bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nano‐CT imaging of larvae in the ant Pheidole hyatti reveals coordinated growth of a rudimentary organ necessary for soldier development
Authors: Koch Sophie , Tahara Rui , Vasquez‐Correa Angelly , Abouheif Ehab
Published: September 2021

The growth of imaginal discs in holometabolous insects is coordinated with larval growth to ensure the symmetrical and proportional development of the adult appendages. In ants, the differential growth of these discs generates distinct castes‐the winged male and queen castes and the wingless worker caste. In the hyperdiverse ant genus Pheidole, the worker caste is composed of two morphologically distinct subcastes: small‐headed minor workers and larger, big‐headed, soldiers. Although these worker subcastes are completely wingless, soldier larvae develop rudimentary forewing discs that function in generating the disproportionate head‐to‐body scaling and size of soldiers. It remains unclear, however, how rudimentary forewing discs in soldier larvae are coordinated with other imaginal discs. Here we show, using quantitative nano‐CT imaging and three‐dimensional analyses, that the increase in the volume of the soldier rudimentary forewing discs is coordinated with larval size as well as with the increase in the volume of the leg and eye‐antennal (head) discs. However, relative to larval size, we found that when the rudimentary forewing discs appear during the last larval instar, they are relatively smaller but increase in volume faster than that of the head (eye‐antennal) and leg discs. These findings show that the rudimentary wing disc in soldier larvae has evolved novel patterns of inter‐organ coordination as compared with other insects to generate the big‐headed soldier caste in Pheidole. More generally, our study raises the possibility that novel patterns of inter‐organ coordination are a general feature of rudimentary organs that acquire novel regulatory functions during development and evolution.
Cytogenetic aberrations in adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia—A population‐based study
Authors: Bergfelt Lennmyr Emma , Engvall Marie , Barbany Gisela , Fogelstrand Linda , Rhodin Hanna , Hallböök Helene
Published: September 2021

Cytogenetic aberrations are recognized as important prognostic factors in adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), but studies seldom include elderly patients. From the population‐based Swedish ALL Registry, we identified 728 patients aged 18–95 years, who were diagnosed with ALL 1997–2015 and had cytogenetic information. Registry data were complemented with original cytogenetic reports.

BCR‐ABL1 was the most recurrent aberration, with a frequency of 26%, with additional cytogenetic alterations in 64%. KTM2A rearrangement was the second most frequent aberration found in 7%. Low hypodiploidy‐near triploidy and complex karyotype had negative impact, while t(1;19);TCF3‐PBX1 showed positive impact on overall survival. However, after correction for age only complex karyotype remained significant.
Safety and feasibility of trans‐venous cardiac device extraction using conscious sedation alone—Implications for the post‐COVID‐19 era
Authors: Lachlan Thomas , He Hejie , Aggour Hesham , Sahota Preet , Harvey Samuel , Patel Kiran , Foster Will , Yusuf Shamil , Panikker Sandeep , Dhanjal Tarv , Dandekar Uday , Barker Thomas , Parmar Jitendra , Kuehl Michael , Osman Faizel
Published: September 2021

Background

Transvenous lead extraction (TLE) for implantable cardiac‐devices is traditionally performed under general anesthesia (GA). This can lead to greater risk of exposure to COVID‐19, longer recovery‐times and increased procedural‐costs. We report the feasibility/safety of TLE using conscious‐sedation alone with immediate GA/cardiac‐surgery back‐up if needed.

Methods

Retrospective case‐series of consecutive TLEs performed using conscious‐sedation alone between March 2016 and December 2019. All were performed in the electrophysiology‐laboratory using intravenous Fentanyl, Midazolam/Diazepam with a stepwise approach using locking‐stylets/cutting‐sheaths, including mechanical‐sheaths. Baseline patient‐characteristics, procedural‐details and TLE outcomes (including procedure‐related complications/death) were recorded.

Results

A total of 130 leads were targeted in 54 patients, mean age ± SD 74.6 ± 11.8years, 47(87%) males; dual‐chamber pacemakers (n = 26; 48%), cardiac resynchronization therapy‐defibrillators (n = 17; 31%) and defibrillators (n = 8; 15%) were commonest extracted devices. Mean ± SD/median (range) lead‐dwell times were 11.0 ± 8.8/8.3 (0.3‐37) years, respectively. Extraction indications included systemic infection (n = 23; 43%) and lead/pulse‐generator erosion (n = 27; 50%); mean 2.1 ± 2.0 leads were removed per procedure/mean procedure‐time was 100 ± 54 min. Local anesthetic (LA) was used for all (mean‐dose: 33 ± 8 ml 1% lidocaine), IV drug‐doses used (mean ± SD) were: midazolam: 3.95 ± 2.44 mg, diazepam: 4.69 ± 0.89 mg and fentanyl: 57 ± 40 µg. Complete lead‐extraction was achieved in 110 (85%) leads, partial lead‐extraction (<4 cm‐fragment remaining) in 5 (4%) leads. Sedation‐related hypotension requiring IV fluids occurred in 2 (managed without adverse‐consequences) and hypoxia requiring additional airway‐management in none. No procedural deaths occurred, one patient required emergency cardiac surgery for localized ventricular perforation, nine had minor complications (transient hypotension/bradycardia/pericardial effusion not requiring intervention).

Conclusion

TLE undertaken using LA/conscious‐sedation was safe/feasible in our series and associated with good clinical outcome/low procedural complications. Reduced risk of aerosolization of COVID‐19 and quicker patient recovery/reduced anesthetic risk are potential benefits that warrant further study.
Hindrance Stressors and Job Outcomes: The Moderating Role of Political Skills
Authors: Haq Inam Ul , Zainab Binte , Jan Junaid Ahmad , Anwar Farooq , Sharif Imran
Published: September 2021

This research examined the indirect effects of hindrance stressors on work‐family conflict and job disengagement through emotional exhaustion, moderated by employees’ political skills. Data were collected from 218 employees (64% male, 36% female) working in public and private universities in Pakistan. The findings indicated that emotional exhaustion mediates the relationship between hindrance stressors and both study outcomes (i.e., work‐family conflict and job disengagement). In addition, the indirect relationship between the employees’ hindrance stressors and both study outcomes through emotional exhaustion was moderated by their political skills such that the indirect effect was weaker at higher levels of political skills.
Interspecific root interactions increase maize yields in intercropping with different companion crops
Authors: Schwerdtner Ulrike , Spohn Marie
Published: September 2021

Background

Intercropping is assumed to increase food production while reducing fertilizer needs and environmental impacts of crop production.

Aims

We aimed to (1) investigate the effects of intercropping on yields and nutrient uptake of maize, and (2) determine the relative contributions of above‐ and belowground interspecific interactions (RCabove/below) to these effects.

Methods

We conducted a 2‐year, small‐scale field experiment with maize grown either in monocropping or intercropped with faba bean, soy, blue lupin, or white mustard as companion crop. We included a treatment in which interspecific root interactions were restricted due to barriers in the soil. Maize and companion crops were analyzed for yields, and maize additionally for nutrient uptake. Maize partial land equivalent ratios (pLER), partial nitrogen and phosphorus equivalent ratios (pNER, pPER), and RCabove/below were calculated.

Results

Intercropping resulted in a similar productivity of maize as in monocropping on an area basis. Maize pLER, pNER, and pPER were larger than 1.0 in several species combinations, indicating a positive effect of intercropping on maize yields and N and P uptake. Interspecific root interactions accounted for 62–85% of the maize yield increase in legume/maize intercropping, but for only 22% in mustard/maize intercropping.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that intercropping is beneficial for crop production since it increases maize yields and N and P uptake of maize plants, and it also provides yields of a companion crop. A substantial part of these positive effects can be attributed to interspecific root interactions.
Deep‐UV resonance Raman spectroscopy of hydrated and dehydrated model α‐helical transmembrane peptides in liposomes
Authors: Wei Xing , Jiji Renee D. , Zare Anahita , Lada Bryan , Li Xiyang , Greenlief C. Michael
Published: September 2021

Water hydrogen bonding (H‐bonding) to α‐helical transmembrane (TM) peptides is fundamental to better understand the behavior and function of α‐helical peptides, disease pathways, and the development of new drugs. Deep‐UV resonance Raman (dUVRR) spectroscopy is a non‐destructive technique amenable to both lipophilic and aqueous environments, which is an excellent and convenient approach for studying water H‐bonding (or water accessibility) to α‐helical TM peptides in a membrane mimicking environment. The dUVRR results indicate that water molecules can access the lipid membrane and form H‐bonds with carbonyl groups along α‐helical backbones. Raman bands at ~1,629 and ~1,672 cm−1 can be used to monitor the hydration and dehydration conditions along TM α‐helices. Two bands at ~1,300 and ~1,340 cm−1 are also potential characteristic features of the dehydration and hydration along the α‐helices in a membrane environment.
Spontaneous Raman scattering in mixtures of light and heavy water
Authors: Gorelik Vladimir S. , Avakyants Lev P. , Skrabatun Alexander V.
Published: September 2021

The registration of spectra (in the range 10–4000 cm−1) of spontaneous Raman scattering in protium and deuterium water, as well as in its mixtures, is reported. The mixtures were prepared with different volume ratios of light and heavy water (from 5:1 to 1:9). As a result of taking into account the Bose factor in the low‐wavenumber region, bands corresponding to the cluster translational modes of water were found. A change in the Raman shift of cluster modes depending on the isotopic composition of a mixture of liquids was recorded. In the wavenumber range 1000–1700 cm−1, the manifestation of deformation modes of H2O, D2O, and HOD molecules was found in the Raman spectra. Stretching vibrations of mixtures of light and heavy water correspond to the wavenumber range of 2000–4000 cm−1. The obtained dependences of the scattered radiation intensity were used to construct difference spectra, which made it possible to determine the content of D2O molecules in light water. The presented experimental results are of interest for diagnosing the presence of deuterium water in the biosphere and for analyzing nonlinear optical processes in water.
Effect of surfactant concentration on the hydrophobicity of polydisperse alkyl ethoxylates
Authors: Acosta Edgar , Natali Sanja
Published: September 2021

The effect of ethylene oxide number (EON) polydispersity on the phase behavior of alkyl ethoxylates has been well documented in the surfactant literature. These previous studies show that polydisperse alkyl ethoxylates appear more hydrophilic as the surfactant concentration decreases or as the oil‐to‐water ratio increases. This becomes a troubling issue considering that most surfactant formulations undergo dilution during use, and they experience a wide range of water‐to‐oil volume ratios. Within the hydrophilic–lipophilic difference framework, the surfactant hydrophobicity is assessed via the sigma (σ) term (also known as the characteristic curvature or Cc). In this work, the effect of surfactant concentration on the apparent value of sigma (σapp) is evaluated as a function of surfactant concentration. The experimental observations are then explained using a bifunctional model for alkyl ethoxylates that consider the dual nature of polar oils (free alcohol and low EON ethoxymers) as surfactants and as oil components. A segregation‐based model and a partition‐based model are implemented to account for the distribution of the ethoxymers in the surfactant pseudophase and the oil phase. Combining these distribution models with the bifunctional model and a group contribution model for sigma, one can predict the σ term versus surfactant concentration for a given water/oil ratio, starting from the EON distribution of the surfactant. The practical applications of the model are discussed.
Short rotation willow on the Prairie Potholes' degraded marginal riparian lands: A potential land‐use practice to manage soil salinity
Authors: Shahariar Shayeb , Soolanayakanahally Raju , Bedard‐Haughn Angela
Published: September 2021

Land‐use practice shift in the wetland riparian zone can influence groundwater table (GWT) fluctuations and salts dynamics, potentially leading to soil salinization. The risk of soil salinization linked with high water tables could be better managed by using high growing capacity and deep‐rooted phreatophytic vegetation via the 'biodrainage' approach. We evaluated the impacts of short rotation willow (SRW; Salix dasyclados Wimm.) plantation on soil and groundwater salinity linked to shallow GWT fluctuations and compared with adjacent annual crop (AC) and pasture (PA) in a field experiment. Groundwater salinity (ECgw) along with depth to GWT and soil salinity (ECsoil at 0–60 cm depth) were measured along transects within each land‐use practice in two Prairie Pothole Region (PPR) wetland sites (A and B). The variations in ECgw were significant (p < 0.05) across land‐uses; however, inconsistent in both sites. The positive correlation with ECgw, ECsoil, and total dissolved salts (TDS) indicated higher salinity and salt accumulation with increased depth to GWT in both sites. The ECsoil varied significantly (p < 0.05) among land‐use practices; however, land‐use patterns were not consistent in both sites. Throughout the experimentation, site B consistently exhibited higher ECsoil (two‐fold) than site A. We observed a decreasing inclination in ECsoil with increasing SRW biomass at both depths (i.e., 0–30 and 30–60 cm) and vice versa. This study refines our knowledge of SRW plantation‐linked potential hydrological alteration and its implication on salinity, which provides a critical context for degraded marginal riparian wetland soil management in the PPR.
Marangoni‐bioconvectional flow of Reiner–Philippoff nanofluid with melting phenomenon and nonuniform heat source/sink in the presence of a swimming microorganisms
Authors: Waqas Hassan , Farooq Umar , Alshehri Hashim M. , Goodarzi Marjan
Published: September 2021

The nanofluids are more practical to enhance the heat transfer compared to regular fluids. Such effectiveness in mind causes this communication's concern to investigate the Darcy–Forchheimer flow of Reiner–Philippoff nanofluid with heat source/sink, thermal conductivity in the occurrence of motile microorganisms over the stretching surface. The melting phenomenon is also considered. For this purpose, the set of nonlinear partial differential equation (PDE) is converted into ordinary differential equation (ODE) using the required translation of similarities. These obtained simple ordinary differential equations are solved using the built‐in MATLAB computational tool bvp4c method. The graphical outcomes are delineated for velocity, temperature, concentration, and motile microorganisms profiles via Lewis number, fluid parameter, radiation parameter, thermophoresis parameter, Brownian motion parameter, Prandtl number, bioconvection Lewis number, Reynolds number, Peclet number, and bioconvection Rayleigh number, respectively. The numerical data confirm that the coefficient of wall heat transfer reduces for the greater values of the Schmidt number and thermophoresis parameter. The heat profile is reduced for the higher magnitude of the Prandtl number while boosted up for the higher estimations of thermal radiation parameter. The mass transfer of microorganisms is boosted via the Peclet and bioconvection Lewis number.
A computational approach for finding the numerical solution of modified unstable nonlinear Schrödinger equation via Haar wavelets
Authors: Abdullah Abdullah , Rafiq Mohd
Published: September 2021

In this work, we combined the Haar wavelet collocation method with the backward Euler difference formula to determine the approximate solutions of the modified unstable nonlinear Schrödinger equation. The backward Euler difference formula estimates the time derivative term and the Haar wavelet collocation method estimate the space derivative terms of the modified unstable nonlinear Schrödinger equation. This approach reduces the modified unstable nonlinear Schrödinger equation into a finite system of linear equations. In addition, we substantiate the efficiency and accuracy of the method graphically and numerically with the help of four examples.
Fabrication and characterization of glutathione‐responsive nanoparticles from the disulfide bond‐bridged block copolymer
Authors: Shi Yongli , Yang Mingbo , Pan Xiaofei , Yu Shasha , Wang Xiao
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this paper is to fabricate novel nanoparticles (NPs) from a single disulfide bond‐bridged block copolymer poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate)‐S‐S‐polycaprolactone (PHEMA‐S‐S‐PCL). The novel biomaterial was synthesized by ring‐opening polymerization and reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer polymerization. The cargo‐free NPs were fabricated with the solvent evaporation method, and studies on NPs' characterizations were carried out. The hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra confirmed the synthesis of PHEMA‐S‐S‐PCL copolymer. Thermo‐gravimetric analysis curves indicated that the obtained PHEMA‐S‐S‐PCL copolymer had good thermostability. Transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scatter results suggested that the cargo‐free NPs were in round shapes with an average diameter of 103.6 ± 0.12 nm. The low critical micelle concentration of cargo‐free NPs (7.9 × 10−4 mg/ml) indicated that these NPs would keep their spherical shapes after being attenuated by abundant liquid (e.g., blood or body fluid). Furthermore, these NPs showed high stability at the presence of bovine serum albumin. Therefore, it could be speculated that these NPs would not be absorbed by proteins in blood, and they could be used as a candidate carrier for drug delivery.
How I approach disease‐modifying therapy in children with sickle cell disease in an era of novel therapies
Authors: Karkoska Kristine , McGann Patrick T.
Published: September 2021

Finally,after decades of stagnation, the therapeutic landscape for sickle cell disease (SCD) is changing with an increasing number of novel therapeutics. Hydroxyurea remains the primary disease‐modifying therapy and, when started early in life with maintenance of an optimal dose, can reduce many SCD‐related complications. To complement hydroxyurea, there are a growing number of pharmacologic options with additional efforts focused on the development and optimization of curative therapies. Here, we review current treatment options and provide recommendations as to how to approach the treatment of children and adolescents within this evolving therapeutic landscape to allow for full and healthy lives.
Impact of graphene oxide nanoparticles and carbon black on the gamma radiation sensitization of acrylonitrile–butadiene rubber seal materials
Authors: Eyssa Hanan. M. , Elnaggar Mona Y. , Zaky Magdy M.
Published: September 2021

Seals prepared from acrylonitrile–butadiene rubber (NBR) are primarily used in nuclear services. Nevertheless, at relatively high ionizing radiation doses, NBR seal materials may undergo radiation‐induced degradation processes, leading to adverse effects on the sealing ability life. Herein, to strengthen the functional characteristics of NBR seals against radiation, graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles were prepared and characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and ultraviolet/visible spectroscopies. Various NBR/GO composites fabricated with different ratios of GO nanoparticles and in the presence or absence of carbon black (CB) were investigated via cross‐linking density, scanning electron microscopy, XRD, FTIR, and mechanical and thermal stability analyses. The synergistic effect of the simultaneous presence of GO and CB on the NBR seal sensitization to gamma radiation up to a dose of 1 MGy was studied. The physicomechanical properties were enhanced by adding GO nanosheets up to 3 phr and by incorporating 35 phr of a CB with GO until 5 phr. Further, the application of γ‐irradiation resulted in an overall enhancement in the mechanical, physical, and thermal stability of the prepared composites up to 0.5 and 1 MGy with GO nanosheets in the absence or presence of CB particles, respectively. The mechanical measurements indicated significant increments by loading with GO nanosheets in the absence and presence of CB as well as by irradiation. The tensile strength elevated up to about 121%, 336%, and 366% by adding 3 phr GO, 3 GO:35 CB phr, and 5 GO:35 CB phr, respectively.
Outcomes of early repeat sweat testing in infants with cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator‐related metabolic syndrome/CF screen‐positive, inconclusive diagnosis
Authors: Terlizzi Vito , Claut Laura , Colombo Carla , Tosco Antonella , Castaldo Alice , Fabrizzi Benedetta , Lucarelli Marco , Cimino Giuseppe , Carducci Carla , Dolce Daniela , Biffi Arianna , Bonomi Paolo , Timpano Silviana , Padoan Rita
Published: September 2021

Background

Reaching early and definitive diagnosis in infants with cystic fibrosis (CF) transmembrane conductance regulator‐related metabolic syndrome (CRMS)/CF screen‐positive, inconclusive diagnosis (CFSPID) is a priority of all CF newborn screening programs. Currently, sweat testing (ST) is the gold standard for CF diagnosis or exclusion. We assessed outcomes in a cohort of Italian CRMS/CFSPID infants who underwent repeat ST in the 1st year of life.

Methods

This multicentre, prospective study analysed clinical data and outcomes in CRMS/CFSPID infants born between September 1, 2018, and December 31, 2019, and followed until June 30, 2020. All subjects underwent CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene sequencing and the search for CFTR macrodeletions/macroduplications, and repeat ST in the 1st year of life.

Results

Fifty subjects (median age at end of follow‐up, 16 months [range, 7–21 months]) were enrolled. Forty‐one (82%) had the first sweat chloride (SC) in the intermediate range. During follow up, 150 STs were performed (range, 1–7/infant). After a median follow‐up of 8.5 months (range, 1–16.2 months), 11 (22%) subjects were definitively diagnosed as follows: CF (n = 2 [4%]) at 2 and 5 months, respectively; healthy carrier (n = 8 [16%]), at a median age of 4 months (range, 2–8 months); and healthy (n = 1 [2%]) at 2 months of age. Inconclusive diagnosis remained in 39 (78%) infants.

Conclusions

Early repeat ST in the 1st year of life can shorten the time to definitive diagnosis in screening positive subjects with initial SC levels in the intermediate range.
Metal Oxides/Carbon Black (MOs/CB) Composites and Their Effect on the Thermal Decomposition of Ammonium Perchlorate
Authors: Ukhin Konstantin O. , Kondrashova Natalia B. , Valtsifer Victor A. , Oshchepkova Tamara E. , Savastyanova Maria A. , Strelnikov Vladimir N. , Mokrushin Ivan G.
Published: September 2021

This paper deals with metal oxides/carbon black (MOs/CB) composites and their influence on the thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate. It is shown that the developed synthesis method can be used to form the nanosized metal oxide coating on the surface of the carbon carrier. The SEM and DLS data demonstrate that the particle size for the MOs/CB catalysts ranges from 200 to 500 nm. The XRD analysis has revealed that the bivalent copper and nickel oxides are formed on the surface of the carbon support. The DSC study on the effect of MOs/CB on the thermolysis of ammonium perchlorate shows that the MOs/CB catalysts contribute to a lowering in the peak temperatures of the low and high temperature AP decomposition stages. It has also been found that bioxide MOs / CB catalysts are more efficient in this case than monoxide catalysts. The evaluation of mass spectrometry results for the decomposition products of AP formed in the presence of carbon‐based mono‐ and bioxide catalysts makes it possible to conclude that the carbon base of metal oxide catalysts causes the low‐temperature AP decomposition to proceed deep in the composite. MOs/CB catalysts, in turn, ensure a more complete decomposition of ammonium perchlorate followed by the formation of a greater number of oxidized and reduced forms of low molecular weight composites. It has been established that, for bioxide MOs/CB catalysts, the amount of chlorine formed exceeds the corresponding value for pure AP by more than ∼4 times.
Magnetic and Critical Properties of Cr1/3NbS1.86 with TC = 56 K
Authors: Mao Qianhui , Wang Yuan , Li Ruixue , Qian Jiayun , Wang Hangdong , Chen Bin , Ding Jun , Khan Rajwali , Hao Haoshan , Yang Jinhu
Published: September 2021

The magnetic and critical properties of a TeBr‐transported CrNbS single crystal using magnetic susceptibility χ(T) and isothermal magnetization M(H) measurements are studied. A paramagnetic‐to‐ferromagnetic phase transition temperature (T
C) is determined to be 56 K from χ(T) and an Arrott–Noakes’ plot. At high temperatures (T ≥ 85 K), χ(T) is well captured by the Curie–Weiss law and the effective magnetic moment is derived as P
eff = 3.77 μ
B per Cr. The signature of helical and chiral soliton spin structures is absent, as inferred from the (H, 2 K) data. The spontaneous magnetic moment P = 1.66 μ
B per Cr compared with P
eff, leading to the Rhodes–Wohlfarth ratio to be 1.75, is rather small, suggesting a slightly itinerant magnetism. However, the spin‐wave (SW) model describes the temperature‐dependent magnetization better than the single‐particle (SP) model. Further, analysis of the critical exponent yields β = 0.3852(1) and γ = 1.3575(4), which are close to the theoretical prediction of the 3D Heisenberg model and therefore suggests dominant short‐range ferromagnetic interactions. Finally, the deviation of the critical exponents from the theoretical model and the violation of Widom scaling law is discussed.
A modeling framework to quantify the effects of compaction on soil water retention and infiltration
Authors: Ngo‐Cong Duc , Antille Diogenes L. , Th. van Genuchten Martinus , Nguyen Hung Q. , Tekeste Mehari Z. , Baillie Craig P. , Godwin Richard J.
Published: September 2021

The water retention curve (WRC) of arable soils from the southeastern United States at different levels of compaction (no compaction, and 10 and 20% increases in soil bulk density) was estimated using the van Genuchten–Mualem (VG) model. The VG water retention parameters of the noncompacted soils were obtained first by fitting measured soil hydraulic data. To construct the WRC of the compacted soils, gravimetric values of the permanent wilting point (θgw, 1,500 kPa) and the residual (θgr) water content were assumed to remain unchanged with compaction. The VG parameter α and exponent η after compaction were estimated using two approaches. In Approach 1, α and η were estimated from saturation, the permanent wilting point, and the residual water content. In Approach 2, the value of η was assumed to remain unchanged with compaction, which allowed α to be estimated immediately from the VG equation. Approach 2 was found to give slightly better agreement with measured data than Approach 1. The effect of compaction on the saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) was predicted using semitheoretical approaches and the VG‐WRC function. HYDRUS‐1D was further used to simulate vertical infiltration into a single‐layered soil profile to determine the impact of compaction on the infiltration characteristics of the soils used in our analyses. Results showed that a 10–20% increase in soil bulk density, due to compaction, reduced cumulative infiltration (Ic) at time T = Tfinal (steady‐state) by 55–82%, and the available water storage capacity by 3–49%, depending upon soil type.
Copper‐Catalyzed Arylation of Olefins Using a Novel N,N‐Bidentate TRAM‐Based Ligand: Application in Synthesis of Functionalized Triarylmethanes[]**
Authors: Hosseini Raziyeh , Ranjbar‐Karimi Reza , Mohammadiannejad Kazem
Published: September 2021

3,3′‐((phenylmethylene)bis(4‐methoxy‐3,1‐phenylene))dipyridine L was used as a novel N,N‐bidentate triarylmethane‐based ligand in Mizoroki‐Heck reactions. This air and moisture stable ligand was identified as a useful alternative to the commonly used phosphine ligands. The in‐situ generated complex of L with Cu(OAc)2showed excellent activity in cross coupling of aldehydes with olefins and a selected library of formylated olefins was prepared in high yields. The Friedel‐Crafts alkylation of arenes with the derived olefins catalyzed by Fe(OTs)3was also employed for the preparation of functionalized triarylmethanes. This alternative method offers several important advantages including mild reaction conditions, short reaction times, high yields, simple work‐up procedure, and broad substrate scope.
Synthesis of Arylfurans by Organic‐Solvent‐Free Method Using Phosphoric Acid as a Solvent and Catalyst
Authors: Ajibola Ibrahim Yusuf , Ai Liankun , Li Baolin
Published: September 2021

Phosphoric acid when being used as a solvent readily catalysed the cyclization reaction of 1,4‐dicarbonyl compounds to furnish a broad range of arylfuran compounds using the Paal‐Knorr furan synthetic method. The advantages of this synthetic method include an organic‐solvent‐free system, cheap and recyclable catalyst, easy experimental setup under air, short reaction time, wide substrate scope, broad functional group tolerance, eminent atom economy and excellent yields. The recovered acidic catalyst could be reused many times without significant loss in the catalytic activity. The photophysical properties of some selected arylfurans were examined in dilute solution. We found that most of the arylfurans emit in deep blue or violet region with moderate to high absolute quantum yields.
Did video gaming expansion boost municipal revenues in Illinois?
Authors: Wagner Gary A. , Walker Douglas M.
Published: September 2021

One supposed benefit of authorizing video gaming terminals (VGTs) outside of casinos is to improve the fiscal health of local governments. Illinois passed the Video Gaming Act in 2009, enabling individual municipalities to allow VGTs. To date, the machines have generated $400 million in municipal tax revenues and $2 billion for the state. We use a difference‐in‐differences strategy that adjusts for staggered adoption to isolate the causal effect of VGTs on municipal revenues. We find that VGTs displace other local taxable retail, leaving total municipal revenues unchanged. The video gaming act merely reallocated economic activity and did little to improve municipal finances.
Effect of the Initial Columnar‐Grained Inhomogeneity of Electrical Steels on the Transformation Temperature
Authors: Wu Xiaolong , Yang Ping , Gu Xinfu , Cui Fenge
Published: September 2021

The effects of various initial structures and heating and cooling rates on the columnar‐grained transformation temperature are studied by a thermal dilatometer and electron backscatter diffraction. The results show that deformation can reduce the thermal hysteresis more effectively than decrease the heating rate, and the phase transformation hysteresis of the deformed sample is the smallest during heating, followed by the columnar‐grained sample with a slow heating rate, whereas the columnar‐grained sample with a fast heating rate has the largest phase transformation hysteresis. Moreover, the dilatational amount changes greatly with cooling rate. The coarse columnar grains can severely restrain dilatation. The smaller dilatational amount is related to the incomplete phase transformation of the columnar grains and also related to the suppression of the dilatational amount of the small grains by the surrounding columnar grains. In contrast, the largest dilatational amount is caused by the relatively sufficient phase transformation. In addition, the changes of the transformation temperature and the dilatational amount are mainly induced by the grain size effect and the inhomogeneity of the structures, but {100} texture can affect the uniformity of grain size.
Effect of CaCl2 Addition on Phosphorus Distribution in CaO–SiO2–FeOx–P2O5 Converter Slags
Authors: Yan Ziwen , Deng Zhiyin , Zhu Miaoyong
Published: September 2021

Laboratory experiments are carried out to investigate the effect of CaCl2 addition on the phosphorus distribution in CaO–SiO2–FeOx–P2O5 converter slags. Some slags with different slag basicity [R = w(CaO)/w(SiO2)] and P2O5 contents are melted at steelmaking temperature and further analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). It is found that the nature of liquid is generally seen in the slags with low basicity (R = 1.0). With the increase in slag basicity and CaCl2 content, the proportion of 2CaO·SiO2–3CaO·P2O5 (C2S–C3P) solid solution in the slags climbs in general, but the P content in C2S–C3P is degraded. A new P‐rich phase Ca5Cl(PO4)3 (C5P3Cl) with a fixed P content can be observed in the high‐basicity slags (R ≥ 1.5), when the contents of CaCl2 and P2O5 are sufficiently high. Higher contents of both CaCl2 and P2O5 can further promote the proportion of C5P3Cl. The addition of CaCl2 is unfavorable for the recycling of P from CaCl2‐added slags, but its effect is still limited in case of a small amount.
Recent progress in multi‐scale modeling and simulation of flow and solute transport in porous media
Authors: Yang Xiaofan , Sun Haoran , Yang Yurong , Liu Yuanyuan , Li Xiaoyan
Published: September 2021

The heterogeneity and multi‐scale characteristics of porous media (such as soil aquifers) bring a series of uncertainties in studying flow and solute transport. In particular, the mathematical representation of these physical processes at different temporal and spatial scales, that is, the constitutive equations and parameters, is largely varied, which creates grand challenges in multi‐scale modeling and numerical simulation of flow and solute transport in porous media. In recent years, we acknowledge that at‐scale models and simulations have been greatly progressed, which means that at each individual scale, the transport phenomena, numerical methods, and solvers have been developed and utilized at different levels. However, the long‐standing problem, scale coupling between the pore‐ and Darcy‐scale in porous media, has not been well resolved. In this review, we present an overview and classification of the current multi‐scale models, aiming to understand small‐scale flow and solute transport processes when/where needed in a larger system. This review begins with a brief introduction of the pore‐ and Darcy‐scale theories. Two groups of multi‐scale models that are state‐of‐the‐art, based on the Darcy–Brinkman–Stokes equation and the domain decomposition method, respectively, are explained in the context of research progress in model theory, numerical algorithms, and applications. Future research perspectives and challenges are also discussed from both modeling and application points of view. This review is expected to provide a fundamental understanding of flow and solute transport in porous media and concept of developing multi‐scale models to bridge the gaps between processes in adjacent scales.

This article is categorized under:

Science of Water > Water Quality

Science of Water > Methods

Science of Water > Hydrological Processes
Effects of light and water disturbance on the growth of Microcystis aeruginosa and the release of algal toxins
Authors: Xu Shaofeng , Zhang Lingyue , Lin Kaizong , Bai Miao , Wang Yue , Xu Mengyao , Zhang Minglu , Zhang Can , Shi Yun , Zhou He
Published: September 2021

Eutrophication of water constitutes a serious threat to global water quality. Light intensity and water disturbance are important factors affecting the growth of algae and the release of algal toxins. In this study, algal growth indicators, algal enzyme systems, and algal toxin release in Microcystis aeruginosa under different light intensities and water disturbances were determined. The results showed that 2500 lx and 120 rpm were the optimal conditions for the growth of M. aeruginosa. The growth of algal cells was inhibited by high light intensity and high water disturbance. However, the optimal conditions for algal growth were not favorable conditions for the release of algal toxin. The highest concentration of microcystin‐LR (MC‐LR), observed at 4500 lx and 80 rpm, was 198.1 μg/L, whereas the highest single cell toxin production reached up to 10.49 × 10−9 μg/cell at 7000 lx and 120 rpm. Redundancy analysis results showed that the concentration of MC‐LR was positively correlated with algal cell density and antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and malondialdehyde [MDA]) and negatively correlated with the total nitrogen and total phosphorus consumption rates and MDA. Single cell toxin production was negatively correlated with algal cell density and antioxidant enzyme activity but positively correlated with MDA content.

Practitioner Points

There was an optimal water disturbance condition for algae growth affected by the light intensity.

Optimal conditions for algae cell growth are not necessarily the optimal conditions for algal toxin release.

Enzyme indicators have correlation with the release of algae toxins and the growth of algae cells.
Monitoring Tasks in Aerospace
Authors: Pant Shashank , Sharif Khodaei Zahra , Droubi Mohamad Ghazi
Published: September 2021

Approximately up to one-fifth of the direct operating cost of a commercial civilian fixed-wing aircraft is projected to be due to inspection and maintenance alone. Managing aircraft health with minimal human intervention and technologies that can perform continuous or on-demand monitoring/evaluation of aircraft components without having to take the aircraft out of service can have a significant impact on increasing availability while reducing maintenance cost. The ambition of these monitoring technologies is to shift aircraft maintenance practice from planned maintenance (PM), where the aircraft is taken out of service for scheduled inspection/maintenance, to condition-based maintenance (CBM), where aircraft is taken out of service only when maintenance is required, while maintaining the required levels of safety. Structural health monitoring (SHM) techniques can play a vital role in progressing towards CBM practice. Therefore, this chapter aims to provide the reader with a brief overview of the different SHM techniques and their use, as well as, challenges in implementing them for aircraft applications.
Strain Monitoring
Authors: Vanlanduit Steve , Sorgente Mario , Zadeh Aydin R. , Güemes Alfredo , Faisal Nadimul
Published: September 2021

This chapter provides an overview of the use of strain sensors for structural health monitoring. Compared to acceleration-based sensors, strain sensors can measure the deformation of a structure at very low frequencies (up to DC) and enable the measurement of ultrasonic responses. Many existing SHM methods make use of strain measurement data. Furthermore, strain sensors can be easily integrated in (aircraft) structures. This chapter discusses the working principle of traditional strain gauges (Sect. 8.1) and different types of optical fiber sensors (Sect. 8.2). The installation requirements of strain sensors and the required hardware for reading out sensors are provided. We will also give an overview of the advantages and the limitations of commonly used strain sensors. Finally, we will present an overview of the applications of strain sensors for structural health monitoring in the aeronautics field.
Einleitung
Authors: Kenner Steve
Published: September 2021

Politische Bildung ist Unterrichtsfach, Unterrichtsprinzip, Querschnittsaufgabe der schulischen und außerschulischen Bildung, Bildungsauftrag und wesentlicher Bestandteil unserer Demokratie, denn „Demokratie ist die einzige staatlich verfasste Gesellschaftsordnung, die gelernt werden muss – früh, im Kindergarten, aber auch im hohen Alter“. Damit meint der Soziologe Oskar Negt nicht, oder zumindest nicht nur das bestehende politische System, die parlamentarische Demokratie mit all ihren Facetten. Negt betont Demokratie vielmehr als Lebensform ohne dabei den Begriff zu entpolitisieren.
Runcaciguat, a novel soluble guanylate cyclase activator, shows renoprotection in hypertensive, diabetic, and metabolic preclinical models of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Bénardeau Agnès , Kahnert Antje , Schomber Tibor , Meyer Jutta , Pavkovic Mira , Kretschmer Axel , Lawrenz Bettina , Hartmann Elke , Mathar Ilka , Hueser Joerg , Kraehling Jan R. , Eitner Frank , Hahn Michael G. , Stasch Johannes-Peter , Sandner Peter
Published: September 2021

Chronic kidney diseaQueryse (CKD) is associated with oxidative stress which can interrupt the nitric oxide (NO)/soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) signaling and decrease cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) production. Low cGMP concentrations can cause kidney damage and progression of CKD. The novel sGC activator runcaciguat targets the oxidized and heme-free form of sGC, restoring cGMP production under oxidative stress. The purpose of this study is to investigate if runcaciguat could provide an effective treatment for CKD. Runcaciguat was used for the treatment not only in rat CKD models with different etiologies and comorbidities, namely of hypertensive rats, the renin transgenic (RenTG) rat, and angiotensin-supplemented (ANG-SD) rat, but also in rats with diabetic and metabolic CKD, the Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rat. The treatment duration was 2 to 42 weeks and runcaciguat was applied orally in doses from 1 to 10 mg/kg/bid. In these different rat CKD models, runcaciguat significantly reduced proteinuria (urinary protein to creatinine ratio; uPCR). These effects were also significant at doses which did not or only moderately decrease systemic blood pressure. Moreover, runcaciguat significantly decreased kidney injury biomarkers and attenuated morphological kidney damages. In RenTG rats, runcaciguat improved survival rates and markers of heart injury. These data demonstrate that the sGC activator runcaciguat exhibits cardio-renal protection at doses which did not reduce blood pressure and was effective in hypertensive as well as diabetic and metabolic CKD models. These data, therefore, suggest that runcaciguat, with its specific mode of action, represents an efficient treatment approach for CKD and associated CV diseases.

Graphical abstract
Magnitude, Scale, and Dynamics of the 2020 Mei-yu Rains and Floods over China
Authors: Volonté Ambrogio , Muetzelfeldt Mark , Schiemann Reinhard , Turner Andrew G. , Klingaman Nicholas
Published: September 2021

Large parts of East and South Asia were affected by heavy precipitation and flooding during early summer 2020. This study provides both a statistical and dynamical characterization of rains and floods affecting the Yangtze River Basin (YRB). By aggregating daily and monthly precipitation over river basins across Asia, it is shown that the YRB is one of the areas that was particularly affected. June and July 2020 rainfall was higher than in the previous 20 years, and the YRB experienced anomalously high rainfall across most of its sub-basins. YRB discharge also attained levels not seen since 1998/1999. An automated method detecting the daily position of the East Asian Summer Monsoon Front (EASMF) is applied to show that the anomalously high YRB precipitation was associated with a halted northward progression of the EASMF and prolonged mei-yu conditions over the YRB lasting more than one month. Two 5-day heavy-precipitation episodes (12−16 June and 4−8 July 2020) are selected from this period for dynamical characterization, including Lagrangian trajectory analysis. Particular attention is devoted to the dynamics of the airstreams converging at the EASMF. Both episodes display heavy precipitation and convergence of monsoonal and subtropical air masses. However, clear differences are identified in the upper-level flow pattern, substantially affecting the balance of airmass advection towards the EASMF. This study contextualizes heavy precipitation in Asia in summer 2020 and showcases several analysis tools developed by the authors for the study of such events.
Bone mineral density in high-level endurance runners: Part B—genotype-dependent characteristics
Authors: Herbert A. J. , Williams A. G. , Lockey S. J. , Erskine R. M. , Sale C. , Hennis P. J. , Day S. H. , Stebbings G. K.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Inter-individual variability in bone mineral density (BMD) exists within and between endurance runners and non-athletes, probably in part due to differing genetic profiles. Certainty is lacking, however, regarding which genetic variants may contribute to BMD in endurance runners and if specific genotypes are sensitive to environmental factors, such as mechanical loading via training.

Method

Ten single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified from previous genome-wide and/or candidate gene association studies that have a functional effect on bone physiology. The aims of this study were to investigate (1) associations between genotype at those 10 SNPs and bone phenotypes in high-level endurance runners, and (2) interactions between genotype and athlete status on bone phenotypes.

Results

Female runners withP2RX7rs3751143 AA genotype had 4% higher total-body BMD and 5% higher leg BMD than AC + CC genotypes. Male runners withWNT16rs3801387 AA genotype had 14% lower lumbar spine BMD than AA genotype non-athletes, whilst AG + GG genotype runners also had 5% higher leg BMD than AG + GG genotype non-athletes.

Conclusion

We report novel associations betweenP2RX7rs3751143 genotype and BMD in female runners, whilst differences in BMD between male runners and non-athletes with the sameWNT16rs3801387 genotype existed, highlighting a potential genetic interaction with factors common in endurance runners, such as high levels of mechanical loading. These findings contribute to our knowledge of the genetic associations with BMD and improve our understanding of why some runners have lower BMD than others.