bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bouncing as a distinguishable structural feature of srpsko kolo: Aspects of identification and notation
Authors: Rakočević Selena
Published: June 2021

Kolo or kolo u tri, as it is termed by scholars, is the most widespread dance genre in Serbia since World War II, which has been considered as a vital symbol of Serbian national identity in recent decades and, consequently, got the adjective srpsko (Serbian). The movement pattern of kolo has been notated in Rudolf Laban's kinetography many times by various researchers since the 1980s and its microstructural and formal shaping has been the subject of ethnochoreological analysis in Serbia. However, the performing and notational particularities of the stretching and bending leg movements, which affect the vertical motion of the center of gravity of the body - the socalled bouncing, that is its distinguishable characteristic, has not been discussed previously. This article, therefore, explores some aspects of the performance and notation of bouncing in srpsko kolo.
C, F-sharp and E-flat: The tragic, the sublime and the oppressed (with C-sharp as Nemesis): Reflections on Eine kleine Trauermusik by Milan Mihajlović
Authors: Zatkalik Miloš
Published: June 2021

In the present paper, I will discuss tonal centers and referential sonorities in the composition Eine kleine Trauermusik (1992) by one of the leading Serbian composers Milan Mihajlović. Even though its pitch structure may appear rather straightforward with its octatonic scale and the primary tonal center in C, and with referential (quasi-tonic) chords derived from the harmonic series, I intend to highlight intricate narrative trajectories and dramatic conflicts between various tonal centers (treated as actors/characters). These narratives can be related to certain archetypal plots, with the conclusion that there exists ambiguity between the tragic and the ironic archetype. On a higher plane, similar conflict/interplay/ambiguity exists between different principles of pitch organization, i.e. the octatonic and functionally tonal. The unresolved ambiguities and simultaneity of conflicting interpretations are examined from the psychoanalytic perspective, which postulates isomorphism between musical structures and processes and the processes unfolding in the unconscious mind. Finally, the effect of these narratives, especially the overwhelming impact induced by the excerpt from Mozart's piano concerto is linked with the idea of sublime as conceived by Kant, but also including other approaches (Burke, Lyotard etc.).
Religião, revelação, textos sagrados
Authors: Dietrich Luiz José , Silva Cássio Murilo Dias da
Published: June 2021

Este artigo discute alguns aspectos de dois elementos comuns às mais diversas religiões: o conceito de revelação e a aceitação de um corpo literário normativo, isto é, um cânon. Os processos que levam as religiões a se constituírem são semelhantes em todas as culturas. Uma abordagem crítica e comparativa demonstra a falácia do discurso que defende um modelo religioso como o único verdadeiro. Paralelamente, uma nova concepção de revelação abre caminhos para o diálogo e o respeito. Pontos relevantes do processo de redação do texto bíblico e de definição dos cânones judaico e cristão servem de exemplo para rebater o uso da Bíblia como fundamento de práticas de truculência, intolerância e desprezo pelo que não é “cristão”.
Amor compassivo e suas relações com a religiosidade e a espiritualidade
Authors: Freitas Marta Helena , Neto Félix
Published: June 2021

Este trabalho apresenta, inicialmente, como o amor compassivo tem sido conceituado na literatura, apontando sua especificidade em relação aos demais tipos de amor. Em seguida, discorre acerca das relações entre amor compassivo, religiosidade e espiritualidade, ilustrando com resultados de algumas pesquisas desenvolvidas nos contextos brasileiro e português.
Research progress of preparation of large-scale two-dimensional magnetic materials and manipulation of Curie temperature
Authors: Wang Hai-Yu , Liu Ying-Jie , Xun Lu-Lu , Li Jing , Yang Qing , Tian Qi-Yun , Nie Tian-Xiao , Zhao Wei-Sheng ,   Fert Beijing Institute, MIIT Key Laboratory of Spintronics, School of Integrated Circuit Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China,   Shenyuan Honors College, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
Published: June 2021

To date, despite the continuous improvement of integrated circuit manufacturing technology, it has been limited by quantum effects and the shrinking of device size has caused the industry to encounter bottlenecks such as low reliability and high power consumption. The “Moore’s Law” that has lasted for nearly 50 years in the microelectronics industry will not be sustainable. In 2004, the advent of graphene, a two-dimensional (2D) material, brought new opportunities to break through the power consumption bottleneck of integrated circuits. Due to the low dimensionality, 2D materials exhibit a variety of fasinatingly electrical, ferromagnetic, mechanical, and optical properties at an atomic level. Among them, ferromagnetism has a wide range of applications in information processing, magnetic memory and other technologies. However, only a few 2D ferromagnetic materials are successfully synthesized. Meanwhile, the magnetic long-range order will be strongly suppressed within a limited temperature range due to thermal fluctuations, and thus bringing non-ignorable limitations and challenges to subsequent work. Therefore, the realization and control of room-temperature ferromagnetism in 2D magnetic materials is the major concern at this stage. In light of the above, this review first introduces the development process, preparation methods and superior properties of 2D magnetic materials in detail, and then focuses on the methods of manipulating the Curie temperature of 2D magnetic material. Finally, we briefly give an outlook of the application prospects in the future.
Effects of Typical Athletic Shoes on Postural Balance According to Foot Type
Authors: Yi Tae Im , Kim Kee Hoon , Choe Yeo Reum , Kim Sung Heon , Kim Joo Sup , Hwang Ji Hye
Published: June 2021

Background

The effects of shoes and foot type on balance are unclear. We aimed to investigate the differences between static and dynamic balance among three foot types and the changes in postural balance while wearing typical athletic shoes.

Methods

Based on the Foot Posture Index, the feet of 39 participants were classified as pronated, neutral, or supinated by a physiatrist. Static and dynamic balance function were assessed by center of gravity (COG) sway velocity with eyes open and eyes closed and a modified Star Excursion Balance Test in a random order with participants either barefoot or wearing shoes.

Results

The COG sway velocity was significantly higher in the supinated foot group than in the neutral foot group (barefoot: eyes open, P = .004, eyes closed, P = .001). Normalized composite reach distance (NCRD) was significantly lower in the pronated and supinated foot groups (barefoot: P = .039, P = .008; shoes: P = .018, P = .018). In all three foot type groups, COG sway velocity was significantly decreased (P < .05) and NCRD was significantly increased (P < .05) while wearing typical athletic shoes.

Conclusions

The medial longitudinal arch of the foot affects postural balance. Typical athletic shoes improve postural balance regardless of foot type. However, the pronated and supinated foot groups still had lower dynamic postural balance compared with the neutral foot group, even when wearing athletic shoes. People with pronated and supinated feet may need additional interventions, such as foot orthoses or balance training.
Multiple Metatarsal Fractures: The First Manifestation of Cushing's Disease—A Case Report
Authors: Molnar Vilim , Zekan Paulo , Dušek Tina , Ivković Alan
Published: June 2021

Cushing's syndrome is an uncommon clinical condition most frequently presenting with central obesity, facial rounding, proximal muscle weakness, and skin thinning. The objective of this case report is to highlight an unusual presentation of Cushing's syndrome. A 35-year-old woman presented to the orthopedic clinic with a 1-year history of foot pain without any history of trauma. Radiography of the foot showed multiple metatarsal fractures. Evaluation for secondary causes of reduced bone strength revealed that the patient had Cushing's disease, although other typical signs and symptoms were not remarkable. It can be concluded that Cushing's syndrome should always be included in the differential diagnosis of foot fracture without any evidence of trauma.
Compi: a framework for portable and reproducible pipelines
Authors: López-Fernández Hugo , Graña-Castro Osvaldo , Nogueira-Rodríguez Alba , Reboiro-Jato Miguel , Glez-Peña Daniel
Published: June 2021

Compi is an application framework to develop end-user, pipeline-based applications with a primary emphasis on: (i) user interface generation, by automatically generating a command-line interface based on the pipeline specific parameter definitions; (ii) application packaging, with compi-dk, which is a version-control-friendly tool to package the pipeline application and its dependencies into a Docker image; and (iii) application distribution provided through a public repository of Compi pipelines, named Compi Hub, which allows users to discover, browse and reuse them easily. By addressing these three aspects, Compi goes beyond traditional workflow engines, having been specially designed for researchers who want to take advantage of common workflow engine features (such as automatic job scheduling or logging, among others) while keeping the simplicity and readability of shell scripts without the need to learn a new programming language. Here we discuss the design of various pipelines developed with Compi to describe its main functionalities, as well as to highlight the similarities and differences with similar tools that are available. An open-source distribution under the Apache 2.0 License is available from GitHub (available at https://github.com/sing-group/compi). Documentation and installers are available from https://www.sing-group.org/compi. A specific repository for Compi pipelines is available from Compi Hub (available at https://www.sing-group.org/compihub.
Selective oversampling approach for strongly imbalanced data
Authors: Gnip Peter , Vokorokos Liberios , Drotár Peter
Published: June 2021

Challenges posed by imbalanced data are encountered in many real-world applications. One of the possible approaches to improve the classifier performance on imbalanced data is oversampling. In this paper, we propose the new selective oversampling approach (SOA) that first isolates the most representative samples from minority classes by using an outlier detection technique and then utilizes these samples for synthetic oversampling. We show that the proposed approach improves the performance of two state-of-the-art oversampling methods, namely, the synthetic minority oversampling technique and adaptive synthetic sampling. The prediction performance is evaluated on four synthetic datasets and four real-world datasets, and the proposed SOA methods always achieved the same or better performance than other considered existing oversampling methods.
Dynamics of rumen bacterial composition of yak (Bos grunniens) in response to dietary supplements during the cold season
Authors: Ahmad Anum Ali , Zhang Jian Bo , Liang Zeyi , Yang Chao , Kalwar Qudratullah , Shah Tariq , Du Mei , Muhammad Ishaq , Zheng Juanshan , Yan Ping , Ding Xue-Zhi , Long Ruijun
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to explore the rumen bacterial community of yak in response to dietary supplements during the cold season. In addition, the rumen fermentation products were also analyzed. Twenty-one female domestic yaks were randomly divided into three groups i.e., pure grazing (GG) group, grazing plus oats hay supplement (OG) group, and grazing plus concentrate supplement group (CG). Rumen contents were collected after 90 days to assess rumen fermentation parameters and bacterial community. The GC group presented higher concentrations of ammonia nitrogen (P < 0.001), and total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) (P < 0.001), and lower rumen pH (P < 0.001) compared to other experimental groups. The CG group displayed higher proportions of propionate, butyrate, isobutyrate, and isovalerate while lower A/P ratio compared to other experimental groups. Shannon, Chao1, and ACE values were significantly lower in the OG group compared to GG and CG groups. Anosim test showed significant differences in bacterial community structure between groups but the PCA plot was not very informative to see these differences. Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, and Firmicutes were the three dominant phyla in all groups. The genera Oscillospira was more abundant in GG and OG groups. Higher relative abundance of Ruminococcus and Clostridium was observed in the GG group, while Ruminobacter, Corynebacterium, and Selenomonas were more abundant in the CG group. These findings will help in improving our understanding of rumen bacteria in yaks in response to changes in diet.
Tailoring Ordered Mesoporous Titania Films via Introducing Germanium Nanocrystals for Enhanced Electron Transfer Photoanodes for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Li Nian , Guo Renjun , Chen Wei , Körstgens Volker , Heger Julian E. , Liang Suzhe , Brett Calvin J. , Hossain Md Asjad , Zheng Jianshu , Deimel Peter S. , Buyruk Ali , Allegretti Francesco , Schwartzkopf Matthias , Veinot Jonathan G. C. , Schmitz Guido , Barth Johannes V. , Ameri Tayebeh , Roth Stephan V. , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: June 2021

Based on a diblock‐copolymer templated sol–gel synthesis, germanium nanocrystals (GeNCs) are introduced to tailor mesoporous titania (TiO2) films for obtaining more efficient anodes for photovoltaic applications. After thermal annealing in air, the hybrid films with different GeNC content are investigated and compared with films undergoing an argon atmosphere annealing. The surface and inner morphologies of the TiO2/GeOx nanocomposite films are probed via scanning electron microscopy and grazing‐incidence small‐angle X‐ray scattering. The crystal phase, chemical composition, and optical properties of the nanocomposite films are examined with transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. Special focus is set on the air‐annealed nanocomposite films since they hold greater promise for photovoltaics. Specifically, the charge–carrier dynamics of these air‐annealed nanocomposite films are studied, and it is found that, compared with pristine TiO2 photoanodes, the GeNC addition enhances the electron transfer, yielding an increase in the short‐circuit photocurrent density of exemplary perovskite solar cells and thus, an enhanced device efficiency as well as a significantly reduced hysteresis.
Recent Progress on Perovskite Surfaces and Interfaces in Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Luo Deying , Li Xiaoyue , Dumont Antoine , Yu Hongyu , Lu Zheng‐Hong
Published: June 2021

Surfaces and heterojunction interfaces, where defects and energy levels dictate charge‐carrier dynamics in optoelectronic devices, are critical for unlocking the full potential of perovskite semiconductors. In this progress report, chemical structures of perovskite surfaces are discussed and basic physical rules for the band alignment are summarized at various perovskite interfaces. Common perovskite surfaces are typically decorated by various compositional and structural defects such as residual surface reactants, discrete nanoclusters, reactions by products, vacancies, interstitials, antisites, etc. Some of these surface species induce deep‐level defect states in the forbidden band forming very harmful charge‐carrier traps and affect negatively the interface band alignments for achieving optimal device performance. Herein, an overview of research progresses on surface and interface engineering is provided to minimize deep‐level defect states. The reviewed subjects include selection of interface and substrate buffer layers for growing better crystals, materials and processing methods for surface passivation, the surface catalyst for microstructure transformations, organic semiconductors for charge extraction or injection, heterojunctions with wide bandgap perovskites or nanocrystals for mitigating defects, and electrode interlayer for preventing interdiffusion and reactions. These surface and interface engineering strategies are shown to be critical in boosting device performance for both solar cells and light‐emitting diodes.
The Role of the Atmosphere on the Photophysics of Ligand‐Free Lead‐Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals
Authors: Morán‐Pedroso María , Rubino Andrea , Calvo Mauricio E. , Espinós Juan P. , Galisteo‐López Juan F. , Míguez Hernán
Published: June 2021

Lead halide perovskite (LHP) nanocrystals (NCs) have gained attention over the past decade due to their outstanding optoelectronic properties, making them a suitable material for efficient photovoltaic and light emitting devices. Due to its soft nature, these nanostructures undergo strong structural changes upon irradiation, where these light‐induced processes are strongly influenced by the environment. Since most processing routes for LHP NCs are based on colloidal approaches, the role of factors such as stabilizing ligands or solvents is usually hard to disentangle from the interaction of external radiation with the perovskite material. Employing a recently proposed synthetic approach, where ligand‐free NCs can be grown within metal‐oxide‐based insulating nanoporous matrices, it has been feasible to perform a clean study of the effect of the surrounding atmosphere on the photophysical properties of perovskite NCs, avoiding the interference of protective capping layers or solvents. Simultaneous light‐induced photo‐activation and darkening processes are monitored and disentangled, and their relation with bulk and surface processes, respectively, demonstrated.
Patternable and Rewritable Retroreflective Structural Color Shape Memory Polymers
Authors: Ji Cuiping , Chen Min , Wu Limin
Published: June 2021

Almost all the shape memory structural color materials are based on the photonic crystal color mechanism, and there remain great challenges such as iridescent colors, hard fabrication, etc. Herein, a new kind of shape memory retroreflective structural color film (SMRSCF) is fabricated through the “two‐template” method, based on the mechanisms of retroreflection and interference combined with total internal reflection. Different from photonic crystal color shape memory materials, this new SMRSCF displays brilliant monochromatic, polychromatic, complex, and stitched patterns, respectively, depending upon the flexibly customized templates. The shape memory polymers can further endow the film with excellent reusability and rewritability. This SMRSCF and its fabrication method provide a new design strategy to construct shape memory structural color materials.
Ultrasound‐Triggered In Situ Gelation to Overcome Tumor Hypoxia for Enhanced Photodynamic and Sustained Chemotherapy
Authors: Zhu Jiawei , Wang Xiaorui , Yang Dongliang , Song Xuejiao , Li Buhong , Wang Wenjun , Dong Xiaochen
Published: June 2021

The combination of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and chemotherapy (CT) has promising potential for cancer treatment in overcoming drug resistance and subsequently enhancing the therapeutic efficiency. However, the tumor hypoxia and premature release of drugs as well as off‐targeting of the established nanocarrier are still the major challenges. Herein, an ultrasound (US)‐triggered in situ hydrogel system is designed to overcome tumor hypoxia and combine PDT and CT (AIPH/PEGDA/DOX/CAT‐Ce6). After ultrasonic treatment, the 2,2′‐azobis[2‐(2‐imidazolin‐2‐yl) propane] dihydrochloride (AIPH) will decompose and release a large amount of alkyl radicals, which can activate the crosslink reaction of poly(ethylene glycol) double acrylate (PEGDA) through the amide bond to form the hydrogel structure. This system can achieve the long‐term immobilization of CAT‐Ce6 and doxorubicin (DOX) at tumor site. Owing to the long‐term retention of the hydrogel, the tumor hypoxia can be persistently relieved under the action of CAT and the effect of PDT can be greatly enhanced. Meanwhile, the sustained release of DOX from the hydrogel can achieve the long‐term chemotherapy. In vivo experiment demonstrates that the combination of repeatable PDT and sustained chemotherapy based on US‐triggered hydrogel system shows a synergistic effect in antitumor therapy without obvious side‐effect.
Photoredox Catalytic Phosphite‐Mediated Deoxygenation of α‐Diketones Enables Wolff Rearrangement and Staudinger Synthesis of β‐Lactams
Authors: Yang Hui , Li Haijun , Wei Guo , Jiang Zhiyong
Published: June 2021

A novel visible‐light‐driven catalytic activation of C=O bonds by exploiting the photoredox chemistry of 1,3,2‐dioxaphospholes, readily accessible from α‐diketones and trialkyl phosphites, is reported. This mild and environmentally friendly strategy provides an unprecedented and efficient access to the Wolff rearrangement reaction which traditionally entails α‐diazoketones as precursors. The resulting ketenes could be precisely trapped by alcohols/thiols to give α‐aryl (thio)acetates and by imines to afford the valuable β‐lactams in up to 99 % yields.
Editing Light Emission with Stable Crystalline Covalent Organic Frameworks via Wall Surface Perturbation
Authors: Li Zhongping , Geng Keyu , He Ting , Tan Ke Tian , Huang Ning , Jiang Qiuhong , Nagao Yuki , Jiang Donglin
Published: June 2021

The ordered π skeletons of covalent organic frameworks make them viable light‐emitting materials but their limited tunability has precluded further implementation. Here we report the synthesis of hydrazone‐linked frameworks which are stable in water, acid, and base, and demonstrate their utility as a platform for light emission. The polygonal backbone is designed to be luminescent and partially π conjugated while the pore wall is docked with single atom or unit to induce resonance, hyperconjugation, and tautomerization effects. These effects can be transmitted to the backbone, so that the framework can emit three primary colors of light. The wall can be perturbated with multiple surface sites, rendering the material able to edit diverse emission colors in a predesignable and digital way. The systems show high activity, stability, tunability, and sensibility: a set of features attractive for light‐emitting and sensing applications.
Kinetic Selection in the Out‐of‐Equilibrium Autocatalytic Reaction Networks that Produce Macrocyclic Peptides
Authors: Miao Xiaoming , Paikar Arpita , Lerner Benjamin , Diskin‐Posner Yael , Shmul Guy , Semenov Sergey N.
Published: June 2021

Autocatalytic reaction networks are instrumental for validating scenarios for the emergence of life on Earth and for synthesizing life de novo. Here, we demonstrate that dimeric thioesters of tripeptides with the general structure (Cys‐Xxx‐Gly‐SEt)2 form strongly interconnected autocatalytic reaction networks that predominantly generate macrocyclic peptides up to 69 amino acids long. Some macrocycles of 6–12 amino acids were isolated from the product pool and were characterized by NMR spectroscopy and single‐crystal X‐ray analysis. We studied the autocatalytic formation of macrocycles in a flow reactor in the presence of acrylamide, whose conjugate addition to thiols served as a model “removal” reaction. These results indicate that even not template‐assisted autocatalytic production combined with competing removal of molecular species in an open compartment could be a feasible route for selecting functional molecules during the pre‐Darwinian stages of molecular evolution.
Metal scavenging and catalysis by periodic mesoporous organosilicas with 2,2′‐bipyridine metal chelating ligands
Authors: Waki Minoru , Inagaki Shinji
Published: June 2021

A periodic mesoporous organosilica containing 2,2′‐bipyridine (BPy‐PMO) was assessed as a metal scavenger and heterogeneous catalyst. The functionalized PMO was synthesized based on a modified version of a previously reported procedure and showed a large surface area with crystal‐like pore walls and uniformly small particles. The small BPy‐PMOs (s‐BPy‐PMOs) exhibited efficient adsorption and removal of palladium (Pd2+) and copper (Cu2+) ions from THF solutions, as confirmed by inductively coupled plasma and UV/vis spectroscopy analyses. The removal efficiencies for Pd and Cu were determined to be 99.9% and 97.5%, respectively. This material was also used to scavenge residual Pd and Cu from reagent solutions following Sonogashira–Hagihara coupling, during which C–C bonds are generated based on catalysis by these metals. Moreover, Pd2+supportings‐BPy‐PMO was found to act as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the Sonogashira–Hagihara coupling reaction and could be easily separated from the reaction solution by simple filtration and reused.
High‐toughening modification of polylactic acid by long‐chain hyperbranched polymers
Authors: Sun Jianjian , Jin Yujuan , Wang Bo , Tian Huafeng , Kang Kaier , Men Shuang , Weng Yunxuan
Published: June 2021

The hyperbranched polyester synthesized by “one‐step method” was grafted with stearic acid to obtain long‐chain hyperbranched polymers (LCHBPs) with a large number of long stearic acid chains at the end. By means of FTIR and 13C‐NMR characterization, it was proved that stearic acids were grafted onto hyperbranched polyesters (HBPE) to yield LCHBPs successfully. It was determined by GPC and hydroxyl value titration that the number average molecular weight of HBPE was 4.86 × 103 and the grafting rate of stearic acid was 47%. Polylactic acid (PLA)/LCHBPs blends were prepared by melt processing method. The results showed that comparing with neat PLA, the tensile strength of PLA/LCHBPs blends decreased slightly with the increase of LCHBPs, but still maintained a high level, while the elongation at break and the impact strength of the PLA with 3.0 phr LCHBPs were greatly improved by 1360.0% and 119.8%, respectively. In addition, the impacted fracture characteristics of PLA changed significantly from brittle fracture to ductile fracture after LCHBPs incorporation, with the formation of a large number of filamentous structures. Thus, LCHBPs was an excellent toughening modifier for PLA and the resulting blends with improved performance possess wider applications.
PTFE Enhances Discharge Performance of Carbon Cathodes in Potassium‐Oxygen Batteries**
Authors: Küpper Jannis , Jakobi Simon , Simon Ulrich
Published: June 2021

Potassium‐oxygen batteries (KOB) are a promising energy storage technology with high theoretical energy of 935 Wh/kg and long cycle life. Potential applications require the development of affordable cathode materials with high practical capacity. In this article, we show that low‐cost polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) treatment increases the discharge performance of a commercial carbon paper cathode. Cross‐sectional scanning electron microscopy reveals that PTFE alleviates mass transport limitations and facilitates homogeneous deposition of the discharge product potassium superoxide (KO2) within the cathode pore structure. Using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, we found that PTFE, in combination with the appropriate electrolyte volume, can prevent pore flooding by the electrolyte. Free volume permits fast, gaseous oxygen transport throughout the cathode, which lowers mass transfer resistances and improves the rate capability. Moreover, PTFE enables high pore volume filling by KO2 and, in turn, high discharge capacity. Our results demonstrate that controlling the mass transport is essential for high‐performance cathodes for KOB.
Akinetic mutism reversed by inferior parietal lobule repetitive theta burst stimulation: Can we restore default mode network function for therapeutic benefit?
Authors: Stephens Tressie M. , Young Isabella M. , O'Neal Christen M. , Dadario Nicholas B. , Briggs Robert G. , Teo Charles , Sughrue Michael E.
Published: June 2021

Background

Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a noninvasive treatment used to modulate cortical excitability. Its use over the last two decades has expanded, ranging from psychiatric disorders to traumatic brain injury and poststroke rehabilitation.

Objectives

We present the case of a 59‐year‐old male patient who presented in a decreased state of consciousness due to a right frontal glioblastoma, wherein his state was not improved by a successful surgery and could not be explained by any other condition. Due to his poor prognosis, we examine the benefits of receiving transcranial magnetic stimulation treatment to improve his akinetic mutism.

Methods

We utilized independent component analysis with resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) to better understand his cortical functionality. The imaging suggested absence of the default mode network (DMN). The patient underwent five sessions of navigated intermittent theta burst stimulation to the ipsilesional inferior parietal lobule and inferior frontal gyrus, with the aim of improving his default mode network functionality.

Results

No other treatments resulted in an improvement of this patient's condition; however, 3 weeks following transcranial magnetic stimulation treatment, the patient was more alert and interactive, and his follow‐up rsfMRI scan demonstrated a partially intact default mode network.

Conclusion

This case raises important questions regarding the clinical utility of transcranial magnetic stimulation to improve the connectivity of important cerebral networks and subsequent related functional recovery.
Sex worker homicides and sexual homicides: A comparative study of offender, victim, and offense characteristics
Authors: Chan Heng Choon (Oliver)
Published: June 2021

Sex workers are commonly claimed to be at heightened risk of fatal victimization. Although prior research indicates that the dynamics of sex worker homicides resemble sexual homicides more than nonsexual homicides, little is known about how these types of homicides compare in terms of offending patterns. This study considers a sample of 2,851 single‐victim, single‐offender homicide cases extracted from a 37‐year (1976–2012) US Supplementary Homicide Reports database, and compares the offender, victim, and offender characteristics of 243 sex worker homicides (189 males and 54 females) with those of 2608 sexual homicides (2474 males and 134 females). The findings suggest that the offender, victim, and offense characteristics of general, male‐offender, and female‐offender sex worker homicides are essentially different from the characteristics of sexual homicides. Logistic regressions further indicate that most offender, victim, and offense characteristics on the occurrence of general and male‐offender sex worker homicides were significantly associated with the perpetration of general and male‐offender sex worker homicides, with reference to sexual homicides. These findings offer insights relevant to the prioritization of criminal investigative practices.
Metabolic regulation in the immune response to cancer
Authors: Wu Qi , Yu Xin , Li Juanjuan , Sun Shengrong , Tu Yi
Published: June 2021

Metabolic reprogramming in tumor‐immune interactions is emerging as a key factor affecting pro‐inflammatory carcinogenic effects and anticancer immune responses. Therefore, dysregulated metabolites and their regulators affect both cancer progression and therapeutic response. Here, we describe the molecular mechanisms through which microenvironmental, systemic, and microbial metabolites potentially influence the host immune response to mediate malignant progression and therapeutic intervention. We summarized the primary interplaying factors that constitute metabolism, immunological reactions, and cancer with a focus on mechanistic aspects. Finally, we discussed the possibility of metabolic interventions at multiple levels to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapeutic and conventional approaches for future anticancer treatments.
The effect of prior cancer on non‐small cell lung cancer trial eligibility
Authors: Herman Michael , Liu Zhihui , Shepherd Frances A. , Leighl Natasha , Liu Geoffrey , Bradbury Penelope A.
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Approximately 20% of patients diagnosed with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have a history of prior (non‐lung) cancer. Patients with prior cancer are frequently excluded from clinical trials. We aimed to assess the potential impact of prior cancer on commonly used clinical trial endpoints.

Materials and Methods

Clinical trials of systemic therapy for incurable NSCLC from clinicaltrials.gov were reviewed to determine the frequency of exclusion on the basis of prior cancer. A cohort of patients with incurable NSCLC and prior cancer, treated with first‐line systemic treatment at our institution were reviewed as a surrogate clinical trial population. A list of priori events was developed to capture the potential for prior cancer to negatively affect clinical trial conduct or endpoints. The proportions of patients that developed an outcome were assessed.

Results

Among trials registered on clinicaltrials.gov, 66% listed prior cancer in the eligibility criteria, and of these 35% excluded patients with prior cancer in the last 5 years. Of NSCLC patients treated with systemic therapy at Princess Margaret Cancer Center, 20% had prior cancer, of these, breast (20%) and prostate (19%) were the most common malignancies. Median time between prior cancer and NSCLC was 82 months. Median survival was 20 months. For patients without evidence of active prior cancer at baseline, and not on active therapy for prior cancer, no patients had evidence of a recurrence of prior cancer during the treatment and follow‐up for the NSCLC, nor died from prior cancer. However, two patients developed new primaries.

Conclusions

A history of prior cancer has a low likelihood of impacting clinical trial endpoints in patients with incurable NSCLC, if not active or requiring treatment. These findings should be validated in larger data sets.
Pulmonary valve replacement with annulus enlargement for pulmonary valve infective endocarditis: A case report
Authors: Aizawa Kei , Horikoshi Ryohei , Shimizu Keisuke , Uesugi Satoshi , Sugaya Akira , Kurumisawa Soki , Itagaki Ryo , Kawahito Koji
Published: June 2021

Right‐sided infected endocarditis (IE) is very rare, especially PVIE accounts for 1.6%‐2.7% % of all IE cases. We successfully treated a IE of pulmonary valve patient with bioprosthetic valve and annulus enlargement with pericardial patch.
Tumor immune tissue response to a solitary fibrous tumor treated with pazopanib
Authors: Kawano Toshiaki , Hirano Takashi , Fujinaga Maki , Kadowaki Yoshinori , Matsunaga Takayuki , Tateyama Kaori , Kizu Yumi , Suzuki Masashi
Published: June 2021

In our case, tumor tissues were collected thrice during the course of treatment for immunohistological evaluation. The tumor was consistently positive for VEGF, suggesting that pazopanib was effective in the treatment of solitary fibrous tumor.
Case report describing balloon dilatation as a treatment for acute intraprosthetic regurgitation immediately following implantation of a SAPIEN‐3 transcatheter aortic valve
Authors: Pal Nikhil , Chew Derek , Sinhal Ajay
Published: June 2021

Acute intraprosthetic regurgitation is a rare but potentially devastating complication following the transcatheter aortic valve implantation; here, balloon dilatation could provide a potential treatment option for these patients.
Use of osteosynthesis titanium microplates in rhinoplasty
Authors: Xavier Rui , Amorim Hugo , Menger Dirk‐Jan , de Carvalho Henrique Cyrne , Spratley Jorge
Published: June 2021

Even in the most difficult clinical scenario of reconstructive rhinoplasty, a solid fixation of the nasal L‐strut is possible. Fixation by using titanium microplates screwed to the facial skull has proved to be stable two years after surgery, providing a good outcome.
A novel case of food poisoning caused by the consumption of Pacific bluefin tuna infected with Kudoahexapunctata
Authors: Tachibana Takayuki , Watari Takashi
Published: June 2021

Consumption of Japanese cuisine, such as sushi and sashimi, is accompanied by the risk of food poisoning through various pathogens. Kudoa hexapunctata, detected in both adult and juvenile Pacific bluefin tuna, causes foodborne diseases. Here, we report cases of food poisoning after Kudoa hexapunctata‐infected PBT consumption.

We suggest that medical history about the fish used in sashimi and sushi preparation is used to assist in making the diagnosis as Kudoa infection.
Thyroid disease and covid‐19 infection: Case series
Authors: Allam Magdy Mohamed , El‐Zawawy Hanaa Tarek , Ahmed Soha Magdy , Aly Abdelhamid Mohamed
Published: June 2021

Early and frequent evaluation of thyroid profile in COVID‐19 infected patients is crucial as it will influence thyroid disease sequelae and management in those patients; moreover, it will facilitate setting an appropriate management plan.
Dynamic clustering and routing using multi‐objective particle swarm optimization with Levy distribution for wireless sensor networks
Authors: S Jagadeesh , I Muthulakshmi
Published: June 2021

Energy‐efficient clustering and routing are two well‐known optimization problems, mainly employed to achieve energy efficiency and maximum network lifetime in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). The clustering and routing processes can be considered as an NP‐hard problem, and metaheuristic algorithms can be applied to resolve it. In this paper, a dynamic clustering and process protocol based on multi‐objective particle swarm optimization with Levy distribution (MOPSO‐L) algorithm. Since the parameters in WSN are related to one another, multi‐objective parameters should be included in the process of cluster head selection and routing. The proposed MOPSO‐L technique is presented for organizing the clusters and CH chosen by merging consolidated and shared models. The MOPSO‐L algorithm incorporates the benefits of PSO algorithm along with the merits of Levy distribution to escape from trapping into local optima. The presented model undergoes comparison with existing techniques under three different scenarios based on the location of the BS with respect to average energy consumption, number of data transmission, and network lifetime. The experimental outcome reveals that the proposed model attains extended network lifetime as well as efficient energy over its comparatives.
The role of competition and herbivory in biotic resistance against invaders: a synergistic effect
Authors: Santamaría Jorge , Tomas Fiona , Ballesteros Enric , Ruiz Juan M. , Bernardeau‐Esteller Jaime , Terrados Jorge , Cebrian Emma
Published: June 2021

Invasive species pose a major threat to global diversity, and once they are well established their eradication typically becomes unfeasible. However, certain natural mechanisms can increase the resistance of native communities to invaders and can be used to guide effective management policies. Both competition and herbivory have been identified as potential biotic resistance mechanisms that can limit plant invasiveness, but it is still under debate to what extent they might be effective against well‐established invaders. Surprisingly, whereas biotic mechanisms are known to interact strongly, most studies to date have examined single biotic mechanisms separately, which likely influences our understanding of the strength and effectiveness of biotic resistance against invaders. Here we use long‐term field data, benthic assemblage sampling, and exclusion experiments to assess the effect of native assemblage complexity and herbivory on the invasion dynamics of a successful invasive species, the algaCaulerpa cylindracea. A higher complexity of the native algal assemblage limitedC. cylindraceainvasion, probably through competition by canopy‐forming and erect algae. Additionally, high herbivory pressure by the fishSarpa salpareducedC. cylindraceaabundance by more than four times. However, long‐term data of the invasion reflects that biotic resistance strength can vary across the invasion process and it is only where high assemblage complexity is concomitant with high herbivory pressure, that the most significant limitation is observed (synergistic effect). Overall, the findings reported in this study highlight that neglecting the interactions between biotic mechanisms during invasive processes and restricting the studied time scales may lead to underestimations of the true capacity of native assemblages to develop resistance to invaders.
Assessment of extraction options for a next‐generation biofuel: Recovery of bio‐isobutanol from aqueous solutions
Authors: Fu Chuhan , Li Zhuoxi , Zhang Yulei , Yi Conghua , Xie Shaoqu
Published: June 2021

Isobutanol is a widely used platform compound and a raw material for synthesizing many high value‐added compounds. It also has excellent fuel properties and is an ideal gasoline additive or substitute with a very broad development space. Isobutanol production by biological fermentation has the advantages of a comprehensive source of raw materials, low cost, environmental protection, and sustainability. However, it also has disadvantages such as many impurities, low isobutanol concentration, and difficulty separating the water + isobutanol azeotrope. Thus, it is necessary to explore an appropriate downstream separation process for the water + isobutanol azeotrope. K2CO3 with a strong salting‐out effect was used as the salting‐out agent, and the salting‐out of isobutanol from aqueous solutions was investigated at 298.15 K. The effect of the initial salt concentration in the aqueous solution, the recovery of isobutanol, and the effect of dehydration were investigated in detail. The e‐NRTL‐RK model was employed to generate the binary parameters for isobutanol and water, and electrolyte pair parameters for water/isobutanol and ions to reproduce the phase diagram with high accuracy. The processes of solvent extractive distillation, and salting‐out + distillation were simulated by Aspen Plus. The energy consumptions for the solvent‐based and salting‐out‐based processes were compared. The salting‐out + distillation process turned out to be more energy‐saving than the solvent extraction process.
Experimental exergy analyses in aDIdiesel engine fuelled with a mixture of diesel fuel andTiO2nano‐particle
Authors: Jafarmadar Samad , Amini Niaki Seyed Reza
Published: June 2021

In this study, the operation of a four‐cylinder, four‐stroke DI diesel engine powered by fuels created by blending diesel and TiO2nanoparticles was evaluated based on energy and exergy analyses. Within the study's scope, it is possible to see the engine's performance, combustion, emission, and heat transfer distribution at various engine speeds. The engine was tested by operating it with diesel and fuel blends, diesel‐2.5 ppm TiO2. According to obtained results, it was found that by adding 2.5 ppm TiO2to diesel fuel, energy and exergy efficiency increased by 4.1% and 3%. Engine power and shaft exergy improved by 3.4%, and diesel‐2.5 ppm TiO2blends decreased irreversibility by 3.8%. Diesel‐2.5 ppm TiO2blended fuel decreases the exhaust loss exergy and exhaust heat losses by 2.5% and 1.4% and also uncounted heat losses reduced by 5.7% compared with baseline diesel. Moreover, the exergy transfer with cooling water increased by 10.5% compared with baseline diesel fuel. The brake specific fuel consumption was 3% lower for diesel and 2.5 ppm TiO2nanoparticle blended fuels. The engine fueled with blended fuel revealed mitigation in the UHC, CO, and Soot emissions than those of diesel fuel. NOx emission exhibited increasing trends with the blended fuel. It is concluded that diesel blend with the addition of TiO2nanoparticles exhibits better engine performance and reduced emissions compared to diesel fuel.
Multi‐objective optimization and techno‐economic analysis of CO2 utilization through direct synthesis of di‐methyl ether plant
Authors: Yasari Elham , Panahi Mehdi , Rafiee Ahmad
Published: June 2021

In this study, a multiobjective optimization problem (MOOP) with two objective functions (maximization of di‐methyl‐ether (DME) production rate and minimization of carbon dioxide release) was applied to the direct synthesis of DME from a natural gas‐derived synthesis gas (syngas). Twelve degrees of freedom were considered. The MOOP results suggest that the process with a maximum DME production rate of 1686 kmol/hr releases 4788 kmol/hr CO2 while the CO2 release of the process with DME production rate of 1282 kmol/hr is 1761 kmol/hr. The higher the DME production rate, the lower net CO2 emission to the air, natural gas consumption, and energy consumption per kg of the DME produced. In addition, the process with a higher DME production rate has a higher carbon efficiency and power production from the produced steam. The annual profit criteria of the overall process were used as a posterior preference index to select the best point from the resultant multiobjective optimization Pareto front. It was shown that the plant with the topmost DME production rate has the utmost annual profit compared to other Pareto optimum points. Lastly, the effect of degrees of freedom on the maximum DME production rate is discussed.
Evaluating a new landform evolution model: A case study using a proposed mine rehabilitation landform
Authors: Welivitiya W. D. Dimuth P. , Willgoose Garry R. , Hancock Greg R.
Published: June 2021

Landform evolution models are powerful tools for determining long‐term erosional stability and denudation rates spanning geological timescales. SIBERIA, CAESAR and CHILD are examples of these model. The newly developed State Space Soil Production and Assessment Model (SSSPAM) coupled soilscape‐landform evolution model has the ability to assess overall erosion rates of catchment scale landforms either using short‐term precipitation events, variable precipitation or time‐averaged precipitation (annual average). In addition, SSSPAM has the capability of developing the subsurface soil profile through weathering and armouring. In SSSPAM, physical processes of pedogenesis such as erosion and armouring, diffusion, sediment deposition and weathering are modelled using a state space matrix approach. In this article we simulate the short‐term evolution (100 years) of a proposed post‐mining landform using both SIBERIA and SSSPAM and compare the erosion and sediment output results. For the short‐term simulations SSSPAM's armouring capability was disabled. The models were then used to simulate the evolution of the catchment for 10,000 years. Results demonstrate that the short‐term SSSPAM simulation results compare well with the results from the established landform evolution model SIBERIA. The long‐term armouring disabled SSSPAM simulations produces simulated erosion rates comparable with SIBERIA simulations both of which are similar to upper limit of field measured denudation rates. The SSSPAM simulation using armouring demonstrated that armouring reduced the erosion rate of the catchment by a factor of 4 which is comparable with the lower limit of field measured denudation rates. This observation emphasizes the importance of armouring in long‐term evolution of landforms. Soil profile cross‐sections developed from the same results show that SSSPAM can also reproduce subsurface soil evolution and stratification and spatial variability of soil profile characteristics typically observed in the field.
Fighting to Be Heard: Latina Adolescent Girls Writing Toward Change
Authors: Flores Tracey T.
Published: June 2021

The author explores the words and writing of Rocky, Reyna, Blanca, and Elizabeth (grades 6–12) through their participation in Somos Escritoras/We Are Writers, a creative space for Latina girls and their parents. For 6 weeks, alongside their parents, girls used drawing and personal writing to dialogue about their experiences and bring into language the issues most important in their lives and worlds. Alongside one another, their writing served as a tool to define themselves and supported them in developing visions for the future. Their voices illuminate the urgency of connecting our writing classrooms and community spaces to the lives of youth to make writing relevant and meaningful in order to move our words into action.