bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life‐history traits and temporal patterns in the incidence of coastal fishes experiencing tropicalization
Authors: Fujiwara Masami , Simpson Airi , Torres‐Ceron Milton , Martinez‐Andrade Fernando
Published: August 2022

Climate change is causing shifts in the geographic distributions of coastal fish species toward higher latitudes. However, local fish communities found in higher latitudes today are not simply those found in lower latitudes in the past because the sensitivity of species to various environmental conditions is different. Responses of fish to environmental conditions differ depending on their life‐history traits such as the maximum population growth rate, age of maturity, and generation time because these traits are constrained by environmental conditions. Here, we investigate associations among temporal patterns in presence–absence (incidence) data, life‐history traits of species, and environmental conditions to elucidate the potential mechanisms behind the effects of climate change on coastal fish communities. In this study, fish monitoring data collected semi‐monthly between 1982 and 2019 from eight major bays in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico were analyzed with generalized additive models. Smooth patterns over seasons and years in the incidence data of 77 species were estimated, and the data were associated with environmental variables. Further, these temporal patterns were associated with the life‐history traits of species. The results show that species that are more common in the summer months (non‐winter spawners) tend to exhibit an increasing trend and that species common during the spring (winter spawners) tend to exhibit a decreasing trend, suggesting the importance of summer conditions in driving tropicalization. Salinity had significant effects on species in general, and longer‐lived species tended to be affected by temperature. These results suggest seasonal differences in the effects of environmental conditions and variation in sensitivity to environmental conditions among different life‐history strategies. These findings represent major steps toward understanding the mechanisms behind the tropicalization of estuarine communities.
Extinction dynamics: The interplay of species traits and the spatial scales of metapopulation declines
Authors: Walker Emma J. , Gilbert Benjamin
Published: August 2022

Global changes can lead to species declines and extinctions through their impacts on species habitats at two distinct spatial scales: habitat destruction, in which individual habitat patches are destroyed by land‐use change or natural disasters, and habitat degradation, in which larger scale changes, such as nitrogen deposition or climate change, lower mean population abundances across landscapes. We developed a theory showing that, even when these two forms of global change have an identical impact on a species' total amount of habitat, they have qualitatively different consequences for species dynamics and extinction. Using metapopulation theory and simulations, we found distinct impacts of these global changes characterized through several responses: the rate at which populations are lost from the remaining patches, extinction thresholds, and the duration of extinction debts. Habitat degradation causes a faster decline in species populations when habitat reduction is low, making it particularly detrimental for rare species. Habitat destruction has smaller impacts for low habitat reduction, but shows clear thresholds beyond which it surpasses degradation's negative impact; the location and steepness of the threshold depends on species dispersal, with poor dispersers having steeper thresholds. These results highlight the challenge of using population monitoring to assess the consequences of global changes and predict consequences of further change: extinction trajectories cannot be predicted due to thresholds (habitat destruction) and lagged dynamics that lead to extinction debts (habitat degradation). Our research clarifies why the impacts of one type of global change may poorly predict the impacts of the other and suggests general rules for predicting the long‐term impacts of global changes based on species traits.
Evaluation of primer pairs for eDNA‐based assessment of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera across a biogeographically diverse region
Authors: Brantschen Jeanine , Pellissier Loïc , Walser Jean‐Claude , Altermatt Florian
Published: August 2022

Macroinvertebrates serve as key indicators in ecological assessments of aquatic ecosystems, where the composition and richness of their communities are indicative of environmental and anthropogenic change. Established monitoring of macroinvertebrates is expensive and time‐consuming, and relies on expert taxonomic knowledge. In contrast, biomonitoring based on molecular tools can support faster characterization of aquatic communities but needs validation for the target taxonomic groups and the study region. Here, we used data from a biomonitoring program covering a large biogeographic gradient to compare the routine kick‐net method with eDNA metabarcoding. We used two primer pairs targeting COI, one targeting a broad metazoan spectrum (mICOIintF/jgHCO2198) and another more recently developed primer pair optimized for the detection of freshwater invertebrates (fwhF2/EPTDr2n). We used the data of the macroinvertebrate monitoring with a focus on the orders of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera across 92 rivers in Switzerland, covering four continental drainage basins and an elevational range from 198 to 1650 m a.s.l. Across all sample sites, the kick‐net detected more distinct taxa than either of the metabarcoding approaches. At a site level, however, both primer pairs detected on average more species. Comparing both primer pairs, the fwhF2/EPTDr2n primer pair captured more species assigned to the indicator groups Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera, and showed a significantly larger overlap with the kick‐net method. However, the community composition still varied significantly among the different metabarcoding approaches. Fewer Trichoptera species were recovered by eDNA, whereas the fwhF2/EPTDr2n primer pair detected more Plecopterans than the other two approaches. This study highlights the importance of the optimization and validation of novel molecular approaches under consideration of the target organismal group and the study area.
Synthesis of Glycal Amides from Amino Acid Esters by Carbonylative Coupling Reaction
Authors: De Jesus Jessica C. , Noguchi Henrique K. , Toledo Mônica F. Z. J. , Burrow Robert A. , Pimenta Daniel C. , Stefani Hélio A.
Published: August 2022

Glycal amides were prepared for the first time by reacting 2‐iodo‐D‐glycals with L‐amino acid esters via a Pd‐catalyzed carbonylative cross‐coupling reaction, by using Mo(CO)6 as the carbon monoxide source. Glycal amides were synthesized in moderate to good yields under our optimized conditions. In addition, the acetyl groups of the glucal amides could be readily removed to obtain the corresponding trihydroxy derivatives in good yields.
Cyclobutane Formation by the Reaction of Ethenesulfonyl Fluoride with Dimethyl Diazomalonate
Authors: Li Le , Mayer Peter , Ofial Armin R. , Mayr Herbert
Published: August 2022

Attempts to synthesize fluorosulfonyl‐substituted pyrazolines by Huisgen reactions (1,3‐dipolar cycloadditions) of dimethyl diazomalonate with ethenesulfonyl fluoride led to the formation of dimethyl (2R*,3S*,4R*)‐2‐(1,3‐dimethoxy‐1,3‐dioxopropan‐2‐yl)‐3‐(fluorosulfonyl)‐4‐((fluorosulfonyl)methyl)cyclobutane‐1,1‐dicarboxylate, a highly substituted cyclobutane derivative, which was characterized by NMR spectroscopy and single crystal X‐ray crystallography. The mechanism of its formation was elucidated by carrying out the reaction at different temperatures and workup conditions. It is shown that an initial 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition yields a pyrazoline which extrudes nitrogen with formation of 1‐fluorosulfonyl‐2,2‐bis(methoxycarbonyl)cyclopropane and dimethyl 2‐(2‐(fluorosulfonyl)ethylidene)malonate, the latter of which dimerized during chromatography on silica gel with formation of the isolated cyclobutane.
A Review and Perspective on Path Dependency in Batteries
Authors: Röder Fridolin , Ramasubramanian Srivatsan
Published: August 2022

Reliability of battery state estimation and lifetime prediction is essential to develop operation strategies that improve lifetime, safety, and sustainability. However, this is difficult, because of complex phenomena such as path dependency of battery aging, path dependency of power capability, voltage hysteresis, or memory effects. Herein, these phenomena as well as test protocols, models, and analysis methods being frequently applied in this context are reviewed. The discussion indicates that insights into path dependency are of great importance to understand battery operation under realistic conditions. Challenges and possible future research directions are outlined.
A novel equivalent modeling method combined with the splice‐electrochemical polarization model and prior generalized inverse least‐square parameter identification for UAV lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Peng Jiawei , Shi Haotian , Wang Shunli , Wang Liping , Fernandez Carlos , Xiong Xin , Dablu Bobobee Etse
Published: August 2022

The accuracy of lithium‐ion battery state estimation is critical to the safety of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). In this paper, aiming at the high‐fidelity modeling of the UAV lithium‐ion battery, a splice‐electrochemical polarization model (S‐EPM) for UAV lithium‐ion battery is constructed by combining the traditional electrochemical model with the equivalent circuit model, which greatly improved the accuracy of the battery modeling. In addition, a novel prior generalized inverse least‐squares algorithm is proposed. Also, based on this algorithm, the full‐parameter identification and multicondition error analysis of the S‐EPM are realized based on this algorithm. Finally, a targeted complex discharge rate test and a full‐function charge–discharge test were designed to further verify the applicability of the S‐EPM to complex conditions. The experimental results show that the voltage error of the model under each working condition is 5.50 and 3.0 mV, and the maximum percentage error ratio is 0.20% and 0.07%. This experiment can provide a theoretical basis for the combination of the electrochemical model and equivalent circuit model and the accurate estimation of internal state variables of lithium‐ion batteries.
Marine species introduction via reproduction and its response to ship transit routes
Authors: Donelan Sarah C , Miller A Whitman , Muirhead Jim R , Ruiz Gregory M
Published: August 2022

The introduction of nonindigenous species (NIS) threatens global ecosystems and results primarily from human transportation and trade activities. Although some NIS can disperse immediately upon arrival (for example, mobile species), actual inoculation for other (sessile) species can require a reproductive event to produce propagules that disperse and establish. NIS reproductive potential, however, can vary with environmental conditions experienced during transit and upon arrival that differ substantially by route. We propose that variation in reproductive responses, both across species and transit routes, is a critical but overlooked driver of species invasions. We illustrate these concepts using vessel biofouling organisms, which are exposed to vastly different conditions during transport across the world’s oceans. Current knowledge gaps prevent precise predictions of the potential for species to be introduced via reproduction. Integrating reproductive potential into management strategies is key to limiting NIS spread, particularly as climate change and novel events continue to alter global transportation networks.

Front Ecol Environ 2022;
Geochemistry of Late Cretaceous granitoids in the Yidun Terrane: Implications for petrogenesis and tectonic evolution in the eastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Sun Zhuanrong , Dong Guochen , Lemdjou Yanick Brice , Ketchaya Yanick Blaise , Pan Yanning , Guo Jianheng , Wang Zhongbao
Published: August 2022

Granites from the eastern Tibetan Plateau record information about the Tethys evolution. This paper reports a systematic study on the N‐S‐trending Late Cretaceous granite belt in the Yidun Terrane. The studied rocks are A‐type granites and I‐type granites with adakitic affinity. From north to south, the studied rocks have intermediate ages and whole‐rock geochemistry that shows a transitional composition. The granites from the northern Yidun Terrane were emplaced at 106–90 Ma. They are characterized by high silica (SiO2 > 70 wt.%) contents, low Mg# (10–38), Eu/Eu*(0.09–0.70), Sr/Y (1–12), and La/Yb (5–21) values and positive to negative εHf(t) (−7.6 to +2.5). In contrasts, granites from the southern Yidun Terrane were emplaced at 87–75 Ma and are intermediate to felsic with SiO2 < 70 wt.%, and higher Mg# (34–69), Eu/Eu* (0.64–1.01), Sr/Y (16–71), La/Yb (22–41) values, and negative εHf(t) values (−9.1 to −1.3). These features together with the Sr–Nd isotopic compositions show that granites from the northern Yidun Terrane were derived from partial melting of ancient crustal from the Yidun Terrane (Xiuwacu granite), with contributions of mantle‐derived components (Queershan and Genie batholiths). Granites from the southern Yidun Terrane likely originated from ancient thickened‐crustal source. The increase of Sr/Y and (La/Yb)N ratios from north to south suggests a crustal thickening, which influenced the magmatic process, resulting in the transition of geochemical composition of the studied granites. An eastward migrating arc post‐collisional model is proposed for the Lhasa‐Qiangtang collision when compared to the eastward younging Late Cretaceous granites in the Qiangtang Terrane. The southward migrating granitic magmatism in the Yidun Terrane was triggered by the eastward migrating rollback of the flat‐subducted Bangong–Nujiang oceanic slab beneath the Qiangtang Terrane.
The impact of a national formulary expansion on diabetics
Authors: McNamara Cici , Serna Natalia
Published: August 2022

This paper estimates the causal effect of the expansion of Colombia's national prescription drug formulary to include five new types of insulin on the healthcare utilization and costs of type I diabetics and explores the mechanisms through which outpatient cost reductions are realized. We find that expanded coverage generates an increase in the cost of insulin for type I diabetics equal to 17% of their baseline healthcare costs. At the same time, their annual outpatient care utilization falls by 1.9 claims. We devise tests to explore the relative importance of two mechanisms by which the expansion may have lowered type I diabetics' non‐drug healthcare utilization: spillovers from drug to non‐drug spending and rationing of care. We find no evidence that the formulary expansion reduces the rate of complications from diabetes and find substantial declines in non‐drug costs even among the subset of diabetics with no scope for spillovers. We find large reductions in the utilization of discretionary care including diagnostic tests, but no such declines for the use of essential drugs, suggesting that rationing of care is the primary driver of observed cost savings.
Measuring zero water level in stream reaches: A comparison of an image‐based versus a conventional method
Authors: Herzog Amelie , Stahl Kerstin , Blauhut Veit , Weiler Markus
Published: August 2022

A limited number of gauging stations, especially for nested catchments, hampers a process understanding of the interaction between streamflow, groundwater and water usage during drought. Non‐commercial measurement devices can help overcome this lack of monitoring, but they need to be thoroughly tested. The Dreisam River in the South‐West of Germany was affected by several hydrological drought events from 2015 to 2020 during which parts of the main stream and tributaries fell dry. Therefore it provided a useful case study area for a flexible longitudinal water quality and quantity monitoring network. Among other measurements the setup employs an image‐based method with QR codes as fiducial marker. In order to assess under which conditions the QR‐code based water level loggers (WLL) deliver data according to scientific standards, we compared its performance to conventional capacitive based WLL. The results from 20 monitoring stations reveal that the riverbed was dry for >50% at several locations and even for >70% at most severely affected locations during July and August 2020, with the north western parts of the catchment being especially concerned. Highly variable longitudinal drying patterns of the stream reaches emerged from the monitoring. The image‐based method was found valuable for identification and validation of zero level occurrences. Nevertheless, a simple image processing approach (based on an automatic thresholding algorithm) did not compensate for errors due to natural conditions and technical setup. Our findings highlight that the complexity of measurement environments is a major challenge when working with image‐based methods.
The alternative 3′ splice site of GPNMB may promote neuronal survival after neonatal hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy injury
Authors: Chen Guo‐Jiao , Yan Shan‐Shan , Zhang Jing‐Han , Zhang Ji , Deng Isaac Bul , He Rong
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to decipher the effect of glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma protein B (GPNMB) on neonatal hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (NHIE) and its potential molecular mechanism. The hypoxic–ischemic (HI) model was established in 7‐day‐old rats, and then, Zea‐Longa scores and Nissl staining were performed to measure brain damage post‐HI. In addition, gene sequencing was used to detect the differential expression genes (DEGs), and then, Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes databases were used to determine the function of DEGs. Furthermore, an oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) model was developed in SY5Y cells and human fetal neurons, and then, the level of GPNMB was verified by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. In addition, methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium and cell counting kit‐8 assays were applied after GPNMB interference. Finally, the alternative splicing of GPNMB expression was analyzed using Splice Grapher software. The results indicated that HI induced marked neurological impairment and neuron injury in rats. Also, GPNMB was the most obviously upregulated gene in DEGs. Additionally, GPNMB was upregulated significantly in SY5Y and fetal neurons after OGD, and GPNMB‐si promoted an increase in cell viability and number. Moreover, we found that the GPNMB alternative splicing type was the Alternative 3′ splice site, with the alternative splicing site in 143382985:143404102. Herein, GPNMB promotes a crucial regulatory mechanism with alternative splicing for neuronal survival after NHIE.
Trade credit and corporate growth
Authors: Tingbani Ishmael , Afrifa Godfred Adjapong , Tauringana Venancio , Ntim Collins
Published: August 2022

While the underlying causal linkage between trade credit and corporate growth has mainly been explored, the primary factors that channel the relationship are limited. This article hypothesises a nonlinear relationship between trade credit and corporate growth due to the existing theoretical arguments on the benefit and cost of using suppliers' credit by corporations to enhance growth. Based on a panel of 23,023 non‐financial companies from the United Kingdom over a 10‐year period, evidence from this study reveals a nonlinear (concave) relation between trade credit and corporate growth: positive for low trade credit received and negative for high credit received. We also find trade credit to be sensitive to financial crisis, financial constraints and growth strategy. The predictability is stronger during a financial crisis, among financially constrained corporations and corporations pursuing an aggressive growth strategy. We also find growth to be higher in firms that move closer to achieving an optimal credit level. This relationship holds for both the above‐ and below‐optimal deviations. These findings have implications for a more balanced and nuanced view of trade credit management.
Automatic detection of three cell types in a microscope image based on deep learning
Authors: Li Dazhou , Zhang Yike , Zhou Bo , Gao Wei
Published: August 2022

With the continuous integration of deep learning and the technique of molecular biology, target detection models must accurately detect the position of each cell in the image and classify it correctly. We present a model for the multi‐scale feature fusion of the existing human cell image dataset based on Gaussian mixedly clustering. First, a novel feature extraction network for extracting preliminary features at picture multi scales was presented, which was based on a residual neural network with Instance Normalization and a Mish activation function. Second, the presented model adopts the idea of feature fusion and introduced a new type of feature fusion network to integrate feature graphs on different scales. Furthermore, a Gaussian hybrid clustering algorithm was proposed to cluster the hyperparameters. Based on the experimental results, the average accuracy of the proposed model in the human cell image dataset exceeds 0.96, which improves by 11.9% compared with the existing target detection methods in the same field. Experiments show that the proposed model had been adapted to datasets with uneven sample distribution, providing new ideas for research on medical images.
Porous Mg‐stabilized amorphous calcium carbonate as carrier for hydrophobic drugs
Authors: Liu Yi‐Ju , Li Shu‐Li , Chen Bryan Po‐Wen , Chien Ching‐Lun , Chan Jerry Chun Chung
Published: August 2022

In this work, we demonstrate that porous MgACC microspheres could be prepared in liposome solution containing zwitterionic and anionic lipids. We find that the lipid molecules incorporated into MgACC could be as high as 10 mass%. Because hydrophobic drugs are lipophilic, the porous MgACC has been exploited as the carriers of hydrophobic drugs. Using lecithin as the source of lipids and N‐(rhodamine‐6G)lactam‐ethylenediamine (R6GNCCN) as the model of hydrophobic drugs, the optimal loading capacity was found to be ca. 1.4 mass%. The release of R6GNCCN to a phosphate buffer at pH 7.4 was over 90% within 5 hr. The drug release profile could be attenuated by encapsulating the MgACC core by a CaP shell.
The role of Th9 CD4+ T cells and IL‐9 during primary Sjogren's syndrome
Authors: Yang Jie , Su Juan , Chai Kexia , Liu Huihui
Published: August 2022

Objective

The objective of this study is to investigate the expression levels of Th9 CD4+ T cells and IL‐9 secretion in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with primary Sjogren's syndrome. Further, this study aimed to investigate the role of Th9 cells in the occurrence and development of pSS.

Methods

A total of 20 pSS patients and 20 healthy people, matched with age and gender, were selected as the experimental and control group, respectively. Flow cytometry and ELISA were used to detect the expression of Th9 cytokines in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and IL‐9 in serum, respectively. These factors were then correlated to other clinical indicators.

Results

The levels of Th9 CD4+ T cells and IL‐9 of pSS patients were significantly higher than those of the control group. Th9 CD4+ T cells and IL‐9 levels in peripheral blood of pSS patients were negatively correlated with salivary flow rate, while IL‐9 level was positively correlated with globulin. The transcription levels of IL‐9 and immune‐related genes including IL‐4, IL‐7, IL‐17, SMAD3, STAT5 and JAK3 were dramatically increased in serum of pSS patients.

Conclusion

The expression levels of Th9 in peripheral blood and serum IL‐9 of patients with pSS were significantly increased, which were correlated with clinical immunological indexes. Together, these data suggest that Th9 cells and IL‐9 may be involved in the pathogenesis of pSS.
The settler colonial roots and neoliberal afterlife of Problem Behavior Theory
Authors: Di Castri Theo
Published: August 2022

Problem Behavior Theory (PBT) is an influential psychosocial theory that has shaped—and continues to shape—much research on adolescent development in the United States and abroad. It is the product of over a half‐century of research conducted by psychologists‐cum‐behavioral scientists Lee and Richard Jessor. This article engages two striking features of the history of PBT. First, it tracks how, and to what effect, a theory elaborated to explain the so‐called “deviant behavior” of a group of Native Americans was extended to explain the “problem behavior” of white, middle‐class, settler youth, before coming to circulate as a universal theory of adolescent behavior. Second, it explores how a theory that was meant to explain individual behaviors by connecting them to their larger social contexts came to be embraced by researchers who have been criticized for doing precisely the opposite. To do so, this article draws from Indigenous and Settler Colonial Studies scholarship and sheds light on how the logics of settler colonialism and neoliberalism have participated in the coproduction of PBT and its reception.
Socio‐economic impact of China's infrastructure‐led growth model in Africa: A case study of the Kenyan Standard Gauge Railway
Authors: Zhu Keren , Mwangi Ben , Hu Lynn
Published: August 2022

We assessed the perceived socio‐economic impact of the Kenyan Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), using an original survey with 132 experts and interviews with 91 community residents across five cities and towns. We found that local and international stakeholders prioritize socio‐economic impacts over other impact domains, while there remain local tensions between economic growth and environmental conservation. SGR significantly helped tourism and moderately enhanced employment, with winners and losers divided by business sizes, sectors and locations. To maximize positive impact, China's infrastructure‐led model may benefit from integrating physical infrastructure with supporting services and facilities to promote more equitable growth worldwide.
Rapid quantitative monitoring of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein‐mediated syncytia formation using split NanoLuc
Authors: Wang Hongliang , Guo Shangrui , Yang Hang
Published: August 2022

SARS‐CoV‐2 infection causes syncytial pneumocyte in patients and this has been considered as a defining feature of severe COVID‐19 cases. Traditional methods of syncytia quantification require the morphology characterization of fused cells either with light microscope or fluorescent microscope, which is time‐consuming and not accurate. Here we developed a rapid and sensitive coculture system measuring spike‐induced syncytia by using NanoLuc complementation system. We found the formation of syncytia occurred rapidly after ACE2‐expressing cells exposure to spike protein. In addition, we found furin cleavage as well as the cell surface protease TMPRSS2 enhanced syncytia formation. Finally, we showed that this coculture system can be used to test the ability of different compound to inhibit syncytia formation, thus providing a useful tool to screen anti‐syncytial drugs.
Prenatal Diagnosis of Structural Anomaly Among Singletons and Twins
Authors: Ting Yuan , Ting Zhang , Fei Zhao , Chun‐Fang Li , Zhen Han
Published: August 2022

Objectives

This study was designed to reveal structural abnormalities in singleton and twin pregnancies in the Chinese population.

Methods

This retrospective study spanned 8 years and included 1228 singleton pregnancies (112,919 examinees) and 49 twin pregnancies (1865 examinees) with structural anomalies diagnosed by ultrasound. Detailed descriptions of anomalies, gestational weeks at diagnosis, and maternal age were recorded. The odds ratio was evaluated in twin pregnancies with detectable structural anomalies.

Results

The annual average “ultrasound prevalence of fetal anomalies” among singleton and twin pregnancies were 1.09 and 3.06%, respectively. Mothers with twin anomalies were older (P < .001), and twin pregnancies were diagnosed with anomalies in earlier gestational weeks than singleton (P = .011). No differences were found in the types of anomalies between singleton and twin pregnancies. Central nervous system anomaly was the most common type in singleton and twin pregnancies. Twin pregnancies had higher rates of major anomalies than singleton (total OR 2.45), especially cardiovascular, central nervous, and gastrointestinal systems and ear/eye/face/neck disorders.

Conclusions

Compared with singleton, twin pregnancies had higher odds of detectable structural anomalies. Twin pregnancies with structural anomalies were diagnosed at earlier gestational age and associated with older maternal age. Central nervous system anomaly was the most common type in singleton and twin pregnancies.
Simulation of laryngotracheal reconstruction with 3D‐printed models and porcine cadaveric models
Authors: Falls Megan , Vincze Jonathan , Brown Joshua , Witsberger Chelsey , Discolo Christopher , Partain Matthew , Rosen Philip , Ting Jonathan , Zopf David
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR) is a complex operation used to treat subglottic stenosis. The use of simulator models is a valuable tool in surgical trainee education, particularly for operations such as LTR that are less common outside high‐volume centers. Three‐dimensional (3D) printing of the human airway may provide an effective and more accessible alternative to porcine cadaveric models. The objective of this study is to compare the educational value of a 3D‐printed model and a porcine cadaveric model as LTR simulation methods.

Methods

Simulated LTR procedures were completed by 12 otolaryngology residents and a faculty physician on the cadaveric model and the 3D‐printed simulator model. Both models were evaluated by fellowship‐trained pediatric otolaryngologists to establish construct validity. Pre‐procedure surveys of participants evaluated confidence and attitude toward models and post‐procedure surveys evaluated confidence, overall impressions, relevance, content validity, and face validity.

Results

Participants reported a similar mean increase in confidence after performing LTR on the 3D‐printed model (14%) and cadaveric model (11%). Participants rated both models similarly for utility as an overall training tool and in teaching surgical planning and improving operative techniques. However, participants found the 3D‐printed model more useful for teaching anatomy (p = .047).

Conclusion

3D‐printed models have practical benefits over cadaveric models; they do not decompose and can be custom made to model a disease state such as subglottic stenosis. Participants reported a similar mean increase in confidence after using either simulation. The 3D‐printed model is a promising simulation candidate as it compares well to an animal model and has the advantage of being more anatomically true to pediatric patients.

Level of Evidence: Level 2.
A Novel Strategy to Enhance the Electrochemical Performance of Polypyrrole‐Coated Paper‐Based Supercapacitor
Authors: Xiong Zihang , Fang Zhiqiang , Ding Zixian , Li Guanhui , Zhou Jie , Chen Kaihuang , Yang Dongjie , Qiu Xueqing
Published: August 2022

A novel strategy is proposed to enhance the electrochemical performance of polypyrrole (PPy)‐coated cellulose paper (PCP)‐based supercapacitor by increasing the reaction interface between hydrophobic pyrrole and hydrophilic FeCl3 solution. Paper is pretreated with regenerated cellulose (RC) to increase its specific surface area, which lays the foundation for increasing the reaction interface between pyrrole and FeCl3 in the following in situ polymerization while providing more adsorption sites for PPy. The RC‐pretreated paper is first impregnated with pyrrole, followed by removing surplus pyrrole occupied by the internal pores of paper prior to the impregnation of FeCl3 solution, aiming to increase the reaction interface between pyrrole and FeCl3 solution. Consequently, the as‐prepared PCP electrode exhibits a PPy loading of 4.2 mg cm−2, which is twofold higher than unpretreated PCP electrodes (2 mg cm−2). Moreover, a solid‐state supercapacitor assembled with PCP electrodes presents a 58  mF cm−2 areal capacitance at 2 mA cm−2 (equivalent to 140.5 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1), a 33.1 µWh cm−2 energy density at a power density of 0.60 mW cm−2, and excellent cycling stability with a capacitance retention of 91.6% after 10 000 CV cycles. This work offers a new insight toward improving the electrochemical performance of PCP‐based supercapacitor.
Suicide resilience, identity crisis and quality of life in burned adolescents
Authors: Mohammadi Fateme , Oshvandi Khodayar , Borzou Seyed Reza , Khodaveisi Masood , Khazaei Salman , Shokouhi Mohammad Reza , Nouri Fatemeh , Taheri Mohammad , Kalbasi Majid
Published: August 2022

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between identity crisis and suicide resilience and quality of life in adolescents with burns in Iranian society.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Four hundred thirty adolescents with burn in three hospitals were selected via convenience sampling. They completed questionnaires online. Data were analysed by SPSS software version 22.

Results

Findings showed a strong and inverse correlation between identity crisis with suicide resilience (r = −.92, p < .001) and quality of life (r = −.87, p < .001). Variables of suicide resilience, being a child of a divorced family, cause of burns, extent of burn, financial situation, gender and age can predict 68.74% of the variance in identity crisis in these patients.

Patient or Public Contribution

Adolescents with burns suffer from an identity crisis, and although they report high resilience to suicide, they have a mediocre quality of life. Therefore, it is suggested that basic planning and extensive support be taken to improve physical and mental health, promote the quality of life and consequently reduce the identity crisis in these adolescents.
Head injuries by firearms and sharp weapons in the Battle of San Martino (1859, Italy)
Authors: Minozzi Simona , Ghiroldi Valentina , Fornaciari Gino
Published: August 2022

The research was focused on the study of weapon‐related traumas in the skeletal remains of the soldiers who died in the Battle of San Martino (Italy, 1859). These remains are housed in the monumental ossuary of San Martino. The examination of 817 skulls revealed traces of injuries in 90 skulls, selected and submitted to anthropological studies. The aim of this work was to study the head injuries attributable to firearms and blade weapons in relation to the armaments and the military tactics used in that period.

The shape, size, and features of the wounds were macroscopically examined to characterize the lesions. As regards the ballistic traumas, the caliber, the trajectory of the projectiles, and the kind of artillery were based on the diameter and localization of the entry and of the exit holes in the skulls. The sharp force traumas were identified as linear‐edge cuts or pointed lesions. The results evidenced different types of perimortem injuries, principally caused by firearms (79%) with projectiles of different calibers, mostly ranging between 14 and 18 mm. Sharp force injuries probably caused by bayonets and sabers had affected 17.8% of the skulls. The remnant 2.2% of the examined skulls presented only antemortem lesions. Moreover, seven other skulls showed healed lesions, in some cases surgically treated, testifying a rather intense war period, and the capacity of the soldiers to survive even severe injuries. The higher prevalence of gunshot wounds with respect to sharp force traumas is consistent with the military tactics and with the weapons used in that period: hand‐to‐hand combat was restricted and bayonet assault was unsuccessful compared to the use of efficient ranged weapons. This research presents important information on war‐related traumas, ballistic wounds and sharp force injuries of the armaments, and the military tactics of the mid‐19th century.
R‐spondin‐3 is an oncogenic driver of poorly differentiated invasive breast cancer
Authors: ter Steege Eline J , Boer Mandy , Timmer Nikki C , Ammerlaan Carola ME , Song Ji‐Ying , Derksen Patrick WB , Hilkens John , Bakker Elvira RM
Published: August 2022

R‐spondins (RSPOs) are influential signaling molecules that promote the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway and self‐renewal of stem cells. Currently, RSPOs are emerging as clinically relevant oncogenes, being linked to cancer development in multiple organs. Although this has instigated the rapid development and testing of therapeutic antibodies targeting RSPOs, functional evidence that RSPO causally drives cancer has focused primarily on the intestinal tract. Here, we assess the oncogenic capacity of RSPO in breast cancer in a direct fashion by generating and characterizing a novel mouse model with conditional Rspo3 expression in the mammary gland. We also address the prevalence of RSPO gene alterations in breast cancer patients. We found that a quarter of breast cancer patients harbor RSPO2/RSPO3 copy number amplifications, which are associated with lack of steroid hormone receptor expression and reduced patient survival. Foremost, we demonstrate the causal oncogenic capacity of RSPO3 in the breast, as conditional Rspo3 overexpression consistently drives the development of mammary adenocarcinomas in our novel Rspo3 breast cancer model. RSPO3‐driven mammary tumors typically show poor differentiation, areas of epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition, and metastatic potential. Given the reported interplay in the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway, we comparatively analyzed RSPO3‐driven mouse mammary tumors versus classical WNT1‐driven analogues. This revealed that RSPO3‐driven tumors are distinct, as the poorly differentiated tumor morphology and metastatic potential were observed in RSPO3‐driven tumorigenesis exclusively, further substantiated by differentiating gene expression profiles. Co‐expression of Rspo3 and Wnt1 transduced mammary tumors with a mixed phenotype harboring morphological features characteristic of both transgenes. In summary, we report that a quarter of breast cancer patients harbor RSPO2/RSPO3 copy number gains, and these patients have a worse prognosis, whilst providing in vivo evidence that RSPO3 drives poorly differentiated invasive breast cancer in mice. Herewith, we establish RSPO3 as a driver of breast cancer with clinical relevance, proposing RSPO3 as a novel candidate target for therapy in breast cancer. © 2022 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Is there a role for melatonin in the treatment of schizophrenia?
Authors: Hardman Stephen , O'Mahony Elizabeth
Published: August 2022

Schizophrenia can be a severe and debilitating mental disorder with a complex and multifactorial pathophysiology. The neurobiological mechanisms that underpin this illness, alongside other mental disorders, remain elusive. It is recognised that many patients with schizophrenia suffer with disturbed sleep. Here we discuss the role of the physiologically occurring neurohormone, melatonin, in the treatment of sleep disturbances and other symptoms in schizophrenia.
Nuclear magnetic resonance structural characterization of sulfur‐derived copolymers from inverse vulcanization. Part 1: Styrene
Authors: Pyun Jeffrey , Carrozza Chiara Francesca , Silvano Selena , Boggioni Laura , Losio Simona , de Angelis Alberto Renato , O'Neil Parker Jr Wallace
Published: August 2022

Organosulfur polymers prepared via the inverse vulcanization of elemental sulfur with olefinic comonomers represent a new class of high‐chalcogenide content organic/inorganic macromolecules. Extensive reporting on new synthetic advances and materials derived from the inverse vulcanization process have been explored in the past decade. However, detailed structural analysis of these sulfur copolymers have not been rigorously conducted, due to the poor solubility of many of these materials, coupled with the numerous side‐reactions that result in complex microstructures from these synthetic methods. In the current report, we revisit analysis of the solution 13C NMR spectral data for poly(S‐r‐Sty) and identify for the first time previously unidentified carbon peaks that offer new insights into a corrected repeating unit structure of this sulfur copolymer.
Removal of Pb2+ from Wastewater By γ‐Fe2O3@SHFA Based on Alkali‐Modified Fly Ash: Performance and Mechanism
Authors: Wang Wen , Qi Liqiang , Yuan Hejin
Published: August 2022

A magnetic coagulant (γ‐Fe2O3@SHFA) is prepared by fly ash and magnetic seed (γ‐Fe2O3) doping to remove Pb2+ from wastewater. The optimum modification conditions and doping procedures are determined by three‐factor and single‐factor experiments, respectively. The coagulation mechanism and properties of γ‐Fe2O3@SHFA are investigated. The results show that when the coagulant dosage is 1.0 g L−1, pH = 5.0 ± 0.2, and the coagulation reaction time is 20 min, the maximum Pb2+ removal capacity can reach 88.72 mg g−1. The point of zero charge, zeta potential, Brunner Emmet Teller, scanning electron microscope, X‐ray diffraction, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicate that charge neutralization and bridging action play an important role in the removal process of Pb2+. Coagulation kinetic, isothermal, and thermodynamic analyses show that the removal behavior of the magnetic coagulant on Pb2+ is dominated by physical effects, and the coagulation process is spontaneous, endothermic, and irreversible. After five reuses, the Pb2+ removal capacity of γ‐Fe2O3@SHFA decreases from 73.55 to 51.11 mg g−1, which remains at a high level.
Formulation of citizen science approach for monitoring Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean water and sanitation for an Indian city
Authors: Venkatesh Baskaran , Velkennedy R
Published: August 2022

The United Nations acknowledges that action in one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will impact outcomes in others and that development should interact the social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Many countries have prioritized goals and targets based on their current progress and the prosperity of their people. This article focused on SDG 6: Clean water and sanitation, especially the first two (6.1 and 6.2) out of eight targets. The author has considered SDG 6, a critical goal to focus on and achieve in Tirunelveli city municipal corporation. The study area is situated in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, India's southernmost state. Citizen science (CS), also known as community science, has emerged as an effective method of collecting data and supporting a wide range of indicators from the SDG targets. The objective of this article is to utilize the benefit of the CS approach for monitoring the targets 6.1 and 6.2 pertained to drinking water and sanitation facilities respectively in the study area. The activities suggested for this SDG 6 CS project were framing the core question, identification of citizen scientists, data analysis, and action plan. College students, ward councilors, and community volunteers, referred to as three categories of citizen scientists, will collect household data for all 55 wards in the study area. The value of the collected data to various government agencies and monitoring organizations is also discussed.
Dye Decolorization by Rhodococcus ruber Strain TES III Isolated from Textile Effluent Wastewater Contaminated Soil
Authors: Kumari Sapna , Debnath Mousumi , Hari Sonawane Shirish , Teja Malkapuram Surya , Mohan Seepana Murali
Published: August 2022

Textile industries monopolize the use of synthetic and natural colors, claiming they are safe for the environment. These dyes have disastrous repercussions when released into the terrestrial and aquatic environment. The main purpose of the study was to isolate a biosurfactant‐producing bacterium from textile effluent‐contaminated soil and study its potential for dye degradation. Biosurfactant was extracted from Rhodococcus ruber strain TES III, a bacterium isolated from textile water contaminated soil. This biosurfactant‐producing bacterium was capable of decolorizing both synthetic dyes like methyl orange, methylene blue, and natural dyes like Indigo. There was a 2‐fold increase in methyl orange degradation after 48 hours, a 1‐fold increase in methylene blue degradation, and a 4.13‐fold increase in indigo dye degradation. Based on the foregoing data, we conclude that the biosurfactant‐producing bacteria Rhodococcus ruber strain TES III has a high potential for dye degradation and hence can be used in wastewater treatment of textile industries.
Facile Preparation of Silver‐decorated Graphene in Polyvinylidene Fluoride for Highly Enhanced Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Xu Zhaosheng , Bai Jia‐qi , Rao Changlv , Wu Mingyuan , Sun Song , Chen Jingshuai , Mao Chang‐Jie
Published: August 2022

Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is a highly non‐reactive thermoplastic fluoropolymer, which is widely used for lithium battery diaphragm coating. However, the temperature of working environment will be increased because of the heat generated by the battery during operation, it is urgent to prepare PVDF polymer composites with high thermal conductivity. Herein, we reported a simple and rapid “one‐pot” method for preparing silver nanoparticles (AgNP) modified graphene through in‐situ growth of AgNP between the gaps of graphene nanosheets (GNs). Moreover, the thermal conductivity of GNs/Ag powder was higher than that of GNs. Furthermore, GNs/Ag showed excellent thermal conductivity when it was mixed with PVDF, and the highest thermal conductivity of 0.679 W/(mK) was obtained for graphene/silver‐polyvinylidene fluoride (GNs/Ag‐PVDF) nanocomposites, which was 2.22 times as high as that of pure PVDF. This work will provide a promising solution to solve the problem of heat dissipation for lithium batteries and other electronic components during practical application.
Protonation of Guanine:5‐Methylcytosine and Guanine:Cytosine Base Pairs in Duplex Oligodeoxyribonucleotides
Authors: González‐Olvera Julio C. , Fiala Radovan , Pless Reynaldo C.
Published: August 2022

NMR‐ and UV‐monitored acid titrations conducted on short model oligodeoxyribonucleotide duplexes demonstrate the protonation of guanine:5‐methylcytosine and guanine:cytosine base pairs at the O2 position of the cytosine base, at pH values close to 7, without disruption of the general duplex structure. In the NMR technique, this protonation transition is most clearly observed by monitoring the 5‐methylcytosine‐H6 resonance, while pH effects on the 5‐methylcytosine methyl group, on guanine‐H8, and on the cytosine‐H5 and ‐H6 resonances are small. The local sequences GMeCG, TMeCT, and TCT show decreasing basicity, in this order. The basicity of the G:MeC base pair is almost unaffected by ionic strength. Under more acidic conditions, adenine:thymine base pairs may be similarly protonated at the adenine base. Hydrogens on thymine bases contained in single‐stranded oligonucleotides are strongly affected by the protonation of near‐by bases. The results posit that canonical double‐stranded DNA is protonated to a significant extent at certain sites under physiological conditions.