bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decoding family‐level features for modern and fossil leaves from computer‐vision heat maps
Authors: Spagnuolo Edward J. , Wilf Peter , Serre Thomas
Published: March 2022

Premise

Angiosperm leaves present a classic identification problem due to their morphological complexity. Computer‐vision algorithms can identify diagnostic regions in images, and heat map outputs illustrate those regions for identification, providing novel insights through visual feedback. We investigate the potential of analyzing leaf heat maps to reveal novel, human‐friendly botanical information with applications for extant‐ and fossil‐leaf identification.

Methods

We developed a manual scoring system for hotspot locations on published computer‐vision heat maps of cleared leaves that showed diagnostic regions for family identification. Heat maps of 3114 cleared leaves of 930 genera in 14 angiosperm families were analyzed. The top‐5 and top‐1 hotspot regions of highest diagnostic value were scored for 21 leaf locations. The resulting data were viewed using box plots and analyzed using cluster and principal component analyses. We manually identified similar features in fossil leaves to informally demonstrate potential fossil applications.

Results

The method successfully mapped machine strategy using standard botanical language, and distinctive patterns emerged for each family. Hotspots were concentrated on secondary veins (Salicaceae, Myrtaceae, Anacardiaceae), tooth apices (Betulaceae, Rosaceae), and on the little‐studied margins of untoothed leaves (Rubiaceae, Annonaceae, Ericaceae). Similar features drove the results from multivariate analyses. The results echo many traditional observations, while also showing that most diagnostic leaf features remain undescribed.

Conclusions

Machine‐derived heat maps that initially appear to be dominated by noise can be translated into human‐interpretable knowledge, highlighting paths forward for botanists and paleobotanists to discover new diagnostic botanical characters.
Midlife lipid and glucose levels are associated with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Zhang Xiaoling , Tong Tong , Chang Andrew , Ang Ting Fang Alvin , Tao Qiushan , Auerbach Sanford , Devine Sherral , Qiu Wei Qiao , Mez Jesse , Massaro Joseph , Lunetta Kathryn L. , Au Rhoda , Farrer Lindsay A.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

It is unknown whether vascular and metabolic diseases assessed in early adulthood are associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) later in life.

Methods

Association of AD with lipid fractions, glucose, blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and smoking obtained prospectively from 4932 Framingham Heart Study (FHS) participants across nine quadrennial examinations was evaluated using Cox proportional hazard and Kaplan‐Meier models. Age‐, sex‐, and education‐adjusted models were tested for each factor measured at each exam and within three adult age groups (early = 35‐50, middle = 51‐60, and late = 61‐70).

Results

A 15 mg/dL increase in high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol was associated with decreased AD risk during early (15.4%, P = 0.041) and middle (17.9%, P = 0.014) adulthood. A 15 mg/dL increase in glucose measured during middle adulthood was associated with 14.5% increased AD risk (P = 0.00029). These findings remained significant after adjusting for treatment.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that careful management of cholesterol and glucose beginning in early adulthood can lower AD risk.
[FeFe]‐Hydrogenase: Defined Lysate‐Free Maturation Reveals a Key Role for Lipoyl‐H‐Protein in DTMA Ligand Biosynthesis
Authors: Pagnier Adrien , Balci Batuhan , Shepard Eric M. , Yang Hao , Warui Douglas M. , Impano Stella , Booker Squire J. , Hoffman Brian M. , Broderick William E. , Broderick Joan B.
Published: March 2022

Maturation of [FeFe]‐hydrogenase (HydA) involves synthesis of a CO, CN−, and dithiomethylamine (DTMA)‐coordinated 2Fe subcluster that is inserted into HydA to make the active hydrogenase. This process requires three maturation enzymes: the radical S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine (SAM) enzymes HydE and HydG, and the GTPase HydF. In vitro maturation with purified maturation enzymes has been possible only when clarified cell lysate was added, with the lysate presumably providing essential components for DTMA synthesis and delivery. Here we report maturation of [FeFe]‐hydrogenase using a fully defined system that includes components of the glycine cleavage system (GCS), but no cell lysate. Our results reveal for the first time an essential role for the aminomethyl‐lipoyl‐H‐protein of the GCS in hydrogenase maturation and the synthesis of the DTMA ligand of the H‐cluster. In addition, we show that ammonia is the source of the bridgehead nitrogen of DTMA.
Bioprospecting microalgae with the capacity for inducing calcium carbonate biomineral precipitation
Authors: Arumugam Kavithraashree , Mohamad Rosfarizan , Ashari Siti Efliza , Tan Joo Shun , Mohamed Mohd Shamzi
Published: March 2022

Calcium carbonate precipitation is a form of sedimentary carbonate which occurs naturally in an ecosystem saturated with calcium ions and prompted by a wide assortment of microorganisms through various biological processes. The phenomenon, also known as “Microbially Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation” (MICP), may find the characteristics of its by‐product biomineral to be a promising alternative for conventional cement. Several microalgae species can produce cementitious CaCO3 deposits, which are permanently removed as solid crystal upon achieving suitable conditions for precipitation. This study assessed a total of eight microalgae for their biomineralization capability in calcification media containing 12 mM of calcium chloride dihydrate and 0.18 to 5.0 mM of sodium bicarbonate by analyzing the profiles of cell growth, pH, calcium and bicarbonate ions concentration, alkalinity, and saturation index. Among the microalgae tested, Synechocystis sp. ATCC 27178 cultured in BG‐11 medium with 5.0 mM of NaHCO3 had shown the highest calcium ions removal rate (0.70 mM/day), followed by Chlorella vulgaris (0.40 mM/day). The morphology of CaCO3 crystals precipitated from these microalgae was analyzed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX). The elucidation of the crystal polymorph as calcite was then confirmed through X‐ray diffraction analysis.
Silver‐catalyzed Radical Cascade Arylthiodifluoromethylation/ Cyclization of Isonitriles for the Synthesis of 6‐Phenanthridinyldifluoromethyl Aryl Thioethers
Authors: Du Pengcheng , Sun Qianqian , Li Hongxiao , Zhang Jianhua , Deng Hongmei , Jiang Haizhen
Published: March 2022

An efficient method for silver‐catalyzed radical cascade arylthiodifluoromethylation/cyclization of isonitriles is disclosed. The transformation comprised addition of an arylthiodifluoromethyl radical generated in situ by the oxidative decarboxylation of arylthiodifluoroacetic salts to the isonitrile functionality to construct an ArSCF2−C bond, followed by intramolecular cyclization to eventually afford 6‐phenanthridinyldifluoromethyl aryl thioethers. The protocol provided a variety of 6‐phenanthridinyldifluoromethyl aryl thioethers in medium to excellent yields with a good functional group tolerance under mild reaction conditions.
Recent Advances in Group 14 and 15 Lewis Acids for Frustrated Lewis Pair Chemistry
Authors: Sarkar Pallavi , Das Shubhajit , Pati Swapan K.
Published: March 2022

Frustrated Lewis pairs (FLP) which rely on the cooperative action of Lewis acids and Lewis bases, played a prominent role in the advancement of main‐group catalysis. While the early days of FLP chemistry witnessed the dominance of boranes, there is a growing body of reports on alternative Lewis acids derived from groups 14 and 15. This short review focuses on the discovery of such non‐boron candidates reported since 2015.
Autonomous rover guidance and localization by measuring the peak of a tall landmark
Authors: Kim Jonghoek
Published: March 2022

This paper handles locating an autonomous rover whose mission is to explore the unknown outdoor environments, while localizing itself. For localization, the rover occasionally measures the peak of a tall landmark which is known a priori. For the peak measurement, the rover utilizes a monocular camera which is stabilized utilizing a gimbal system. In addition, the rover uses object detection methods to detect a landmark in its camera view. We assume that the height of the landmark is known a priori. Also, we assume that the rover has an altimeter to measure its altitude. Under these assumptions, we present a method to make the rover estimate the relative position of the landmark. Suppose that the rover's target location is set, so that the rover needs to visit the target while avoiding collision with obstacles. Due to environmental disturbance, the rover may not maintain its desired course while it moves. We thus address a guidance control to make the rover approach the target, while compensating the environmental disturbance at the rover's position. As far as we know, this paper is novel in addressing the rover's guidance and localization by measuring the peak of a tall landmark which is known a priori. Furthermore, this paper is novel in utilizing gimbal camera for localization. Thus, we do not require heavy computational load caused by calculating the 6‐DOF transform between the camera and the rover's pose. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is verified utilizing MATLAB simulations.
School closures and educational attainment in Ethiopia: Can extra classes help children to catch up?
Authors: Carmichael Fiona , Darko Christian K. , Kanji Shireen , Vasilakos Nicholas
Published: March 2022

School closures impact children's attainment adversely, but understanding the effects of closures on children's attainment in lower‐income countries is still limited. Addressing this deficit, this study examines how past school closures have impacted children's educational attainment in Ethiopia. The study uses individual student‐level data from the Young Lives School Survey and standardised test scores in mathematics and language recorded at the start and end of the school year to model children's attainment. Multiple regression with propensity score matching is used to analyse how attainment over the school year is impacted by school closures for a matched sub‐sample of 4842 students. The effectiveness of additional classes to make up for lost learning is also evaluated. Past school closures have had a detrimental effect on attainment in mathematics, but not literacy. Extra classes, specifically those that families do not pay for, have helped children in the past to recuperate lost learning and could serve this function post‐Covid‐19. Inequalities in learning outcomes, measured by Gini coefficients in educational attainment, are widened by school closures. Applying these results to the extensive school closures under Covid‐19 furthers our understanding of the likely effects on academic attainment and can inform policy to mitigate the impact.
Application of 2,4,5‐tris(2‐pyridyl)imidazole as ‘turn‐off’ fluorescence sensor for Cu(II) and Hg(II) ions andin vitrocell imaging
Authors: Bhattacharya Araghni , Mahata Satyajit , Bandyopadhyay Ashutosh , Mandal Biman B. , Manivannan Vadivelu
Published: March 2022

The 2,4,5‐tris(2‐pyridyl)imidazole (L) molecule has been evaluated as a probe for dual sensing of Hg2+and Cu2+ions in EtOH/HEPES buffer medium (5 mM, pH = 7.34, 1:1,v/v). ProbeLshows a good sensitive and selectiveturn‐offresponse in the presence of both Hg2+and Cu2+ions, which is comprehensible under long UV light. The probe can detect Cu2+ion in the pH range 3–11 and Hg2+ion in pH 6–8. The limit of detection for Cu2+(0.77 μM) is well under the allowable limit prescribed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Two metal (Cu2+/Hg2+) ions are needed perLfor complete fluorescence quenching. The probe shows marked reversibility on treatment with Na2EDTA, making the protocol more economical for practical purposes. Paper strip coated with theLsolution of EtOH can detect the presence of Cu2+and Hg2+ions in the sample using visible quenching of the fluorescence intensity. Density functional theory–time‐dependent density functional theory (DFT–TDDFT) calculations support experimental observations, andd‐orbitals of Cu2+/Hg2+provide a nonradiative decay pathway. Cell imaging study using HDF and MDA‐MB‐231 cells also supported the viability ofLin detecting Cu2+and Hg2+ions in living cells.
Functional relationship between the anatomical structures of the calf and athletic ability
Authors: Lee Kyu‐Lim , Sung Jun‐Young , Oh Tae‐Woong , Kim Hee‐Jin
Published: March 2022

Calf muscle plays an important function in driving the movement of stepping on the ground and moving forward when walking or running. The Achilles tendon has been reported to be closely related to the elasticity of tendons to absorb shock and rebound and convert energy into propulsion. We wanted to determine the effect and correlation of the anatomical structure of the calf region on function. Measurements of anatomical structures were conducted with 51 volunteers using ultrasonography, and exercise capacity tests were conducted to measure anaerobic power, elasticity, and flexibility. The mean power and length of the calf (LoC), muscle thickness (MT), and fascicle angle (FA) of the medial head of gastrocnemius (p < 0.001) showed the strongest positive correlation among the variables of anatomical structures. MT of the Gastrocnemius and LoC Gastrocnemius were also correlated with peak power. In the anatomical structure variables, the FA of the lateral head of gastrocnemius, length and width of the Achilles tendon, and part of the athletic ability, the standing long jump test and sitting trunk flexion test, were not significantly correlated. Based on these results, it can be concluded that the height and degree of development of the calf muscles are structures that affect the exercise of anaerobic power. Hence, it can be used as a predictor of athletic ability. Furthermore, the trainer can predict athletic ability according to the characteristics of the event by first understanding the athlete's physical condition.
Barriers and facilitators of young people’s engagement with webchat counselling: A qualitative analysis informed by the Behaviour Change Wheel
Authors: Mawdsley Geoffrey , Richiello Maria , Gutman Leslie Morrison
Published: March 2022

Young people's engagement with online counselling remains an endemic obstacle faced by mental health services. This study utilises the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) framework to systematically explore the barriers and facilitators of young people's behavioural engagement with online webchat counselling. The current study defines behavioural engagement as any observable or active contribution by the young person in the webchat sessions, such as written verbalisation and self‐expression. Semi‐structured interviews with counsellors (n = 8) and open‐ended questionnaire data from 43 young people (aged 18–25 years) were gathered and then coded. Nine core themes were identified including communication difficulties, the safety of the webchat environment, absence of face‐to‐face communication, ambiguity in messages or pauses, reaching goals, optimism about outcomes, pre‐existing anxieties, mood or well‐being and wanting/not wanting to attend. Using the BCW framework, these themes were mapped to broad intervention functions and behaviour change techniques (BCTs) to provide suggestions to optimise young people's engagement with online counselling. These include the application of persuasive design features, the use of social strategies, increased counsellor training and greater personalisation of the online therapeutic approach. Future research can determine the effectiveness of these proposed strategies and BCTs to enrich the emerging engagement strategy field and the wider digital and mental health behaviour change literature.
Annual operator volume among patients treated using percutaneous coronary interventions with rotational atherectomy and procedural outcomes: Analysis based on a large national registry
Authors: Januszek Rafał , Siudak Zbigniew , Malinowski Krzysztof P. , Wańha Wojciech , Wojakowski Wojciech , Reczuch Krzysztof , Dobrzycki Sławomir , Lesiak Maciej , Hawranek Michał , Gil Robert J. , Witkowski Adam , Lekston Andrzej , Gąsior Mariusz , Chyrchel Michał , Jędrychowska Magdalena , Bartuś Krzysztof , Zajdel Wojciech , Legutko Jacek , Bartuś Stanisław
Published: March 2022

Background

Low operator and institutional volume are associated with poorer procedural and long‐term clinical outcomes in the general population of patients treated with percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI).

Aim

To assess the relationship between operator experience and procedural outcomes of patients treated with PCI and rotational atherectomy (RA).

Methods

Data for conducting the current analysis were obtained from the national registry of percutaneous coronary interventions (ORPKI) maintained in cooperation with the Association of Cardiovascular Interventions (AISN) of the Polish Cardiac Society. The study covers data from January 2014 to December 2020.

Results

During the investigated period, there were 162 active CathLabs, at which 747,033 PCI procedures were performed by 851 operators (377 RA operators [44.3%]). Of those, 5188 were PCI with RA procedures; average 30 ± 61 per site/7 years (Me: 3; Q1–Q3: 0–31); 6 ± 18 per operator/7 years (Me: 0; Q1–Q3: 0–3). Considering the number of RA procedures annually performed by individual operators during the analyzed 7 years, the first quartile totaled (Q1: < =2.57), the second (Q2: < =5.57), and the third (Q3: < =11.57), while the fourth quartile was (Q4: > 11.57). The maximum number of procedures was 39.86 annually per operator. We demonstrated, through a nonlinear relationship with annualized operator volume and risk‐adjusted, that operators performing more PCI with RA per year (fourth quartile) have a lower number of the overall periprocedural complications (p = 0.019).

Conclusions

High‐volume RA operators are related to lower overall periprocedural complication occurrence in patients treated with RA in comparison to low‐volume operators.
Rare clinical case report of a contralateral effect of laser biostimulation on the bone regeneration
Authors: Habash Ghassan , Jayash Soher Nagi
Published: March 2022

This paper describes a unique clinical case of peri‐implantitis treated by a laser biostimulation in one side of maxilla and the effect extended to contralateral side in the maxilla. This indicates that low level laser therapy treatment may have some degree of bilateral effects within the orofacial region.
Designer Gold‐Framed Palladium Nanocubes for Plasmon‐Enhanced Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Ethanol
Authors: Zhao Yuhui , Wu Fengxia , Wei Jinping , Sun Hongda , Yuan Yali , Bao Haibo , Li Fenghua , Zhang Zhichao , Han Shuang , Niu Wenxin
Published: March 2022

Surface plasmon of coinage metal nanostructures has been employed as a powerful route in boosting the performances in heterogenous catalysis. Development of efficient plasmonic nanocatalysts with high catalytic performance and efficient light harvesting properties is of vital importance. Herein, we rationally designed and synthesized a plasmonic nanocatalyst composed of Au‐framed Pd nanocubes by an Ag(I)‐assisted seed‐mediated growth method. In the synthesis, the incorporation of Ag(I) suppresses the reduction of Au on the {100} surface of cubic Pd seeds and leads to the formation of Au nanoframes on the Pd nanocubes. The unique Au‐framed Pd nanocubes can integrate the superior electrocatalytic of Pd and the outstanding plasmonic properties of Au. Thus, these nanostructures were employed as plasmonic nanocatalysts for plasmon‐enhanced electrocatalytic oxidation of ethanol with improved stability.
Stable Triarylmethyl Radicals and Cobalt(II) Ions Based 1D/2D Coordination Polymers
Authors: Hou Xudong , Truong Nguyen Giang , Xu Tingting , Wei Haipeng , Seng Herng Tun , Huo Guifei , Wang Dingguan , Ding Jun , Wu Shaofei , Ungur Liviu , Wu Jishan
Published: March 2022

The incorporation of organic radicals into coordination polymers was considered as a promising strategy to promote metal‐ligand exchange interactions, but there are only a very limited number of stable organic radical‐based ligands that can serve well such a purpose. Herein, we report two new tris(2,4,6‐trichlorophenyl)methyl (TTM) radical‐based ligands L1 and L2 with two and three imidazole substituents, respectively. The imidazole unit serves as a coordination site and it can also stabilize the TTM radical by intramolecular donor–acceptor interaction. Coordination of L1 and L2 with cobalt(II) ions gave the corresponding one‐ (CoCP‐1) and two‐dimensional (CoCP‐2) coordination polymers, the structures of which were confirmed by X‐ray crystallographic analysis. Magnetic measurements and theoretical calculations suggest antiferromagnetic coupling between the paramagnetic cobalt(II) ions and the radical ligands. Our study provides a rational design for stable organic radical‐based ligands and further demonstrated the feasibility of a metal–radical approach toward magnetic materials.
Pt Nanoparticles with Enhanced Deaminase‐like Activity: Example of Oxidative Deamination of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfurylamine and Glutamic Acid
Authors: Lancien Antoine , Heuson Egon , Dumeignil Franck , Itabaiana Ivaldo , Froidevaux Renato , Wojcieszak Robert
Published: March 2022

Oxidative deamination is part of the metabolic pathways of amino acid oxidase and glutamate dehydrogenase enzymes, and enables obtaining α‐keto acid from amino compound with ammonia as a by‐product. This work presents the utilization of Pt‐based catalyst composed of small platinum nanoparticles supported on industrial silica support (Pt/SiO2). This nanozyme was tested in the oxidative deamination reaction of two amino compounds: 5‐hydroxymethylfurfurylamine (HMFA) to 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and glutamic acid (GA) to α‐ketoglutaric acid (KGA). This paper outlines the use of Pt nanozymes with deaminase‐like activity. We showed the ability of this nanozymes to be selective and active in liquid phase oxidative deamination of HMFA and glutamic acid in a 6 to 9 pH range at 60 °C under atmospheric pressure. Pt/SiO2 nanozyme actually plays as a deaminase mimic with high HMFA conversion (60%) and cumulative yield to the corresponding desaminated keto compounds (67%).
Advances in Brain Delivery Systems Based on Biomimetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Li Congwen , Qian Jiawen , Chu Yiwei
Published: March 2022

At present, therapeutics for the diseases of central nervous system (CNS) are complicated by the presence of the blood‐brain barrier (BBB). The BBB maintains intracranial homeostasis and facilitates brain‐body communications, but hinders the effectiveness of drug‐delivery systems based on nanoparticles (NPs). Great efforts have been devoted to the imprvement of NP‐based brain delivery over the past decades. In addition to chemical modifications, biomimetic technologies such as cell membranes or neurotropic viruses camouflage, immune cells or extracellular vesicles (EVs) loading are promising candidates to make NPs ideal vehicles. This review summarizes the characteristics and transport mechanisms of BBB, and the recent advances in biomimetic technologies as well as administration methods that enhance the BBB penetration and targeting capabilities of NPs.
Optimization of reinforcement routing for wireless mesh network using machine learning and high‐performance computing
Authors: Singh Ankita , Prakash Shiv , Singh Sudhakar
Published: March 2022

In the modern world, wireless mesh networks (WMN) are widely used in Internet of Things (IoT) applications. It is a dynamic, infrastructure‐less multihop network with mobility features. In WMN, to design an effective and strong routing protocol is a challenge. Conventional protocols for routing using a remote vector or link‐state routing are not ideal for a wireless network. The shortest routing path is used with all current traditional routing protocols to pick a route with a minimum number of hops. The decisions must be done in real‐time in high‐traffic networks for the route selection and for the packets to be diversified into other routes. The routing protocols should adapt to the traffic conditions, that is, the network load changes and the route must be selected accordingly. The route may not be the shortest in number, but the best in terms of the actual time a packet requires to reach the target. The key objective of this research work is to design such an adaptive routing algorithm, while minimizing the delivery time and preventing the network from congestion. The rationale for this research work is to optimize adaptive routing protocol based on reinforcement learning, which efficiently delivers packets in the WMN. The experimental evaluation demonstrates that the obtained results significantly improve the system performance compared to the benchmark routing protocols. The Quality of Service (QoS) parameters such as packet delivery ratio (PDR), delay, and throughput metrics are used to assess the performance of the proposed technique using the NS‐3 simulator.
Demographic responses of nearly extirpated endangered mountain caribou to recovery actions in Central British Columbia
Authors: McNay R. Scott , Lamb Clayton T. , Giguere Line , Williams Sara H. , Martin Hans , Sutherland Glenn D. , Hebblewhite Mark
Published: March 2022

Recovering endangered species is a difficult and often controversial task that challenges status quo land uses. Southern Mountain caribou are a threatened ecotype of caribou that historically ranged in southwestern Canada and northwestern USA and epitomize the tension between resource extraction, biodiversity conservation, and Indigenous Peoples' treaty rights. Human‐induced habitat alteration is considered the ultimate cause of caribou population declines, whereby an increased abundance of primary prey—such as moose and deer—elevates predator populations and creates unsustainable caribou mortality. Here we focus on the Klinse‐Za and Quintette subpopulations, part of the endangered Central Group of Southern Mountain caribou in British Columbia. These subpopulations were trending toward immediate extirpation until a collaborative group initiated recovery by implementing two short‐term recovery actions. We test the effectiveness of these recovery actions—maternity penning of adult females and their calves, and the reduction of a primary predator, wolves—in increasing vital rates and population growth. Klinse‐Za received both recovery actions, whereas Quintette only received wolf reductions, providing an opportunity to test efficacy between recovery actions. Between 1995 and 2021, we followed 162 collared female caribou for 414 animal‐years to estimate survival and used aerial counts to estimate population abundance and calf recruitment. We combined these data in an integrated population model to estimate female population growth, total population abundance, and recovery action effectiveness. Results suggest that the subpopulations were declining rapidly (λ = 0.90–0.93)before interventions and would have been functionally extirpated (<10 animals) within 10–15 years. Wolf reduction increased population growth rates by ~0.12 for each subpopulation. Wolf reduction halted the decline of Quintette caribou and allowed them to increase (λ = 1.05), but alone would have only stabilized the Klinse‐Za (λ = 1.02). However, maternity penning in the Klinse‐Za increased population growth by a further ~0.06, which when combined with wolf reductions, allowed populations to grow (λ = 1.08). Taken together, the recovery actions in these subpopulations increased adult female survival, calf recruitment, and overall population growth, more than doubling abundance. Our results suggest that maternity penning and wolf reductions can be effective at increasing caribou numbers in the short term, while long‐term commitments to habitat protection and restoration are made.
A paleoecological context to assess the development of oak forest in Colombia: A comment on Zorilla‐Azcué, S., Gonzalez‐Rodríguez, A., Oyama, K., González, M.A., & Rodríguez‐Correa, H., The DNA history of a lonely oak: Quercus humboldtii phylogeography in the Colombian Andes. Ecology and Evolution 2021, doi: 10.100‐2/ece3.7529
Authors: Hooghiemstra Henry , Cleef Antoine M. , Flantua Suzette G. A.
Published: March 2022

The present “comment” on Zorilla‐Azcué et al.’s paper “The DNA history of a lonely oak: Quercus humboldtii phylogeography in the Colombian Andes. Ecology and Evolution 2021, doi:10.100‐2/ece3.7529” provides the paleoecological understanding of oak forest since Quercus became apparent in the Northern Andes three glacial–interglacial cycles ago. The interpretation of phylogeographical data is placed in an up‐to‐date paleoecological context. We arrived at sharper conclusions how genetic diversity between Q. humboldtii populations might have been driven by the dynamic environmental theatre of the recent Pleistocene. This paleoecological context also serves the potential future analyses of other arboreal taxa from the Andean montane forest belt. We show that hypotheses to be tested should grow out of phylogenetic analysis and paleoecological understanding together.
Leapfrog migration and residents: New migratory habits in Swedish Greylag geese
Authors: Nilsson Lovisa , Olsson Camilla , Elmberg Johan , Bunnefeld Nils , Liljebäck Niklas , Månsson Johan
Published: March 2022

Knowledge about intraspecific and individual variation in bird migration behavior is important to predict spatiotemporal distribution, patterns of phenology, breeding success, and interactions with the surrounding environment (e.g., human livelihoods). Such variation is key to adaptive, evolutionary responses, i.e., how individuals respond spatiotemporally to the environment to maximize fitness. In this study we used GPS location data from one to three full annual cycles from 76 Greylag geese (Anser anser) to test the hypothesis that geese originating at five latitudinally separated capture sites in Sweden have different migration strategies. We also assessed individual consistency in movement strategy over consecutive annual cycles. We used the scale‐independent net squared displacement modeling framework to quantify variables of autumn and spring migration for geese from each capture site: distance, timing, and duration. Our results demonstrate a positive correlation between migration distance and latitudinal origin. Geese from the northernmost site on average migrated farther south and about 15 times as far as the short‐moving or resident geese from the two southernmost sites. Movement strategies of individual geese varied considerably both within and among capture sites. Individual consistency in movement strategy from one annual cycle to the consecutive was high in geese from the northern sites moving the farthest, whereas the resident or short‐moving geese from the southernmost sites generally showed lower or no individual consistency. These changes have come about during a time span so short (i.e., ca. 35 years or 8–10 generations) that it can unlikely be explained by classical Darwinian between‐generation adaptation. Consequently, and given that young geese follow their parents during their first migration, we presume an important role of within‐family, inter‐generation change as a driver behind the large‐scale changed migration habits in Swedish Greylag geese.
Left ventricular output indices and sacubitril/valsartan titration: role of stroke volume index
Authors: Tolomeo Paolo , Zucchetti Ottavio , D'Aniello Emanuele , Punzo Noemi , Marchini Federico , Di Ienno Luca , Tonet Elisabetta , Pavasini Rita , Rapezzi Claudio , Campo Gianluca , Serenelli Matteo
Published: March 2022

Aims

This study aims to investigate the role of echocardiographically determined left ventricular output indices on sacubitril/valsartan titration in a cohort of outpatients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods and results

We analysed 106 HFrEF patients who underwent echocardiography examination up to 1 week before starting treatment with sacubitril/valsartan. For each patient, a comprehensive list of clinical and laboratory parameters was collected, and stroke volume index (SVi), cardiac index, and flow rate were calculated. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of complete titration of sacubitril/valsartan. The secondary endpoint was the incidence of adverse events (hypotension and renal adverse events). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify variables associated with the primary and secondary endpoints. Mean age of patients was 73.7 ± 10.4 years, 72 patients (71.7%) had ischaemic aetiology of HF, and mean ejection fraction was 29.4 ± 5.9%. At multivariate analysis, SVi [odds ratio (OR) 1.43 per 5 mL/m2 increase, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–1.97; P = 0.028], serum sodium (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.02–1.37; P = 0.022), and haemoglobin (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.25–2.40; P = 0.001) were found to be independent predictors of titration during follow‐up. Multivariate analysis for the secondary endpoint showed SVi (OR 0.63 per 5 mL/m2 increase, 95% CI 0.44–0.90; P = 0.012) and New York Heart Association Class III (OR 2.65, 95% CI 1.07–6.5; P = 0.034) to be associated with hypotension.

Conclusions

Stroke volume index is positively associated with complete titration of sacubitril/valsartan. Patients with low SVi are more prone to experience hypotension during titration
Movement therapy in advanced heart failure assisted by a lightweight wearable robot: a feasibility pilot study
Authors: Just Isabell Anna , Fries Denis , Loewe Sina , Falk Volkmar , Cesarovic Nikola , Edelmann Frank , Feuerstein Anna , Haufe Florian L. , Xiloyannis Michele , Riener Robert , Schoenrath Felix
Published: March 2022

Aims

The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the safety, feasibility, tolerability, and acceptability of an assisted mobilization of advanced heart failure patients, using a lightweight, exoskeleton‐type robot (Myosuit, MyoSwiss AG, Zurich, Switzerland).

Methods and results

Twenty patients in functional NYHA class III performed activities of daily life (ADL, n = 10) or participated in a single, standardized, 60 min rehabilitation exercise unit (REU, n = 10) with and without the Myosuit. The outcome assessment included the evaluation of vital signs, adverse events, rates of perceived exertion and dyspnoea (RPE, RPD), the ability to perform ADL or REU, and the individual acceptability. The mean age of the subjects was 49.4 (±11.0) years; 80% were male. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 22.1% (±7.4%) and the median NT‐proBNP 2054 pg/mL (IQR 677, 3270 pg/mL). In all patients, mobilization with the Myosuit was feasible independently or with minor support. The mean individual difference in the total walking distance of the patients without and with robotic assistance was −26.5 m (95% confidence interval (CI) −142 to 78 m, P = 0.241). No adverse events occurred. RPE and RPD showed no significant difference with or without the device (ADL: RPE −0.1 m, 95% CI −1.42 to 1.62, P = 0.932 and RPD −0.95 m, 95% CI −0.38 to 2.28, P = 0.141; REU: RPE 1.1 m, 95% CI −2.90 to 0.70, P = 0.201 and RPD 0.5 m, 95% CI −2.02 to 1.02, P = 0.435). All median responses in the acceptability questionnaire were positive. The patients felt safe and enjoyed the experience; 85% would be interested in participating in robot‐assisted training on a regular basis.

Conclusion

This feasibility pilot trial provides first indications that a robotic exoskeleton‐assisted mobilization of patients with advanced heart failure is safe, feasible, well‐tolerated, and well‐accepted. The results are highly encouraging to further pursue this innovative approach in rehabilitation programmes. This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04839133.
Design of tubular high‐temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (HT‐PEM‐FCs): Development, challenges, and perspectives
Authors: Bermúdez Agudelo María Catalina , Hampe Manfred J.
Published: March 2022

Fuel cells (FCs) have gained a prominent position in recent years within the scientific community and the energy market as an alternative to mitigate the inherent problems in the energy production based on fossil fuels such as the constant reduction of nonrenewable resources, greenhouse gas emissions, and climate change. The versatility of high temperature (HT) proton exchange membrane (PEM) FCs, together with their high efficiency and potentially better performance compared to their counterparts, makes them an excellent candidate to accelerate the transition to more environmental friendly energy sources and processes. In recent years, notable developments in this technology have been reported, focusing on the cell components in a planar arrangement, which is the predominant design for all PEM‐FCs. Alternative designs are lagging, even though tubular and conical structures can eventually enhance the power density, decrease sealing areas, and reduce fabrication costs. A lack of information regarding the transition between geometries makes the development and evaluation process tedious and challenging for unconventional architectures. This manuscript describes the development of a novel HT‐PEM‐FC, pointing out the challenges faced during component manufacturing and the proposed tubular FC perspectives.
High‐pressure under‐expanded hydrogen leakage model considering gas‐wall friction loss
Authors: Wu Zhifei , Li Tekuai , Xiang Yuxia , He Mengfan
Published: March 2022

The integral model is used to predict the concentration field, only suitable for low‐pressure leakage, while the virtual nozzle model is widely used in high‐pressure leakage but ignores the friction between the hydrogen and the tube wall during the leakage. We modified the virtual nozzle model by adding the gas‐wall friction loss term to the momentum conservation equation. A theoretical model of a high‐pressure under‐expanded jet is proposed by combining the integral model with the improved virtual nozzle model, which was validated by a series of helium (instead of hydrogen) dispersion in an unenclosed environment. And then the high‐pressure hydrogen leakage system was set up to investigate hydrogen concentration along the centerline of the jet was measured under different pressures. Results show that the mole fractions along with the axial distance all comply with the hyperbolic decay law. Within the range of 40 cm < z < 100 cm, at other pressures of 1, 2, 4 MPa, the minimum deviations of high‐pressure under‐expanded hydrogen leakage prediction model and experiments are 1.67%, 1.37%, 1.33%, respectively. The study is adequately precise to predict high‐pressure leakage concentration and also gives ideas about the installation position of the hydrogen sensor in engineering.
prepareforleap: An automated tool for fast PDB‐to‐parameter generation
Authors: Roe Daniel R. , Bergonzo Christina
Published: March 2022

Setting up molecular dynamics simulations from experimentally determined structures is often complicated by a variety of factors, particularly the inclusion of carbohydrates, since these have several anomer types which can be linked in a variety of ways. Here we present a stand‐alone tool implemented in the widely‐used software CPPTRAJ that can be used to automate building structures and generating a “ready to run” parameter and coordinate file pair. This tool automatically identifies carbohydrate anomer type, configuration, linkage, and functional groups, and performs topology modifications (e.g., renaming residue/atom names) required to build the final system using state of the art GLYCAM force field parameters. It will also generate the necessary commands for bonding carbohydrates and creating any disulfide bonds.
Elevated AST/ALT ratio is associated with all‐cause mortality and cancer incident
Authors: Chen Wangyang , Wang Weibo , Zhou Lingling , Zhou Jun , He Lianping , Li Jiayi , Xu Xinyue , Wang Jixi , Wang Liangyou
Published: March 2022

Background

The aspartate transaminase (AST)‐to‐alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ratio, which is used to measure liver injury, has been found to be associated with some chronic diseases and mortality. However, its relevance to cancer incidence resulting from population‐based prospective studies has rarely been reported. In this study, we investigated the correlation of the AST/ALT ratio as a possible predictor of mortality and cancer incidence.

Methods

A total of 9,946 participants fulfilled the inclusion criteria for a basic public health service project of the Health Checkup Program conducted by the BaiYun Community Health Service Center, Taizhou. Deceased participants and cancer incident cases were from The Taizhou Chronic Disease Information Management System. Odds ratios (ORs) and interval of quartile range (IQR) computed by logistic regression analysis and cumulative incidence rate were calculated by the Kaplan–Meier survival method and compared with log‐rank test statistics.

Results

Serum ALT and AST levels were both increased in patients with chronic diseases, but the ratio of AST/ALT was generally decreased. The cancer incident cases (488 new cases) had a greater baseline ratio (median =1.23, IQR: 0.96–1.54) than noncancer cases (median =1.15, IQR: 0.91–1.44). Compared to the first quartile of the AST/ALT ratio, the population in the top quartile had a higher cumulative cancer incidence rate (7.54% vs. 4.44%) during follow‐up period. Furthermore, an elevated AST/ALT ratio increased the risk of all‐cause mortality.

Conclusions

The ratio of AST/ALT is a potential biomarker to assess healthy conditions and long‐term mortality. Especially for cancer, the AST/ALT ratio not only increases at baseline but also predicts the future development of cancer. The clinical value and potential mechanism deserve further research.
Selective preparation of bio‐based high‐value chemical of cresol with Cu‐MOF catalyst
Authors: Zhang Yanhua , Wu Xiaoping , He Yuting , Luo Yuehui , Yang Mingyu , Fan Minghui , Li Quanxin
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

The development of efficient synthetic pathways for bio‐based chemicals is beneficial to sustainable development of the chemical industry. However, directional production of phenolic chemicals using lignocellulose remains a challenging issue, because the reaction paths as well as intermediates in the catalytic transformation of lignocellulose are often complicated.

RESULTS

Bio‐based cresol can be selectively prepared from lignocellulose biomass. This steerable transformation has been achieved by lignocellulose catalytic pyrolysis to aromatic intermediates over a magnetic oxide‐modified zeolite catalyst (Fe3O4@HZSM‐5) and intermediate hydroxylation to cresol over a metal–organic framework catalyst (Cu‐MOF). Based on the analysis of intermediates and on catalyst characterization, the corresponding reaction pathways are put forward. Using the Cu‐MOF catalyst, the highest selectivity of cresol (81.5%) and the highest conversion (76.8%) were gained at 40 °C in 4 h.

CONCLUSIONS

The work presented proves that an important phenolic chemical (cresol) can be selectively prepared from lignocellulose raw materials. The Cu‐MOF catalyst shows superior performance and good reusability in the bio‐cresol synthesis. Reactive oxygen species take a prominent role in the cresol synthesis. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Comparative transcriptome analysis for the biosynthesis of antioxidant exopolysaccharide in Streptococcus thermophilusCS6
Authors: Zhou Yang , Cui Yanhua , Qu Xiaojun
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Food grade Streptococcus thermophilus produces biological exopolysaccharides (EPSs) with great potential with respect to catering for higher health‐promoting demands; however, how S. thermophilus regulates the biosynthesis of EPS is not completely understood, decelerating the application of these polymers. In our previous study, maltose, soy peptone and initial pH were three key factors of enhancing EPS yield in S. thermophilus CS6. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the regulating mechanisms of EPS biosynthesis in S. thermophilus CS6 via the method of comparative transcriptome and differential carbohydrate metabolism.

RESULTS

Soy peptone addition (58.6 g L−1) and a moderate pH (6.5) contributed to a high bacterial biomass and a high EPS yield (407 mg L−1). Maltose, soy peptone and initial pH greatly influenced lactose utilization in CS6. Soy peptone addition induced a high accumulation of mannose and arabinose in intracellular CS6, differential monosaccharide composition (mannose, glucose and arabinose) in EPS and high radical [2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl, superoxide and 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid)] scavenging activities. Carbohydrate transportation, sugar activation and eps cluster‐associated genes were differentially expressed to regulate EPS biosynthesis. Correlation analysis indicated high production of EPSs depended on high expression of lacS, galPMKUTE, pgm, gt2‐5&4‐1 and epsLM.

CONCLUSION

The production of antioxidant EPS in S. thermophilus CS6 depended on the regulation of galactose metabolism cluster and eps cluster. The present study recommends a new approach for enhancing EPS production by transcriptomic regulation for further food and health application of EPS. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Survey of Pediatric Otolaryngology Frenotomy Practice Patterns
Authors: Dhir Sanidhya , Landau Barcleigh P. , Edemobi Stefan , Meyer Anna K. , Durr Megan L.
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Assess current frenotomy practice patterns of pediatric otolaryngologists via a cross‐sectional survey.

Study Design

Survey study.

Methods

A 31‐question electronic survey assessing frenotomy practice patterns was distributed to all American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) members. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize responses and demographics of respondents.

Results

Of all ASPO members, 41% (240/588) completed the survey. Most respondents, 185 (77%), reported increased frenotomy referrals over the last 5 years and 144 (60%) described the current number of referrals as “too many.” The two primary lingual frenotomy indications identified in infants were: breastfeeding/nipple pain (92%) and inability to latch (83%). For older children, speech difficulty (87%) was the primary indication. Maxillary frenotomy indications in infants varied amongst respondents. For analgesia during in‐office frenotomy procedures, respondents used glucose/sucrose drops (48%), topical lidocaine (29%), or no pain control measure (27%). For post‐procedure care, respondents recommended continuing lactation support (45%), massaging/stretching the wound (38%), or none (40%). Most respondents, 143 (60%), reported having seen a complication from frenotomy, and the most reported frenotomy complications were frenulum re‐attachment and excessive bleeding.

Conclusions

In the last 5 years, otolaryngologists have seen an increase in referrals for frenotomy. Pediatric otolaryngologists have varying practice patterns with regards to ankyloglossia diagnosis and treatment. The reported indications for frenotomy varied amongst pediatric otolaryngologists especially with respect to maxillary frenotomy. Practice patterns also varied with respect to procedural pain control and frenotomy aftercare recommendations. More frenotomy research is needed to establish a standard of care for patients with ankyloglossia.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 132:2505–2512, 2022