bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sign Translation Via Natural Language Processing
Authors: Khan Shadman A. , Ansari Zulfikar Ali , Singh Riya , Rawat Mohit Singh , Khan Fiza Zafar , Yadav Shubham Kumar
Published: August 2021

Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are new technologies with new complicated features emerging quickly. Technology adoption has been beneficial for many general models. The models help in train the voice user-interface assistance (Alexa, Cortona, Siri). Voice assistants are easy to use, and thus millions of devices incorporate them in households nowadays. The primary purpose of the sign language translator prototype is to reduce interaction barriers between deaf and mute. To overcome this problem, we have proposed a prototype. It is named sign language translator with Sign Recognition Intelligence which takes the user input in sign language and processes it, and returns the output in voice out load to the end-user.
Land Resource Inventory (LRI) for Sustainable Watershed Development-A Case Study of Bisarahalli-1 Microwatershed of Semiarid Region of Koppal District, Karnataka, India
Authors: Niranjana K. V. , Kumar M. B. Mahendra , Hegde Rajendra , Seema K. V. , Dhanorkar B. A. , Srinivas S. , Srinivasan R.
Published: August 2021

A land resource inventory (LRI) of Bisarahalli-1 microwatershed was located in the central part of northern Karnataka in semiarid region of Koppal taluk and district. A case study was taken under Sujala III project sponsored by the Watershed Development Department of Karnataka and funded by the World Bank. The analysis and interpretation of the spatial and non-spatial database generated has revealed that most of the areas suffer from major problems. In most of the areas, very gently sloping and alkalinity affected even up to 80% of the microwatershed area followed by gravelly and low available water capacity, thus reducing the production potential and crop choices. The soils are either moderately or marginally suited for growing most of the agricultural and horticultural crops. By interfacing land resource data with Remote Sensing, GIS and GPS, different management scenarios were analysed to arrive at the best management alternatives (optimum land use plans) that would be most suitable. This data handling system will be useful for making land use decisions and providing proactive advice to farmers on a real time basis protecting the health of natural resources.
Effect of Different Mulches on the Biometric Performance of Cucumber Crop under Polyhouse
Authors: Goud B. Mukesh , Lakshmi Y. Siva , Prathyusha N. , Jayasri B.
Published: August 2021

The present study entitled “Effect of different mulches on the biometric performance of cucumber crop under polyhouse” was conducted during summer, 2019 at polyhouse, College of Agricultural Engineering, Kandi. Sangareddy, Telangana. Treatments consisted of five different mulches (White transparent, Black and silver, Black, Organic (paddy straw) and without mulch). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block with four replications. Growth parameters visually vine length and the number of leaves plant-1 differed significantly with different mulches and cucumber without mulch gave significantly higher growth parameters, followed by black and silver, black, white transparent whereas significantly lower growth parameters were recorded with organic mulch. The yield attributes visually the number of fruits plant-1, fruit length and fruit circumferences were significantly superior with cucumber without mulch whereas significantly lower yield attributes were observed in organic mulch. Fruit yield ha-1 was significantly higher with cucumber without mulch. Organic mulch recorded significantly lower fruit yield ha-1. Gross and net returns were higher with cucumber without mulch whereas significantly lower gross and net returns were observed in organic mulch. The highest benefit-cost ratio was observed with cucumber without mulch whereas the lowest benefit-cost ratio was observed with white transparent mulch. The study has shown that cucumber can be grown without any mulch during the summer season under polyhouse at Central Telangana Zone of Telangana.
Distribution of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Surface Water and Fishes in Bodo/Bonny River Nigeria
Authors: Ogbonna David N. , Origbe Matthew E.
Published: August 2021

Several industrial activities around the Niger Delta region have contributed to the widespread contamination of marine ecosystems with organochlorine compounds (OCs), petroleum products that are a source of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These pollutants tend to be persistent in the environment and are also often highly toxic to the biota. The study was therefore, aimed at determining the concentrations of organic pollutants (PAHS) in the Bodo/Bonny coastal waters and their effect on the marine ecosystems. This is exacerbated by the risks posed by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in oil spilled environments. Surface water, sediment and fish samples were collected from different sampling stations along the river and analyzed using standard analytical methods. Sampling of surface water was done on Link fish pond which served as control. The results of the value of TPH ranged from 0.31 to 40.85 mg/l, PAHs range from 2.06 to 2.73 mg/l and BTEX ranged from 0.043 to 0.081 mg/l. The Total Petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) values obtained were above DPR permissible Limit of 20 mg/l in all the stations. However, values of individual polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons show that Benzo(a) anthracene had the highest concentration especially in all the surface water stations sampled. Also results showed a presence of carcinogenic PAHs in the fish tissues. This still poses a danger if accumulation was to take place over a long period of time. The values obtained from this study stations also exceeded the WHO quality criteria for drinking, aquatic life support and recreation. This reveals that Bodo/Bonny River is under pollution threat and underscore the need for early remediation if adverse health defects are to be prevented.
Histological Effect of Allium sativum (Garlic) on the Liver of White Rabbits
Authors: Olayemi Osuloye Oluwaseum , Omotola Olojo Oluwatobi , Abutu Philip
Published: August 2021

Allium sativum commonly referred to as garlic has been known over the years for its medicinal and culinary purposes. It has also been reported to have several toxic effects when used excessively. However, the purpose of this study was to determine the histological effects of Allium sativum (garlic) powder on the liver of white rabbits at different dosages. Twenty rabbits were randomly divided int.o five groups with free access to food and water for a period of four weeks. Four groups B, C, D, and E were fed with garlic supplemented basal diet containing different concentrations of garlic powder i.e. 100mg, 200mg, 500mg, and 1000mg respectively. These groups were called the treated group. Group A was fed with basal diet only and was considered as the control group. The results obtained showed some histological changes such as the presence of cellular necrosis, vacuolations, lipofuscin pigments, pyknosis and nuclear hypertrophy which were as a result of liver glycogen depletion and hepatic cell damage which may be due to relatively high dosage of garlic used in some of the groups.
Response of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes against Collar Rot Disease Caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc.
Authors: Babariya Vishruta D. , Nath Kedar
Published: August 2021

Aims: Collar rot is a fast spreading and destructive disease and is becoming more serious at seedling stage causing rot at collar region especially in area where paddy based cropping system is followed. Lack of sources of resistant in present cultivar against Sclerotium rolfsii cause serious threat to chickpea production. Therefore, the present study was carried out to evaluate the chickpea genotypes against S. rolfsii to the identification of resistant sources for further breeding program.

Study Design: Randomized Block Design (RBD) with two replications were used.

Place and Duration of Study: Regional Rice Research Station, Navsari Agricultural University, Vyara, between October 2019 to April 2020.

Methodology: Pathogen was isolated from infected collar region of chickpea plant by directly transfer of sclerotia and infected bits on potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium. After purification, pathogen was identified by observed the colony character and sclerotia formation. The morphological characters viz., mycelial growth and mycelial characteristic were studied under high power magnification (40X) and sclerotia formation, shape and colour were studied under low power magnification (10X) from 10 days old culture. 39 chickpea genotypes were used for the studies. A field experiment was conducted during Rabi -2019-20 season. The inoculum was thoroughly broadcasted in soil @ 10g/ row. Germination per cent and disease incidence were observed.

Results: Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) collar rot disease caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. was exhibited initial white fluffy mycelium appearance on potato dextrose agar medium. Microscopic view of mycelium was hyaline, branching, compact with septate and had a clamp connection. White sclerotia were formed after 4th days of incubation and later within 10 days after incubation it became mature and colour changed from brown to dark brown. Sclerotia appeared shiny due to presence of gummy material. Out of 39 chickpea genotypes only five viz., GJG-1713, GG-6, GJG-1509, Phule Vikram and JGK-1 were identified as moderate resistant against collar rot disease caused by S. rolfsii under inoculums inoculated rice fellow cropping system.

Conclusion: Chickpea genotypes viz., GJG-1713, GG-6, GJG-1509, Phule Vikram and JGK-1 were showed moderate resistant reaction against collar rot disease caused by S. rolfsii.
Active Airframe Vibration Control Simulations of Lift-offset Compound Helicopters in High-Speed Flights
Authors: Hong Sung-Boo , Kwon Young-Min , Kim Ji-Su , Lee Yu-Been , Park Byeong-Hyeon , Shin Hyun-Cheol , Park Jae-Sang
Published: August 2021

This paper studies the simulations of active airframe vibration controls for the Sikorsky X2 helicopter with a lift-offset coaxial rotor. The 4P hub vibratory loads of the X2TD rotor are obtained from the previous work using a rotorcraft comprehensive analysis code, CAMRAD II. The finite element analysis software, MSC.NASTRAN, is used to model the structural dynamics of the X2TD airframe and to analyze the 4P vibration responses of the airframe. A simulation study using Active Vibration Control System(AVCS) with Fx-LMS algorithm to reduce the airframe vibrations is conducted. The present AVCS is modeled using MATLAB Simulink. When AVCS is applied to the X2TD airframe at 250 knots, the 4P longitudinal and vertical vibration responses at the specified airframe positions, such as the pilot seat, co-pilot seat, engine deck, and prop gearbox, are reduced by 30.65 ~ 94.12 %.
Independent PRF Generation and Control for Frequency Phase Calibration on Mono-pulse Radar at a Remote Location
Authors: Yang Jaewon , Yoo Seungoh , Yoon Jaehyuk , Lee Dongju
Published: August 2021

This paper presents a method of independent pulse repetition frequency(PRF) generation and control for frequency phase calibration on mono-pulse radar at a remote location. In order to generate an independent PRF signal of 320[Hz], pulse width modulation(PWM) of 16-bit timer/counter was applied. For a precision control of PRF signal, 16-bit timer/counter interrupt was changed for each period. Therefore, average frequency of PRF could be controlled by 0.0001[Hz]. To calibrate a frequency phase of mono-pulse radar at a remote location, the proposed PRF generator with a precision control of frequency was used regardless of receiving PRF signal from a radar. For the verification of the proposed PRF generator, theoretical analysis and experimental results are included.
Performance Analysis on Depth and Straight Motion Control based on Control Surface Combinations for Supercavitating Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Yu Beomyeol , Mo Hyemin , Kim Seungkeun , Hwang Jong-Hyon , Park Jeong-Hoon , Jeon Yun-Ho
Published: August 2021

This study describes the depth and straight motion control performance depending on control surface combinations of a supercavitating underwater vehicle. When an underwater vehicle experiences supercavitation, friction resistance can be minimized, thus achieving the effect of super-high-speed driving. Six degrees of freedom modeling of the underwater vehicle are performed and the guidance and control loops are designed with not only a cavitator and an elevator, but also a rudder and a differential elevator to improve the stability of the roll and yaw axis. The control performance based on the combination of control surfaces is analyzed by the root-mean-square error for keeping depth and straight motion.
Influence of post‐appreciation environment on the memory of visual art ‐toward an impressive exhibition planning at museums
Authors: Kim Dukwoo , Yokoyama Yurika
Published: August 2021

In this study, we focus on the environment at the museum after the appreciation of art. We conducted an experiment, in which participants were instructed to watch short films and then perform one out of three activities (Activity ‐ A: Sitting, B: Walking, C: Talking quietly with the experimenter). According to the latent memory test following each activity, the participants recalled the content in elaborate detail after either sitting calmly (A) or walking (B) rather than after talking (C). This proved that even though the content is the same, the depth of the impression varies according to the activity performed after the appreciation.
More severe stress markers in the teeth of flanged versus unflanged orangutans (Pongo spp.)
Authors: Kralick Alexandra E. , McGrath Kate
Published: August 2021

Objectives

We compared an early life stress indicator, linear enamel hypoplasia (LEH), in the canine teeth of two male orangutan (Pongo spp.) morphs. Flanged males have large bi‐discoid cheek pads and a laryngeal throat pouch, and they exhibit either the same or higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol throughout development compared with unflanged males, which lack secondary sexual characteristics. Such “developmental arrest” is hypothesized to either reflect a response to experienced high stress (Hypothesis 1), or an adaptation to avoid elevated stress levels and/or having experienced lower stress levels (Hypothesis 2) during early life. As LEH defect depth has been shown to reflect the severity (i.e., intensity and/or duration) of early life stress events, we examined whether unflanged males have shallower LEH defects than flanged males.

Materials and methods

Flanging status was assessed by measuring the faces of preserved skins. Canine height (N = 37) was measured in the same individuals to assess commonality between morphs. LEH defect depths were analyzed using a standardized confocal profilometry method (N = 34).

Results

Flanged males have significantly deeper LEH defects than unflanged adult males. Canine projected crown heights are similar across males regardless of morph.

Conclusions

Evidence from great apes shows that, when comparing canines with similar growth patterns, deeper defects reflect more severe stress events during development. Thus, our results suggest that “developmental arrest” of unflanged males is not a response to having experienced stress, but rather an adaptation to avoid the physiological impacts associated with chronic stress and/or experiencing lower stress levels.
2D Silicate Materials for Composite Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Tang Hui , Sun Mingxuan , Wang Chengliang
Published: August 2021

Two‐dimensional (2D) silicate materials have become one of the promising candidates for constructing composite polymer electrolytes due to their advantages of low cost, high stability, good mechanical property, high ionic conductivity and potential to inhibit the growth of lithium dendrites. However, the application of 2D silicate materials in composite polymer electrolytes (CPEs) is still at the infancy stage and facing a lot of challenges. In this minireview, we summarize the structures and properties of 2D silicate materials that have been applied in CPEs, the processing methods of composite electrolytes based on 2D silicates, and the recent process of 2D silicate materials in CPEs. We hope this review could present a general overview of the 2D silicates for CPEs and promote the further study for potential applications.
Effect of Lewis Basic Amine Site on Proton Reduction Activity of NNN‐Co Pincer Complex
Authors: Song Seungjin , Cho Jaewhan , Jo Hyeonjeong , Lee Junseong , Choi Jun‐Ho , Seo Junhyeok
Published: August 2021

Electrochemical proton reduction is a promising energy storage method because H2 molecule has a simple structure with a relatively low potential energy. Current interest in hydrogen catalysts has increased research efforts on synthetic analogs of hydrogenase active sites. In this study, we demonstrated the electrochemical H2 evolution reactivity of [NNNR‐Co(CH3CN)3]2+ (R  CH2 (1b), NCH3 (2b)) complexes and examined a proton‐relay process in the H2 evolution reaction (HER). Upon one‐electron reduction, the Co(II) ion center in a high‐spin state dissociated a CH3CN ligand, while opening a reaction site. Cyclic voltammograms of the Co complexes indicated quasi‐reversible Co(II/I) redox behaviors, and both complexes 1b and 2b showed catalytic H2 evolution activity. Interestingly, 2b, assisted by a proton‐relaying NCH3 group, exhibited more efficient catalytic activity than 1b.
Newborn anatomy
Authors: Vilensky Joel A. , Suárez‐Quian Carlos A.
Published: August 2021

Newborn anatomy, despite being distinctly different than adult anatomy, does not constitute a major component of a typical medical school course in gross anatomy. Accordingly, there is a perception that other than the well‐known late 20th‐century atlas and small textbook by Edmund Crelin on newborn anatomy, there is almost no information available for anatomists and clinicians to refer to on normal infant anatomy. This perception, as verbalized by Crelin in his books, is not correct. There is an amazing wealth of accurate descriptive and pictorial information on infant anatomy available from late 19th‐ and early 20th‐century sources. One of these sources is a comprehensive 200‐page chapter on pediatric anatomy by Richard Scammon that was published in 1923 and that is freely available. Because of some inconsistencies and inaccuracies we have identified in the Crelin works, we suggest that any anatomist or clinician who wishes to learn and teach about infant anatomy refer to Scammon's chapter before using any text or image from the Crelin books.
Predicting the immune landscape of invasive breast carcinoma based on the novel signature of immune‐related lncRNA
Authors: Shen Shuang , Chen Xin , Hu Xiaochi , Huo Jinlong , Luo Libo , Zhou Xuezhi
Published: August 2021

Background

The composition of the population of immune‐related long non‐coding ribonucleic acid (irlncRNA) generates a signature, irrespective of expression level, with potential value in predicting the survival status of patients with invasive breast carcinoma.

Methods

The current study uses univariate analysis to identify differentially expressed irlncRNA (DEirlncRNA) pairs from RNA‐Seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). 36 pairs of DEirlncRNA pairs were identified. Using various algorithms to construct a model, we have compared the area under the curve and calculated the 5‐year curve of Akaike information criterion (AIC) values, which allows determination of the threshold indicating the maximum value for differentiation. Through cut‐off point to establish the optimal model for distinguishing high‐risk or low‐risk groups among breast cancer patients. We assigned individual patients with invasive breast cancer to either high risk or low risk groups depending on the cut‐off point, re‐evaluated the tumor immune cell infiltration, the effectiveness of chemotherapy, immunosuppressive biomarkers, and immunotherapy.

Results

After re‐assessing patients according to the threshold, we demonstrated an effective means of distinguish the severity of the disease, and identified patients with different clinicopathological characteristics, specific tumor immune infiltration states, high sensitivity to chemotherapy,wellpredicted response to immunotherapy and thus a more favorable survival outcome.

Conclusions

The current study presents novel findings regarding the use of irlncRNA without the need to predict precise expression levels in the prognosis of breast cancer patients and to indicate their suitability for anti‐tumor immunotherapy.
Application of Artificial Neural Networks in the Tertiary Treatment of Liquid Effluent with the Microalgae Chlorella vulgaris
Authors: Carvalho Yasmin O. , Oliveira> Weverton V. , Pagano Rogério L. , Silva Cristina F.
Published: August 2021

Modeling of biotechnological processes is difficult due to their nonlinear characteristics. Therefore, an artificial neural network was developed as a viable option for the prediction of the main variables of the tertiary treatment with Chlorella vulgaris. The network was designed with a hyperbolic tangent activation function and trained using a set of experimental and simulated data. The Levenberg‐Marquardt algorithm was used to train the network; four input neurons (luminosity, ammonium ion, phosphate, and initial biomass concentrations) and two output neurons (ammonium ion and phosphate concentrations) were fixed. The network architecture with one hidden layer [4,7,2] was chosen because it presented the lowest mean square error of the test combined with high R2, indicating that the network provides a good model for use in real applications.
Disparities in phase 1 cancer clinical trial enrollment
Authors: Perni Subha , Moy Beverly , Nipp Ryan D.
Published: August 2021

Background

Phase 1 trials are increasingly important in the molecularly driven era of oncology, but few studies have examined phase 1 participation disparities. The authors of this study investigated factors associated with phase 1 versus phase 2/3 trial enrollment.

Methods

They authors conducted a cross‐sectional study using serial samples of patients age ≥18 years enrolling on cancer trials from October 2011 to November 2014 at an academic cancer center. They used univariable and multivariable logistic regression models to analyze sociodemographic and clinical associations with phase 1 versus phase 2/3 trial enrollment.

Results

Among 3103 patients enrolled in cancer trials, 2657 unique patients participated in phase 1/2/3 trials. For patients enrolled in phase 1 (n = 1401) versus phase 2/3 (n = 1256) trials, we found no significant differences by age, insurance status, marital status, and income. Overall, 1216 (93%) White, 72 (6%) Asian, and 21 (2%) Black patients enrolled on phase 1 trials, whereas 1068 (93%) White, 40 (3%) Asian, and 43 (4%) Black patients enrolled on phase 2/3 trials. Adjusting for age, sex, race, ethnicity, insurance status, marital status, income, cancer type, disease status, travel distance, and trial year, compared with White patients, Black patients had lower phase 1 enrollment (odds ratio [OR], 0.46; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.25‐0.82), as did Hispanic/Latino (OR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.08‐0.79) and male patients (OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.62‐0.94). Asian patients had higher phase 1 enrollment (OR, 1.38; 95% CI, 0.88‐2.16).

Conclusions

Disparities in phase 1 versus phase 2/3 cancer clinical trial enrollment underscore the urgent need for interventions addressing inequities in early‐phase trial participation.

Lay Summary

Phase 1 trials are of increasing importance in oncology.

The authors of the study analyzed all patients enrolling on cancer clinical trials at a large academic cancer center from October 2011 to November 2014.

Among the 2657 trial participants, when age, sex, race, ethnicity, insurance status, marital status, income, cancer type, disease status, travel distance, and trial year were taken into account, Black, Hispanic/Latino, and male patients were less likely to enroll on phase 1 trials versus phase 2/3 trials.

These findings suggest a need for targeted interventions to improve access to and education about phase 1 trials for Black and Hispanic/Latino patients.
Reinforcement learning using fully connected, attention, and transformer models in knapsack problem solving
Authors: Yildiz Beytullah
Published: August 2021

Knapsack is a combinatorial optimization problem that involves a variety of resource allocation challenges. It is defined as non‐deterministic polynomial time (NP) hard and has a wide range of applications. Knapsack problem (KP) has been studied in applied mathematics and computer science for decades. Many algorithms that can be classified as exact or approximate solutions have been proposed. Under the category of exact solutions, algorithms such as branch‐and‐bound and dynamic programming and the approaches obtained by combining these algorithms can be classified. Due to the fact that exact solutions require a long processing time, many approximate methods have been introduced for knapsack solution. In this research, deep Q‐learning using models containing fully connected layers, attention, and transformer as function estimators were used to provide the solution for KP. We observed that deep Q‐networks, which continued their training by observing the reward signals provided by the knapsack environment we developed, optimized the total reward gained over time. The results showed that our approaches give near‐optimum solutions and work about 40 times faster than an exact algorithm using dynamic programming.
Optimization of Monomer Molecular Structure for Polymer Electrodes Fabricated through in‐situ Electro‐Polymerization Strategy
Authors: Wang Zhuanping , Yang Jixing , Chen Zifeng , Ye Long , Xu Yunhua
Published: August 2021

In‐situ electro‐polymerization of redox‐active monomers has been proved to be a novel and facile strategy to prepare polymer electrodes with superior electrochemical performance. The monomer molecular structure would have a profound impact on electro‐polymerization behavior and thus electrochemical performance. However, this impact is poorly understood and has barely been investigated yet. Herein, three carbazole‐based monomers, 9‐phenylcarbazole (CB), 1,4‐bis(carbazol‐9‐yl)benzene (DCB), and 2,6‐bis(carbazol‐9‐yl)naphthalene (DCN), were applied to study the above issue systematically and achieve excellent long cycle performance. The monomers were rationally designed with different polymerizable sites and solubilities. It was found that a monomer with increased polymerizable sites and decreased solubility brought about enhanced electrochemical performance. This is because poor solubility could enhance utilization of the monomer for polymerization and more polymerizable sites could lead to a stable crosslinked polymer network after electro‐polymerization. DCN with four polymerizable sites and the poorest solubility displayed the best electrochemical performance, which showed stable cycling up to 5000 cycles with high capacity retention of 76.2 % (among the best cycle in the literature). Our work for the first time reveals the relationship between monomer structure and in‐situ electro‐polymerization behavior. This work could shed light on the structure design/optimization of monomers for high‐performance polymer electrodes prepared through in‐situ electro‐polymerization.
Analysis of plasma sheath propagation attenuation based on ray tracing
Authors: Zhou Junyang , Han Yiping
Published: August 2021

Based on the complex Snell's law of lossy media, a ray tracing method is proposed to study the propagation attenuation characteristics of electromagnetic (EM) waves in plasma sheaths. The plasma sheath is modelled as layered media. This method considers the complex ray characteristics of inhomogeneous plane EM waves, tracks the propagation rays of EM waves in each layer of media, and calculates the propagation attenuation of EM waves in each layer of media according to the propagation direction of the complex rays. The attenuation during numerical cumulative propagation is the total attenuation of EM waves through the plasma sheath. By comparing the results with that obtained from the WKB method, the accuracy of the ray tracing algorithm is proved. The results of the propagation attenuation of a blunt cone model are calculated by the proposed method, and the effects of different parameters on the EM wave propagation attenuation in the plasma sheath are analysed at different heights, velocities, incident angles, and incident positions. Studying the propagation characteristics of EM waves in the plasma sheath is of importance in application for radar target tracking, blackout communication, and other issues.
Empirical analyses of the factors influencing fire severity in southeastern Australia
Authors: Lindenmayer David , Taylor Chris , Blanchard Wade
Published: August 2021

Fire severity is a key component of fire regimes, and understanding the factors affecting it is critical given the increasing incidence of wildfires globally. We quantified the factors affecting the severity of the 2019–2020 fires in Victoria, southeastern Australia. We constructed statistical models of relationships between fire severity (as reflected by two measures: Crown Burn and the composite measure of Crown Burn/Crown Scorch) and the main and interacting effects of five key covariates: fire progression zone (reflecting fire weather), time since previous major disturbance in the forest, forest type, slope, and aspect. The best supported models for the probability of a Crown Burn and the probability of a Crown Burn/Crown Scorch contained evidence of a three‐way interaction between fire weather, forest type, and time since previous major disturbance as well as two‐way interactions between (1) fire weather and slope, and (2) fire weather and aspect. There was an increase in the probability of Crown Burn and Crown Burn/Crown Scorch under more extreme fire weather in all forest types, with the effect especially elevated in dry forest. Our analyses also revealed a range of response curve shapes for the relationships between time since previous major disturbance and fire severity relationships and these varied by fire weather classes and forest type. Under severe fire weather conditions, we found that relationships between time since previous major disturbance and fire severity relationships often exhibited non‐linear, negative polynomial shape with a peak around 10–40 yr, especially for Crown Burn, although there also were instances of this distinctive curve shape in our Crown Burn/Crown Scorch fire severity analysis. Our analyses also contained strong evidence that fire severity was higher on steeper slopes and on more exposed northerly aspects under extreme fire weather. Our analyses suggest that forests managed for timber production near settlements may be at increased risk of high‐severity fire. This is because logging resets stand age to zero, after which there is a subsequent period of increased probability of high‐severity fire, particularly under extreme fire weather conditions. Therefore, policies to maintain cover of older forest near settlements should be considered.
Hierarchical Co3Se4 Nanoparticles Encapsulated in a Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Framework Intertwined with Carbon Nanotubes as Anode of Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Zhuo , Hu Xianwei , Shi Zhongning , Wang Zhaowen , Lu Jinlin
Published: August 2021

Transition metal selenides (TMSes) are regarded as ideal anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) due to their high theoretical capacity, but some defects, such as volume expansion and poor conductivity, still need to be overcome. The design of hierarchical structural materials with compositional and structural complexity is extremely attractive in the field of energy conversion. Herein, a core–shell hierarchical polyhedral Co3Se4 with N‐doped and carbon nanotubes intertwined (N‐Co3Se4@C‐CNTs) is synthesized using a facile metal–organic framework (MOFs) self‐templating strategy and selenization treatment. The Co3Se4 nanoparticles can be confined in the multilocular and hollow carbon framework intertwined with CNTs. Benefiting from the unique structure and composition superiority, the synthesized N‐Co3Se4@C‐CNTs exhibit excellent Li storage performance. Specifically, they present a high reversible capacity of 820 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 after 100 cycles and outstanding cycling stability (558 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1 after 1000 cycles). In addition, a LiCoO2‖N‐Co3Se4@C‐CNT full cell is successfully constructed to show its potential for practical application. The reaction kinetics and Li storage mechanisms of the N‐Co3Se4@C‐CNT electrode are investigated to explain the impressive electrochemical performance. This work reveals the great application potential of the N‐Co3Se4@C‐CNT electrode in constructing advanced LIBs.
Pharmacological inhibition of mitochondrial soluble adenylyl cyclase in astrocytes causes activation of AMP‐activated protein kinase and induces breakdown of glycogen
Authors: Jakobsen Emil , Andersen Jens V. , Christensen Sofie K. , Siamka Olga , Larsen Martin R. , Waagepetersen Helle S. , Aldana Blanca I. , Bak Lasse K.
Published: August 2021

Mobilization of astrocyte glycogen is key for processes such as synaptic plasticity and memory formation but the link between neuronal activity and glycogen breakdown is not fully known. Activation of cytosolic soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC) in astrocytes has been suggested to link neuronal depolarization and glycogen breakdown partly based on experiments employing pharmacological inhibition of sAC. However, several studies have revealed that sAC located within mitochondria is a central regulator of respiration and oxidative phosphorylation. Thus, pharmacological sAC inhibition is likely to affect both cytosolic and mitochondrial sAC and if bioenergetic readouts are studied, the observed effects are likely to stem from inhibition of mitochondrial rather than cytosolic sAC. Here, we report that a pharmacologically induced inhibition of sAC activity lowers mitochondrial respiration, induces phosphorylation of the metabolic master switch AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), and decreases glycogen stores in cultured primary murine astrocytes. From these data and our discussion of the literature, mitochondrial sAC emerges as a key regulator of astrocyte bioenergetics. Lastly, we discuss the challenges of investigating the functional and metabolic roles of cytosolic versus mitochondrial sAC in astrocytes employing the currently available pharmacological tool compounds.
Living in rural area: A protective factor for a negative experience of the lockdown and the COVID‐19 crisis in the oldest old population?
Authors: Pérès Karine , Ouvrard Camille , Koleck Michèle , Rascle Nicole , Dartigues Jean‐François , Bergua Valérie , Amieva Hélène
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Some factors influence the experience of the COVID‐19 pandemic (health, loneliness, digital access...), but what about the living area? The objective was to compare between rural and urban areas, the psychological and social experiences of the older individuals with regard to the COVID‐19 crisis during the first French lockdown.

Methods

The sample included participants of three existing population‐based cohorts on aging. Telephone interviews conducted by psychologists focused on the lockdown period. Data collected included living environment, professional assistance, social support, contacts with relatives, difficulties encountered, health, and knowledge and representations of the epidemic. The negative experience was defined by the presence of at least two of the following items: high anxiety symptomatology, depressive symptoms, worries or difficulties during the lockdown and insufficient social support.

Results

The sample included 467 participants, aged on average 87.5 years (5.2), 58.9% were female and 47.1% lived in rural areas. Persons living in rural area had better social support, greater family presence, a less frequent feeling of imprisonment (OR = 0.60, 95 CI% = 0.36‐0.99), 95% had a garden (vs. 56%), fewer depressive symptoms and lower anxiety scores, but also tended to lower comply with the health measures. Finally, they had an almost twofold lower risk of having a negative experience of the lockdown compared to their urban counterparts (OR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.33–0.92, p = 0.0223).

Conclusions

The oldest old living in rural area experienced the first lockdown better than the urbans. Living conditions, with access to nature, a greater social support and family presence, could have contributed to these findings.
Effectiveness and safety of non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants in patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation: A nationwide, population‐based study in Korea
Authors: Han Seongwook , Han Sola , Suh Hae Sun , Bang Oh Young , On Young Keun , Lee Myung‐Yong , Jang Sung‐Won , Won Mi‐Mi , Park Yoo‐Jung , Lee Ji‐Min , Kang Seongsik , Kim Young‐Hoon
Published: August 2021

Background

To compare the risk of stroke/systemic embolism (S/SE) and major bleeding (MB) between non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), this retrospective study was conducted using the Korean Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service (HIRA) claims database.

Methods

Patients with AF who initiated NOACs (apixaban, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban) from July 1, 2015 to November 30, 2016 were included. We applied inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) method using propensity score to make weighted populations having similar characteristics between groups. Hazard ratio (HR) of S/SE and MB were estimated by Cox proportional hazard model.

Results

Of the 39 783 patients with AF, 10 564; 11 418; and 17 801 used apixaban, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban, respectively. The mean CHA2DS2‐VASc and HAS‐BLED scores were 4.59 ~ 4.69 and 3.58 ~ 3.62, respectively, among all patients after applying IPTW. For S/SE, there were no significant differences between NOACs (HR [95% confidence interval (CI)]): apixaban vs dabigatran (0.99 [0.87‐1.13]), apixaban vs rivaroxaban (0.95 [0.84‐1.07]), and dabigatran vs rivaroxaban (0.96 [0.85‐1.08]). For MB (HR [95% CI]), both apixaban (0.77 [0.68‐0.86]) and dabigatran (0.88 [0.79‐0.98]) had a significantly lower risk compared with rivaroxaban. Apixaban also had a significantly lower risk of MB compared with dabigatran (0.87 [0.76‐0.99]).

Conclusions

In real‐world practice among Korean AF patients with relatively high risk of stroke and bleeding, there were no significant differences in the risk of S/SE between all NOAC comparisons. Apixaban was associated with lower risk of MB than dabigatran and rivaroxaban.
Antimicrobial activity of sophorolipids produced by Starmerella bombicola against phytopathogens from cherry tomato
Authors: de O Caretta Talita , I Silveira Victória A , Andrade Galdino , Macedo Fernando , P C Celligoi Maria Antonia
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Phytopathogenic microorganisms are the main cause of plant diseases, generating significant economic losses for the agricultural and food supply chain. Cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) are very perishable plants and highly demanding in the use of pesticides; therefore, alternative solutions such as biosurfactants have aroused as a potent substituent. The main objective of the present study was to investigate the antimicrobial activity of sophorolipids against the phytopathogens Botrytis cinerea, Sclerotium rolfsii, Rhizoctonia solani and Pythium ultimum.

RESULTS

The biosurfactant inhibited the mycelial growth in vitro with a minimum concentration of 2 mg mL−1. The application of sophorolipids at 1, 2 and 4 mg mL−1 in detached leaves of tomato before the inoculation of the fungus B. cinerea was the best treatment, reducing leaf necrosis by up to 76.90%. The use of sophorolipids for washing tomato fruits before the inoculation of B. cinerea was able to inhibit the development of gray mold by up to 96.27%.

CONCLUSION

The results for tomato leaves and fruits revealed that the biosurfactant acts more effectively when used preventively. Sophorolipids are stable molecules that show promising action for the potential replacement of pesticides in the field and the post‐harvest process against the main tomato phytopathogens. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Technical Considerations in Pedicle Management in Upper and Midfacial Free Flap Reconstruction
Authors: Swendseid Brian , Stewart Matthew , Mastrolonardo Eric , McCreary Eleanor , Heffelfinger Ryan , Luginbuhl Adam , Sweeny Larissa , Wax Mark K. , Curry Joseph
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Mid and upper face free flaps frequently are associated with challenges due to pedicle length. We sought to evaluate the frequency at which alternative pedicle maneuvers were required for these reconstructions and determine if there was any association with flap survival or postoperative complications.

Study Design

Retrospective review at three tertiary care institutions.

Methods

Database review.

Results

Free flap reconstruction of the upper and midface was performed in 295 patients (108 bony, 187 soft tissue). In 82% of cases, the vessels reached the ipsilateral neck for anastomosis to traditional target vessels. Arterial grafts were required in 2% of reconstructions (4% bony and 1% soft tissue). Venous grafting was required in 7% of reconstructions (21% fibula, 16% scapula, and 3% soft tissue) and was associated with an increase in flap failure rate (19% vs 3%, P = .003). The most common recipient artery for revascularization was the cervical facial artery (78%). Alternate recipient vessels were selected in 13% of cases, including the superficial temporal vessels (7%), distal facial branches through a separate facial incision (4%), and angular vessels (2%). Vein grafting was associated with a higher flap failure rate. Alternative maneuvers did not affect need for intraoperative pedicle revision or complications.

Conclusions

In upper and midface reconstruction, vascular grafting, targeting more distal branches of the facial system, or additional maneuvers to optimize pedicle orientation is often required to secure revascularization. Vein grafting is associated with a higher free flap failure rate. Scapular border flaps often require vascular grafting or atypical anastomotic locations.

Level of Evidence

3—Non randomized cohort study 4 Laryngoscope, 131:2465–2470, 2021
Attitudes and beliefs of older adults with acute low back pain: 12‐month results from the Brazilian cohort back complaints in the elders
Authors: Teixeira Luiza Faria , Diz Juliano Bergamaschine Mata , Moreira Bruno de Souza , Silva Silvia Lanziotti Azevedo da , Dias João Marcos Domingues , Pereira Leani Souza Máximo , Dias Rosângela Corrêa
Published: August 2021

Background

Psychosocial factors have been identified as important predictors of onset, course and persistence of low back pain (LBP) in the general population.

Objective

To identify factors associated with attitudes/beliefs in older adults with LBP throughout a 12‐month follow‐up.

Methods

A longitudinal investigation was conducted with 500 participants aged ≥60 years reporting a new (acute) episode of nonspecific LBP. Data were obtained at baseline, 6‐week, 3‐, 6‐, 9‐, and 12‐month interviews. The study variables were: [dependent] LBP‐related attitudes/beliefs that were assessed by the Back Beliefs Questionnaire (BBQ); [independent] age; sex; LBP intensity ‘at‐the‐present‐time’ of interview and ‘over‐the‐past‐week’ before interview; LBP frequency; LBP‐related treatments; disability; mobility; depressive symptoms; self‐perceived recovery; expectation of pain improvement; and expectation for returning to activities. Data were analysed by multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

At baseline, 85.7% of the participants were female, had mean age of 69.0 (6.3) years, mean BBQ score of 24.5 (6.5), and 79.6% reported pain complaints after an acute episode of LBP. After 12 months, participants maintained a mean BBQ score of 24.6 (6.6) and 63.3% still reported pain complaints after an acute episode of LBP at baseline. Multivariate analysis showed that disability, advancing age, poor expectation of pain improvement in 3 months, and mobility decline were significantly associated with worse BBQ scores during all follow‐ups.

Conclusion

Ageing, hopelessness, and physical and functional impairment impact pain‐related behaviours among older patients seeking healthcare due to acute LBP complaints. Their screening may assist in strategies to manage symptoms and prevent the persistence of pain.
Transcranial direct current stimulation reduces ischemia‐induced sensory disturbance in the hands of healthy subjects
Authors: Sunagawa Toru , Ueda Akio , Kurumadani Hiroshi , Zehry Hanan Ibrahim , Date Shota , Ishii Yosuke
Published: August 2021

Introduction/Aims

The treatment of entrapment neuropathies, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome, has significant challenges that have yet to be solved. To a large extent, the success of the treatment of peripheral nerve damage is dependent on brain plasticity during the recovery process. Recently, noninvasive brain stimulation procedures, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), to modulate brain activity have been developed. This study aimed to determine whether tDCS can improve artificially induced ischemic sensory disturbances in the finger.

Methods

Ten right‐handed, healthy volunteers, with an average age of 25.5 years, participated in this study. A rubber bandage at the base of the right index finger was used to induce a regional sensory disturbance for 30 minutes. An anodal tDCS was applied over their left M1 area 15 minutes into the session. The current perception threshold (CPT) in the index and little finger pad was evaluated using the PainVision system and used as a measure of the sensory threshold.

Results

In the index finger, the CPT increased significantly with time, a finding that was absent after tDCS application.

Discussion

It has been reported that anodal tDCS over M1 primarily modulates the functional connectivity of sensory networks, and our findings demonstrate that it improved ischemia‐induced sensory disturbances. Modulating the central nervous system using tDCS represents a potential avenue for treating entrapment neuropathies.
The Effect of First Feeding Exposure of Larval Largemouth Bass to a Formulated Soybean Meal-Based or Soy Saponin-Supplemented Diet on Fish Growth Performance and Gut Microbiome
Authors: Kwasek Karolina , Wojno Michal , Patula Samuel , Oliaro Frank , Cabay Chrissy , Pinnell Lee J.
Published: August 2021

The negative effects of dietary soybean meal (SBM) can be counteracted with the use of nutritional programming (NP). Nutritional programming is an early feeding event during larval or juvenile stages that can alter physiological responses of the fish later in their life. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of introducing diets containing SBM or soy saponin to larval Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides on growth performance and gut microbiome composition of the fish in their pre-adult stage.The study found that NP introduced with a formulated SBM diet or dietary saponin for 21 d during the larval stages did not improve SBM utilization and growth performance in the pre-adult age, which likely resulted from poor utilization of dry feeds in Largemouth Bass during first feeding. Our study also found that NP with an SBM diet or dietary saponin did not have any significant effects on the Largemouth Bass gut microbiome, and there did not seem to be any gut microbiome modification associated with NP. However, age-related changes in the gut microbiome were documented.