bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ketene 3‐Component Staudinger Reaction (K‐3CSR) to β‐Lactams: A New Entry in the Class of Photoinduced Multicomponent Reactions
Authors: Minuto Federica , Lambruschini Chiara , Basso Andrea
Published: May 2021

The Staudinger synthesis of β‐lactams from imines and ketenes has been conducted photochemically only in very limited cases. Recent advances in the visible light mediated Wolff rearrangement of diazoketones allowed us to perform, for the first time, a 3‐component Staudinger reaction, by mixing aldehydes, amines and diazoketones in the dark and switching the light on after imine formation. The new photoinduced reaction parallels the classic methods in terms of efficiency/selectivity and adds to the existing multicomponent approaches for the preparation of combinatorial libraries of compounds. A thorough optimization of the reaction conditions was performed both for the classic two component reaction and for the novel three component version of the photoinduced Staudinger reaction.
How is the concentration determined for rapid lithium ion transfer in highly concentrated electrolyte solutions?
Authors: Doi Takayuki , Oae Hidetaka , Inaba Minoru
Published: May 2021

Highly concentrated electrolyte solutions have various unique characteristics for use in secondary batteries, including lithium ion batteries. The superlative performance of batteries should be achieved not at a saturating concentration, but rather at an appropriate concentration in terms of both Li+ transport in electrolyte solutions and Li+ transfer across interfaces between the electrodes and electrolyte solutions. This work focused on the latter, and studied the effect of the electrolyte concentration on interfacial Li+ transfer kinetics. Interfacial resistance between a solid electrolyte and LiBF4/PC electrolyte solutions of different concentrations were investigated by impedance spectroscopy using a four‐electrode cell, and the activation energy was evaluated by the least‐squares method. The results revealed that specific concentrations reduced interfacial resistance and activation energy. The solution structure of these electrolyte solutions was characterized by Raman spectroscopy, and was associated with the low interfacial resistance and activation energy.
Gastroblastoma with a novel EWSR1‐CTBP1 fusion presenting in adolescence
Authors: Koo Selene C. , LaHaye Stephanie , Kovari Bence P. , Schieffer Kathleen M. , Ranalli Mark A. , Aldrink Jennifer H. , Michalsky Marc P. , Colace Susan , Miller Katherine E. , Bedrosian Tracy A. , Leraas Kristen M. , Voytovich Kyle , Wheeler Gregory , Brennan Patrick , Fitch James , Kelly Benjamin J. , McGrath Sean D. , Miller Anthony R. , White Peter , Magrini Vincent , Wilson Richard K. , Mardis Elaine R. , Lauwers Gregory Y. , Baker Peter B. , Cottrell Catherine E.
Published: May 2021

Gastroblastomas are rare tumors with a biphasic epithelioid/spindle cell morphology that typically present in early adulthood and have recurrent MALAT1‐GLI1 fusions. We describe an adolescent patient with Wiskott‐Aldrich syndrome who presented with a large submucosal gastric tumor with biphasic morphology. Despite histologic features consistent with gastroblastoma, a MALAT1‐GLI1 fusion was not found in this patient's tumor; instead, comprehensive molecular profiling identified a novel EWSR1‐CTBP1 fusion and no other significant genetic alterations. The tumor also overexpressed NOTCH and FGFR by RNA profiling. The novel fusion and expression profile suggest a role for epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in this tumor, with potential implications for the pathogenesis of biphasic gastric tumors such as gastroblastoma.
Impact of board certification system and adherence to the clinical practice guidelines for liver cancer on post‐hepatectomy risk‐adjusted mortality rate in Japan: A questionnaire survey of departments registered with the National Clinical Database
Authors: Arita Junichi , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Kokudo Takashi , Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Miyata Hiroaki , Toh Yasushi , Gotoh Mitsukazu , Kokudo Norihiro , Kakeji Yoshihiro , Seto Yasuyuki
Published: May 2021

Background

It is unclear to what extent a board certification system and implementation of clinical guidelines improves the quality of hepatectomy.

Methods

A web‐based questionnaire survey was administered to departments registered with the National Clinical Database (NCD) in Japan between 1 October 2014 and 31 January 2015. Quality indicators (QIs), including affiliations with academic societies, numbers of board‐certified doctors affiliated with each institute, and adherence to clinical practice guidelines for hepatocellular carcinoma, were evaluated by calculating risk‐adjusted odds ratios (AORs) for 90‐day postoperative mortality of patients who had undergone hepatectomy in 2013 and 2014.

Results

Of 1255 departments that had registered at least one hepatectomy in NCD, 592 departments, performing 8601 hepatectomies in total, responded to the questionnaire. AORs were significantly lower in departments that were certified as training hospitals by the Japanese Society of Gastroenterological Society, Japanese Society of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery (JSHBPS), and Japan Society of Hepatology than in non‐certified departments. Affiliation of three or more JSHBPS‐certified experts or instructors with an institution also contributed to low AORs. None of the QIs regarding implementation of guidelines significantly impacted on the AOR.

Conclusions

Quality indicator measurements may improve quality of post‐hepatectomy outcomes in Japan.
The impact of health sector‐wide approaches on aid effectiveness and infant mortality
Authors: Woode Maame Esi , Mortimer Duncan , Sweeney Rohan
Published: May 2021

The effectiveness of health aid remains contested. Previous estimates fail to distinguish between fragmented, poorly‐targeted aid and aid disbursed under aid effectiveness principles. To address this gap, we investigated whether the sector‐wide approach (SWAp), a mechanism for aid delivery built on aid effectiveness principles, has delivered improvements in aid effectiveness and infant mortality. Results suggest that SWAp implementation facilitated a 5.8% to 8.1% reduction in the infant mortality rate compared to non‐implementing countries. This effect likely operates by releasing domestic resources and/or increasing the efficiency with which domestic resources are converted into health gains. Development partners should take heart that the aid effectiveness agenda appears to have paid dividends in the health sector.
Cryo‐surgery for symptomatic extra‐abdominal desmoids. A proof of concept study
Authors: Efrima Ben , Ovadia Joshua , Drukman Ido , Khoury Amal , Rath Ehud , Dadia Solomon , Gortzak Yair , Albagli Assaf , Sternheim Amir , Segal Ortal
Published: May 2021

Background and Objective

Extra abdominal desmoid tumors are rare, highly aggressive, and invasive benign soft tissue tumors. Current treatment modalities show high levels of recurrence and comorbidities. Cryo‐surgery as an alternative was subsequently investigated.

Methods

In this retrospective, single center study 11 patients showing symptomatic tumors were treated with individualized cryo‐surgery. Treatment protocol included preoperative planning using computer rendered 3D models, intraoperative navigation and execution using cone beam guidance, and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging image analysis using a gaussian mixture model software. Subjective outcomes were reported using Short Form Health Survey (SF‐36) questionnaires.

Results

Sixteen ablations were performed, each demonstrating a complete match with the determined preoperative plan and model. A total of 9/11 (82%) of patients showed improvements in symptoms and a reduction in tumor volume while 2/11 (18%) did not. Average reduction in tumor volume and viable segments were 36.7% (p = 0.0397) and 63.3% (p = 0.0477), respectively. Mild complications according to the SIR Adverse Event Classification Guidelines were experienced in 3/16 (19%) ablations. SF‐36 scores showed a statistically significant improvement (p = 0.0194) in the mental health category and a nonsignificant (p = 0.8071) improvement in the physical health category.

Conclusion

Cryo‐surgery using the three‐phase protocol as described may improve the overall outcome of future ablation procedures.
Paradigm Change in Liver Transplantation Practice After the Implementation of the Liver‐Kidney Allocation Policy
Authors: Nagai Shunji , Suzuki Yukiko , Kitajima Toshihiro , Ivanics Tommy , Shimada Shingo , Kuno Yasutaka , Shamaa Mhd Tayseer , Yeddula Sirisha , Samaniego Milagros , Collins Kelly , Rizzari Michael , Yoshida Atsushi , Abouljoud Marwan
Published: May 2021

The Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN)/United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) policy regarding kidney allocation for liver transplantation (LT) patients was implemented in August 2017. This study evaluated the effects of the simultaneous liver‐kidney transplantation (SLKT) policy on outcomes in LT alone (LTA) patients with kidney dysfunction. We analyzed adult primary LTA patients with kidney dysfunction at listing (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 30 mL/minute or dialysis requirement) between January 2015 and March 2019 using the OPTN/UNOS registry. Waitlist practice and kidney transplantation (KT) listing after LTA were compared between prepolicy and postpolicy groups. There were 3821 LTA listings with eGFR <30 mL/minute included. The daily number of listings on dialysis was significantly higher in Era 2 (postpolicy group) than Era 1 (prepolicy group) (1.21/day versus 0.95/day; P < 0.001). Of these LTA listings, 90‐day LT waitlist mortality, LTA probability, and 1‐year post‐LTA survival were similar between eras. LTA recipients in Era 2 had a higher probability for KT listing after LTA than those in Era 1 (6.2% versus 3.9%; odds ratio [OR], 3.30; P < 0.001), especially those on dialysis (8.4% versus 2.0%; OR, 4.38; P < 0.001). Under the safety net rule, there was a higher KT probability after LTA (26.7% and 53% at 6 months in Eras 1 and 2, respectively; P = 0.02). After the implementation of the policy, the number of LTA listings among patients on dialysis increased significantly. While their posttransplant survival did not change, KT listing after LTA increased. The safety net rule led to high KT probability and a low waitlist mortality rate in patients who were listed for KT after LTA. These results suggest that the policy successfully achieved the goals of providing appropriate opportunities of KT for LT patients, which did not compromise LTA waitlist or posttransplant outcomes in patients with kidney dysfunction and provided KT opportunities if patients developed kidney failure after LTA.
Genetic polymorphism of vitamin D receptors and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 and osteonecrosis risk in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Sherief Laila M. , Beshir Mohamed , Raafat Nermin , Abdelkhalek Elhamy R. , Mokhtar Wesam A. , Elgerby Khaled M. , Soliman Basma K. , Salah Hosam E. , Mokhtar Ghada A. , Kamal Naglaa M. , ELsayed Heba , Zakaria Marwa
Published: May 2021

Background

Osteonecrosis (ON) is one of the major therapy‐related complications in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The purpose of the current study is to assess the frequency of ON in children with ALL and to detect whether polymorphisms in vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) gene can affect the risk of ON.

Patients and Methods

Nighty‐six ALL children were enrolled. Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D 25(OH)D levels were performed in addition to the detection of polymorphisms in PAI‐1and VDR genes by polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Ten out of 96 patients had ON (four males and six females aged above 10 years) and had an insufficient level of 25(OH)D. Fifty‐two percent of patients had PAI‐1 GG genotype while 48% had PAI‐1 GA genotype. PAI‐1 polymorphism was detected in 60% of all ON cases. The frequencies of VDR genotypes were CT (56.3%), CC (39.6%), and TT (4.2%). Osteonecrosis was found in eight patients with CC genotype and in two patients with CT genotype.

Conclusion

Osteonecrosis can develop early during the therapy of ALL. Older age and insufficient level of 25(OH)D were considered important risk factor for the development of osteonecrosis. PAT‐1 and VDR gene polymorphism may be a genetic risk factor in its pathogenesis.
Two Decades of Advancement in Flathead Catfish Research
Authors: Montague Graham F. , Shoup Daniel E.
Published: May 2021

We summarized advancements in Flathead Catfish Pylodictis olivaris biology, fisheries, and management published from 1999 to 2021. Our goal was to highlight recent advancements in Flathead Catfish research and address information needs for this species to encourage future research. We identified and reviewed 140 papers from 33 peer-reviewed journals, 27 theses/dissertations, and 13 technical reports on Flathead Catfish over the 23-year period. Most studies focused on introduced Flathead Catfish populations, age and growth, movements, diet, sampling methods, and human dimensions of Flathead Catfish fisheries. The number of studies published on riverine Flathead Catfish populations was greater than the number published on reservoir populations, and many studied negative effects of populations introduced outside of the species’ native range. Flathead Catfish are most commonly found in shallow (<3-m) locations with large woody debris or riprap and substrates with a hard bottom. Flathead Catfish movement studies identified three distinct migration periods: overwintering, prespawn/spawn, and late summer/fall, with little movement between these migrations. Flathead Catfish are typically lightly exploited (0–19% annual exploitation) and have typical (for a long-lived species) annual total mortality rates of 11–37%, ranging as high as 62%. Flathead Catfish are most commonly sampled using low-frequency electrofishing. Despite an increase in published literature on Flathead Catfish, information remains inadequate such that most state agencies do not follow a standardized protocol for sampling Flathead Catfish and information to guide management approaches for the species is limited. Minimal research on Flathead Catfish reproduction and spawning has occurred since 1999. Additional research is needed on these and other topics to provide information critical to managing this important species.
Urban green space use during a time of stress: A case study during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Brisbane, Australia
Authors: Berdejo‐Espinola Violeta , Suárez‐Castro Andrés F. , Amano Tatsuya , Fielding Kelly S. , Oh Rachel Rui Ying , Fuller Richard A.
Published: May 2021

Spending time in nature is one potential way to cope with the negative physical and psychological health impacts from major stressful life events. In 2020, a large fraction of the global population was impacted by restrictions to contain the spread of the COVID‐19 outbreak, a period characterised by marked health risks and behavioural changes. Here we explore whether people responded to this stressor by spending more time in nature and investigate the reasons for any changes.

We surveyed 1,002 people in Brisbane, Australia in 2020, to measure the change in use of green space during the restrictions period and benefits people associated with visiting them.

About 36% of participants increased their urban green space use, but 26% reduced it, indicating a great deal of flux. Furthermore, 45% of the previous non‐users of urban green space began using it for the first time during the restrictions period. Older people were less likely to increase their green space use and those with a backyard were more likely to increase their use of green spaces.

Participants' change in use occurred regardless of the amount of green space available in close proximity to their households. In addition, we did not find a relationship between nature‐relatedness and change in use.

People's reasons for green space use shifted during the pandemic‐related restrictions period, with many emphasising improvement of personal well‐being rather than consolidating community capital. Most participants indicated an increase in the importance of the psychological and physical benefits obtained from urban green spaces.

We conclude that increased urban green space use during moments of stress such as the COVID‐19 pandemic has the potential to ameliorate some of the negative effects of the stressor, but that the capacity and desire to spend more time in green space varies markedly across society. Sufficient urban green space provision for all sections of society will maximise the opportunity to employ a nature‐based coping mechanism during times of personal or community stress.
On behaviors of the shape memory composite containing shape memory polymer matrix and shape memory alloy fibers under uniaxial loading with different temperature conditions
Authors: Liu Bingfei , Zhang Fangfang , Zhou Rui , Sun Yigang
Published: May 2021

The shape memory polymers (SMPs) and shape memory alloys (SMAs), as typical smart materials, have got enormous attention in the fields of aerospace, microsystems, and biomedicine due to their superior shape memory properties. Combining the high strength of SMAs and the large deformation of SMPs, the shape memory polymer composites with the shape memory alloys fibers (SMPC‐SMAs) formed by SMP matrix and SMA fibers have the dual advantages of SMAs and SMPs. For the different loading conditions, the mechanical behaviors of the SMPC‐SMAs are investigated in this work, by combining with the mechanics of composite materials and the constitutive models of SMPs and SMAs. Compared with the mechanical behavior of pure uniaxial loading, the influence of temperature changes on the phase transition of the material is considered under different constraints. Compared with mechanical behaviors of pure SMAs and pure SMPs, the thermomechanical behaviors of the SMPC‐SMAs are discussed and simulated considering the coupling of the phase transition of SMPs and SMAs. And the effects of different fiber content and different pre‐strain on the behaviors of such SMPC‐SMAs are finally discussed, respectively. The results showed that different mechanical properties for SMPC‐SMAs are displayed; such materials not only can maintain the normal shape memory effect but also have the greater strength, which will be a better engineering application prospect.
Using infrared spectroscopy in combination with multivariate data analysis to predict residual strength of carbon fiber reinforced polymers after one‐sided thermal loading
Authors: Vetter Tanja Marina , Zimmer Felix , Eibl Sebastian , Gudladt Hans‐Joachim
Published: May 2021

In this study, structural, mechanical, and chemical changes of one‐sided thermally loaded carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs) are investigated. The aim is to test and reliably predict residual strength and delamination depth by using infrared spectroscopy. CFRP of different thicknesses (HexPly® 8552/IM7) were irradiated at varying heat fluxes over various time intervals. The inhomogeneously distributed matrix degradation was analyzed by means of attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with a depth resolution of 0.2 mm. Residual interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) was determined and microfocused computed X‐ray tomography was used to measure the delamination depth. Principal component analyses were performed to show which information in the infrared spectra is affected by thermal loading. Furthermore, the combination of spectra taken at different depths of the CFRP can be used to develop partial least squares regression models to predict ILSS and delamination depth. Despite an inhomogenous distribution of thermal damage, precise predictions of ILSS and delamination depth with models considering varying sample thicknesses and heat fluxes were achieved.
Mechanical properties of carbon‐fiber‐reinforced epoxy composites modified by carbon micro‐ and nanofillers
Authors: Burkov Mikhail V. , Eremin Alexander V.
Published: May 2021

Hybrid composite materials reinforced with unidirectional fibers and small‐scale micro‐ or nanoparticles provide benefits compared to traditional composites. The present paper shows the experimental investigation of carbon‐fiber‐reinforced polymers modified by the addition of 0.5–5 wt% of milled carbon fibers and 0.1–0.5 wt% of single‐wall carbon nanotubes. Both fillers were analyzed from technological point of view. The impact on mechanical and physical properties was revealed and discussed. Main attention was paid to quasi‐static tensile and flexural properties as well as fatigue behavior under tension–tension mode. The maximal improvement in static tensile strength by 8.6% (from 682 to 741 MPa) and flexural strength by 14% (from 649 to 740 MPa) was achieved by the addition of 0.3 wt% single‐wall carbon nanotubes. Short beam shear strength increased by 18%. Fatigue durability was highly improved as well. The strengthening mechanisms are attributed to the improvement of shear interfacial properties. In contrast to single‐wall carbon nanotubes, milled carbon fibers enhanced the properties by 3%–9% only at static loading, while fatigue properties are negatively affected.
Multidimensional analytical protocols for the fractionation and analysis of complex polyolefins
Authors: Pasch Harald , Ndiripo Anthony , Bungu Paul Severin Eselem
Published: May 2021

Although produced from simple monomers that contain just carbon and hydrogen, polyolefin have complex molecular structures that are characterized by distributions in molar mass, chemical composition, and branching. Accordingly, a variety of advanced analytical techniques are needed for the comprehensive characterization of the molecular heterogeneity of polyolefins. These include different fractionation, spectroscopic, and thermal analysis methods. Very frequently, method couplings such as two‐dimensional liquid chromatography or the coupling of crystallization‐ and column‐based techniques are required. This review presents the current state of the art in multidimensional analysis of complex polyolefins. It discusses methods for bulk analysis as well as different analytical and preparative fractionation protocols. For different types of polyolefins it is shown that a preparative fractionation according to chemical composition/branching or molar mass helps to reduce the molecular complexity of the sample. Sample libraries can be obtained that may have narrow distributions regarding one molecular parameter. A detailed investigation of such library samples regarding other (broadly distributed) molecular parameters helps to fully explore the molecular heterogeneity of a complex sample.
Barriers to home bowel cancer screening
Authors: Goodwin Belinda C. , Myers Larry , Ireland Michael J. , March Sonja , Ralph Nicholas , Dunn Jeff , Chambers Suzanne , Aitken Joanne
Published: May 2021

Objective

To develop and test a psychometric instrument for measuring common barriers to completing and returning home bowel cancer screening kits.

Methods

One hundred and ten items were reviewed by an expert panel (n = 15) and presented in an online cross‐sectional survey with 427 Australian adults. Exploratory factor analysis was used to identify an optimal factor solution of latent barrier types and aggregated factor scores were examined and compared between demographic groups.

Results

Common barriers included having already been screened (32.3%), forgetting about the kit (24.4%), and a lack of planning (21.8%). Barriers reflecting hygiene concerns were also endorsed by over 15% of the sample. Four clear barrier types were evident reflecting disgust, avoidance, lack of autonomy, and physical difficulties.

Conclusions

Findings support calls to apply multi‐faceted interventions strategies that address a broad range of barrier types, particularly that which encourage planning, and prompt and facilitate easy stool collection.
Phylogeny reveals non‐random medicinal plant organ selection by local people in Benin
Authors: Gaoue Orou G. , Yessoufou Kowiyou , Mankga Ledile , Vodouhe Fifanou
Published: May 2021

Societal Impact Statement

Humans rely on plants in their environment for food and medicine. Understanding how humans select plant species will help us anticipate what plant species will be valuable for society in the future. However, previous approaches to study the drivers of plant selection have been criticized. We explored medicinal plant selection using a refined methodology and corroborate that humans select plant species for medicine in a non‐random way. Furthermore, we found that selection of specific plant organs across similar species is also non‐random. Improved understanding of medicinal plant selection can help identify new medicinal plants and the particular organs of plant species that are most likely to contain bioactive compounds to help improve human health and well‐being.

Ethnobotany, the science of human–plant interactions, has for long focused on documenting the traditional knowledge that humans have developed and accumulated over centuries toward plant uses. However, how such knowledge is constructed remains poorly understood and some of the methodological approaches developed for this purpose have been criticized.

Here, we combine negative binomial models and phylogenetic comparative methods to test whether selection of medicinal plant species and organs by local people are non‐random using data from Benin, a country in West Africa with roughly 3,000 plant species.

We found evidence for taxonomic and phylogenetic non‐random selection of medicinal plants: some taxa are preferentially used for medicine. Our analysis uncovers that plant organs are also non‐randomly selected for medicine. Beyond plant taxonomy, similar plant organs of closely related species tended to be used for similar treatments because these organs are likely to have similar secondary chemistry. Such non‐random organ selection was more apparent for certain plant organs such as roots, bark, and leaves, which are predicted to be more vital for population fitness and species persistence.

Collectively, our study suggests that the emerging non‐random pattern of medicinal plant selection may be a consequence of heterogeneous within‐plant distribution of secondary chemistry across different organs proportionally to their importance to plant fitness as predicted by the optimal defense theory.
Virtual clinical trial simulations for a novel KRASG12C inhibitor (ASP2453) in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Sayama Hiroyuki , Marcantonio Diana , Nagashima Takeyuki , Shimazaki Masashi , Minematsu Tsuyoshi , Apgar Joshua F , Burke John M. , Wille Lucia , Nagasaka Yasuhisa , Kirouac Daniel C.
Published: May 2021

KRAS is a small GTPase family protein that relays extracellular growth signals to cell nucleus. KRASG12C mutations lead to constitutive proliferation signaling and are prevalent across human cancers. ASP2453 is a novel, highly potent, and selective inhibitor of KRASG12C. Although preclinical data suggested impressive efficacy, it remains unclear whether ASP2453 will show more favorable clinical response compared to more advanced competitors, such as AMG 510. Here, we developed a quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) model linking KRAS signaling to tumor growth in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer. The model was parameterized using in vitro ERK1/2 phosphorylation and in vivo xenograft data for ASP2453. Publicly disclosed clinical data for AMG 510 were used to generate a virtual population, and tumor size changes in response to ASP2453 and AMG 510 were simulated. The QSP model predicted ASP2453 exhibits greater clinical response than AMG 510, supporting potential differentiation and critical thinking for clinical trials.
Dielectric and Infrared Spectroscopy Characterization of Co–Al Layered Double Hydroxides
Authors: Zamaraite Ilona , Vieira Daniel E. L. , Vieira Luís G. , Ribeiro José L. , Vieira Joaquim M. , Salak Andrei N. , Banys Jūras
Published: May 2021

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are natural 2D materials with promising functionalities. A comprehensive understanding of physical properties (such as electrical or optical) is critical for their current and future applications. Herein, dielectric and infrared spectroscopy to extensively characterize thermal behavior of dynamic effects in cobalt–aluminum LDH with Co‐to‐Al ratio of 2 and intercalated with nitrate is applied. The dielectric response of the vacuum‐dried LDH shows noticeable relaxation processes in the radio frequency range. A detailed analysis of the relaxations allows assigning them to the dynamics of water clusters confined in the interlayer. Infrared spectroscopy enables the characterization of bands attributed to the OH stretching of these water clusters. It is found that a decrease in temperature results in freezing of the water clusters in the interlayers and in the coexistence of water‐like and ice‐like clusters network in this LDH.
Measuring Tailbeat Frequencies of Three Fish Species from Adaptive Resolution Imaging Sonar Data
Authors: Helminen Jani , O’Sullivan Antóin M. , Linnansaari Tommi
Published: May 2021

Imaging sonars, such as the Adaptive Resolution Imaging Sonar (ARIS), provide high‐resolution sonar data that are used in fisheries research and management. While sonar methods have enormous potential for making population estimates, species identification via sonar remains an unresolved challenge. One method that may overcome this challenge involves measuring tailbeat frequencies to guide species differentiation. The tailbeat frequencies of three commonly sympatric anadromous fish species of eastern North America, Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar, Striped Bass Morone saxatilis, and American Shad Alosa sapidissima, were measured from imaging sonar data collected in an experimental low‐flow, short‐range setup. The frequencies were significantly different between the species (mean ± 1 SD beats/s: 0.6 ± 0.3 [Atlantic Salmon], 0.9 ± 0.2 [Striped Bass], and 1.4 ± 0.3 [American Shad]) when measured using a previously established manual method. Building on this, an automated method was developed and tested, and the method showed promising results. However, when compared to manually identified number of beats the error was large (on average, 1.1 [Atlantic Salmon], 4.8 [Striped Bass], and −0.4 [American Shad] beats in a fish track), especially in high fish densities. Despite the limitations, the automated method has utility in fisheries management when high‐quality data can be collected for species with differing tailbeat frequencies.
Unpacking Contributions of Morphosyntactic Awareness and Vocabulary to Science Reading Comprehension among Linguistically Diverse Students
Authors: Ardasheva Yuliya , Crosson Amy C. , Carbonneau Kira J. , French Brian F.
Published: May 2021

A lack of familiarity with the lexical, grammatical, and discursive features associated with academic language presents comprehension challenges for many adolescent readers, especially those with still‐developing English language skills. Although many studies focused on reading comprehension in content areas, the prevalent use of standardized tests combining narrative and expository readings across academic domains undermines our understandings of the specialized language and skills required for comprehension in each particular discipline. In this study, we examined contributions of domain‐general and domain‐specific language skills needed for reading in science, a linguistically and cognitively demanding subject area. The sample included 241 Grade 8 students, 64 of whom were emergent English speakers (current ELs). Proficient English speakers included 118 former ELs. Our statistical modeling results explained 80% of the variance in students’ science reading comprehension and science vocabulary scores. Mediated effects of morphosyntactic awareness and a direct effect of science vocabulary on reading comprehension of physical sciences texts were supported. Support is also offered for an appropriate measurement specification for the construct of morphosyntactic awareness and the appropriateness of using definition (breadth) and picture (depth) match tasks for assessing science vocabulary. Less variance was explained in students’ morphosyntactic awareness, a variable that needs further examination.
Arsenic trioxide reduces the expression of E2F1, cyclin E, and phosphorylation of PI3K signaling molecules in acute leukemia cells
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Tchounwou Paul B.
Published: May 2021

Arsenic trioxide (ATO) has been used for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Although ATO modulates cell cycle progression and apoptosis in APL cells, its exact mechanism of action remains elusive. In this research, we investigated its effects on E2F1, cyclin E, p53, pRb, and PI3K signaling molecules by western blotting, immunocytochemistry and/or confocal imaging. We found that ATO inhibited the proliferation of APL cells through down‐regulation of E2F1 and cyclin E expression, and stimulation of pRb. It also reduced the interaction of pRb and E2F1with binding to the E2F1 promoter, by stimulating pRb association. ATO also effected the phosphorylation of pRb at S608 and T373 residues and association of E2F1, pRb, and p53, simultaneously. However, in p53‐knockdown NB4 cells, ATO did not significantly reduce E2F1 and cyclin E expression. Our findings demonstrate that ATO inhibits APL cell growth through reduced expression of E2F1, cyclin E, and stimulation of pRb. It also effected both interaction and association of E2F1, pRb, and p53 by phosphorylation of pRb at T373 and S608 residues and reduced phosphorylation of PI3K signaling molecules. This novel mode of action of ATO in APL cells may be useful for designing new APL drugs.
Iron(II) Complexes Featuring a Redox‐Active Dihydrazonopyrrole Ligand
Authors: Jesse Kate A. , Chang Mu‐Chieh , Filatov Alexander S. , Anderson John S.
Published: May 2021

Nature uses control of the secondary coordination sphere to facilitate an astounding variety of transformations. Similarly, synthetic chemists have found metal‐ligand cooperativity to be a powerful strategy for designing complexes that can mediate challenging reactivity. In particular, this strategy has been used to facilitate two electron reactions with first row transition metals that more typically engage in one electron redox processes. While NNN pincer ligands feature prominently in this area, examples which can potentially engage in both proton and electron transfer are less common. Dihydrazonopyrrole (DHP) ligands have been isolated in a variety of redox and protonation states when complexed to Ni. However, the redox‐state of this ligand scaffold is less obvious when complexed to metal centers with more accessible redox couples. Here, we synthesize a new series of Fe‐DHP complexes in two distinct oxidation states. Detailed characterization supports that the redox‐chemistry in this set is still primarily ligand based. Finally, these complexes exist as 5‐coordinate species with an open coordination site offering the possibility of enhanced reactivity.
Explaining Atomki anomaly and muon g − 2 in U(1)X extended flavour violating two Higgs doublet model
Authors: Nomura Takaaki , Sanyal Prasenjit
Published: May 2021

Abstract

We investigate a two Higgs doublet model with extra flavour depending U(1)X gauge symmetry where Z′ boson interactions can explain the Atomki anomaly by choosing appropriate charge assignment for the SM fermions. For parameter region explaining the Atomki anomaly we obtain light scalar boson with $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(10) GeV mass, and we explore scalar sector to search for allowed parameter space. We then discuss anomalous magnetic dipole moment of muon and lepton flavour violating processes induced by Yukawa couplings of our model.
The EFT-hedron
Authors: Arkani-Hamed Nima , Huang Tzu-Chen , Huang Yu-tin
Published: May 2021

Abstract

We re-examine the constraints imposed by causality and unitarity on the low-energy effective field theory expansion of four-particle scattering amplitudes, exposing a hidden “totally positive” structure strikingly similar to the positive geometries associated with grassmannians and amplituhedra. This forces the infinite tower of higher-dimension operators to lie inside a new geometry we call the “EFT-hedron”. We initiate a systematic investigation of the boundary structure of the EFT-hedron, giving infinitely many linear and non-linear inequalities that must be satisfied by the EFT expansion in any theory. We illustrate the EFT-hedron geometry and constraints in a wide variety of examples, including new consistency conditions on the scattering amplitudes of photons and gravitons in the real world.
Prognostic factors for mortality in 123 severe cases of necrotizing fasciitis in 5 hospitals in the Netherlands between 2003 and 2017
Authors: van Stigt Sander , Knubben Merel , Schrooten Tim , Tan Edward
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a severe soft tissue infection with a high morbidity and mortality. With early diagnosis and treatment this could be reduced. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis can be very difficult. In recent years many risk factors have been identified. In 2004, the Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC) score was developed. A tool that could help diagnosing NF. In this study, we search for prognostic factors for mortality in necrotizing fasciitis.

Methods

All adult patients with histopathological or surgical confirmed NF needed to be admitted to the intensive care unit for at least 24 h between January 2003 and December 2017 in five hospitals from the Nijmegen teaching region were included. We excluded patients with other forms of soft tissue infections or patients with an intensive care unit (ICU) stay of < 24 h because we exclusively wanted to include patients with a fulminant course of necrotizing fasciitis.

Results

We have included 123 cases. The overall mortality was 31.7% (N = 39). The overall mean LRINEC score was 7.4 ± 2.7. Patients who died as the result of NF had a significantly higher median LRINEC score (8 vs. 7, p = 0.034). Other parameters found to be associated with mortality are age ≥ 60 years, cardiovascular disease in the medical history, ≥ 2 comorbidities, and lactate level greater than 1.7 mmol/L.

Conclusion

LRINEC score should be calculated in all patients presenting with NF to provide an additional source for clinical outcome. A high LRINEC score could implicate a higher risk of mortality. Especially in elderly patients, with a cardiac history, more than two comorbidities or a lactate level greater than 1.7 mmol/L.
Invariant plurisubharmonic functions on non-compact Hermitian symmetric spaces
Authors: Geatti Laura , Iannuzzi Andrea
Published: May 2021

Let $$\,G/K\,$$

G
/
K

be an irreducible non-compact Hermitian symmetric space and let $$\,D\,$$

D

be a $$\,K$$

K

-invariant domain in $$\,G/K$$

G
/
K

. In this paper we characterize several classes of $$\,K$$

K

-invariant plurisubharmonic functions on $$\,D\,$$

D

in terms of their restrictions to a slice intersecting all $$\,K$$

K

-orbits. As applications we show that $$\,K$$

K

-invariant plurisubharmonic functions on $$\,D\,$$

D

are necessarily continuous and we reproduce the classification of Stein $$\,K$$

K

-invariant domains in $$\,G/K\,$$

G
/
K

obtained by Bedford and Dadok. (J Geom Anal 1:1–17, 1991).
Hemoconcentration and predictors in Shiga toxin-producing E. coli-hemolytic uremic syndrome (STEC-HUS)
Authors: Loos Sebastian , Oh Jun , van de Loo Laura , Kemper Markus J. , Blohm Martin , Schild Raphael
Published: May 2021

Background

Hemoconcentration has been identified as a risk factor for a complicated course in Shiga toxin-producing E. coli-hemolytic uremic syndrome (STEC-HUS). This single-center study assesses hemoconcentration and predictors at presentation in STEC-HUS treated from 2009–2017.

Methods

Data of 107 pediatric patients with STEC-HUS were analyzed retrospectively. Patients with mild HUS (mHUS, definition: max. serum creatinine < 1.5 mg/dL and no major neurological symptoms) were compared to patients with severe HUS (sHUS, definition: max. serum creatinine ≥ 1.5 mg/dL ± major neurological symptoms). Additionally, predictors of complicated HUS (dialysis ± major neurological symptoms) were analyzed.

Results

Sixteen of one hundred seven (15%) patients had mHUS. Admission of patients with sHUS occurred median 2 days earlier after the onset of symptoms than in patients with mHUS. On admission, patients with subsequent sHUS had significantly higher median hemoglobin (9.5 g/dL (3.6–15.7) vs. 8.5 g/dL (4.2–11.5), p = 0.016) than patients with mHUS. The product of hemoglobin (g/dL) and LDH (U/L) (cutoff value 13,302, sensitivity 78.0%, specificity of 87.5%) was a predictor of severe vs. mild HUS. Creatinine (AUC 0.86, 95% CI 0.79–0.93) and the previously published score hemoglobin (g/dL) + 2 × creatinine (mg/dL) showed a good prediction for development of complicated HUS (AUC 0.87, 95% CI 0.80–0.93).

Conclusions

At presentation, patients with subsequent severe STEC-HUS had a higher degree of hemoconcentration. This underlines that fluid loss or reduced fluid intake/administration may be a risk factor for severe HUS. The good predictive value of the score hemoglobin (g/dL) + 2 × creatinine (mg/dL) for complicated HUS could be validated in our cohort.

Graphical abstract
On separability properties in direct products of semigroups
Authors: O’Reilly Gerard , Quick Martyn , Ruškuc Nik
Published: May 2021

We investigate four finiteness conditions related to residual finiteness: complete separability, strong subsemigroup separability, weak subsemigroup separability and monogenic subsemigroup separability. For each of these properties we examine under which conditions the property is preserved under direct products. We also consider if any of the properties are inherited by the factors in a direct product. We give necessary and sufficient conditions for finite semigroups to preserve the properties of strong subsemigroup separability and monogenic subsemigroup separability in a direct product.
Correction to: Clinical usefulness of eribulin as first- or second-line chemotherapy for recurrent HER2-negative breast cancer: a randomized phase II study (JBCRG-19)
Authors: Aogi Kenjiro , Watanabe Kenichi , Kitada Masahiro , Sangai Takafumi , Ohtani Shoichiro , Aruga Tomoyuki , Kawagichi Hidetoshi , Fujisawa Tomomi , Maeda Shigeto , Morimoto Takashi , Sato Nobuaki , Takao Shintaro , Morita Satoshi , Masuda Norikazu , Toi Masakazu , Ohno Shinji
Published: May 2021

In the original publication, the name of the fourth author should be: Takafumi Sangai and his affiliation should be.
Phenotypic and genotypic resistance to colistin in E. coli isolated from wild boar (Sus scrofa) hunted in Italy
Authors: Cilia Giovanni , Turchi Barbara , Fratini Filippo , Ebani Valentina Virginia , Turini Luca , Cerri Domenico , Bertelloni Fabrizio
Published: May 2021

The One Health approach is not only focused on diseases and zoonosis control but also on antimicrobial resistance. As concern this important issue, the problem of plasmid-mediated colistin resistance recently emerged. Few studies reported data about colistin resistance and mcr genes in bacteria from wildlife. In this manuscript, 168 Escherichia coli isolated from hunted wild boar were tested; colistin resistance was evaluated by MIC microdilution method, and the presence of mcr-1 and mcr-2 genes was evaluated by PCR. Overall, 27.9% of isolates resulted resistant to colistin, and most of them showed a MIC value > 256 μg/mL. A percentage of 44.6% of tested E. coli scored positive for one or both genes. In details, 13.6% of isolated harbored mcr-1 and mcr-2 in combination; most of them exhibiting the highest MIC values. Interestingly, 19.6% of mcr-positive E. coli resulted phenotypically susceptible to colistin. Wild boar could be considered a potential reservoir of colistin-resistant bacteria. In the light of the possible contacts with domestic animals and humans, this wild species could play an important role in the diffusion of colistin resistance. Thus, the monitoring programs on wildlife should include this aspect.
Monitoring air pollution close to a cement plant and in a multi-source industrial area through tree-ring analysis
Authors: Cocozza Claudia , Alterio Edoardo , Bachmann Olivier , Guillong Marcel , Sitzia Tommaso , Cherubini Paolo
Published: May 2021

Thirty-two trace elements were examined in the tree rings of downy oak to evaluate the pollution levels close to a cement plant isolated in a rural context and an industrial area where multiple sources of air pollution are or were present. Tree cores were collected from trees growing 1 km from both the cement plant and the industrial area that are located 8 km from each other. The analysis of the trace elements was performed on annual tree rings from 1990 to 2016 using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Trace elements Cs, Mg, Mn, S and Zn reflected the emission history of the cement plant. Their values have increased since early 2000s, when the cement plant started its activity. However, the lack of significant trends of pollutants in the tree rings from the industrial area and the possible effect of translocation and volatility of some elements left open questions. The very weak changes of the other trace elements in the period 1990–2016 suggest those elements do not mark any additional effect of the industrial activity on the background pollution. The results confirm that downy oak trees growing close to isolated industrial plants must be considered a pollution forest archive accessible through dendrochemistry.
Effect of Cold Working and Long-Term Heating in Air on the Stress Corrosion Cracking Growth Rate in Commercial TT Alloy 690 Exposed to Simulated PWR Primary Water
Authors: Yonezawa Toshio , Hashimoto Atsushi
Published: May 2021

The authors have previously reported that the number of cavities at or near grain boundary (GB) carbides in commercial thermally treated (TT) Alloy 690 increases with increasing cold work reduction ratio and with heating temperature in air. In the present work after very long-term heating in air, the number of cavities at or near GB carbides in cold worked commercial TT Alloy 690 was observed to saturate, and the shape and size of the cavities changed. The shape and size of cavities and cracks were categorized, and a GB defect index number was defined as a function of their number, shape and size. Stress corrosion cracking growth rates in a commercial TT Alloy 690 with various levels of cold work exposed to simulated PWR primary water at 633 K (360 °C) have been measured and correlated with the defined GB defect index number. Cavities and cracks in the same materials before and after long-term heating in air have also been correlated with the defined GB defect index number. For the heavily cold worked (≥ 15 pct) commercial TT Alloy 690, a good correlation has been observed between the PWSCCGR and the GB defect index number. By contrast, for lightly cold worked (≤ 10 pct) commercial TT Alloy 690, the SCCGR in the simulated PWR primary water was very low and the GB defect index number was usually zero, regardless of cold working reduction ratio ≤ 10 pct. It is concluded that the mechanism of SCCGR for lightly cold worked TT Alloy 690 in PWR primary water is likely to be different from that for heavily cold worked TT Alloy 690.