bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biorational Management of Pulse Bettle (Callosobruchus chinensis L.) on Chickpea Seeds
Authors: Hasan Arafat , Hasan Mehedi , Akter Keya , Sultana Sonia , Wara Tasnia Ummul , Hasan Al-Mehedi
Published: January 2021

The pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis is one of the major insect pest in stored pulse (i.e. Chickpea seeds) causing 40-50% losses of pulses in storage. Experiments were conducted to study the efficacy of some selected biorational insecticides on mortality of beetle, weight loss of seeds, fecundity and hatchability of pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis under laboratory condition. Among the different botanicals, Neem oil (89.00%) was found the most effective in case of mortality of pulse beetle in direct method followed by Mahogany oil (78.00%) and Karanja oil (62.00%). Among different microbial derivatives, Spinosad was found most effective considering mortality followed by Emamectin benzoate and Abamectin. Among botanicals the highest percentage of weight reduction was observed in Karanja oil (30.18%) and the lowest (22.43%) was in Neem oil while among microbial derivatives the lowest percentage of seed weight reduction was obtained from Spinosad (11.15%) and the highest percentage of weight reduction was obtained from Abamectin (20.37%). No. of eggs laid per female was recorded highest in Karanja oil (24.00) and lowest in Spinosad (19.33). The hatchability percentage was highest in Karanza oil (21.73%) and lowest in Neem (12.89%) and in case of chemical treatment lowest in spinosad (6.05%) and highest in Ebamectin (14.42%). Neem oil and Spinosad were found effective against pulse beetle in storage condition. Therefore, Neem oil and Spinosad might be included in the development of IPM packages for the management of pulse beetle in the storage.
Optimization of Extraction and Dyeing Conditions of Natural Dye from Ratanjot Roots Using Ultrasonic Waves
Authors: Devi Oinam Roselyn , Bains Sandeep , Grewal Sumeet
Published: January 2021

The present work involves the optimization of extraction and dyeing recipes to standardize the procedure for natural dye obtained from the roots of Ratanjot (Onosma echiodes) using ultrasonic waves. The resultant dye obtained at optimized extraction conditions was applied on wool fabric to study the effect of temperature, dye concentration, time and dyeing pH. Optical density and colour strength (K/S value) were studied for evaluation of optimum extraction and dyeing conditions. It was observed that extraction and dyeing parameters have significant effect on colour characteristics of dyed wool fabric. The optimized extraction conditions were; dye extraction pH 7, extraction time 60 min and temperature 60ºC while optimized dyeing parameters were; dyeing temperature 60°C,  dye concentration 2 g/g, dyeing time 75 min and dyeing pH 5. It was also observed that the optimum dye extraction time and pH is same with the conventional heating method but there is reduction in the temperature (60°C), dyeing time and dye concentration consumption in ultrasonic extraction and dyeing method, thus saves the energy, time and amount of dye requirement. Therefore, ultrasound wave represents a promising method for increasing diffusion of dye by the effect of cavitation, as well as for improving the effectiveness of processes as compare to conventional heating method.
Assessment of Awareness and Utilization of Cocoa Production Technologies among Farmers in Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Awodumila D. J. , Ogunjobi T. E. , Orimogunje A. O. , Ogundeji B. A. , Agbebaku E. E. O. , Olorunmota R. T. , Adewoye G. A.
Published: January 2021

The study examined farmers’ awareness and utilization of cocoa production technologies in Oyo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study described the socio economic characteristics of the respondents, ascertained the levels of awareness and utilization of cocoa production technologies and identified the sources of information on cocoa production technologies by farmers. Multi stage random sampling was used to select one hundred and twenty (120) cocoa farmers. Data was collected using a comprehensive questionnaire and analysis was done using means, frequencies percentages, Chi square and Pearson Product Moment correlation (PPMC). The results revealed that 62.4% of the respondents were within age bracket (<30-50) years, male 83.3%, married 76.6%, mean house hold size 7.5 and mean farm size 4.1ha. There was relatively high awareness (60.8%) of cocoa production technologies among respondents. Also, there was high utilization of site selection/land preparation, control of pest insect and pathogens, regular weeding and timely harvesting /processing (x= 1.0), use of improved cocoa varieties, shade management and regular pruning (x=0.9). However, there was low utilization of gapping up of missing/death stands and planting period and spacing(x=0.7), cocoa rehabilitation (x=0.5) and appropriate fertilizer application with a means of 0.6. About 60% of the respondents accessed information from cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN). Chi-square analysis showed that there was significant relationship (p, < 0.005) between age (x=19.233) and utilization of cocoa production technologies. However, the significant relationship was not found between sex (x=0.754), marital status (x=3.359), religion (x=1.416), level of education (x=2.254) and utilization of cocoa production technologies. PPMC analysis (r=0.633) revealed that there was positive significant relationship between awareness and utilization of cocoa production technologies by respondents. Farmers need to be trained on various cocoa rehabilitation methods and improved cocoa varieties should be made available at affordable price to farmers.
Firm characteristics and Biological Asset Disclosure on Agricultural Firms
Authors: Carolina Anita , Kusumawati Fariyana , Chamalinda Khy'sh Nusri Leapatra
Published: January 2021

Agriculture firms are facing challenges on applying the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (PSAK) 69 which regulates the recognition, measurement, disclosure, presentation and reporting biological assets because of the unique trait of biological assets. This research aims to decide the factors that influence the biological asset disclosure by testing the effect of leverage, profitability, liquidity, firm’s growth, biological assets’ intensity, firm size, type of auditor, and listing status. The samples used in this research are the agriculture firms listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) between 2016 and 2018. The data are collected from the auditor financial statement. This research uses a quantitative method with multiple linear regression analysis. The conclusion is that the intensity of biological asset influences the biological asset disclosure, while leverage, profitability, liquidity, firm’s growth, firm size, type of auditor, and listing status do not influence the biological asset disclosure. This research contributes as literature for academics, gives knowledge about agriculture firm’s problems for the standard compiler, and improving the agriculture firms’ obediency in disclosing their biological asset following the PSAK 69
Automatic couch position calculation using eclipse scripting for external beam radiotherapy
Authors: Wang Hesheng , Rea Anthony , Rudek Benedikt , Chen Ting , McCarthy Allison , Barbee David
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The treatment couch position of a patient in external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) is usually acquired during initial treatment setup. This procedure has shown potential failure modes leading to near misses and adverse events in radiation treatment. This study aims to develop a method to automatically determine the couch position before setting up a patient for initial treatment.

Methods

The Qfix couch‐tops (kVue and DoseMax) have embedded reference marks (BBs) indicating its index levels and couch centerline. With the ESAPI, a C# script was programmed to automatically find the couch‐top and embedded BBs in the planning CT and derive the treatment couch position according to treatment isocenter of a plan. Couch positions of EBRT plans with the kVue couch‐top and SBRT plans using the DoseMax were calculated using the script. The calculation was evaluated by comparing calculated positions with couch coordinates captured during the initial treatment setup after image guidance. The calculations were further compared with daily treatment couch positions post image‐guided adjustment for each treatment fraction.

Results

For plans using the kVue couch‐top for various treatment sites, the median (5–95 percentiles) differences between calculated and captured couch positions were 0.1 (−0.2 – 0.9), 0.5 (−1.1–2.0), 0.10 (−1.3–1.3) cm in the vertical, longitudinal, and lateral direction respectively. For the DoseMax couch‐top, the median differences were 0.1 (−0.2–0.7), 0.2 (−0.3–1.1), and 0.2 (−0.7–0.9) cm in respective direction. The calculated positions were within 1 and 2 cm from the mean fraction positions for 95% patients on DoseMax and kVue couch‐top respectively.

Conclusions

A method that automatically and accurately calculates treatment couch position from simulation CT was implemented in Varian Eclipse for Qfix couch‐tops. This technique increases the efficiency of patient setup and enhances patient safety by reducing the risks of positioning errors.
Association of Renal Arteriosclerosis With Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Garg Shivani , Raval Amish N. , Hansen Karen E. , Zhong Weixiong , Huang Yabing , Smith Maureen , Panzer Sarah E. , Bartels Christie M.
Published: January 2021

Objective

Lupus nephritis (LN) predicts a 9‐fold higher atherosclerosis cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk, highlighting the urgent need to target ASCVD prevention. Studies in IgA nephropathy reported that severe renal arteriosclerosis (r‐ASCL) in diagnostic biopsies strongly predicted ASCVD risk. We recently found that 50% of LN pathology reports overlooked r‐ASCL reporting, which could explain prior negative LN ASCVD risk studies. The present study was undertaken to examine associations between a composite of reported and overread r‐ASCL and ASCVD events in LN.

Methods

Data were abstracted from all LN patients who underwent diagnostic biopsy between 1994 and 2017, including demographic information, ASCVD risk factors, and pathology reports at the time of LN diagnosis. We manually validated all incident ASCVD events. We overread 25% of the biopsies to grade r‐ASCL using the Banff criteria. We supplemented the overread r‐ASCL grade, when available, to determine the composite of reported and overread r‐ASCL grade.

Results

Among 189 incident LN patients, 78% were female, 73% White, and the median age was 25 years. Overall, 31% had any reported r‐ASCL, and 7% had moderate‐to‐severe r‐ASCL. After incorporating systematically re‐examined r‐ASCL grade, the prevalence of any and moderate‐to‐severe r‐ASCL increased to 39% and 12%, respectively. We found 22 incident ASCVD events over 11 years of follow‐up. Using a composite of reported and overread r‐ASCL grade, we found that severe r‐ASCL in diagnostic LN biopsies was associated with 9‐fold higher odds of ASCVD.

Conclusion

Severe r‐ASCL can predict ASCVD in LN; therefore, larger studies are required to systematically report r‐ASCL and examine ASCVD associations.
NAATP urges members to urge staff to get COVID‐19 vaccine
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: January 2021

Last month, the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended that all health care professionals be offered the first doses of COVID‐19 vaccines. Addiction treatment providers are essential health care staff, and they work with individuals at high risk for contracting the disease, a federal report from the CDC and the federal National Institute on Drug Abuse report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association last fall found.
Noninvasive Evaluation of HepaRG Aggregates during Drug‐Induced Intrahepatic Cholestasis Using Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Sonoi Rie , Yamakawa Takeshi , Nakatani Noriyuki , Kokubo Masahiko , Hagihara Yoshihisa
Published: January 2021

Intrahepatic cholestasis represents a typical manifestation of drug‐induced liver injury. Many researches have been made to understand the drug‐induced cholestasis using human cell based in vitro 3D model. Although noninvasive observation of 3D model will help unveil the hidden mechanism of this phenomenon, there have been few studies using the noninvasive methods. This study has attempted to evaluate the potential of noninvasive optical coherence tomography (OCT) combined with confocal laser scanning microscopy using the aggregates of a differentiated human hepatic cell line. From immunofluorescence staining images, the aggregates during drug‐induced cholestasis are divided into three groups: aggregates of mature phase (type I), immature phase (type II), and death phase (type III). OCT data reveal that different distributions of gray levels of OCT images are observed between heterogeneous (type I and II) and homogeneous cell populations (type III). A threshold based on gray levels of OCT data in each phenotype is determined, and the data can distinguish type III aggregates from the others. The results suggest that OCT data provide valuable information for noninvasively and quantitatively determining the transition of different types of cell population, i.e., from type I and II to type III, in drug‐induced intrahepatic cholestasis processes.
Thylakoid Membranes with Unique Photosystems Used to Simultaneously Produce Self‐Supplying Oxygen and Singlet Oxygen for Hypoxic Tumor Therapy
Authors: Cheng Yan , Zheng Runxiao , Wu Xiaqing , Xu Keqiang , Song Panpan , Wang Yanjing , Yan Jiao , Chen Rui , Li Xi , Zhang Haiyuan
Published: January 2021

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) efficacy has been dramatically limited by the insufficient oxygen (O2) level in hypoxic tumors. Although various PDT nanosystems have been designed to deliver or produce O2 in support of reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, the feature of asynchronous O2 generation and ROS formation still results in the low PDT efficacy. Herein, thylakoid membranes (TM) of chloroplasts is decorated on upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) to form UCTM NPs, aiming at realizing spatiotemporally synchronous O2 self‐supply and ROS production. Upon 980 nm laser irradiation, UC NPs can emit the red light to activate both photosystem‐I and photosystem‐II of TM, the Z‐scheme electronic structure of which facilitates water to produce O2 and further to singlet oxygen (1O2). UCTM NPs showed excellent biocompatibility, and can effectively remove the hypoxic tumor of mice upon 980 nm laser irradiation. This study develops a new PDT strategy for hypoxic tumor therapy based on photosynthesis.
A Graded, Porous Composite of Natural Biopolymers and Octacalcium Phosphate Guides Osteochondral Differentiation of Stem Cells
Authors: Amann Elisabeth , Amirall Amisel , Franco Albina R. , Poh Patrina S. P. , Sola Dueñas Francisco J. , Fuentes Estévez Gastón , Leonor Isabel B. , Reis Rui L. , van Griensven Martijn , Balmayor Elizabeth R.
Published: January 2021

Lesions involving the osteochondral unit are difficult to treat. Biomimetic scaffolds are previously shown as promising alternative. Such devices often lack multiple functional layers that mimic bone, cartilage, and the interface. In this study, multilayered scaffolds are developed based on the use of natural extracellular matrix (ECM)‐like biopolymers. Particular attention is paid to obtain a complex matrix that mimics the native osteochondral transition. Porous, sponge‐like chitosan‐collagen‐octacalcium phosphate (OCP) scaffolds are obtained. Collagen content increases while the amount of OCP particles decreases toward the cartilage layer. The scaffolds are bioactive as a mineral layer is deposited containing hydroxyapatite at the bony side. The scaffolds stimulate proliferation of human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells, but the degree of proliferation depends on the cell seeding density. The scaffolds give rise to a zone‐specific gene expression. RUNX2, COL1A1, BGLAP, and SPP1 are upregulated in the bony layer of the scaffold. SOX9 is upregulated concomitant with COL2A1 expression in the cartilage zone. Mineralization in presence of the cells is prominent in the bone area with Ca and P steadily increasing over time. These results are encouraging for the fabrication of biomimetic scaffolds using ECM‐like materials and featuring gradients that mimic native tissues and their interface.
A Patternable and In Situ Formed Polymeric Zinc Blanket for a Reversible Zinc Anode in a Skin‐Mountable Microbattery
Authors: Zhu Minshen , Hu Junping , Lu Qiongqiong , Dong Haiyun , Karnaushenko Dmitriy D. , Becker Christian , Karnaushenko Daniil , Li Yang , Tang Hongmei , Qu Zhe , Ge Jin , Schmidt Oliver G.
Published: January 2021

Owing to their high safety and reversibility, aqueous microbatteries using zinc anodes and an acid electrolyte have emerged as promising candidates for wearable electronics. However, a critical limitation that prevents implementing zinc chemistry at the microscale lies in its spontaneous corrosion in an acidic electrolyte that causes a capacity loss of 40% after a ten‐hour rest. Widespread anti‐corrosion techniques, such as polymer coating, often retard the kinetics of zinc plating/stripping and lack spatial control at the microscale. Here, a polyimide coating that resolves this dilemma is reported. The coating prevents corrosion and hence reduces the capacity loss of a standby microbattery to 10%. The coordination of carbonyl oxygen in the polyimide with zinc ions builds up over cycling, creating a zinc blanket that minimizes the concentration gradient through the electrode/electrolyte interface and thus allows for fast kinetics and low plating/stripping overpotential. The polyimide's patternable feature energizes microbatteries in both aqueous and hydrogel electrolytes, delivering a supercapacitor‐level rate performance and 400 stable cycles in the hydrogel electrolyte. Moreover, the microbattery is able to be attached to human skin and offers strong resistance to deformations, splashing, and external shock. The skin‐mountable microbattery demonstrates an excellent combination of anti‐corrosion, reversibility, and durability in wearables.
Efficient Generation and Arbitrary Manipulation of Chiral Terahertz Waves Emitted from Bi2Te3–Fe Heterostructures
Authors: Chen Xinhou , Wang Hangtian , Wang Chun , Ouyang Chen , Wei Gaoshuai , Nie Tianxiao , Zhao Weisheng , Miao Jungang , Li Yutong , Wang Li , Wu Xiaojun
Published: January 2021

Polarization arbitrary manipulated terahertz (THz) pulses with a prescribed amplitude temporal evolution and deposited electric‐field vectors can promote many disruptive technologies and enable enormous applications in polarization‐sensitive THz spectroscopy and imaging, ultrafast THz optospintronics, information encryption, and space exploration. However, the severe shortage of dynamically tunable THz polarization devices has impeded the proliferation of THz science and technology. Herein, a method of efficient generation and arbitrary manipulation of chiral THz waves in the topological insulator (TI)–iron (Fe) heterostructures through delicately engineering the linear photogalvanic effect (LPGE) and spin‐to‐charge conversion (SCC) effect induced by femtosecond laser pulses is proposed and demonstrated. Utilizing the intrinsic merits of optical‐controlled LPGE and magnetic field direction‐adjusted SCC effect, the TI–Fe can radiate chiral THz waves with arbitrarily tailored chirality and ellipticity. To verify the capability of such a novel chiral THz source, helical substructure associates THz circular dichroism spectroscopy is implemented on several (bio)materials, exemplified by the beetle exoskeletons. Furthermore, ultrafast switching between two THz chirality states can be realized by a double‐pulse excitation scheme. Such versatile chiral THz emitters with high efficiency and easy integration may have some disruptive applications.
Regulate the Electron Mobility and Threshold Voltage of P(NDI2OD‐T2)‐Based Organic Field‐Effect Transistors by the Compatibility Principle
Authors: Yang Hau‐Ren , Lai Yu‐Ying
Published: January 2021

Blending has been used extensively to meet the requirements for high‐mobility organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs), involving various combinations of (non‐)conjugated polymers and (non‐)conjugated molecules. Nonetheless, the collaborative effects of conjugated polymer and its structurally analogous molecule on charge‐transport properties have rarely been reported. In this work, P(NDI2OD‐T2) and N,N′‐bisbutyl‐2,6‐bis([2,2′]bithiophenyl‐5‐yl)‐1,4,5,8‐naphthalene diimide (M), are synthesized and blended with each other. M is designed to resemble the monomeric unit of P(NDI2OD‐T2) on the basis of the premise that structural similarity would promote their compatibility in the blends. This compatibility preserves electronic coupling through intermolecular interaction and establishes charge‐transport pathways as well. Overall, the thin‐film morphology of the blends could be prudently regulated through controlling the blending fraction, resulting in raising electron mobility up to ≈0.3 cm2 V−1 s−1. More importantly, this approach reduces threshold voltage by 50%, originating from lowering the injection barrier. These findings are well rationalized and the promising capabilities of the compatibility principle in OFETs are strongly supported.
Ion Migration Accelerated Reaction between Oxygen and Metal Halide Perovskites in Light and Its Suppression by Cesium Incorporation
Authors: Lin Dongxu , Shi Tingting , Xie Haipeng , Wan Fang , Ren Xiaoxue , Liu Kai , Zhao Yuan , Ke Lili , Lin Yun , Gao Yongli , Xu Xin , Xie Weiguang , Liu Pengyi , Yuan Yongbo
Published: January 2021

Organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells are susceptible to multiple influencing factors such as moisture, oxygen, heat stress, ion migration. Given the complex practical working conditions for solar cells, a fundamental question is how different failure mechanisms collaborate and substantially accelerate the device degradation. In this study, it is found that ion migration can accelerate the reaction between oxygen and methylammonium lead iodide perovskite in light conditions. This is suggested since regions with local electric fields suffer from more severe decomposition. Here it is reported that cesium ions (Cs+) incorporated in perovskite lattice, with a moderate doping concentration (e.g. 5%), can function as stabilizers to efficiently interrupt such a synergistic effect between oxygen induced degradation and ion migration while retaining the high performance of perovskite solar cells. Both experimental and theoretical results suggest that 5% Cs+ ions incorporation simultaneously suppresses the formation of reactive superoxide ions () as well as ion migration in perovskites by forming additional energy barriers. This A‐site cations engineering is also a promising strategy to circumvent the detrimental effect of oxygen molecules in FA‐based perovskites, which is important for developing high‐efficiency perovskite solar cells with enhanced stability.
Assessment of extended Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek‐based water film on multiphase transport behavior in shale microfractures
Authors: Wang Dongying , Yao Jun , Chen Zhangxin , Song Wenhui , Sun Hai , Yan Xia
Published: January 2021

This study presents a novel model to predict gas–water two‐phase transport behaviors in shale microfractures by incorporating a mobile water film with varying thickness according to the extended Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek theory as well as multiple fluid transport mechanisms (i.e., real gas transport controlled by the Knudsen number and water slippage). This model is implemented in real shale microfractures via digital‐core imaging. A gas–water displacement process is modeled by the invasion percolation theory, while a local multiphase distribution is determined by combining disjoining pressure with capillary force. Key findings reveal that gas relative permeability decreases by 17% and water RP enhances by 33.5%, when the mean aperture decreases from 1.67 to 0.0418 μm. Neglecting water film brings a decrease in water RP and an overestimation of gas transport ability. Moreover, two critical microfracture apertures are determined, which enhances an understanding of the water film impact on gas–water transport properties in application.
Modeling of the volatile organic compounds biodegradation process in the trickle‐bed bioreactor—Analysis of the model parametric sensitivity
Authors: Gąszczak Agnieszka , Bartelmus Grażyna , Rotkegel Adam
Published: January 2021

Mathematical models of the process of air purification from hydrophobic (styrene) or hydrophilic (vinyl acetate, VA) compounds carried out in a co‐current trickle‐bed bioreactor were presented. These models were marked as TSM (two‐substrate model), OSM (one‐substrate model) and AOSM (approximate one‐substrate model). The experimental database was exploited to validate the TSM which approximated very well the experimental data; the mean percentage error of RE prediction did not exceed 3% for styrene and 4.1% for VA. For the tested systems, TSM was only sensitive to the changes in biomass dry density Xb and effective diffusion coefficient Dj,ef values. The percentage relative error of the state variable computed using OSM/AOSM in relation to the value obtained from TSM was the quantitative criterion for comparison of the results obtained using different mathematical models of the process. It was shown that the simplified models describe the process investigated with satisfactory accuracy.
Raman Spectroscopy Reveals Abnormal Changes in the Urine Composition of Prostate Cancer: An Application of an Intelligent Diagnostic Model with a Deep Learning Algorithm
Authors: Chen Shengnan , Zhang Heng , Yang Xiangfei , Shao Xiaoguang , Li Taihao , Chen Na , Chen Zhenyi , Xue Wei , Pan Jiahua , Liu Shupeng
Published: January 2021

Early diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) is always a great challenge in clinical practice, especially in distinguishing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) from early cancer, due to the high similarity in pathology from the prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) test and radiological detection. The conventional diagnostic methods are often less efficient in specificity and accuracy, leading to quite a few unnecessary biopsies. This work establishes a noninvasive diagnostic method for PCa by investigating urine samples using Raman spectroscopy and convolutional neural network (CNN) algorithm. The results of urine Raman spectra show the intensities of characteristic peaks for lipids, nucleic acids, and some amino acids are distinguishable between PCa and BPH, suggesting an abnormal metabolism caused by PCa, which can be detected by Raman spectroscopy. These data are then used to train an intelligent diagnostic model with CNN algorithm. The cross‐validation results show the mean diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for PCa are 74.95%, 77.32%, and 72.46%, respectively. This noninvasive diagnostic method is a promising method for the early diagnosis of PCa, and the idea of using urine Raman spectroscopy with deep learning techniques for diagnosing PCa provides a reference for the application of artificial intelligence in the field of clinical medicine research.
Clinical and molecular characterizations of 11 new patients with type 1 Feingold syndrome: Proposal for selecting diagnostic criteria and further genetic testing in patients with severe phenotype
Authors: Tedesco Maria Giovanna , Lonardo Fortunato , Ceccarini Caterina , Cesarano Carla , Digilio Maria Cristina , Magliozzi Monia , Rogaia Daniela , Mencarelli Amedea , Leoni Chiara , Piscopo Carmelo , Imperatore Valentina , Falco Maria Teresa , Fontana Paolo , Nardone Anna Maria , Novelli Antonio , Troiani Stefania , Seri Marco , Prontera Paolo
Published: January 2021

Feingold Syndrome type 1 (FS1) is an autosomal dominant disorder due to a loss of function mutations in the MYCN gene. FS1 is generally clinically characterized by mild learning disability, microcephaly, short palpebral fissures, short stature, brachymesophalangy, hypoplastic thumbs, as well as syndactyly of toes, variably associated with organ abnormalities, the most common being gastrointestinal atresia. In current literature, more than 120 FS1 patients have been described, but diagnostic criteria are not well agreed upon, likewise the genotype–phenotype correlations are not well understood. Here, we describe 11 FS1 patients, belonging to six distinct families, where we have identified three novel MYCN mutations along with three pathogenetic variants, the latter which have already been reported. Several patients presented a mild phenotype of the condition and they have been diagnosed as being affected only after segregation analyses of the MYCN mutation identified in the propositus. We also describe here the first ever FS1 patient with severe intellectual disability having a maternally inherited MYCN variant together with an additional GNAO1 mutation inherited paternally. Mutations in the GNAO1 gene are associated with a specific form of intellectual disability and epilepsy, thus the finding of two different rare diseases in the same patient could explain his severe phenotype. Therein, a thorough investigation is merited into the possibility that additional variants in patients with a MYCN mutation and severe phenotype do exist. Finally, in order to guarantee a more reliable diagnosis of FS1, we suggest using both major and minor clinical‐molecular diagnostic criteria.
Activatable Chemiluminescent Molecular Probes for Bioimaging and Biosensing
Authors: Yang Yanling , Zhang Fan
Published: January 2021

Chemiluminescence (CL) is a very promising method for applications in analytic chemistry and biological systems due to the elimination of the external light source, which could reduce autofluorescence interference and improve the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and tissue penetration depth. The fluorescent dyes, chemiluminescent initiator, and reaction temperature are three crucial factors that determine the chemiluminescence efficiency. Up to now, significant development of chemiluminescence probes has been reported for high‐performance imaging and sensing, including the systems based on luminol, imidazopyrazinone, peroxyoxalate, and Schaap's dioxetane. In this review, we give an overview of the current chemiluminescence probes and their bioimaging and biosensing applications. We also provide perspectives on designing chemiluminescent probes with good efficiency and longer emission wavelengths.
Reinforcing effect of nanocrystalline cellulose and office waste paper fibers on mechanical and thermal properties of poly (lactic acid) composites
Authors: Zhang Xiaolin , Li Shaoge , Li Jia , Fu Baiqiao , Di Jingjing , Xu Long , Zhu Xiaofeng
Published: January 2021

Nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) was prepared from office waste paper (OWP) by sulfuric acid hydrolysis method in this paper and it was used to prepare a series of poly (lactic acid) PLA/NCC composites by using a dissolution method in solvent N, N‐dimethylformamide solution. The results indicated that with the addition of only 3 wt% NCC, the composites exhibited outstanding mechanical property. The tensile, bending and impact properties of the PLA/3NCC composite were improved by 8.2%, 13.1%, and 35.9% than those of pure PLA, respectively. On this basis, office waste paper fibers (OWF) were also used as a physical blended filler to enhance PLA/NCC composites to reduce the preparation cost of PLA composites and the perfect PLA/NCC/OWF sample was easily manufactured by melting–blending and injection molding. According to the crystallization and melting performance table, both NCC and OWF can act as nucleating agent to promote the crystallization properties on composites, while the blends did not have positive effect on thermal stability. Furthermore, the water absorption and degradation properties of PLA composites were also studied. This work not only provided a novel idea for the utilization of office waste paper but also successfully produced environment friendly composites with favorable mechanical properties and crystallization performance.
Application of the small‐angle scattering invariant to morphological behavior in ballistic materials
Authors: Beyer Frederick L. , Masser Kevin A. , Lenhart Joseph L.
Published: January 2021

The small‐angle scattering invariant provides a useful tool for quantifying nanoscale morphological features in two‐phase materials, when scattering data of sufficient quality and angular range are available. In this work, an invariant analysis has been performed on small‐angle X‐ray scattering data for a series of epoxy‐amines previously found to have relatively high‐energy absorption (KE50) in ballistic impact tests. The improved performance was hypothesized to be a result of the formation of an ill‐defined two‐phase morphology, observed but not quantified using transmission electron microscopy. In this analysis, the ballistic performance and the scattering invariant were found to be strongly correlated, with a Pearson's linear correlation coefficient of 0.94. Facile analysis enabled by a custom software procedure suggests that this previously difficult analysis may be more broadly useful, even in high throughput applications.
Switch‐On Diketopyrrolopyrrole‐Based Chemosensors for Cations Possessing Lewis Acid Character
Authors: Kumar G. Dinesh , Banasiewicz Marzena , Jacquemin Denis , Gryko Daniel T.
Published: January 2021

For the first time diketopyrrolopyrroles (DPPs) have been synthesized directly from nitriles possessing (aza)crown ethers leading to macrocycle‐dye hybrids. Depending on the nature of the linkage between DPP and macrocyclic ring, various coordination effects are found. The strong interaction of the cations possessing Lewis acid character such as Li+, Mg2+ and Zn2+ with 2‐aminopyridin‐4‐yl‐DPPs, leading to a bathochromic shift of both emission and absorption, as well as to strong enhancement of fluorescence was rationalized in terms of strong binding of these cations to the N=C−NR2 functionality. The same effect has been observed for protonation. Depending on the size and the structure of the macrocyclic ring the complexation of cations by aza‐crown ethers plays an important but secondary role. The interaction of Na+ and K+ with 2‐aminopyridin‐4‐yl‐DPPs leads to moderate enhancement of fluorescence due to the aza‐crown ethers binding. The very weak fluorescence of DPP bearing 2‐dialkylamino‐pyridine‐4‐yl substituents is due to the closely lying T2 state and the resulting intersystem crossing.
Pre‐Lithiation Strategies for Lithium Ion Capacitors: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Arnaiz María , Ajuria Jon
Published: January 2021

Lithium ion capacitor (LIC) is an emerging technology that holds promise to bridge the energy‐to‐power gap between already market stablished lithium ion battery and electrochemical double‐layer capacitor technologies. Academic research is mainly focused on increasing energy, power and cycle life metrics, but next, pre‐lithiation strategy is the key that will open the final door, or not, towards industrialization and commercialization of the technology. Its relevance has only recently been thoroughly considered, but several strategies, all with their own particular set of assets, are already available within the state‐of‐the‐art. It is the right moment to make a retrospective review analysis of the pros and cons of each of the strategies, in order to draw the correct conclusions and look into the future with the best perspective. Despite some reviews newly considered the topic, they were all done in a broader framework, what finally waters down the importance of this critical step. Thus, this review aims to solely focus on the pre‐lithiation strategies that have been reported so far for LICs, from the first academic auxiliary lithium metal approach to the latest novel strategies. To conclude, challenges and requierements that the ideal pre‐lithiation strategy should fulfil in order to foster market uptake of LIC technology are also discussed.
Intergroup friendships between South Korean hosts and North Korean refugees: Implications for educational practices
Authors: Myeong Hwayeon , Lee Ahlam
Published: January 2021

While young South Koreans’ (SKs’) views on North Korean (NK) refugees, North Korea and Korean reunification have become increasingly negative or callous, less is understood about viable interventions to address their aggravating attitudes. Through the lens of Allport’s intergroup contact theory, the current study explored how SK college students’ friendships with NK refugees influence their perspectives on (a) attitudes towards NK refugees; (b) interest in North Korea; and (c) views about Korean reunification. We used a concurrent triangulation mixed‐methods design that integrates quantitative data via a survey and qualitative data via in‐depth interviews. Survey data drawn from 276 SK college students revealed that those with NK refugee friends showed more favourable attitudes towards the NK refugee population, greater interest in North Korea‐related issues and NK society, and more positive perspectives on Korean reunification. A cross‐analysis of in‐depth interviews with 11 SK college students who developed friendships with NK refugees yielded five primary domains: (a) initial occasion on which they met the NK refugee friend(s); (b) feelings and thoughts about friendships with NK refugee(s); (c) friendship‐induced changes in perceptions of the NK refugee population; (d) friendship‐induced changes in perceptions of North Korea; and (e) friendship‐induced changes in perceptions of Korean reunification. Based on the intergroup friendship’s promising effects that our findings suggest, we discussed the benefits of employing educational practices that could promote intergroup contacts and understandings of North Korea and the refugee population.
Cancer and the breakdown of multicellularity: What Dictyostelium discoideum, a social amoeba, can teach us
Authors: Mathavarajah Sabateeshan , VanIderstine Carter , Dellaire Graham , Huber Robert J.
Published: January 2021

Ancient pathways promoting unicellularity and multicellularity are associated with cancer, the former being pro‐oncogenic and the latter acting to suppress oncogenesis. However, there are only a limited number of non‐vertebrate models for studying these pathways. Here, we review Dictyostelium discoideum and describe how it can be used to understand these gene networks. D. discoideum has a unicellular and multicellular life cycle, making it possible to study orthologs of cancer‐associated genes in both phases. During development, differentiated amoebae form a fruiting body composed of a mass of spores that are supported atop a stalk. A portion of the cells sacrifice themselves to become non‐reproductive stalk cells. Cheating disrupts the principles of multicellularity, as cheater cells alter their cell fate to preferentially become spores. Importantly, D. discoideum has gene networks and several strategies for maintaining multicellularity. Therefore, D. discoideum can help us better understand how conserved genes and pathways involved in multicellularity also influence cancer development, potentially identifying new therapeutic avenues.
The Good, Bad, and Ugly of Succession Planning: A Comparative Perspective
Authors: Besel Karl , Flores Arturo , Chang Chae Young
Published: January 2021

Karl Besel, Ph.D., is professor of public administration and health management at the School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University Northwest in Gary. Arturo Flores, Ph.D., is a lecturer and researcher at Universidad Anáhuac, Naucalpan de Juárez, Mexico. Chae Young Chang, Ph.D., is assistant professor at the School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University Northwest. In this article, the authors provide a summary of succession planning strategies (or a lack thereof) that are being implemented by nonprofits in the United States, Europe, and Latin America and discuss how nonprofit organizations, nationally and internationally, can begin to develop cultures of intentional succession planning.
Tract‐specific analysis and neurocognitive functioning in sickle cell patients without history of overt stroke
Authors: Chai Yaqiong , Ji Chaoran , Coloigner Julie , Choi Soyoung , Balderrama Melissa , Vu Chau , Tamrazi Benita , Coates Thomas , Wood John C. , O'Neil Sharon H. , Lepore Natasha
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary blood disorder in which the oxygen‐carrying hemoglobin molecule in red blood cells is abnormal. SCD patients are at increased risks for strokes and neurocognitive deficit, even though neurovascular screening and treatments have lowered the rate of overt strokes. Tract‐specific analysis (TSA) is a statistical method to evaluate microstructural WM damage in neurodegenerative disorders, using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI).

Methods

We utilized TSA and compared 11 major brain WM tracts between SCD patients with no history of overt stroke, anemic controls, and healthy controls. We additionally examined the relationship between the most commonly used DTI metric of WM tracts and neurocognitive performance in the SCD patients and healthy controls.

Results

Disruption of WM microstructure orientation‐dependent metrics for the SCD patients was found in the genu of the corpus callosum (CC), cortico‐spinal tract, inferior fronto‐occipital fasciculus, right inferior longitudinal fasciculus, superior longitudinal fasciculus, and left uncinate fasciculus. Neurocognitive performance indicated slower processing speed and lower response inhibition skills in SCD patients compared to controls. TSA abnormalities in the CC were significantly associated with measures of processing speed, working memory, and executive functions.

Conclusion

Decreased DTI‐derived metrics were observed on six tracts in chronically anemic patients, regardless of anemia subtype, while two tracks with decreased measures were unique to SCD patients. Patients with WMHs had more significant FA abnormalities. Decreased FA values in the CC significantly correlated with all nine neurocognitive tests, suggesting a critical importance for CC in core neurocognitive processes.
Ability of a novel shock index that incorporates invasive hemodynamics to predict mortality in patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: McKenzie Alexander , Zhou Cynthia , Svendsen Christopher , Anketell Rebecca , Behroozi Arash , Jessa Dafe , Piehl Charles , Rayson Robert , Yeung Michael , Stouffer George A.
Published: January 2021

Objective

To determine whether the use of invasively measured hemodynamics improves the prognostic ability of a shock index (SI).

Background

SI such as Admission‐SI, Age‐SI, Modified SI (MSI), and Age‐MSI predict short‐term mortality in ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods

Single‐center study of 510 patients who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention. STEMI SI was defined as age × heart rate (HR) divided by coronary perfusion pressure (CPP).

Results

The mean age was 62 ± 14 years, 66% were males with hypertension (69%), tobacco use (38%), diabetes (28%) and chronic kidney disease (6%). The mean HR, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and CPP were 81 ± 18 bpm, 124 ± 28 mmHg, and 52.8 ± 16.3 mmHg, respectively. Patients with STEMI SI ≥182 (n = 51) were more likely to experience a cardiac arrest in the catheterization laboratory (9.8% vs. 2.0%; p = .001), require mechanical circulatory support (47.1% vs. 8.5%; p < .0001) and be treated with vasopressors (56.9% vs. 10.7%; p < .0001) compared to STEMI SI < 182 (n = 459). After multivariate adjustment, patients with STEMI SI ≥182 were 10, 10.1 and 4.8 times more likely to die during hospitalization, at 30 days and at 5 years, respectively. The C statistic of STEMI SI was 0.870, similar to GRACE score (AUC = 0.902; p = .29) and TIMI STEMI score (AUC = 0.895; p = .36).

Conclusion

STEMI SI is an easy to calculate risk score that identifies STEMI patients at high risk of in‐hospital death.
Simulating the dynamic influence of temperature variation on allowable storage time of shelled corn
Authors: Adams Bailey J. , Rosentrater Kurt A.
Published: January 2021

Background and Objectives

Following mechanical harvest, shelled corn is susceptible to decreased quality in storage environments. The rate at which shelled corn deteriorates is dependent upon numerous factors, but temperature and moisture content are predominant. The standard methodology for quantifying grain deterioration is to express it as a percent dry matter loss, where 0.5% dry matter loss corresponds directly with a number of safe storage days, known as allowable storage time (AST). However, current shelled corn allowable storage time values, based on ASABE standard D535, are only applicable for a specific temperature and a specific moisture content. Therefore, this study simulated and reviewed how natural temperature variation dynamically affects the response in shelled corn allowable storage time.

Findings

Two separate simulations were configured, and the results showed that, depending on the given moisture content, temperature trends, and when shelled corn is initially placed in storage, AST can be extended at certain points throughout the year. Additionally, it was revealed that there is a considerable difference between dynamic AST values and static (traditional) AST values contained within the current shelled corn storage time chart.

Conclusions

The number of safe allowable storage days is substantially impacted by grain moisture and deviations in daily temperature.

Significance and Novelty

The study makes an important contribution toward understanding the dynamic storage behavior of corn due to changes in temperature and moisture levels. This research builds on current knowledge, but it presents a more refined estimation of theoretical shelled corn allowable storage time.
Prenatal presentation of glutaric aciduria type II: A case report with radiologic, clinical, biochemical, molecular, and pathological phenotyping
Authors: Carmant Laurence , Karalis Aspasia , Rypens Françoise , Oligny Luc , Wavrant Sandrine , Lapeyraque Anne‐Laure , Codsi Elisabeth
Published: January 2021

We know that glutaric aciduria type II is an inborn metabolism. This case report highlights that polycystic kidneys with hepatomegaly in prenatal ultrasound are suggestive of glutaric aciduria type II and it identifies a new variant as pathogenic.
Surgical Correction of cicatricial Entropion in cattle: Two cases
Authors: Betbeze Caroline M. , Villers Meghan R. , Telle Mary R. , Grissett Gretchen P.
Published: January 2021

Utilization of the Hotz‐Celsus technique with standing sedation and local nerve blocks in cattle provides adequate correction of cicatricial entropion.
Uncommon presentation of a common arrhythmia
Authors: Verbeet Thierry , Almorad Alexandre , Nguyen Thomas , Jottrand Maurice , Castro José
Published: January 2021

This case report demonstrates that atrioventricular and ventricular atrial conduction at rest may be unreliable in assessing the presence of reentrant atrioventricular nodal tachycardia.
Early predominant inflammatory myopathy in anti‐glycyl‐tRNA synthetase (EJ) antibody positive antisynthetase syndrome
Authors: Warner Robin , Reid Derrece
Published: January 2021

It is important to consider antisynthetase syndrome in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with weakness, respiratory distress, and a constellation of complaints spanning multiple organ systems, as this will change clinical management.