bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of interleukin‐38 levels in serum of patients with coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Al‐bassam Wasan W. , Al‐Karaawi Ibtihal A. , Sharquie Inas K. , Ad'hiah Ali H.
Published: April 2022

Interleukin‐38 (IL‐38) has recently been considered as a cytokine with anti‐inflammatory properties in viral respiratory infections, particularly coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19), but the evidence has not been well elucidated. Therefore, a case‐control study was conducted to determine IL‐38 serum levels in 148 patients with COVID‐19 (45 moderate, 55 severe, and 48 critical) and 113 controls. Results demonstrated that IL‐38 levels did not show significant differences between patients and controls (68.7 [interquartile range: 62.7–75.6] vs. 67.7 [58.0–82.6] pg/ml; probability = 0.457). Similarly, patients stratified by disease severity, age group, gender, or chronic disease showed no significant differences between IL‐38 levels in each stratum. Whereas, overweight/obese patients had a significantly lower median of IL‐38 compared to normal‐weight patients. Further, IL‐38 showed significantly higher levels in the age group ≥50 years of patients with critical illness than in the age group <50 years. Female patients with severe disease also showed significantly elevated levels of IL‐38 compared to male patients. In conclusion, the study indicated that serum IL‐38 levels were not affected by COVID‐19 infection, but the distribution of patients according to disease severity, age, gender, and body mass index may better reveal the role of IL‐38 in disease pathogenesis.
Immunogenicity correlation in cynomolgus monkeys between Luminex‐based total IgG immunoassay and pseudovirion‐based neutralization assay for a 14‐valent recombinant human papillomavirus vaccine
Authors: Bei Lei , Zhang Xiao , Meng Dan , Gao Shuman , Jia Jilei , Zhao Dandan , Luo Chunxia , Li Xuefeng , Qiu Hongbin , Xie Liangzhi
Published: April 2022

A new virus‐like particle based vaccine covering 14 types of high‐risk and disease‐inducing human papillomavirus (HPV) can offer better coverage against HPV‐induced diseases, particularly cervical cancers. However, the assessment of immunogenicity of the vaccine is an important task, representing not only its significant clinical characteristics, but also a major challenge, in terms of both the suitability of methods and the clinical sample testing throughput supporting clinical development. This work covers the development and evaluation of a method based on Luminex technology (a coded‐bead and flow‐cytometric approach) to assess the HPV‐type specific total immunoglobulin G (IgG). This method can evaluate the antibodies in sera post immunization against multiple types of HPV simultaneously (i.e., with multiplexing capability), save time and cost, and improve test throughput with higher sensitivity and precision than the classical, plate‐based enzyme‐linked immunoassay and competitive Luminex‐based immunoassays. Using cynomolgus monkeys as model, we demonstrated the good correlation between the results from the pseudovirion‐based neutralization assay (PBNA), and the Luminex‐based total IgG assay, supporting that the latter method can be considered as a viable, dependable replacement method for the PBNA supporting immunogenicity evaluation of HPV vaccine in preclinical development and clinical investigation.
Visual search during dynamic displays: Effects of velocity and motion direction
Authors: Tong Mu , Chen Shanguang , Niu Yafeng , Wu Jinchun , Tian Jingze , Xue Chengqi
Published: April 2022

The visual search performance during dynamic environment has been demonstrated that could be affected by the motion of target and distractors. In present study, two experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of motion direction and velocity on visual search on screen. In Experiment 1, participants were required to complete the search task at three velocities(2, 8, and 16 deg/s) and four directions of motion(up, down, left, right). In Experiment 2, participants finished the more difficult visual search tasks within two directions (right, left) at higher velocities (16, 24, and 32 deg/s). The experiments revealed that the increase of velocity on the screen has a negative effect on the visual search performance, and when the velocity is higher than 8 deg/s, search times for horizontally moving images were shorter than those for vertically moving images. Furthermore, the difference in search performance could also be found in left‐moving and right‐moving images with the increase of velocity. Right‐moving images were proved to correspond to higher visual search performance. In addition, eye movement data indicated that saccade amplitude and saccade velocity might be responsible for this difference. The results of this study can be applied to industrial inspection, safety inspection, driving, and other fields.
Comparison of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Between 2 Subclinical Atherosclerosis Measures in Healthy Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Karim Roksana , Xu Wenrui , Kono Naoko , Li Yanjie , Yan Mingzhu , Stanczyk Frank Z. , Hodis Howard N. , Mack Wendy J.
Published: April 2022

Objectives

Although carotid artery intima media thickness (CIMT) is a widely used determinant of subclinical atherosclerosis, gray‐scale median of the intima‐media complex (IM‐GSM) of the common carotid artery is a relatively novel measure of echogenicity reflecting composition of the arterial wall. It is important to compare cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor correlates across CIMT and IM‐GSM to determine whether these measures reflect distinct aspects of atherosclerosis.

Methods

Baseline information from a completed randomized clinical trial of 643 healthy postmenopausal women without clinically apparent CVD was included in this cross‐sectional study. The women were on average ± SD 61 ± 7 years old, and predominantly non‐Hispanic White. CIMT and IM‐GSM were measured by high‐resolution B‐mode ultrasonogram in the far wall of the right common carotid artery. CVD risk factors including age, race, body mass index (BMI), smoking, weekly hours of physical activity, systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), lipids, glucose, and inflammatory markers were measured at baseline. Linear regression models were used to assess associations of CVD risk factors with CIMT and IM‐GSM. Multivariable models included groups of risk factors added one at a time with and withoutbasic demographic factors (age, race, BMI, physical activity) with model R2 values compared between CIMT and IM‐GSM.

Results

In multivariable analysis, age, Black race, BMI, SBP, and DBP were associated with CIMT (all P < .05), whereas age, Hispanic race, BMI, SBP, physical activity, LDL‐cholesterol, and leptin were correlates of IM‐GSM (all P < .05). Adjusted for age, race, BMI, and physical activity, the R2 value for SBP was greater for CIMT association, whereas R2 values for lipids, glucose, inflammatory markers, and adipokines were greater for IM‐GSM associations.

Conclusions

CIMT and IM‐GSM assess different attributes of subclinical atherosclerosis. Integrating both measures may provide improved assessment of atherosclerosis in asymptomatic individuals.
Removal of Small Cavernous Hemangioma in Orbital Apex Through an Endoscopic Transethmoidal‐Sphenoidal Approach
Authors: Zhou Guangming , Pan Zhaoqi , Tu Yunhai , Yu Bo , Shi Jieliang , Wu Ende , Wu Wencan
Published: April 2022

Objective

To investigate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of an endoscopic transethmoidal‐sphenoidal approach in removing a small cavernous hemangioma (CH) located in the deep lateral orbital apex.

Methods

This study involved 19 patients diagnosed with a CH located in the deep lateral orbital apex. All patients underwent an endoscopic transethmoidal‐sphenoidal approach for removal of the CH. The best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA), visual field, and surgery‐related complications were analyzed and compared.

Results

All tumors in this study were completely removed. The mean BCVA was LogMAR 0.97 ± 0.97 preoperatively and LogMAR 0.38 ± 0.64 postoperatively (p < 0.05). The mean visual field index was 52.26% ± 33.26% preoperatively and 75.47% ± 30.49% postoperatively (p < 0.05). The mean deviation index was −17.48 ± 12.43 dB preoperatively and −10.10 ± 10.85 dB postoperatively (p < 0.05), and the pattern standard deviation was 6.37 ± 3.77 dB preoperatively and 4.90 ± 3.56 dB postoperatively (p > 0.05). Four (21.1%) patients developed oculomotor limitations and two (10.5%) patients developed ptosis after surgery. All of these symptoms resolved spontaneously, and no other complications occurred. The mean follow‐up time was 6.71 ± 3.89 months.

Conclusion

The endoscopic transethmoidal‐sphenoidal approach is an effective and minimally invasive treatment for removing small CH in the deep lateral orbital apex.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 132:1743–1749, 2022
Electrodeposited Alginate‐Based Green Synthesis of CuS Nanoparticles and Nanocomposite Films for Electrochemical and Colorimetric Detection
Authors: Wang Kanglong , Liu Yueqian , Li Duanming , Zhang Anyang , Mo Pingping , Liu Jun , Wang Yifeng , Chen Yanjun
Published: April 2022

CuS nanoparticles (NPs) and CuS NPs/alginate nanocomposite films are prepared using a novel method based on the coordinated electrodeposition of alginate. This method exquisitely utilizes the coordination of alginate with Cu2+ ions to carry out the electrodeposition, and alginate as the stabilizer for CuS NPs and the major ingredient in the nanocomposite film. Thus, the method has many advantages such as facile operation, green route, mild conditions, and convenient post‐treatment. After the electrodeposition, a smooth and homogeneous film has been electrodeposited on the anodic electrode. Transmission electron microscopy observation reveals that there are nanoparticles (the average size of 6.0 nm) in the electrodeposited film. The results from spectral analysis further confirm the existence of CuS NPs. The CuS NPs/alginate nanocomposite film modified electrode can be directly constructed by taking advantage of the electrodeposition, which shows the electrochemical detection capability towards H2O2 and hydroquinone. The CuS NPs/alginate nanocomposite film also possesses the colorimetric detection capability toward H2O2 and dopamine. Therefore, this study offers a green and convenient method for fabricating CuS NPs and nanocomposite films, which is promising for applications in functional nanocomposites and detection fields.
Big data accumulation for tensile test evaluation of polypropylene sheets following as thickness and strain rate variation
Authors: Kim K.J. , Kim T.‐K.
Published: April 2022

The tensile properties of the polypropylene sheet having a thickness of 1, 2, and 3 mm were examined. It was tested at an initial strain rate of 5×10−4/s of the specimen was processed to 0°, 45° and 90° in the rolling direction. In addition, the tensile test was conducted in a tensile test (5×10−4/s, 5×10−3/s and 5×10−2/s) at various strain rates to evaluate the strain rate sensitivity. The experimental results were relatively reproducible, and the thicker the thickness, the higher the intensity. In addition, the polypropylene sheet showed some anisotropy depending on the rolling direction. Experimental results showed that the strain rate sensitivity was not affected by the difference in thickness.
Shrinkage simulation of blow molded parts using viscoelastic material models
Authors: Michels P. , Bruch O. , Evers‐Dietze B. , Grotenburg D. , Ramakers‐van Dorp E. , Altenbach H.
Published: April 2022

The utilization of simulation procedures is gaining increasing attention in the product development of extrusion blow molded parts. However, some simulation steps, like the simulation of shrinkage and warpage, are still associated with uncertainties. The reason for this is on the one hand a lack of standardized interfaces for the transfer of simulation data between different simulation tools, and on the other hand the complex time‐, temperature‐ and process‐dependent material behavior of the used semi crystalline polymers. Using a new vendor neutral interface standard for the data transfer, the shrinkage analysis of a simple blow molded part is investigated and compared to experimental data. A linear viscoelastic material model in combination with an orthotropic process‐ and temperature‐dependent thermal expansion coefficient is used for the shrinkage prediction. A good agreement is observed. Finally, critical parameters in the simulation models that strongly influence the shrinkage analysis are identified by a sensitivity study.
Determination and evaluation of cohesive element parameters for the progressive delamination analysis
Authors: Yoon D.H. , Lee S.R. , Kim J.H.
Published: April 2022

Prediction of the interlaminar fracture behavior of composite materials is important because it occurs at significantly lower loads than the usual mechanical strength of composite materials. To perform progressive delamination analysis, several cohesive properties should be obtained from experimental results. To conduct the mixed‐mode delamination simulation, the Benzeggagh‐Kenane criterion constant should be derived from the experimentally obtained total strain energy release rate‐mode mixture plot. In this study, a series of processes to perform progressive delamination analysis were carried out. Modes I, II, and mixed mode (I+II) interlaminar fracture tests were conducted, and the cohesive properties were obtained using Turon's methodology. The quadratic stress criterion, linear softening behavior, and Benzeggagh‐Kenane criterion were used to perform progressive delamination analysis. The predicted delamination behavior correlated well with experimental results.
Characterisation of the thermal ageing effects on the mechanical properties when reusing polyamide 12 in the selective laser sintering process
Authors: du Maire P. , Sert E. , Deckert M. , Johlitz M. , Öchsner A.
Published: April 2022

Additive manufacturing is one of the key technologies for the future production of complex and individualised components. One of the most challenging questions to minimize the production cost is the reuse of the powder leftover after the building process. This study investigates the influence on the mechanical properties when reusing the leftover powder out of the process chamber up to four times. Tensile test specimens are produced and investigated. The results show a decreasing in the ultimate tensile strength with repeated reuse of the leftover powder. After four times of reuse the strength increases again. This cannot be explained by the literature and has to be verified in further investigations. The investigations reveal a high mechanical anisotropy as the strength highly depends on the component orientation in the process chamber. The particle shape does not show any differences between virgin and aged powder under the scanning electron microscope.
Development of a topology‐optimized indoor crane trolley for additive manufacturing
Authors: Butze M. , Sert E. , Öchsner A.
Published: April 2022

With the help of additive manufacturing, almost any geometry can be produced. Even those that are impossible or difficult to produce using conventional manufacturing techniques. Topology optimization offers the possibility of designing such geometries and thus also provides added technical value. Therefore, combining those two techniques allows the advantages of each field to be fully exploited. Using a practical example, the housing of a trolley of a smooth‐running crane system, this paper gives an idea of how the process can look like and what needs to be taken into account during implementation. Here it is shown that when considering a system with multiple interfaces to surrounding components, taking into account defined boundary conditions is not possible and a substitute model must be created, which requires a correction of the result.
Comparison of Actinobacteria communities from human‐impacted and pristine karst caves
Authors: Buresova‐Faitova Andrea , Kopecky Jan , Sagova‐Mareckova Marketa , Alonso Lise , Vautrin Florian , Moënne‐Loccoz Yvan , Rodriguez‐Nava Veronica
Published: April 2022

Actinobacteria are important cave inhabitants, but knowledge of how anthropization and anthropization‐related visual marks affect this community on cave walls is lacking. We compared Actinobacteria communities among four French limestone caves (Mouflon, Reille, Rouffignac, and Lascaux) ranging from pristine to anthropized, and within Lascaux Cave between marked (wall visual marks) and unmarked areas in different rooms (Sas‐1, Passage, Apse, and Diaclase). In addition to the 16S rRNA gene marker, 441 bp fragments of the hsp65 gene were used and an hsp65‐related taxonomic database was constructed for the identification of Actinobacteria to the species level by Illumina‐MiSeq analysis. The hsp65 marker revealed higher resolution for species and higher richness (99% operational taxonomic units cutoff) versus the 16S rRNA gene; however, more taxa were identified at higher taxonomic ranks. Actinobacteria communities varied between Mouflon and Reille caves (both pristine), and Rouffignac and Lascaux (both anthropized). Rouffignac displayed high diversity of Nocardia, suggesting human inputs, and Lascaux exhibited high Mycobacterium relative abundance, whereas Gaiellales were typical in pristine caves and the Diaclase (least affected area of Lascaux Cave). Within Lascaux, Pseudonocardiaceae dominated on unmarked walls and Streptomycetaceae (especially Streptomyces mirabilis) on marked walls, indicating a possible role in mark formation. A new taxonomic database  was developed. Although not all Actinobacteria species were represented, the use of the hsp65 marker enabled species‐level variations of the Actinobacteria community to be documented based on the extent of anthropogenic pressure. This approach proved effective when comparing different limestone caves or specific conditions within one cave.
Neuropsychological Functioning in Primary Dystonia: Updated and Expanded Multidomain Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Aita Stephen L. , Del Bene Victor A. , Marotta Dario A. , Pizer Jasmin H. , Hawley Nanako A. , Niccolai Lindsay , Walker Harrison C. , Gerstenecker Adam , Martin Roy C. , Clay Olivio J. , Crowe Michael , Triebel Kristen L. , Hill Benjamin D.
Published: April 2022

Background

Primary dystonia is conventionally considered as a motor disorder, though an emerging literature reports associated cognitive dysfunction.

Objectives

Here, we conducted meta‐analyses on studies comparing clinical measures of cognition in persons with primary dystonia and healthy controls (HCs).

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and PsycINFO (January 2000–October 2020). Analyses were modeled under random effects. We used Hedge's g as a bias‐corrected estimate of effect size, where negative values indicate lower performance in dystonia versus controls. Between‐study heterogeneity and bias were primarily assessed with Cochran's Q, I2, and Egger's regression.

Results

From 866 initial results, 20 studies met criteria for analysis (dystonia n = 739, controls n = 643; 254 effect sizes extracted). Meta‐analysis showed a significant combined effect size of primary dystonia across all studies (g = −0.56, P < 0.001), with low heterogeneity (Q = 25.26, P = 0.15, I2 =  24.78). Within‐domain effects of primary dystonia were motor speed = −0.84, nonmotor speed = −0.83, global cognition = −0.65, language = −0.54, executive functioning = −0.53, learning/memory = −0.46, visuospatial/construction = −0.44, and simple/complex attention = −0.37 (P‐values <0.01). High heterogeneity was observed in the motor/nonmotor speed and learning/memory domains. There was no evidence of publication bias. Moderator analyses were mostly negative but possibly underpowered. Blepharospasm samples showed worse performance than other focal/cervical dystonias. Those with inherited (ie, genetic) disease etiology demonstrated worse performance than acquired.

Conclusions

Dystonia patients consistently demonstrated lower performances on neuropsychological tests versus HCs. Effect sizes were generally moderate in strength, clustering around −0.50 SD units. Within the speed domain, results suggested cognitive slowing beyond effects from motor symptoms. Overall, findings indicate dystonia patients experience multidomain cognitive difficulties, as detected by neuropsychological tests. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Whole exome sequencing is an alternative method in the diagnosis of mitochondrial DNA diseases
Authors: Sun Chong , Wu Shengyang , Chen Ruiguo , Liu Junwu , Wang Jiasen , Ma Yanyun , Yuan Zhulin , Li Yuezhen
Published: April 2022

Background

Mitochondrial disease (MD) is genetically a heterogeneous group of disorders with impairment in respiratory chain complexes or pathways associated with the mitochondrial function. Nowadays, it is still a challenge for the genetic screening of MD due to heteroplasmy of mitochondrial genome and the complex model of inheritance. This study was designed to investigate the feasibility of whole exome sequencing (WES)‐based testing as an alternative option for the diagnosis of MD.

Methods

A Chinese Han cohort of 48 patients with suspect MD features was tested using nanoWES, which was a self‐designed WES technique that covered the complete mtDNA genome and 21,019 nuclear genes. Fourteen patients were identified with a single genetic variant and three with single deletion in mtDNA.

Results

The heteroplasmy levels of variants in mitochondrial genome range from 11% to 100%. NanoWES failed to identify multiple deletions in mtDNA compared with long range PCR and massively parallel sequencing (LR‐PCR/MPS). However, our testing showed obvious advantages in identifying variations in nuclear DNA. Based on nanoWES, we identified two patients with nuclear DNA variation. One of them showed Xp22.33‐q28 duplication, which indicated a possibility of Klinefelter syndrome.

Conclusion

NanoWES yielded a diagnostic rate of 35.4% for MD. With the rapid advances of next generation sequencing technique and decrease in cost, we recommend the usage of nanoWES as a first‐line method in clinical diagnosis.
Transition metal dichalcogenides as catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction: The emblematic case of “inert” ZrSe2 as catalyst for electrolyzers
Authors: Najafi Leyla , Bellani Sebastiano , Zappia Marilena I. , Serri Michele , Oropesa‐Nuñez Reinier , Bagheri Ahmad , Beydaghi Hossein , Brescia Rosaria , Pasquale Lea , Shinde Dipak V. , Zuo Yong , Drago Filippo , Mosina Kseniia , Sofer Zdeněk , Manna Liberato , Bonaccorso Francesco
Published: April 2022

The development of earth‐abundant electrocatalysts (ECs) operating at high current densities in water splitting electrolyzers is pivotal for the widespread use of the current green hydrogen production plants. Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have emerged as promising alternatives to the most efficient noble metal ECs, leading to a wealth of research. Some strategies based on material nanostructuring and hybridization, introduction of defects and chemical/physical modifications appeared as universal approaches to provide catalytic properties to TMDs, regardless of the specific material. In this work, we show that even a theoretically poorly catalytic (and poorly studied) TMD, namely zirconium diselenide (ZrSe2), can act as an efficient EC for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) when exfoliated in the form of two‐dimensional (2D) few‐layer flakes. We critically show the difficulties of explaining the catalytic mechanisms of the resulting ECs in the presence of complex structural and chemical modifications, which are nevertheless evaluated extensively. By doing so, we also highlight the easiness of transforming 2D TMDs into effective HER‐ECs. To strengthen our message in practical environments, we report ZrSe2‐based acidic (proton exchange membrane [PEM]) and alkaline water electrolyzers operating at 400 mA cm–2 at a voltage of 1.88 and 1.92 V, respectively, thus competing with commercial technologies.
Do medication prescription patterns follow guidelines in a cohort of women with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome?
Authors: Tholemeier Lauren N. , Bresee Catherine , De Hoedt Amanda M. , Barbour Kamil E. , Kim Jayoung , Freedland Stephen J. , Anger Jennifer T.
Published: April 2022

Objective

To describe prescription prevalence of oral bladder pain medications among women with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) and to compare with current treatment guidelines.

Methods

We sampled female patients with an ICD‐9/10 diagnosis of IC/BPS (595.1/N30.10) by querying active users of the Veterans Health Administration. Medical records were reviewed to determine whether patients met IC/BPS diagnostic criteria. A cohort of women with other pelvic pain disorders was identified. Prescription prevalence of typical non‐narcotic oral bladder pain medications was compared between the two groups and healthy controls. Prescription prevalence was also compared before and after the diagnosis of IC/BPS was made using Poisson regression.

Results

There were 641 women who met criteria for IC/BPS and 197 women with “Other pelvic pain” disorders. Women with IC/BPS were prescribed a pain medication more often than those with “Other pelvic pain” (77% vs. 59%, p < 0.0001). Of the women with IC/BPS, 44% tried three or more pain medications. Of women with a diagnosis of IC/BPS, only 67% were prescribed an American Urological Association‐recommended medication. Prescription prevalence increased after diagnosis for both pentosan polysulfate (10%–29%, p < 0.0001) and hydroxyzine (17%–40%, p < 0.0001), but not for amitriptyline or cimetidine. Amitriptyline was prescribed to 223 women with IC/BPS, only 125 of which (56%) had a documented history of depression.

Conclusions

Many women with IC/BPS required multiple bladder prescriptions, highlighting the difficulty in finding an effective treatment for IC/BPS. Pentosan polysulfate and hydroxyzine were preferred IC/BPS medications. Our next step will be to analyze treatment patterns in those patients who did not receive medications.
Using probabilistic record linkage and propensity‐score matching to identify a community‐based comparison population
Authors: Holland Margaret L. , Taylor Rose M. , Condon Eileen , Rinne Gabrielle R. , Bleicher Sarah , Li Connie , Seldin Margaret L. , Sadler Lois S.
Published: April 2022

In retrospective cohort studies of interventions disseminated to communities, it is challenging to find comparison groups with high‐quality data for evaluation. We present one methodological approach as part of our study of birth outcomes of second‐born children in a home visiting (HV) program targeting first‐time mothers. We used probabilistic record linkage to link Connecticut's Nurturing Families Network (NFN) HV program and birth‐certificate data for children born from 2005 to 2015. We identified two potential comparison groups: a propensity‐score‐matched group from the remaining birth certificate sample and eligible‐but‐unenrolled families. An analysis of interpregnancy interval (IPI) is presented to exemplify the approach. We identified the birth certificates of 4822 NFN families. The propensity‐score‐matched group had 14,219 families (3‐to‐1 matching) and we identified 1101 eligible‐but‐unenrolled families. Covariates were well balanced for the propensity‐score‐matched group, but poorly balanced for the eligible‐but‐unenrolled group. No program effect on IPI was found. By combining propensity‐score matching and probabilistic record linkage, we were able to retrospectively identify relatively large comparison groups for quasi‐experimental research. Using birth certificate data, we accessed outcomes for all of these individuals from a single data source. Multiple comparison groups allow us to confirm findings when each method has some limitations. Other researchers seeking community‐based comparison groups could consider a similar approach.
Special education staff well‐being and the effectiveness of remote services during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Womack Tyler A. , Monteiro Elissa M.
Published: April 2022

Since March 2020, many school districts across the country have employed remote learning procedures in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic. During the pandemic, schools continued to provide special education services, yet little is known about how services were adapted for remote or hybrid learning during the height of the pandemic in the United States. In the current study, 332 respondents completed a web‐based survey that asked what special education services were provided remotely, whether services were deemed effective, and how remote learning has influenced their well‐being. Most respondents identified as White (79.5%), females (92.4%), and worked as special education teachers (52.9%) and school psychologists (35.4%). In compliance with federal guidelines, most respondents continued to hold individualized education plan meetings, conduct assessments, and provide interventions and related services. There was a significant decrease in respondents' reports of efficacy and sense of school connectedness during remote and hybrid learning. Respondents' identification as a person of color, along with reports of higher school connectedness and self‐efficacy were positive predictors of their perceived effectiveness of remote special education service delivery. Recommendations are made for school districts to inform decisions regarding their approach to special education services and staff support during remote or hybrid learning.
S09‐13185: High‐yield soybean germplasm with elevated protein concentration
Authors: Shannon G. , Chen P. , Crisel M. , Smothers S. , Clubb M. , Vieira C. C. , Lee D. , Ali M. L. , Selves S. , Meinhardt C. G.
Published: April 2022

As the primary driver of the soybean's [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] economic value, elevated meal protein has become a desired trait in the soybean value chain. Predominantly used in animal feed, the industry has demanded elevated meal protein concentration as a standard to enhance feeding efficiency and reduce costs. Therefore, the University of Missouri–Fisher Delta Research Center soybean breeding program developed and released S09‐13185 (Reg. no. GP‐449, PI 699628), a non–genetically modified soybean germplasm with elevated soybean protein meal concentration (511 g kg–1) and superior agronomic traits. Throughout extensive yield and quality trait trials across over 40 locations in Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, and Virginia, S09‐13185 demonstrated wide adaptability and yield competitiveness against commercial checks.
A Synergistic Nano‐Zerovalent Iron‐Hydrogen Peroxide Technology for Insensitive Munitions Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Elijah Akanbi Oluwasegun , Kim Inyoung , Cha Daniel K. , Attavane Adithya A. , Hubbard Brian P. , Chiu Pei C.
Published: April 2022

The U.S. Army is phasing out legacy munitions compounds that are prone to accidental detonation and replacing them with insensitive munitions compounds (IMCs). The major IMCs, namely 3‐nitro‐1,2,4‐triazol‐5‐one (NTO), 2,4‐dinitroanisole (DNAN), and nitroguanidine (NQ), are not compatible with existing munitions wastewater treatment technologies such as granular activated carbon due to their high water solubilities. In this study, a two‐stage process employing nanoscale zero‐valent iron (nZVI) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was evaluated as a potential technology for the destructive treatment of IMC wastewater. In the first stage, nZVI rapidly and completely degraded all three IMCs and generated dissolved Fe(II). NTO and DNAN were degraded via nitro reduction to 3‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazol‐5‐one and 2,4‐diaminoanisole, respectively. In the second stage, H2O2 was added to oxidize the IMC reduction products through Fenton reaction utilizing the dissolved Fe(II) from the first stage. nZVI‐treated NTO and DNAN samples showed 66 % and 63 % TOC removal after oxidation, respectively. In contrast, NQ reduction products exhibited negligible mineralization. The results with individual IMCs were confirmed by an experiment using synthetic wastewater containing all three IMCs. This study illustrates the potential feasibility of a synergistic and destructive nZVI−H2O2 technology for treating IMC‐laden wastewaters at military facilities.
Impact of Laser‐Induced Graphitization on Diamond Schottky Barrier Diodes
Authors: Iwao Tomoki , Sittimart Phongsaphak , Yoshitake Tsuyoshi , Umezawa Hitoshi , Ohmagari Shinya
Published: April 2022

Pseudovertical Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) are fabricated on a single‐crystal diamond substrate. Herein, the structural and electrical influence of laser‐induced graphitization which takes place during the laser‐dicing process is investigated. Before laser irradiation, the fabricated SBDs show a high rectifying ratio of more than 11 orders at ±10 V and undetectable leakage current. Ideality factor (n) and Schottky barrier height (ϕ
b) are estimated to be 1.09 and 1.35 eV, respectively. After laser irradiation, the SBDs still exhibit good diode behavior, in which n and ϕ
b values slightly change by 10%. Leakage current is increased about two orders of magnitude and breakdown voltage is degraded from 940 to 375 V due to the presence of graphite debris. After removing the graphite debris utilizing the oxygen plasma cleaning process through an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) system, all SBDs are recovered back to typical diode characteristics. It is found that strain and surface defects that may be introduced during laser dicing and post‐ICP etching do not severely influence SBD characteristics.
In depth study on the fire‐extinguishing mechanism of Octafluoro‐2‐butene as a new promising Halon substitute
Authors: Yu Rourou , Hu Wenhao , Wang Xingyu , Zhang Xiao , Tan Zhaoyang
Published: April 2022

Due to the serious destruction of Halon to the ozone layer, it is significant to explore the fire‐extinguishing agent with zero ozone depletion potential (ODP). At the molecular structure level, Octafluoro‐2‐butene has a special arrangement of fluorine atoms, endowing itself with better potential to replace Halon than the reported perfluoroalkanes and hydrofluoroethylenes (HFOs). However, as a new Halon substitute, the fire‐extinguishing mechanism of Octafluoro‐2‐butene has not been studied. In this paper, the thermal decomposition and fire‐extinguishing mechanism of Octafluoro‐2‐butene were studied by density functional theory (DFT) and the rate constants of each reaction path were calculated for the first time. The calculation results show that Octafluoro‐2‐butene produces a large number of fire extinguishing groups and the rate constants of the main fire extinguishing paths are fast. Noteworthy, there is no combustion radical produced during extinguishing. In addition, the thermal decomposition of Octafluoro‐2‐butene mostly produced halogenated alkane with the better ability to react with chain radicals. The theoretical results show that Octafluoro‐2‐butene is a promising Halon substitute, and its practicability can be further studied and comprehensively evaluated.
Engineering the Morphology and Microenvironment of a Graphene‐Supported Co‐N‐C Single‐Atom Electrocatalyst for Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Huang Kang , Wei Zengxi , Liu Jianbin , Gong Zhichao , Liu Jingjing , Yan Minmin , He GuanChao , Gong Haisheng , Hu Yongfeng , He Yongmin , Zhao Shuangliang , Ye Gonglan , Fei Huilong
Published: April 2022

Graphene‐supported single‐atom catalysts (SACs) are promising alternatives to precious metals for catalyzing the technologically important hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), but their performances are limited by the low intrinsic activity and insufficient mass transport. Herein, a highly HER‐active graphene‐supported Co‐N‐C SAC is reported with unique design features in the morphology of the substrate and the microenvironment of the single metal sites: i) the crumpled and scrolled morphology of the graphene substrate circumvents the issues encountered by stacked nanoplatelets, resulting in improved exposure of the electrode/electrolyte interfaces (≈10 times enhancement); ii) the in‐plane holes in graphene preferentially orientate the Co atoms at the edge sites with low‐coordinated Co‐N3 configuration that exhibits enhanced intrinsic activity (≈2.6 times enhancement compared to the conventional Co‐N4 moiety), as evidenced by detailed experiments and density functional theory calculations. As a result, this catalyst exhibits significantly improved HER activity with an overpotential (η) of merely 82 mV at 10 mA cm−2, a small Tafel slope of 59.0 mV dec−1 and a turnover frequency of 0.81 s−1 at η = 100 mV, ranking it among the best Co‐N‐C SACs.
Characterization of cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers associated with neurodegenerative diseases in healthy cynomolgus and rhesus macaque monkeys
Authors: Robertson Emma L. , Boehnke Susan E. , Lyra e Silva Natalia de M. , Armitage‐Brown Brittney , Winterborn Andrew , Cook Douglas J. , De Felice Fernanda G. , Munoz Douglas P.
Published: April 2022

Monkeys are becoming important translational models of neurodegenerative disease. To facilitate model development, we measured cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentrations of key biomarkers in healthy male and female cynomolgus and rhesus macaques. Amyloid beta (Aβ40, Aβ42), tau (total tau [t‐tau], phosphorylated tau [pThr181]), and neurofilament light (NfL) concentrations were measured in CSF of 82 laboratory‐housed, experimentally naïve cynomolgus (n = 33) and rhesus (n = 49) macaques. Aβ40 and Aβ42 were significantly higher in rhesus, and female rhesus were higher than males. NfL and t‐tau were higher in males, and NfL was higher in rhesus macaques. p‐tau was not affected by species or sex. We also examined whether sample location (lumbar or cisterna puncture) affected concentrations. Sample acquisition site only affected NfL, which was higher in CSF from lumbar puncture compared to cisterna magna puncture. Establishing normative biomarker values for laboratory‐housed macaque monkeys provides an important resource by which to compare to monkey models of neurodegenerative diseases.
The how and why of Bayesian nonparametric causal inference
Authors: Linero Antonio R. , Antonelli Joseph L.
Published: April 2022

Spurred on by recent successes in causal inference competitions, Bayesian nonparametric (and high‐dimensional) methods have recently seen increased attention in the causal inference literature. In this article, we present a comprehensive overview of Bayesian nonparametric applications to causal inference. Our aims are to (i) introduce the fundamental Bayesian nonparametric toolkit; (ii) discuss how to determine which tool is most appropriate for a given problem; and (iii) show how to avoid common pitfalls in applying Bayesian nonparametric methods in high‐dimensional settings. Unlike standard fixed‐dimensional parametric problems, where outcome modeling alone can sometimes be effective, we argue that most of the time it is necessary to model both the selection and outcome processes.

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Analysis of High Dimensional Data

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Nonparametric Methods

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Bayesian Methods and Theory
Feeling Political by Collective Singing: Political Youth Organizations in Germany, 1920–1960
Authors: Brauer Juliane
Published: April 2022

This chapter explores the culture of singing in youth organizations, a seemingly non-political institution, which, through its capacity to create a community, was used for spreading political feelings and messages. Communal singing was one of the main practices in youth organizations of the twentieth century. Singing specific songs made it possible for young people to learn political emotions and attitudes. Singing in a community could convey desired values, attitudes, and emotions and, ideally, harmonize them. The song Wann wir schreiten Seit’ an Seit’ (When we stride side by side, 1913) was the most important song of the social democratic youth movement in the 1920s, subsequently adapted and modified by the Hitler Youth during the National Socialist era, and later sung by youth organizations in both Germanies. Its history shows how the repeated, communal singing of certain songs, even in very different contexts, could establish political emotions such as hope for a better future.
Feeling Political in Military Cemeteries: Commemoration Politics in Fascist Italy
Authors: Malone Hannah
Published: April 2022

This chapter explores how Mussolini’s Fascist regime politicized the remembrance of the First World War by linking a narrative of heroism to specific notions of grief. It reveals that, given the scale of Italy’s losses in the war, commemoration of the fallen was a highly emotional issue, which provided the regime with a powerful means of political communication. As the Fascist authorities sought to exploit feelings towards the dead for the purpose of mobilizing the Italian population, emotions came to define the political agenda. In seeking a high degree of emotional control, the Italian dictatorship elaborated strategies of manipulation that were later imitated by other authoritarian powers, including Hitler’s Germany and Franco’s Spain. Ossuaries from the time offer evidence of the political intentions of the Fascist regime and the emotional responses that visitors were meant to feel. Architecture and its surrounding discourse thus acted as carriers of emotional messages with political intent.
Feeling Political Through a Football Club: FC Schalke 04, 1904–2020
Authors: Wambach Julia
Published: April 2022

This chapter examines mourning practices on the basis of the German football club FC Schalke 04. This club, it argues, derives its current image and emotional templates from the mourning practices marking the end of coal mining in the region. Throughout the twentieth century, Schalke repeatedly became involved in participatory politics, despite its allegedly apolitical nature as a leisure club. Governments, political parties, and local magistrates sought to use Schalke fans’ emotional relationship with the club for their own ends. Because of its capacity to unite people in times of crisis, the club itself developed into a significant political player in its home city of Gelsenkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, during the crises of deindustrialization in the mid-1990s.
Cost-Effective Cassava Processing: Case Study of Small-Scale Flash-Dryer Reengineering
Authors: Tran Thierry , Abass Adebayo , Andrade Luis Alejandro Taborda , Chapuis Arnaud , Precoppe Marcelo , Adinsi Laurent , Bouniol Alexandre , Ojide Makuachukwu , Adegbite Suraju Adeyemi , Lukombo Simon Singi , Sartas Murat , Teeken Béla , Kuate Apollin Fotso , Ndjouenkeu Robert , Moreno Martín , Belalcázar John , López-Lavalle Luis Augusto Becerra , Dufour Dominique
Published: April 2022

The development and scaling out of flash-dryer innovations for more efficient, small-scale production of high-quality cassava flour (HQCF) and starch is described. The diagnoses of cassava-processing SMEs (small and medium enterprises) revealed their energy expenditures for drying were considerably higher than those of large-scale industrial companies, which was mostly due to suboptimal design of flash-drying systems. As a result, small-scale production of cassava starch and HQCF often incurs high production costs, incompatible with market prices of final products. Taking stock of this situation, RTB scientists have developed several innovations to optimize energy efficiency and costs, including a longer drying pipe, reengineered heat exchanger, larger blower for higher air velocity, and a higher product/air ratio. This was based on numerical modelling to determine the key design features of energy-efficient flash dryers, followed by construction and demonstration of a pilot-scale prototype. As a result, improved small-scale flash dryers are now being scaled out to the private sector in various countries, using the Scaling Readiness framework and achieving 10–15% gains in productivity and incomes. A method for diagnosis of process efficiency is also described, to identify technical bottlenecks and to document and measure the outcomes and impacts during the implementation of scaling-out projects.
Orange-Fleshed Sweetpotato Puree: A Breakthrough Product for the Bakery Sector in Africa
Authors: Moyo Mukani , Truong Van-Den , Simunovic Josip , Pankuku Jean , Abong George Ooko , Amagloh Francis Kweku , Fuchs Richard , Magnaghi Antonio , Rajendran Srinivasulu , Grant Fredrick , Muzhingi Tawanda
Published: April 2022

Replacing some of the wheat flour in breads and pastries with OFSP (orange-fleshed sweetpotato) puree can increase the market demand for these nutritious varieties and would offer economic opportunities for smallholders, including women and youths. The technology to make sweetpotato puree has been well developed in industrialized countries since the 1960s. Techniques fine-tuned by RTB allow OFSP puree to be stored in plastic bags for 6 months, without refrigeration. Private companies in Malawi and Kenya are now manufacturing the puree and selling it to bakeries that substitute OFSP puree for up to 40% of the white wheat flour in bread and other baked goods. Consumers like the bread that is sold in supermarkets and bakeries. Food safety protocols ensure that the puree is part of safe, healthy products. The OFSP seed is available to smallholder farmers, who are linked with processors who buy the roots. Business models suggest that processing puree is profitable. The Scaling Readiness approach is helping to ensure that more farmers, processors, and consumers benefit from OFSP.
Heavy long-lived coannihilation partner from inelastic Dark Matter model and its signatures at the LHC
Authors: Guo Jinhui , He Yuxuan , Liu Jia , Wang Xiao-Ping
Published: April 2022

Abstract

The coannihilation mechanism is a well-motivated alternative to the simple thermal freeze-out mechanism, where the dark matter relic density can be obtained through the coannihilation with a partner particle of similar mass with dark matter. When the partner particle is neutral, the inelastic nature of dark matter can help it to escape the direct detection limits. In this work, we focus on the coannihilation scenario in which the annihilation cross section is dominated by the partner-partner pair annihilation. We pay special interest on the parameter space where the coannihilation partner is long-lived, which leads to displaced signatures at the collider. In such case, it opens the heavy mass parameter space for the coannihilation dark matter, comparing with those dominated by the partner-dark matter annihilation. Specifically, we study an inelastic scalar dark matter model with a specific parameter space, which realizes the domination of partner-partner pair annihilation. Then, we study two different realizations of the coannihilation partner decay and the existing constraints from the relic abundance, direct and indirect dark matter detection and the collider searches. We focus on the channel that the long-lived coannihilation partner decays to dark matter plus leptons. The high-luminosity LHC can reach good sensitivities for such heavy dark matter and coannihilation partner around 100–700 GeV.