bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Proposed Strategic Plan for the Preparatory Year in the Light of Saudi Arabia Vision 2030
Authors: Othman Dr. Yousry Mohammed , Alrayes Dr. Nasser Saud
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study was to prepare a proposed strategic plan for the preparatory year, which would provide the first-year university program, in the light of Saudi Arabia vision 2030. The researchers in this study used the analytical descriptive curriculum to suit the nature of the subject, and given the nature and objectives of the study, the researchers used the "purposeful sampling", through the identification of a group of experts, selected from the specialists and management experience in academic work, according to the following criteria: (Have experience, leadership in academic work, focus on who has experience in strategic planning and focus on who has experience in academic accreditation and quality). 36 experts responded, taking their views on the applicability of the proposed strategic plan to Saudi Arabia's environment and their development observations. The study provided a practical explanation of how the proposed strategic plan was prepared in accordance with the Pfeiffer model and the SWOT model, which were developed in a number of stages: Define the concept of the strategic plan, Form the strategic planning group on the basis of the preparatory year, Self-evaluation and self-study for the preparatory year in the light of the criteria of the National Centre for Assessment and Academic Accreditation (NCAAA) and environmental analysis of the preparatory year, gap analysis and define prioritization, Building the strategic plan, which includes the following stages: exploring the stakeholders' views on the vision, mission and current objectives of the preparatory year; formulating the vision, mission and strategic goals in the light of the results of the stakeholders survey and the views of the experts, after adjusting the formulation of the vision, mission and strategic goals in the light of the results of the stakeholders survey; alignment the proposed strategic goals of the preparatory year with each of the following: The strategic goals of Imam Abdul Rahman Ben Faisal University “IAU”, the criteria of the NCAAA, the National Qualifications Framework 2020 and the formulation of the final vision, mission and strategic goals in the light of the results of the survey of stakeholders and experts; formulation of sub-goals, blessings and performance indicators for each strategic goals, the implementation plan for apply of the strategy, follow-up and evaluation of the proposed strategic plan for the preparatory year.
Indicação de Procedência das Louças Produzidas no Quilombo no Maruanum – AP
Authors: Neves Lúcio Dias das , Costa Robson Antonio Tavares , Goncalves Luiz Antonio da Silva , Soares Antonio Augusto Costa , Brito Alaan Ubaiara
Published: December 2021

Pretende-se identificar, a partir dos resultados obtidos, a possibilidade do pedido de IG junto ao INPI das louças produzidas no Quilombo do Maruanum. Visto que o processo para coleta da matéria-prima e as técnicas tradicionais utilizadas para esta produção apresentam distinguibilidade de outras produções artesanais do Brasil e apresentam também características típicas do solo e da floresta das regiões amazônicas que sofrem influências da maré. Além de (re)existir todo um ritual ancestral afro-brasileiro desde a retirada dessa matéria-prima, do respeito ao solo, do processo de seleção inicial sobre quem/quais louceiras estão aptas para esse momento de coleta – considerado sagrado – até a mística de como as mulheres quilombolas se relacionam com a natureza (princípio das religiões de Matriz Africana). Concluiu-se que os resultados apresentados na mídia, nos bancos de dissertações/teses e por meio das diversas pesquisas acadêmicas contribuem para a notoriedade da tecnologia tradicional e no processo de fabricação das louças maruanaenses.
Prospecção Bibliométrica e Patentária de Agentes Antimicrobianos em Têxteis
Authors: Santos Danielle Lima , Santana Roquelina , Lima Ângela Maria Ferreira
Published: December 2021

A crescente onda de epidemias virais que assolam o mundo ao longo dos séculos favorece a busca de novas tecnologias que minimizem o impacto de doenças infecciosas. Com a presença do vírus SARS-CoV-2 circulando entre a população e ocasionando muitos casos de morte, este estudo busca identificar por meio da prospecção tecnológica (bibliométrica e patentária) o que vem sendo pesquisado e desenvolvido no mundo relativo a agentes antimicrobianos em tecidos e sua relação com o avanço da COVID-19. A metodologia utilizada foi de caráter exploratória com abordagem quali-quantitativa. A Índia e a China apresentaram o maior número de pesquisas relacionadas às novas tecnologias aplicadas em têxteis antimicrobianos. A China configura-se ainda como a maior cessionária de depósitos de patentes nessa tecnologia, em que se destacam os produtos naturais associados e as nanopartículas de prata. Conclui-se que o uso de agentes antimicrobianos em tecidos determina-se como uma área promissora, favorecendo novas pesquisas.
WATTPAD
Authors: Mendonça Poubel de Oliveira Sara
Published: December 2021

O presente artigo versa sobre leitura e escrita digital através da plataforma Wattpad, uma das mais usadas no mundo atualmente para publicar e ler obras originais. Tem por objetivos demonstrar o que vem a ser o Wattpad e os usos dessa plataforma, debruçando-se sobre conceitos de leitura e escrita, através de pesquisa bibliográfica com uso de instrumentos de pesquisa quantitativa. Através da análise dos dados obtidos, percebeu-se as principais preferências dos usuários do Wattpad, seus hábitos de leitura e escrita on-line e a possibilidade do incentivo à leitura e escrita no meio digital, criando assim mais leitores e escritores no ambiente em que a sociedade mais investe seu tempo: na internet.
Manipulating Exchange Bias in a Van der Waals Ferromagnet
Authors: Wu Yingying , Wang Wei , Pan Lei , Wang Kang L.
Published: December 2021

Spintronics applications of thin‐film magnets require control and design of specific magnetic properties. Exchange bias, originating from the pinning of spins in a ferromagnet by these of an antiferromagnet, is a part of the highly important elements for spintronics applications. Here, an exchange bias of ≈90 mT in a van der Waals ferromagnet encapsulated by two antiferromagnets at 5 K, the value of which is highly tunable by the field coolings, is reported. The non‐antisymmetric dependence of exchange bias on field cooling is explained through considering an uncompensated interfacial magnetic layer of an antiferromagnet with a noncollinear spin texture, and a weak antiferromagnetic order in the oxidized layer, at two ferromagnet/antiferromagnet interfaces. This work opens up new routes toward designing and controlling 2D spintronic devices made of atomically thin van der Waals magnets.
Spatiotemporal Regulation of Hydrogel Actuators by Autocatalytic Reaction Networks
Authors: Paikar Arpita , Novichkov Alexander I. , Hanopolskyi Anton I. , Smaliak Viktoryia A. , Sui Xiaomeng , Kampf Nir , Skorb Ekaterina V. , Semenov Sergey N.
Published: December 2021

Regulating hydrogel actuators with chemical reaction networks is instrumental for constructing life‐inspired smart materials. Herein, hydrogel actuators are engineered that are regulated by the autocatalytic front of thiols. The actuators consist of two layers. The first layer, which is regular polyacrylamide hydrogel, is in a strained conformation. The second layer, which is polyacrylamide hydrogel with disulfide crosslinks, maintains strain in the first layer. When thiols released by the autocatalytic front reduce disulfide crosslinks, the hydrogel actuates by releasing the mechanical strain in the first layer. The autocatalytic front is sustained by the reaction network, which uses thiouronium salts, disulfides of β‐aminothiols, and maleimide as starting components. The gradual actuation by the autocatalytic front enables movements such as gradual unrolling, screwing, and sequential closing of “fingers.” This actuation also allows the transmission of chemical signals in a relay fashion and the conversion of a chemical signal to an electrical signal. Locations and times of spontaneous initiation of autocatalytic fronts can be preprogrammed in the spatial distribution of the reactants in the hydrogel. To approach the functionality of living matter, the actuators triggered by an autocatalytic front can be integrated into smart materials regulated by chemical circuits.
Boosting Cancer Immunotherapy via the Convenient A2AR Inhibition Using a Tunable Nanocatalyst with Light‐Enhanced Activity
Authors: Yu Wenqian , Sun Junlin , Wang Xiuyuan , Yu Shuyi , Yan Mingzhu , Wang Fuan , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: December 2021

Blockade of A2A adenosine receptors (A2AR)‐adenosinergic signaling shows high potency to mobilize antitumor immunity for its in‐depth involvement in immune regulation of nearly all immune cells. Available A2AR inhibition strategies are mainly based on small molecules or proteins inhibitors, yet are limited by the non‐specific operation as well as the off‐target toxicity. Herein, the first effort to design a convenient tumor‐specific A2AR inhibition strategy to improve antitumor immune responses via the spatiotemporally controlled oxygen supply by virtue of a versatile photo‐modulated nanoreactor is reported on. This nanoreactor, consisting of a catalase‐mimicking shell (Pt nanocatalyst) and a photothermal core (polydopamine), is rationally designed for achieving the near‐infrared radiation (NIR)‐guided/accelerated oxygen supplementation on tumor site, and for relieving the A2AR‐mediated immunosuppression without toxicity concern. Meanwhile, the NIR light could also mediate the direct photothermal ablation of tumor, and elicit immunogenic cell deaths to boost antitumor immunity. In a poorly immunogenic breast cancer model, the intravenous injection of the nanoreactor leads to the improved immune response with an increased animal survival rate, and achieves the long‐term immunological memory effect against tumor recurrence as well as rechallenge. This convenient nanoreactor‐stimulated A2AR inhibition approach provides a versatile promising paradigm for improving these existing immunotherapies.
Combating Complement's Deleterious Effects on Nanomedicine by Conjugating Complement Regulatory Proteins to Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Zhicheng , Hood Elizabeth D. , Nong Jia , Ding Jing , Marcos‐Contreras Oscar A. , Glassman Patrick M. , Rubey Kathryn M. , Zaleski Michael , Espy Carolann L. , Gullipali Damodara , Miwa Takashi , Muzykantov Vladimir R. , Song Wen‐Chao , Myerson Jacob W. , Brenner Jacob S.
Published: December 2021

Complement opsonization is among the biggest challenges facing nanomedicine. Nearly instantly after injection into blood, nanoparticles are opsonized by the complement protein C3, leading to clearance by phagocytes, fouling of targeting moieties, and release of anaphylatoxins. While surface polymers such as poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) partially decrease complement opsonization, most nanoparticles still suffer from extensive complement opsonization, especially when linked to targeting moieties. To ameliorate the deleterious effects of complement, two of mammals’ natural regulators of complement activation (RCAs), Factors H and I, are here conjugated to the surface of nanoparticles. In vitro, Factor H or I conjugation to PEG‐coated nanoparticles decrease their C3 opsonization, and markedly reduce nanoparticle uptake by phagocytes. In an in vivo mouse model of sepsis‐induced lung injury, Factor I conjugation abrogates nanoparticle uptake by intravascular phagocytes in the lungs, allowing the blood concentration of the nanoparticle to remain elevated much longer. For nanoparticles targeted to the lung's endothelium by conjugation to anti‐ICAM antibodies, Factor I conjugation shifts the cell‐type distribution away from phagocytes and toward endothelial cells. Finally, Factor I conjugation abrogates the severe anaphylactoid responses common to many nanoparticles, preventing systemic capillary leak and preserving blood flow to visceral organs and the brain. Thus, conjugation of RCAs, like Factor I, to nanoparticles is likely to help in nanomedicine's long battle against complement, improving several key parameters critical for clinical success.
Compositionally Graded KNN‐Based Multilayer Composite with Excellent Piezoelectric Temperature Stability
Authors: Zheng Ting , Yu Yungang , Lei Haobin , Li Fei , Zhang Shujun , Zhu Jianguo , Wu Jiagang
Published: December 2021

The inherent disadvantage of lead‐free potassium sodium niobate (KNN)‐based ceramics is the severe temperature instability of piezoelectric charge coefficient (d33) caused by the polymorphic phase boundary. Herein, a new concept of structural gradient is proposed by designing compositionally graded multilayer composites with multiple successive phase transitions, to solve the challenge of the inferior temperature stability. The structural gradient ceramics exhibit a superior temperature reliability (d33 remains almost unchanged in the temperature range of 25–100 °C), far outperforming the previously reported KNN counterparts with d33 variation above 27% over the same temperature range. The synergistic contribution of the continuous phase transition, the strain gradient, and the complementary effect of each constituent layer leads to the excellent temperature stability, which is also confirmed by phase‐field simulation. These findings are expected to provide a new paradigm for functional material design with outstanding temperature stability.
An assessment of USDA corn condition ratings across the U.S. Corn Belt
Authors: Bundy Logan R. , Gensini Vittorio A.
Published: December 2021

Changes in temperature, precipitation, and adverse weather across the U.S. Corn Belt associated with anthropogenic climate change may have an effect on corn (Zea mays L.) condition ratings in one of the leading corn production regions in the world. Using USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service data, this study aims to quantify the correlation of corn condition ratings with climate variables and yield, understand intergrowing season behavior of corn condition ratings, and quantify spatiotemporal trends of ratings across the U.S. Midwest (1986–2020). With an existing statistically significant (95% confidence level) correlation between corn condition ratings, Palmer drought indices, precipitation, temperature, and detrended corn yield, it is validated that qualitive rating data should be further examined. Using the Crop Condition Index (CCI), corn condition ratings supportive of positive yield prospects subtly decrease from June to September on average. The CCI values increased within June (ranging from 0.08 to 0.40 CCI yr–1),but subtly decreased within July and onward throughout the Midwest (ranging from –0.02 to –0.62 CCI yr–1 over the past 35 yr. From an interannual perspective, corn condition ratings supportive of extreme degrees of yield loss have significantly increased in 7 of the 12 Midwest states (ranging from 0.15 to 0.30% yr–1). Thus, increasing yields despite decreases in corn condition ratings suggests crop advancements such as hybrids and management have offset environment challenges with corn quality. These advancements need to be a continuing effort under a changing climate given rating trends, and corn condition ratings can provide essential risk assessment information for corn producers and other stakeholders.
10‐year frailty trajectory is associated with Alzheimer’s dementia after considering neuropathological burden
Authors: Wallace Lindsay M. K. , Theou Olga , Godin Judith , Ward David D. , Andrew Melissa K. , Bennett David A. , Rockwood Kenneth
Published: December 2021

Main Problem

Frailty is an established risk factor for cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. Few studies have examined the longitudinal relationship between frailty and cognition.

Methods

Participants of Rush Memory and Aging project (n = 625, 67.5% female, 83.2 ± 5.9 years at baseline) underwent annual clinical evaluations (average follow‐up 5.6 ± 3.7 years) followed by neuropathologic assessment after death. A frailty index was calculated from 41 health variables at each evaluation. Clinical diagnosis of MCI and/or dementia was ascertained by clinical data review (blinded to neuropathological data) after death. Age, sex, education, and neuropathological burden (10‐item index) were evaluated as covariates. Frailty trajectories were calculated using a mixed effects model.

Results

At baseline the mean frailty index = 0.24 ± 0.12 and increased at rate of 0.026 or ~1 deficit per year. At death, 27.7% of the sample had MCI, and 38.6% had dementia. Frailty trajectories were significantly steeper among those individuals who were ultimately diagnosed as clinically impaired prior to death, even after controlling for age, sex, education, and neuropathological index.

Conclusions

Findings suggest a strong link between health status (frailty index) and dementia, even after considering neuropathology. Frailty trajectories were associated with risk for MCI and dementia, underscoring the importance of addressing frailty to manage dementia risk.
Prenatal diagnosis of a likely pathogenic variant in ZBTB18: Natural evolution of fetal phenotype including the long bones and corpus callosum
Authors: Birnbaum Roee , Markovitch Ofer , Biron‐shental Tal , Kidron Debora , Ben‐Sira Liat , Litz Philipsborn Shira , Reinstein Eyal
Published: December 2021

Pathogenic variants in ZBTB18 gene have been described only postnatally with a variable phenotypic spectrum that includes intellectual disability, microcephaly, hypotonia, poor growth, corpus callosum abnormalities, seizures, and dysmorphic facial features. These features overlap with the phenotype of 1q43‐q44 deletion syndrome (OMIM #612337). There are several genes within the 1q43‐q44 deletion region, and ZBTB18 is of particular interest due to its known involvement in neuronal differentiation and migration. We describe here a fetus presenting with an intrauterine growth restriction, diminished long bones growth, single umbilical artery, and a short corpus callosum. On mid pregnancy ultrasound, all biometric parameters including the corpus callosum were relatively small but still within the normal range. Only a targeted follow‐up during the third trimester, including neurosonographic and MRI exams, revealed the full extent of the malformation, leading to amniocentesis and a genetic workup that led to the identification of a de novo likely pathogenic variant in ZBTB18 gene. This is the first description of the evolving phenotype of a ZBTB18‐related disorder in a fetus, which emphasizes the challenging diagnosis of subtle findings, that mandates a high level of clinical suspicion and a targeted follow‐up throughout pregnancy.
Experimental investigation of sedimentation behaviour using cerium oxalate particles in oxalic‐nitric acid medium
Authors: Panda Saroj Kumar , Anand Panantharayil Vishnu , Rajeev Ramachandran Pillai , Venkatesan Konda Athmaram , Ananthasivan Krishnamurthy
Published: December 2021

Settling behaviour of cerium oxalate particles in the solution was investigated by batch settling tests. The settling curves were experimentally generated for different overall solid fractions (OSF), initial dispersion height (ht) and batch cylinder diameter (d). Settling curves were analysed to obtain bulk settling velocity, and it was observed that bulk settling velocity decreases with increase in OSF and remains unchanged with change in cylinder diameter. Bulk settling velocity was found more or less same with increase in initial suspension height as long as the OSF was maintained constant. The particle settling time is delayed at higher OSF due to dense particle population as the movement of one particle is affected by the presence of neighbouring particle. Regression analysis of the settling curve was performed to identify suitable mathematical model. Two parameter based model was found to represent the settling curve better in comparison to three and five parameter based models. Applicability of dispersion number for characterizing the solid–liquid suspension was checked, and it was found that the dispersion number was not unique for the solid‐liquid system where it was influenced by the operating and dimensional parameters.
One‐step anchored polymers via phenolamine bionic design on textile‐based heater for application in personal heat management
Authors: Du Peibo , Guo Zhiguang , Li Yonghe , Zhang Jinping , Muhammad Javed , Cai Zaisheng , Ge Fengyan
Published: December 2021

Flexible electronic fabrics urgently need to solve the problem of adhesion between the conductive layer and the fabric substrates. Inspired by phenamine bionics, we designed and fabricated copper nanoparticle conductive network/nylon 6 woven fabric (CNNs/NWF) wearable heaters through rapid co‐deposited of tannic acid and polyethyleneimine (PEI) by using CuSO4/H2O2 as a trigger. The grafted TA/PEI interface is capable of anchoring on the fabric surface via covalent and non‐covalent bonds on the one hand and providing an ideal platform to absorb and reduce catalyst Ag+ to facilitate subsequent electroless deposition on the other. Furthermore, the electrical heater could rise temperature from 14.6 to 152.6°C within 90 s under 1.5 V voltage, better than that of recently reported literature. The heater had a splendid conductivity (sheet resistance R0 ≈ 0.0086 Ω sq−1) and remain stable after 1000 bending cycle tests (normalized resistance R/R0 ≈ 2.5). Furthermore, the heater could meet 50 standard washing tests, satisfying the essential needs of the wearable devices. The deviation between the simulated data and the measured data was no more than 10% by the simulation of the finite elemental analysis. This study might provide a viable source for wearable heating devices.
Study on the mechanism and performance of polymer gels byTEandPVAchemical cross‐linking
Authors: Zhou Yang , Chu Ruizhi , Fan Lulu , Meng Xianliang , Zhao Jianqiao , Wu Guoguang , Li Xiao , Jiang Xiaofeng , Sun FanChao
Published: December 2021

Polymer gels are widely used as drilling plugging materials. In this paper, titanium bis(triethanolamine)diisopropoxide (TE) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution were chemically cross‐linked to obtain a gel material. It shows that the OH on the PVA molecular chain are chemically cross‐linked with the Ti ion in TE crosslinking agent through complexation reaction, and the cross‐linked segment can inhibit the chain motion, resulting in a stable “crab structure” gel configuration. The gel materials synthesized under this configuration were characterized and analyzed by SEM, TG‐DSC, GPC, and contact angle measurement. It was demonstrated that the gel performance is optimal when the concentration of TE crosslinking agent is 2.2 wt%, considering the gel strength and gelation time. In addition, the simulated plugging experiment of the gel showed that the service life of the gel was about 72 days, and the sealing performance and tensile recovery performance were significantly improved compared with the previous ones, which would provide a new perspective for the novel plugging materials.
CD163+ M2 Macrophages Promote Fibrosis in IgG4‐Related Disease Via Toll‐like Receptor 7/Interleukin‐1 Receptor–Associated Kinase 4/NF‐κB Signaling
Authors: Chinju Akira , Moriyama Masafumi , Kakizoe‐Ishiguro Noriko , Chen Hu , Miyahara Yuka , Haque A. S. M. Rafiul , Furusho Katsuhiro , Sakamoto Mizuki , Kai Kazuki , Kibe Kotono , Hatakeyama‐Furukawa Sachiko , Ito‐Ohta Miho , Maehara Takashi , Nakamura Seiji
Published: December 2021

Objective

IgG4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD) is a fibro‐inflammatory condition that can affect multiple organs. We previously demonstrated that TLR7‐transgenic C57BL/6 mice showed elevated serum IgG1 levels and inflammation with fibrosis in the salivary glands (SGs), lungs, and pancreas. Moreover, we observed extensive Toll‐like receptor 7 (TLR‐7)–positive CD163+ M2 macrophage infiltration in SGs from IgG4‐RD patients. We undertook this study to examine the fibrotic mechanism via the TLR‐7 pathway.

Methods

Gene expression in SGs from human TLR7‐transgenic mice and IgG4‐RD patients was analyzed using DNA microarrays. We extracted the common up‐regulated TLR‐7–related genes in SGs from TLR7‐transgenic mice and IgG4‐RD patients. Finally, we investigated the interaction between CD163+ M2 macrophages and fibroblasts before and after stimulation with the TLR‐7 agonist loxoribine.

Results

In TLR7‐transgenic mice and IgG4‐RD patients, IRAK3 and IRAK4 were significantly overexpressed. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction validated the up‐regulation of only IRAK4 in IgG4‐RD patients compared with the other groups (P < 0.05). Interleukin‐1 receptor–associated kinase 4 (IRAK4) was strongly detected in and around germinal centers in SGs from patients with IgG4‐related dacryoadenitis and sialadenitis alone. Double immunofluorescence staining showed that IRAK4‐positive cells were mainly colocalized with CD163+ M2 macrophages in SGs (P < 0.05). After stimulation with loxoribine, CD163+ M2 macrophages exhibited significantly enhanced expression of IRAK4 and NF‐κB and increased supernatant concentrations of fibrotic cytokines. Finally, we confirmed that the number of fibroblasts was increased by culture with the supernatant of CD163+ M2 macrophages following stimulation with loxoribine (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

CD163+ M2 macrophages promote fibrosis in IgG4‐RD by increasing the production of fibrotic cytokines via TLR‐7/IRAK4/NF‐κB signaling.
Objective frequency analysis of transient visual evoked potentials in autistic children
Authors: Brittenham Chloe , Gordon James , Zemon Vance M. , Siper Paige M.
Published: December 2021

Visual evoked potentials (VEPs) provide a means to examine neural mechanisms in autism with high temporal resolution. Conventional VEP analysis relies on subjective inspection of a few points (peaks and troughs) in the time‐domain waveform. The current study applied power spectral analysis and magnitude‐squared coherence (MSC) statistics (frequency‐domain measures) to VEPs recorded during 1‐minute runs and with a recently developed short‐duration technique that allow for objective examination of the responses (Zemon & Gordon, European Journal of Neuroscience, 2018, 48, 1765–1788) from nonautistic and autistic children. Results indicate that, for both groups, early time‐domain measures (P60, N75, P100) are highly correlated with middle‐ and high‐frequency (14–28 and 30–48 Hz, respectively) mechanisms, and late measures are highly correlated with a low‐frequency (6–12 Hz) mechanism. One frequency‐domain measure (power in the middle‐frequency band) is capable of predicting the key amplitude measure (N75‐P100) with high accuracy. MSC and power measures were combined to yield separate measures of signal and noise strength to evaluate alternate hypotheses in autism. Linear mixed‐effects modeling demonstrated selective differences in early time‐domain and middle‐to‐high frequency‐domain measures in autistic children as compared to nonautistic children given both recording techniques, implicating weaker excitatory input to the cortex. Receiver‐operating‐characteristic curve analysis showed predictive diagnostic accuracy for middle‐ and high‐frequency bands based on MSC. These findings support the value of frequency analysis measures (power spectral analysis and MSC) in the objective examination of neural differences in autism.

Lay Summary

Visual evoked potentials (VEPs) are used to assess neural mechanisms. Typically, VEPs are analyzed by subjective examination of time‐series waveforms; but here objective techniques were applied to quantify VEP frequency components to investigate neural differences between autistic and nonautistic children. The objective measures demonstrate group differences in brain function that point to weaker excitatory input to the cortex in autism.
A Hollow Porous Metal‐Organic Framework Enabled Polyethylene Oxide Based Composite Polymer Electrolytes for All‐Solid‐State Lithium Batteries
Authors: Hu Yubing , Feng Tianshi , Xu Lei , Zhang Lifeng , Luo Langli
Published: December 2021

Composite polymer electrolytes (CPEs) are replacing traditional liquid electrolytes for next‐generation all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) with enhanced safety and uncompromising electrochemical properties. However, short‐circuit due to lithium‐dendrite growth in the CPEs largely hinders its practical applications. Here, we report a thin CPE composed of the hollow ZIF‐8 encapsulating Li‐ionic liquids (ZIF‐8/IL) nano‐fillers and polyethylene oxide (PEO) matrix. It shows an ionic conductivity of 1.41×10−4 S cm−1 at 25 °C with improved surface roughness, thermal stability, and electrochemical stability. The specific core‐shell structure of fillers benefits from its insulation shell for inhibiting lithium dendrite growth and the inner cavity for storing sufficient Li‐IL with enhanced Li diffusivity. The CPE with 30 % filler (30 H‐Z CPE) content exhibits excellent cycle stability of 770 h in the Li symmetric cell and an outstanding discharge capacity of 182.5 mAh g−1 and capacity retention of 73 % after 100 cycles at 0.1 C and 60 °C in the Li/30 H‐Z CPE/NCM811 asymmetric cell.
Nachhaltig bauen mit Beton – Planungshilfe des Deutschen Ausschusses für Stahlbeton (DAfStb)
Authors: Wiens Udo
Published: December 2021

Zunehmende Rohstoffknappheit, begrenzter Deponieraum und das Erfordernis zur Reduktion von CO2‐Emissionen sind die globalen Vorgaben, die von nachhaltigen Gebäuden u. a. einen geringen Verbrauch von Rohstoffen und Energie ebenso wie eine größtmögliche Nutzungsflexibilität und Wiederverwendbarkeit oder Dauerhaftigkeit der Funktion im Bauwerk fordern. Sie müssen ökologischen, ökonomischen und sozio‐kulturellen Ansprüchen gerecht werden, gleichzeitig eine hohe technische Qualität bieten sowie auf die Prozesse des Bauwesens abgestimmt sein. Die Planungshinweise des DAfStb für Bauwerke des üblichen Hochbaus (Wohnungsbauten, Verwaltungsgebäude, Veranstaltungsbauten, Einkaufszentren, Industriehallen etc.) dienen Investoren, Bauherren, Planenden, Ausführenden und Vertretern der Bauaufsicht für Entscheidungsprozesse beim nachhaltigen Bauen mit Beton. Sie zeigen auf, wie mit dem bereits vorhandenen Regelwerk im Betonbau nachhaltig geplant und gebaut werden kann.
Validation of the prophylactic efficacy of urea‐based creams on sorafenib‐induced hand‐foot skin reaction in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: A randomised experiment study
Authors: Lien Ru‐Yu , Tung Heng‐Hsin , Wu Shang‐Laing , Hu Sophia H. , Lu Ling‐Chun , Lu Shu‐Fen
Published: December 2021

Background

Hand‐foot skin reaction may influence the effectiveness of patients' treatment, patient quality of life, and the economics of health care. An effective prophylactic dermatological cream for preventing sorafenib‐induced hand‐foot skin reaction (HFSR) is yet to be identified.

Aim

The aim of this study is validated the prophylactic efficacy of urea‐based creams on sorafenib‐induced hand‐foot skin reaction in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methods

This was a randomised double‐blind experimental study. A total of 129 patients with advanced HCC were randomly assigned to three groups. The comparison group received best supportive care (BSC), group A received BSC plus a moisturising cream, and group B received BSC plus a 10% urea‐based cream. Incidence of HFSR and cutaneous wetness were assessed 3 days before starting sorafenib and each week after starting sorafenib for 8 weeks.

Results

No significant difference was observed in the incidence density of sorafenib‐induced HFSK (comparison group/A group, p > .05; comparison group/B group, p > .05). Group B reported significantly better cutaneous wetness of hands in the seventh week after starting sorafenib (p < .05) and of feet during the first 6 weeks (p < .05–.001).

Conclusion

This study found a nut size amount of a 10% urea‐based cream applied twice a day can maintain patients' cutaneous wetness in the first 6 weeks after starting sorafenib than moisturising‐alone cream. But it cannot reduce the occurrence of HFSR. Thus, the result supports nut‐size dose of the 10% urea‐based cream three times a day may be an appropriate dose to prevent HFSR.

Clinical Trail Registration Number: NCT04568330.
A serverless gateway for event‐driven machine learning inference in multiple clouds
Authors: Naranjo Diana M. , Risco Sebastián , Moltó Germán , Blanquer Ignacio
Published: December 2021

Serverless computing and, in particular, the functions as a service model has become a convincing paradigm for the development and implementation of highly scalable applications in the cloud. This is due to the transparent management of three key functionalities: triggering of functions due to events, automatic provisioning and scalability of resources, and fine‐grained pay‐per‐use. This article presents a serverless web‐based scientific gateway to execute the inference phase of previously trained machine learning and artificial intelligence models. The execution of the models is performed both in Amazon Web Services and in on‐premises clouds with the OSCAR framework for serverless scientific computing. In both cases, the computing infrastructure grows elastically according to the demand adopting scale‐to‐zero approaches to minimize costs. The web interface provides an improved user experience by simplifying the use of the models. The usage of machine learning in a computing platform that can use both on‐premises clouds and public clouds constitutes a step forward in the adoption of serverless computing for scientific applications.
Arthropod prey vary among orders in their nutrient and exoskeleton content
Authors: Reeves Jacob T. , Fuhlendorf Samuel D. , Davis Craig A. , Wilder Shawn M.
Published: December 2021

Insectivores gain macronutrients and elements from consuming arthropod prey, but must also deal with indigestible components (i.e., exoskeleton) of prey. For example, avian chicks (e.g., northern bobwhites; Colinus virginianus) have limited gut space, and ingesting prey with relatively higher proportions of indigestible components may impact assimilation efficiency, growth, and survival. The ability of insectivores to choose higher quality prey would depend on prey taxa varying consistently in nutritional content. We tested whether there were consistent differences among taxonomic orders of arthropod prey in their macronutrient (protein and lipid), elemental (C and N), and exoskeleton content. We used northern bobwhite chicks as our focal insectivore and focused on their potential prey as a case study. We also tested the influence of indigestible exoskeleton on the measurement of macronutrient content and the ability of elemental content to predict macronutrients. We found large and consistent variation in macronutrient and elemental content between arthropod orders. Some orders had consistently high protein content and low exoskeleton content (i.e., Araneae) and are likely higher quality prey for insectivores. Abundant orders common in the diets of insectivores, like Hymenoptera and Coleoptera, had high exoskeleton content and low protein content. We also found support for the ability of elements to predict macronutrients and found that metabolizable (i.e., exoskeleton removed) elemental content better predicted macronutrient content. A better understanding of arthropod nutrient content is critical for elucidating the role of spatial and temporal variation in prey communities in shaping the growth and survival of insectivores.
Bridging implementation gaps to connect large ecological datasets and complex models
Authors: Raiho Ann M. , Nicklen E. Fleur , Foster Adrianna C. , Roland Carl A. , Hooten Mevin B.
Published: December 2021

Merging robust statistical methods with complex simulation models is a frontier for improving ecological inference and forecasting. However, bringing these tools together is not always straightforward. Matching data with model output, determining starting conditions, and addressing high dimensionality are some of the complexities that arise when attempting to incorporate ecological field data with mechanistic models directly using sophisticated statistical methods. To illustrate these complexities and pragmatic paths forward, we present an analysis using tree‐ring basal area reconstructions in Denali National Park (DNPP) to constrain successional trajectories of two spruce species (Picea mariana and Picea glauca) simulated by a forest gap model, University of Virginia Forest Model Enhanced—UVAFME. Through this process, we provide preliminary ecological inference about the long‐term competitive dynamics between slow‐growing P. mariana and relatively faster‐growing P. glauca. Incorporating tree‐ring data into UVAFME allowed us to estimate a bias correction for stand age with improved parameter estimates. We found that higher parameter values for P. mariana minimum growth under stress and P. glauca maximum growth rate were key to improving simulations of coexistence, agreeing with recent research that faster‐growing P. glauca may outcompete P. mariana under climate change scenarios. The implementation challenges we highlight are a crucial part of the conversation for how to bring models together with data to improve ecological inference and forecasting.
Contrasting microbial communities on male and female flowers of a dioecious plant, Mallotus japonicus (Euphorbiaceae)
Authors: Marre Maxime , Ushio Masayuki , Sakai Shoko
Published: December 2021

Flowers play a central role in plant reproduction by dispersing and receiving pollen grains delivered by animal vectors or air. They are rich in various nutrients, and therefore, provide an ideal habitat for many microbes. Recent studies have revealed that flower microbial communities can be highly variable among species, individuals, or even floral parts. However, sexual differences in flower microbial communities have rarely been investigated. In this study, we analyzed the flower prokaryotic communities of a dioecious plant (male and female flowers are produced on different individuals), Mallotus japonicus, in its natural habitat in Otsu, Japan. Using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, we found a differentiation in microbial communities between male and female flowers. Procaryotes on male flowers were relatively diverse, and included several dominant amplicon sequence variants (ASVs), mainly from the Gammaproteobacteria. These ASVs were also found on the body surface of flower visitor insects, suggesting that the visitors dispersed these microbes when they visited the flowers. On the other hand, female flower samples were overwhelmingly dominated by a single bacterial sequence from the Alphaproteobacteria, which showed a peak of relative abundance at the middle of the flowering season. The bacterium had already been present at anthesis, and its relative abundance on flower visitors was low. Flower visitors may have little effect on the microbial composition on female flowers. The lower diversity of microbes on female flowers than on male flowers suggests that the female flowers function as a stronger filter, possibly related to a strong defense against antagonists. These differences may be associated with different reproductive strategies of male and female flowers. This study indicates that dioecious plants provide unique opportunities to study roles of microbes in the evolution of floral traits that have mostly been overlooked in pollination ecology.
Indocyanine green fluorescence for parathyroid gland identification and function prediction: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kim Do Hyun , Kim So‐Hyun , Jung Jaehoon , Kim Sung Won , Hwang Se Hwan
Published: December 2021

Background

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracies of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence for identifying parathyroid glands during surgery and predicting the postoperative function.

Methods

From six databases, 21 studies were finally included in the study. True‐positive, true‐negative, false‐positive, and false‐negative data were extracted for the analysis. The quality of each study was analyzed using the QUADAS‐2 tool.

Results

The sensitivity of ICG‐based parathyroid gland identification was 0.9380 (95% CI [0.9003, 0.9621]). The diagnostic odds ratio for ICG‐based prediction of parathyroid gland function was 54.5652 [13.2059, 225.4570]. The area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.909. Fluorescence intensity‐based prediction presented higher diagnostic accuracy than that of score‐based prediction. The incidence of postoperative hypoparathyroidism was higher in the group with a zero ICG score compared to the high scored group.

Conclusions

Identification of parathyroid gland and prediction of postoperative function using ICG are valuable to patients undergoing thyroidectomy or parathyroidectomy.
Optimizing the transfer‐learning with pretrained deep convolutional neural networks for first stage breast tumor diagnosis using breast ultrasound visual images
Authors: Saba Tanzila , Abunadi Ibrahim , Sadad Tariq , Khan Amjad Rehman , Bahaj Saeed Ali
Published: December 2021

Female accounts for approximately 50% of the total population worldwide and many of them had breast cancer. Computer‐aided diagnosis frameworks could reduce the number of needless biopsies and the workload of radiologists. This research aims to detect benign and malignant tumors automatically using breast ultrasound (BUS) images. Accordingly, two pretrained deep convolutional neural network (CNN) models were employed for transfer learning using BUS images like AlexNet and DenseNet201. A total of 697 BUS images containing benign and malignant tumors are preprocessed and performed classification tasks using the transfer learning‐based CNN models. The classification accuracy of the benign and malignant tasks is completed and achieved 92.8% accuracy using the DensNet201 model. The results thus achieved compared in state of the art using benchmark data set and concluded proposed model outperforms in accuracy from first stage breast tumor diagnosis. Finally, the proposed model could help radiologists diagnose benign and malignant tumors swiftly by screening suspected patients.
Accounting for cross‐location technological heterogeneity in the measurement of operations efficiency and productivity
Authors: Malikov Emir , Zhang Jingfang , Zhao Shunan , Kumbhakar Subal C.
Published: December 2021

Motivated by the long‐standing interest in understanding the role of location for firm performance, this paper provides a semiparametric methodology to accommodate locational heterogeneity in production analysis. Our approach is novel in that we explicitly model spatial variation in parameters in the production‐function estimation. We accomplish this by allowing both the input‐elasticity and productivity parameters to be unknown functions of the firm's geographic location and estimate them via local kernel methods. This allows the production technology to vary across space, thereby accommodating neighborhood influences on firm production. In doing so, we are also able to examine the role of cross‐location differences in explaining the variation in operational productivity among firms. Our model is superior to the alternative spatial production‐function formulations because it (i) explicitly estimates the cross‐locational variation in production functions, (ii) is readily reconcilable with the conventional production axioms and, more importantly, (iii) can be identified from the data by building on the popular proxy‐variable methods, which we extend to incorporate locational heterogeneity. Using our methodology, we study China's chemicals manufacturing industry and find that differences in technology (as opposed to in idiosyncratic firm heterogeneity) are the main source of the cross‐location differential in total productivity in this industry.
A definition and clinical grading of Modic changes
Authors: Udby Peter M. , Samartzis Dino , Carreon Leah Y. , Andersen Mikkel Østerheden , Karppinen Jaro , Modic Michael
Published: December 2021

To provide an up‐to‐date description of knowledge and pitfalls related to the classification, definition and grading of Modic changes (MC) visualized on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). State‐of‐the‐art review of current knowledge regarding the definition and grading of MC on MRI. MC on MRI have been reported to be associated with low back pain and disability. However, previous studies have shown heterogeneous results in regards to the impact of MC and its clinical relevance in patients with back pain. MC is a term used with considerable variation in the literature. No strict definition has been provided previously, this has contributed to varying diagnostic inclusion criteria, heterogeneous study populations, and discrepancy in results. A definition of MC and a proposal for grading is provided in this state‐of‐the‐art review. MC are important, clinically relevant findings. However, issues with the nomenclature, definition and grading of these changes need to be addressed. Our current review highlights relevant issues related to MC, and provides a definition and grading score for the term MC that includes the Modic type and the extent of vertebral body involvement. Future studies should seek to validate the MC grading score in clinically relevant populations.
Soil methane (CH4) fluxes in cropland with permanent pasture and riparian buffer strips with different vegetation#
Authors: Dlamini Jerry Celumusa , Cárdenas Laura , Tesfamariam Eyob Habte , Dunn Robert , Hawkins Jane , Blackwell Martin , Evans Jess , Collins Adrian
Published: December 2021

Background

Methane (CH4) has a global warming potential (GWP) 28 times that of carbon dioxide (CO2) over a 100‐year horizon. Riparian buffers strips are widely implemented for their water quality protection functions along agricultural land, but conditions prevailing within them may increase the production of radiative greenhouse gases (GHGs), including CH4. However, a few information is available regarding the dynamics of unintended emissions of soil CH4 in these commonplace features of agroecosystems and how the dynamics compare with those for agricultural land.

Aims

To understand the dynamics of soil CH4 fluxes from a permanent upslope pasture and contiguous riparian buffer strips with different (grass, willow, and woodland) vegetation as well controls with no buffer vegetation, an experiment was carried out using the static chamber technique on a replicated plot‐scale facility.

Methods

Gas fluxes were measured periodically with soil and environmental variables between June 2018 and February 2019 at North Wyke, UK.

Results

Soils under all treatments were sinks of soil CH4 with the willow riparian buffer (–2555 ± 318.7 g CH4 ha–1) having the lowest soil CH4 flux followed by the grass riparian buffer (–2532 ± 318.7 g CH4 ha–1), woodland riparian buffer (–2318.0 ± 246.4 g CH4 ha–1), no‐buffer control (–1938.0 ± 374.4 g CH4 ha–1), and last, the upslope pasture (–1328.0 ± 89.0 g CH4 ha–1), which had a higher flux.

Conclusions

The three vegetated riparian buffers were more substantial soil CH4 sinks, suggesting that they may help reduce soil CH4 fluxes into the atmosphere in similar agroecosystems.