bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Head Inclination and Focal Length on Emotional State and Degree of Stress1
Authors: Suzuki Tomohiro , Maie Hidetoshi , Yamaguchi Shinji , Kawata Yujiro
Published: May 2021

Although previous studies have investigated the effect of head inclination on one's psychological state, such as their emotionality, there is still confusion related to the association between head inclination and focal length. Therefore, the current study examined the effects of both head inclination and focal length on an individual's emotional state and degree of stress, which were both controlled individually, and then clarified these independent and interactive effects. Twenty adults participated in all combinations of two focal‐length conditions (long or short) and two head‐inclination conditions (upward or downward) consecutively. The participants' saliva was then examined to determine α‐amylase levels and assess their physiological states; to assess emotional states after each condition, participants were required to complete several self‐report questionnaires. Two‐way analyses of variance were conducted, and the results showed that focal length exerted significant effects on their psychological states, but the effect of head inclination on the psychological state was only partially significant. The findings imply that focal length, rather than head inclination, primarily affected psychological states. It is noteworthy that previous studies' results regarding the effect of head inclination on emotional states may have mistakenly indicated a relationship because focal length coincides with head inclination.
Sum of variance for quantifying the variation of multiple sequential data for the crispness evaluation of chicken nugget
Authors: Nakamoto Hiroyuki , Yasuda Takeaki , Kobayashi Futoshi , Nagahata Yuya , Shimizu Rina , Kimura Ko
Published: May 2021

Crispness is one of the words most frequently used to describe the texture of fried or dried food in addition to being a key to the determination of freshness for many non‐fried foods. In this study, a new feature value called the sum of variance was assessed for its contribution to the estimation of crispness. Dynamic time warping and its averaging algorithms were employed to determine the sum of variance from a set of sequential force data measured using an instrument. The sum of variance is a feature value that expresses the variance of multiple sequential data. In an experiment, seven chicken nugget samples were prepared, and five panels evaluated their texture according to six Japanese word descriptors. An instrument experiment determined the six feature values, including the sum of variance from the measurement data, whereas multiple linear regression was applied to determine the relationship between the sensory values and feature values. For three of the six textures, the sum of variance reduced the error between the sensory values and their estimated values by up to 50%, confirming that this feature contributes to the textural estimation of food crispness.
Traits as determinants of species abundance in a grassland community
Authors: Lisner Aleš , Pärtel Meelis , Helm Aveliina , Prangel Elisabeth , Lepš Jan
Published: May 2021

Questions

The patterns in abundances of plant species and the processes which determine these patterns have been intensively studied. While recent investigations have recognized plant functional traits as important determinants of species abundances, intraspecific trait variability as a driver of species abundance patterns has largely been ignored. The objective of this study was to quantify the effect of intraspecific trait variability and trait dissimilarity from mean community characteristics (community‐weighted mean [CWM]) on the abundance of six widely distributed grassland species, while controlling for the possible influence of environmental conditions for three commonly used plant functional traits (Plant height — PH; specific leaf area — SLA; and leaf dry matter content — LDMC).

Location

Species‐rich alvar grasslands in western Estonia.

Methods

We quantified the discrete effects of environmental conditions, intraspecific trait variability, and trait difference from CWM on species abundance and assessed individual contributions of both traits and environmental characteristics on species abundance patterns.

Results

We found a strong and consistent relationship between species’ abundance and their intraspecific trait variability, where the biggest proportion of variation was explained by PH and SLA respectively. Local populations with larger PH and LDMC, and lower SLA were more abundant compared to populations having different values of these traits. Significant unimodal dependence of species abundance on CWM was detected for two species for which the optimum values of SLA and LDMC were close to the CWM values. For other species, the relationship between optimum trait values and CWM values was monotonous. The effect of measured environmental conditions (e.g., soil depth, above‐ground biomass, and soil fertility) and trait difference from CWM on species abundance patterns was minor when compared to the effect of intraspecific trait variability.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated a strong relationship between intraspecific trait variability and local performance of species within communities.
Patterns of blubber fat deposition and evaluation of body condition in growing southern right whale calves (Eubalaena australis)
Authors: Marón Carina F. , Lábaque María Carla , Beltramino Lucas , Di Martino Matías , Alzugaray Lucía , Ricciardi Marcos , Fernández Ajó Alejandro A. , Adler Frederick R. , Seger Jon , Sironi Mariano , Rowntree Victoria J. , Uhart Marcela M.
Published: May 2021

Marine mammals rely on blubber mainly for energy storage, buoyancy, and streamlining. Mysticetes are born with a relatively thin fat layer that grows rapidly during nursing. However, little information on blubber deposition patterns is available for baleen whale calves. We measured blubber thickness at nine body locations in 350 southern right whale (Eubalaena australis) newborn to 4–6‐month‐old calves that died on the Península Valdés (Argentina) calving ground from 2003 to 2019, to document changes in blubber thickness with growth. Additionally, we looked for differences in blubber thickness and lipid content of the outer/superficial blubber in calves that died in years with high (2003, 2005, 2007–2013) and low calf mortality (2004, 2006, 2014–2019) to test whether the former were suffering from gross nutritional stress. Blubber thickness increased at all body locations with calf length. Along the cranio‐caudal axis, blubber increased in the dorsal and ventral planes, but decreased laterally towards the peduncle, possibly to improve streamlining. We found no difference in blubber thickness and lipid content between high and low mortality years, suggesting that individuals were not undernourished. This is the first study to describe progressive increases in calf blubber during growth and contributes knowledge to right whale health and ontogeny.
Associations of perioperative characteristics with motor function in preschool children born with esophageal atresia
Authors: van Hoorn Camille E. , van der Cammen‐van Zijp Monique H. M. , Stolker Robert Jan , van Rosmalen Joost , Wijnen Rene M. H. , de Graaff Jurgen C.
Published: May 2021

Background

Children born with esophageal atresia experience long‐term neurodevelopmental deficits, with unknown origin.

Aims

To find associations between perioperative variables during primary esophageal atresia repair and motor function at age 5 years.

Methods

This ambidirectional cohort study included children born with esophageal atresia who consecutively had been operated on in the Erasmus MC‐Sophia Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, from January 2007 through June 2013. The perioperative data of this cohort were collected retrospectively; the motor function data prospectively.

Results

After exclusion of patients with syndromal congenital diseases (n = 8) and lost to follow‐up (n = 10), the data of 53 children were included. The mean (SD) total motor function impairment z‐score at 5 years of age was −0.66 (0.99), significantly below normal (p < .001). In multivariable linear regression analysis, number of postoperative days endotracheal intubation (B = −0.211, 95% CI: −0.389 to −0.033, p = .021) was negatively associated with motor outcome, whereas high blood pressure (B = 0.022, 95% CI 0.001 to 0.042, p = .038) was positively associated. Preoperative nasal oxygen supplementation versus room air (B = 0.706, 95% CI: 0.132 to 1.280, p = .016) was positively associated with motor outcome, which we cannot explain.

Conclusions

Motor function in 5‐year‐old esophageal atresia patients was impaired and negatively associated with the number of postoperative days of endotracheal intubation and positively associated with high blood pressure. Prospective studies with critical perioperative monitoring and monitoring during stay at the intensive care unit are recommended.
Use of bisphosphonates in a retrospective case series of children and adolescents with complex regional pain syndrome
Authors: Walfish Laurel , Sbrocchi Anne Marie , Rivera Gonzalo , Ricaurte Gracia Y Laura Nathaly , Mohamed Nada , González Cárdenas Víctor Hugo , Stoopler Michelle , Ingelmo Pablo
Published: May 2021

Background

There is increasing evidence for the use of bisphosphonates to treat Complex Regional Pain Syndrome in adults. However, there are scarce data for their use in children with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

Aim

This retrospective case series aimed to analyze the effects of intravenous bisphosphonate use in children and adolescents with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome enrolled in a multidimensional pain treatment program.

Methods

We analyzed the data of 16 patients (15 females and 1 male, mean age 14 ± 3 years) who received infusions of zoledronic acid (0.015 ± 0.0044mg/kg), pamidronate (0.72 ± 0.17mg/kg), or both depending on their initial response between October 2014 and December 2019. The primary endpoint of the study was the patient's global impression of change. Secondary outcomes included pain intensity, physical function, role function (school attendance), need for pain medications, and adverse effects.

Results

Nine of 16 patients reported meaningful improvements (global impressions of change of 84% or higher) at a median follow‐up time of 16 (8–21) months after their last infusion of bisphosphonates. There were also meaningful reductions in pain intensity and the need for pain medications. There was an increase in the proportion of patients with minimal or without physical disability, and almost all patients normalized their school activities. Thirteen patients (81%) reported adverse effects, mostly flu‐like symptoms, for a few days after the infusion.

Conclusion

The use of bisphosphonate infusions may represent an effective treatment option for children with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, not responding to multidisciplinary pain treatment programs.
Management of hyperpigmentation: Current treatments and emerging therapies
Authors: Nautiyal Avni , Wairkar Sarika
Published: May 2021

Hyperpigmentation of the skin refers to a dermatological condition which alters the color of the skin, making it discolored or darkened. The treatments for hyperpigmentation disorders often take very long to show results and have poor patient compliance. The first‐line treatment for hyperpigmentation involves topical formulations of conventional agents such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, and glycolic acid followed by oral formulations of therapeutic agents such as tranexamic acid, melatonin, and cysteamine hydrochloride. The second‐line approaches include chemical peels and laser therapy given under the observation of expert professionals. However, these therapies pose certain limitations and adverse effects such as erythema, skin peeling, and drying and require long treatment duration to show visible effects. These shortcomings of the conventional treatments provided scope for further research on newer alternatives for managing hyperpigmentation. Some of these therapies include novel formulations such as solid lipid nanocarriers, liposomes, phytochemicals, platelet‐rich plasma, microneedling. This review focuses on elaborating on several hyperpigmentation disorders and their mechanisms, the current, novel and emerging treatment options for management of hyperpigmentation.
Successful treatment of congenital systemic juvenile xanthogranulomatosis with pulmonary involvement
Authors: Ataseven Eda , Kizmazoglu Deniz , Oniz Haldun
Published: May 2021

Juvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG) is a common form of non‐Langerhans cell histiocytosis, which usually presents with spontaneously regressing skin lesions. Systemic involvement is rare and mostly seen in patients with multiple skin nodules. It can spontaneously regress, but sometimes systemic involvement can cause life‐threatening symptoms and can be fatal. Herein, we report a case of congenital systemic JXG with multiple skin nodules, soft tissue and pulmonary involvement. She was successfully treated with chemotherapy according to Langerhans cell histiocytosis treatment protocol IV of the Histiocyte Society (LCH‐IV).
Pollination by nectar‐foraging pompilid wasps: a new specialized pollination strategy for the Australian flora
Authors: Phillips R. D. , Bohman B. , Peakall R.
Published: May 2021

The Pompilidae is a cosmopolitan and diverse group of wasps, which commonly feed on nectar. However, pollination systems specialized on pompilids have not been documented in detail outside of southern Africa. Here, we studied Caladenia drummondii (Orchidaceae) where, based on floral traits and preliminary field observations, we predicted pollination by sexual deception of male pompilid wasps.

Detailed pollinator observations were undertaken using floral baiting experiments at sites spanning 375 km. Following evidence for nectar on some flowers of C. drummondii, the sugar content on the labellum was analysed by GC‐MS. Floral spectral reflectance was measured and compared with Caladenia using other pollination strategies.

Males of a single species of pompilid wasp (Calopompilus sp.) were the only visitors capable of pollinating C. drummondii. Attempts to feed from the surface of the labellum were frequent and were associated with removal and deposition of pollinia. GC‐MS analysis revealed larger quantities of sugar on the labellum than reported in other Caladenia species. While no sexual or courtship behaviour was observed, the zig‐zag and circling flight on approach to the flower is suggestive of odour‐based attraction. Floral spectral reflectance was similar to sexually deceptive Caladenia.

This study represents the first confirmation of a specialized pompilid pollination system outside of Africa. Although pollination occurs during nectar‐foraging, long‐distance sexual attraction cannot be ruled out as an explanation for the exclusive male visitation. The similarity in floral spectral reflectance to other Caladenia indicates colour may not impose a constraint on the evolution of pollination by pompilids.
Knowledge norms of belief and belief formation: When the time is ripe to actualize one's epistemic potential
Authors: Hofmann Frank
Published: May 2021

According to a currently popular view within the camp of knowledge lovers, knowledge is the norm of (full) belief. It says that no‐one should believe p without knowing that p, and thus governs the state of belief; it is a static norm. I will argue that we need an additional, structurally different knowledge norm in order to cover cases in which a subject is such that she ought to start forming a belief. So the standard view of how knowledge governs matters of belief must be supplemented by including a further, dynamic norm. This additional knowledge norm prescribes the initiation of knowledge acquistion on condition of the epistemic potential to know (plus some further qualifications). It thus expresses the plausible thought that we should actualize our epistemic potential (under certain conditions).
Sphalerite‐galena replacement in sodium chloride solution: A thermodynamic approach
Authors: Komuro Kosei
Published: May 2021

Considering the material balances of the constituents including solid phases, replacement reaction of the sphalerite‐galena pair in chloride solution is examined quantitatively under equilibrium conditions of 250°C, water saturation vapor pressure, and initial Cl concentration of 1 mol/L. NaCl+PbCl2 solution with solid sphalerite, dissolves and releases both total Zn and total S of 1.26 × 10−5 mol/L into the solution under without or lower PbCl2 concentration. If the PbCl2 concentration is higher than 1.32 × 10−6 mol/L, precipitation of galena as replacement occurs, suggesting that sphalerite has an ability to trap a lower concentration of Pb. If PbCl2 concentration of the solution is higher than 1.32 × 10−6 mol/L, the majority of Pb deposited as galena with using sulfur originated from solid sphalerite dissolved, and the amount of Zn from sphalerite equivalent to the amount of galena deposited releases into the solution. On the other hand, NaCl+ZnCl2 solution with solid galena under the same environmental conditions, dissolves and releases both total Pb and total S of 6.43 × 10−6 mol/L into the solution under without or lower ZnCl2 concentration. Over the ZnCl2 concentration of 6.40 × 10−5 mol/L in the solution, precipitation of sphalerite occurs, indicating that galena cannot trap a low concentration of Zn. Zinc would drain away from the hydrothermal depositional environment under the presence of only galena. These relationships are controlled mainly by the reaction of predominant metal chloride or metal hydroxide species in the solution. Sphalerite is a good scavenger for Pb, but galena is not for Zn.
The Social Amplification of Risk Framework: A Normative Perspective on Trust?
Authors: Bearth Angela , Siegrist Michael
Published: May 2021

Public trust is being lamented as the central victim of our new, digital information environment, a notion that is depicted in labeling our society as “posttruth” or “posttrust.” Within this article, we aim to call this deficit view of public trust into question and kindle a more positive outlook in future research. For this, we utilize the Social Amplification of Risk Framework to discuss trust as an inherent aspect of social interactions and to question the frameworks’ normative approach to public trust and risk perception. Utilizing a literature review of prior studies that investigated trust within the structure of SARF and a case study on the impacts of Fukushima on public trust in nuclear energy, we would like to argue that the current normative “trust deficit model” should be overcome and future risk research should increasingly focus on the opportunities of the digital informational environment for risk communication.
Differential, difference, and asymptotic relations for Pollaczek–Jacobi type orthogonal polynomials and their Hankel determinants
Authors: Min Chao , Chen Yang
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we study the orthogonal polynomials with respect to a singularly perturbed Pollaczek–Jacobi type weight
urn:x-wiley:00222526:media:sapm12392:sapm12392-math-0001By using the ladder operator approach, we establish the second‐order difference equations satisfied by the recurrence coefficient and the sub‐leading coefficient of the monic orthogonal polynomials, respectively. We show that the logarithmic derivative of can be expressed in terms of a particular Painlevé V transcendent. The large asymptotic expansions of and are obtained by using Dyson's Coulomb fluid method together with the related difference equations. Furthermore, we study the associated Hankel determinant and show that a quantity , allied to the logarithmic derivative of , can be expressed in terms of the ‐function of a particular Painlevé V. The second‐order differential and difference equations for are also obtained. In the end, we derive the large asymptotics of and from their relations with and .
The U‐shape of happiness in Scotland
Authors: Bell David N. F. , Blanchflower David G.
Published: May 2021

We examine well‐being in Scotland using micro data from the Scottish Health Survey and the UK Annual Population Surveys. We find evidence of a midlife nadir or zenith in Scotland in well‐being at around age 50 using a variety of measures of both happiness and unhappiness. We confirm that higher consumption of fruit and vegetables is associated with higher levels of happiness in Scotland. We compare this with evidence for England from the Health Survey of England. The decline in well‐being between youth and midlife is comparable in size to the loss of a spouse or of a job and around half of the fall in well‐being in the COVID‐19 lockdown. We also find a midlife peak in suicides in Scotland. Despite higher mortality and suicide rates in Scotland than in England, paradoxically we find that the Scots are happier than the English. Northern Ireland is the happiest of the four home countries. We also find evidence of U‐shapes in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in the mid to late forties.
Evolution and diversification of the Southern Chilean genus Ceroglossus (Coleoptera, Carabidae) during the Pleistocene glaciations
Authors: López‐López Alejandro , Acosta Víctor , Rataj Laurent , Galián José
Published: May 2021

The Quaternary glaciations affected the evolution and current distribution of taxa in southern Chile, including the emblematic and endemic genus Ceroglossus Solier. This genus of ground beetles has fascinated a great number of entomologists due to their conspicuous colour patterns, but despite this attention their taxonomy has remained controversial, with a large amount of taxa described based on unclear or variable morphological characters. In this work, we carry out a phylogenetic analysis of the 10 described species of Ceroglossus, based on mitochondrial and nuclear markers, and perform a species delimitation analysis using different algorithms, to clarify the backbone of their evolutionary tree and to lay the basis for a comprehensive and integrative taxonomic revision of this genus. Our results show that Ceroglossus is divided in five main lineages, composed of 13 putative phylogenetic species. The five lineages diverged before the Quaternary, while the divergence of the species within each lineage occurred during the glaciations and followed a parallel pattern among the different lineages. Additionally, we carry out an evolutionary interpretation of the revised available chromosomal data to shed light on the mechanisms that promoted their diversification.
Constancy and Constitution
Authors: Laasik Kristjan
Published: May 2021

I argue for the following claims: (1) A core Husserlian account of perceptual constancy needs to be given in terms of indicative future‐oriented conditionals but can be complemented by a counterfactual account; (2) thus conceived, constancy is a necessary aspect of content. I speak about a “core Husserlian” account so as to capture certain ideas that Michael Madary has presented as the core of Edmund Husserl's approach to perceptual constancy, viz., that “perception is partly constituted by the continuous interplay of intention and fulfilment” and that this “gives us a way to understand the relationship between different appearances of the same object” (See Madary, M. (2012) “Husserl on Perceptual Constancy.” European Journal of Philosophy 20(1): 145–165.). I take myself to be developing, and perhaps correcting, Madary's view as I discuss the role of the core Husserlian ideas, and counterfactuals, in accounting for shape and color constancy, respectively. I bridge constancy and fulfilment‐conditional content by appealing to the Husserlian notion of constitution, which captures the process in which objectivity and, correlatively, intentional experience, are built up in the experiential flow.
Measurement of Blood Pressure via a Skin-Mounted, Non-Invasive Pressure Sensor
Authors: Li Shupeng , Park Yoonseok , Luan Haiwen , Wang Heling , Kwon Kyeongha , Rogers John A. , Huang Yonggang
Published: May 2021

Traditional methods to measure blood pressure are intermittent and may fail to detect the critical blood pressure fluctuations. Continuous blood pressure monitoring offers important clinical value in predicting cardiovascular diseases. Invasive (i.e., artery cannulation) and noninvasive approaches (e.g., volume clamping, pressure sensor, ultrasound, and optical methods) have limitations that prevent their generalized use outside of controlled settings, and few account properly for changes in the properties of the arteries (e.g., after drug administration, aging). This article proposes a method that combines a skin-interfaced pressure sensor with a sensor of pulse wave velocity, to continuously, noninvasively, and accurately measure the blood pressure, in ways that eliminate drifts and other artifacts that can prevent accurate, longitudinal monitoring. A scaling law is established to show that, for a linearly proportional relationship between the blood pressure and sensor pressure, the coefficient of proportionality depends on the elastic moduli Eartery and Etissue of the artery and tissue, respectively, and the artery thickness hartery and radius Rartery via a single, dimensionless combination, Earteryhartery/(EtissueRartery), i.e., the normalized artery stiffness. This scheme determines the blood pressure in a manner that explicitly accounts for changes in the artery elastic modulus and thickness (e.g., due to the administration of drugs, aging).
A Glycolipid Glycosyltransferase with Broad Substrate Specificity from the Marine Bacterium “
Candidatus
Pelagibacter sp.” Strain HTCC7211
Authors: Wei Tao , Zhao Caimeng , Quareshy Mussa , Wu Nan , Huang Shen , Zhao Yuezhe , Yang Pengfei , Mao Duobin , Chen Yin
Published: May 2021

The bilayer formed by membrane lipids serves as the containment unit for living microbial cells. In the marine environment, it has been firmly established that phytoplankton and heterotrophic bacteria can substitute phospholipids with nonphosphorus sugar-containing glycoglycerolipids in response to phosphorus limitation.
Comparison of Antimicrobial-Resistant Escherichia coli Isolates from Urban Raccoons and Domestic Dogs
Authors: Worsley-Tonks Katherine E. L. , Gehrt Stanley D. , Miller Elizabeth A. , Singer Randall S. , Bender Jeff B. , Forester James D. , McKenzie Shane C. , Travis Dominic A. , Johnson Timothy J. , Craft Meggan E.
Published: May 2021

Antimicrobial-resistant bacteria (ARB) have been detected in numerous wildlife species across the globe, which may have important implications for human and animal health. Wildlife can be exposed to ARB via numerous pathways, including via spatial overlap with domestic animals.
Influence of the Alternative Sigma Factor RpoN on Global Gene Expression and Carbon Catabolism in Enterococcus faecalis V583
Authors: Keffeler Erica C. , Iyer Vijayalakshmi S. , Parthasarathy Srivatsan , Ramsey Matthew M. , Gorman Matthew J. , Barke Theresa L. , Varahan Sriram , Olson Sally , Gilmore Michael S. , Abdullahi Zakria H. , Hancock Emmaleigh N. , Hancock Lynn E.
Published: May 2021

Hospital-acquired infections account for 2 billion dollars annually in increased health care expenses and cause more than 100,000 deaths in the United States alone. Enterococci are the second leading cause of hospital-acquired infections.
Genotypic and Phenotypic Diversity among Human Isolates of Akkermansia muciniphila
Authors: Becken Bradford , Davey Lauren , Middleton Dustin R. , Mueller Katherine D. , Sharma Agastya , Holmes Zachary C. , Dallow Eric , Remick Brenna , Barton Gregory M. , David Lawrence A. , McCann Jessica R. , Armstrong Sarah C. , Malkus Per , Valdivia Raphael H.
Published: May 2021

The abundance of
Akkermansia muciniphila
in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is linked to multiple positive health outcomes. There are four known
A. muciniphila
phylogroups, yet the prevalence of these phylogroups and how they vary in their ability to influence human health is largely unknown.
A Generic, Scalable, and Rapid Time-Resolved Förster Resonance Energy Transfer-Based Assay for Antigen Detection—SARS-CoV-2 as a Proof of Concept
Authors: Rusanen Juuso , Kareinen Lauri , Szirovicza Leonora , Uğurlu Hasan , Levanov Lev , Jääskeläinen Anu , Ahava Maarit , Kurkela Satu , Saksela Kalle , Hedman Klaus , Vapalahti Olli , Hepojoki Jussi
Published: May 2021

PCR is currently the gold standard for the diagnosis of many acute infections. While PCR and its variants are highly sensitive and specific, the time from sampling to results is measured in hours at best.
Toward a Phage Cocktail for Tuberculosis: Susceptibility and Tuberculocidal Action of Mycobacteriophages against Diverse Mycobacterium tuberculosis Strains
Authors: Guerrero-Bustamante Carlos A. , Dedrick Rebekah M. , Garlena Rebecca A. , Russell Daniel A. , Hatfull Graham F.
Published: May 2021

Tuberculosis kills 1.5 million people each year, and resistance to commonly used antibiotics contributes to treatment failures. The therapeutic potential of bacteriophages against
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
offers prospects for shortening antibiotic regimens, provides new tools for treating multiple drug-resistant (MDR)-TB and extensively drug-resistant (XDR)-TB infections, and protects newly developed antibiotics against rapidly emerging resistance to them.
Polymicrobial Interactions Operative during Pathogen Transmission
Authors: Rowe Hannah M. , Rosch Jason W.
Published: May 2021

Transmission of pathogens from one host to another is an essential event in pathogenesis. Transmission is driven by factors intrinsic to the host and to the pathogen.
Early-Life Immune System Maturation in Chickens Using a Synthetic Community of Cultured Gut Bacteria
Authors: Zenner Christian , Hitch Thomas C. A. , Riedel Thomas , Wortmann Esther , Tiede Stefan , Buhl Eva M. , Abt Birte , Neuhaus Klaus , Velge Philippe , Overmann Jörg , Kaspers Bernd , Clavel Thomas
Published: May 2021

The immune system plays a crucial role in sustaining animal health. Its development is markedly influenced by early microbial colonization of the gastrointestinal tract.
Supplemental Material: Jurassic–Cenozoic tectonics of the Pequop Mountains, NE Nevada, in the North American Cordillera hinterland
Authors: Zuza A.V. , al. et
Published: May 2021

Supplemental Text: Supplemental figures (i.e., structural data and topographic profile across Pleistocene fault) and argon domain diffusion (MDD) modeling methods and data table. Tables S1 and S2: Argon data. Table S3: Apatite fission-track (AFT) data. Table S4: Zircon data.
Help-seeking behaviours related to mental health symptoms in professional football
Authors: Confectioner Kaizeen , Currie Alan , Gabana Nicolle , van Gerven Nienke , Kerkhoffs Gino M M J , Gouttebarge Vincent
Published: May 2021

Objectives

The primary objective was to examine the attitudes of professional footballers towards help-seeking behaviours related to mental health symptoms and the impact of a mental health awareness video on these help-seeking behaviours. The secondary objective was to evaluate whether the mental health awareness video was feasible in professional football.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study based on a one-group pretest post-test was conducted using a questionnaire. Attitude, help-seeking behaviours and confidence were measured with validated questionnaires, including the Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help-Short Form (ATSPPH-SF) and General Help-Seeking Questionnaire (GHSQ).

Results

Sixty-five professional footballers (63% men; 37% women) were enrolled in the study. The mean ATSPPH-SF score was 18.1 at pretest and 19.4 at post-test (p=0.00). The mean GHSQ score was 47.6 at pretest and 48.9 at post-test (p=0.00). The level of confidence in helping someone experiencing mental health symptoms was 11.1 at pretest and 11.7 at post-test (p=0.00). All participants rated the mental health awareness video as relevant; 88% mentioned that it added value to raise awareness about mental health symptoms and disorders in professional football. Eighty-three per cent rated the design positively, 69% were positive about the duration of the video and 88% of participants reported an increase in their knowledge and understanding of mental health symptoms and disorders in professional football.

Conclusion

The mental health awareness video led to a better attitude of professional footballers towards mental health. We recommend the mental health awareness video be implemented in professional football to disseminate essential information related to mental health symptoms in professional football.
Covert Communication Achieved by a Full-Duplex Multi-Antenna Receiver in Wireless Networks
Authors: Yang Ling , Yang Weiwei , Tu Jia , Lu Xingbo , Tang Liang , He Zhengyun
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we consider a covert communication system with a multi-antenna full-duplex (FD) receiver to enhance covert performance. More precisely, the receiver Bob (i.e., multiple antennas) selects the best antenna to receive the covert message, and then it sends artificial noise (AN) to the warden Willie causing uncertainty by utilizing an antenna among the remaining antennas. In order to take full advantage of multi-antenna technology, we consider two cases: (1) Willie does not know which antenna Bob chooses to send AN, and Willie knows only part of the channel information. (2) Willie knows which antenna Bob chooses to send AN, and Willie knows all the channel information. Based on the analysis of the optimal detection threshold, we derive the minimum detection error probability of the two cases. Furthermore, given the pre-determined convert constraints, the closed-form expression of the maximum effective convert rate is derived. When the power of AN sent by Bob is greater than that of covert message sent by the sender Alice, surprised research results are shown: (1) the detection error rate of case 1 is higher than that of case 2. (2) the effective covert rate of case 1 is always lower than that of case 2. The simulation results show that the proposed scheme is more conducive to sending covert messages for Alice; in addition, the numerical results imply that the maximum effective covert rate of the system using the multi-antenna FD receiver is significantly higher than that of the traditional dual-antenna FD receiver system.
Design of High Gain Folded Cascode OTA-Based Transconductance–Capacitance Loop Filter for PLL Applications
Authors: Gupta Priti , Jana Sanjay Kumar
Published: May 2021

This paper deals with the designing of low-power transconductance–capacitance-based loop filter. The folded cascode-based operational transconductance amplifier (OTA) is designed in this paper with the help of quasi-floating bulk MOSFET that achieved the DC gain of 88.61[Formula: see text]dB, unity gain frequency of 97.86[Formula: see text]MHz and power consumption of 430.62[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]W. The proposed OTA is compared with the exiting OTA structure which showed 19.50% increase in DC gain and 15.11% reduction in power consumption. Further, the proposed OTA is used for the designing of transconductance–capacitance-based loop filter that has been operated at [Formula: see text]3[Formula: see text]dB cut-off frequency of 30.12[Formula: see text]MHz with the power consumption of 860.90[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]W at the supply voltage of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]V. The transistor-level simulation has been done in 0.18[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m CMOS process.
Morphological types in the Deccan Volcanic Province, India: implications for emplacement dynamics of continental flood basalts
Authors: Kale Vivek S. , Dole Gauri , Patil Pillai Shilpa , Chatterjee Poushali , Bodas Makarand
Published: May 2021

We review and compare morphologies from continental basaltic lavas, using examples from the Deccan Volcanic Province to compile their internal configurations and mutual associations and compare them. The mechanism of endogenous transfer of lava within an insulating (rapidly developed) crust provides an efficient mode of dispersal of the molten lava in flood basalts. The growth of the lava flow can be achieved by a single extrusion or by multiple pulses of endogenous emplacement that enable the lava to efficiently spread over large areas and thicken. We show that the morphology of a lobe manifests the response of the molten lava to several parameters (including volumetric rate of emplacement, substrate topography, viscosity, vapour loss, etc.) that govern the dynamics and cooling history of basaltic lava after it starts to spread on the surface. The lateral transition from one morphology to another within lobes of a lava flow is a testimony to the interactive response of the lava dynamics and rheology to variation in the local systems in which they were emplaced. The morphologies do not evolve as rigid partitioned categories from ‘áā and pāhoehoe lava types' but as parametric progression of interactive variations in the spreading and cooling lava. A hierarchical recognition of lobes, flows and flow fields and mapping of the morphology (and their lateral transition or continuity) combined with the stacking patterns provides the volcanological framework for a sound stratigraphic mapping of flood basalts. Such an architectural documentation of flood basalt provinces will lead to robust models of their eruptive histories.
A Sandwich-Type Immunosensor Based on Pd NPs@DSHSs-Cu2O and Au NPs Functionalized Graphene Oxide Doped Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) Nanorod for Quantitative Detection NSE
Authors: Tang Chunyuan , Wang Ping , Wang Shujun , Zhou Kaiwei , Yang Qingshan , Ren Jie , Li Yueyun , Liu Qing , Li Yueyuan , Xue Li
Published: May 2021

Changes in the concentration of neuron-specific enolase (NSE) can be used as an indicator for many diseases. Electrochemical immunosensor is a reliable tool for early diagnosis, but achieving ultrasensitive analysis is a pressing problem. In this work, graphene oxide doped poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT/GO) spindle-like nanorods prepared by liquid/liquid interface polymerization method have good stability and high conductivity. The sulfur atoms on the thiophene ring combine with gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) to further improve the efficiency of interface electron transfer. Besides, the exposed carboxyl groups and Au NPs on the surface of PEDOT/GO can effectively couple with the capture antibody (Ab1). Double-shelled Cu2O hollow spheres (Pd NPs@DSHSs-Cu2O) modified with palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs) are used as signal markers. The abundant catalytic active sites and detection antibody (Ab2) binding sites rely on the double-shell hollow spheres to increase the specific surface area. The combined effect of Cu2O and Pd NPs can efficiently catalyze H2O2 to realize the amplification of electrical signals. The detection range of the immunosensor prepared by the above-mentioned sensing strategy was 50.0 fg ml−1 ∼ 100.0 ng ml−1, and the detection limit was 7.54 fg ml−1, which provides potential reference value for early clinical diagnosis.
Investigation of Membrane Chemical Degradation as a Function of Catalyst Platinum Loading
Authors: Spears André J. , Rockward Tommy , Mukundan Rangachary , Garzon Fernando
Published: May 2021

Membrane chemical degradation is one of many factors that can impact fuel cell durability. The fuel cell’s lifetime heavily depends on the membrane and its ability to maintain chemical and mechanical integrity. Previous studies indicate that chemical degradation is due to the formation of hydroxyl radicals that attack the polymer structure resulting in membrane thinning, pinhole formation, and the release of fluoride and sulfate ions. Membrane durability was investigated using ultra-low Pt electrode loadings (≤ 0.1 mgPt cm−2). Accelerated stress testing (US-DOE protocols) demonstrated that the degradation rate was found to increase with higher Pt loadings. This is most likely due to more heterogeneous sites for radical formation due to hydrogen crossover to the cathode. We also explored membrane degradation rates while varying catalyst layer thickness, ionomer to carbon ratio, and types of carbon support. All of the aforementioned variables impact the membrane degradation rates.
Synthesis of Highly Dispersed CuPd@UiO-66-NH2 for Nonenzymatic Hydrazine Sensing
Authors: Xu Mengmeng , Dong Yuhua , Zheng Jianbin
Published: May 2021

In this article, a core–shell CuPd@UiO-66-NH2 composite material was synthesized by a double-solvent reduction method, and an N2H4 electrochemical sensor based on CuPd@UiO-66-NH2 was constructed. The relationship between the morphology, type, composition, size of the sensor interface composite material and its electrocatalytic performance and sensor response performance was studied, and a new method for detecting N2H4 was established. The surface properties and composition of the materials were studied by transmission electron microscope(TEM),energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy(EDX) and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy(XRD). The results showed that the synthesized CuPd@UiO-66-NH2 has a regular 3D structure, particle dispersion, and uniform particle size, the particle size is about 90 nm. Electrochemical performance studies showed the sensor is made into detecting N2H4 in a linear range of 0.25 μM ∼ 1.39 mM, with a sensitivity of 386.7 μA·mM−1·cm−2, and a detection limit of 0.08 μM(S/N = 3). Compared with other electrochemical sensors based on metal nanoparticles to detect N2H4, the new sensor exhibited a wider linear range; and its sensitivity was 3 times of that obtained by the Cu-BTC/OMC/GCE. So, the sensor can be used as a potential sensing material to detect hydrazine.
In Situ Transmission Electron Microscopy of High-Temperature Inconel-625 Corrosion by Molten Chloride Salts
Authors: Pragnya Prachi , Gall Daniel , Hull Robert
Published: May 2021

This paper describes an approach to monitor high temperature molten chloride (MgCl2-NaCl-KCl) salt corrosion of Inconel-625 alloy in real time at high spatial resolution. The approach is based on a micro-environmental-cell assembly integrated into a transmission-electron-microscope goniometer to examine in situ the salt-alloy interface during corrosion, employing real time electron diffraction and imaging. It establishes procedures to minimize incorporation of H2O or O2 from atmosphere in the chloride salts during sample fabrication and corrosion, which is critical to understanding the fundamental corrosion mechanisms. A clustering algorithm and a 2D Gaussian fit function are used to determine diffraction spot intensities in in situ diffraction patterns, to quantify alloy corrosion. This facilitates quantitative observation of the evolution of individual grains, in contrast to conventional macroscopic corrosion rate quantification. The isothermal corrosion rate of Inconel-625 in an anhydrous, unoxidized salt-stack is 220 ± 30 μm year-1 at 700 °C and 350 ± 20 μm year-1 at 800 °C. However, the corrosion rate at 700 °C increases five-fold to 1000 ± 170 μm year-1 when the salt stack is air-exposed, indicating the dominant effects of hydrated or oxidized impurities on corrosion acceleration. Real time imaging of the microstructure evolution suggests that corrosion is initiated at grain boundaries.
High Performance Non-Enzymatic Electrochemical Lactate Sensor Based on ZnAl Layered Double Hydroxide Nanosheets Supported Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Djebbi Mohamed Amine , Boubakri Saber , Braiek Mohamed , Jaffrezic-Renault Nicole , Namour Philippe , Ben Haj Amara Abdesslem
Published: May 2021

Lactate monitoring in body being of utmost importance in clinical diagnostics. It is a vital biomarker in the anaerobic metabolic pathway of humans, its elevation may lead to respiratory or hepatic failure and many more diseases and physiological fatigue. In this research, we propose a low-cost and high performance non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor aimed at the detection of lactate. The sensor was fabricated by assembling ZnAl layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanosheets along with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) onto boron doped diamond electrodes (BDD). The as-prepared materials were characterized by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV–visible spectrophotometry (UV–vis), transmission (TEM) and scanning (SEM) electron microscopy, while the modified electrode was characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The electrochemical measurements for lactate binding were performed using square wave voltammetry (SWV), revealed high sensitivity of 13.9μA/μM/cm2, broad detection range of 0.1–30μM and low detection limit up to 0.1μM. Besides, the proposed lactate sensor possessed excellent long-term stability, good reproducibility, repeatability and selectivity. The response currents of detection in biological samples were also close to the standard solutions. Therefore the developed sensor is promising to be used in clinical practice.
Review—Research Progress in Detection Technology of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Xue Zhaohui , Zheng Xu , Yu Wancong , Li Ang , Li Shihao , Wang Yumeng , Kou Xiaohong
Published: May 2021

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is one of the most toxic environmental pollutants, which are very harmful to human body. It is crucial to find convenient and effective detection methods of PAHs. A variety of detection methods have been reported so far. This review summarized the PAHs detection methods. Traditional detection methods and electrochemical method are mainly introduced. Among them, based on the principle of fluorescence radiation, traditional methods of high detection precise rely on expensive equipment thus are not suitable for rapid detection. The electrochemical detection methods exhibit the features of high sensitivity, rapidity and convenience, and breaks the limitations of traditional methods, providing a broad application prospect for PAHs detection. In this review, the sample pretreatment and electrode pretreatment are discussed. Popular electrode modifying materials that include carbon nanoparticles, molecularly imprinted polymers, metal organic framework and other materials are evaluated. At last, the existing problem and potentially developing prospect of electrode modifiers is presented to promote the study of PAHs detection.
TiO2 Nanotube-Based Sensor for the Detection of Cyanide in Water
Authors: Tembo P. M. , Dhabarde N. , Subramanian V.
Published: May 2021

Cyanide is an acutely toxic compound capable of spreading to ground and surface waters more easily than other industrial contaminants. Real-time monitoring of cyanide concentrations calls for a robust and quick method for cyanide detection in water. This work focuses on the application of anodized titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanotubes as a substrate, with suitable and relatively inexpensive additives, for the sensitive and selective electrochemical detection of cyanide in water. The TiO2 nanotubes were modified by the addition of iron (Fe) and sulfur (S) as sensing elements. Characterization of the prepared sensing platform was performed using X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy. Current-time measurements indicated that i) increasing cyanide concentration can perturb the current proportionally, ii) the differential in the current can be used as a calibration for quantitative detection of cyanide, and iii) the sensor is highly selective even in the presence of interfering species. A cyanide detection limit of 0.49 μM and a sensitivity of −13.8 mAcm−2
μM−1 were established. The sensor response indicated that an Fe-S-TiO2 nanotube sensing electrode could effectively and repeatedly be used over a period of several months for the sensing of cyanide concentrations lower than the recommended WHO and USEPA limits in water.