bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Crosses Heterotic over Standard Check for Earliness and High Oil Content in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L)
Authors: Nadaf Shabanabeguam , Nehru S. D. , Uma M. S. , Rao A. Mohan , Manjula C.P. , Shadakshari YG , Farooq M. S. Umar
Published: March 2022

To estimate the extent of heterosis in sunflower for earliness and oil content, ninety-six hybrids were tested in line × tester mating fashion consisting of six CMS lines and sixteen testers (10 R × R S3 high oil content restorer lines and 6 R × R S4 early restorer lines) were evaluated in a simple lattice design, simultaneously parents were also evaluated in RCBD design at Main Agricultural Research Station, Hebbal, Bangalore during summer 2020-21. Analysis of variances revealed that the genotypes, parents, lines, crosses and parent vs crosses showed highly significant differences for earliness and oil content. The high oil content hybrids viz., CMS 903A × 5-2-1 (79.50 days) and CMS 903A × 44-2-1 (80 days), and early hybrids i.e., CMS 903A × 2-3-1-2 (76 days) and NDCMS4A × 2-3-1-2 (78.50 days) recorded good mean performance and high significant heterosis for earliness in a negative direction over the standard check KBSH-44 (National check). With regard to the oil content, the high oil content hybrids like NDCMS2A × 30-10-1 (41.63%), CMS 903A × 38-4-1 (41.61%) and CMS 234A × 38-4-1 (41.61%), in the case of early hybrids viz., CMS 911A × 25-2-4-2 (41.11%), CMS 911A × 4-1-3-1 (39.69%) and CMS 911A × 2-3-1-2 (39.59%) were showed good mean performance and highest significant standard heterosis over the standard checks like KBSH-44 and KBSH-53. Similarly, regarding the seed yield plant-1 (g), the hybrids viz., CMS 911A × 8-5-5-1[E] (70.60g), CMS 234A × 31-1-1[H] (66.20g) and CMS 1103A × 30-10-1[H] (65.95g) were manifested desirable mean performance and also higher significant heterosis over standard check KBSH-44.
Impact of Elevated Soil Temperature on Physiological Parameters of Tea Plant Growing Adjacent to Gas Flaring Site
Authors: Kalita Rashmi , Bhuyan Kalparanjan , Barua Subhash Chandra , Saikia Gautam Kumar
Published: March 2022

Gas flaring is now recognized as a major environmental problem. Smoking flare may be a significant contributor to overall particulate emissions. It also results in production of excessive heat in the nearby areas. The present investigation aims to study the impact of elevated soil temperature on physiological parameters of tea plant growing adjacent to Gas flaring site. The experimental plot was laid out in 5 x 2 factorial RCBD with two factors viz. different distances from the flare site and two seasons in two different tea gardens adjacent to Kathaloni OCS and Merbil Majuli OCS 6 in Dibrugarh district of Assam in 2019-20. Plant and soil samples were collected and estimation of some select plant physiological parameters was done. Significant increase in soil temperature and decrease in soil moisture content was observed in distance closer to the flare pit. The result of the study revealed that there was a gradual decline in relative turgidity, specific leaf weight, plucking point density, stomatal count, leaf area measurement, polyphenol content, chlorophyll content, caffeine content but an increase in water saturation deficit of the green tea leaves on plants existing at a distance moving closer to the flare pit. A significant increase in rain flushing season as compared to autumn was observed in all the plant parameters except water saturation deficit.
Atraumatic Spleen Rupture Presenting as Acute Abdominal Pain: A Case Report
Authors: Puri Saurabh , Grover Ashok Kumar , Nand Choudhary Pankaj , Saurabh Shashwat , Datta Satyaki , Sural Anuradha
Published: March 2022

Splenic rupture is a potentially life-threatening condition associated with acute abdominal pain. Although rare, atraumatic spleen rupture (ASR) has been reported. It is not usually considered in the differential diagnosis of acute abdomen so often missed in emergency leading to high morbidity and mortality. We present the case of a 38-year-old male who presented with fever and acute abdominal pain, had atraumatic splenic rupture which was diagnosed early resulting in better outcome of patient.
Qualitative Assessment of Reaching Movement pattern using Reach-To-Grasp Task on Albino Wistar Rat Fed with Fufu
Authors: David Lekpa K. , Paul John N. , Hart Josiah S.
Published: March 2022

Fufu is a popular food in West Africa made from fresh or fermented cassava. As a product of cassava, when not properly processed may lead to some neurological impairment. This study investigated the physical and neurological effects of fufu in male wistar rats. Two groups of animals were used for this study. Group 1 (control group N=10) received the normal rat feed while group 2 (n=10) received the fufu produce. Both were administered for about 5 weeks after which a reach-to-grasp experiment was carried out using the reaching apparatus. Their physical appearances were observed and it was seen that the group fed with fufu experienced some hair loss and other physical changes. Qualitative assessment of their reaching movements showed that the group fed with fufu performed poorly in the reach-to-grasp experiment than the control group. In the observation of the movement pattern of both groups, it was clearly seen that the group fed with fufu had difficulties aiming and grasping as well as withdrawing of food pellets during the experiment and they also showed signs of weakness due to the fact that they were not able to lift their limbs properly in order to reach the pellets on the pedestal, therefore showing under reaching movements. Conclusion: the prolonged consumption of not properly processed fufu has both physical and neurological effects on the albino wistar rat.
Development and Validation of Christian Ministers Psychopathological Scale (CMPS)
Authors: Alakija Oluseyi Abiodun , Akinnawo Ebenezer Olutope , Akinbobola Olusola Iyabode , Akpunne Bede Chinonye
Published: March 2022

This paper describes the development and validation of a Christian Ministers Psychopathological Scale (CMPS) to facilitate early diagnosis of mental health challenges among Christian Ministers, especially in Nigeria. The study adopted a cross-sectional design and was carried out in four stages. The initial items were generated from an extensive review of literature and concerns raised from a focused group discussion among Christian ministers with Pentecostal affiliation. These concerns are perceived as possible predictors of mental health challenges among the ministers. Fifty-two (52) participants were randomly selected from Ede, Osun State, Southwestern Nigeria for the scale development, while four hundred and fifty-six (456) participants were randomly selected across the six geo-political zones in Nigeria. They responded to the online versions of the  15- item instrument (CMPS) and Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-14) for the congruent validation. The observed KMO measure was 0.47, and a significant sphericity test was observed (X2=1258.495, df= .703, p = .000). All the 15 items extracted from the Principal Components Analysis PCA were within the very good discrimination values. The CMPS has a Cronbach's alpha of .79. Congruent validity coefficient of (r =.368, p = .035); was observed between CMPS and DASS-14. Authors conclude that the CMPS is gender-sensitive, has acceptable psychometric properties and is recommended as a diagnostic tool for assessing psychopathological symptoms among Christian ministers.
The Scottish Antiquarian Tradition
Authors: Bell A S
Published: March 2022

For two hundred years the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland has remained a major guardian of the heritage of the nation in its museum and through the long series of publications by its members that record many of the major discoveries about the early history of Scotland. In 1980 the Society celebrated the bicentenary of its foundation by commissioning this series of essays dealing with its history as the premier Scottish archaeological and historical body.
Two prehistoric short-cists and an early medieval long-cist cemetery with dug graves on Kingston Common, North Berwick, East Lothian
Authors: Suddaby Ian , Duffy Paul , Jackson Adam , Lawson John , MacSween Ann , Warren Graeme , Mudie George , Hicks Kevin , Whitelaw Leeanne
Published: March 2022

Human remains were discovered during the laying of a water pipe to service the refurbished Fenton Tower at Kingston, near North Berwick (NGR: NT 544 823), in 2001. Two short-cist burials, thirty-eight long-cist burials and bank-defined terraces containing dug graves and a possible chapel (NT58SW 152) were found. It is suggested that three main periods of burial are represented, spanning the Neolithic to the early 2nd millennium AD.
Kvantovanie sistem s polojitelno- i otritsatelno-energeticheskimi sostoyaniyami
Authors:   Centre for Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics, Zakir Zahid
Published: March 2022

Трактовка Штюкельберга-Фейнмана (ШФ), где античастицы с положительной энергией описываются как частицы с отрицательной энергией, движущиеся назад во времени, лежит в основе физики частиц, но не согласуется с квантовой теорией поля, поскольку приводит к отрицательной норме для состояний с отрицательной энергией. В статье представлен новый последовательный метод канонического квантования в трактовке ШФ, где нормы всех состояний положительны, поскольку изменение направления интегрирования по времени в функции действия меняет знак лагранжиана античастиц и импульса. Минимальные лагранжианы для комплексных канонических переменных не приводят к нулевой энергии, что частично решает проблему космологической постоянной. Причинные пропагаторы и амплитуды появляются как симметричные хронологические произведения операторов поля, что немного изменяет диаграммную технику. Приведены модифицированные условия микропричинности и доказательства теоремы о спине и статистике, обсуждаются приложения к физике частиц и конденсированным средам.
Green Synthesis, Characterization, and Catalytic Activity of Amine-multiwalled Carbon Nanotube for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Macawile Maria Cristina Arboleda , Durian Alva , Rubi Rugi Vicente , Quitain Armando , Kida Tetsuya , Tan Raymond , Razon Luis , Auresenia Joseph
Published: March 2022

An amine-functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) was prepared for use as a basic heterogeneous catalyst for the conversion of Cocos nucifera (coconut) oil and Hibiscus cannabinus (kenaf) oil to biodiesel. The 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (3-APTMS) was chosen to form an amine-reactive surface to bind with hydroxyl (−OH) and carboxyl (−COOH) groups of oxidized MWCNT. Silanization took place using a green surface modification method in which supercritical carbon dioxide fluid was utilized under the following conditions: 55 °C, 9 MPa, and 1 h. The synthesized catalyst was characterized using Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Field emission scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive x-ray (FESEM-EDX), Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and Brunauer–Emmett-Teller (BET). Transesterification of coconut oil using 10 wt% NH2-MWCNT catalyst (3 wt% APTMS), 12:1 molar ratio of methanol and oil at 63 °C for 1 h resulted in a >95% conversion. On the other hand, the same catalyst was used in the transesterification of kenaf oil, and formation of ammonium carboxylated salt was observed. The effects of temperature, pressure, and silane concentration on surface modification of MWCNT were evaluated in terms of the catalyst’s basic site density and fatty acid methyl ester conversion. The results indicate that reaction temperature and silane concentration had the most significant effects. Copyright © 2022 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Numerical Study of a Water Gas Shift Fixed Bed Reactor Operating at Low Pressures
Authors: El-Bazi Wail , Bideq Mustapha , El-Abidi Abderrahim , Yadir Said , Ouartassi Bajil
Published: March 2022

Today, hydrogen has become one of the most promising clean energy. Several processes allow obtaining hydrogen, among them there is the Water Gas Shift (WGS) reaction. On an industrial scale, WGS reaction takes place at high pressure [25–35 bar]. At high pressure, the cost of the process rises due to the energy consumed by compression, and the reduction in the lifetime of the equipment and the catalyst. At low pressures, catalyst lifetime can reach many years and the energy cost is reduced. It is for this reason that we are interested in modelling and simulation of a WGS converter operating at low pressures close to atmospheric pressure. In this work, a numerical study was conducted in order to determine the conditions allowing good rector operating at low pressure. A number of drawbacks of the process were identified. These drawbacks are essentially the non-negligible pressure drops and the strong intraparticle diffusion resistances. The prediction of the concentrations and the reaction rate within the pellet showed that the active zone of the pellet is located near the particle surface. It has also been shown that the resistances to interfacial mass and heat transfer are insignificant. The study of pressure effect showed that the pressure increase reduces the required catalyst mass to achieve equilibrium. Finally, this work revealed that the decrease in temperature and the increase in the concentrations of the reactants by increasing their fluxes, make it possible to increase the effectiveness factor of the catalyst and the conversion of carbon monoxide. Copyright © 2022 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Nickel‐Catalyzed Reductive Acylation of Carboxylic Acids with Alkyl Halides and N‐Hydroxyphthalimide Esters Enabled by Electrochemical Process
Authors: Zhou Xiao , Guo Lin , Zhang Haoxiang , Xia Raymond Yang , Yang Chao , Xia Wujiong
Published: March 2022

A sustainable Ni‐catalyzed reductive acylation reaction of carboxylic acids via an electrochemical pathway is presented, affording a variety of ketones as major products. The reaction proceeds at ambient temperature using unactivated alkyl halides and N‐hydroxyphthalimide (NHP) esters as coupling partners, which exhibits several synthetic advantages, including mild conditions and convenience of amplification (58% yield for 6 mmol scale reaction).

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2‐Bromo‐3,3,3‐Trifluoropropene: A Versatile Reagent for the Synthesis of Fluorinated Compounds
Authors: Zhou Qin , Bao Yining , Yan Guobing
Published: March 2022

2‐Bromo‐3,3,3‐trifluoropropene (BTP) represents a highly valuable synthon in synthetic chemistry, and has been widely used in organic synthesis, mainly including addition reactions, cross‐coupling reactions, cycloaddition or cyclization reactions, SN2’ reactions, and Stetter reactions for the construction of various fluorinated organic compounds. In this review, we systematically summarize these reactions; their mechanisms are also discussed.

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The farm to fork strategy and the digital transformation of the agrifood sector—An assessment from the perspective of innovation systems
Authors: Reinhardt Tilman
Published: March 2022

The article assesses the European Union's Farm to Fork (F2F) strategy from the perspective of innovation systems, focusing on digital technologies in agriculture. It employs the Technical Innovation Systems framework to analyze how the policies proposed in the F2F strategy affect essential functions of the innovation system. The analysis shows that the F2F strategy significantly contributes to innovation system performance by providing a clear and coherent agenda and various concrete measures designed to support innovation, knowledge and skill development. However, the strategy falls short in creating favorable market conditions for innovative technologies and building legitimacy with farmers as the most important user group.
Recent Progress in Bio‐Integrated Intelligent Sensing System
Authors: Liu Mengwei , Zhang Yujia , Tao Tiger H.
Published: March 2022

It is incontrovertible that the bioelectronic enabled bio‐integrated system is one of the most promising technologies in the upcoming decades. Driven by the great versatility of the emerging artificial intelligence, machine‐learning‐supported bio‐integrated intelligent sensing system (BISS) is capable of achieving data processing and intelligent recognition while conducting multimodal human‐centered sensing; such facilitated systems capitalize the benefits of both bioelectronics and supporting algorithm, enabling accurate physiological/somatosensory recognition at the cost of certain computing resources. Herein, an overview of recent progress in BISS is presented, with an emphasis on high‐tech applications enabled by innovations in combining flexible bioelectronic sensors with supporting algorithmic systems. The main applications can be divided into three categories, including implantable, skin‐mounted, and wearable BISS, which have different requirements for materials, fabrication methods, and algorithms, respectively. Advances in these areas open new avenues for employing BISS as future human–machine interfaces for personalized healthcare, human enhancement, as well as other broad applications.
Shoot dimorphism enables Sequoia sempervirens to separate requirements for foliar water uptake and photosynthesis
Authors: Chin Alana R. O. , Guzmán‐Delgado Paula , Sillett Stephen C. , Orozco Jessica , Kramer Russell D. , Kerhoulas Lucy P. , Moore Zane J. , Reed Marty , Zwieniecki Maciej A.
Published: March 2022

Premise

Trees in wet forests often have features that prevent water films from covering stomata and inhibiting gas exchange, while many trees in drier environments use foliar water uptake to reduce water stress. In forests with both wet and dry seasons, evergreen trees would benefit from producing leaves capable of balancing rainy‐season photosynthesis with summertime water absorption.

Methods

Using samples collected from across the vertical gradient in tall redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) crowns, we estimated tree‐level foliar water uptake and employed physics‐based causative modeling to identify key functional traits that determine uptake potential by setting hydraulic resistance.

Results

We showed that Sequoia has two functionally distinct shoot morphotypes. While most shoots specialize in photosynthesis, the axial shoot type is capable of much greater foliar water uptake, and its within‐crown distribution varies with latitude. A suite of leaf surface traits cause hydraulic resistance, leading to variation in uptake capacity among samples.

Conclusions

Shoot dimorphism gives tall Sequoia trees the capacity to absorb up to 48 kg H2O h−1 during the first hour of leaf wetting, ameliorating water stress while presumably maintaining high photosynthetic capacity year round. Geographic variation in shoot dimorphism suggests that plasticity in shoot‐type distribution and leaf surface traits helps Sequoia maintain a dominate presence in both wet and dry forests.
Soluble and Perfluorinated Polyelectrolyte for Safe and High‐Performance Li−O2 Batteries
Authors: Xiong Qi , Huang Gang , Yu Yue , Li Chao‐Le , Li Jian‐Chen , Yan Jun‐Min , Zhang Xin‐Bo
Published: March 2022

The severe performance degradation of high‐capacity Li−O2 batteries induced by Li dendrite growth and concentration polarization from the low Li+ transfer number of conventional electrolytes hinder their practical applications. Herein, lithiated Nafion (LN) with the sulfonic group immobilized on the perfluorinated backbone has been designed as a soluble lithium salt for preparing a less flammable polyelectrolyte solution, which not only simultaneously achieves a high Li+ transfer number (0.84) and conductivity (2.5 mS cm−1), but also the perfluorinated anion of LN produces a LiF‐rich SEI for protecting the Li anode from dendrite growth. Thus, the Li−O2 battery with a LN‐based electrolyte achieves an all‐round performance improvement, like low charge overpotential (0.18 V), large discharge capacity (9508 mAh g−1), and excellent cycling performance (225 cycles). Besides, the fabricated pouch‐type Li–air cells exhibit promising applications to power electronic equipment with satisfactory safety.
Vermittelnde Oxidation von Thioethern mit Iod – Eine vielseitige und milde Methode zur Bildung von Peptidhydrogelen
Authors: Nowak Benedikt P. , Schlichter Lisa , Ravoo Bart Jan
Published: March 2022

Die Entwicklung Redox‐ausgelöster Peptidhydrogele ist mit fundamentalen Herausforderungen verknüpft, da hoch spezifische Peptidarchitekturen benötigt werden, was unvermeidlich in einer Limitierung der Vielseitigkeit solcher Materialien resultiert. Ein vielversprechender, jedoch selten genutzter Ansatz, um diese Hürden zu überwinden, ist die Nutzung einer vermittelnden Redoxreaktion zur kontrollierten Absenkung des pH‐Werts während der Hydrogelbildung. Hier beschreiben wir eine vielseitige Strategie zum Auslösen der Gelierung von Hydrogelen bestehend aus leicht zugänglichen, Säure‐ausgelösten Gelatoren durch Freisetzung der dafür notwendigen Protonen über die Oxidation von Thioethern mit Iod. Durch Zugabe von Thiodiglycol als einfach verfügbarer Hilfstoff zur basischen Vorlösung des Peptidgelators Nap‐FF sowie weiteren Peptiden werden nach Vermischung mit Triiodid hocheffizient Hydrogele erhalten. Darüber hinaus ermöglicht der Einbau der Thioethereinheit in das Rückgrat des Gelators die Modulation des Ansatzes unter Reduktion der Anzahl der notwendigen Additive, wie gezeigt anhand des maßgeschneiderten Nap‐FMDM Gelators.
Supramolecular Chalcogen‐Bonded Semiconducting Nanoribbons at Work in Lighting Devices
Authors: Romito Deborah , Fresta Elisa , Cavinato Luca M. , Kählig Hanspeter , Amenitsch Heinz , Caputo Laura , Chen Yusheng , Samorì Paolo , Charlier Jean‐Christophe , Costa Rubén D. , Bonifazi Davide
Published: March 2022

This work describes the design and synthesis of a π‐conjugated telluro[3,2‐β][1]‐tellurophene‐based synthon that, embodying pyridyl and haloaryl chalcogen‐bonding acceptors, self‐assembles into nanoribbons through chalcogen bonds. The ribbons π‐stack in a multi‐layered architecture both in single crystals and thin films. Theoretical studies of the electronic states of chalcogen‐bonded material showed the presence of a local charge density between Te and N atoms. OTFT‐based charge transport measurements showed hole‐transport properties for this material. Its integration as a p‐type semiconductor in multi‐layered CuI‐based light‐emitting electrochemical cells (LECs) led to a 10‐fold increase in stability (38 h vs. 3 h) compared to single‐layered devices. Finally, using the reference tellurotellurophene congener bearing a C−H group instead of the pyridyl N atom, a herringbone solid‐state assembly is formed without charge transport features, resulting in LECs with poor stabilities (<1 h).
Metal complexes of hydrazone–oxime derivative as promising in vitro antimicrobial agents against some fungal and bacterial strains
Authors: Hassan Essam A. , Ebrahium Mohamad M. , Ebrahium Adel M.
Published: March 2022

In this study, Cu2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Mn2+, Zn2+, Fe3+, VO2+, and UO22+ complexes derived from a NNO tridentate chelating hydrazone–oxime, namely, N′‐((2E,3Z)‐3‐(hydroxyimino)butan‐2‐ylidene)benzohydrazide (H2L,1) were prepared. The elemental, thermo‐gravimetric, spectral, molar conductivity, and magnetic measurements were applied to elucidate the compositions and structures of these new compounds. In addition to the density functional theory (DFT), studies were employed to acquire optimal structures and quantum chemical parameters. The analyses indicate that the chelator reacted as a neutral or mononegative tridentate ligand bonded to the metal ions via the enolic/ketonic carbonylic oxygen, protonated/deprotonated oximatic nitrogen, and azomethine nitrogen atoms adopting square planar or distorted octahedral geometry. The structural characterization of hydrazone–oxime and its complexes was supported by DFT calculations according to the DFT‐B3LYP procedure and 6‐311+G(d,p) basis set. The theoretical data revealed that the reactivity of the complexes is greater than the free hydrazone–oxime (H2L,1), and there is a good agreement between the practical and theoretical data. The thermogravimetric investigation shows that the complexes break down in two to four decomposing steps in temperature range extended from 50 to 1000°C. In vitro antimicrobial activity data demonstrated an increase in activity of the hydrazone–oxime (H2L,1), upon chelation, and some metal complexes show enhanced antibacterial and antifungal agents.
Archaeological site types, and assemblage size and diversity in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Phillipps Rebecca , Holdaway Simon , Barrett Matthew , Emmitt Joshua
Published: March 2022

Archaeological settlement models involve the identification of functional site types like base camps and extraction sites based, in part, on differences in the range and frequency of artefact types and fauna. Using reports describing such assemblages from Aotearoa (New Zealand) archaeological sites dating to the first 300 years after initial colonisation, differences in assemblage composition are assessed against total assemblage size. Aotearoa provides a particularly useful test case for the archaeological identification of site types since human colonisation was relatively late in world human history meaning that assemblage accumulation should show functional site types like those identified in the ethnographic record. To test this, SHE (Richness, Heterogeneity, Evenness) diversity analysis is used to examine 18 artefact and ten faunal assemblages dated pre‐1500 CE from a variety of Aotearoa locations. Results suggest artefact and faunal diversity measures perform poorly when employed to differentiate functional site types, suggesting that the null hypothesis of assemblage size dependency cannot be rejected. This result allows for comment on the appropriateness of ethnographically derived functional site types for the study of the archaeological record even when this record accumulated over short time periods.
Attribution of intentions in autism spectrum disorder: A study of event‐related potentials
Authors: Fernandes João Miguel , Soares Sara , Lopes Ricardo , Jerónimo Rita , Barahona‐Corrêa J. Bernardo
Published: March 2022

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by social cognition deficits, including difficulties inferring the intentions of others. Although deficits in attribution of intentions (AI) have been consistently replicated in ASD, their exact nature remains unexplored. Here we registered the electrophysiological correlates of a nonverbal social cognition task to investigate AI in autistic adults. Twenty‐one male autistic adults and 30 male neurotypical volunteers performed a comic strips task depicting either intentional action (AI) or physical causality with or without human characters, while their electroencephalographic signal was recorded. Compared to neurotypical volunteers, autistic participants were significantly less accurate in correctly identifying congruence in the AI condition, but not in the physical causality conditions. In the AI condition a bilateral posterior positive event‐related potential (ERP) occurred 200–400 ms post‐stimulus (the ERP intention effect) in both groups. This waveform comprised a P200 and a P300 component, with the P200 component being larger for the AI condition in neurotypical volunteers but not in autistic individuals, who also showed a longer latency for this waveform. Group differences in amplitude of the ERP intention effect only became evident when we compared autistic participants to a subgroup of similarly performing neurotypical participants, suggesting that the atypical ERP waveform in ASD is an effect of group, rather than a marker of low‐task performance. Together, these results suggest that the lower accuracy of the ASD group in the AI task may result from impaired early attentional processing and contextual integration of socially relevant cues.

Lay Summary

To understand why autistic people have difficulties in inferring others' intentions, we asked participants to judge the congruence of the endings of comic strips depicting either intentional actions (e.g., fetching a chair to reach for something) or situations solely following physical rules (e.g., an apple falling on someone's head), while their electrical brain activity was recorded. Autistic individuals had more difficulties in inferring intentions than neurotypical controls, which may reflect impaired attention and contextual integration of social cues.
Enabling Fast‐Charging Lithium‐Ion Battery Anodes: Influence of Spheroidization on Natural Graphite
Authors: Mancini Marilena , Martin Jan , Ruggeri Irene , Drewett Nicholas , Axmann Peter , Wohlfahrt‐Mehrens Margret
Published: March 2022

Excellent fast‐charging performance is a key requirement for lithium‐ion batteries intended for automotive applications. Rational particle design for active materials within electrodes represents a strategic approach to minimize kinetic limitations – especially for the anode, where the lithium intercalation rate affects the overall cell charging capacity at elevated current densities. Typically, for practical applications, natural graphite flakes are shaped into rounded particles via a mechanical spheroidization process. In this work, we show that both surface and bulk particle properties correlate strongly with the applied spheroidization conditions, and directly affect the electrochemical performance, particularly in terms of lithium‐intercalation rate. We demonstrate that graphite particles with a surface rich in prismatic planes, structural defects, and oxygen‐rich groups are favorable for fast lithium uptake. The influence of the graphite particle characteristics on the lithium intercalation rate plays a key role at the electrode and cell level, affecting the overall cell performance. We provide new insights into particle optimization during spheroidization as an effective strategy for developing fast‐charging lithium‐ion batteries.
Retracted: A review on the determination of veterinary drug residues in food products
Authors: Dao Anh Quang , Nhi Le Thi Thanh , Nguyen Do Mai , Toan Tran Thanh Tam
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we discuss veterinary medicine and its applications in the food industry as well as the risk to the health of humans and animals caused by these residues. We review how the veterinary residues enter and cause some detrimental effects. We also mention two techniques to determine the residue of veterinary medications that exist in food originating from animals, including classic and advanced techniques. Finally, we discuss the potential of various developed methods and compare them with some traditional techniques.
Heterogeneity derived from 18F‐FDG PET/CT predicts immunotherapy outcome for metastatic triple‐negative breast cancer patients
Authors: Xie Yizhao , Liu Cheng , Zhao Yannan , Gong Chengcheng , Li Yi , Hu Shihui , Song Shaoli , Hu Xichun , Yang Zhongyi , Wang Biyun
Published: March 2022

Background

Recently, immunotherapy has been used to treat metastatic triple‐negative breast cancer (mTNBC). Basic research has indicated a relation between tumor heterogeneity and the immune response. Tumor heterogeneity derived from 18F‐FDG PET/CT is a potential predictor of chemotherapy results; however, few studies have focused on immunotherapy. This study aims to develop a convenient and efficient measurement of tumor heterogeneity for the prediction of immunotherapy in mTNBC patients.

Methods

We enrolled mTNBC patients who received immunotherapy (PD‐1/PD‐L1 antibody) plus chemotherapy as first‐line treatment and underwent 18F‐FDG PET/CT scans before treatment. We defined a novel index representing tumor heterogeneity calculated from the standard uptake value (SUV) as IATH and IETH. Optimal cutoffs were determined using time‐dependent receiver operator characteristics (ROC) analysis.

Results

A total of 32 patients were enrolled and analyzed in this trial. A significantly longer median PFS was observed in the low SUVmax group than in the high SUVmax group (9.4 vs. 5.8 months, HR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.1–0.9, p = 0.025). The median PFS of low‐IATH patients was significantly longer than that of high‐IATH patients (HR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.1–0.8, p = 0.022). Similarly, patients with low IETH had significantly longer PFS than patients with high IETH (9.4 vs. 4.9 months, HR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.1–0.7, p = 0.01). Multivariate analysis demonstrated IETH as an independent predictor of PFS.

Conclusions

This study proposed a novel method to assess intratumor and intertumor heterogeneity among metastatic breast cancer patients and determined that baseline IETH derived from 18F‐FDG PET/CT could represent a simple and promising predictor for first‐line immunotherapy among mTNBC patients.
The efficacy of low‐power cumulative high‐intensity focused ultrasound treatment for recurrent desmoid tumor
Authors: Zhong Xian , Hu Xiaoye , Zhao Peng , Wang Yuebing , Fang Xue Feng , Shen Jiayi , Shen Hong , Yuan Ying
Published: March 2022

Background

Desmoid tumors are rare neoplasms that are locally invasive. However, optimal treatment strategies for recurrent desmoid tumors remain controversial. High‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has been reported as a noninvasive modality for treating recurrent desmoid tumors. However, its efficacy against massive desmoid tumors or those with complex anatomies remains unclear.

Methods

We developed a new therapeutic strategy called low‐power cumulative HIFU and applied it to treat recurrent desmoid tumors.

Results

We retrospectively collected data from 91 patients with recurrent desmoid tumors who underwent low‐power cumulative HIFU treatment after surgical treatment failure. The mean ablation proportion of the HIFU treatment was 69.5%, and the objective response rate was 47.3%. The 5‐year estimated progression‐free survival rate for these patients was 69.3%.

Conclusion

Low‐power cumulative HIFU treatment could achieve significant efficacy and long‐term control of recurrent desmoid tumors.
Profuse telangiectasias in an immunocompetent patient misleading presentation revealing a hepatosplenic‐Tγδ‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Diarra Ava , Carpentier Benjamin , Dubois Romain , Poulain Stéphanie , Klapisz Leo , Terriou Louis , Farhat Meryem‐Maud
Published: March 2022

Here we present the case of an hepato‐splenic‐Tγδ‐cell lymphoma interestingly occurring in a non‐immunocompromised patient, with profuse telangiectasias giving originally misleading orientation towards the diagnosis of B angiotropic lymphoma.
Superacid Catalysis: Direct Esterification of Turpentine Oil with Acetic Acid
Authors: Mendonça Barbara Silva , Marques Isabel Oliveira , Pena Jesus Marcelo , Cella Rodrigo
Published: March 2022

Terpenyl acetate, which is used for the production of flavors and fragrances, is industrially prepared from turpentine oil in a two‐step process including hydration and catalytic esterification. Such processes have several shortcomings like too‐large amounts of catalysts, non‐recyclability of catalysts, long reaction times, and serious environmental pollution. Here, a direct one‐step synthesis of terpenyl acetate from a feed mixture of turpentine oil and acetic acid with fluoroantimonic acid as superacid catalyst is described. Only 0.2 mol % of catalyst is necessary for up to 96 % conversion of starting material at room temperature. The desired product was obtained with a selectivity of up to 60 %. Thus, a clean and environmentally friendly strategy for synthesizing α‐terpenyl acetate is provided.
Different Topologies of Hg(II)‐Bispidine 1D Coordination Polymers: Dynamic Behavior in Solvent Adsorption and Exchange Processes
Authors: Lippi Martina , Murelli Andrea , Rossi Patrizia , Paoli Paola , Cametti Massimo
Published: March 2022

One‐dimensional (1D) coordination polymers (CPs) featuring three different topologies, comprising zig‐zag, ribbon‐like and poly‐[n]‐catenane structures, were obtained by reaction of Hg(II) ions with a novel bispidine ligand L3, and structurally characterized by SC‐ and P‐XRD methods. The CPs obtained in the form of microcrystalline powders were tested for their ability to undergo solvent adsorption and exchange by P‐XRD and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The extent of their dynamic behavior was then correlated to their structural features, highlighting the role of interchain interactions established among their constituting linear arrays. Zig‐zag CPs proved to be resilient to external chemical stimuli, while they differently respond to thermal treatments, depending on the solvent originally included within the CP. In the case of polycatenated structures, we observed transformations where the original topology was maintained upon guest exchange, but also cases where it changed to zig‐zag, even under solid/vapor conditions (i. e., no complete dissolution of the CP). Given the presence of linear interconnected 1D channels, 3 ⋅ ClBz‐polycatenanePwd is also able to trap volatile guests such as n‐hexane when exposed to its vapors.
Analysis and Simplification of Kinetic Models for Methane Chlorination and Pyrolysis
Authors: Keuchel Florian , Heinlein Moritz , Hohlmann Jan , Agar David W.
Published: March 2022

So far, no complete reaction mechanism has been proposed for high temperature chlorination and pyrolysis of methane. Various mechanisms for the description of this reaction pathway are combined and compared in this paper. This adaptation shows that the gas phase pyrolysis of methane and methyl chloride can be combined with surface reactions via nucleation from the gas phase or on the reactor wall to reproduce the product spectrum. In addition, kinetic parameters for a global simplified one‐step mechanism focused on the formation of carbon are fitted to available experimental data.
Atomic Vacancies in Transition Metal Dichalcogenides: Properties, Fabrication, and Limits
Authors: Cavallini Massimiliano , Gentili Denis
Published: March 2022

Structural defects, such as heteroatoms or atomic vacancies, are always present in materials and significantly affect their physical properties, in both positive or unwanted ways. Interestingly, defects generate an impressive range of functionalities in many materials, such as catalysis, electrical and thermal conductivity tuning, thermoelectricity, enhanced ion storage, magnetism, and others. These properties enable the use of defective materials in a great variety of technological applications. Here we review the principal properties generated by atomic vacancies in 2D compounds and thin films of transition metal dichalcogenides and the most consolidated methods for their formation and engineering. Eventually, we critically analysed the most important advantages, the limits and the current open challenges.
Effect of toroidal particle sources on SOL physics in the FT‐2 tokamak
Authors: Albert Devasagayam Francis Clinton Prasanth , Chôné Laurent , Kiviniemi Timo Petteri , Kaledina Oksana , Shatalin Sergei , Gurchenko Alexey Dmitrievich , Altukhov Alexey , Gusakov Evgeniy , Kantor Mikhail , Kouprienko Denis , Lashkul Sergei
Published: March 2022

Two gas‐puffs are used near limiters in the FT‐2 tokamak for the purpose of hydrogen refuelling during plasma discharges. This creates toroidal and poloidal asymmetry in particle sources near limiters which has to be considered in modelling. Here, the effect of toroidal asymmetry is simulated using the gyrokinetic code ELMFIRE. Two slightly different toroidal particle sources are used in simulations, and their results are compared with each other, and with experimental measurements to understand the impact of toroidal particle sources on Scrape‐off Layer (SOL) physics.
Modeling and reliability verification of industrial control network protocol based on time state transition matrix
Authors: Wang Jie , Wu Xintao , Hou Gang , Li Pengfei , Gao Ao , Chen Zhichao , Gao Haoyu
Published: March 2022

With the improvement of industrial informatization, various industrial control system network protocols have also been widely used. The reliability of these protocols will directly affect the safety of industrial control systems. As an effective method that can automatically analyze system reliability, model checking has been widely used in the verification of various safety‐critical systems. In this paper, we propose a modeling design method for industrial control network protocol based on time semantic reconstruction of time state transition matrix (TSTM). In addition, we provide a TSTM model checking method based on linear temporal logic (LTL). In order to effectively alleviate the state space explosion, the method adopts bounded model checking (BMC) technology. Furthermore, we implement a TSTM model verification tool called ICPV. Finally, we apply the above method to the modeling and verification of the industrial control network protocol Powerlink and through a comparison experiment with UPPAAL to illustrate the effectiveness of the method proposed in this paper.
Airborne environmental DNA metabarcoding for the monitoring of terrestrial insects—A proof of concept from the field
Authors: Roger Fabian , Ghanavi Hamid R. , Danielsson Natalie , Wahlberg Niklas , Löndahl Jakob , Pettersson Lars B. , Andersson Georg K. S. , Boke Olén Niklas , Clough Yann
Published: March 2022

Biodiversity is in decline due to human‐induced pressures on ecosystems around the world. To be able to counteract this alarming trend, it is paramount to closely monitor biodiversity at global scales. Because this is practically impossible with traditional methods, the last decade has seen a strong push for new solutions. In aquatic ecosystems, the monitoring of species from environmental DNA (eDNA) has emerged as one of the most powerful tools at our disposal, but in terrestrial ecosystems, the power of eDNA for monitoring has so far been hampered by the local scale of the samples. In this study, we report the successful detection of insects from airborne eDNA from samples taken in the field. We compare our results to two traditional insect monitoring methods (1) light traps for moth monitoring and (2) transect walks for the monitoring of butterflies and wild bees. Airborne eDNA metabarcoding revealed DNA from six classes of arthropods, and twelve order of insects—including representatives from the four largest orders: Diptera (flies), Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), Coleoptera (beetles), and Hymenoptera (bees, wasps, and ants). We did not detect all species observed using traditional methods and suggest further directions for the development of airborne eDNA metabarcoding. We also recovered DNA from nine species of vertebrates, including frogs, birds, and mammals as well as from 12 other phyla. Airborne eDNA has the potential to become a powerful tool for terrestrial biodiversity monitoring, with many impactful applications including the monitoring of pests, invasive, or endangered species and disease vectors.
Defining changes in physical limitation from the patient perspective: insights from the VITALITY‐HFpEF randomized trial
Authors: Butler Javed , Spertus John A. , Bamber Luke , Khan Muhammad Shahzeb , Roessig Lothar , Vlajnic Vanja , Norquist Josephine M. , Anstrom Kevin J. , Blaustein Robert O. , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Armstrong Paul W. ,   VITALITY‐HFpEF Study Group
Published: March 2022

Aims

Clinically important thresholds in patient‐reported outcomes measures like the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) have not been defined for patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The aim of this study was to estimate meaningful thresholds for improvement or worsening in the KCCQ physical limitation score (PLS) in patients with HFpEF.

Methods and results

In this pre‐specified analysis from VITALITY‐HFpEF, anchor‐ and distribution‐based approaches were used to estimate thresholds for improvement or worsening in the KCCQ‐PLS using Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) as an anchor. The KCCQ‐PLS contains six elements, with each increment in response resulting in a change of 4.17 points when converted to a 0–100 scale. The mean change in KCCQ‐PLS from baseline to week 12 was calculated for each PGIC group to estimate a meaningful within‐patient change. Of 789 patients enrolled, 698 had complete KCCQ‐PLS and PGIC data at week 12. The mean (± standard deviation) changes in KCCQ‐PLS corresponding to PGIC changes of ‘a little better’, ‘better’, and ‘much better’ were 5.7 ± 18.6, 11.6 ± 19.3, and 18.4 ± 25.3 points, respectively. The scores of patients who responded ‘a little better’ (n = 177) overlapped substantially with those who reported ‘no change’ (n = 193; mean change 2.8 ± 18.9). The mean change in KCCQ‐PLS for patients responding ‘a little worse’ (n = 32) was −2.6 ± 18.0 points. The threshold for meaningful within‐patient change in KCCQ‐PLS based on distribution‐based analyses was 12.3 points. Using area under the curve (AUC) analyses of KCCQ‐PLS, the sensitivity and specificity of a 4.17‐point change were 0.61 and 0.57, for an 8.33‐point change they were 0.49 and 0.64, and for a 12.5‐point change they were 0.44 and 0.72 for being at least a little better on the PGIC (AUC = 0.54).

Conclusion

In the VITALITY‐HFpEF trial, a change in KCCQ‐PLS of ≥8.33 points (corresponding to an improvement in ≥2 response categories of KCCQ‐PLS) may represent the minimal clinically important difference for improvement and a change of ≤ −4.17 points (corresponding to a worsening in ≥1 response category of KCCQ‐PLS) may suggest deterioration in patients with HFpEF.
A single‐blind, randomized, pilot study of a brief mindfulness‐based intervention for the endometriosis‐related pain management
Authors: Moreira Marcelo de França , Gamboa Olga Lucia , Pinho Oliveira Marco Aurelio
Published: March 2022

Background

Women with endometriosis suffer from frequent symptoms despite multiple treatments in tertiary care. Although there is a need for a biopsychosocial perspective on endometriosis treatment, few conservative treatments have been investigated. We aimed to investigate the effects of a brief Mindfulness‐Based Intervention (bMBI) in women with deep endometriosis who remain symptomatic despite undergoing conventional medical treatment.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was performed with two groups: a standard medical treatment plus bMBI program and only standard medical treatment as a control. A total of 63 eligible participants were randomized to bMBI and control groups. The primary outcome was endometriosis‐related pain, and secondary outcomes were quality of life and stress perception post‐treatment. Analyses were carried out using multiple regression models.

Results

The results show that bMBI significantly improved pain unpleasantness (Cohen's f2 = 0.67, NNT = 3.2), pelvic pain (Cohen's f2 = 0.16, NNT = 5.3) and dyschezia (Cohen's f2 = 0.23, NNT = 2.9) immediately post‐treatment and decreased all endometriosis‐related pain (Cohen's f2 ranging from 0.20 to 0.60 and NNT ranging from 5 to −9) after the follow‐up. We found an extensive positive effect of bMBI on the mental health dimension in the two time point measures (Cohen's f2 = 0.34 and 0.25, NNT = 3.5 and 2.3) and vitality (Cohen's f2 = 0.22, NNT = 2.1) after the follow‐up.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that bMBI is useful for managing endometriosis‐related pain and restoring women's psychological well‐being.

Significance

Brief Mindfulness‐Based Intervention (bMBI) improved endometriosis‐related pain and mental health compared to standard medical care. The present findings contribute to the applicability of MBI in visceral pain patients.