bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Once upon a time…: Using fairy tales as a form of vicarious contact to prevent stigma‐based bullying among schoolchildren
Authors: Cocco Veronica Margherita , Bisagno Elisa , Visintin Emilio Paolo , Cadamuro Alessia , Di Bernardo Gian Antonio , Shamloo Soraya Elizabeth , Trifiletti Elena , Molinari Luisa , Vezzali Loris
Published: January 2022

We conducted a vicarious contact intervention with the aim of promoting bystanders' intentions to react to stigma‐based bullying among schoolchildren. Participants were Italian primary schoolchildren (N = 117 first to third graders); the outgroup was represented by foreign children. Vicarious contact was operationalized with story reading, creating fairy tales on stigma‐based bullying where minority characters were bullied by majority characters. Once a week for 3 weeks, participants were read fairy tales in small groups by an experimenter and engaged in reinforcing activities. Results revealed that the intervention increased intergroup empathy (but not intergroup perspective‐taking) and anti‐bullying peer norms and fostered contact intentions. The intervention also had indirect effects via intergroup empathy on helping and contact intentions and on bystanders' reactions to stigma based‐bullying. We discuss theoretical and practical implications, also in terms of the relevance of the present results for school policy. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article'sCommunity and Social Impact Statement.
Facile Synthesis and High‐Value Utilization of Ammonia
Authors: Luo Yu , Liang Shijing , Wang Xiuyun , Lin Bingyu , Chen Chongqi , Jiang Lilong
Published: January 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Ammonia is a key component in fertilizer and the carbon‐free hydrogen carrier. Catalytic ammonia synthesis and utilization have played a central role in the development of chemical engineering. The industrial production of ammonia remains dependent on the energy‐ and carbon‐intensive Haber–Bosch process. A major effort has been devoted to developing robust and efficient catalysts, as well as alternative benign processes. Herein, we detail our endeavors that develop the ammonia synthesis and decomposition catalysts, and utilize the ammonia energy. We firstly discuss the catalysts for ammonia synthesis via dissociative and associative process, and the regulation of catalysts’ properties. Then, we review the burgeoning electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction process, focusing on the enhanced catalytic performances by the regulation of the catalysts and the electrode. Additionally, we provide a novel high‐value utilization of ammonia to achieve the “zero‐carbon” circular economy. The promising catalysts, reactors, and ammonia energy systems have been discussed in detail. We end this Account that offers future research directions and prospects of ammonia.

What is the most favorite and original chemistry developed in your research group?

Ammonia synthesis catalysts and ammonia energy.

How do you get into this specific field? Could you please share some experiences with our readers?

I have received my B.S. in 1997. After graduation from college, I have joined Prof. Kemei Wei's group at the National Engineering Research Center of Chemical Fertilizer Catalyst, Fuzhou University. Since 1972, our group has dedicated to the efficient industrial synthesis and high‐value utilization of ammonia. So, I have done much work in this field. I think that the research work should match with the major national demands and global challenges. The researcher should focus on cutting‐edge discoveries and creative work.

How do you supervise your students?

When the students come in our group, I teach them the norms and

standards of academic research and writing. After that, I would formulate the research project based on their motivations, aspirations, and academic background. If they have any problems during the project, I will help them overcome. We discuss termly on their research methods and evaluate their research results. I also encourage the students to prepare in advance for the next steps in their career or further study.

What is the most important personality for scientific research?

Research integrity.

What are your hobbies? What's your favorite book(s)?

I like playing badminton and table tennis. My favorite books are history and industry development plan.

How do you keep the balance between research and family?

The understanding and support from the family are very important. I have increased my efficiency and productivity, and tried alternative schedules.
Robust features fusion utilization for supervised palmprint recognition
Authors: Ata Mohamed Maher , Elgamily Khaled Mohammed , Mohamed Mohamed A.
Published: January 2022

This article proposes robust features fusion methodology for supervised palmprint recognition. The process of features fusion has been formulated according to the hybridization between robust morphological features of principal lines and the following features extractors: principal component analysis (PCA), transformed domain extractors, and invariant moments. The region of interest (ROI) has been extracted based on the identification of the valley points locations. Moreover, both morphological operations and edge detection have been applied in order to formulate the correct ROI. First, both length and slope of each extracted principal line have been estimated morphologically. Second, different features extraction techniques have been applied for the resultant ROI including (PCA), transformed domain, and invariant moments. Finally, seven supervised machine learning methods have been manipulated in order to achieve the highest palmprint recognition accuracy. The accuracy of the recognition was evaluated by measuring sensitivity, dice, precision, Jaccard coefficients, correlation, accuracy, and recognition time. Experimental findings show that, among all tested machine learning methods, the feed forward neural network with back propagation based on features vector of the fusion between invariant moments and principal lines morphology has achieved approximately 99.9% of successful palmprints recognition.
Traffic sign recognition on Indian database using wavelet descriptors and convolutional neural network ensemble
Authors: Sanyal Banhi , Kumar Mohapatra Ramesh , Dash Ratnakar
Published: January 2022

Traffic sign recognition (TSR) has been a rising and lucrative field for researchers during the last decades. The high improvement of ADAS (autonomic driving autonomous system) has led researchers worldwide to concentrate on the development of TSR systems. As such, a novel automated multiclass TSR system is proposed. The architecture uses wavelet descriptors to extract the high information density and the traffic signs' edges and curves. The LL band image is directly fed into the classifier to avoid normalization. Three classifiers, CNN, CNN ensemble, and LSTM, are deployed for recognition. The architecture is implemented on IRSDBv1.0, the first available Indian traffic sign database. The architecture is also implemented on the standard traffic sign database GTSRB to investigate its effectiveness. An efficiency of 71.57% and 96.76% are recorded on IRSDBv1.0, and GTSRB, respectively. A list of comparative results is also provided to prove the competence of the architecture. The reasons behind the difference in the achieved accuracy are also discussed.
Implant‐supported removable partial dentures compared to conventional dentures: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of quality of life, patient satisfaction, and biomechanical complications
Authors: Bandiaky Octave N. , Lokossou Dohoue L. , Soueidan Assem , Le Bars Pierre , Gueye Moctar , Mbodj Elhadj B. , Le Guéhennec Laurent
Published: January 2022

Objectives

The purpose of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to compare implant‐supported removable partial dentures (ISRPDs) with distal extension removable partial dentures (DERPDs) in terms of patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs: patients' quality of life and satisfaction) and to determine mechanical and biological complications associated with ISRPDs.

Material and Methods

An electronic search was performed on four databases to identify studies treating Kennedy class I or II edentulous patients and which compared ISRPDs with DERPDs in terms of PROMS and studies, which evaluated mechanical and biological complications associated ISRPDs. Two authors independently extracted data on quality of life, patient satisfaction, and biomechanical complications from these studies. The risk of bias was assessed for each study, and for PROMs, the authors performed a meta‐analysis by using a random‐effects model.

Results

Thirteen articles were included based on the selection criteria. The difference in mean scores for quality of life (30.5 ± 1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 24.9–36.1) and patient satisfaction (−20.8 ± 0.2; 95% CI, −23.7 to −17.8) between treatments with conventional and implant‐supported removable dentures was statistically significant (p < .05). Implant‐supported removable dentures improved patients' overall quality of life and satisfaction. Some mechanical and biological complications, such as clasp adjustment, abutment or implant loosening, marginal bone resorption, and peri‐implant mucositis, were noted in ISRPDs during patient follow‐up. Studies assessing PROMs were very heterogeneous (I2 = 65%, p = .85; I2 = 75%, p = .88).

Conclusions

ISRPDs significantly improved quality of life and patient satisfaction. Some mechanical and biological complications have been associated with ISRPDs treatment, requiring regular monitoring of patients to avoid the occurrence of these complications.
Critical Time of Palmer Amaranth Removal in Soybean Affected by Residual Herbicides
Authors: Ernst Matt
Published: January 2022

New research in Agronomy Journal (https://doi.org/10.1002/agj2.20615) underscores the importance of residual herbicides in controlling Palmer amaranth in soybeans. The study documented that residuals delayed the critical time of Palmer amaranth removal during seasons that were both wetter and drier than usual. This showed pre‐emergence soil‐applied residuals can buy producers significant time before post‐emergence products may be needed to control weed populations, potentially yielding long‐term benefits for herbicide resistance management. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Integrated Pest Management by reading the article and taking the quiz at https://bit.ly/3oruqh9. View all CEUs online at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
Quantified mitral regurgitation and left atrial function in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: interplay and outcome implications
Authors: Malagoli Alessandro , Rossi Luca , Zanni Alessia , Sticozzi Concetta , Piepoli Massimo F. , Benfari Giovanni
Published: January 2022

Aims

The clinical and prognostic importance of functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) in heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) has been highly debated. This study aims to define FMR linkage to cardiovascular (CV) outcomes and the interplay with left atrial (LA) function in a prospective cohort of consecutive HFrEF outpatients.

Methods and results

Overall, 286 consecutive outpatients with chronic HFrEF were prospectively enrolled. FMR was quantified by effective regurgitant orifice area (EROA). Global peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) was measured by speckle tracking echocardiography. The primary endpoint was a composite of congestive heart failure hospitalization or CV death. During a mean follow‐up of 4.1 ± 1.5 years, the primary endpoint occurred in 99 patients (35%). The spline modelling of the risk by FMR severity showed an excess event risk starting at about the EROA value of 0.1 cm2. There was a remarkable graded association between the EROA strata, even if tested per 0.1 cm2 increase, and the risk of CV events (hazard ratio [HR] EROA per 0.10 cm2 increase: 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.19–1.68; p < 0.0001). EROA ≥0.30 cm2 was associated with CV events regardless of LA function (HR 2.34, 95% CI 1.29–4.19; p = 0.005). Less severe FMR (EROA ≥0.10 cm2) was associated with a dismal outcome only in patients with reduced LA function (PALS <14%) (5‐year CV event rate 51 ± 4%); conversely, the risk of events was relative reduced when preserved global PALS and FMR coexisted (5‐year CV event rate 38 ± 6%).

Conclusions

Our results refine the independent association between FMR and CV outcome among HFrEF outpatients. Within a moderate EROA range, LA function mitigates the clinical consequences of mitral regurgitation, providing measurable proof of the interplay between regurgitation and LA compliance.
Numerical study of dielectrophoresis‐modified inertial migration for overlapping sized cell separation
Authors: Khan Mohammed , Chen Xiaolin
Published: January 2022

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have been proven to have significant prognostic, diagnostic, and clinical values in early‐stage cancer detection and treatment. The efficient separation of CTCs from peripheral blood can ensure intact and viable CTCs and can, thus, give proper genetic characterization and drug innovation. In this study, continuous and high‐throughput separation of MDA‐231 CTCs from overlapping sized white blood cells (WBCs) is achieved by modifying inertial cell focusing with dielectrophoresis (DEP) in a single‐stage microfluidic platform by numeric simulation. The DEP is enabled by embedding interdigitated electrodes with alternating field control on a serpentine microchannel to avoid creating two‐stage separation. Rather than using the electrokinetic migration of cells which slows down the throughput, the system leverages the inertial microfluidic flow to achieve high‐speed continuous separation. The cell migration and cell positioning characteristics are quantified through coupled physics analyses to evaluate the effects of the applied voltages and Reynolds numbers (Re) on the separation performance. The results indicate that the introduction of DEP successfully migrates WBCs away from CTCs and that separation of MDA‐231 CTCs from similar sized WBCs at a high Re of 100 can be achieved with a low voltage of magnitude 4 ×106 V/m. Additionally, the viability of MDA‐231 CTCs is expected to be sustained after separation due to the short‐term DEP exposure. The developed technique could be exploited to design active microchips for high‐throughput separation of mixed cell beads despite their significant size overlap, using DEP‐modified inertial focusing controlled simply by adjusting the applied external field.
High‐performance hole‐selective V2OX/SiOX/NiOX contact for crystalline silicon solar cells
Authors: Du Guanlin , Li Le , Zhu Haiyin , Lu Linfeng , Zhou Xi , Gu Zeyu , Zhang Shan‐Ting , Yang Xinbo , Wang Jilei , Yang Liyou , Chen Xiaoyuan , Li Dongdong
Published: January 2022

High work function vanadium oxide (V2OX, X < 5) is expected to induce strong upward band bending at crystalline silicon (c‐Si) surface thus selectively collect photogenerated hole‐carriers. However, the performance of c‐Si solar cells employing V2OX‐based hole‐selective contacts is still under expectation. Herein, we improve the hole‐selectivity of V2OX in combination with NiOX. The innovative V2OX/NiOX stack shows reduced contact resistivity but deteriorated minority carrier lifetime due to undesired interfacial reaction between V2OX and NiOX. Inserting an ultrathin SiOX interlayer suppresses the reaction and preserves the high work function of V2OX. A remarkable power conversion efficiency of 22.03% (fill factor of 83.07%) was achieved on p‐type c‐Si solar cells featuring a full‐area V2OX/SiOX/NiOX rear contact, which is so far the highest value reported for V2OX‐based selective contacts. Our work highlights the significance of implementing p‐type transition‐metal‐oxides to boost the selectivity of V2OX and the like.

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Distributional modeling and forecasting of natural gas prices
Authors: Berrisch Jonathan , Ziel Florian
Published: January 2022

We examine the problem of modeling and forecasting European day‐ahead and month‐ahead natural gas prices. For this, we propose two distinct probabilistic models that can be utilized in risk and portfolio management. We use daily pricing data ranging from 2011 to 2020. Extensive descriptive data analysis shows that both time series feature heavy tails and conditional heteroscedasticity and show asymmetric behavior in their differences. We propose state‐space time series models under skewed, heavy‐tailed distributions to capture all stylized facts of the data. They include the impact of autocorrelation, seasonality, risk premia, temperature, storage levels, the price of European Emission Allowances, and related fuel prices of oil, coal, and electricity. We provide rigorous model diagnostics and interpret all model components in detail. Additionally, we conduct a probabilistic forecasting study with significance tests and compare the predictive performance against literature benchmarks. The proposed day‐ahead (month‐ahead) model leads to a 13% (9%) reduction in out‐of‐sample continuous ranked probability score (CRPS) compared with the best performing benchmark model, mainly due to adequate modeling of the volatility and heavy tails.
Active control of compressible channel flow up to Mab=3 using direct numerical simulations with spanwise velocity modulation at the walls
Authors: Ruby Marius , Foysi Holger
Published: January 2022

Active turbulence control has been pursued continuously for the last decades, striving for an altered, energetically more favorable flow. In this article, our focus is on a promising method inducing a spanwise wall movement in order to reduce turbulence intensity and hence friction drag, investigated by means of direct numerical simulation. This approach transforms a previously time dependent oscillatory wall motion into a static spatial modulation with prescribed wavelength in the streamwise direction [48]. Most procedures related to turbulence control including the present one have been overwhelmingly applied to incompressible flow. This work is different and novel to the effect, that this control method is applied to compressible, supersonic channel flow up to a bulk Mach number of . Due to substantial variations of viscosity, density, and temperature within the near‐wall region in supersonic flow, the impact of the control method is altered compared to solenoidal flow conditions. By creating a data set of different Mach‐/Reynolds numbers and control parameters, knowledge is gained in which way the effectiveness of oscillatory techniques and physical mechanisms change under the influence of compressibility. It is shown that the control method is able to effectively reduce turbulence levels and lead to large drag reduction levels in compressible supersonic flow. Variable property effects even enhance this behavior for the whole set of investigated parameters. Overall, the higher Mach number cases show a larger net power saving compared to the incompressible ones. Furthermore, we observe an increase of the optimum wavelength with increasing Mach number, which helps in guiding optimal implementations of such a control method.
A balanced digital diet for under 5s: A commentary on Orben (2021)
Authors: Bidgood Amy , Taylor Gemma , Kolak Joanna , Bent Eve Marie , Hickman Nicola
Published: January 2022

Orben (2021) proposed a ‘Digital Diet’ approach to thinking about children's consumption of digital media. Here, we consider the Digital Diet with a focus on young children under 5. As well as discussing how Type and Amount apply to this age group, we argue that Balance needs to be considered differently for young children, and their families, compared to older children and adolescents. Considering the developmental needs of preschool children, we suggest that Balance must include not only a balance of activities within the digital world, but beyond it. The Digital Diet should be part of a wider healthy lifestyle, involving a range of activities and, crucially, social interaction. We also suggest an additional dietary factor: Timing of digital media use. Supporting children to form healthy Digital Diet habits early in life, may enable them to maintain a healthy digital lifestyle themselves as they continue to grow.
Composition analysis of white mineral pigment based on convolutional neural network and Raman spectrum
Authors: Qi Wenbo , Mu Taotao , Chen Shaohua , Wang Yao
Published: January 2022

Exploiting portable Raman equipment to analyze the composition of mineral pigments has the advantages of convenience and speed. However, this method is more susceptible to ambient light, so it is necessary to develop an effective Raman spectrum identification method. Several studies have recently employed machine learning algorithms to automatically identify the Raman spectra of pigments and have revealed appealing results. Hence, in this paper, we propose a deep convolutional neural network that exploits portable Raman equipment to identify the components of white mineral pigments. Compared with classic methods, our technique achieved a higher matching rate of up to 98.7%. The experimental results show that the proposed method can analyze the composition of white mineral pigments in a real‐time, nondestructive, and accurate manner without requiring pretreatment of the spectra. We believe that our proposed method will be an essential tool for the detection of pigment components in archeological sites.
Dehydration rate of the glycine‐MgSO4·5H2O complex and the stability of glycine expelled from the complex by in situ Raman spectroscopy under Mars‐relevant conditions
Authors: Bonales Laura J. , Rodríguez‐Villagra Nieves , Fernandez‐Sampedro Maite , Mateo‐Martí Eva
Published: January 2022

In this work, we studied the dehydration process of the glycine‐MgSO4·5H2O complex under Mars‐relevant conditions (99% CO2 and 0.6% H2O under ultra violet (UV) irradiation exposure at 7‐mbar pressure and high vacuum conditions: 8 × 10−5 and 5 × 10−5 mbar) by in situ Raman spectroscopy inside a planetary atmosphere and surface chamber (PASC). This work provides quality Raman spectra taken under simulated planetary conditions (to be integrated in a database), as Raman spectroscopy forms part of the current and upcoming NASA and ESA Mars planetary missions. The results demonstrate that Raman spectroscopy can be used to calculate rates of dehydration of the glycine‐MgSO4·5H2O compound to study the chemical stability with respect to photodecomposition (1) of metal‐bound glycine molecules forming the complex and (2) glycine expelled from the complex, both under Mars‐simulated conditions; finally, Raman spectroscopy can also be used to quantify intermolecular interactions in terms of local pressures. Importantly, advanced detection of water molecules as part of a complex with astrobiological interest under planetary conditions plays a crucial role in planetary missions.
Breeding expansion of sandhill cranes in Quebec
Authors: Casabona I Amat Clara , Adde Antoine , Mazerolle Marc J. , Lepage Christine , Darveau Marcel
Published: January 2022

Sandhill cranes (Antigone canadensis) were broadly extirpated from much of their historical range in North America at the beginning of the twentieth century. Various conservation‐related legislation, such as the United States Migratory Bird Treaty Act, have assisted with population recovery. The eastern population of sandhill cranes has been growing rapidly since the 1980s and is thought to have expanded its geographic range to Quebec, Canada. Understanding the colonization and habitat use by the species in previously unoccupied breeding areas is necessary to develop and apply management measures. Using a dynamic occupancy modeling approach, we investigated the recent colonization and extirpation patterns of sandhill cranes in Quebec from 2004–2019. We combined data from 3 data sets (helicopter surveys, breeding bird atlas surveys, and eBird) to increase the spatial coverage and the number of species occurrence records while accounting for imperfect detection probability. Detection probability was highest for the helicopter survey (0.70), whereas the 2 other data sets had relatively low detection levels (0.10–0.26). Based on a simulation study, we found that excluding the eBird data from the analysis produced more biased estimates than excluding the atlas and helicopter survey data sets. Throughout the study, sandhill cranes seemed to have completed their colonization of western Quebec and only recently started to nest in eastern areas. Initial occupancy increased with wetland cover and colonization probability increased weakly with the cover of agricultural areas, suggesting that in our study area sandhill cranes rely essentially on natural wetlands during the breeding season.
Use of predictive distribution models to describe habitat selection by bats in Colorado, USA
Authors: Neubaum Daniel J. , Aagaard Kevin
Published: January 2022

Numerous processes operating at landscape scales threaten bats (e.g., habitat loss, disease). Temperate bat species are rarely examined at commensurate scales because of logistical and modeling constraints. Recent modeling approaches now allow for presence‐only datasets, like those often available for bats, to assist with the development of predictive distribution models. We describe the use of presence‐only data and rigorous predictive distribution models to examine habitat selection by bats across Colorado, USA. We applied hierarchical Bayesian models to bat locations from 1906–2018 to examine relationships of 13 species with landscape covariates. We considered differences in type of activity (foraging, roosting, hibernation), seasonality (summer vs. winter), and scale (1, 5, 10, and 15‐km buffers). These findings generated statewide probability of use models to guide management of bat species in response to threats (e.g., white‐nose syndrome [WNS]). Analysis of buffers suggest selection of land cover and environmental covariates occurs at different scales depending on the species and activity. Pinyon (Pinus spp.)‐juniper (Juniperus spp.) appeared as a positive association in the highest number of models, followed by montane woodland, supporting the importance of these forest types to bats in Colorado. Other covariates commonly associated with bats in Colorado include westerly longitudes, and negative associations with montane shrubland. Mechanical treatments within pinyon‐juniper and montane woodlands should be conducted with caution to avoid harming bat communities. We developed hibernation models for only 2 species, making apparent the lack of winter records for bat species in the state. We also provide a composite predictive surface of small‐bodied bats in Colorado that delineates where these species, vulnerable to WNS, converge. This tool provides managers with focal points to apply surveillance and response strategies for the impending arrival of the disease.
Modeled approaches to estimating blue carbon accumulation with mangrove restoration to support a blue carbon accounting method for Australia
Authors: Lovelock Catherine E. , Adame M. Fernanda , Butler Don W. , Kelleway Jeffrey J. , Dittmann Sabine , Fest Benedikt , King Karen J. , Macreadie Peter I. , Mitchell Katherine , Newnham Mark , Ola Anne , Owers Christopher J. , Welti Nina
Published: January 2022

The development and refinement of methods for estimating organic carbon accumulation in biomass and soils during mangrove restoration and rehabilitation can encourage uptake of restoration projects for their ecosystem services, including those of climate change mitigation, or blue carbon. To support the development of a blue carbon method for Australia under the Emission Reduction Fund scheme we investigated; (1) whether carbon accumulation data from natural mangroves could be used to estimate carbon accumulation during restoration; (2) modeling mangrove biomass accumulation; and (3) how modeled carbon accumulation could be achieved over heterogeneous sites. First, we assessed carbon accumulation in soil and biomass pools from the global literature, finding that estimating carbon accumulation using data from natural mangroves provided similar estimates as those for restored or rehabilitated mangroves. We assessed mangrove biomass accumulation from global chronosequence studies, which we used to develop regional models for estimating biomass accumulation with restoration in Australia using values from local natural mangroves. Estimating biomass carbon accumulation using site‐based means of stand biomass provided similar estimates as values estimated through use of regional means values stratified by elevation; and reduced overestimates of biomass carbon accumulation that were based on regional mean values. Modeling soil carbon accumulation over environmentally heterogeneous project sites can apply a similar approach, stratifying over variation in site elevation. Our analysis provides a strategy for modeling blue carbon pools for an Australian blue carbon method that accommodates regional differences and is based on data from natural mangroves.
Long‐term efficacy of lymphovenous anastomosis for the treatment of retroperitoneal lymphangiectasia: A case report and a review of literature
Authors: Lee Christina Dami , Kwiecien Grzegorz , Wenzinger Eric J. , Lee Irene , Cakmakoglu Cagri , Schwarz Graham S.
Published: January 2022

Lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) represents an alternative treatment for retroperitoneal lymphangiectasia. In contrast to sclerotherapy or excision, which may risk lymphatic obstruction and subsequent lymphedema, LVA preserves existing lymphatic architecture and transit. This report shows long‐term efficacy of LVA for functional decompression of a symptomatic pathologically dilatated retroperitoneal lymphatics. A 47‐year‐old female with retroperitoneal lymphangiectasia refractory to multiple percutaneous drainages and treatments with sclerosing agents underwent LVA with anastomosis of a dominant segment of retroperitoneal lymphangiectasia to the deep inferior epigastric vein. Postoperative serial magnetic resonance imaging with 3‐dimensional volume calculation over the 27 months follow‐up showed evidence of decompression of the lesion with patent bypass. There were no known immediate complications nor requirement of further interventions. The patient's subjective pain also decreased substantially. This report confirms long‐term efficacy of LVA for retroperitoneal lymphangiectasia as an alternative to sclerotherapy and surgical excision in the setting of previously failed treatments.
The analysis of some special solutions of Mackey–Glass equation with variable delays
Authors: Yazgan Ramazan
Published: January 2022

This study is about getting some conditions that guarantee the existence and uniqueness of the weighted pseudo almost periodic (WPAP) solutions of Mackey–Glass with time‐varying delays. Some adequate conditions have been obtained for the existence and uniqueness of the WPAP solutions of the Mackey–Glass, which we dealt with using some differential equation inequalities, the WPAP theory, and the Banach fixed‐point theorem. Besides, an example is given to demonstrate the accuracy of the conditions of our main results.
Qualitative analysis of two systems of nonlinear first‐order ordinary differential equations for biological systems
Authors: Wacker Benjamin , Schlüter Jan Christian
Published: January 2022

We consider two systems of nonlinear first‐order ordinary differential equations proposed to describe ‐levels in renal vascular smooth muscle cells and in liver cells. Initially, we present the models and its assumptions. We next investigate an approach to local solvability by Picard–Lindelöf 's Theorem. Further, we prove nonnegativity of the systems' possible solutions and we especially conclude global unique existence of the models' solutions by Gronwall‐type arguments and the concept of trapping regions. After finishing our theoretical part with some aspects of stability analysis, we provide evidence of our findings by some numerical experiments.
Partial practical stability for fractional‐order nonlinear systems
Authors: Ben Makhlouf Abdellatif
Published: January 2022

In this paper, stability analysis which ensures the convergence of a part of the solutions towards a ball of a class of fractional‐order nonlinear systems is described. Using the Lyapunov‐like functions, such nonlinear systems depending on a small parameter is studied, and such practical stability is ensured. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the validity of the proposed theoretical results as well as a real application to a class of cobweb models.
Capacity allocation in a service system with preferred service completion times
Authors: Çavdar Bahar , Işık Tuğçe
Published: January 2022

Retailers use different mechanisms to enable sales and delivery. A relatively new offering by companies is curbside pickup where customers purchase goods online, schedule a pickup time, and come to a pickup facility to collect their orders. To model this service structure, we consider a service system where each arriving job has a preferred service completion time. Unlike most service systems that operate on a first‐come‐first‐serve basis, the service provider makes a strategic decision for when to serve each job considering their requested times and the associated costs. For most of our results, we assume that all jobs must be served before or on their requested time period, and the jobs are handled in overtime when capacity is insufficient. Costs are incurred both for overtime and early service. We model this problem as a Markov decision process. For small systems, we show that optimal capacity allocation policies are of threshold type and provide additional structural results for special cases. Building on these results, we devise two capacity allocation heuristics that use a threshold structure for general systems. The computational results show that our heuristics find near‐optimal solutions, and dependably outperform the benchmark heuristics even in larger systems. We conclude that there is a considerable benefit in using our heuristics as opposed to a very greedy or a very prudent benchmark heuristic, especially when the early service costs are not prohibitively high and the service capacity is scarce or there are high volumes of customer arrivals. Our results also demonstrate that as the length of the customer order horizon increases, performance of all heuristics deteriorate but the benefits of using our threshold heuristic remain considerable. Finally, we provide guidelines to select an appropriate solution method considering the trade‐off between solution quality and computation time.
The use of very low‐calorie diets in subjects with obesity complicated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A scoping review
Authors: Herrington Grant J. , Peterson Joshua J. , Cheng Linhai , Allington Benjamin M. , Jensen Renato D. , Healy Heather S. , Correia Marcelo L. G.
Published: January 2022

This scoping review synthesizes the existing research on the use of very low‐calorie diets (VLCDs) in subjects with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and end‐stage liver disease (ESLD). 19 studies were included, of which 5 were clinical trials, 11 were cohort studies, 1 was a case‐control study, and 2 were case series totaling 968 subjects. About 17 studies were focused on patients with NAFLD while the two case series described in patients with ESLD on the transplant list or post‐liver transplant. Six studies included subjects managed with VLCDs prior bariatric surgery. Most studies were short term and demonstrated acute improvement of diverse liver biomarkers including liver function tests, indices of hepatosteatosis and reduction in liver size. Adherence rates in these studies were between 69% and 93%. Eight studies did not report any adverse events and four subjects were reported to have discontinued VLCD due to adverse effects in two different studies. Aggregated adverse events were mild. Treatments based on VLCD in subjects with NAFLD seem to be safe and tolerable but can result in mild adverse effects. The findings of this scoping review suggest that the use of VLCD in patients with obesity complicated with NAFLD and potentially in ESLD appear to be effective to induce weight loss and to acutely reduce hepatosteatosis.
POSS‐modified ammonium polyphosphate for improving flame retardant of epoxy resins
Authors: Feng Yanling , Wu Wei , Wang Zhengyi , Zhao Tianyu
Published: January 2022

An innovative phosphorus‐silicone flame retardant (KAPP‐OGPOSS) was prepared by grafting octa (propyl glycidyl ether) polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (OGPOSS) on ammonium polyphosphate (APP) through silane coupling agent (KH‐550). The chemical structure, morphology, flame retardancy, and mechanism of the obtained materials were comprehensively investigated. TG results demonstrated that EP with 15 wt% KAPP‐OGPOSS produced a char residue of 42.6% at 700°C, which is three times that of pure EP. The flame retardant tests showed that the limiting oxygen index value of EP/15 wt% KAPP‐OGPOSS was 30.6% (67.7% higher than that of neat EP) and its UL‐94 grade reached to V‐0 rating. Cone calorimeter testing indicated that the incorporation of 15 wt% KAPP‐OGPOSS to EP significantly reduced heat, smoke, CO, and CO2 release by 79%, 83%, 80%, and 82.5%, respectively. The modification of APP with OGPOSS was also beneficial for the improvement of the char yield and density of char. A flame retardant mechanism was revealed according to the investigation into the char residue. This modified approach provided an innovative yet practical means of enhancing the flame retardant properties of EP.
Preparation of polybenzimidazole‐based mixed matrix membranes containingmodified‐COK‐12 mesoporous silica and evaluation of the mixed‐gas separation performance
Authors: Castruita‐de León Griselda , Montes‐Luna Ángel de Jesús , Yeverino‐Miranda Claudia Y. , Alvarado‐Tenorio Germán , Meléndez‐Ortiz Héctor Iván , Pérez‐Camacho Odilia , García‐Cerda Luis Alfonso
Published: January 2022

This work reports the preparation and characterization of mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) based on mesoporous ordered COK‐12 silica modified with 3‐aminopropyltrimethoxysilane as filler, and a series of polybenzimidazoles with different main‐chain structure as polymer matrix. Polybenzimidazoles (PBIs) were prepared from 3,3′‐diaminobenzidine and several dicarboxylic acids with different chemical structure. The physicochemical studies, as well as thermal, structural, and morphological properties of MMMs were determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy. In addition, gas permeability properties of MMMs were tested by using a gas mixture of CO2/CH4at different upstream pressures. Results indicated that thermal stability of PBI above 400°C is kept even after the addition of the modified COK‐12 silica. Thed‐spacing of the PBI membranes determined by XRD was slightly increased with the addition of the modified COK‐12 silica particles. The permeability tests carried out at operating pressures of 50 and 150 psi showed that the addition of amino‐modified COK‐12 silica particles improved significantly the CO2permeability of MMMs with respect to the pristine PBI. At the same time, the selectivity values were also enhanced, which in some cases were found to be more than double compared to the respective pristine membrane. The contribution of the modified COK‐12 silica on the gas transport properties was more promising in MMMs comprising PBIs with less rigid backbone chemical structure.
Elucidation of the protein composition of mouse seminal vesicle fluid
Authors: Smyth Shannon P. , Nixon Brett , Anderson Amanda L. , Murray Heather C. , Martin Jacinta H. , MacDougall Lily A. , Robertson Sarah A. , Skerrett‐Byrne David A. , Schjenken John E.
Published: January 2022

The seminal vesicles are male accessory sex glands that contribute the major portion of the seminal plasma in which mammalian spermatozoa are bathed during ejaculation. In addition to conveying sperm through the ejaculatory duct, seminal vesicle secretions support sperm survival after ejaculation, and influence the female reproductive tract to promote receptivity to pregnancy. Analysis of seminal vesicle fluid (SVF) composition by proteomics has proven challenging, due to its highly biased protein signature with a small subset of dominant proteins and the difficulty of solubilizing this viscous fluid. As such, publicly available proteomic datasets identify only 85 SVF proteins in total. To address this limitation, we report a new preparative methodology involving sequential solubilization of mouse SVF in guanidine hydrochloride, acetone precipitation, and analysis by label‐free mass spectrometry. Using this strategy, we identified 126 SVF proteins, including 83 previously undetected in SVF. Members of the seminal vesicle secretory protein family were the most abundant, accounting for 79% of all peptide spectrum matches. Functional analysis identified inflammation and formation of the vaginal plug as the two most prominent biological processes. Other notable processes included modulation of sperm function and regulation of the female reproductive tract immune environment. Together, these findings provide a robust methodological framework for future SVF studies and identify novel proteins with potential to influence both male and female reproductive physiology.
Fusarium graminearumFgSdhC1 point mutation A78V confers resistance to the succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor pydiflumetofen
Authors: Shao Wenyong , Wang Jingrui , Wang Huiyuan , Wen Ziyue , Liu Chao , Zhang Yu , Zhao Youfu , Ma Zhonghua
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

Fusarium head blight (FHB) caused by Fusarium graminearum complex (Fg) is a devastating disease of cereal crops worldwide. The succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor, pydiflumetofen, was registered for management of FHB in China in 2019. Previously, laboratory‐induced pydiflumetofen‐resistant (PyR) mutants of Fg have been characterized. However, resistance situation of Fg to pydiflumetofen in the field remains largely unknown.

RESULTS

After screening 6468 isolates of Fg from various regions of China, six PyR isolates were identified. All six resistant isolates exhibited no fitness penalties based on mycelial growth, conidiation and virulence. However, no cross‐resistance between pydiflumetofen and azoxystrobin, tebuconazole or fludioxonil in Fg was detected. Genome‐sequencing revealed that all six PyR isolates contained a point mutation A78V in FgSdhC1 (FgSdhC1A78V). Genetic replacement assay further confirmed that FgSdhC1A78V conferred resistance of Fg to pydiflumetofen. Based on this, a mismatch allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction was developed for rapidly detecting the PyR isolates containing the FgSdhC1A78V mutation in Fg.

CONCLUSION

This is the first time that resistance of Fg to pydiflumetofen in the field was reported and point mutation FgSdhC1A78V conferring resistance of Fg to pydiflumetofen was confirmed. This study provides critical information for monitoring and managing pydiflumetofen resistance in Fg.
Endobronchial tuberculosis with unusual linear ulceration from tracheal to right upper lobar bronchi
Authors: Lin Hung‐Yi , Lee Jih‐Chin
Published: January 2022

Key message

The complications of endobronchial tuberculosis (TB) include bronchostenosis and fistula. We highly recommend that a TB test be included in the diagnosis of endobronchial lesions.
Centralized moving‐horizon estimation for a class of nonlinear dynamical complex networks under event‐triggered transmission scheme
Authors: Gao Ming , Wang Zidong , Sheng Li , Zou Lei , Liu Hongjian
Published: January 2022

This article is concerned with the problem of event‐triggered centralized moving‐horizon state estimation for a class of nonlinear dynamical complex networks. An event‐triggered scheme is employed to reduce unnecessary data transmissions between sensors and estimators, where the signal is transmitted only when certain condition is violated. By treating sector‐bounded nonlinearities as certain sector‐bounded uncertainties, the addressed centralized moving‐horizon estimation problem is transformed into a regularized robust least‐squares problem that can be effectively solved via existing convex optimization algorithms. Moreover, a sufficient condition is derived to guarantee the exponentially ultimate boundedness of the estimation error, and an upper bound of the estimation error is also presented. Finally, a numerical example is provided to demonstrate the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed estimator design method.
Response of acid forest soils to helicopter liming in the Monongahela National Forest, West Virginia
Authors: Fowler Jarrett , Skousen Jeff , Connolly Stephanie , Nottingham Adrienne , Scagline‐Mellor Steffany , Schuler Jamie , McDonald Louis
Published: January 2022

Typical of soils in humid climates, soils in the Monongahela National Forest (MNF) in West Virginia are acidic because of leaching of base cations, uptake of Ca and Mg by vegetation, and release of organic acids by organic matter (OM) decomposition. Soil acidity has increased because of anthropogenic acid deposition causing declines in forest health. In anticipation of a large‐scale liming project in the MNF, soils at 10 sites were sampled and analyzed in 2009. In 2018, lime was applied by helicopter to a total of 323 ha at a rate of 10 Mg ha−1. One year after liming, soils were resampled and analyzed in 2019 representing five limed and five unlimed areas using the same procedures. The objectives were to determine whether unlimed soils had changed between 2009 and 2019 and to evaluate changes in soils resulting from liming in 2019 for pH, acidity, and Al and Ca concentrations. In O and A horizons, unlimed soils had changed only slightly in the 10‐yr interval. Liming increased soil pH in O horizons from 4.6 to 5.9. Liming reduced acidity values by 73% and Al concentrations by 80% in O horizons. Liming increased Ca concentrations by at least three times in O and A horizons. Based on first‐year results, liming had a significant effect on soil properties of O and A horizons. Future sampling at 3 and 5 yr after liming will help to evaluate further changes in soils as a result of liming and under reduced acid deposition rates.
A Novel Electrically Conductive Perylene Diimide‐Based MOF‐74 Series Featuring Luminescence and Redox Activity
Authors: Scheurle Patricia I. , Biewald Alexander , Mähringer Andre , Hartschuh Achim , Medina Dana D. , Bein Thomas
Published: January 2022

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) featuring significant electrical conductivity constitute a growing class of materials, with intriguing possible applications as porous semiconductors or supercapacitors. If such features are combined with photoluminescence (PL), additional functionalities such as selective chemical sensing become accessible. Here, perylene diimide (PDI)‐based linear building blocks are incorporated into the MOF‐74 topology with the three metal ions Zn2+, Mg2+, and Ni2+, resulting in a new series of MOFs, namely PDI‐MOF‐74(M). PDI derivatives are dye molecules exhibiting remarkable optical properties, high electron mobilities, as well as interesting redox behavior. However, PDI‐based 3D MOFs are very rare and to date were only reported once. The frameworks of the PDI‐MOF‐74(M) series exhibit high crystallinity, electrical conductivity, and show well‐defined redox activity. In addition, the frameworks of the series feature PL in the orange and red spectral regions. Herein, the series of electroactive MOF‐74 structures as well as the group of 3D PDI‐based MOFs is expanded, hence opening up the development of novel MOFs with promising optoelectronic properties comprising PDI building blocks.