bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large‐Area Transient Conductive Films Obtained through Photonic Sintering of 2D Materials
Authors: Huo Wenxing , Zhang Zi'an , Wang Zilun , Wu Ziyue , Li Jiameng , Chai Yang , Huang Xian
Published: July 2021

Transient electronics that can chemically or physically disappear after a period of stable operation have been achieved through various metal and semiconductor materials. Despite excellent properties and wide availability of 2D materials and van der Waals (vdW) thin‐film electronics, transient films and devices based on them have rarely been reported, not to mention large‐area production with high throughput. Here, a photonic sintering approach is developed to achieve large‐area transient vdW films that may be used for bioresorbable devices. The approach can process 2D materials such as graphite, graphene, and transition metal sulfide, resulting in continuous films that are 10 × 10 cm2 in area and ≈60 to ≈440 nm in thickness on transient substrates. The influence of interfacial adhesion and sintering conditions to the thickness and the electrical properties of transient graphite films is investigated. In addition, the transient films can yield conductive patterns such as biopotential electrodes, interdigital electrodes, and resistor arrays using complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) fabrication processes or a two‐step sintering method. The photonic sintering method may eventually lead to large‐area transient electronics for innovative applications in healthcare, data security, and consumer electronics, and enrich the category of transient electronics through achievement of more printable transient vdW electronics.
High‐Capacity and Kinetically Accelerated Lithium Storage in MoO3 Enabled by Oxygen Vacancies and Heterostructure
Authors: Zhang Yingying , Chen Peng , Wang Qingyu , Wang Qian , Zhu Kai , Ye Ke , Wang Guiling , Cao Dianxue , Yan Jun , Zhang Qiang
Published: July 2021

Molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) has recently aroused intensive interest as a renowned conversion‐type anode of Li‐ion batteries (LIBs). Nevertheless, the inferior rate capability, sluggish reaction kinetics, and fast capacity decay during a long‐term charge/discharge process seriously inhibits large‐scale commercial application. Herein, abundant oxygen vacancies and MXene nanosheets are elaborately introduced into MoO3 nanobelts through hydrazine reduction and electrostatic assembly to accelerate the ionic and electronic diffusion/transport kinetics for LIBs. Benefitting from the accelerated ion diffusion kinetics, enhanced electrical conductivity, and additional active sites induced by oxygen vacancies as well as the robust interfacial contact, the prepared MoO3−x/MXene heterostructure exhibits excellent lithium‐ion storage performances. First‐principles calculations indicate that the adsorption of Li+ ion and the electrical conductivity are significantly enhanced for the MoO3−x/MXene heterostructure. Thus, the composite exhibits high reversible capacity of 1258 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 for Li‐ion storage and retains 474 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1, remarkably higher than those of the previously reported MoO3‐based anode materials. More importantly, the composite is fabricated with commercial LiFePO4 into a full LIB, which displays an unparalleled energy density of 330 Wh kg−1.
Diaminomethylenemalononitrile as a Chiral Single Hydrogen Bond Catalyst: Application to Enantioselective Conjugate Addition of α‐Branched Aldehydes
Authors: Kawada Masahiro , Tsuyusaki Ryo , Nakashima Kosuke , Akutsu Hiroshi , Hirashima Shin‐ichi , Matsumoto Takashi , Yanai Hikaru , Miura Tsuyoshi
Published: July 2021

An improved diaminomethylenemalononitrile organocatalyst, bearing aN,N‐disubstituted structure, promoted enantioselective conjugate addition reaction of α‐branched aldehydes with vinyl sulfone, affording adducts with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 96% ee). Mechanistic studies revealed that the diaminomethylenemalononitrile motif holds the vinyl sulfone substrate using a single hydrogen bond accompanied by multiple weak interactions, including electrostatic C−H⋅⋅⋅O interactions.
A new strategy for quality evaluation and control of Chinese patent medicine based on chiral isomer ratio analysis: With Yuanhuzhitong tablet as an example
Authors: Gou Yan , Geng Zhao , Zhong Lian , Wei Jinchao , Liu Juanru , Deng Xiaohong , Li Min , Yuan Jun , Wang Yitao , Guo Li
Published: July 2021

Chiral compounds commonly exist in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), but little research on the quality control of TCM has been conducted. In this study, a new strategy is proposed, taking Yuanhuzhitong tablet [YHZT, consisting of Radix Angelicae Dahuricae and Rhizoma Corydalis (Yan Hu Suo, YHS)] for example, which is based on chiral isomer ratio analysis to monitor the production process of Chinese patent medicine companies. In the process of content determination for tetrahydropalmatine (THP) in YHZT from different companies, noticeable differences were observed in their chromatographic behaviors. It is known that THP has two enantiomers, naturally coexisting in YHS as a racemic mixture, so we prepared THP twice and subsequently performed chiral separation analysis using supercritical fluid chromatography. As a result, the peak area ratios of two enantiomers from different companies varied remarkably, demonstrating that some companies did not probably manufacture YHZT products in accordance with the prescription proportion, used inferior or extracted YSH crude materials in the production process, and added raw chemical medicine in the production to reach the standard and lower the costs. In conclusion, the peak area ratio of chiral isomers could be taken as a key quality index.
Performing nasopharyngeal swabs—Guidelines based on an anatomical study
Authors: Pruidze Paata , Mincheva Plamena , Weninger Jeremias T. , Reissig Lukas F. , Hainfellner Andreas , Weninger Wolfgang J.
Published: July 2021

Nasopharyngeal swabs are performed to collect material for diagnosing diseases affecting the respiratory system, such as Covid‐19. Yet, no systematic anatomical study defines concrete prerequisites for successfully targeting the nasopharyngeal mucosa. We therefore aim at simulating nasopharyngeal swabs in human body donors to characterize parameters allowing and supporting to enter the nasopharynx with a swab, while avoiding endangering the cribriform plate. With the aid of metal probes and commercial swabs a total of 314 nasopharyngeal swabs in anatomical head/neck specimens stemming from 157 body donors were simulated. Important anatomical parameters were photo‐documented and measured. We provide information on angles and distances between prominent anatomical landmarks and particularly important positions the probe occupies during its advancement through the nares to the upper and lower parts of the nasopharynx and cribriform plate. Based on these data we suggest a simple and safe three‐step procedure for conducting nasopharyngeal swabs. In addition, we define easily recognizable signals for its correct performance. Evaluations prove that this procedure in all specimens without deformations of the nasal cavity allows the swab to enter the nasopharynx, whereas a widespread used alternative only succeeds in less than 50%. Our data will be the key for the successful collection of nasopharyngeal material for detecting and characterizing pathogens, such as SARS‐CoV‐2, which have a high affinity to pharyngeal mucosa. They demonstrate that the danger for damaging the cribriform plate or olfactory mucosa with swabs is unlikely, but potentially higher when performing nasal swabs.
The effect of Macleaya cordata extract on in vitro ruminal fermentation and methanogenesis
Authors: Zeng Ze , Sheng Ping , Zhang Huaqi , He Li , Huang Jiangli , Wang Dongsheng , Gui Ganbei
Published: July 2021

Methane production is the main gas energy loss in ruminants and generates a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate changes. Macleaya cordata is a plant commonly utilized additive in livestock diet as it contains various chemical compounds with beneficial health effects. This study aimed to explore the influence of M. cordata extract on in vitro methanogenesis and rumen fermentation. Three cannulated Jingjiang cattle were used as rumen fluid donors. The mixture of rumen fluid and a buffer (60 ml, 1:2 volume ratio) was treated with 6 different concentrations of M. cordata extract (0.01%, 0.11%, 0.21%, 0.31%, 0.41%, and 0.51%) and incubated for 12 and 24 hr. The control sample, with no addition of plant extract, was also analyzed. At each time point, pH, total gas, methane, dry matter (DM) digestibility, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), ammonia nitrogen (NH3‐N), microbial protein (MCP), and volatile fatty acids (VFA) concentrations were determined. Total gas production decreased with increasing the amount of M. cordata extract at all time points. Methane production also decreased dose‐dependently with M. cordata extract after 3, 6, 9, and 12 hr of incubation, but increased after 24 hr. M. cordata extract decreased the concentration of NH3‐N and VFA, and the amount of acetic, propionic, and butyric acid. M. cordata extract decreased the MCP concentration after 12 hr, but its level returned to the initial value after 24 hr. Supplementation with 0.01, 0.11, and 0.21% of M. cordata extract did not affect the DM digestibility. However, supplementation with 0.31, 0.41, and 0.51% of M. cordata extract significantly decreased the DM digestibility. Supplementation with 0.11% of M. cordata extract effectively reduced methane production without affecting the DM digestion in vitro. However, its effect on in vivo methane production, rumen fermentation, and ruminant production requires further investigation.
Relative sit‐to‐stand power: aging trajectories, functionally relevant cut‐off points, and normative data in a large European cohort
Authors: Alcazar Julian , Alegre Luis M. , Van Roie Evelien , Magalhães João P. , Nielsen Barbara R. , González‐Gross Marcela , Júdice Pedro B. , Casajús Jose A. , Delecluse Christophe , Sardinha Luis B. , Suetta Charlotte , Ara Ignacio
Published: July 2021

Background

A validated, standardized, and feasible test to assess muscle power in older adults has recently been reported: the sit‐to‐stand (STS) muscle power test. This investigation aimed to assess the relationship between relative STS power and age and to provide normative data, cut‐off points, and minimal clinically important differences (MCID) for STS power measures in older women and men.

Methods

A total of 9320 older adults (6161 women and 3159 men) aged 60–103 years and 586 young and middle‐aged adults (318 women and 268 men) aged 20–60 years were included in this cross‐sectional study. Relative (normalized to body mass), allometric (normalized to height squared), and specific (normalized to legs muscle mass) muscle power values were assessed by the 30 s STS power test. Body composition was evaluated by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry and bioelectrical impedance analysis, and legs skeletal muscle index (SMI; normalized to height squared) was calculated. Habitual and maximal gait speed, timed up‐and‐go test, and 6 min walking distance were collected as physical performance measures, and participants were classified into two groups: well‐functioning and mobility‐limited older adults.

Results

Relative STS power was found to decrease between 30–50 years (−0.05 W·kg−1·year−1; P > 0.05), 50–80 years (−0.10 to −0.13 W·kg−1·year−1; P < 0.001), and above 80 years (−0.07 to −0.08 W·kg−1·year−1; P < 0.001). A total of 1129 older women (18%) and 510 older men (16%) presented mobility limitations. Mobility‐limited older adults were older and exhibited lower relative, allometric, and specific power; higher body mass index (BMI) and legs SMI (both only in women); and lower legs SMI (only in men) than their well‐functioning counterparts (all P < 0.05). Normative data and cut‐off points for relative, allometric, and specific STS power and for BMI and legs SMI were reported. Low relative STS power occurred below 2.1 W·kg−1 in women (area under the curve, AUC, [95% confidence interval, CI] = 0.85 [0.84–0.87]) and below 2.6 W·kg−1 in men (AUC [95% CI] = 0.89 [0.87–0.91]). The age‐adjusted odds ratios [95% CI] for mobility limitations in older women and men with low relative STS power were 10.6 [9.0–12.6] and 14.1 [10.9–18.2], respectively. MCID values for relative STS power were 0.33 W·kg−1 in women and 0.42 W·kg−1 in men.

Conclusions

Relative STS power decreased significantly after the age of 50 years and was negatively and strongly associated with mobility limitations. Our study provides normative data, functionally relevant cut‐off points, and MCID values for STS power for their use in daily clinical practice.
Determination of enantio‐separation, absolute configuration and chiral recognition mechanism of ofloxacin and flumequine by HPLC and modeling studies
Authors: Ali Imran , Sekkoum Khaled , Belboukhari Nasser , Rebizi Mohamed N , Zaid Mohammed El Amin , Yusuf Kareem , Alothman Asma A , AlJumah Bayan A , Ouladsmane Mohamed
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

The determination of enantio‐separation, absolute configuration and chiral recognition mechanism of ofloxacin and flumequine was carried out by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and modeling studies. The column used was a Chiralcel OD‐H with normal and polar organic mobile phase modes. The exhaustive chiral separation was optimized through various HPLC parameters.

RESULTS

The selectivity, separation factors and resolution factors for ofloxacin were 8.2 and 9.4, 1.15 and 2.43 in the normal mobile phase, while these values were 10.5 and 12.0, 1.14 and 2.40 for flumequine in polar organic mobile phase mode, respectively. The thermodynamic parameters were ΔH (−0.137 J mol−1), ΔS (7.35 × 10−4 J mol−1) and ΔG (−0.360 J mol−1 K−1) for ofloxacin, and ΔH (−0.035 J.mol−1), ΔS (21.3 × 10−4 J mol−1) and ΔG (−0.105 J mol−1 K−1) for flumequine, confirming spontaneous chiral separation at all temperatures. The chiral recognition mechanism was established by HPLC and modeling results. The modeling binding affinity were −2.5 kcal mol–1 (R‐enantiomer) and −2.6 kcal mol–1 (S‐enantiomer) for ofloxacin, and −2.30 kcal mol–1 (R‐enantiomer) and −2.40 kcal mol–1 (S‐enantiomer) for flumequine enantiomers. The chiral resolution is controlled by hydrogen bonding, π–π interactions and other forces.

CONCLUSION

These methods were applied to monitor ofloxacin and flumequine quinolones in urine samples. Briefly, the developed chiral HPLC methods are effective and may be used to analyze the reported enantiomers in any biological sample. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Effects of Laryngeal Vibratory Asymmetry and Neuromuscular Compensation on Voice Quality
Authors: Pillutla Pranati , Zhang Zhaoyan , Kreiman Jody , Wilhalme Holly , Chhetri Dinesh K.
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Vibratory asymmetry and neuromuscular compensation are often seen in laryngeal neuromuscular pathology. However, the ramifications of these findings on voice quality are unclear. This study investigated the effects of varying levels of vibratory asymmetry and neuromuscular compensation on cepstral peak prominence (CPP), an analog of voice quality.

Study Design

In vivo canine phonation model.

Methods

Varying degrees of vocal fold vibratory asymmetry were achieved by stimulating one recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) over 11 levels from threshold to maximal muscle activation. For each of these levels, phonation was induced at systematically varied combinations of neuromuscular compensation: three levels each of contralateral RLN stimulation (80%, 90%, and 100% of maximal), superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) activation (0%, 50%, and 100% of maximal), and airflow levels (500, 700, and 900 mL/s). Vocal fold symmetry was determined by assessing the opening phase of the vibratory cycle in high‐speed video recordings. Voice quality was estimated acoustically by calculating CPP for each voice sample.

Results

Eight hundred twenty‐two phonatory conditions with varying degrees of vibratory asymmetry were evaluated. CPP was highest at vibratory symmetry. Increasing levels of asymmetry resulted in significant decreases in CPP. CPP increased significantly with increasing contralateral RLN activation. CPP was significantly higher at 50% SLN activation than 0% or 100% SLN activation.

Conclusion

Voice quality, as approximated by CPP, is best at vibratory symmetry and deteriorates with increasing degrees of asymmetry. Voice quality may be improved with neuromuscular compensation by increased adduction of the contralateral vocal fold or increased vocal fold tension at mid‐levels of SLN activation.

Level of Evidence

NA, Basic Science Laryngoscope, 132:130–134, 2022
A Strategy of Liquid‐Grafted Slippery Sponges with Simultaneously Enhanced Absorption and Desorption Performances for Crude Oil Spill Remediation
Authors: Liu Shilin , Lin Jing , Chen Qiyuan , Liu Zili , Gui Lishuang , Chen Liwei , Huang Shilin , Tian Xuelin
Published: July 2021

Crude oil spill accidents pose a worldwide environmental threat. Oleophilic and hydrophobic absorbents that can selectively absorb oil from water have shown promising application potential in oil spill remediation. Simultaneous optimization of the absorption and desorption speed of absorbents towards oil is highly desirable for their recyclable usage, but remains a great challenge, because these two properties are generally conflicting. Here, a facile and ingenious strategy is proposed to tackle the above challenge via surface modification of porous sponges with highly flexible linear polydimethylsiloxane (LPDMS) brushes. The LPDMS brushes feature liquid‐like properties at room temperature owing to its extremely low glass transition temperature, and act as a covalently‐grafted lubrication layer throughout the 3D network channels of the sponge, which can minimize contact angle hysteresis and reduce friction between oil and sponge channel. Compared to the prevalent cross‐linked polydimethylsiloxane (CPDMS) modification strategy, sponges modified with LPDMS brushes not only shows significantly enhanced absorption speed, but also exhibits superior desorption dynamics towards viscous crude oils. The design strategy of slippery sponges with liquid‐like molecules may open a new avenue for developing advanced absorbents with simultaneously enhanced absorption and desorption performances for liquid separation and purification applications.
Massachusetts legislation would ensure ‘dignity’ of prisoners on MH watch
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: July 2021

In a call for systemwide reform in state prisons to rectify serious safety and constitutional concerns, Massachusetts advocates are pushing for legislation that would ensure that individuals with mental health and substance use needs who are incarcerated have the support they need while in confinement.
AARP study examines MH impact on seniors amid COVID‐19
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: July 2021

While most older adults say their mental health is very good, a third or more have symptoms associated with emotional health challenges, according to a new survey released by the AARP that focuses on how much the pandemic has taken its toll on their mental health.
Specialized computational methods for denoising, B1 correction, and kinetic modeling in hyperpolarized 13C MR EPSI studies of liver tumors
Authors: Lee Philip M. , Chen Hsin‐Yu , Gordon Jeremy W. , Zhu Zihan , Larson Peder E.Z. , Dwork Nicholas , Van Criekinge Mark , Carvajal Lucas , Ohliger Michael A. , Wang Zhen J. , Xu Duan , Kurhanewicz John , Bok Robert A. , Aggarwal Rahul , Munster Pamela N. , Vigneron Daniel B.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To develop a novel post‐processing pipeline for hyperpolarized (HP) 13C MRSI that integrates tensor denoising and correction to measure pyruvate‐to‐lactate conversion rates (kPL) in patients with liver tumors.

Methods

Seven HP 13C MR scans of progressing liver tumors were acquired using a custom 13C surface transmit/receive coil and the echo‐planar spectroscopic imaging (EPSI) data analysis included B0 correction, tensor rank truncation, and zero‐ and first‐order phase corrections to recover metabolite signals that would otherwise be obscured by spectral noise as well as a correction for inhomogeneous transmit () using a map aligned to the coil position for each patient scan. Processed HP data and corrected flip angles were analyzed with an inputless two‐site exchange model to calculate kPL.

Results

Denoising averages SNR increases of pyruvate, lactate, and alanine were 37.4‐, 34.0‐, and 20.1‐fold, respectively, with lactate and alanine dynamics most noticeably recovered and better defined. In agreement with Monte Carlo simulations, over‐flipped regions underestimated kPL and under‐flipped regions overestimated kPL. correction addressed this issue.

Conclusion

The new HP 13C EPSI post‐processing pipeline integrated tensor denoising and correction to measure kPL in patients with liver tumors. These technical developments not only recovered metabolite signals in voxels that did not receive the prescribed flip angle, but also increased the extent and accuracy of kPL estimations throughout the tumor and adjacent regions including normal‐appearing tissue and additional lesions.
The Hong Kong Umbrella Movement as a non‐profit organization: An empirical study on the use of visual branding practices for social change
Authors: Patsiaouras Georgios , Veneti Anastasia , Green William
Published: July 2021

In this article, we draw our attention to the growth of a new social movement, as a non‐profit organization which aims to effectively communicate its collective identity and messages to larger audiences. Initially, we provide a critical discussion on the interrelationships between marketing theory/practice and protest groups' promotional tactics. Afterwards, we focus on the interface between visual branding practices and new social movement's strategies to create a visual branding identity around their protest symbols and aims. In order to do so, we adopted a moderate participant observation approach to explore how the 2014 Hong Kong Umbrella Movement employed forms of visual branding to engage local and global audiences and induce social change. Drawing on a close examination of field notes and a visual analysis of digital archives and images from the protest sites, we identify and discuss the presence of several visual branding techniques for the imaginative promotion of the movement's demands and causes. Our findings suggest that the 2014 Umbrella Movement protesters coordinated and acted as non‐profit organization which employed innovative and creative visual branding methods to enhance the movement's unity and trigger emotional responses from diverse audiences. We conclude the article with suggestions for future research around the interrelationships between social movements' protest symbols, transnational visual branding practices and non‐profit organizational practices.
The cultural roles of perforated fish vertebrae in prehistoric and historic Europe
Authors: Makowiecki Daniel , Ritchie Kenneth , Pluskowski Aleks
Published: July 2021

This paper provides a new synthesis of perforated fish vertebrae in prehistoric and historic Europe, with a particular focus on Poland, within the broader context of Central and Eastern Europe. The earliest examples of such artefacts in Europe date from the Upper Palaeolithic, but compared to other ‘beads’ manufactured from animal bone, perforated fish vertebrae are rare. This paper examines the diachronic trends in the range of species that have been chosen for such objects, as well as their depositional contexts. Despite the wide range of freshwater and marine species exploited by people, only the vertebrae of a few species—especially pike and catfish—were selected for use as beads. There is a general shift from their deposition in funerary contexts in prehistoric European societies to their association as low‐status objects associated with Christian private devotion in the post‐conversion period. However, this may not reflect continuity in the use of fish vertebrae, with a shift in their symbolism after the conversion to Christianity, given the substantial chronological gaps in the archaeological record. This synthesis nonetheless provides a solid foundation for contextualising future archaeological finds of such artefacts.
An optogenetic assay method for electrogenic transporters using Escherichia coli co‐expressing light‐driven proton pump
Authors: Hayashi Masahiro , Kojima Keiichi , Sudo Yuki , Yamashita Atsuko
Published: July 2021

In organisms, nutrients and wastes move across the cellular membrane, in which membrane‐embedded transporters facilitate and inhibit the movement. Despite the physiological significances, the currently used assay methods for transporter activities require tedious preparation and analytical processes. In this study, we report the isotope‐free and label‐free measurement system for the transport activities of electrogenic transporters. In the system, two molecules, a light‐driven inward proton pump rhodopsin, xenorhodopsin (XeR), and a representative of an electrogenic transporter, an oxalate transporter (OxlT), were co‐expressed in Escherichia coli cells. The light illumination of the cells co‐expressing XeR and OxlT showed an increase in the pH of the bulk solution and that the extent of the pH change is significantly enhanced by adding the oxalate, suggesting the light‐induced inward proton transport by XeR coupled to the negative electrogenic transport by OxlT. Such a pH increase was dependent on the oxalate concentration, but not on the XeR expression level. Of note, pH increase was not observed for the nonfunctional mutants of OxlT, R272A, and K355Q, supporting the validity of the system. Thus, we successfully developed an optogenetic assay method for electrogenic transporters using E. coli co‐expressing light‐driven proton pump.
Effectiveness of Curcuma longa extract versus placebo for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Dai Wenli , Yan Wenqiang , Leng Xi , Chen Jing , Hu Xiaoqing , Ao Yingfang
Published: July 2021

The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of all types of Curcuma longa extract versus placebo for knee osteoarthritis (OA) treatment. The research was conducted by using the databases of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library through April 2021. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the effect of Curcuma longa extract with placebo for patients with knee OA were considered eligible. The pooled results were expressed as mean differences or relative risks with 95% confidence intervals. A total of 10 RCTs with 783 patients were eligible for this meta‐analysis. The pooled analysis showed that Curcuma longa extract was associated with significantly better pain relief and functional improvement compared with placebo for knee OA. Moreover, the smallest effect sizes of VAS for pain and WOMAC total score exceeded the minimum clinically important differences (MCIDs). Current evidence indicates that, compared with placebo, Curcuma longa extract has more benefit in pain relief and functional improvement for symptomatic knee OA. However, considering the potential heterogeneity in the included studies, more future high‐quality RCTs with large sample sizes are necessary to confirm the benefits of Curcuma longa extract on knee OA.
Can AI be racist? Color‐evasiveness in the application of machine learning to science assessments
Authors: Cheuk Tina
Published: July 2021

Assessment developers are increasingly using the developing technology of machine learning in transforming how to assess students in their science learning. I argue that these algorithmic models further embed the structures of inequality that are pervasive in the development of science assessments in how they legitimize certain language practices that protect the hierarchical standing of status quo interests. My argument is situated within the broader emerging ethical challenges around this new technology. I apply a raciolinguistic equity analysis framework in critiquing the “new black box” that reinforces structural forms of discrimination against the linguistic repertoires of racially marginalized student populations. The article ends with me sharing a set of tactical shifts that can be deployed to form a more equitable and socially‐just field of machine learning enhanced science assessments.
Synthesis of Different Pt‐ZnO Binary Composites for Synergistic Photo‐Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Methanol in Alkali
Authors: Kanti Bera Kamal , Chakraborty Malay , Kanti Bera Shyamal , Mandal Manas , Chatterjee Sujit , Kumar Bhattacharya Swapan
Published: July 2021

Various compositions of Pt‐ZnO binary nano composites are synthesized as anode‐catalyst for methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) in alkali under both presence and absence of visible light. Synthesized materials are characterised by various microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. The catalytic capabilities of synthesized anodes are evaluated by cyclic voltametry (CV), chronoamperometry (CA) and electro‐chemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). CV studies indicate that Pt‐ZnO composite containing 0.6 wt % of Pt displays peak current density (in mAmg−1 of Pt) 427.5 which is 14.84 times greater than that of composite containing 0.1 wt % Pt (28.80) in dark condition and under visible light, 0.4 wt % Pt and 0.6 wt % Pt exhibit 1.89 and 1.28 times greater activity in reference to MOR than that of dark. CA study reveals that 0.6 wt % Pt exhibits steady current density (20.91 mAmg−1 of Pt) 209 times higher compared to that of composite having 0.1 wt % Pt (0.264 mAmg−1 of Pt). The photocurrent response of 0.4 wt % Pt is found the best among the electrodes examined. The EIS data also reveal enhanced interfacial charge transfer in photo‐irradiated electrodes. The HPLC and GCMS studies identify MOR products and help to draw the mechanisms.
Hydrogenation of Furfural to Furfuryl Alcohol over Nickel Supported Bentonite Catalyst
Authors: Kamble Paresh A. , Kantam Mannepalli Lakshmi , Rathod Virendra K.
Published: July 2021

In this work, nickel‐supported bentonite catalyst was prepared by wet impregnation method followed by activation and reduction. The nickel catalyst showed excellent catalytic activity for hydrogenation of furfural with 98 % selectivity towards furfuryl alcohol. In addition, various reaction parameters such as temperature, time, catalyst loading, solvents, and catalyst recycling, were optimized to enhance furfural conversion and furfuryl alcohol selectivity.
Preparation and Characterization of a Hard Capsule Based on Oxidized Rice Starch and Cellulose Nanocrystals
Authors: Chen QiJie , Zhao YaLan , Zong ZhangYang , You Na , Zhang Peng
Published: July 2021

A hard capsule based on oxidized rice starch (ORS) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) is prepared by a dipping method and the glycerol and carrageenan are used as a plasticizer and gelling agent in the ORS/CNC gel solution, respectively. The viscosity of gel solution that is suitable for film‐forming/capsule‐forming is analyzed. When the content of CNC is 8.0%, the tensile strength of the ORS/CNC composite film is 10.09 MPa and increased by 196.0%. The loss on drying and the disintegration time of the ORS/CNC capsules are also investigated. The ORS/CNC capsules are analyzed by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results show that the ORS and CNC have good compatibility and good film‐forming ability and can be used as excipients to prepare the hard capsules.
Client satisfaction in equine veterinary practice: A structured review and qualitative synthesis
Authors: Elte Yteke , Wolframm Inga , Nielen Mirjam , van Weeren René
Published: July 2021

Background

The pressure on equine veterinarians to provide services that meet with a client's demands, that is, realizing client satisfaction, is considerable.

Aim

The aim of this paper is to analyze existing literature, with a view to distill the most relevant components for client satisfaction in equine veterinary practice.

Materials and Methods

A structured literature search was conducted. Included papers were systematically organised and analysed using an inductive approach.

Results

Seven components relevant to client satisfaction in equine veterinary practice were identified: quality of care, quality of service, horsemanship of the veterinarian, costs of service, interpersonal skills, professional attitude and transfer of knowledge.

Discussion

The limited amount and variable quality of available records regarding client satisfaction in equine veterinary practice are the main limitations of this study.

Conclusion

The seven categories identified are likely to play a fundamental role in achieving client satisfaction in equine veterinary practice. Additional research is required to validate these categories and relate them to different types of clients as well as map their needs and expectations, so that they can be used to assist equine veterinary professionals in tailoring customer experience to the individual client.
Evaluation of fluoride adsorption in solution by synthetic Al2O3/CeO2: A fixed‐bed column study
Authors: Chen Fenfei , Lv Fengjin , Li Huabin , Xu Ling'e , Wei Jun , He Yuxuan , Qian Jin , Gao Pan
Published: July 2021

A highly efficient fluoride adsorbent Al2O3/CeO2 was synthesized in this work and used it to fluoride removal in the fixed‐bed adsorption through changing the different experimental conditions (influent F− concentration, flow velocity, and bed heights). The adsorption capacity was 9.72 mg/g. In addition, the Adams–Bohart and Thomas models were used to fit and evaluate the column breakthrough curve of fluoride removal process by Al2O3/CeO2, and the correlation coefficients (R2) of the Thomas model were close to 1 under all experimental conditions. The structure of Al2O3/CeO2 and the adsorption mechanism were confirmed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), N2 adsorption and desorption isotherm, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Moreover, the adsorption of fluoride (F−) was mainly through metal binding (MF) and hydroxyl binding (AlOH⋯F) on the surface of the Al2O3/CeO2. Furthermore, the regeneration and coexisting anions studies of Al2O3/CeO2 were carried out, and the efficiency of adsorption was still above 70% after five cycles.

Practitioner Points

Removal of fluoride was studied by fixed‐bed experiment, and the adsorption capacity of composite Al2O3/CeO2 was 9.72 mg/g.

The metal complex played important role in fluoride removal and reusability makes a long‐term application for fluoride adsorption.

Fluoride wastewater is pumped to the fixed‐bed column, and fluoride ions are absorbed by Al2O3/CeO2 through fluoride metal complex and aluminum hydrofluoride.
Elliptical heads result in increased glenohumeral translation along with micro-motion of the glenoid component during axial rotation in total shoulder arthroplasty
Authors: Muench Lukas N. , Kia Cameron , Murphey Matthew , Obopilwe Elifho , Cote Mark P. , Imhoff Andreas B. , Mazzocca Augustus D. , Berthold Daniel P.
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Elliptical-shaped humeral head prostheses have recently been proposed to reflect a more anatomic shoulder replacement. However, its subsequent effect on micro-motion of the glenoid component is still not understood.

Materials and methods

Six fresh-frozen, cadaveric shoulders (mean age: 62.7 ± 9.2 years) were used for the study. Each specimen underwent total shoulder arthroplasty using an anatomic stemless implant. At 15°, 30°, 45° and 60° of glenohumeral abduction, 50° of internal and external rotations in the axial plane were alternatingly applied to the humerus with both an elliptical and spherical humeral head design. Glenohumeral translation was assessed by means of a 3-dimensional digitizer. Micro-motion of the glenoid component was evaluated using four high-resolution differential variable reluctance transducer strain gauges, placed at the anterior, posterior, superior, and inferior aspect of the glenoid component.

Results

The elliptical head design showed significantly more micro-motion in total and at the superior aspect of glenoid component during external rotation at 15° (total: P = 0.004; superior: P = 0.004) and 30° (total: P = 0.045; superior: P = 0.033) of abduction when compared to the spherical design. However, during internal rotation, elliptical and spherical heads showed similar amounts of micro-motion at the glenoid component at all tested abduction angles. When looking at glenohumeral translation, elliptical and spherical heads showed similar anteroposterior and superoinferior translation as well as compound motion during external rotation at all tested abduction angles. During internal rotation, the elliptical design resulted in significantly more anteroposterior translation and compound motion at all abduction angles when compared to the spherical design (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

In the setting of total shoulder arthroplasty, the elliptical head design demonstrated greater glenohumeral translation and micro-motion at the glenoid component during axial rotation when compared to the spherical design, potentially increasing the risk for glenoid loosening in the long term.

Level of evidence

Controlled Laboratory Study
Topological measurement of deep neural networks using persistent homology
Authors: Watanabe Satoru , Yamana Hayato
Published: July 2021

The inner representation of deep neural networks (DNNs) is indecipherable, which makes it difficult to tune DNN models, control their training process, and interpret their outputs. In this paper, we propose a novel approach to investigate the inner representation of DNNs through topological data analysis (TDA). Persistent homology (PH), one of the outstanding methods in TDA, was employed for investigating the complexities of trained DNNs. We constructed clique complexes on trained DNNs and calculated the one-dimensional PH of DNNs. The PH reveals the combinational effects of multiple neurons in DNNs at different resolutions, which is difficult to be captured without using PH. Evaluations were conducted using fully connected networks (FCNs) and networks combining FCNs and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) trained on the MNIST and CIFAR-10 data sets. Evaluation results demonstrate that the PH of DNNs reflects both the excess of neurons and problem difficulty, making PH one of the prominent methods for investigating the inner representation of DNNs.
The Sufferings of the Biblical Job as an Icon of Postmodernity: The ‘loneliness’ of God and the human being in a consumerist paradise
Authors: Stala Józef , Osewska Elżbieta , Bochenek Krzysztof
Published: July 2021

This article explores ways in which the attitudes of the biblical Job may enrich postmodernist philosophy by addressing some of its inherent problems. The discussion focuses in particular on the biblical Book of Job that can serve as an example of confronting suffering as a dramatic implication of human life that denies the sense of happiness. In an attempt to suppress this fear, the postmodern human contests, in various ways, the truth of their ontic frailty and the fragility of their constructed “happiness”. The questions that the biblical Job posed to God with a distinct air of resentment and regret seem at first sight to be meaningless as they are thrown into the void of a terrifying Universe. The critique offered here comes out of a Christian philosophical and theological base which posits that belief in the sacrum, transcendence, God and the hope of eternal life are key elements in a meaning system that fosters mental health and human happiness. In the postmodern system of meaning, individuals may no longer question the existence of God for the sake of human freedom, nor seek evidence of God’s non-existence, but simply live as if God does not exist. From a Christian perspective, it appears that non-belief in a transcendent spiritual dimension can inline people in postmodern society to feel that they live in an atmosphere of existential anxiety. Similarly, a Christian critique would consider that it is the postmodernist view of fluidity in all aspects of human life that leads to uncertainty and suffering, a causal consequence that people may not advert to. In this way, confronted with many postmodern phenomena, they may unknowingly live in a world of illusion. The Christian critique would also see it is as necessary and important to address constructively the challenges raised by cultural postmodernity. For this reason, the article will reflect on the realism of human suffering, the forgetting and rejection of God, as well as transcendence.
Computed tomography imaging of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA): pearls and pitfalls
Authors: Aoki Ryo , Kobayashi Yusuke , Nawata Shintaro , Kamide Hiroyuki , Yamamoto Toh , Furugori Shintaro , Sekikawa Zenjiro , Utsunomiya Daisuke
Published: July 2021

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is performed in patients with hemorrhagic shock who develop massive subdiaphragmatic bleeding. This procedure enables rapid and less invasive aortic blockade compared to resuscitative thoracotomy and aortic cross-clamp procedures. However, the REBOA procedure is often blindly performed in the emergency department without fluoroscopy, and the appropriateness of the procedure may be evaluated on computed tomography (CT) after REBOA. Therefore, radiologists should be familiar with the imaging features of REBOA. We present a pictorial review of the radiological findings of REBOA along with a description of the procedure, its complications, and pitfalls.
Risk Factors for the Development of the Disease in Antiphospholipid Antibodies Carriers: A Long-term Follow-up Study
Authors: Pablo Rosalía Demetrio , Cacho Pedro Muñoz , López-Hoyos Marcos , Calvo-Río Vanesa , Riancho-Zarrabeitia Leyre , Martínez-Taboada Víctor M.
Published: July 2021

The natural history of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) carriers is not well-established. The objectives of the present study were (a) to study the probability of developing clinical criteria of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), (b) to identify potential risk factors for developing thrombosis and/or obstetric complications, (c) to study the association between the antibody profile and development of APS, and (d) to determine the efficacy of primary prophylaxis. We retrospectively analyzed 138 subjects with positive aPL who did not fulfill clinical criteria for APS. The mean follow-up time was 138 ± 63.0 months. Thirteen patients (9.4%) developed thrombosis after an average period of 73.0 ± 48.0 months. Independent risk factors for thrombosis were smoking, hypertension, thrombocytopenia, and triple aPL positivity. Low-dose acetyl salicylic acid did not prevent thrombotic events. A total of 28 obstetric complications were detected in 92 pregnancies. During the follow-up, only two women developed obstetric APS. Prophylactic treatment in pregnant women was associated with a better outcome in the prevention of early abortions. The thrombosis rate in patients with positive aPL who do not meet diagnostic criteria for APS is 0.82/100 patients-year. Smoking, hypertension, thrombocytopenia, and the aPL profile are independent risk factors for the development of thrombosis in aPL carriers. Although the incidence of obstetric complications in this population is high (31.6%), only a few of them meet APS criteria. In these women, prophylactic treatment might be effective in preventing early abortions.
Minimal Representations of a Face of a Convex Polyhedron and Some Applications
Authors: Van Tu Ta
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we propose a method for determining all minimal representations of a face of a polyhedron defined by a system of linear inequalities. Main difficulties for determining prime and minimal representations of a face are that the deletion of one redundant constraint can change the redundancy of other constraints and the number of descriptor index pairs for the face can be huge. To reduce computational efforts in finding all minimal representations of a face, we prove and use properties that deleting strongly redundant constraints does not change the redundancy of other constraints and all minimal representations of a face can be found only in the set of all prime representations of the face corresponding to the maximal descriptor index set for it. The proposed method is based on a top-down search strategy, is easy to implement, and has many computational advantages. Based on minimal representations of a face, a reduction of degeneracy degrees of the face and ideas to improve some known methods for finding all maximal efficient faces in multiple objective linear programming are presented. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the method.
Current status of national integrated gasification fuel cell projects in China
Authors: Peng Suping
Published: July 2021

Coal has been the main energy source in China for a long period. Therefore, the energy industry must improve coal power generation efficiency and achieve near-zero CO2 emissions. Integrated gasification fuel cell (IGFC) systems that combine coal gasification and high-temperature fuel cells, such as solid oxide fuel cells or molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs), are proving to be promising for efficient and clean power generation, compared with traditional coal-fired power plants. In 2017, with the support of National Key R&D Program of China, a consortium led by the China Energy Group and including 12 institutions was formed to develop the advanced IGFC technology with near-zero CO2 emissions. The objectives of this project include understanding the performance of an IGFC power generation system under different operating conditions, designing master system principles for engineering optimization, developing key technologies and intellectual property portfolios, setting up supply chains for key materials and equipment, and operating the first megawatt IGFC demonstration system with near-zero CO2 emission, in early 2022. In this paper, the main developments and projections pertaining to the IGFC project are highlighted.
Global Frictional Equilibrium via Stochastic, Local Coulomb Frictional Slips
Authors: Zhang Shihuai , Ma Xiaodong
Published: July 2021

Based on the assumption that fault slip dominates in the stress relaxation in the brittle crust, Coulomb theory allows for the crustal stress estimation with an empirical frictional coefficient. However, natural variability of fault friction and slip uncertainty exist in the Earth's crust. To address the extent to which heterogeneous frictional slips influence crustal stress and its evolution, we establish a quasi‐static, 2D model to represent the fractured crustal rock mass. The model consists of randomly oriented fractures with heterogeneous distribution of frictional coefficients. The global mechanical response is quantitatively related to the cascades of local frictional slips under specific boundary conditions. The temporal evolution of stress is explicitly modeled by an iterative process where a simple slip law is assumed for critical fractures. We particularly illustrate the stress evolution in a normal faulting stress regime, considering different distributions of frictional coefficients. All cases indicate that the decrease in differential stress manifests as a self‐organized process, eventually leading to the frictional equilibrium of the fractured rock mass. The final stress state upon equilibrium jointly depends on the orientation and frictional coefficient of all fractures therein. The model informs that the global stress state of a stochastic system can depart substantially from a deterministic estimation via an empirical frictional coefficient. This model quantitatively corroborates and extends the notion of frictional equilibrium, and reveals far more profound influence of system heterogeneity on the local and global stress evolution.