bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear analysis of radio‐frequency quadrature two‐stage ring oscillators
Authors: Fekih‐Ahmed Lazhar
Published: July 2021

We provide a rigorous nonlinear analysis of a large class of radio‐frequency (RF) two‐stage differential ring oscillators. We show that the oscillator's behavior can be recast into the classical Hopf planar dynamical system. Relying on well‐known results for such systems, we give a thorough investigation of the oscillator behavior under noise. We also provide compact analytical expressions for all relevant design measures, offering the designer straightforward guidelines for two‐stage ring oscillators. These expressions predict amplitude, frequency, period jitter, and phase noise very accurately. The formulas are validated for three popular differential delay cells using SPICE simulations.
Grow slowly, persist, dominate—Explaining beech dominance in a primeval forest
Authors: Petrovska Roksolana , Brang Peter , Gessler Arthur , Bugmann Harald , Hobi Martina Lena
Published: July 2021

Being able to persist in deep shade is an important characteristic of juvenile trees, often leading to a strong dominance of shade‐tolerant species in forests with low canopy turnover and a low disturbance rate. While leaf, growth, and storage traits are known to be key components of shade tolerance, their interplay during regeneration development and their influence on juveniles' survival time remains unclear. We assessed the ontogenetic effects of these three traits on the survival time of beech (Fagus sylvatica), and Norway and sycamore maples (Acer pseudoplatanus, Acer platanoides) in a primeval beech forest. Biomass allocation, age, and content of nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) were measured in the stems and roots of 289 seedlings and saplings in high‐ and low‐vitality classes. Saplings experienced a trade‐off between absolute growth rate (AGR) and storage (NSC) as the leaf area ratio (LAR) decreases with biomass development. High LAR but low AGR and low NSC corresponded to beech with a marked ability to persist in deep shade while awaiting canopy release. In turn, a comparably small LAR in combination with a high AGR and higher storage (NSC), as observed in Norway maple and sycamore maple, reduced sapling survival time, thus offering an explanation for beech dominance and maple disappearance in the undergrowth of old‐growth beech forests.
Quantifying lost and inaccessible habitat for Pacific salmon in Canada’s Lower Fraser River
Authors: Finn Riley J. R. , Chalifour Lia , Gergel Sarah E. , Hinch Scott G. , Scott David C. , Martin Tara G.
Published: July 2021

Loss of connectivity caused by anthropogenic barriers is a key threat for migratory freshwater species. The anadromous life history of salmonids means that barriers on streams can decrease the amount of habitat available for spawning and rearing. To set appropriate targets for restoration, it is important to know how different populations have been impacted in terms of the location and extent of historically available habitat that has been lost or has become inaccessible. Using mapped and predicted barriers to fish passage in streams and diking infrastructure, the amount of both floodplain and linear stream habitat that remains accessible today was estimated for 14 populations of salmon in the Lower Fraser River, British Columbia, Canada’s most productive salmon river. To place these estimates within a historical context, the floodplain area was estimated using vegetation records from the 1850s, and lost streams were estimated using a digital elevation model‐derived stream network. To bolster areas where little mapping has been done, current barrier data were used to predict locations likely to have barriers. Accessibility to floodplain was poor across the entire region with only 15% of the historical floodplain remaining accessible. Linear stream habitat ranged in accessibility from 28% to 99% across populations based on mapped barriers. Inclusion of predicted barriers revealed an additional 33 km of potentially inaccessible stream habitat and the modeled stream network located approximately 1700 km of stream length that has been completely lost. Comparing habitat accessibility and barrier density against the assessed status of populations revealed insights useful for understanding the impact of barriers on spawning and rearing and guiding the allocation of restoration effort. Applying methods for addressing missing data, such as lost streams and unmapped barriers, was essential for estimating the accessibility of habitat within a historical context. While much emphasis has been placed on the role of marine conditions in wild Pacific salmon recovery, the magnitude of habitat loss in the Fraser cannot be ignored and suggests it is a major driver of observed salmon declines.
N→Ge Coordinated Germylenes as Ligands for Monomeric Cu Complexes
Authors: Vítek Dominik , Dostál Libor , Růžička Aleš , Mikysek Tomáš , Jambor Roman
Published: July 2021

Synthesis of monomeric Cu complexes stabilized by the N→Ge coordinated germylene L(Cl)Ge (L=2‐Et2NCH2‐4,6‐tBu2‐C6H2) is reported. The reactions of the [L(Cl)Ge]2CuI (1) with AgX provided the complexes [L(Cl)Ge]2CuX (X=2: X=OAc, 3: X=OTf) by selective substitution of the CuI bond. In contrast, the reaction of 1 with K[BEt3H] provided [L(H)Ge]2CuI (4), the product of selective substitution of the GeCl bonds. The 4 represents the first example of Cu complex stabilized by two organogermaniun hydrides [L(H)Ge].
Ionic Liquids with Multi‐Active Sites Synergistically Catalyzed Metal‐Free Transformation of Alcohols Using Dimethyl Carbonate as an Environmental Solvent
Authors: Li Zengmin , Wen Yating , Wang Ning , Han Feng , Li Ying , Zhuang Hongfeng , Miao Chengxia
Published: July 2021

One of the ultimate goals in organic synthesis is to develop metal‐free, efficient and easily separable catalytic system for atom economic organic reactions in an environmental solvent. Direct substitution reaction of alcohols and hydrocarbon compounds is a significant and atom economic method for C−C bond formation. Herein, a metal‐free and efficient catalytic system including recyclable pyridine‐based ionic liquids with multiple active sites as the catalyst and dimethyl carbonate as the environmentally friendly solvent was developed for atom economic C3 substitution of 4‐hydroxycoumarins with alcohols. Primary aromatic alcohols, secondary aliphatic and aromatic alcohols were suitable for the reaction, providing up to 99 % yield. The catalytic system could be easily scaled up to gram‐scale with nearly quantitative yield. Coumatetralyl as commercial rodenticide could be prepared directly from commercially available 4‐hydroxycoumarin and 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydronaphthalen‐1‐ol. Racemic product derived from the reaction of (R)‐1‐phenylethanol and 4‐hydroxycoumarin indicated the reaction was achieved through an SN1 pathway. The comparison of the activities and acidities of the ionic liquids demonstrated that there was no directly relationship between them. Control experiments showed that the reaction probably proceeded via carbocation, ether intermediate and synergistically promoted effect of hydrogen bonding between the ionic liquid with multi‐active sites and substrates.
Preparation of immobilized arylsulfatase on magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles and its application for agar quality improvement
Authors: Zhang Chenghao , Jiang Zedong , Li Hebin , Ni Hui , Zheng Mingjing , Li Qingbiao , Zhu Yanbing
Published: July 2021

The presence of sulfate groups in agar compromises the agar quality by affecting the crosslinking during gelling process. Some arylsulfatases can catalyze the hydrolysis of sulfate bonds in agar to improve the agar quality. Immobilized arylsulfatases prove beneficial advantages for their industrial applications. Here, a previously characterized mutant arylsulfatase K253H/H260L was immobilized on the synthesized magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles after functionalization by tannic acid (MNPs@TA). The surface properties and molecular structures of the immobilized arylsulfatase (MNPs@TA@ARS) were examined by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Enzymatic characterization showed that MNPs@TA@ARS exhibited shifted optimal temperature and pH with deviated apparent Km and Vmax compared to its free counterpart. The immobilized arylsulfatase demonstrated improved thermal and pH stability and enhanced storage stability with modest reusability. In addition, MNPs@TA@ARS displayed enhanced tolerance to various inhibitors and detergents. The utilization of the immobilized arylsulfatase for agar desulfation brought the treated agar with improved quality.
Prediction of top round beef meat tenderness as a function of marinating time based on commonly evaluated parameters and regression equations
Authors: Rostamani Mohammadreza , Baghaei Homa , Bolandi Marzieh
Published: July 2021

This study investigates the influence of 24‐hr marination (with different plant extracts and vinegar) at refrigerated conditions on commonly evaluated physicochemical and textural attributes, including pH, water‐holding capacity (WHC), collagen solubility, moisture, drip loss, and shear force values of beef meat. The results reflected the appropriate correlation between each pair and indicated the efficiency of the household marination procedure to acquire more palatability and tender beef meat. Therefore, to predict beef meat tenderness by applying the Warner–Bratzler shear force (WBSF), a strong positive correlation with the drip loss (p < .01) and a notable negative correlation with the moisture content (p < .01) emphasized the importance of moisture improvement and shear force reduction in affecting tenderness of baked beef meat. The regression equations and R‐squared values were revealed the favorable correlation between collagen solubility and WHC (y = 0.1035x−0.8431, R2 = .98) as well as moisture and WBSF (y = −0.3297x + 102.58, R2 = .99) in marinated beef meat. Electrophoresis patterns of isolated myofibrillar proteins disclosed remarkable degradation of myosin heavy chain (MHC), desmin, actin, and tropomyosin during the first day of aging. The noticeable ultrastructural destruction and connective tissue solubilization were observed by microscopy images. These outcomes were a good tenderness predictor be utilized in retailing and industrial scale.
The impact of environmental and occupational exposures of manganese on pulmonary, hepatic, and renal functions
Authors: Gandhi Deepa , Rudrashetti Ashwinkumar P. , Rajasekaran Subbiah
Published: July 2021

Manganese (Mn) is an essential trace element for humans, but long‐term environmental or occupational exposures can lead to numerous health problems. Although many studies have identified an association between Mn exposures and neurological abnormalities, emerging data suggest that occupationally and environmentally relevant levels of Mn may also be linked to multiple organ dysfunction in the general population. In this regard, many experimental and clinical studies provide support for a causal link between Mn exposure and structural and functional changes that are responsible for organ dysfunction in major organs like lung, liver, and kidney. The underlying mechanisms suggested to Mn toxicity include altered activities of the components of intracellular signaling cascades, oxidative stress, apoptosis, affected cell cycle regulation, autophagy, angiogenesis, and an inflammatory response. We further discussed the sources and possible mechanisms of Mn absorption and distribution in different organs. Finally, treatment strategies available for treating Mn toxicity as well as directions for future studies were discussed.
The cell membrane as the barrier in the defense against nanoxenobiotics: Zinc oxide nanoparticles interactions with native and model membrane of melanoma cells
Authors: Czyżowska Agnieszka , Barbasz Anna , Rudolphi‐Szydło Elżbieta , Dyba Barbara
Published: July 2021

Currently, we are dealing with ever‐increasing pollution of the environment with metal and metal oxide nanoparticles. One type of these, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO‐NPs), are increasingly used in areas such as cosmetology, electrical engineering, medicine, and even in the food and textile industries. As a consequence, ZnO‐NPs may enter the human body in many ways. Their influence on the body is still not clear. Here, we define the mechanism of the initial toxicity of ZnO‐NPs to cells based on interaction with the lipid part of the native and model cell membrane. The selected cell lines react differently to contact with nanoparticles. We found a disruption of the native membranes of B16‐F0 cells and to a lesser extent of COLO 679. In turn, the membrane of COLO 679 cells was more peroxidated, and cell viability was much lower. A model of the lipid part of the membrane was created for B16‐F0 cells and compared with previously published studies on immune cells. On the basis of physicochemical parameters obtained for individual lipids and a mix representing the native membrane of the tested cells, we concluded that exposure to nanoparticles resulted in a change within the model membranes (specifically with the polar parts of lipids). The greatest interaction has been noticed between ZnO‐NPs and zwitterionic phospholipids (PC and PE), cholesterol, and negatively charged phosphatidylglycerol. Assessing the interactions between the membrane and nanoparticles will help to better understand the first steps of its toxicity mechanism.
A mixed‐methods approach to understanding trajectories of mentoring relationship growth
Authors: Spiekermann Lara , Lyons Michael , Deutsch Nancy
Published: July 2021

The proposed study integrates quantitative and qualitative approaches to examine mentors with different relationship trajectories reflect on their relationships. Using quantitative and qualitative methods, mentor reports of relationship quality are plotted over time and different growth patterns identified: (1) progressive, (2) stable‐high, (3) dip and recovery, (4) stable‐low, and (5) regressive. Qualitative coding was used to identify patterns in mentors' descriptions of their relationship experiences—including both what mentors wrote about and how they wrote about it.
Regulation of autophagy by protein methylation and acetylation in cancer
Authors: Jeon Minsol , Park Jisu , Yang Eunbi , Baek Hee‐ji , Kim Hyunkyung
Published: July 2021

Autophagy is a highly conserved mechanism responsible for cellular homeostasis and integrity in a variety of physiological conditions. Materials targeted for degradation are directed to autophagosomes and autolysosomes, where they are broken down into their base components. Aberrant regulation of autophagy is significantly associated with various cancers and neurodegenerative diseases. Recently, accumulating evidence has revealed that the coordinated regulation of histone and non‐histone protein modification is associated with autophagy. In this review, we highlight the recent progress that has been made in elucidating the molecular basis of protein methylation and acetylation associated with autophagy at the transcriptional and posttranslational levels. Furthermore, we discuss the importance of describing causality between protein methylation/acetylation and autophagy regulation as compelling therapeutic opportunities in cancer pathogenesis and progression.
Design and evaluation of a touchscreen apparatus for operant research with pigeons
Authors: Toegel Forrest , Toegel Cory , Perone Michael
Published: July 2021

We developed a touchscreen apparatus for pigeons and conducted a series of experiments that assessed its utility for free‐operant procedures. The apparatus incorporated an on‐board Windows computer, an electromechanical interface, an amplified speaker, and the touchscreen. We found that merely projecting a virtual key on the screen was insufficient; too many pecks missed the key. Adding a visual target in the center of the key and providing visual feedback for on‐key pecks both failed to improve response accuracy. Accuracy was improved by imposing a timeout after off‐key pecks or providing a physical boundary around the key. With the physical boundary, response accuracy was comparable to that obtained with conventional plastic keys, and response acquisition via autoshaping also was comparable. Mixing the color elements of the screen's pixels produced color stimuli, but the colors did not function as pure wavelengths of light in tests of stimulus generalization. Both colors and geometric shapes functioned as discriminative stimuli in multiple schedules with variable‐interval and extinction components or rich and lean fixed‐ratio components. In general, our touchscreen apparatus is a viable alternative to conventional pigeon chambers and increases the experimenter's options for visual stimuli, auditory stimuli, and the number and location of response keys.
Arylquinolinecarboxamides: Synthesis, in vitro and in silico studies against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Bokosi Fostino R. B. , Beteck Richard M. , Jordaan Audrey , Seldon Ronnet , Warner Digby F. , Tshiwawa Tendamudzimu , Lobb Kevin , Khanye Setshaba D.
Published: July 2021

A series of fourteen 6‐substituted‐2‐(methoxyquinolin‐3‐yl) methyl)‐N‐(pyridin‐3‐ylmethyl) benzamides was prepared from commercially available anilines in five simple and convenient synthetic steps. The structures of all new products were confirmed by routine spectroscopic methods: IR, 1H and 13C NMR, and HRMS (electrospray ionization). The resulting arylquinolinecarboxamides were subjected to biological screening assay for in vitro inhibitory activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) H37Rv strain. Several compounds exhibited modest antitubercular activity with compounds 8–11, 15 and 19 exhibiting MIC90 values in the range of 32–85 μM. The antitubercular data suggested that inhibition of Mtb can be imparted by the introduction of a non‐polar substituent on C‐6 of the quinoline scaffold. Further, to understand the possible mode of action of the series, the reported compounds and bedaquiline were subjected to in silico docking studies against MtbATPase to determine their potential to interfere with the mycobacterial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase. The results showed that these compounds have the potential to serve as antimycobacterial agents. In silico ADME pharmacokinetic prediction results showed the ability of these arylquinolinecarcboxamides to be absorbed, distributed, metabolized and excreted efficiently.
Perceived Racism and Discrimination Among People of Color: An Ethnographic Content Analysis
Authors: Evans Amanda M. , Hemmings Carrie , Ramsay‐Seaner Kristine , Barnett Juanita
Published: July 2021

As the counseling profession calls for multicultural competence, it is important to examine racial discrimination. We used ethnographic content analysis to examine the lived experiences of 28 people of color regarding racial discrimination. Themes derived from this study included stereotypes and racial profiling, exclusion or denigration, denial of institutional power and privilege, insults regarding physical appearance and language, and internalized racism. Recommendations for researchers and counselors are discussed.

Dada la demanda de competencia multicultural en el ejercicio profesional de la consejería, es importante examinar la discriminación racial. Usamos un análisis de contenido etnográfico para examinar las experiencias vitales de 28 personas de color en cuanto a discriminación racial. Los temas derivados de este estudio incluyen estereotipos y caracterización racial, exclusión o denigración, negación de poder institucional y privilegios, insultos relacionados con la apariencia física y el idioma, así como el racismo interiorizado. Se discuten las recomendaciones para investigadores y consejeros.
The Effect of Multicultural Acceptance on Social Problem Solving Among University Students
Authors: Lee Oan Na , Song Chiang‐Soon
Published: July 2021

This study examined the effect of multicultural acceptance on social problem solving in a sample of 159 university students in South Korea. A simple regression analysis revealed that multicultural acceptance significantly predicted social problem solving. Specifically, multicultural acceptance positively predicted positive problem orientation and rational problem solving. On the other hand, multicultural acceptance negatively predicted negative problem orientation, impulsivity‐carelessness style, and avoidance style. The limitations and implications of the results are discussed.

Este estudio examinó el efecto de la aceptación multicultural sobre la resolución de problemas sociales en una muestra de 159 estudiantes universitarios en Corea del Sur. Un análisis de regresión simple reveló que la aceptación multicultural predijo significativamente la resolución de problemas sociales. Concretamente, la aceptación multicultural predijo de forma positiva una orientación positiva hacia los problemas y una resolución racional de los mismos. Por otra parte, la aceptación multicultural predijo de forma negativa una orientación negativa hacia los problemas, un estilo impulsivo‐descuidado y un estilo de evasión. Se discuten las limitaciones e implicaciones de los resultados.
Diagnostic accuracy of prospectively gated, 128‐slice or greater CTCA at high heart rates: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mander Gordon T.W. , Dobeli Karen , Steffensen Caitlin , Munn Zachary
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Prospectively gated 64‐slice CT coronary angiography (CTCA) may be contraindicated for heart rates (HRs) over 65 beats per minute (bpm) due to reduced diagnostic sensitivity. Newer CT scanners typically provide 128 or more slices and superior temporal resolution compared with older models; consequently, diagnostic accuracy for current technology prospectively gated CTCA may be adequate at HRs above 65 bpm. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of CTCA using 128‐slice or greater CT technology when compared with conventional coronary angiography for patients with HRs >65 bpm.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Scopus was performed as well as unpublished databases, sources and reference lists. Titles and abstracts were screened by two independent reviewers. Full‐text screening was then performed. Studies that determined diagnostic accuracy of coronary artery stenosis in adult patients with high heart rates utilising prospectively gated 128 detector or greater scanners were included. Studies that were included in the review underwent critical appraisal using the QUADAS‐2 tool.

Results

Ten studies were included in the systematic review, with nine of these included in a diagnostic test accuracy meta‐analysis, including six of which reported data at the patient level. Meta‐analysis indicated very high pooled sensitivity 100% (95% CI 0.99, 1.00); however, pooled specificity was less at 79% (95% CI 0.69, 0.88).

Conclusions

Prospectively gated CT coronary angiography may be justifiable at heart rates above 65 bpm if performed on a 128‐slice or greater CT unit. Caution regarding the implication of a positive result is recommended due to reduced specificity. Further evidence is required before consideration of a new higher heart threshold.
Novel Multidisciplinary Salivary Gland Society (MSGS) Questionnaire: An International Consensus
Authors: Buchholzer Samanta , Faure Frédéric , Tcheremissinoff Livia , Herrmann François R. , Lombardi Tommaso , Ng Siu‐Kwan , Lopez Jean‐Michel , Borner Urs , Witt Robert L. , Irvine Robert , Abboud Olivier , Cernea Claudio R. , Ghan Shirish , Matsunobu Takeshi , Ahmad Zahoor , Morton Randall , Anicin Aleksandar , Magdy Emad A. , Al Abri Rashid , Konstantinidis Iordanis , Capaccio Pasquale , Klein Hila , Poorten Vincent Vander , Lombardi Davide , Lyons Bernard , Al Rand Hussain , Liao George , Kim Jeong K. , Subha Sethu , Su Richard Y.‐X. , Su Chin‐Hui , Boselie Franciscus , Andre Raphaël , Seebach Jörg D. , Marchal Francis
Published: July 2021

Objectives

First, establishment and validation of a novel questionnaire documenting the burden of xerostomia and sialadenitis symptoms, including quality of life. Second, to compare two versions regarding the answering scale (proposed developed answers Q3 vs. 0–10 visual analogue scale Q10) of our newly developed questionnaire, in order to evaluate their comprehension by patients and their reproducibility in time.

Study Design

The study is a systematic review regarding the evaluation of the existing questionnaire and a cohort study regarding the validation of our new MSGS questionnaire.

Materials and Methods

A Multidisciplinary Salivary Gland Society (MSGS) questionnaire consisting of 20 questions and two scoring systems was developed to quantify symptoms of dry mouth and sialadenitis. Validation of the questionnaire was carried out on 199 patients with salivary pathologies (digestive, nasal, or age‐related xerostomia, post radiation therapy, post radioiodine therapy, Sjögren's syndrome, IgG4 disease, recurrent juvenile parotitis, stones, and strictures) and a control group of 66 healthy volunteers. The coherence of the questionnaire's items, its reliability to distinguish patients from healthy volunteers, its comparison with unstimulated sialometry, and the time to fill both versions were assessed.

Results

The novel MSGS questionnaire showed good internal coherence of the items, indicating its pertinence: the scale reliability coefficients amounted to a Cronbach's alpha of 0.92 for Q10 and 0.90 for Q3. The time to complete Q3 and Q10 amounted, respectively, to 5.23 min (±2.3 min) and 5.65 min (±2.64 min) for patients and to 3.94 min (±3.94 min) and 3.75 min (±2.11 min) for healthy volunteers. The difference between Q3 and Q10 was not significant.

Conclusion

We present a novel self‐administered questionnaire quantifying xerostomia and non‐tumoral salivary gland pathologies. We recommend the use of the Q10 version, as its scale type is well known in the literature and it translation for international use will be more accurate. Laryngoscope, 132:322–331, 2022
ATH434Reduces α‐Synuclein‐Related Neurodegeneration in a Murine Model of Multiple System Atrophy
Authors: Heras‐Garvin Antonio , Refolo Violetta , Schmidt Claudio , Malfertheiner Katja , Wenning Gregor K. , Bradbury Margaret , Stamler David , Stefanova Nadia
Published: July 2021

Background

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by aggregated α‐synuclein (α‐syn) in oligodendrocytes and accompanied by striatonigral and olivopontocerebellar degeneration and motor symptoms. Key features of MSA are replicated in the PLP‐α‐syn transgenic mouse, including progressive striatonigral degeneration and motor deterioration. There are currently no approved treatments for MSA. ATH434 is a novel, orally bioavailable brain penetrant small molecule inhibitor of α‐syn aggregation.

Objectives

To characterize ATH434 for disease modification in a mouse model of MSA.

Methods

Six‐month‐old PLP‐α‐syn mice (MSA mice) were ATH434‐treated (ATH434 in food) or untreated (normal food) for 6 months. Motor behavior and numbers of nigral and striatal neurons were evaluated. α‐syn aggregates and oligomers were quantified by immunohistochemical and western blot analyses. Microglial activation and neuroinflammation were assessed by histological and molecular analyses. Ferric iron in the Substantia nigra was evaluated with the Perls method.

Results

ATH434‐treated mice demonstrated preservation of motor performance in MSA mice that was associated with neuroprotection of nigral and striatal neurons. The rescue of the phenotype correlated with the reduction of α‐syn inclusions and oligomers in animals receiving ATH434. ATH434‐treated mice exhibited significantly increased lysosomal activity of microglia without increased pro‐inflammatory markers, suggesting a role in α‐syn clearing. ATH434‐treatment was associated with lower intracellular nigral iron levels.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate the beneficial disease‐modifying effect of ATH434 in oligodendroglial α‐synucleinopathy on both the motor phenotype and neurodegenerative pathology in the PLP‐α‐syn transgenic mouse and support the development of ATH434 for MSA. © 2021 The Authors.Movement Disorderspublished by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
How reliable are TIGGE daily deterministic precipitation forecasts over different climate and topographic conditions of Iran?
Authors: Amini Setareh , Azizian Asghar , Daneshkar Arasteh Peyman
Published: July 2021

Accurate forecasting of precipitation has been a very crucial issue for developing meteorological and hydrological early warning systems. Ensemble forecasts using numerical weather prediction models are promising for these purposes. This research addressed the reliability of global precipitation forecasts of the THORPEX (The Observing System Research and Predictability Experiment) Interactive Grand Global Ensemble (TIGGE) archive over distinct climate and topographic regions of Iran. Besides, post‐processing the raw forecasts and assessing TIGGE datasets' performance in predicting extreme rainfall events, at the thresholds of 10–20, 20–50, 50–100, and higher than 100 mm, are other objectives of this study. Results indicated that the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) and Meteo France forecasts, with the mean correlation coefficients (CCs) of 0.64 and 0.61, were closer to the ground‐gauge observations, especially in different types of humid zones. On the contrary, in semi‐arid and extra‐arid climate zones, the CC value was relatively low. Furthermore, Meteo France, Korea Meteorological Administration, Japan Meteorological Agency and ECMWF outperformed other models in detecting rainy or non‐rainy days. Also, by increasing the elevation, the correlation between forecasts and in situ observations increased significantly, and the percentage increment of CC for ECMWF and Meteo France models is higher than 38%. Moreover, the skill of predictions for extreme events (higher than 50 mm) decreased meaningfully, while at the thresholds of 10–20 and 20–50 mm, ECMWF and China Meteorological Administration outperformed other models. Finally, post‐processing of raw forecasts using quantile mapping improved the CC and relative bias metrics up to 30% and 51%, respectively, especially in extra‐arid, semi‐arid and Mediterranean climate zones.
Manipulating pattern periods via external bias for graphene‐based THz Dual‐Band absorber
Authors: Aghaee Toktam , Orouji Ali A.
Published: July 2021

Electrical control of terahertz (THz) radiation for high‐performance THz imaging is the key point. The spectrum suffers from a lack of active and available materials such as graphene have a severely limited bias range leading to restricted tuning. Therefore, here we demonstrated an efficient tunable device exploiting a triple bias layer for patterned graphene ribbons. Here, the patterned graphene acts as a tunable surface impedance leads to electrically controlled impedance matching between the device and free space. So, a dual‐band absorption is obtained which is appropriately robust against incident angle and capable of adjusting absorption peaks. The major contribution of the design is capability of manipulating patterns periods via gate biasing. This causes providing additional degree of freedom compared to conventional graphene patterns. According to the simulation results, the proposed device shows excellent tuning operation via gate bias voltages.
A Fibonacci series‐inspired‐elliptically‐slotted CPW fed UWB patch antenna with Ku band‐reject characteristics
Authors: Behera Ananda Kumar , Konhar Diptimayee , Mishra Debasis , Mishra Suvendu Narayan
Published: July 2021

This letter introduces a compact elliptically‐slotted patch antenna with Ku band reject characterizes. The proposed antenna works in the super wide range of frequency band stretched beyond the UWB. The slots in the radiating patch take the shape of ellipse and are present in such a manner that the double of their ellipticity follow the Fibonacci series. The perturbed‐diamond‐shaped patch without the slot radiates in the frequency range from 4.19 to 21.88 GHz with a bandwidth of 17.67 GHz. The same patch antenna with the elliptical‐slots rejects Ku band from 12.89 to 16.22 GHz. We have analyzed the notch frequency variation with respect to the slot area using Ansys HFSS V.20 electromagnetic simulator software for verification.
Comparison of muscle mass and quality between metabolically healthy and unhealthy phenotypes
Authors: Kim Hong‐Kyu , Lee Min Jung , Kim Eun Hee , Bae Sung‐Jin , Kim Kyung Won , Kim Chul‐Hee
Published: July 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine whether higher skeletal muscle mass is associated with a metabolically healthy phenotype and whether muscle quality affects metabolic health.

Methods

This cross‐sectional analysis included 20,659 participants (7,966 women) who underwent abdominal computed tomography scans during health checkups. The total abdominal muscle area (TAMA) on the third lumbar vertebral level was demarcated. Intermuscular adipose tissue and skeletal muscle area were measured. The skeletal muscle area was divided into normal attenuation muscle area (NAMA) and low attenuation muscle area (LAMA). The NAMA/TAMA index was calculated. The metabolically unhealthy phenotype was defined as having two or more components of metabolic syndrome or the presence of hypertension or diabetes.

Results

TAMA and skeletal muscle area were not significantly different or even lower in metabolically healthy phenotypes compared with metabolically unhealthy phenotypes. However, metabolically healthy phenotypes had significantly higher NAMA (except in women with obesity) and NAMA/TAMA index than in the metabolically unhealthy phenotypes. In people without obesity, lower NAMA/TAMA index was independently associated with higher risk of the metabolically unhealthy phenotype in the fully adjusted model.

Conclusions

The metabolically healthy phenotypes had more good‐quality muscles than did the metabolically unhealthy phenotypes. These results suggest that not only muscle mass but also muscle quality (i.e., degree of myosteatosis) are associated with metabolic health.
Pediatric flexible bronchoscopy in the intensive care unit: A multicenter study
Authors: Atag Emine , Unal Fusun , Yazan Hakan , Girit Saniye , Uyan Zeynep Seda , Ergenekon Almala Pınar , Yayla Esra , Merttürk Edanur , Telhan Leyla , Meral Özge , Kucuk Hanife Busra , Gunduz Mehmet , Gokdemir Yasemin , Erdem Eralp Ela , Kiyan Gursu , Cakir Erkan , Ersu Refika , Karakoc Fazilet , Oktem Sedat
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Flexible bronchoscopy (FB) is frequently used for assessment and treatment of patients with respiratory diseases. Our aim was to investigate the contribution of FB to diagnosis and therapy in children admitted to the intensive care units (ICU) and to evaluate the safety of FB in this vulnerable population.

Methods

Children less than 18 years of age who underwent FB in the five neonatal and pediatric ICUs in Istanbul between July 1st, 2015 and July 1st, 2020 were included to the study. Demographic and clinical data including bronchoscopy indications, findings, complications, and the contribution of bronchoscopy to the management were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

One hundred and ninety‐six patients were included to the study. The median age was 5 months (range 0.3–205 months). The most common indication of FB was extubation failure (38.3%), followed by suspected airway disease. Bronchoscopic assessments revealed at least one abnormality in 90.8% patients. The most common findings were airway malacia and the presence of excessive airway secretions (47.4% and 35.7%, respectively). Positive contribution of FB was identified in 87.2% of the patients. FB had greater than 1 positive contribution in 138 patients and 80.6% of the patients received a new diagnosis. Medical therapy was modified after the procedure in 39.8% and surgical interventions were pursued in 40% of the patients. Therapeutic lavage was achieved in 18.9%. There were no major complications.

Conclusion

Flexible bronchoscopy is a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tool in neonatal and pediatric ICUs and is not associated with major complications.
Investigation of Sputter‐Deposited Thin Films of Lithium Phosphorous Sulfuric Oxynitride (LiPSON) as Solid Electrolyte for Electrochromic Devices
Authors: Lupo Christian , Michel Fabian , Kuhl Florian , Su Yurong , Becker Martin , Polity Angelika , Schlettwein Derck
Published: July 2021

Lithium phosphorus sulfuric oxide nitride (LiPSON) prepared by radio frequency sputtering is investigated as a transparent solid lithium‐ion conductor for use in all‐solid‐state electrochromic (EC) devices. The LiPSON layers are characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and their electrical characteristics are studied by temperature‐dependent impedance spectroscopy. Half‐cells of LiPSON deposited on tungsten oxide (WOx) in contact with 1 m LiClO4 in propylene carbonate are studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and spectroelectrochemical measurements by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. A significant influence of LiPSON deposition conditions on the EC characteristics of WOx is observed in the achievable transparency change, as well as the color impression in the bleached and colored state. Formation of a solid−electrolyte interface (SEI) is indicated that leads to poor EC performance with long switching times of 20−60 min. Appropriate deposition conditions for LiPSON are established that maintain a good EC activity of WOx. An all‐solid‐state EC device is assembled of WOx/LiPSON with vanadium titanium oxide as counter electrode and aluminum‐doped zinc oxide as back contact. Temperature‐dependent EIS and spectroelectrochemical measurements show that in such an all‐solid‐state stack, the detrimental contact resistance could be avoided and switching times of less than 60 s are achieved.
Erianin inhibits human lung cancer cell growth via PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Zhang Hui‐qiong , Xie Xiao‐fang , Li Gang‐min , Chen Jun‐ren , Li Meng‐ting , Xu Xin , Xiong Qiu‐yun , Chen Guan‐ru , Yin Yan‐peng , Peng Fu , Chen Yan , Peng Cheng
Published: July 2021

Erianin is a small‐molecule compound that is isolated from Dendrobium chrysotoxum Lindl. In recent years, it has been found to have evident antitumor activity in various cancers, such as bladder cancer, cervical cancer, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. In this study, we assessed the effect of erianin on lung cancer in terms of cell growth inhibition and the related mechanism. First, erianin at a concentration of less than 1 nmol/L exhibited cytotoxicity in H1975, A549, LLC lung cancer cells, did not cause marked growth inhibition in normal lung and kidney cells, induced obvious apoptosis and G2/M phase arrest of cells, and inhibited the migration and invasion of lung cancer cells in vitro. Second, in a mouse xenograft model of lewis lung cancer (LLC), oral administration of erianin (50, 35, and 10 mg kg−1 day−1 for 12 days) substantially inhibited nodule growth, reduced the fluorescence counts of lewis cells and the percentage vascularity of tumor tissues, increased the number of apoptotic tumor cells, the thymus indices, up‐regulated the levels of interleukin (IL)‐2 and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), decreased IL‐10 levels and the spleen index, and enhanced immune function. Lastly, the possible targets of erianin were determined by molecular docking and verified via western blot assay. The results indicated that erianin may achieve the above effects via inhibiting the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in vitro and vivo. Taken together, the results showed that erianin had obvious antitumor effects via inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in vitro and vivo and may have potential clinical value for the treatment of lung cancer.
Silver nanoparticles as an active packaging ingredient and its toxicity
Authors: Ahmad Syed Sayeed , Yousuf Owais , Islam Rayees Ul , Younis Kaiser
Published: July 2021

Silver nanoparticles are broad‐spectrum antimicrobials which, in recent years, have gained much attention in food packaging. Nowadays, minimally processed foods are demanded by consumers with better quality and wholesomeness. Foods reach the consumer's table because of the packaging, which plays an essential function in protection, convenience, information and promotion. Safety due to conventional packaging can be improved with the help of antimicrobial agents by incorporation or coating. Silver being an excellent antimicrobial agent has been used in food packaging to improve packed foods shelf life. There is a need to summarize the studies on the migration of silver nanoparticles from packaging to food and their toxicity. In this review, we have outlined the function of silver nanoparticles in food packaging, their toxicity and their effect on the environment.
Endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial cryo‐nodal biopsy: a novel approach for mediastinal lymph node sampling
Authors: Gonuguntla Hari Kishan , Shah Milap , Gupta Nitesh , Agrawal Sumita , Poletti Venerino , Nacheli Gustavo Cumbo
Published: July 2021

Endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) is preferred for evaluating malignant lymph nodes and staging of lung cancer. Nevertheless, larger tissue samples are increasingly needed, particularly for molecular analysis. We describe the feasibility, technical details, and complications of EBUS‐guided transbronchial cryo‐node biopsy (TBCNB) in four patients with mediastinal adenopathy. The samples obtained by EBUS‐TBCNB in all cases were adequate for histopathological examination (HPE) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. In case 1, HPE showed non‐caseating epithelioid granuloma with giant cells and fibrosis consistent with sarcoidosis. Case 2 was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma with positivity for ROS1(D4D6). Case 3 showed features of metastatic adenocarcinoma from the breast (positive for Her2, ER, and GATA3). Case 4 was diagnosed with tuberculosis (necrotizing granuloma in histopathology, stain with Ziehl–Neelsen that showed few rod‐shaped bacilli). Only one patient had minimal bleeding at the puncture site controlled with cold saline. There were no adverse events such as major bleeding, pneumomediastinum, or pneumothorax.
Erasures versus errors in local decoding and property testing
Authors: Raskhodnikova Sofya , Ron‐Zewi Noga , Varma Nithin
Published: July 2021

We initiate the study of the role of erasures in local decoding and use our understanding to prove a separation between erasure‐resilient and tolerant property testing. We first investigate local list‐decoding in the presence of erasures. We prove an analog of a famous result of Goldreich and Levin on local list‐decodability of the Hadamard code. Specifically, we show that the Hadamard code is locally list‐decodable in the presence of a constant fraction of erasures, arbitrarily close to 1, with list sizes and query complexity better than in the Goldreich–Levin theorem. We further study approximate locally erasure list‐decodable codes and use them to construct a property that is erasure‐resiliently testable with query complexity independent of the input length, , but requires queries for tolerant testing. We also investigate the general relationship between local decoding in the presence of errors and in the presence of erasures.
High‐Pressure‐Sintering‐Induced Microstructural Engineering for an Ultimate Phonon Scattering of Thermoelectric Half‐Heusler Compounds
Authors: He Ran , Zhu Taishan , Ying Pingjun , Chen Jie , Giebeler Lars , Kühn Uta , Grossman Jeffrey C. , Wang Yumei , Nielsch Kornelius
Published: July 2021

Thermal management is of vital importance in various modern technologies such as portable electronics, photovoltaics, and thermoelectric devices. Impeding phonon transport remains one of the most challenging tasks for improving the thermoelectric performance of certain materials such as half‐Heusler compounds. Herein, a significant reduction of lattice thermal conductivity (κL) is achieved by applying a pressure of ≈1 GPa to sinter a broad range of half‐Heusler compounds. Contrasting with the common sintering pressure of less than 100 MPa, the gigapascal‐level pressure enables densification at a lower temperature, thus greatly modifying the structural characteristics for an intensified phonon scattering. A maximum κL reduction of ≈83% is realized for HfCoSb from 14 to 2.5 W m−1 K−1 at 300 K with more than 95% relative density. The realized low κL originates from a remarkable grain‐size refinement to below 100 nm together with the abundant in‐grain defects, as determined by microscopy investigations. This work uncovers the phonon transport properties of half‐Heusler compounds under unconventional microstructures, thus showing the potential of high‐pressure compaction in advancing the performance of thermoelectric materials.
S‐N curve for full‐locked coil ropes: Background to the verification in prEN 1993‐1‐11:2020
Authors: Maljaars Johan , Misiek Thomas
Published: July 2021

Many steel rope systems are subjected to fluctuating tensile loads and therefore can fail due to fatigue. There are indications that the fatigue resistance of full‐locked coil ropes is somewhat lower than that of other types of rope. Fatigue test data on full‐locked coil ropes have been collected, but they terminate at different conditions. A semi‐empirical model is employed to extrapolate the test results to full failure of the rope. The resulting S‐N curve is being adopted for the revision of European standard prEN 1993‐1‐11.
Taming Electron Transfers: From Breaking Bonds to Creating Molecules
Authors: von Wolff Niklas , Robert Marc
Published: July 2021

The electron is the ultimate redox reagent to build and reshape molecular structures. Understanding and controlling the parameters underlying dissociative electron transfer (DET) reactivity and its coupling with proton transfer is crucial for combining selectivity, kinetics and energy efficiency in molecular chemistry. Reactivity understanding and mechanistic elements in DET processes are traced back and key examples of current research efforts are presented, demonstrating a large variety of applications. The involvement of DET pathways indeed encompasses a broad range of processes such as photoredox catalysis, CO2 reduction and alcohol oxidation. Interplay between these experimental examples and fundamental mechanistic study provides a powerful path to the understanding of driving force‐rate relationships, which is crucial for the development of future generations of energy efficient catalytic schemes in redox organic chemistry.
Retrobulbar haematoma secondary to haemophilia A in a dog
Authors: Amorim Ana , Reisinho Ana , Vicente Gonçalo , Delgado Esmeralda
Published: July 2021

A 6‐year‐old male Yorkshire terrier presented due to sudden onset exophthalmos of the left eye. Ocular signs included conjunctival haemorrhage and third eyelid protusion. Physical examination revealed decreased ocular retropulsion and pain on opening the mouth. Skull CT demonstrated the presence of a retrobulbar mass. Transoral drainage of the retrobulbar space disclosed blood, but subsequently to this procedure profuse bleeding occurred from the incision site, while haematocrit levels decreased significantly. Coagulation tests showed a deficiency on the VIII and XII clotting factors, compatible with haemophilia A. As a consequence of exophthalmos, a severe exposure keratitis took place that rapidly evolved to perforation. After fresh frozen plasma administration, a transconjunctival enucleation was performed. Although uncommon, retrobulbar haematoma resulting from haemostatic defects should be included in the differential diagnosis of exophthalmos in dogs.