bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Ontology for Standardising Trustworthy AI
Authors: Lewis Dave , Filip David , J. Pandit Harshvardhan
Published: July 2021

Worldwide, there are a multiplicity of parallel activities being undertaken in developing international standards, regulations and individual organisational policies related to AI and its trustworthiness characteristics. The current lack of mappings between these activities presents the danger of a highly fragmented global landscape emerging in AI trustworthiness. This could present society, government and industry with competing standards, regulations and organisational practices that will then serve to undermine rather than build trust in AI. This chapter presents a simple ontology that can be used for checking the consistency and overlap of concepts from different standards, regulations and policies. The concepts in this ontology are grounded in an overview of AI standardisation currently being undertaken in ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 42 and identifies its project to define an AI management system standard (AIMS or ISO/IEC WD 42001) as the starting point for establishing conceptual mapping between different initiatives. We propose a minimal, high level ontology for the support of conceptual mapping between different documents and show in the first instance how this can help map out the overlaps and gaps between and among SC 42 standards currently under development.
Geospatial Clustering of Mobile Phone Use and Tuberculosis Health Outcomes among African Health Systems
Authors: Ibeneme Sunny , Ukor Nkiruka , Okeibunor Joseph , Zawaira Felicitas
Published: July 2021

Background: While multiple studies have documented the impacts of mobile phone use on TB health outcomes for varied settings, it is not immediately clear what the spatial patterns of TB treatment completion rates among African countries are. This paper used Exploratory Spatial Data Analysis (ESDA) techniques to explore the clustering spatial patterns of TB treatment completion rates in 53 African countries as well as their relationships with mobile phone use. Using an ESDA approach to identify countries with low TB treatment completion rates and reduced mobile phone use is the first step towards addressing issues related to poor TB outcomes. Methods: TB notifications and treatment data from 2000 through 2015 obtained from the World Bank database were used to illustrate a descriptive epidemiology of TB treatment completion rates among African health systems. Spatial clustering patterns of TB treatment completion rates were assessed using differential local Moran’s I techniques; and local spatial analytics was performed using local Moran’s I tests. Relationships between TB treatment completion rates and mobile phone use were evaluated using ESDA approach. Results: Spatial autocorrelation patterns generated were consistent with Low-Low and High-Low cluster patterns and were significant at different p-values. Algeria and Senegal had significant clusters across the study periods, while Democratic Republic of Congo, Niger, South Africa, and Cameroon had significant clusters in at least two time-periods. ESDA identified statistically significant associations between TB treatment completion rates and mobile phone use. Countries with higher rates of mobile phone use, showed higher TB treatment completion rates overall, indicating enhanced program uptake (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Study findings provide systematic evidence to inform policy regarding investments in the use of mHealth to optimize TB health outcomes. African governments should identify turnaround strategies to strengthen mHealth technologies and improve outcomes.
Fungal Deterioration of Cultural Heritage Objects
Authors: Savković Željko , Stupar Miloš , Unković Nikola , Knežević Aleksandar , Vukojević Jelena , Ljaljević Grbić Milica
Published: July 2021

Significant percent of world cultural heritage artifacts is threatened by fungal infestation. Fungi can deteriorate different substrates via various physical and chemical mechanisms. Hyphal growth and penetration into the substrate can cause symptoms like discoloration, biopitting, cracking, exfoliation and patina formation. On the other hand, chemical mechanisms include acid secretion, release of extracellular enzymes, pigment production, oxidation/reduction reactions and secondary mycogenic minerals formation. These processes can lead to serious, both esthetic and structural, alterations which may be irreversible and could permanently impair artworks. Proper isolation and identification of autochthonous isolates, as well as employment of different microscopic techniques and in vitro biodegradation tests are pivotal in understanding complex biodeterioration mechanisms caused by microorganisms, including fungal deteriogens. Biodeterioration and biodegradation studies require multidisciplinary approach and close collaboration of microbiologists, chemists, geologists and different personnel responsible for the safeguarding of cultural heritage monuments and artifacts, especially restorers and conservators.
Nanotechnology: Past, Present and Future Prospects in Crop Protection
Authors: Das Kallol , Kanti Jhan Pijush , Chandra Das Srijan , Aminuzzaman F.M. , Yaw Ayim Benjamin
Published: July 2021

Nanotechnology is an advanced and evolving discipline in the field of science and technology with various applications in other fields such as the life sciences, and is increasingly important in the plant sciences as well. It is estimated that 20–40% of crops are lost each year due to plant pests and pathogens. The current plant disease management, which primarily relies on toxic pesticides that may be harmful to humans and the environment, has the benefit of utilizing nanotechnology. It has capabilities in determining the outbreak of an epidemic as well as diagnosing different types of diseases. It can also distinguish between similar microbes like bacteria, fungi, viruses, complex genomic portions, and how two versions of genes on an individual chromosome differ. This chapter will cover the plant disease management implementation of this technology.
The Interaction between Maternal and Fetal Hypothalamic – Pituitary – Adrenal Axes
Authors: M. Erhuma Aml
Published: July 2021

The Hypothalamic – Pituitary – Adrenal (HPA) Axis is a unique system that mediates an immediate reactivity to a wide range of stimuli. It has a crucial role in synchronizing the behavioral and hormonal responses to internal and external threats, therefore, increases the chance of survival. It also enables the body systems to adapt to challenges put up by the pregnancy. Since the early stages of pregnancy and throughout delivery, HPA axis of the mother continuously navigates that of the fetus, and both have a specific cross talk even beyond the point of delivery and during postnatal period. Any disturbance in the interaction between the maternal and fetal HPA axes can adversely affect both. The HPA axis is argued to be the mechanism through which maternal stress and other suboptimal conditions during prenatal period can program the fetus for chronic disease in later life. In this chapter, the physiological and non-physiological communications between maternal and fetal HPA axes will be addressed while highlighting specific and unique aspects of this pathway.
Silver Nanoparticles Impregnated Wound Dressings: Recent Progress and Future Challenges
Authors: Singh Atamjit , Kaur Kirandeep , Kaur Komalpreet , Singh Jaijeet , Kumar Nitish , Bedi Neena , Mohinder Singh Bedi Preet
Published: July 2021

Microbial infection remains all time and unresolved challenge in the management of burns and diabetic wounds. Especially in diabetic wounds infections are prominent reason of amputations. Microbial biofilms pose tough polymeric barrier that is difficult to cross by conventional antibiotics. Therefore, traditional approach of infection control using antibiotics is now failing at some extent that raised a need to shift this paradigm. Presently, silver nanoparticles incorporated scaffolds representing a new concept of nanoparticle dressings which is becoming popular in wound management. Recently developed silver nanoparticles functionalized wound dressings exhibited excellent profile in the management of wound infections and promotion of wound healing. This chapter throw light on the recent strategies used in the development of silver nanoparticles functionalized wound dressings and their outcomes along with potential benefits and future challenges in wound management.
Advances in Maintenance of Ports and Waterways: Water Injection Dredging
Authors: Kirichek Alex , Cronin Katherine , de Wit Lynyrd , van Kessel Thijs
Published: July 2021

The main objective of this chapter is to demonstrate developments in port maintenance techniques that have been intensively tested in major European ports. As regular port maintenance is highly expensive, port authorities are considering alternative strategies. Water Injection Dredging (WID) can be one of the most efficient alternatives. Using this dredging method, density currents near the bed are created by fluidizing fine-grained sediments. The fluidized sediment can leave the port channels and be transported away from the waterways via the natural force of gravity. WID actions can be successfully coupled with the tidal cycle for extra effectiveness. In addition, WID is combined with another strategy to reduce maintenance dredging: the nautical bottom approach, which enables the vessel to navigate through the WID-induced fluid mud layer. The nautical bottom approach uses the density or the yield stress of sediment to indicate the navigability after WID rather than the absolute depth to the sediment bed. Testing WID-based port maintenance requires thorough preparation. Over the years modeling and monitoring tools have been developed in order to test and optimize WID operations. In this chapter, the application of the recently developed tools is discussed.
Preclinical Models of Brucellar Spondylodiscitis
Authors: Cai Xiaoyu , Xu Tao , Maimaiti Maierdan , Gao Liang
Published: July 2021

Brucellar spondylodiscitis, the most prevalent and significant osteoarticular presentation of human Brucellosis, is difficult to diagnose and usually yields irreversible neurologic deficits and spinal deformities. Relevant aspects of Brucella pathogenesis have been intensively investigated in preclinical models. Mice, rats, rabbits, and sheep are representing available models to induce Brucellosis. Evaluation of Brucellar spondylodiscitis may be performed using a large variety of methods, including plain radiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, histological analysis, blood test, and bacteria culture. This chapter focuses on these preclinical models of Brucellar spondylodiscitis. The requirements for preclinical models of Brucellar spondylodiscitis, pearls and pitfalls of the preclinical model establishment, and comprehensive analyses of Brucellar spondylodiscitis in animals are also depicted.
Vulnerable Groups and COVID-19 Pandemic; How Appropriate Are Psychosocial Responses?
Authors: Moghanibashi-Mansourieh Amir
Published: July 2021

Covid-19 pandemic has had adverse health, economic and social consequences on different communities, groups and individuals. Vulnerable groups are more likely to contract the infection and suffer from mental disorders particularly anxiety due to lack of access to health and social resources, lower income and less awareness etc. In this chapter, in addition to a description of the psychological and social conditions of vulnerable groups including women, children, the elderly, and minority groups during the pandemic, the factors influencing the success of psychosocial interventions provided for these groups and the weak points and upcoming challenges will be addressed. Finally, the conclusion will offer some recommendation for coping with the future circumstances.
Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Activity of Olive and Rosemary Leave Extracts Prepared with Different Solvents Against Antibiotic-Resistant Escherichia coli
Authors: Fazeli-Nasab Bahman , Valizadeh Moharam , Hassanzadeh Mohammad Amir , Beigomi Maryam
Published: July 2021

Background: This study was done to investigate the antimicrobial activity of rosemary and olive extracts on antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli isolated from quail feces in Zabol city. Methods: Ethanolic and methanolic extracts of rosemary (leaf) and olive (leaf) plants were prepared using a rotary apparatus. Also, E. coli strains were isolated from poultry feces samples, the minimum inhibitory concentration and the minimum bactericidal concentration were determined by the microdilution method. Results: The lowest values of MIC and MBC against E. coli were 12.5 ppm and 25 ppm for rosemary ethanolic extract and 25 ppm and 50 ppm for rosemary methanolic extract, respectively. The lowest values of MIC and MBC against E. coli were 12.5 ppm and 25 ppm for olive ethanolic extract and 6.25 ppm and 12.5 ppm for olive methanolic extract, respectively. Conclusions: In general, methanol solvent and olive extract are highly effective against E. coli. Due to the obtained results and increasing resistance of bacteria to chemical antibiotics, it is suggested that with further studies on olives and the use of methanol solvent in the extraction of plant extracts, antibacterial compounds of olives and other plants be used in the treatment of bacterial infections.
Comparison of the Postgraduate Orthodontics Curriculum in Mashhad Dental School with the Top Ten Dental Schools in the World
Authors: Abtahi Mostafa , Azizzadeh Negin , Bagheri Hossein , Ghasemzadeh Alireza
Published: July 2021

Background: Recognizing and reviewing the educational curricula of the specialized fields of dentistry and comparing it with the curricula of the top universities in the world will help to provide the necessary changes and corrections in postgraduate dental education, leading to more skilled specialists. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the orthodontics post graduate curriculum of Mashhad dental school with the top 10 international dental schools. Methods: Twenty-two of the world's top universities (10 main and 12 reserve) that offer orthodontics postgraduate programs were selected. A checklist including eight key factors and some secondary variables was prepared. These factors were classified as quantitative and qualitative. The checklist was filled with information provided by university websites and contacting program directors using email. A sample t-test and descriptive-analytic approach were respectively used to analyze the quantitative and qualitative data. Results: Among the quantitative factors that were evaluated, only the “percentage of completely treated patients” was significantly lower in Mashhad dental school compared with that of the top 10 international dental schools. There was no significant difference regarding the length of study, the number of professors, and the number of patients visited by each resident. Among the qualitative factors, the most diversity was seen in certificates awarded to graduates. Conclusions: No significant difference was observed in didactic education, clinical training, and research project conduction between the orthodontics post graduate program of Mashhad dental school and top-tier international universities.
Interobserver Reliability for Identifying Specific Patterns of Placental Injury as Defined by the Amsterdam Classification
Authors: Redline Raymond W. , Vik Torstein , Heerema-McKenney Amy , Jamtoy Ann-Helen , Ravishankar Sanjita , Ton Nu Tuyet Nhung , Vogt Christina , Ng Pamela , Nelson Karin B. , Lydersen Stian , Oskoui Maryam
Published: July 2021

Context.—

Placental pathology is an essential tool for understanding neonatal illness. The recent Amsterdam international consensus has standardized criteria and terminology, providing harmonized data for research and clinical care.

Objective.—

To evaluate the interobserver reliability of these criteria between pathologists at different levels of experience using digitally scanned slides from placentas in a birth population including a large proportion of normal deliveries.

Design.—

This was a secondary analysis of selected placentas from a large case-control study of placental lesions associated with neonatal encephalopathy. Histologic slides from 80 placentas were digitally scanned and blindly evaluated by 6 pathologists. Interobserver reliability was assessed by positive and negative agreement, Fleiss κ, and interrater correlation coefficients.

Results.—

Overall agreement on the diagnosis, grading, and staging of acute chorioamnionitis and villitis of unknown etiology was moderate to good for all observers and good to excellent for a subset of 4 observers. Agreement on the diagnosis and subtyping of fetal vascular malperfusion was poor to fair for all observers and fair to moderate for the subset of 4 pathologists. Agreement on accelerated villous maturation was poor.

Conclusions.—

This study critically evaluates interobserver reliability for lesions defined by the Amsterdam consensus using scanned images with a low frequency of pathologic lesions. Although reliability was good to excellent for inflammatory lesions, lower reliability for vascular lesions emphasizes the need to more explicitly define the specific histologic features and boundaries for these patterns.
Wave Wake: Focus on Vessel Operations within Sheltered Waterways
Authors: Macfarlane Gregor J. , Bose Neil , Duffy Jonathan T.
Published: July 2021

This paper describes the development of an empirical tool that can rapidly and accurately predict the characteristics of the wave wake generated by vessels that typically operate within sheltered waterways, including small commercial craft and recreational vessels. A wave wake regulatory criterion is also proposed and incorporated within the prediction tool.
PHYTOCHEMICAL STUDY TO VALIDATE THE ETHNOBOTANICAL IMPORTANCE OF Dioscorea steriscus TUBERS OBTAINED FROM ZIMBABWE
Authors: Tapera Masimba , Wanjau Ruth , Dzomba Pamhidzai , Machocho Alex K. , Mburu Jane
Published: July 2021

Modern people have embraced plants as a source of useful bioactive compounds. As such, plants with medicinal properties have become essential components in human life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the phytochemical profile of the extract of Dioscorea steriscus tubers obtained from Zimbabwe. Phytochemicals were extracted from tubers of D. steriscus using aqueous acetone. UV-Visible Spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry and highperformance liquid chromatography (HPLC) techniques were used to determine the phytochemical profile of the tuber extract. The yield of phytochemicals extracted from D. steriscus tubers was found to be 6.38 %. The presence of bioactive compounds possessing phenyl, organic hydroxyl, amine, carboxyl, carbonyl, acyl, alkyl and aromatic functional groups was confirmed using UVVisible and FTIR analysis. The presence of substantial amounts of vanillic acid and kaempferol in D. steriscus tubers was confirmed using HPLC analysis. In support of the ethnobotanical values of Dioscorea species, the study confirmed the presence of potent phytochemicals in the extract of D. steriscus tubers obtained from Zimbabwe.
ANALYSIS OF APPROACHES TO THE MATERIAL FLOW IN THE PRODUCTION PROCESS WITH THE USE OF SIMULATION
Authors: Duplakova Darina , Duplak Jan , Mital Dusan , Soltes Peter , Sukic Enes
Published: July 2021

Simulation in the production process represents the implementation of processes in real-time and space. Current trends are heading towards the implementation and expansion of various types of automated delivery systems in many industrial enterprises. These efforts are supported by requirements to increase reliability, reduce operating costs and time as well as meet operational schedules. The present article pays attention to the use of simulations, which are supporting tools in ensuring the operation of the production process, focusing on the evaluation and planning of the material flow. The first part of the paper presents a theoretical description of problems in the area of application of simulation tools in the production process with a subsequent focus on material flow analysis. The core of the paper presents a description of the analysis of approaches to material flow assessment, using supportive simulation tools in line with the ideas of business digitization. At the end of the article, the overall evaluation and summary of the issue are described.
MARKETING IN TOURISM - DIRECT MARKETING AS MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Hujić Nejra , Salihić Fatima
Published: July 2021

Marketing in tourism is a systematic adjustment of tourism company policy and political policy at the local, regional, national and international levels in order to meet the needs of tourists and make a profit. The purpose of the paper is to explain how direct marketing, especially as part of a marketing mix, can help facilitate the exchange process in the international and domestic tourism markets. The aim of studying marketing in tourism is to make this concept available in this activity in theoretical, methodological and application terms. Marketing in the tourism industry is in a phase of maturity and is becoming sophisticated, which leads to the fact that the entire industry increasingly accepts the basic principles of marketing: The concept of marketing; Marketing orientation; Meeting the wishes and needs of consumers; Market segmentation; Value ; Product life cycle and Marketing mix (the principle on which the essence of the work is based). Direct marketing activities are based on databases and interactive communication media. Databases enable the selection of the target market (customer), which is acted upon by selecting the appropriate advertising/sales medium. The most famous media of direct marketing are certainly catalogs, direct mail and telephone (telemarketing), while in practice many others are used such as: television, radio, Internet, mobile phones, print, inserts.
PORODIČNO AFEKTIVNO VEZIVANJE I AGRESIVNOST KOD NEPSIHOTIČNIH POČINILACA NASILNIH KRIVIČNIH DELA
Authors: Samardžić Snežana
Published: July 2021

Problem agresije i agresivnosti veoma je aktuelan u naše vreme. Sama agresija nije nasilje, ali to postaje kada se ispolji kao kriminalni akt. Dosadašnja teoretska sagledavanja i konkretna istraživanja prirode nasilnog ponašanja bar u određenoj meri impliciraju da su mnogi poremećaji u strukturi ponašanja (između ostalog i nasilno, kriminalno ponašanje) jednim delom uslovljeni i poremećenim porodičnim odnosima. Aktuelno istraživanje, oslanjajući se na teoriju afektivnog vezivanja, imalo je za cilj da ispita da li postoje neke razlike unutar grupe nepsihotičnih počinilaca nasilja sa različitim obrascima porodične afektivne vezanosti u odnosu na vrstu i nivo agresivnosti. Ispitivanje je provedeno na uzorku od 62 ispitanika muškog pola, sa istorijom počinjenja nekog nasilnog krivičnog dela. U ispitivanju usvojenih obrazaca porodične afektivne vezanosti (PAV) korišćen je modifikovani Brenanov upitnik za procenjivanje PAV, dok su nivo i struktura agresivnosti ispitivani pomoću skale agresivnosti BPAG. Rezultati su pokazali da sigurno vezani ispitanici imaju najniži nivo agresivnosti po svim modalitetima koje meri korišćena skala u odnosu na ispitanike sa nesigurnim vezivanjem. Takođe, ispitanici sa okupiranim obrascem vezivanja pokazuju značajno veći nivo hostilnosti, a plašljivo vezani pokazuju značajno veći nivo besa, hostilnosti i ukupne agresivnosti. Između sigurno i odbacujuće vezanih nije nađena statistički značajna razlika.
AFEKTIVNA VEZANOST U DJETINJSTVU KAO PREDIKTOR STRESA, ANKSIOZNOSTI, DEPRESIVNOSTI I ADVERZIVNIH ISKUSTAVA KOD MLADIH
Authors: Ibeljić Elvir , Đurić Miroslav
Published: July 2021

Istraživanjem se nastojalo utvrditi uticaj afektivne vezanosti u djetinjstvu kao prediktora stresa, anksioznosti, depresije i adverzivnih iskustava kod mladih. Uzorak istraživanja činilo je 202 ispitanika, ujednačeni po polu (Nm=102; Nž=100), koji dolaze sa područja grada Bihać i okoline. Za potrebe istraživanja korišteni su upitnik depresivnosti, anksioznosti i stresa (DASS skala), upitnik adverzivnih iskustava iz djetinjstva (ACE) i upitnik porodične afektivne vezanosti (PAVb). Nepotpunost porodice narušava porodičnu strukturu i remeti njeno prirodno stanje što može dovesti do patologije afektivne vezanosti koja se u našem istraživanju pokazala kao značajan prediktor internalizirajućih (simptomi anksioznosti i depresije) promjena u ponašanja kod mladih (p.01). Nekonzistentnost odnosa u porodici dovodi i do potencijalno traumatskih, adverzivnih, iskustva koja je osoba mogla da doživi u periodu od rođenja do 18 godine života a čija simptomatologija je pokazana na statistički značajnom nivou (p.01) u ovom istraživanju. Istraživanja ukazuju na konzistentne spolne razlike u kojima žene imaju intezivnije internalizirajuće simptome od muškaraca što u ovom istraživanju nije pokazano kroz statističku značajnost. Naime, zbog razlika u adolescenciji koje postoje u stilu suočavanja sa stresnim situacijama između muškaraca i žena, rezultati ovog istraživanja ukazuju da postoje razlike u kojima muškarci pokazuju statistički značajnije (p.01) ispoljvanje depresivnosti i u prosjeku izraženije simptome anksioznosti i adverzivnih iskustava, a žene samo statistički značajno (p.01) ispoljavanje simptoma stresa.
LOKALNA SAMOUPRAVA U REPUBLICI SRPSKOJ
Authors: Golijan Dragan M.
Published: July 2021

U svijetu, posebno u Evropi poklanja se izuzetna pažnja lokalnoj samoupravi, jer je ona oblik i odlučivanja i upravljanja u užim lokalnim zajednicama. Lokalna samouprava u Republici Srpskoj je klasični tip lokalne samouprave u kojoj građani imaju određen stepen samostalnosti u obavljanju određenih poslova, prava i dužnosti. Lokalna samouprava se u cjelini ostvaruje u opštini, a data je mogućnost da se vršenje tih poslova povjeri i gradu. Ustavni položaj opredijelio je važno mjesto u političkom sistemu Republike Srpske.
СОЦИОЛОГИЈА, КРИМИНАЛ И ДЕВИЈАНТНО ПОНАШАЊЕ МЛАДИХ
Authors: Наградић Слободан
Published: July 2021

У раду се промишља и теоријски елаборише феномен омладине, прије свега у Републици Српској, истражује етиологија њеног неповољног актуелног друштвеног положаја, њена социјална маргинализација, политичка апстиненција, али и идентификују неколики потенцијали њеног еманципаторског дјеловања у надолазећем периоду. Аутор је дескриписао неколико социјалних фактора који негативно дјелују на статус омладине у транзиционим промјенама изложеној Републици Српској, а посебан фокус својих разматрања усмјерио је ка одређеним садржајима и формама социјалних девијација, посебно акцентујући криминал. Аутор ове социолошке елаборације, које чине важан заокрет у постулирању истраживања криминала у Републици Српској, БиХ и њима сличним друштвима, поставља тезу да ће се о криминалу и учешћу појединих групација омладине у њему више сазнати уколико се (у)питамо о криминалу стари(ји)х, него ако се и даље држимо стереотипне премисе да су млади узрок и генератор криминала.
The role of P2Y12 in the kinetics of microglial self-renewal and maturation in the adult visual cortex in vivo
Authors: Mendes Monique S , Le Linh , Atlas Jason , Brehm Zachary , Ladron-de-Guevara Antonio , Matei Evelyn , Lamantia Cassandra , McCall Matthew N , Majewska Ania K
Published: July 2021

Microglia are the brain’s resident immune cells with a tremendous capacity to autonomously self-renew. Because microglial self-renewal has largely been studied using static tools, its mechanisms and kinetics are not well understood. Using chronic in vivo two-photon imaging in awake mice, we confirm that cortical microglia show limited turnover and migration under basal conditions. Following depletion, however, microglial repopulation is remarkably rapid and is sustained by the dynamic division of remaining microglia, in a manner that is largely independent of signaling through the P2Y12 receptor. Mathematical modeling of microglial division demonstrates that the observed division rates can account for the rapid repopulation observed in vivo. Additionally, newly born microglia resemble mature microglia within days of repopulation, although morphological maturation is different in newly born microglia in P2Y12 knock out mice. Our work suggests that microglia rapidly locally and that newly born microglia do not recapitulate the slow maturation seen in development but instead take on mature roles in the CNS.
Ct threshold values, a proxy for viral load in community SARS-CoV-2 cases, demonstrate wide variation across populations and over time
Authors: Walker A Sarah , Pritchard Emma , House Thomas , Robotham Julie V , Birrell Paul J , Bell Iain , Bell John I , Newton John N , Farrar Jeremy , Diamond Ian , Studley Ruth , Hay Jodie , Vihta Karina-Doris , Peto Timothy EA , Stoesser Nicole , Matthews Philippa C , Eyre David W , Pouwels Koen B ,   COVID-19 Infection Survey team
Published: July 2021

Background:

Information on SARS-CoV-2 in representative community surveillance is limited, particularly cycle threshold (Ct) values (a proxy for viral load).

Methods:

We included all positive nose and throat swabs 26 April 2020 to 13 March 2021 from the UK’s national COVID-19 Infection Survey, tested by RT-PCR for the N, S, and ORF1ab genes. We investigated predictors of median Ct value using quantile regression.

Results:

Of 3,312,159 nose and throat swabs, 27,902 (0.83%) were RT-PCR-positive, 10,317 (37%), 11,012 (40%), and 6550 (23%) for 3, 2, or 1 of the N, S, and ORF1ab genes, respectively, with median Ct = 29.2 (~215 copies/ml; IQR Ct = 21.9–32.8, 14–56,400 copies/ml). Independent predictors of lower Cts (i.e. higher viral load) included self-reported symptoms and more genes detected, with at most small effects of sex, ethnicity, and age. Single-gene positives almost invariably had Ct > 30, but Cts varied widely in triple-gene positives, including without symptoms. Population-level Cts changed over time, with declining Ct preceding increasing SARS-CoV-2 positivity. Of 6189 participants with IgG S-antibody tests post-first RT-PCR-positive, 4808 (78%) were ever antibody-positive; Cts were significantly higher in those remaining antibody negative.

Conclusions:

Marked variation in community SARS-CoV-2 Ct values suggests that they could be a useful epidemiological early-warning indicator.

Funding:

Department of Health and Social Care, National Institutes of Health Research, Huo Family Foundation, Medical Research Council UK; Wellcome Trust.
Increased theta/alpha synchrony in the habenula-prefrontal network with negative emotional stimuli in human patients
Authors: Huang Yongzhi , Sun Bomin , Debarros Jean , Zhang Chao , Zhan Shikun , Li Dianyou , Zhang Chencheng , Wang Tao , Huang Peng , Lai Yijie , Brown Peter , Cao Chunyan , Tan Huiling
Published: July 2021

Lateral habenula is believed to encode negative motivational stimuli and plays key roles in the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders. However, how habenula activities are modulated during the processing of emotional information is still poorly understood. We recorded local field potentials from bilateral habenula areas with simultaneous cortical magnetoencephalography in nine patients with psychiatric disorders during an emotional picture-viewing task. Transient activity in the theta/alpha band (5–10 Hz) within the habenula and prefrontal cortical regions, as well as the coupling between these structures, is increased during the perception and processing of negative emotional stimuli compared to positive emotional stimuli. The increase in theta/alpha band synchronization in the frontal cortex-habenula network correlated with the emotional valence but not the arousal score of the stimuli. These results provide direct evidence for increased theta/alpha synchrony within the habenula area and prefrontal cortex-habenula network in the perception of negative emotion in human participants.
Structural intermediates observed only in intact Escherichia coli indicate a mechanism for TonB-dependent transport
Authors: Nilaweera Thushani D , Nyenhuis David A , Cafiso David S
Published: July 2021

Outer membrane TonB-dependent transporters facilitate the uptake of trace nutrients and carbohydrates in Gram-negative bacteria and are essential for pathogenic bacteria and the health of the microbiome. Despite this, their mechanism of transport is still unknown. Here, pulse electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) measurements were made in intact cells on the Escherichia coli vitamin B12 transporter, BtuB. Substrate binding was found to alter the C-terminal region of the core and shift an extracellular substrate binding loop 2 nm toward the periplasm; moreover, this structural transition is regulated by an ionic lock that is broken upon binding of the inner membrane protein TonB. Significantly, this structural transition is not observed when BtuB is reconstituted into phospholipid bilayers. These measurements suggest an alternative to existing models of transport, and they demonstrate the importance of studying outer membrane proteins in their native environment.
Discovering generative models from event logs: data-driven simulation vs deep learning
Authors: Camargo Manuel , Dumas Marlon , González-Rojas Oscar
Published: July 2021

A generative model is a statistical model capable of generating new data instances from previously observed ones. In the context of business processes, a generative model creates new execution traces from a set of historical traces, also known as an event log. Two types of generative business process models have been developed in previous work: data-driven simulation models and deep learning models. Until now, these two approaches have evolved independently, and their relative performance has not been studied. This paper fills this gap by empirically comparing a data-driven simulation approach with multiple deep learning approaches for building generative business process models. The study sheds light on the relative strengths of these two approaches and raises the prospect of developing hybrid approaches that combine these strengths.
Long-term dynamics of Norovirus transmission in Japan, 2005–2019
Authors: Misumi Megumi , Nishiura Hiroshi
Published: July 2021

Norovirus continues to evolve, adjusting its pathogenesis and transmissibility. In the present study, we systematically collected datasets on Norovirus outbreaks in Japan from 2005 to 2019 and analyzed time-dependent changes in the asymptomatic ratio, the probability of virus detection, and the probability of infection given exposure. Reports of 1,728 outbreaks were published, and feces from all involved individuals, including those with asymptomatic infection, were tested for virus in 434 outbreaks. We found that the outbreak size did not markedly change over this period, but the variance in outbreak size increased during the winter (November–April). Assuming that natural history parameters did not vary over time, the asymptomatic ratio, the probability of virus detection, and the probability of infection given exposure were estimated to be 18.6%, 63.3% and 84.5%, respectively. However, a model with time-varying natural history parameters yielded better goodness-of-fit and suggested that the asymptomatic ratio varied by year. The asymptomatic ratio was as high as 25.8% for outbreaks caused by genotype GII.4 noroviruses. We conclude that Norovirus transmissibility has not changed markedly since 2005, and that yearly variation in the asymptomatic ratio could potentially be explained by the circulating dominant genotype.
Investigation of pixel scale calibration on the Elekta iView electronic portal imager
Authors: Norvill Craig , Goodall Simon
Published: July 2021

This study investigated the variation in electronic portal imager pixel scale at the isocenter plane for Elekta Agility linear accelerators. An in‐house MATLAB script was written to process and calculate the pixel scale based on a metal calibration plate supplied by Elekta. Eight pixel plates were compared and found to have manufacturing tolerances within 0.1 mm of nominal dimensions. The impact of these variations on pixel scale factor was negligible, and plates could be used interchangeably. Uncertainties from other parameters such as source‐to‐surface distance and user variability summed to a combined uncertainty of 0.0003 mm/pixel, compared to a pixel scale range of 0.003 mm/pixel measured across 10 machines. Most of the inter‐machine variation was shown to be attributable to differences in source‐to‐panel distance. Other factors such as focal spot size and shape, electronic portal imager manufacturing consistency, panel sag, and setup errors may account for the residual variation. Individual characterization of machine and imaging panel pixel scale factors is important to ensure accurate geometric information is derived from electronic portal images, which is critical where the portal imager is used for multi‐leaf collimator calibration or other clinical tasks.
Effect of Coordinatively Unsaturated Sites in MOF‐Derived Highly Porous CuO for Catalyst‐Free ppb‐Level Gas Sensors
Authors: Kim Kyusung , Choi Pil Gyu , Itoh Toshio , Masuda Yoshitake
Published: July 2021

Herein, the authors successfully synthesize diamond‐ and square‐type Cu‐metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and then convert them to highly porous CuO nanostructures with maintaining their morphology. Both the CuO‐diamond (CuO‐D) and CuO‐square (CuO‐S) gas sensors can detect a tiny concentration of acetone gas up to 50 ppb. However, the gas sensitivity depends on the morphology and the CuO‐D exhibits a higher gas response (Rg/Ra: 3.3) for 1 ppm of acetone as compared with CuO‐S sensors (Rg/Ra: 2.5). The mainly exposed crystal facet on the surface significantly affects the sensor performance. Especially, coordinatively unsaturated metal sites in an exposed facet can allow enhancing the sensitivity. The (111) facet is the main exposed facet of CuO‐D and it includes Cu3‐fold which is a coordinatively unsaturated metal site. These relatively unstable Cu3‐fold sites are favorable to react with other molecules to stabilize themselves as compared with coordinatively saturated Cu4‐fold. Thus, CuO‐D demonstrates higher sensitivity as compared to CuO‐S, which is the main reaction surface as (020) facet composed only of Cu4‐fold.
Impact of tank mixing plant hormones with bentazon and mesotrione on sweetpotato injury and weed control
Authors: Caputo Giovanni A. , Wadl Phillip A. , McCarty Lambert , Adelberg Jeffrey , Saski Christopher , Cutulle Matthew
Published: July 2021

Due to excessive crop damage, currently, there are no selective postemergent (POST) herbicides registered for sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam] to control broadleaves and nutsedge species. Expansion of bentazon and mesotrione herbicide labels to include sweetpotato would be beneficial for growers. Two experiments were conducted. The first evaluated the dose response of sweetpotato cultivars Beauregard and Covington to bentazon (514, 1,028, and 1,542, g a.i. ha–1) and mesotrione (105, 210, and 315 g a.i. ha–1) when melatonin, 24‐epibrassinolide, or ascorbic acid (AsA) were included in the tank mix. The second experiment evaluated the efficiency of bentazon and mesotrione for control of yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus L.) and Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Wats.), when different doses of melatonin, 24‐epibrassinolide, or AsA were added to each herbicide. In the first experiment, when treated with herbicide alone, Beauregard exhibited injury levels lower than Covington for both herbicides. No injury was observed when plants were treated with plant hormones or AsA alone. At the lowest dose of bentazon and mesotrione, the addition of AsA or plant hormones in the tank mix significantly reduced percentage injury and increased plant tolerance, requiring higher doses of herbicide to cause 10, 20, and 30% injury. In the second experiment, the addition of plant hormones and AsA in the tank mix had no antagonistic effect on herbicide effectiveness, exhibiting similar levels of injuries as herbicides application alone. These results suggest that the use of plant hormones and AsA could improve sweetpotato tolerance to POST applications of bentazon and mesotrione without reducing herbicide effectiveness.
Romidepsin and lenalidomide‐based regimens have efficacy in relapsed/refractory lymphoma: Combined analysis of two phase I studies with expansion cohorts
Authors: Mehta‐Shah Neha , Lunning Matthew A. , Moskowitz Alison J. , Boruchov Adam M. , Ruan Jia , Lynch Peggy , Hamlin Paul A. , Leonard John , Matasar Matthew J. , Myskowski Patricia L. , Marzouk Evan , Nair Sumithra , Sholklapper Tamir , Minnal Veena , Palomba Maria L. , Vredenburgh James , Kumar Anita , Noy Ariela , Straus David J. , Zelenetz Andrew D. , Schoder Heiko , Rademaker Jurgen , Schaffer Wendy , Galasso Natasha , Ganesan Nivetha , Horwitz Steven M.
Published: July 2021

Romidepsin (histone deacetylase inhibitor), lenalidomide (immunomodulatory agent), and carfilzomib (proteasome inhibitor), have efficacy and lack cumulative toxicity in relapsed/refractory lymphoma. We performed two investigator initiated sequential phase I studies to evaluate the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of romidepsin and lenalidomide (regimen A) and romidepsin, lenalidomide, and carfilzomib (regimen B) in relapsed/refractory lymphoma. Cohorts in T‐cell lymphoma (TCL), B‐cell lymphoma (BCL) were enrolled at the MTD. Forty‐nine patients were treated in study A (27 TCL, 17 BCL, 5 Hodgkin lymphoma (HL)) and 27 (16 TCL, 11 BCL) in study B. The MTD of regimen A was romidepsin 14 mg/m2 IV on days 1, 8, and 15 and lenalidomide 25 mg oral on days 1–21 of a 28‐day cycle. The MTD of regimen B was romidepsin 8 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8, lenalidomide 10 mg oral on days 1–14 and carfilzomib 36 mg/m2 IV on days 1 and 8 of a 21‐day cycle. In study A, 94% had AEs ≥Grade 3, most commonly neutropenia (49%), thrombocytopenia (53%), and electrolyte abnormalities (49%). In study B 59% had AEs ≥Grade 3, including thrombocytopenia (30%) and neutropenia (26%). In study A the ORR was 49% (50% TCL, 47% BCL, 50% HL). In study B the ORR was 48% (50% TCL, 50% BCL). For study A and B the median progression free survival (PFS) was 5.7 months and 3.4 months respectively with 11 patients proceeding to allogeneic transplant. The combinations of romidepsin and lenalidomide and of romidepsin, lenalidomide and carfilzomib showed activity in relapsed/refractory lymphoma with an acceptable safety profile.
One‐pot Synthesis of Substituted Pyrazoles from Propargyl Alcohols via Cyclocondensation of in situ‐Generated α‐Iodo Enones/Enals and Hydrazine Hydrate
Authors: Guo Huifeng , Zhang Qinglin , Pan Wanyong , Yang Hong , Pei Keke , Zhai Jiulong , Li Tiantian , Wang Zhihai , Wang Yan , Yin Yan
Published: July 2021

An efficient Bi(OTf)3‐catalyzed transformation of unprotected propargylic alcohols has been developed, affording a general, one‐pot approach to access diverse pyrazoles via sequential iodo‐intercepted Meyer‐Schuster rearrangement, cyclocondensation of NH2NH2 ⋅ H2O and α‐iodo enones/enals generated in situ, and iodine elimination. This transformation tolerates a wide range of substrates and is reliable on a large scale. The high yields and convenient experimental operations make it a valuable method for the construction of pyrazole derivatives.
Significant enhancement of thermoelectric properties of conducting PTB7 polymer by addition of appropriate dopants
Authors: Rastegaralam Mina , Rastegaralam Mitra
Published: July 2021

Thermoelectric properties of poly({4,8‐bis [(2‐ethylhexyl)oxy] benzo [1,2‐b:4,5‐b'] dithiophene‐2,6‐ diyl}{3‐fluoro‐2‐ [(2‐ethylhexyl) carbonyl] thieno[3,4‐b] thiophenediyl}), commonly known as PTB7 conducting polymer was investigated for the first time by the first author in 2017, and it showed higher electrical conductivity or Seebeck coefficient (or even both) and hence, higher thermoelectric power factor than a variety of organic semiconductors. Therefore, it is worth working more on this semiconductor to improve its thermoelectric power factor. In this work, for the first time, 4 new dopants are introduced to PTB7 polymer to improve its thermoelectric properties. The materials are famous oxidants that are inexpensive and easily available with no need to perform any synthesis process, including antimony pentachloride (SbCl5), iron trichloride (FeCl3), thionyl chloride (SOCl2), and iodine (I2). As a result, significant enhancement of thermoelectric power factor after doping with antimony pentachloride (from 0.224 to 25.5 μWK−2 m−1,) and iron trichloride (from 0.224 to 18.2 μWK−2 m−1,) and moderate enhancement with thionyl chloride was obtained. For the case of iodine doping, simultaneous enhancement of electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient was observed due to increasing the mobility.
Symmetry Breaking and Autocatalytic Amplification in Soai Reaction Confined within UiO‐MOFs under Heterogenous Conditions.
Authors: Rotunno Giuseppe , Kaur Gurpreet , Lazzarini Andrea , Buono Carlo , Amedjkouh Mohamed
Published: July 2021

Symmetry breaking is observed in the Soai reaction in a confinement environment provided by zirconium‐based UiO‐MOFs used as crystalline sponges. Subsequent reaction of encapsulated Soai aldehyde with Zn(i‐Pr)2 vapour promoted absolute asymmetric synthesis of the corresponding alkanol. ATR‐IR and NMR confirm integration of aldehyde into the porous material, and a similar localization of newly formed chiral alkanol after reaction. Despite the confinement, the Soai reaction exhibits significant activity and autocatalytic amplification. Comparative catalytic studies with various UiO‐MOFs indicate different outcomes in terms of enantiomeric excess, handedness distribution of the product and reaction rate, when compared to pristine solid Soai aldehyde, while the crystalline MOF remains highly stable to action of Zn(iPr)2 vapour. This is an unprecedented example of absolute asymmetric synthesis using MOFs.
Ruthenium Catalyzed Intramolecular C−X (X=C, N, O, S) Bond Formation via C−H Functionalization: An Overview
Authors: Singh Pallavi , Kumar Chouhan Kishor , Mukherjee Arup
Published: July 2021

Ruthenium catalyzed C−H activation is well known for its high tolerance towards the functional group and broad applicability in organic synthesis and molecular sciences, with significant applications in pharmaceutical industries, material sciences, and polymer industry. In the last few decades, enormous progress has been observed with ruthenium‐catalyzed C−H activation chemistry. Notably, the vast majority of the C−H functionalization known in the literature are intermolecular, although the intramolecular variant provides fascinating new structural facet starting from the simple molecular scaffolds. Intramolecular C−H functionalization is atom economical and step efficient, results in less formation of undesired products which is easy to purify. This has created a lot of interest in organic chemistry in developing new synthetic strategies for such functionalization. The focus of this review is to present the relatively unexplored intramolecular functionalization of C−H bonds into C−X (X=C, N, O, S) bonds utilizing versatile ruthenium catalysts, their scope, and brief mechanistic discussion.
Theoretical Assessment of Dinitrogen Fixation on Carbon Atom
Authors: Song Hayoung , Lee Eunsung
Published: July 2021

Dinitrogen activation in non‐metallic systems has received considerable attention in recent years. Herein, we report the theoretical feasibility of N2 fixation using aminocarbenes (L) or their anionic derivatives. The molecular descriptors of L and anionic L−, which affect the interaction of L and anionic L− with N2, were identified through multiple linear regression analysis. Additionally, the electron flow during C−N bond formation was confirmed by performing intrinsic reaction coordination calculations with intrinsic bond orbital analysis for the reaction of anionic L− with N2.