life (28%), challenges with mobility and function (60%), self‐care (24%), and equipment safety (28%). This sample of HCPs (76%) indicated being unaware of published or available information about WM efforts that work in SCI populations.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that HCPs believe that overweight and obesity is a significant problem in persons with SCI but that this sample of HCPs are not aware of published work and easily accessible SCI‐specific WM evidence‐based guidance. This suggests the need for more education and proactive efforts to improve awareness of appropriate information within interprofessional HCPs.
Current status and prospects of herbicide‐resistant grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)
Authors: Pandian Balaji A , Sexton‐Bowser Sarah , Prasad PV Vara , Jugulam Mithila
Published: September 2021

Grain sorghum is a versatile crop, which can thrive under limited water and other inputs. However, crop loss from weed infestation continues to be a major constraint in grain sorghum production. Particularly, post‐emergence grass weed control is a great challenge in grain sorghum due to the lack of herbicide options. Unlike in other major crops, such as maize or soybean, herbicide‐resistant sorghum technology that can facilitate weed control throughout crop growing season is not available to growers yet. The development of herbicide‐resistant sorghum can have potential to improve weed management, including post‐emergence grass weed control. One of the major concerns in the development of such technology in sorghum is escape of resistance traits into weedy relatives of sorghum (e.g. shattercane and johnsongrass). This review focuses on sources of herbicide resistance in sorghum, the status of the development of herbicide‐resistant sorghum technologies, overview of breeding methods, and limitations in the development of such sorghum technology as well as economic benefits for sorghum growers. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Dual protection: A tydeoid mite effectively controls both a problem pest and a key pathogen in tomato
Authors: Pijnakker Juliette , Moerkens Rob , Vangansbeke Dominiek , Duarte Marcus , Bellinkx Stijn , Benavente Alfredo , Merckx Jonas , Stevens Ian , Wäckers Felix
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND

The tomato russet mite (TRM), Aculops lycopersici, and powdery mildew (PM), Oidium neolycopersici, are two major problems in tomato cultivation for which no effective biocontrol solutions exist to date. In a greenhouse compartment, we investigated the potential of preventatively establishing the iolinid omnivorous mite Pronematus ubiquitus on potted tomato plants to control both pest and pathogen simultaneously.

RESULTS

Using Typha pollen, P. ubiquitus established well on tomato plants, with numbers reaching up to 250 motiles per tomato leaflet. The built‐up population was capable of controlling subsequent infestations with both TRM and PM. This represents the first report of an arthropod protecting a crop against pests as well as disease.

CONCLUSION

The implementation of P. ubiquitus in tomato crops could be a real game‐changer as it eliminates the need for repeated pesticide use or sulphur applications. The finding that arthropods can effectively control diseases opens up new opportunities for biological crop protection. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Chemical Vapor Deposition Single‐Crystal Diamond: A Review
Authors: Arnault Jean-Charles , Saada Samuel , Ralchenko Victor
Published: September 2021

With its outstanding physical properties, single‐crystal diamond is the material of choice for future power electronics and quantum devices. The later application field is based on the optical and spin properties of color centers hosted in diamond lattice. Two synthesis methods are currently developed to grow high‐quality diamond: high pressure and high temperature (HPHT) synthesis and chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Herein, the state of the art of single‐crystal diamond growth by CVD, either starting with diamond substrate (homoepitaxy) or controlling diamond epitaxial nucleation on a foreign substrate (heteroepitaxy) is described. Progress on substrates, dislocation propagation, and reduction of structural defects, doping, upscaling, and applications are reviewed. In light of recent progress, future challenges and the respective roles of homoepitaxial and heteroepitaxial materials in the applications roadmap are discussed.
Crosstalk between estrogen, dendritic cells, and SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Mateus Daniela , Sebastião Ana Isabel , Carrascal Mylène A. , Carmo Anália do , Matos Ana Miguel , Cruz Maria Teresa
Published: September 2021

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid‐19) first appeared in Wuhan and has so far killed more than four million people worldwide. Men are more affected than women by Covid‐19, but the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind these differences are largely unknown. One plausible explanation is that differences in sex hormones could partially account for this distinct prevalence in both sexes. Accordingly, several papers have reported a protective role of 17β‐estradiol during Covid‐19, which might help explain why women appear less likely to die from Covid‐19 than men. 17β‐estradiol is the predominant and most biologically active endogenous estrogen, which signals through estrogen receptor α, estrogen receptor β, and G protein‐coupled estrogen receptor 1. These receptors are expressed in mature cells from the innate and the adaptive immune system, particularly on dendritic cells (DCs), suggesting that estrogens could modulate their effector functions. DCs are the most specialized and proficient antigen‐presenting cells, acting at the interface of innate and adaptive immunity with a powerful capacity to prime antigen‐specific naive CD8+ T cells. DCs are richly abundant in the lung where they respond to viral infection. A relative increase of mature DCs in broncho‐alveolar lavage fluids from Covid‐19 patients has already been reported. Here we will describe how SARS‐CoV‐2 acts on DCs, the role of estrogen on DC immunobiology, summarise the impact of sex hormones on the immune response against Covid‐19, and explore clinical trials regarding Covid‐19
Condensation of Active Methylene and Substituted Aldehydes over Mesoporous Nickel Oxides Nanostructures: A Combined Experimental and DFT Study
Authors: Khairy Mohamed , Mohamed Mounir , Ismael Mohamed
Published: September 2021

Mesoporous NiO nanoarchitectures (NAs) with controlled hexagonal platelet‐ and flower‐like morphology were synthesized using facile hydrothermal methods in different reaction conditions. The NiO NAs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N2 adsorption /desorption isotherms, and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction. It was found that controlled morphology, large surface areas, and high crystallinity of NiO NAs offered high catalytic reactivity toward Knoevenagel condensation reactions. Large reaction yields in an aqueous media and easy separation of the NiO NAs without losing the catalytic activity were observed. Further, the formation mechanism of
bonds over NiO NAs surface was explored by density functional theory (DFT). These findings open a new avenue for efficient
bonds formation using reusable NiO NAs catalyst without using any expensive solvents.
Highly Accurate Potential Energy Curves for the Hydrogen Molecular Ion
Authors: Fernández Francisco M. , Garcia Javier
Published: September 2021

Potential energy curves of the hydrogen molecular ion in the Born‐Oppenheimer approximation are computed by means of the Riccati‐Padé method (RPM). The convergence properties of the method are analysed for different states. The equilibrium internuclear distance, as well as the corresponding electronic plus nuclear energy, and the associated separation constants, are computed to 40 digits of accuracy for several bound states. For the ground state the same parameters are computed with more than 100 digits of accuracy. Additional benchmark values of the electronic energy at different internuclear distances are given for several additional states. The software implementation of the RPM is given under a free software license. The results obtained in the present work are the most accurate available so far, and further additional benchmarks are made available through the software provided.
Single‐Atom Pt Loaded Zinc Vacancies ZnO–ZnS Induced Type‐V Electron Transport for Efficiency Photocatalytic H2 Evolution
Authors: Liu Yujie , Zhu Qiaohong , Tayyab Muhammad , Zhou Liang , Lei Juying , Zhang Jinlong
Published: September 2021

Semiconductor supported noble metal nanoparticles are widely used in H2 evolution. Due to the high cost and low catalytic efficiency of noble metals, single‐atom catalysts (SACs) are considered as very potential materials to overcome these shortcomings. Herein, the construction of the ZnO–ZnS heterojunction with an excess amount of Zn vacancies promotes the separation of charge carriers and improves the utilization of electrons. Meanwhile, the zinc vacancies on ZnS provide effective anchor sites for Pt atoms, which is beneficial to obtain highly dispersed single Pt atoms catalyst (ZOS‐SAPt). Due to the formation of an intermediate energy level by zinc vacancies, the introduction of Pt single atoms promotes the novel type‐V electron transport from the conduction band of ZnO to the intermediate energy level and then to the Pt atom. The type‐V electron transport not only retains the high reduction potential of photogenerated electrons, but also avoids the loss of carriers. The resultant ZOS‐SAPt shows outstanding photocatalytic performance for H2 evolution under simulated sunlight, reaching 9.6 mmol g−1 h−1, which is 201 times that of ZnO–ZnS. These results provide important information for further development of photocatalysts.
Self‐compacting high‐performance fiber concrete for foundations: Part 1 ‐experimental verification and design considerations
Authors: Walraven Joost , Droogné Didier , Grünewald Steffen , Taerwe Luc , Cotovanu Bogdan , Rovers John
Published: September 2021

An investigation is carried out into the applicability of self‐compacting high‐performance fiber concrete (HPFC) in foundations. A concrete mixture has been designed with a concrete cube strength of about 110 MPa. The concrete contains 60 kg/m3 steel fibers. The properties of the HPFC developed are very suitable for structural applications, especially because the post‐cracking tensile strength, provided by the fibers, is higher than the axial tensile strength of the concrete so that hardening in tension occurs after crack formation, often characterized by multiple cracking. This not only results in a high bearing capacity but as well in substantial durability. As a potential application foundation elements are considered. Experiments have been carried out to determine the pre‐ and post‐cracking strength properties, the shear resistance of short beams with loads near to the supports, the anchorage length of reinforcing bars, and the shear capacity of pile caps. The results of the tests are used for verification of the applicability of the general design rules for fiber concrete, as found in the fib Model Code 2010, to the HPFC developed. The HPFC developed is characterized by high strength and ductility, is durable and self‐compacting. The research program showed that the design of structures with the HPFC considered can be based on existing design rules with some extensions.
The effect of chemical treatment of the sheep embryo zona pellucida on the ability of blastocysts to hatch after vitrification and warming
Authors: Mousavi Fatemeh‐Sadat , Ahmadi Ebrahim , Shirazi Abolfazl , Shams‐Esfandabadi Naser , Nazari Hassan
Published: September 2021

Background

The embryo release from the zona pellucida is of prerequisites of successful implantation.

Objectives

Regarding the negative impact of embryo cryopreservation on the blastocysts hatchability, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of treating embryonic zona pellucida with pronase or acidic Tyrode's solution (ATS) before morula formation on the viability, freezability, and hatchability of vitrified‐warmed resulted blastocysts.

Methods

In the first experiment, the zona pellucida of 3‐ and 4‐day‐old embryos were treated with the above compounds for 30 or 45 s. Then, the competency of the treated embryos to reach to blastocyst stage and the hatchability of resulting blastocysts were investigated. In the second experiment, the cryo‐survivability and hatching rate of blastocysts resulting from 3‐day‐old embryos treated with pronase and ATS for 30 s were tested.

Results

In the first experiment and in contrast to the 45 s exposure, 30‐s exposure of embryos to pronase or ATS did not have negative effect on the viability and development of embryos to blastocyst stage. In the second experiment, the freezability of blastocysts derived from 3‐day‐old embryos treated with pronase and ATS for 30 s was not different from that of the control group. However, the hatching rate of the pronase group was significantly higher than that of the control group.

Conclusion

The results of the present study showed that reducing the thickness of zona pellucida of sheep embryos with pronase had no negative effect on the developmental competency and freezability of the treated embryos and improved the hatchability of vitrified‐warmed blastocysts.