bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urban agglomeration, housing price, and space–time spillover effect—Empirical evidences based on data from hundreds of cities in China
Authors: Lan Feng , Jiao Chengcai , Deng Guoying , Da Huili
Published: January 2021

Taking 100 cities in China, this paper adopts gravity model, time–space model, and generalized impulse response function to probe into the spillover effect of housing price against the backdrop of spatial agglomeration. This study found that the degree of spillover effect between cities is correlated to economic foundations and grade of cities in general. When economic foundations and grade of a city are basically the same, the spillover effect presents a law of weakening with the increase of distance. In urban agglomerations with higher degree of networked structure, the features are the all‐around spillover effect of central city.
Characteristic facial features and cortical blindness distinguish the DOCK7‐related epileptic encephalopathy
Authors: Haberlandt Edda , Valovka Taras , Janjic Tanja , Müller Thomas , Blatsios Georgios , Karall Daniela , Janecke Andreas R.
Published: January 2021

Background

The epileptic encephalopathies display extensive locus and allelic heterogeneity. Biallelic truncating DOCK7 variants were recently reported in five children with early‐onset epilepsy, intellectual disability, and cortical blindness, indicating that DOCK7 deficiency causes a specific type of epileptic encephalopathy.

Methods

We identified 23‐ and 27‐year‐old siblings with the clinical pattern reported for DOCK7 deficiency, and conducted genome‐wide linkage analysis and WES. The consequences of a DOCK7 variant were analyzed on the transcript and protein level in patients’ fibroblasts.

Results

We identified a novel homozygous DOCK7 frameshift variant, an intragenic tandem duplication of 124‐kb, previously missed by CGH array, in adult patients. Patients display atrophy in the occipital lobe and pontine hypoplasia with marked pontobulbar sulcus, and focal atrophy of occasional cerebellar folia is a novel finding. Recognizable dysmorphic features include normo‐brachycephaly, narrow forehead, low anterior and posterior hairlines, prominent ears, full cheeks, and long eyelashes. Our patients function on the level of 4‐year‐old children, never showed signs of regression, and seizures are largely controlled with multi‐pharmacotherapy. Studies of patients’ fibroblasts showed nonsense‐mediated RNA decay and lack of DOCK7 protein.

Conclusion

DOCK7 deficiency causes a definable clinical entity, a recognizable type of epileptic encephalopathy.
Nonhomogenous bivariate fragmentation process: Asymptotic distribution via contraction method
Authors: Aguech Rafik , Ilji Samia
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we investigate the size of a bidimensional fragmentation process. A rectangle of dimensions x and y is considered; it is split into four subrectangles with some probability that depends on x and y; we iterate until the stop of the process. The total number of the all the obtained rectangles at the end of the process satisfies some equality in distribution which is resolved by the contraction method and by some tools on integral equations.
Shifted Vieta‐Fibonacci polynomials for the fractal‐fractional fifth‐order KdV equation
Authors: Heydari M. H. , Avazzadeh Z. , Atangana A.
Published: January 2021

In this article, the fractal‐fractional (FF) version of the fifth‐order KdV equation is introduced. The shifted Vieta‐Fibonacci (VF) polynomials are generated and adopted to establish a simple and accurate numerical method for solving this equation. To this end, the operational matrices of ordinary and FF derivatives of these polynomials are obtained in explicit forms. These matrices together with the series expansion of the shifted VF polynomials are mutually utilized to convert the original equation into a system of algebraic equations which is much easier. Some numerical examples are examined to show the power and accuracy of the method.
Pediatric Nephrotic Syndrome: Pharmacologic and Nutrition Management
Authors: Hampson Kyle J. , Gay Morgan L. , Band Molly E.
Published: January 2021

Nephrotic syndrome is a common kidney disease during childhood that is characterized by alterations in glomerular filtration and leads to protein, fluid, and nutrient loss in the urine. Most patients experience peripheral, gravity‐dependent edema; however, serious cases exhibit anasarca and ascites. Many long‐term complications of the disease exist due to the underlying pathology and the therapies used for treatment, including metabolic bone disease, micronutrient deficiencies, and hyperlipidemia. Pharmacologic and nutrition interventions are key to appropriate management. Fluid and sodium restriction in combination with corticosteroids, albumin, and diuretics are used to manage edema. Steroid‐sparing therapies like alkylating agents and calcineurin inhibitors and dietary modification to eliminate dairy and gluten may be warranted in patients with frequent relapses or steroid‐refractory disease. Nutrition clinicians should familiarize themselves with the nuances of treating this disease to optimize care for children with nephrotic syndrome.
Comparison between the new exact and numerical solutions of the Mikhailov–Novikov–Wang equation
Authors: Bekir Ahmet , Shehata Maha S. M. , Zahran Emad H. M.
Published: January 2021

In this article, we employ the Mikhailov–Novikov–Wang integrable equation (MNWIE) appearing by means of the perturbatives symmetry approach to the rating of integrable non‐evolutionary PDEs. The new exact soliton solutions of this equation which were not achieved before have been realized for the first time in the framework of the (G′/G)‐expansion method. In the same vein and parallel, the corresponding numerical solutions of this equation have been established using the variational iteration method (VIM).
Emergency Department Visits for Emesis Following Chemotherapy: Guideline Nonadherence, OP-35, and a Path Back to the Future
Authors: Neugut Alfred I. , Bates Susan E.
Published: January 2021

Better adherence to supportive care guidelines is needed, especially for common challenges such as chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. This commentary remarks on recently published data on adherence to guidelines, considering treatment options and new strategies to reduce chemotherapy complications.
К‐carrageenan/Na‐alginate wound dressing with sustainable drug delivery properties
Authors: Fahmy Hesham M. , Aly Amal A. , Sayed Shymaa M. , Abou‐Okeil Ashraf
Published: January 2021

Despite К‐carrageenan (КC) merits as a biopolymer convenient for versatile medical applications, it exhibits limitations in processability and reactivity. To overcome such limitations, КC, in this study, was blended with Na‐alginate (SA) in different weight ratios and cross‐linked with potassium ions. The swelling and gel fraction properties demonstrate that the cross‐linked КC/SA matrix of a ratio of 66.7% is suitable to be applied as a topical wound dressing. Characterization of the prepared КC/SA/K+ gel film was performed using scanning electron microscope as well as FTIR. The in vitro release of chloramphenicol as a drug model from the nominated loaded film at pH 4.1 reached a constant value after about 3 hours. To enhance the antibacterial properties of the КC/SA/K+ film, silver nanoparticles as bioactive additive were loaded in combination with chloramphenicol, and the antibacterial properties of the loaded film were evaluated, and showed high antibacterial properties against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria.
Pretransplant myeloid and immune suppression, reduced toxicity conditioning with posttransplant cyclophosphamide: Initial outcomes of novel approach for matched unrelated donor hematopoietic stem cell transplant for hemoglobinopathies
Authors: Kharya Gaurav , Bakane Atish N. , Rauthan Archana M.
Published: January 2021

Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) is currently the only curative option for thalassemia major (TM) and sickle cell disease (SCD). We report our experience of using pretransplant immune suppression (PTIS), augmented Johns Hopkins conditioning, and posttransplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) as graft‐versus‐host disease (GvHD) prophylaxis for matched unrelated donor (MUD) transplant in TM/SCD. At a median follow‐up of 307.5 days (range 251‐395), all patients (three TM, one SCD) are alive and disease free. MUD HSCT with PTIS, augmented Johns Hopkins conditioning, and PTCy as GvHD prophylaxis is a promising way of treating patients with hemoglobinopathies with low regimen‐related toxicity (RRT), no risk of graft failure (GF) and minimal GvHD rates.
Cancer incidence and survival trends among infants in the United States from 1975 to 2014
Authors: Wang Haijun , Mejia Maria Carmenza , Gonzalez Sandra J. , Zoorob Roger J. , Chai Weiwen , Du Xianglin L.
Published: January 2021

Background

Cancer among infants (<1 year old) has unique epidemiologic, clinical, and genetic characteristics compared with cancer in older children. Nonetheless, data on secular trends in infant cancer incidence and survival in the United States is sparse.

Methods

Population‐based data from nine areas of the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) were used to estimate the incidence, average annual percentage change (APC) for trends, and survival of malignant neoplasm among infants from 1975 to 2014. Data were stratified by gender, race, registry, and cancer type.

Results

There were 3437 new infant cancer cases with an overall incidence of 23.6/100 000. Neuroblastoma was the most common infant malignancy (6.5/100 000), followed by leukemia (3.8/100 000), and brain and central nervous system tumors (3.3/100 000). The incidence rate increased significantly from 1975 to 2014 (APC 0.68; 95% CI 0.30‐1.06; P < .05). Variations in overall incidence rates were uneven across SEER registry geographic areas, with the lowest rates among both males and females in New Mexico. Relative to other racial distribution, infant cancer rates were highest among Whites. The relative survival rates improved over time for all tumors except for renal, sarcomas, and germ cells and were not significantly different by gender or race.

Conclusions

Cancer incidence among infants increased over time largely driven by leukemia, germ cell, and sarcoma mainly among male infants. The overall survival for infant cancer has improved over the past 40 years, especially since 1990 for hepatic tumors, lymphoma, and leukemia. Further research is needed to explore the potential impacts of genetic, environmental, and perinatal factors for possible explanations for these increased cancer incidence trends.
Improved mechanical performances of short aramid fiber‐reinforced polypropylene composites by Ti3C2 Mxene nanosheets
Authors: Tang Bolin , Yang Yaru , Shi Yicheng , Nie Huijie , Xia Hongqin , Shen Xiaojun
Published: January 2021

Fiber‐reinforced polypropylene (PP) composites are widely used for structural bearing because of their excellent mechanical property. So, it is necessary to improve the mechanical property of fiber‐reinforced PP composites. In this present, two‐dimensional Ti3C2 Mxene nanosheets were bound to short aramid fiber (SAF), forming Ti3C2 nanosheets‐modified SAF (Ti3C2/SAF), aiming to improve PP mechanical property. The Ti3C2 nanosheets were obtained after hydrofluoric acid etching and ultrasonically delamination procedure, followed by chemically bound to the surface of H3PO4 solution‐treated SAF to form Ti3C2/SAF. The Ti3C2/SAF‐reinforced PP (Ti3C2/SAF/PP) composites were prepared by a melt blending method. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the Ti3C2/SAF modified with different concentration of Ti3C2 nanosheets solution presented the distinct morphologies, with the 0.3 mg/ml Ti3C2/SAF formed a relatively uniform Ti3C2 nanosheets coating on the SAF surface. Test results of mechanical performance indicated that the tensile and impact strength of Ti3C2/SAF/PP composites were significantly improved. Especially, the maximum tensile and impact strength of 0.3 Ti3C2/SAF/PP composite at 5 wt% reached to 37.8 MPa and 14.0 kJ/m2, which was increased by 11.5% (or 28.1%) in tensile strength and 12.9% (or 38.6%) in impact strength, compared with that of SAF/PP composite (or PP matrix). This can be attributed that Ti3C2 nanosheets binding to SAF improved the interfacial bonding strength between SAF and PP. This work provides a promising strategy for improving the mechanical properties of fiber‐reinforced PP composites.
Study on functional sites in human multidrug resistance protein 1 (hMRP1)
Authors: He Junmei , Han Zhongjie , Farooq Qurat ul Ain , Li Chunhua
Published: January 2021

Human multidrug resistance protein 1 (hMRP1) is an important member of the ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporter superfamily. It can extrude a variety of anticancer drugs and physiological organic anions across the plasma membrane, which is activated by substrate binding, and is accompanied by large‐scale cooperative movements between different domains. Currently, it remains unclear completely about how the specific interactions between hMRP1 and its substrate are and which critical residues are responsible for allosteric signal transduction. To the end, we first construct an inward‐facing state of hMRP1 using homology modeling method, and then dock substrate proinflammatory agent leukotriene C4 (LTC4) to hMRP1 pocket. The result manifests LTC4 interacts with two parts of hMRP1 pocket, namely the positively charged pocket (P pocket) and hydrophobic pocket (H pocket), similar to its binding mode with bMRP1 (bovine MRP1). Additionally, we use the Gaussian network model (GNM)‐based thermodynamic method proposed by us to identify the key residues whose perturbations markedly alter their binding free energy. Here the conventional GNM is improved with covalent/non‐covalent interactions and secondary structure information considered (denoted as sscGNM). In the result, sscGNM improves the flexibility prediction, especially for the nucleotide binding domains with rich kinds of secondary structures. The 46 key residue clusters located in different subdomains are identified which are highly consistent with experimental observations. Furtherly, we explore the long‐range cooperation within the transporter. This study is helpful for strengthening the understanding of the work mechanism in ABC exporters and can provide important information to scientists in drug design studies.
Curcumin/d‐mannitol as photolarvicide: induced delay in larval development time, changes in sex ratio and reduced longevity of Aedes aegypti
Authors: Mezzacappo Natasha Ferreira , de Souza Larissa Marila , Inada Natália Mayumi , Dias Lucas Danilo , Garbuio Matheus , Venturini Francine Perri , Corrêa Thaila Quatrini , Moura Lidia , Blanco Kate Cristina , de Oliveira Kleber Thiago , Bagnato Vanderlei Salvador
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Resistant populations of Ae. aegypti have been a major problem in arboviruses epidemic areas, generating a strong demand for novel methods of vector control. In this regard, our group has demonstrated the use of curcumin as an efficient photoactive larvicide to eliminate Ae. aegypti larvae. This work was aimed to evaluate the Ae. aegypti (Rockefeller) development under sublethal conditions, using a curcumin/d‐mannitol (DMC) formulation. The photolarvicidal efficacy under semi‐field and field conditions (wild populations) was also analyzed, as well as the photobleaching and residual activity of DMC.

RESULTS

A delay in development time when larvae were exposed to sublethal concentrations of DMC was observed, followed by significant changes in sex ratio and reduction in longevity. DMC also presented a low residual activity when compared to usual larvicides, and had a substantial photolarvicidal activity against wild populations in field trials, achieving 71.3% mortality after 48 h.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, these findings are of great biological importance for the process of enabling the implementation of DMC as a new product in the control of Ae. aegypti larvae, and contributes to the improvement of new plant‐based larvicides. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Biosafety of bee pollinators in genetically modified agro‐ecosystems: Current approach and further development in the EU
Authors: Arpaia Salvatore , Smagghe Guy , Sweet Jeremy B
Published: January 2021

Bee pollinators are an important guild delivering a fundamental input to European agriculture due to the ecological service they provide to crops in addition to the direct economic revenues from apiculture. Bee populations are declining in Europe as a result of the effects of several environmental stressors, both natural and of anthropic origin. Efforts are ongoing in the European Union (EU) to improve monitoring and management of pollinator populations to arrest further declines. Genetically modified (GM) crops are currently cultivated in a limited area in Europe, and an environmental risk assessment (ERA) is required prior to their authorization for cultivation. The possible impacts of GM crops on pollinators are deemed relevant for the ERA. Existing ecotoxicological studies indicate that traits currently expressed in insect‐resistant GM plants are unlikely to represent a risk for pollinators. However, new mechanisms of insect resistance are being introduced into GM plants, including novel combinations of Cry toxins and double strand RNA (dsRNA), and an ERA is required to consider lethal and sublethal effects of these new products on nontarget species, including insect pollinators. The evaluation of indirect effects linked to the changes in management practices (e.g. for herbicide‐tolerant GM crops) is an important component of EU regulations and a requirement for ERA. This paper reviews current approaches used to test the sensitivity of pollinators to GM plants and their products to determine whether sufficient data are being provided on novel GM plants to satisfy EU risk assessment requirements. © 2021 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Reinforcement learning and Bayesian data assimilation for model‐informed precision dosing in oncology
Authors: Maier Corinna , Hartung Niklas , Kloft Charlotte , Huisinga Wilhelm , de Wiljes Jana
Published: January 2021

Model‐informed precision dosing (MIPD) using therapeutic drug/biomarker monitoring offers the opportunity to significantly improve the efficacy and safety of drug therapies. Current strategies comprise model‐informed dosing tables or are based on maximum a posteriori estimates. These approaches, however, lack a quantification of uncertainty and/or consider only part of the available patient‐specific information. We propose three novel approaches for MIPD using Bayesian data assimilation (DA) and/or reinforcement learning (RL) to control neutropenia, the major dose‐limiting side effect in anticancer chemotherapy. These approaches have the potential to substantially reduce the incidence of life‐threatening grade 4 and subtherapeutic grade 0 neutropenia compared with existing approaches. We further show that RL allows to gain further insights by identifying patient factors that drive dose decisions. Due to its flexibility, the proposed combined DA‐RL approach can easily be extended to integrate multiple end points or patient‐reported outcomes, thereby promising important benefits for future personalized therapies.
Economic and economic‐statistical designs of the side sensitive group runs chart with auxiliary information
Authors: Ng Peh Sang , Khoo Michael B. C. , Yeong Wai Chung , Saha Sajal , Chew XinYing
Published: January 2021

This article studies the economic and economic‐statistical designs of the auxiliary information (AI) based side sensitive group runs (SSGR‐AI) chart. The regression estimator that consists of information not only from the primary variable but also from the auxiliary variable is integrated into the control charting statistic. Optimal designs of the SSGR‐AI chart, for the minimization of the expected cost function with and without statistical constraints, are developed based on (i) average run length (ARL) and (ii) expected average run length (EARL). Furthermore, sensitivity analyses are conducted, that is, the impact of various input parameters on the optimal parameters and costs for different values of correlation coefficients (ρ) between the primary and auxiliary variables are investigated. In addition, the effects of incorrect specification of the size of the shift on the optimal cost of the SSGR‐AI chart are studied. The comparative study reveals that the SSGR‐AI chart is superior to the exponentially weighted moving average‐AI (EWMA‐AI) and synthetic‐AI (Syn‐AI) charts, for both designs, by giving the smallest costs.
Purification of Single and Entangled Photons by Wavepacket Shaping
Authors: Chuu Chih‐Sung , Cheng Chun‐Yuan , Wu Chih‐Hsiang , Wei Cheng‐Yeh , Huang Sheng‐Yao , Chen Yen‐Ju , Feng Shih‐Wen , Yang Chun‐Yao
Published: January 2021

Single photons and entangled photons lie at the heart of photonic quantum technologies, whose optimal performances are normally reached when the purity of the single or entangled photons is high. However, the multiphoton emission, dissipation, and decoherence in practical realizations always lead to the degradation of the single‐ and entangled‐ photon quality. The purification of single or entangled photons is thus valuable to restore the quantum states and enhance the performance of quantum technologies. The applications of wavepacket shaping, an emerging quantum optics tool to manipulate the single‐ and entangled‐ photon wavefunctions, to purify single and entangled photons are reviewed. In particular, by modulating the single photons emitted from optically excited room‐temperature quantum dots, it is shown that the fast‐decaying multiphoton emission can be eliminated to obtain a low value of g(2)(0) that is independent of the excitation power. It is also shown that the two‐photon interference and polarization entanglement of the non‐degenerate biphotons from spontaneous parametric down‐conversion can be restored after modulating the biphotons with a periodic function. The works have potential applications in long‐distance quantum communication and linear optical quantum computation.
Direct Ink Writing of Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3‐Based Solid‐State Electrolytes with Customized Shapes and Remarkable Electrochemical Behaviors
Authors: Liu Zixian , Tian Xiaocong , Liu Min , Duan Shanshan , Ren Yazhou , Ma Hui , Tang Kang , Shi Jianpeng , Hou Shuen , Jin Hongyun , Cao Guozhong
Published: January 2021

All‐solid‐state lithium batteries have received extensive attention due to their high safety and promising energy density and are considered as the next‐generation electrochemical energy storage system. However, exploring solid‐state electrolytes in customized geometries without sacrificing the ionic transport is significant yet challenging. Herein, various 3D printable Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 (LATP)‐based inks are developed to construct ceramic and hybrid solid‐state electrolytes with arbitrary shapes as well as high conductivities. The obtained inks show suitable rheological behaviors and can be successfully extruded into solid‐state electrolytes using the direct ink writing (DIW) method. As‐printed free‐standing LATP ceramic solid‐state electrolytes deliver high ionic conductivity up to 4.24 × 10−4 S cm−1 and different shapes such as “L”, “T,” and “+” can be easily realized without sacrificing high ionic transport properties. Moreover, using this printing method, LATP‐based hybrid solid‐state electrolytes can be directly printed on LiFePO4 cathodes for solid‐state lithium batteries, where a high discharge capacity of 150 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C is obtained. The DIW strategy for solid‐state electrolytes demonstrates a new way toward advanced solid‐state energy storage with the high ionic transport and customized manufacturing ability.
The Impact of Lipid Digestion on the Dynamic and Structural Properties of Micelles
Authors: Pink Demi L. , Foglia Fabrizia , Barlow David J. , Lawrence M. Jayne , Lorenz Christian D.
Published: January 2021

Self‐assembled, lipid‐based micelles, such as those formed by the short‐chain phosphocholine, dihexanoylphosphatidylcholine (2C6PC), are degraded by the pancreatic enzyme, phospholipase A2 (PLA2). Degradation yields 1‐hexanoyl‐lysophosphocholine (C6LYSO) and hexanoic acid (C6FA) products. However, little is known about the behavior of these products during and after the degradation of 2C6PC. In this work, a combination of static and time‐resolved small angle neutron scattering, as well as all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations, is used to characterize the structure of 2C6PC micelles. In doing so a detailed understanding of the substrate and product aggregation behavior before, during and after degradation is gained. Consequently, the formation of mixed micelles containing 2C6PC, C6LYSO and C6FA is shown at every stage of the degradation process, as well as the formation of mixed C6LYSO/C6FA micelles after degradation is complete. The use of atomistic molecular dynamics has allowed us to characterize the structure of 2C6PC, 2C6PC/C6LYSO/C6FA, and C6LYSO/C6FA micelles throughout the degradation process, showing the localization of the different molecular species within the aggregates. In addition, the hydration of the 2C6PC, C6LYSO, and C6FA species both during micellization and as monomers in aqueous solution is documented to reveal the processes driving their micellization.
Nuclear Stiffness Decreases with Disruption of the Extracellular Matrix in Living Tissues
Authors: McCreery Kaitlin P. , Xu Xin , Scott Adrienne K. , Fajrial Apresio K. , Calve Sarah , Ding Xiaoyun , Neu Corey P.
Published: January 2021

Reciprocal interactions between the cell nucleus and the extracellular matrix lead to macroscale tissue phenotype changes. However, little is known about how the extracellular matrix environment affects gene expression and cellular phenotype in the native tissue environment. Here, it is hypothesized that enzymatic disruption of the tissue matrix results in a softer tissue, affecting the stiffness of embedded cell and nuclear structures. The aim is to directly measure nuclear mechanics without perturbing the native tissue structure to better understand nuclear interplay with the cell and tissue microenvironments. To accomplish this, an atomic force microscopy needle‐tip probe technique that probes nuclear stiffness in cultured cells to measure the nuclear envelope and cell membrane stiffness within native tissue is expanded. This technique is validated by imaging needle penetration and subsequent repair of the plasma and nuclear membranes of HeLa cells stably expressing the membrane repair protein CHMP4B‐GFP. In the native tissue environment ex vivo, it is found that while enzymatic degradation of viable cartilage tissues with collagenase 3 (MMP‐13) and aggrecanase‐1 (ADAMTS‐4) decreased tissue matrix stiffness, cell and nuclear membrane stiffness is also decreased. Finally, the capability for cell and nucleus elastography using the AFM needle‐tip technique is demonstrated. These results demonstrate disruption of the native tissue environment that propagates to the plasma membrane and interior nuclear envelope structures of viable cells.
Robust Anode‐Supported Cells with Fast Oxygen Release Channels for Efficient and Stable CO2 Electrolysis at Ultrahigh Current Densities
Authors: Li Tianpei , Wang Tengpeng , Wei Tao , Hu Xun , Ye Zhengmao , Wang Zhi , Dong Dehua , Chen Bin , Wang Huanting , Shao Zongping
Published: January 2021

High‐temperature electrolysis using solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) provides a promising way for the storage of renewable energy into chemical fuels. During the past, nickel‐based cathode‐supported thin‐film electrolyte configuration was widely adopted. However, such cells suffer from the serious challenge of anode delamination at high electrolysis currents due to enormous gaseous oxygen formation at the anode‐electrolyte interface with insufficient adhesion caused by low sintering temperatures for ensuring high anode porosity and cathode pulverization because of potential nickel redox reaction. Here, the authors propose, fabricate, and test asymmetric thick anode‐supported SOECs with firm anode‐electrolyte interface and graded anode gas diffusion channel for realizing efficient and stable electrolysis at ultrahigh currents. Such a specially structured anode allows the co‐sintering of anode support and electrolyte at high temperatures to form strong interface adhesion while suppressing anode sintering. The mixed oxygen‐ion and electron conducting anode with graded channel structure provides a fast oxygen release pathway, large anode surface for oxygen evolution reaction, and excellent support for depositing nanocatalysts, to further improve oxygen evolution activity. As a result, the as‐prepared cells demonstrate both high performance, comparable or even higher than state‐of‐the‐art cathode‐supported SOECs, and outstanding stability at a record current density of 2.5 A cm−2.
Triggered Dimerization and Trimerization of DNA Tetrahedra for Multiplexed miRNA Detection and Imaging of Cancer Cells
Authors: Zhou Zhixin , Fan Daoqing , Wang Jianbang , Sohn Yang Sung , Nechushtai Rachel , Willner Itamar
Published: January 2021

The reversible and switchable triggered reconfiguration of tetrahedra nanostructures from monomer tetrahedra structures into dimer or trimer structures is introduced. The triggered bridging of monomer tetrahedra by K+‐ion‐stabilized G‐quadruplexes or T‐A•T triplexes leads to dimer or trimer tetrahedra structures that are separated by crown ether or basic pH conditions, respectively. The signal‐triggered dimerization/trimerization of DNA tetrahedra structures is used to develop multiplexed miRNA‐sensing platforms, and the tetrahedra mixture is used for intracellular sensing and imaging of miRNAs.
Sectional analysis of the flexural creep of cracked fiber reinforced concrete
Authors: Vrijdaghs Rutger , di Prisco Marco , Vandewalle Lucie
Published: January 2021

This paper presents a sectional analysis of cracked fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) under flexural loading. The approach considers three separate loading conditions: monotonic, cyclic, and creep bending loads. Different parts of the approach are experimentally calibrated and validated with tests on polypropylene FRC. In the monotonic regime, numerical optimization is used to find the optimal stress–strain relation of FRC to capture the experimental bending behavior as closely as possible, while satisfying the horizontal force and bending moment equilibrium. To model the cyclic behavior, the constitutive law is extended by introducing a tension‐only scalar damage function. The agreement between the predicted and measured response is again very good, and the measured upwards shift of the neutral axis during unloading is predicted as well. Finally, the flexural creep response of a cracked FRC beam is simulated by using uniaxial creep data. The approach predicts the time‐dependent crack widening under sustained flexural loading and can be used to check SLS criteria in the design of FRC elements.
Measuring amphetamine‐induced dopamine release in humans: A comparative meta‐analysis of [11C]‐raclopride and [11C]‐(+)‐PHNO studies
Authors: Caravaggio Fernando , Porco Natasha , Kim Julia , Torres‐Carmona Edgardo , Brown Eric , Iwata Yusuke , Nakajima Shinichiro , Gerretsen Philip , Remington Gary , Graff‐Guerrero Ariel
Published: January 2021

The radiotracers [11C]‐raclopride and [11C]‐(+)‐PHNO are commonly used to measure differences in amphetamine‐induced dopamine release between healthy persons and persons with neuropsychiatric diseases. As an agonist radiotracer, [11C]‐(+)‐PHNO should theoretically be roughly 2.7 times more sensitive to displacement by endogenous dopamine than [11C]raclopride. To date, only one study has been published comparing the sensitivity of these two radiotracers to amphetamine‐induced dopamine release in healthy persons. Unfortunately, conflicting findings in the literature suggests that the dose of amphetamine they employed (0.3 mg/kg, p.o.) may not reliably reduce [11C]‐raclopride binding in the caudate. Thus, it is unclear whether the preponderance of evidence supports the theory that [11C]‐(+)‐PHNO is more sensitive to displacement by amphetamine in humans than [11C]‐raclopride. In order to clarify these issues, we conducted a comparative meta‐analysis summarizing the effects of amphetamine on [11C]‐raclopride and [11C]‐(+)‐PHNO binding in healthy humans. Our analysis indicates that amphetamine given at 0.3 mg/kg, p.o. does not reliably reduce [11C]‐raclopride binding in the caudate. Second, the greater sensitivity of [11C]‐(+)‐PHNO is evidenced at 0.5 mg/kg, p.o., but not at lower doses of amphetamine. Third, our analysis suggests that [11C]‐(+)‐PHNO may be roughly 1.5 to 2.5 times more sensitive to displacement by amphetamine than [11C]‐raclopride in healthy persons. We recommend that future displacement studies with these radiotracers employ 0.5 mg/kg, p.o. of amphetamine with a dose, post‐scan interval of at least 3 hr. Using this dose of amphetamine, [11C]‐raclopride studies should employ at leastn = 34 participants per group, while [11C]‐(+)‐PHNO studies should employ at leastn = 6 participants per group, in order to be sufficiently powered (80%) to detect changes in radiotracer binding within the caudate.
Combining transcranial magnetic stimulation with functional magnetic resonance imaging for probing and modulating neural circuits relevant to affective disorders
Authors: Oathes Desmond J. , Balderston Nicholas L. , Kording Konrad P. , DeLuisi Joseph A. , Perez Gianna M. , Medaglia John D. , Fan Yong , Duprat Romain J. , Satterthwaite Theodore D. , Sheline Yvette I. , Linn Kristin A.
Published: January 2021

Combining transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with functional magnetic resonance imaging offers an unprecedented tool for studying how brain networks interact in vivo and how repetitive trains of TMS modulate those networks among patients diagnosed with affective disorders. TMS compliments neuroimaging by allowing the interrogation of causal control among brain circuits. Together with TMS, neuroimaging can provide valuable insight into the mechanisms underlying treatment effects and downstream circuit communication. Here we provide a background of the method, review relevant study designs, consider methodological and equipment options, and provide statistical recommendations. We conclude by describing emerging approaches that will extend these tools into exciting new applications.

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Emotion and Motivation

Psychology > Theory and Methods

Neuroscience > Clinical Neuroscience
Direct Democracy
Authors: Linder Wolf , Mueller Sean
Published: January 2021

Chapter 4 discusses the emergence, types and functioning of Swiss direct democracy and assesses its effects on power-sharing and the political system more broadly. Contrary to what many theorists have claimed, direct democracy is not too demanding for people in a highly developed industrial society. The fact that citizens have a direct say up to four times a year at federal level, in addition to frequent referendums at cantonal and local level, makes voting almost a routine exercise. It also allows today’s losers to become tomorrow’s winners—and vice versa, thus fostering mutual respect and cooperation. Yet contrary also to what some revolutionaries had hoped for, it has not led to radical change either. Instead, direct democracy has above all led to political conservatism, be that regarding welfare policies, defence or European integration.
Consensus Democracy: The Swiss System of Power-Sharing
Authors: Linder Wolf , Mueller Sean
Published: January 2021

This chapter unpacks the notion of power-sharing and explains its centrality for political Switzerland. While direct democracy has played an important part in its evolution, law-making in Switzerland has become impossible without the participation of various interest groups at early stages of drafting already. The chapter details the functioning of Switzerland’s broad-based political pluralism, its structure of consociational democracy, the representation of the most important political parties and interest groups, and the ensuing processes of negotiation and mutual adjustment. It also discusses challenges and pitfalls of power-sharing.
Comparative Perspectives
Authors: Linder Wolf , Mueller Sean
Published: January 2021

This chapter develops three comparative perspectives. Beginning with direct democracy, enhancing the direct participation of people as in Switzerland—considered revolutionary in the nineteenth century—may still be regarded a progressive form of democracy. But are increased political rights, offering the people not only a voice in electing their representatives but also a chance to decide major decisions directly, really an efficient way to improve democracy? The second perspective deals with federalism. Traditionally understood as a means for the vertical division of power within states, can it also play a role for the supranational division of power and the participation of minorities? The last section places political power-sharing in a context of conflict resolution, especially in multicultural societies. The chapter ends by stressing that power-sharing is not just an institutional arrangement, but that it also has to be based on the specific culture of a society that intends to practice it.
Far beyond the planar limit in strongly-coupled $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 SYM
Authors: Chester Shai M. , Pufu Silviu S.
Published: January 2021

Abstract

When the SU(N) $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 super-Yang-Mills (SYM) theory with complexified gauge coupling τ is placed on a round four-sphere and deformed by an $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2-preserving mass parameter m, its free energy F (m, τ,$$ \overline{\tau} $$

τ
¯

) can be computed exactly using supersymmetric localization. In this work, we derive a new exact relation between the fourth derivative $$ {\partial}_m^4F\left(m,\tau, \overline{\tau}\right)\left|{{}_m}_{=0}\right. $$

∂
m
4

F

m
τ

τ
¯

m

=
0

of the sphere free energy and the integrated stress-tensor multiplet four-point function in the $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM theory. We then apply this exact relation, along with various other constraints derived in previous work (coming from analytic bootstrap, the mixed derivative $$ {\partial}_{\tau }{\partial}_{\overline{\tau}}{\partial}_m^2F\left(m,\tau, \overline{\tau}\right)\left|{{}_m}_{=0}\right. $$

∂
τ

∂

τ
¯

∂
m
2

F

m
τ

τ
¯

m

=
0

, and type IIB superstring theory scattering amplitudes) to determine various perturbative terms in the large N and large ’t Hooft coupling λ expansion of the $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM correlator at separated points. In particular, we determine the leading large-λ term in the $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM correlation function at order 1/N8. This is three orders beyond the planar limit.
The role of diversity and tolerance in economic development
Authors: Kwasnicki Witold
Published: January 2021

This paper presents an evolutionary model of industry development, and uses simulations to investigation the role of diversity and heterogeneity in firms’ behaviour, and hence industrial development. The simulations suggest that economic growth is increased with greater variety, in the sense of the evolutionary process approaching the equilibrium faster and also, in the long run, moving faster from one equilibrium to a new, more advanced, equilibrium. This occurs due to higher variety caused by a more tolerant environment, and due to the higher probability of emergence of radical innovations.
Differentiation of bisphenol F diglycidyl ether isomers and their derivatives by HPLC-MS and GC-MS—comment on the published data
Authors: Kasperkowiak Małgorzata , Beszterda Monika , Bańczyk Izabela , Frański Rafał
Published: January 2021

Positional isomers of bisphenol F diglycidyl ether (BFDGE) have been analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS, GC-MS). Positional isomers of BFDGE derivatives (BFDGEx2H2O, BFDGExH2OxHCl) have been analyzed by HPLC-MS. On the basis of the obtained fragmentation patterns, the elution order of the isomers has been unequivocally determined, in standard solutions and in the sample of liquid obtained after rinsing an empty mackerel fish can with acetonitrile. Under HPLC condition, para,para isomers are eluted first, then ortho,para isomers’ elution follows, and ortho,ortho isomers are eluted last. Under GC condition, the reverse elution order has been obtained. For the first time, two ortho,para isomers of BFDGExH2OxHCl have been detected and their elution order has been determined. The obtained results are of key importance for determination of the isomer distribution of BFDGE and its derivatives in food samples.
Novel in vivo depiction of optic nerves hemorrhages in child abuse: a 3D-SWI pilot study
Authors: Zuccoli Giulio
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Until now, the diagnosis of optic nerves hemorrhages in abusive head trauma (AHT) has been obtained only in the postmortem setting. The aim of the IRB-approved study was to assess the presence of optic nerves hemorrhages in AHT patients using 3D-SWI.

Methods

Thirteen children with a final confirmed multidisciplinary diagnosis of AHT underwent coronal and axial 3D-SWI imaging of the orbits. The presence of optic nerve sheath (ONS) hemorrhages was defined by thickening and marked 3D-SWI hypointensity of the ONS, resulting in mass effect upon the CSF space. Optic nerve (ON) hemorrhages were defined by areas of susceptibility artifacts in the ON parenchyma. Superficial siderosis was defined by susceptibility artifact coating the ON. Furthermore, data about post-traumatic deformity of the ONS at the head of the optic nerve were collected.

Results

The average age of the population was 7.9 ± 5.9 months old. The average GCS was 11.8 ± 4.5. The male to female ratio was 7:6. ONS hemorrhages were identified in 69.2% of cases. Superficial siderosis and ON hemorrhages were identified in 38.5 and 76.9% of cases, respectively. 3D-SWI also depicted traumatic deformity of the ONS at the level of the optic nerve head in 10 cases (76.9%). No statistical correlations were identified between RetCam findings and 3D-SWI findings or GCS and ON hemorrhages.

Conclusion

This research shows that dedicated MRI with volumetric SWI of the orbits can depict hemorrhages in the ON, ONS, and ONS injury, in AHT victims.
Reliability of a Caton-Deschamps-derived patella height index for knee arthroplasty
Authors: Konrads Christian , Grosse Lucia C. , Ahmad Sufian S. , Springer Fabian , Schreiner Anna J. , Schmidutz Florian , Erne Felix
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The original Caton-Deschamps index (oCDI) detects functional patella height. It cannot be used in knees with an implanted endoprosthesis. The “modified Caton-Deschamps index” (mCDI) for knee arthroplasty can miss pseudo-patella-infera (PPI), which is common after TKA. A derivate of the oCDI could be a simple analogue to the index published in 1982 using a modified tibial reference point at the anterior proximal point of the inlay, which can indirectly be located on the lateral knee radiograph. It was the aim of this study to determine the intra- and inter-rater agreement of a derived Caton-Deschamps index (dCDI) for knee arthroplasty. We hypothesized that the derived Caton-Deschamps index (dCDI) is a reliable radiological measure for patella height in knee arthroplasty.

Methods

Several patella height indices were measured by three independent raters in two passes. The second pass was performed after 6 weeks in random order. Intra- and inter-observer agreements were determined and analyzed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). For radiographic evaluation, digital lateral radiographs of 150 knees before and after primary TKA were used.

Results

We found high interrater reliability for all analyzed indices. We found the highest agreements for the ISI preop (ICC = 0.914) and postop (ICC = 0.920), respectively. We also found very good intra-rater reliability for the CDI (ICCpreop = 0.954), dCDI (ICCpostop = 0.945), ISI (ICCpreop = 0.960; ICCpostop=0.940) and BPI (ICCpreop = 0.969; ICCpostop = 0.955). Fourteen cases (9.3%) with insignificant PPI were found.

Conclusion

The derived Caton-Deschamps index (dCDI) can easily be used in knee arthroplasty and demonstrated high intra- and interrater agreement, which was similar to other commonly used and established patella height indices.
Polarization control and mode optimization of 850 nm multi-mode VCSELs using surface grating
Authors: Liao Wenyuan , Li Chuanchuan , Li Jian , Guo Xiaofeng , Guo Wentao , Wei Xin , Tan Manqing
Published: January 2021

To control the polarization of 850 nm multi-mode oxide-confined vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), monolithically integrated surface gratings are investigated. VCSELs with different grating parameters are simulated by the rigorous coupled-wave analysis (RCWA) method. Optical field intensity of two polarization orientations with different grating periods and duty cycles is obtained. The mode characteristics of VCSELs with different grating parameters are achieved by FDTD method. 850 nm surface grating VCSELs are fabricated and characterized, a maximum orthogonal polarization suppression ratio (OPSR) of 20.7 dB is observed. Meanwhile, VCSEL’s output mode characteristics are improved by integrating the surface grating. Application of integrated surface grating technique to achieve dynamically polarization-stable multi-mode VCSELs which enable polarization division multiplexed data transmission, the data throughput over a given link can be doubled.
The role of transient eddies and diabatic heating in the maintenance of European heat waves: a nonlinear quasi-stationary wave perspective
Authors: Ma Qiyun , Franzke Christian L. E.
Published: January 2021

European heat waves result from large-scale stationary waves and have major impacts on the economy and mortality. However, the dynamical processes leading to and maintaining heat waves are still not well understood. Here we use a nonlinear stationary wave model (NSWM) to examine the role played by anomalous stationary waves and how they are forced during heat waves. For our study, we use the Japanese Reanalysis (JRA-55) data for the period 1958 through 2017. We show that the NSWM can successfully reproduce the main features of the observed anomalous stationary waves in the upper troposphere. Our results indicate that the dynamics of heat waves are nonlinear, and transient momentum fluxes are the primary drivers of the observed anomalous stationary waves. The contribution from orographic forcing is moderate and mainly through nonlinear interactions with diabatic heating. Further decomposition of the transients indicates that the high-frequency transient vorticity fluxes make dominant contributions. Furthermore, our results reveal that the response to heating located in the tropical Indian Ocean and the west Pacific region is primarily responsible for maintaining the observed anomalous stationary waves linked to European heat waves. This is confirmed by exploring the relationship between heat waves and the Indian Ocean Dipole strength. The heating in the mid-latitude and tropical Atlantic region plays a secondary role. Our results suggest that European heat waves are potentially predictable by considering the nonlinear effects involved in anomalous stationary waves and the heating sources in the nearby and remote tropical region.