bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of magnetite@MIL‐53(Fe)‐NH‐CS2 via postsynthetic modification for extraction/separation of ultra‐trace Hg (II) from some real samples and its subsequent quantification by CVAAS
Authors: Veisi Behzad , Lorestani Bahareh , Ardakani Soheil Sobhan , Cheraghi Mehrdad , Tayebi Lima
Published: July 2021

Herein, at first, a magnetite@MIL‐53(Fe)‐NH2 core‐shell nanocomposite was fabricated and then modified via postsynthetic modification by dithiocarbamate moieties to obtain a magnetite@MIL‐53(Fe)‐NH‐CS2 nano‐adsorbent. The constructed material was used for extraction/separation of ultra‐trace Hg (II) from seawater, river water, and fish samples, and then the enriched mercury was quantified by CVAAS instrument. Characterization of magnetite@MIL‐53(Fe)‐NH‐CS2 nano‐adsorbent was carried out by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction analysis, CHNS analysis, FT‐IR spectroscopy, and magnetometry. Optimization of the affecting variables was conducted via the design of experiment methodology. After that, adsorption isotherms and kinetic studies were carried out. The experimental data were well fitted to the Langmuir and pseudo second‐order kinetic models for adsorption study and kinetic study, respectively. Accordingly, a maximum adsorption capacity and a Langmuir constant (KL) of 250 mg g−1 and 0.102 L mg−1 were obtained, respectively. The LOD and linearity of the preconcentration method were 0.006 ng ml−1 and 0.02–50 ng ml−1 (r2 = 0.9945), respectively. A very high preconcentration factor equal to 300 was attained after optimization. The accuracy of the current method was proved by analyzing IAEA‐436 (Tuna fish flesh homogenate, AQCS) certified reference material. Finally, the current extraction/separation method was employed to the extraction and quantification of ultra‐trace amounts of mercury ions in seawater, river water, and fish samples.
Chironomid larvae destroy cultivated microbial mat in protected Adriatic salterns
Authors: Juteršek Mojca , Dolinar Marko
Published: July 2021

The Sečovlje salterns on the Northern Adriatic coastline encompass both active and abandoned salt pans on the estuary of the Dragonja River. They are protected as a nature park by a governmental decree and by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance.

In the Sečovlje salterns, salt is still gathered according to a traditional process originating from the 14th century. The high quality of the traditionally produced salt is attributed to a cultivated microbial mat (called ‘petola’) that covers the floor of the crystallization basins and provides a barrier from the anoxic mud. Every spring, in a process called ‘fertilization’, the microbial mat is covered by a layer of mud, a practice that is supposedly crucial for the maintenance of the petola, but its exact role and underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood.

In early spring 2018 the microbial mat, primarily composed of the filamentous cyanobacterium Coleofasciculus chthonoplastes, was infested by dipteran larvae, which occurred at densities of up to 20,000 m−2. Based on the morphological features of the larvae and imagos, and on DNA analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene, the newly identified pest was determined to be a chironomid. Under laboratory conditions, larvae fed upon the cyanobacterial mat and destroyed its structure.

In the laboratory, the application of a thin layer of saltern mud in a manner typical for the salt production process prevented the development of chironomid larvae and maintained the structure of the microbial mat. In the salterns, omitting the fertilization step resulted in a considerable weakening of the petola layer.

The results reveal the possible biological background for the fertilization process and thus provides important knowledge for the conservation of the traditional man‐made aquatic ecosystem of the Sečovlje salterns.
Gilparrka Almira, a rock art site in Mithaka Country, southwest Queensland: cultural connections, dreaming tracks and trade routes
Authors: Franklin Natalie R. , Giorgi Marisa , Habgood Phillip J. , Wright Nathan , Gorringe Josh , Gorringe Betty , Gorringe Brett , Westaway Michael C.
Published: July 2021

This paper describes a rock engraving site in Mithaka Country in the Channel Country, southwest Queensland, where the majority of the motifs consist of crescents or variations on crescents. This is the first rock art site to be recorded in Mithaka Country, which is in a part of Australia's sandy deserts where rock art is uncommon.

Gilparrka Almira is placed within a broader social context by exploring its possible cultural connections with other sites and regions. Regional comparisons of the main motif type found that proportions decreased in all directions away from the site. Possible meanings for crescent imagery are then examined from ethnohistorical sources, indicating that crescent motifs may bear a range of “discontinuous” meanings that can be used in different contexts. It is suggested that crescent motifs may have moved/diffused across vast areas of the continent, following the north‐south Lake Eyre Basin trade network, with Mithaka Country lying at its approximate centre, and other (east‐west) trade routes, along the Dreaming tracks with which the trade routes are frequently associated. Motifs with “discontinuous” meaning ranges, like crescents, would have been particularly suitable for use in this scenario because of their ability to be readily incorporated into different social contexts.
Frequency Domain Electromagnetic mapping for delineating subsurface structures related to the historical port of Emporiae
Authors: Casas Albert , Castanyer Pere , Himi Mahjoub , Lovera Raul , Rivero Lluís , Santos Marta , Tremoleda Joaquim , Sendrós Alexandre , García‐Artigas Rubén , Urruela Aritz
Published: July 2021

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the application of geophysical methods to reconstruct the palaeo‐landscapes of sites of special historical interest in support of the planning of archaeological researches. Given the extent of the surface to be investigated, electromagnetic methods have proven to be very suitable for their speed, resolution and versatility for this objective. In particular, coastal areas of the Mediterranean have undergone significant changes in the position of the coastline, because of changes in sea level and sediment inputs that have covered natural harbours used for the establishing colonies.

In this paper, we present the results of a geophysical survey conducted using frequency‐domain electromagnetic (FDEM) method carried out to get the geometry of a coastal area near to Emporiae (NE, Spain), which was supposed to form a natural port that was used by Greeks and Romans for its first colonial settlements on the Iberian Peninsula. The results obtained from a dense network of apparent conductivity measurements, supported punctually by other geophysical data (VES and ERT) and boreholes, has allowed us to define the geometry of the basin and confirm the hypotheses of the existence of harbour buried under the coastal and alluvial sediments in the bay close to the remains from Greek and Roman times.
2021 American College of Rheumatology/Vasculitis Foundation Guideline for the Management of Giant Cell Arteritis and Takayasu Arteritis
Authors: Maz Mehrdad , Chung Sharon A. , Abril Andy , Langford Carol A. , Gorelik Mark , Guyatt Gordon , Archer Amy M. , Conn Doyt L. , Full Kathy A. , Grayson Peter C. , Ibarra Maria F. , Imundo Lisa F. , Kim Susan , Merkel Peter A. , Rhee Rennie L. , Seo Philip , Stone John H. , Sule Sangeeta , Sundel Robert P. , Vitobaldi Omar I. , Warner Ann , Byram Kevin , Dua Anisha B. , Husainat Nedaa , James Karen E. , Kalot Mohamad A. , Lin Yih Chang , Springer Jason M. , Turgunbaev Marat , Villa‐Forte Alexandra , Turner Amy S. , Mustafa Reem A.
Published: July 2021

Objective

To provide evidence‐based recommendations and expert guidance for the management of giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu arteritis (TAK) as exemplars of large vessel vasculitis.

Methods

Clinical questions regarding diagnostic testing, treatment, and management were developed in the population, intervention, comparator, and outcome (PICO) format for GCA and TAK (27 for GCA, 27 for TAK). Systematic literature reviews were conducted for each PICO question. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology was used to rate the quality of the evidence. Recommendations were developed by the Voting Panel, comprising adult and pediatric rheumatologists and patients. Each recommendation required ≥70% consensus among the Voting Panel.

Results

We present 22 recommendations and 2 ungraded position statements for GCA, and 20 recommendations and 1 ungraded position statement for TAK. These recommendations and statements address clinical questions relating to the use of diagnostic testing, including imaging, treatments, and surgical interventions in GCA and TAK. Recommendations for GCA include support for the use of glucocorticoid‐sparing immunosuppressive agents and the use of imaging to identify large vessel involvement. Recommendations for TAK include the use of nonglucocorticoid immunosuppressive agents with glucocorticoids as initial therapy. There were only 2 strong recommendations; the remaining recommendations were conditional due to the low quality of evidence available for most PICO questions.

Conclusion

These recommendations provide guidance regarding the evaluation and management of patients with GCA and TAK, including diagnostic strategies, use of pharmacologic agents, and surgical interventions.
Earth‐abundant Metal‐catalyzed Reductive Amination: Recent Advances and Prospect for Future Catalysis
Authors: Liu Jianguo , Song Yanpei , Ma Longlong
Published: July 2021

Nitrogen‐containing compounds, as an important class of chemicals, have been used widely in pharmaceuticals, materials synthesis. Transition metal‐catalyzed reductive amination of an aldehyde or a ketone with ammonia or an amine has been proved to be an efficient and practical method for the preparation of nitrogen‐containing compounds in academia and industry for a century. Given the above, several effective methods using transition metals have been developed in recent years. Noble transition metals like Pd, Pt, and Au‐based catalysts have been predominately used in reductive amination. Because of their high prices, strict official regulations of residues in pharmaceuticals, and deleterious effects on the biological system, their industrial applications are severely hampered. With the increasing sustainable and environmental problems, the Earth‐abundant transition metals including Ti, Fe, Co, Ni, and Zr have also been investigated for the reductive amination reaction and showed great potential to the advancement of sustainable and cost‐effective reductive amination processes. This critical review will mainly summarize the work using Earth‐abundant metals. The effects of different transition metals used in catalytic reduction amination were discussed and compared, and some suggestions were given. The last section highlights the catalytic activities of bi‐ and tri‐metallic catalysts. Indeed, this latter family is very promising and simultaneously benefits from increased stability, and selectivity, compared to monometallic NPs, due to synergistic substrate activation. Few comprehensive reviews focusing on Earth‐abundant transition metals catalyst has been published since 1948, although several authors reported some summaries dealing with one or the other part of this aspect. It is hoped that this critical review will inspire researchers to develop new efficient and selective earth‐abundant metal catalysts for highly, environmentally sustainable reductive amination methods, as well as improve the pharmaceutical industry and related chemical synthesis company traditional method with the utilization of the green method widely.
Event‐triggered adaptive output‐feedback control for nonlinear state‐constrained systems using tangent‐type nonlinear mapping
Authors: Wei Yan , Zhou Pingfang , Xie Weicheng , Tang Jiwei , Duan Dengping
Published: July 2021

This paper investigates the problem of event‐triggered adaptive output‐feedback control for multi‐input and multi‐output (MIMO) uncertain nonlinear systems with time‐varying full state constraints. A tangent‐type nonlinear mapping function is proposed to transform the state‐constrained system into a new one free of constraints, such that the time‐varying full state constraints are never violated. Radial basis function neural networks are introduced to compensate for the unknown functions. A state observer is established to estimate the unmeasured states. A suitable event‐triggering rule is presented to determine when to transmit control laws. Through Lyapunov analyses, all closed‐loop signals are proved to be semiglobally uniformly ultimately bounded, and time‐varying full state constraints are never violated. Finally, simulations are presented to evaluate the efficacy of the proposed approach.
Non‐fragile H∞ observer for Lipschitz conformable fractional‐order systems
Authors: Naifar Omar , Jmal Assaad , Ben Makhlouf Abdellatif
Published: July 2021

The issue of designing simultaneously robust and non‐fragile observers for the classical integer‐order systems has been widely investigated in the literature. Yet, there are just some few works that have tackled the same problem for non‐integer‐order systems. Moreover, the conformable derivative is an interesting concept that has been introduced by some researchers in the last decade. This new derivative presents some advantageous mathematical properties, compared with older concepts. In this paper, and motivated by these facts, the authors suggest a first scheme to design observers, which are simultaneously robust and non‐fragile, for Lipschitz nonlinear conformable fractional‐order systems. The H∞ performance theory is used for that purpose. The efficiency of the developed approach is confirmed through simulations for a numerical example.
Boundary output feedback stabilization for spacial multi‐dimensional coupled fractional reaction–diffusion systems
Authors: Cai Rui‐Yang , Zhou Hua‐Cheng , Fan Xue‐Ru , Kou Chun‐Hai
Published: July 2021

This paper studies the boundary feedback stabilization for spacial multi‐dimensional coupled fractional reaction–diffusion systems with non‐collocated or collocated outputs in the case that the system state is unmeasurable. By employing the backstepping method, we introduce a target system and analyze its Mittag–Leffler stability. For each pair of sides of the region boundary, assuming that system state is hinged on one side, while the controller is designed on the opposite side. These boundary controllers work together to achieve the state feedback Mittag–Leffler stabilization of the considered system. In addition, for both kinds of outputs, feedback controllers are also established to achieve the asymptotical stability of the corresponding closed‐loop system. Two numerical experiments are carried out to illustrate our results.
Immunomodulatory effects of phytosomal curcumin on related‐micro RNAs, CD200 expression and inflammatory pathways in dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Ayadilord Malaksima , Nasseri Saeed , Emadian Razavi Fariba , Saharkhiz Mansoore , Rostami Zeinab , Naseri Mohsen
Published: July 2021

Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) have significant potential of immunomodulatory for therapeutic and regenerative biomedical applications compared to other mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Nowadays, alteration of gene expression is an important way to improve the performance of MSCs in the clinic. MicroRNAs (miRs) and CD200 are known to modulate the immune system in MSCs. Curcumin is famous for its anti‐inflammatory impacts. Phytosomal curcumin (PC) is a nanoparticle synthesized from curcumin that removes the drawbacks of curcumin. The purpose of this research was to assess the effects of PC on the expression of the CD200 and four key miRNAs in immune system. PC (30 μM) treatment of hDPSCs could ameliorate their immunoregulatory property, presented by reduced expressions of miR‐21, miR‐155 and miR‐126, as well as enhanced expressions of miR‐23 and CD200. The PC was also able to reduce PI3K\AKT1\NF‐κB expressions that were target genes for these miRs and involved in inflammatory pathways. Moreover, PC was more effective than curcumin in improving the immune modulation of hDPSCs. Evidence in this study suggested that PC mediates immunoregulatory activities in hDPSC via miRs and CD200 to regulate PI3K\AKT1\NF‐κB signalling pathways, which may provide a theoretical basis for PC in the treatment of many diseases.

Significance of the study

Autoimmune diseases or tooth caries are partly attributed to global health problems and their common drug treatments have several side effects. The goal of this study is dentin regeneration and autoimmune diseases treatment via stem cell‐based approaches with phytosomal curcumin (PC), for the first time. Because dental pulp stem cells have unique advantages (including higher immunomodulatory capacity) over other mesenchymal stem cells, we considered them the best option for treating these diseases. Using PC, we try to increase the immunomodulatory properties of these cells.
Pd‐Catalysed Decarbonylation Free Approach to Carbonylative Esterification of 5‐HMF to Its Aryl Esters Synthesis Using Aryl Halides and Oxalic Acid as C1 Source
Authors: Singh Chauhan Arvind , Kumar Ajay , Kumar Sharma Ajay , Das Pralay
Published: July 2021

A decarbonylation free, polystyrene‐supported, Pd (Pd@PS)‐catalysed carbonylative esterification of the hydroxy group of 5‐hydroxymethyl furfural (5‐HMF) to its corresponding aryl esters has been developed. The use of Pd@PS, oxalic acid as CO source, and aryl halides was first explored for the aryl ester of 5‐HMF synthesis. Here, we investigated the vital role of a polystyrene support to avoid the commonly known decarbonylation of 5‐HMF. The reaction exhibits vast substrate scope with comparably good yield and catalyst recyclability.
NIR‐Emissive Chromium(0), Molybdenum(0), and Tungsten(0) Complexes in the Solid State at Room Temperature
Authors: Boden Pit , Di Martino‐Fumo Patrick , Bens Tobias , Steiger Sophie , Albold Uta , Niedner‐Schatteburg Gereon , Gerhards Markus , Sarkar Biprajit
Published: July 2021

The development of NIR emitters based on earth‐abundant elements is an important goal in contemporary science. We present here Cr(0), Mo(0), and W(0) carbonyl complexes with a pyridyl‐mesoionic carbene (MIC) based ligand. A detailed photophysical investigation shows that all the complexes exhibit dual emissions in the VIS and in the NIR region. The emissive excited states are assigned to two distinct triplet states by time‐resolved emission and step‐scan FTIR spectroscopy at variable temperature, supported by density functional theory. In particular, the NIR emissive triplet state exhibits unprecedented lifetimes of up to 600±10 ns and quantum yields reaching 1.7 ⋅ 10−4 at room temperature. These are the first examples of Cr(0), Mo(0) and W(0) complexes that emit in the NIR II region.
A High Selective Chemiluminescent Probe Derived fromIso‐luminol Enabling High Sensitive Determination of Ferrous Ions in the Environmental Waters
Authors: Zhang Shenghai , Shi Yalin , Deng Jiawang , Zhang Jidong , Cheng Mengqi , Yu Geting
Published: July 2021

Main observation and conclusion

A new chemiluminescence (CL) reagent named 4‐amino‐5‐thiocyanato‐phthalyl‐hydrazine (iso‐luminol‐SCN) is synthesized by the bromide‐mediated substitution reaction ofiso‐luminol with sodium thiocyanate in dimethyl formamide (DMF) at room temperature. Strong CL is observed foriso‐luminol‐SCN oxidized by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in the presence of Fe2+, with the CL intensity strongly depending on the concentration of Fe2+and being hardly interferred by other common metal ions. Based on this fact, a flow injection CL method is established for the high sensitive and selective determination of Fe2+. The CL intensity was linearly correlated with the concentration of Fe2+in the range of 1.0 × 10–8mol·L–1to 1.0 × 10–5mol·L–1following the equation CLnet= 166.3c+ 57.7 (c, ×10–6mol·L–1;n= 7;R2= 0.9988). The detection limit is calculated to be 3.2 × 10–9mol·L–1Fe2+based on the 3S0/K principle. The relative standard deviation (RSD) was 3.7% for 1.0 × 10–6mol·L–1Fe2+(n= 11), a support for the precision of Fe2+measurement. The recoveries of Fe2+were obtained in the range of 98.8%—101.6% in three real water samples, showing the applicability and reliability by the proposed method. The possible CL mechanism is proposed based on the kinetic characteristic of the CL reaction and the CL spectrum.
Dinitrophenol‐Hyaluronan Conjugates as Multivalent Antibody‐Recruiting Glycopolymers for Targeted Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Lin Han , Zhou Kun , Li Dan , Hong Haofei , Xie Yuntian , Gong Liang , Shen Yu , Zhou Zhifang , Shi Jie , Wu Zhimeng
Published: July 2021

Multivalent antibody‐recruiting glycopolymers (MARGs) composed of hyaluronic acid (HA) grafted with multiple copies of dinitrophenol (DNP) were developed for targeted cancer immunotherapy. Structure‐activity studies demonstrated that the MARGs were able to specifically recognize CD44‐positive cancer cells and displayed remarkable antibody‐recruiting capacities and tumor cell killing activities dependent on the introduced multivalent effect and the length of PEG linker. One of the MARGs, HA‐[PEG3‐DNP]8, showed the best capacity for clustering anti‐DNP antibodies onto CD44‐positive cancer cells and displayed potent in vitro anti‐cancer activity by triggering complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) and antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). Moreover, we found that HA‐[PEG3‐DNP]8 significantly inhibited the xenograft tumor growth of Babl/c nude mice bearing triple negative breast cancer cells, while it did not cause detectable histological cytotoxicity. Given the easy access of this type of natural glycopolymer and the practical synthesis approach, these MARGs provide promising immunotherapeutics for cancer immunotherapy.
Associations between geographic residence and US adolescent and young adult cancer stage and survival
Authors: Johnson Kimberly J. , Wang Xiaoyan , Barnes Justin M. , Delavar Arash
Published: July 2021

Background

Multiple studies have indicated that place of residence can influence cancer survival; however, few studies have specifically focused on geographic factors and outcomes in adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer. The objective of this study was to evaluate evidence for geographic disparities in cancer diagnosis stage and overall survival in AYAs and to examine whether stage mediated survival associations.

Methods

National Cancer Database data on AYAs aged 15 to 39 years who were diagnosed with cancer from 2010 to 2014 were obtained. Residence in Metropolitan (metro), urban, or rural counties at the time of diagnosis was defined using Rural‐Urban Continuum Codes. Distance between the patient's residence and the reporting hospital was classified as short (≤2.5 miles), intermediate (>12.5 to <50 miles), or long (≥50 miles). Logistic and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used for analyses.

Results

The stage and survival analyses included 146,418 and 178,688 AYAs, respectively. The odds of a late versus early stage at diagnosis (stages III and IV vs I and II) were 1.16 (95% CI, 1.05‐1.29) times greater for AYAs living in rural versus metro counties and 1.20 (95% CI, 1.16‐1.25) times greater for AYAs living at long versus short distances to the reporting hospital. The hazard of death was 1.17 (95% CI, 1.05‐1.31) and 1.30 (95% CI, 1.25‐1.36) times greater for those living in rural versus metro counties, respectively, and for long versus short distances to the reporting hospital, respectively. Disease stage mediated 54% and 31% of the associations between metro, urban, or rural residence and residential distance categories and survival.

Conclusions

Rural residence and living long distances from the reporting hospital were associated with later stage diagnoses and lower survival in AYAs with cancer. Further research is needed to understand mechanisms.

Lay Summary

Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer are a vulnerable population because cancer is of low suspicion in this population and may not be diagnosed in a timely manner.

The authors evaluated evidence for geographic disparities in cancer stage at diagnosis and survival in the AYA population.

The findings indicate that AYAs living in rural versus metropolitan US counties and those living farther from the diagnosis reporting hospital are more likely to be diagnosed at a later cancer stage, when it is generally less treatable, and have lower survival compared with AYAs living in metropolitan counties.
Axonal injury alters the extracellular glial environment of the axon initial segment and allows substantial mitochondrial influx into axon initial segment
Authors: Tamada Hiromi , Kiryu‐Seo Sumiko , Sawada Sohgo , Kiyama Hiroshi
Published: July 2021

The axon initial segment (AIS) is structurally and functionally distinct from other regions of the axon, yet alterations in the milieu of the AIS after brain injury have not been well characterized. In this study, we have examined extracellular and intracellular changes in the AIS after hypoglossal nerve injury. Microglial adhesions to the AIS were rarely observed in healthy controls, whereas microglial adhesions to the AIS became apparent in the axonal injury model. Regarding intra‐AIS morphology, we focused on mitochondria because mitochondrial flow into the injured axon appears critical for axonal regeneration. To visualize mitochondria specifically in injured axons, we used Atf3:BAC transgenic mice whose mitochondria were labeled with GFP in response to nerve injury. These mice clearly showed mitochondrial localization in the AIS after nerve injury. To precisely confirm the light microscopic observations, we performed three‐dimensional ultrastructural analysis using focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM). Although the healthy AIS was not surrounded by microglia, tight microglial adhesions with thick processes adhering to the AIS were observed after injury. FIB/SEM simultaneously allowed the observation of mitochondrial localization in the AIS. In the AIS of non‐injured neurons, few mitochondria were observed, whereas mitochondria were abundantly localized in the cell body, axon hillock, and axon. Intriguingly, in the injured AIS, numerous mitochondria were observed throughout the AIS. Taken together, axonal injury changes the extracellular glial environment surrounding the AIS and intracellular mitochondrial localization in the AIS. These changes would be crucial responses, perhaps for injured neurons to regenerate after axonal injury.
A Parallel Direct‐Vertical Map Reduce Programming model for an effective frequent pattern mining in a dispersed environment
Authors: Yamuna Devi N
Published: July 2021

Data mining methods face various problems when extracting the data analysis process. These problems are solved based on the frequent pattern mining (FPM). In the data mining area, the frequent pattern (FP) extraction is a dominant embassy while processing the databases. Despite the fact that it has proven its importance in various mining provinces, the consistent research work of researchers has provided numerous efforts in this environment through substantial innovations. Based on the expected challenges of pattern mining, the time and memory consumption while mining the hidden FP increases over time by the conventional FPM approaches. This article proposes a Parallel Direct‐Vertical Map Reduce Programming model to effectively extract the FPM in a dispersed environment and analyzed using the Sales transaction dataset as UCI Machine Learning Repository. The proposed model has two phases of working, namely, (i) mapping and (ii) reduction. Here, the proposed Parallel Direct‐Vertical method is utilized while mapping. The parallelism of the proposed model is implemented and executed based on the number of clusters of databases in architecture‐based software and its final outcome shows that the proposed model is more efficient than the existing methods.
Grief‐related beliefs in shidu parents with and without prolonged grief disorder: Psychometric properties of a Chinese version of the Typical Beliefs Questionnaire
Authors: Xu Xin , Wen Jun , Skritskaya Natalia A. , Zou Xinyan , Mauro Christine , Wang Jianping , Shear M. Katherine
Published: July 2021

The Typical Beliefs Questionnaire (TBQ) assesses common grief‐related cognitions, which demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties in a treatment‐seeking sample with prolonged grief disorder (PGD). Chinese shidu parents (bereaved parents over the age of 49 who have lost their only child) are at a high risk of PGD. The current study aimed to examine psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the TBQ (TBQ‐C) in a community sample of shidu parents with and without PGD, to compare this to the original validation clinical sample in the United States bereaved of any close relationship and to consider its use as a clinical tool. We examined the rate of positive endorsement, factor structure, internal consistency and validity of the TBQ‐C in 310 community‐based shidu parents (including 102 who met the criteria for PGD). Results showed that the rate of positive endorsement for each item ranged from 7.2% to 48.6% among non‐PGD participants and from 20.6% to 92.2% among PGD participants. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the original five‐factor structure fit both the non‐PGD and PGD shidu parents. The TBQ‐C showed acceptable internal consistency and satisfactory convergent and concurrent validity in both groups. It had good discriminant validity and can be helpful in distinguishing shidu parents with and without PGD. The TBQ‐C can be used to investigate common grief‐related beliefs that may be problematic for both shidu parents with and without PGD.
Root morphological responses to population density vary with soil conditions and growth stages: The complexity of density effects
Authors: Wang Shu , Li Lei , Zhou Dao‐Wei
Published: July 2021

Aim

How plants cope with increases in population density via root plasticity is not well documented, although abiotic environments and plant ontogeny may have important roles in determining root response to density. To investigate how plant root plasticity in response to density varies with soil conditions and growth stages, we conducted a field experiment with an annual herbaceous species (Abutilon theophrasti).

Methods

Plants were grown at low, medium, and high densities (13.4, 36.0, and 121.0 plants m−2, respectively), under fertile and infertile soil conditions, and a series of root traits were measured after 30, 50, and 70 days.

Results

Root allocation increased, decreased, or canalized in response to density, depending on soil conditions and stages of plant growth, indicating the complex effects of population density, including both competitive and facilitative effects.

Main conclusions

Root allocation was promoted by neighbor roots at early stages and in abundant resource availability, due to low‐to‐moderate belowground interactions among smaller plants, leading to facilitation. As plants grew, competition intensified and infertile soil aggravated belowground competition, leading to decreased root allocation in response to density. Root growth may be more likely restricted horizontally rather than vertically by the presence of neighbor, suggesting a spatial orientation effect in their responses to density. We emphasized the importance of considering effects of abiotic conditions and plant growth stages in elucidating the complexity of density effects on root traits.
Plastic responses to hot temperatures homogenize riparian leaf litter, speed decomposition, and reduce detritivores
Authors: Jeplawy Joann R. , Cooper Hillary F. , Marks Jane , Lindroth Richard L. , Andrews Morgan I. , Compson Zacchaeus G. , Gehring Catherine , Hultine Kevin R. , Grady Kevin , Whitham Thomas G. , Allan Gerard J. , Best Rebecca J.
Published: July 2021

Efforts to maintain the function of critical ecosystems under climate change often begin with foundation species. In the southwestern United States, cottonwood trees support diverse communities in riparian ecosystems that are threatened by rising temperatures. Genetic variation within cottonwoods shapes communities and ecosystems, but these effects may be modified by phenotypic plasticity, where genotype traits change in response to environmental conditions. Here, we investigated plasticity in Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii) leaf litter traits as well as the consequences of plasticity for riparian ecosystems. We used three common gardens each planted with genotypes from six genetically divergent populations spanning a 12°C temperature gradient, and a decomposition experiment in a common stream environment. We found that leaf litter area, specific leaf area, and carbon to nitrogen ratio (C:N) were determined by interactions between genetics and growing environment, as was the subsequent rate of litter decomposition. Most of the genetic variation in leaf litter traits appeared among rather than within source populations with distinct climate histories. Source populations from hotter climates generally produced litter that decomposed more quickly, but plasticity varied the magnitude of this effect. We also found that hotter growing conditions reduced the variation in litter traits produced across genotypes, homogenizing the litter inputs to riparian ecosystems. All genotypes in the hottest garden produced comparatively small leaves that decomposed quickly and supported lower abundances of aquatic invertebrates, whereas the same genotypes in the coldest garden produced litter with distinct morphologies and decomposition rates. Our results suggest that plastic responses to climate stress may constrict the expression of genetic variation in predictable ways that impact communities and ecosystems. Understanding these interactions between genetic and environmental variation is critical to our ability to plan for the role of foundation species when managing and restoring riparian ecosystems in a warming world.
The prognostic value of serial troponin measurements in patients admitted for COVID‐19
Authors: Nuzzi Vincenzo , Merlo Marco , Specchia Claudia , Lombardi Carlo Mario , Carubelli Valentina , Iorio Annamaria , Inciardi Riccardo Maria , Bellasi Antonio , Canale Claudia , Camporotondo Rita , Catagnano Francesco , Dalla Vecchia Laura Adelaide , Giovinazzo Stefano , Maccagni Gloria , Mapelli Massimo , Margonato Davide , Monzo Luca , Oriecuia Chiara , Peveri Giulia , Pozzi Andrea , Provenzale Giovanni , Sarullo Filippo , Tomasoni Daniela , Ameri Pietro , Gnecchi Massimiliano , Leonardi Sergio , Agostoni Piergiuseppe , Carugo Stefano , Danzi Gian Battista , Guazzi Marco , La Rovere Maria Teresa , Mortara Andrea , Piepoli Massimo , Porto Italo , Volterrani Maurizio , Senni Michele , Metra Marco , Sinagra Gianfranco
Published: July 2021

Aims

Myocardial injury (MI) in coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19) is quite prevalent at admission and affects prognosis. Little is known about troponin trajectories and their prognostic role. We aimed to describe the early in‐hospital evolution of MI and its prognostic impact.

Methods and results

We performed an analysis from an Italian multicentre study enrolling COVID‐19 patients, hospitalized from 1 March to 9 April 2020. MI was defined as increased troponin level. The first troponin was tested within 24 h from admission, the second one between 24 and 48 h. Elevated troponin was defined as values above the 99th percentile of normal values. Patients were divided in four groups: normal, normal then elevated, elevated then normal, and elevated. The outcome was in‐hospital death. The study population included 197 patients; 41% had normal troponin at both evaluations, 44% had elevated troponin at both assessments, 8% had normal then elevated troponin, and 7% had elevated then normal troponin. During hospitalization, 49 (25%) patients died. Patients with incident MI, with persistent MI, and with MI only at admission had a higher risk of death compared with those with normal troponin at both evaluations (P < 0.001). At multivariable analysis, patients with normal troponin at admission and MI injury on Day 2 had the highest mortality risk (hazard ratio 3.78, 95% confidence interval 1.10–13.09, P = 0.035).

Conclusions

In patients admitted for COVID‐19, re‐test MI on Day 2 provides a prognostic value. A non‐negligible proportion of patients with incident MI on Day 2 is identified at high risk of death only by the second measurement.
Half‐Sandwich Nickel(II) NHC‐Picolyl Complexes as Catalysts for the Hydrosilylation of Carbonyl Compounds: Evidence for NHC‐Nickel Nanoparticles under Harsh Reaction Conditions
Authors: Ulm Franck , Shahane Saurabh , Truong‐Phuoc Lai , Romero Thierry , Papaefthimiou Vasiliki , Chessé Matthieu , Chetcuti Michael J. , Pham‐Huu Cuong , Michon Christophe , Ritleng Vincent
Published: July 2021

The cationic [NiCp(Mes‐NHC‐CH2py]Br complex 2 a was prepared directly by the reaction of nickelocene with 1‐(2‐picolyl)‐3‐mesityl‐imidazolium bromide (1), and its PF6− derivative 2 b, by subsequent salt metathesis. X‐ray diffraction studies and Variable Temperature 1H NMR experiments run with 2 a and 2 b strongly suggest the bidentate coordination of the picolyl‐functionalized carbene to the nickel both in the solid state and in solution in both cases. These data suggest the absence of hemilabile behavior of the latter, even in the presence of a coordinating anion. Both complexes show similar activity in aldehyde hydrosilylation, further implying the absence of hemilability of the picolyl‐functionalized carbene, and effectively reduce a broad scope of aldehydes in the absence of additive under mild conditions. In the case of ketones, effective hydrosilylation is only observed in the presence of a catalytic amount of potassium t‐butoxide at 100 °C. Dynamic light scattering, scanning transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy show evidence for the involvement of NHC‐picolyl‐Ni nanoparticles under these conditions.
Epilepsy duration is an independent factor for electrocardiographic changes in pediatric epilepsy
Authors: Chan See Wai , Dervan Leslie A. , Watson Robert Scott , Anderson Anne E. , Lai Yi‐Chen
Published: July 2021

Objective

Cardiac alterations represent a potential epilepsy‐associated comorbidity. Whether cardiac changes occur as a function of epilepsy duration is not well understood. We sought to evaluate whether cardiac alterations represented a time‐dependent phenomenon in pediatric epilepsy.

Methods

We retrospectively followed pediatric epilepsy patients without preexisting cardiac conditions or ion channelopathies who had history of pediatric intensive care unit admission for convulsive seizures or status epilepticus between 4/2014 and 7/2017. All available 12‐lead electrocardiograms (ECGs) from these patients between 1/2006 and 5/2019 were included. We examined ECG studies for changes in rhythm; PR, QRS, or corrected QT intervals; QRS axis or morphology; ST segment; or T wave. Data were analyzed using multivariable models containing covariates associated with ECG changes or epilepsy duration from the univariate analyses.

Results

127 children with 323 ECGs were included in the analyses. The median epilepsy duration was 3.9 years (IQR 1.3‐8.4 years) at the time of an ECG study and a median of 2 ECGs (IQR 1‐3) per subject. The clinical encounters associated with ECGs ranged from well‐child visits to status epilepticus. We observed changes in 171 ECGs (53%), with 83 children (65%) had at least 1 ECG with alterations. In a multivariable logistic regression model adjusting for potentially confounding variables and accounting for clustering by patient, epilepsy duration was independently associated with altered ECGs for each year of epilepsy (OR: 1.1, 95% CI: 1.0‐1.2, P = .002). Extrapolating from this model, children with epilepsy durations of 10 and 15 years had 2.9 and 4.9 times the odds of having ECG changes, respectively.

Significance

Cardiac alterations may become more common with increasing epilepsy duration in select pediatric epilepsy patients. Future studies are needed to determine the potential clinical implications and the generalizability of these observations.
Managing for RADical ecosystem change: applying the Resist‐Accept‐Direct (RAD) framework
Authors: Lynch Abigail J , Thompson Laura M , Beever Erik A , Cole David N , Engman Augustin C , Hawkins Hoffman Cat , Jackson Stephen T , Krabbenhoft Trevor J , Lawrence David J , Limpinsel Douglas , Magill Robert T , Melvin Tracy A , Morton John M , Newman Robert A , Peterson Jay O , Porath Mark T , Rahel Frank J , Schuurman Gregor W , Sethi Suresh A , Wilkening Jennifer L
Published: July 2021

Ecosystem transformation involves the emergence of persistent ecological or social–ecological systems that diverge, dramatically and irreversibly, from prior ecosystem structure and function. Such transformations are occurring at increasing rates across the planet in response to changes in climate, land use, and other factors. Consequently, a dynamic view of ecosystem processes that accommodates rapid, irreversible change will be critical for effectively conserving fish, wildlife, and other natural resources, and maintaining ecosystem services. However, managing ecosystems toward states with novel structure and function is an inherently unpredictable and difficult task. Managers navigating ecosystem transformation can benefit from considering broader objectives, beyond a traditional focus on resisting ecosystem change, by also considering whether accepting inevitable change or directing it along some desirable pathway is more feasible (that is, practical and appropriate) under some circumstances (the RAD framework). By explicitly acknowledging transformation and implementing an iterative RAD approach, natural resource managers can be deliberate and strategic in addressing profound ecosystem change.
Serum triglyceride levels and related factors as prognostic indicators in COVID‐19 patients: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhong Peng , Wang Zhenzhou , Du Zhe
Published: July 2021

The role of triglycerides (TG) in coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) is controversial. The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between TG levels and prognosis in COVID‐19 patients and investigate the factors that affect TG. COVID‐19 patients were divided into normal or high TG level groups. Their demographic data, medical history, signs and symptoms, laboratory results, and final clinical results were analyzed retrospectively. A total of 174 patients were included. TG level was 1.6 (interquartile range [IQR]: 1.1‒2.1) mmol/L for all patients; 2.2 (IQR: 1.8‒2.7) mmol/L and 1.1 (IQR: 1.0–1.3) mmol/L in the high TG and control groups, respectively. Overall, 29 patients (16.7%) died during hospitalization, including 19 (23.1%) in the high TG group and 10 (11.5%) in the control group (absolute survival difference, 2.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2%‐5.1%), log‐rank χ
2 = 5.7, and p = .017). Serum ferritin, C‐reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) levels were significantly higher in the high TG group compared to the control group. Pearson correlation analysis showed that TG was positively correlated with fasting blood glucose, leukocyte, serum ferritin, LDH, CRP, and IL‐10 levels. Multiple regression showed that serum ferritin and IL‐10 levels affected the TG level (R
2 = .095). The TG level in COVID‐19 patients is correlated to serum ferritin and IL‐10 levels, which reflects the activation of macrophages. It is suggested that COVID‐19 patients be monitored for elevated TG as both a prognostic indicator and potential therapeutic target for COVID‐19.
Discovery of novel tubulin inhibitors targeting taxanes site by virtual screening, molecular dynamic simulation, and biological evaluation
Authors: Zhang Hui , Mao Jun , Yang Yan‐Li , Liu Chun‐Tao , Shen Chen , Zhang Hong‐Rui , Xie Huan‐Zhang , Ding Lan
Published: July 2021

Microtubules play crucial role in process of mitosis and cell proliferation, which have been considered as attractive drug targets for anticancer therapy. The aim of this study was to discover novel and chemically diverse tubulin inhibitors for treatment of cancer. In this investigation, the multilayer virtual screening methods, including common feature pharmacophore model, structure‐based pharmacophore model and molecular docking, were developed to screen BioDiversity database with 30,000 compounds. A total of 102 compounds were obtained by the virtual screening, and further filtered by diverse chemical clusters with desired properties and PAINS analysis. Finally, 50 compounds were selected and submitted to the biological evaluation. Among these hits, hits 8 and 30 with novel scaffolds displayed stronger antiproliferative activity on four human tumor cells including Hela, A549, MCF‐7, and HepG2. Moreover, the two hits were subsequently submitted to molecular dynamic simulations of 90 ns with the aim of exploring the stability of ligand‐protein interactions into the binding pocket, and further probing the mechanism of the interaction between tubulin and hits. The molecular dynamic simulation results revealed there had stronger interactions between tubulin and hits in equilibrium state. Therefore, the hits 8 and 30 have been well characterized as lead compounds for developing new tubulin inhibitors with potential anticancer activity.
Application of high‐throughput sequencing for hereditary thrombocytopenia in southwestern China
Authors: Zhang Luying , Yu Jie , Xian Ying , Wen Xianhao , Guan Xianmin , Guo Yuxia , Luo Mingzhu , Dou Ying
Published: July 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to design and analyze the applicability of a 21‐gene high‐throughput sequencing (HTS) panel in the molecular diagnosis of patients with hereditary thrombocytopenia (HT).

Methods

A custom target enrichment library was designed to capture 21 genes known to be associated with HTs. Twenty‐four patients with an HT phenotype were studied using this technology.

Results

One pathogenic variant on the MYH9 gene and one likely pathogenic variant on the ABCG8 gene previously known to cause HTs were identified. Additionally, 3 previously reported variants affecting WAS, ADAMTS13, and GP1BA were detected, and 9 novel variants affecting FLNA, ITGB3, NBEAL2, MYH9, VWF, and ANKRD26 genes were identified. The 12 variants were classified to be of uncertain significance.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that HTS is an accurate and reliable method of pre‐screening patients for variants in known HT‐causing genes. With the advantage of distinguishing HT from immune thrombocytopenia, HTS could play a key role in improving the clinical management of patients.
Iranian psychosocial status during and after COVID‐19 outbreak mandatory quarantine: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zakeri Mohammad A. , Maazallahi Mahboobeh , Ehsani Vahid , Dehghan Mahlagha
Published: July 2021

Quarantine, one of the most effective protection measures, plays an essential role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. The coronavirus 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, along with quarantine, can have devastating consequences for individuals' mental and social health. This study examined the psychosocial status of individuals during and after quarantine in the COVID‐19 pandemic. This cross‐sectional study was conducted on 714 individuals in the general population during (365) and 3 months after quarantine (349) in southeastern Iran. Data were collected using General Health Questionnaire (GHQ‐28) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7‐item (GAD‐7) based on an online questionnaire. Data were collected from April 13 to April 20, 2020 (in quarantine) and 3 months later from August 20 to September 20, 2020. Psychological disorders in the quarantined population were significantly higher than that after quarantine. The risk of a mental disorder in the quarantined population was 1.54 times higher than that after quarantine. The results showed that quarantine is associated with a significant level of psychosocial disorders; therefore, interventions should be considered to reduce the effects of quarantine on the mental health of general population as a public health priority at the community level.