bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVOLUTION AND PROSPECTS OF ENERGY AND RESOURCE SAVING APPROACHES IN AMMONIA TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Aksenchik Konstantin V.
Published: January 2021

Nitrogen is one of the nutrients required for plant nutrition. The problem of fixing atmospheric nitrogen continues to be relevant at the present time. If at the beginning of the 20th century the problem was solved in the direction of ammonia synthesis, today the search trend has shifted to energy and resource saving. The presence of a strong triple chemical bond in the nitrogen molecule determines the high energy intensity of industrial production of bound nitrogen compounds. This review article is examined the evolution of ammonia technology, as the most common compound of fixed nitrogen, from the standpoint of improving approaches to energy and resource saving. The existing high rates of consumption of fossil carbon fuels, especially natural gas, which is currently the main raw material for the production of ammonia, and the associated annual growing emissions of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, require scientists around the world to research for alternative methods of industrial production of ammonia. In this article, an attempt is made to identify the features and chronological framework of the main stages in the development of approaches to energy and resource saving in ammonia technology. The methods of improvement and contributing factors in relation to the stages of development are determined. A comparative assessment of the known options for the technology of ammonia and bound nitrogen compounds in terms of resource and energy consumption at different stages of development is given. Comparison of the power technology units for ammonia synthesis operating in Russia in terms of resource and energy consumption is performed. It is shown that the current state of ammonia technology is characterized by an almost complete exhaustion of possible options for further energy and resource saving of known technological schemes. It is shown that ammonia technologies using natural gas in the future will no longer meet the tightening requirements for the level of carbon dioxide emissions. The estimation of energy consumption of alternative methods of ammonia production is given.
Therapeutic Effects of Prolonged Release Melatonin (Circadin®) in Patients with Overactive Bladder and Chronic Insomnia in More Than 55 Years Old
Authors: Park Min Jung , Seo Seon Young , Park Hyun Jun , Park Jih Hoon , Lim Mi Young , Park Nam Cheol
Published: January 2021

Objectives Bladder storage symptoms including nocturia is the most common cause of sleep disturbance in all age groups. Sleep disturbance is also a main cause of nocturia so that sleep recovery can clinically improve nocturia. Melatonin has main action to induce sleep and additional effects of smooth muscle relaxation, free radical scavenging, anti-inflammation, et cetera. This study was evaluated the improvement of sleep quality after administrating prolonged-release melatonin in elderly patients with overactive bladder and chronic insomnia. Methods This clinical trial was performed with a randomized single open study. Thirty-seven patients with overactive bladder and chronic insomnia were initially enrolled in this study. After 4 or 12 weeks treating with 2 mg of prolonged-release melatonin, clinical outcomes were evaluated with OABSS, IPSS, PSQI and WHO 5 well-being index. Results Of the 37 patients, 34 (91.9%) were included in the ITT group and 26 (76.5%) in the PP group. In the primary outcome of PP group, significant improvements were observed in total OABSS and nocturia frequencies at 12 weeks, respectively. Secondary outcome measurement including in voiding, storage symptoms, and total IPSS scores showed the improvement at 4 and 12 weeks and in total and sleep quality PSQI scores at 12 weeks, and in quality of life scores of the WHO 5 well-being index at 12 weeks. Only one (3.8%) adverse event was observed. Conclusions These results suggest clearly that prolonged-release melatonin in elderly patients with overactive bladder and chronic insomnia has the potential to control concomitant voiding and sleep difficulty.
Differences in Endoscopic Findings of Primary and Secondary Gastric Lymphoma
Authors: Jung Kyoungwon , Jeon Hae Soo , Park Moo In , Choe Il Hyeong , Je Hyun Seung , Kim Jae Hyun , Kim Sung Eun , Moon Won , Park Seun Ja
Published: January 2021

Objectives : Since endoscopic findings of primary gastric lymphoma are ambiguous and diverse, it is not easy to distinguish them from gastric adenocarcinoma or secondary gastric lymphoma. The aim of this study was to investigate the difference in clinical and endoscopic features between primary gastric lymphoma and gastric involvement of lymphoma. Methods : Forty-eight patients were enrolled in this retrospective study between June 2008 and February 2017. The patients were divided into primary gastric lymphoma group (primary group, n = 18) and gastric involvement group (secondary group, n = 30) based on whether or not they carried gastric lesions alone. Patients’ clinical characteristics, endoscopic findings and pathologic data were retrospectively reviewed based on electronic medical records. Results : The mean age of patients was 63.3 ± 13.1 years and 29 patients were female (60.4%). Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma pathology (81.3%), gastric body involvement (47.9%) and ulceroinfiltrative morphology on endoscopy (43.8%) were common features. Regardless of the two groups, the initial endoscopic diagnosis was considered as lymphoma only in 41.7%. Compared with the primary group, fundus ( P = 0.035) and regional lymph node ( P < 0.001) were significantly associated with the secondary group. However, there was no significant difference in endoscopic findings including location, size, number, and morphology of lesion. Conclusions : Endoscopic diagnosis of gastric lymphoma is a challenge. There is no difference in endoscopic findings between the primary and secondary groups even when confirmed separately. However, when the lesion is present in the fundus, we keep in mind the possibility of secondary gastric lymphoma.
Effects of White-coat Hypertension on Heart Rate Recovery and Blood Pressure Response during Exercise Test
Authors: Jin Sol , Heo Jung Ho , Kim Bong Jun
Published: January 2021

Objectives White-coat hypertension is defined as high blood pressure (BP) on clinical assessment but normal BP elsewhere or on ambulatory measurement. Autonomic dysfunction may be one of the mechanisms causing white-coat hypertension. Slowed heart rate recovery and excessive BP response during exercise test are associated with autonomic dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between white-coat hypertension and abnormal autonomic nervous system response. Methods We assessed 295 patients stratified into three groups via 24hr ambulatory BP monitoring, following 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines: normal BP group, white-coat hypertension group, and a hypertension group. We analyzed medical history, blood test, echocardiography, 24hr ambulatory BP monitoring, and exercise test data. Results There was no difference in basement characteristics and echocardiography among the groups. Blunted heart rate recovery of each group showed a significant difference. Control group had 0% blunted heart rate recovery, but 33.3% in white coat group and 27.6% in true hypertension group ( P < 0.001). Also, in the control group, 4.5% showed excessive BP response, but 31.5% in the white coat hypertension group and 29.3% in the true hypertension group ( P < 0.001). Excessive BP response during the exercise test or blunted heart rate recovery, which is an indicator of autonomic nervous system abnormality, was more common in the hypertensive group and white-coat hypertension group than in the normal BP group. Conclusions These results confirmed that white-coat hypertension has an autonomic nervous system risk. Therefore, white-coat hypertension can be a future cardiovascular risk factor.
ANDADITO: SOBRE LA CONSTRUCCIÓN GERUNDIO + DIMINUTIVO EN EL ESPAÑOL ACTUAL
Authors: Ruiz Pareja Raquel
Published: January 2021

En este trabajo intentamos profundizar en el estudio de la construcción “gerundio + diminutivo”, sobre la que no parece haber mucha bibliografía especializada. Utilizaremos los dos corpora de Mark Davis que están enfocados en hablas modernas del español (“Now” y “Web/Dialects”), para ver cuán frecuente es este fenómeno, dónde y cómo se produce. A través del análisis de algunos ejemplos concretos procederemos a corroborar, primero, algunos puntos de las hipótesis ya existentes sobre esta construcción, y, sobre todo, a corregir/modificar otros que lo necesiten. Usaremos para ello distintas teorías sobre el diminutivo, el gerundio y el aspecto léxico. Veremos que la realidad dista en múltiples ocasiones de corresponderse con lo que dice las teorías, y que algunas de ellas necesitan actualizarse casi por completo.
CARACTERIZACIÓN DISCURSIVA DE UN GÉNERO HÍBRIDO: LA CONVERSACIÓN HUMORÍSTICA EN «NADIE SABE NADA»
Authors: Server Benetó Natàlia
Published: January 2021

En los últimos años han surgido géneros (especialmente audiovisuales) que podríamos denominar híbridos, puesto que comparten características formales o funcionales de varios géneros tradicionales. En la línea de estas investigaciones, el objetivo de este estudio es la caracterización discursiva de un género híbrido con fuertes componentes conversacionales y humorísticos. Nuestro objeto de estudio ha sido el programa radiofónico de improvisación llamado «Nadie Sabe Nada», de la Cadena Ser, presentado por Andreu Buenafuente y Berto Romero. Dada la interacción aparentemente espontánea y no guionizada entre los presentadores, la pregunta de investigación es si se trata de una conversación coloquial o no y qué diferencias se encuentran con la conversación coloquial prototípica. Para ello, y desde la perspectiva de análisis de la conversación coloquial de Briz et al. (2002) y de la lingüística del humor de Ruiz Gurillo (2012, 2014), se han buscado características típicamente coloquiales en el corpus de «Nadie sabe nada» en el nivel fónico, pragmático, morfosintáctico, léxico y estructural para observar las semejanzas y diferencias entre la conversación y el género estudiado. Los primeros resultados muestran que este programa supone un género híbrido entre el monólogo de humor clásico y la conversación coloquial. Aunque los límites no sean taxativos, la intención comunicativa (transaccional) de los hablantes marca una línea clara entre la convesación coloquial prototípica y el discurso humorístico. Este género híbrido se ha denominado «conversación humorística».
A Multidimensional Evaluation of the Sustainable Development of European Union Countries – An Empirical Study
Authors: Kiselakova Dana , Stec Małgorzata , Grzebyk Mariola , Sofrankova Beata
Published: January 2021

The main aim of this research paper is to compare the total synthetic measure value of sustainable development for each EU country using a multidimensional comparative analysis of the EU countries in terms of sustainable development. The statistical evaluation of this complex phenomenon was based on 108 statistical indicators describing 17 goals of sustainable development which were taken from the Eurostat database. The statistical data applies mostly to the year 2018. The zero unitarization method was applied as a research tool. Passing through consecutive stages, the values of synthetic measures with variables determining the subsequent goals of sustainable development were set. Our study led to the ranking of EU countries into groups of high, medium-high, medium-low and low level of sustainable development. The results confirmed that the leaders of sustainable development in the EU are Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Austria. Most EU countries have reached the medium level, while Romania, Bulgaria, Greece and Cyprus have poorly realized the goals of sustainable development. Due to the growing importance of countries of the Visegrad group in Europe, this article also subjected them to a more detailed assessment in terms of their sustainable development. Among the Visegrad countries, only the Czech Republic has reached a medium-high level of sustainable development. The other three countries, i. e. Hungary, Poland and Slovakia, hold a similar position in the ranking of EU countries in terms of sustainable development. Considering future generations, the implementation of the goals of sustainable development as well as the identification of key indicators for each country are becoming an important challenge in terms of global market competitiveness.
A Vector Autoregression Analysis of Foreign Direct Investment and Its Link to Competitiveness
Authors: Skare Marinko , Cvek Dajana
Published: January 2021

This study has investigated the impact of foreign investments on competitiveness in Croatia in terms of macroeconomic stability conditions using data from 2002 to 2017. In this paper, we focus on the relationship between critical macroeconomic indicators and foreign direct investments (FDI) as a growth and competitiveness driving factor. To study the impact of FDI on competitiveness levels in Croatia, time series methods are used. Macroeconomic stability is a necessary but not sufficient condition for economic competitiveness. FDI can increase the level of economy’s competitiveness, although the total effect depends on the FDI structure (greenfield vs brownfield). The vector auto-regression (VAR) model and Granger causality have identified a decrease in FDI inflows in the recession period. There is a correlation between FDI, employment, GDP and exports. The goal of our study is to investigate the impact of FDI on macroeconomic indicators, FDI inflow determinants, and their impact on the overall competitiveness and growth. In this study, we identify and explain the positive and negative effects of FDI setting the framework for efficient macroeconomic policy. The results should serve policymakers in efforts to improve decisions that affect the country’s macroeconomic competitiveness. Significant differences were demonstrated in Croatia’s macroeconomic performance over the observed period. Our results show FDI as a potential inefficiency growth factor among selected indicators if it is not controlled in terms of investment structures and funding sources. The country’s competitiveness depends on stock investment, but even more on the structure of the FDI flowing in the economy.
Lapses in perceptual decisions reflect exploration
Authors: Pisupati Sashank , Chartarifsky-Lynn Lital , Khanal Anup , Churchland Anne K
Published: January 2021

Perceptual decision-makers often display a constant rate of errors independent of evidence strength. These ‘lapses’ are treated as a nuisance arising from noise tangential to the decision, e.g. inattention or motor errors. Here, we use a multisensory decision task in rats to demonstrate that these explanations cannot account for lapses’ stimulus dependence. We propose a novel explanation: lapses reflect a strategic trade-off between exploiting known rewarding actions and exploring uncertain ones. We tested this model’s predictions by selectively manipulating one action’s reward magnitude or probability. As uniquely predicted by this model, changes were restricted to lapses associated with that action. Finally, we show that lapses are a powerful tool for assigning decision-related computations to neural structures based on disruption experiments (here, posterior striatum and secondary motor cortex). These results suggest that lapses reflect an integral component of decision-making and are informative about action values in normal and disrupted brain states.
The orchestrated cellular and molecular responses of the kidney to endotoxin define a precise sepsis timeline
Authors: Janosevic Danielle , Myslinski Jered , McCarthy Thomas W , Zollman Amy , Syed Farooq , Xuei Xiaoling , Gao Hongyu , Liu Yun-Long , Collins Kimberly S , Cheng Ying-Hua , Winfree Seth , El-Achkar Tarek M , Maier Bernhard , Melo Ferreira Ricardo , Eadon Michael T , Hato Takashi , Dagher Pierre C
Published: January 2021

Sepsis is a dynamic state that progresses at variable rates and has life-threatening consequences. Staging patients along the sepsis timeline requires a thorough knowledge of the evolution of cellular and molecular events at the tissue level. Here, we investigated the kidney, an organ central to the pathophysiology of sepsis. Single-cell RNA-sequencing in a murine endotoxemia model revealed the involvement of various cell populations to be temporally organized and highly orchestrated. Endothelial and stromal cells were the first responders. At later time points, epithelial cells upregulated immune-related pathways while concomitantly downregulating physiological functions such as solute homeostasis. Sixteen hours after endotoxin, there was global cell–cell communication failure and organ shutdown. Despite this apparent organ paralysis, upstream regulatory analysis showed significant activity in pathways involved in healing and recovery. This rigorous spatial and temporal definition of murine endotoxemia will uncover precise biomarkers and targets that can help stage and treat human sepsis.
Development of antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity function in HIV-1 antibodies
Authors: Doepker Laura E , Danon Sonja , Harkins Elias , Ralph Duncan K , Yaffe Zak , Garrett Meghan E , Dhar Amrit , Wagner Cassia , Stumpf Megan M , Arenz Dana , Williams James A , Jaoko Walter , Mandaliya Kishor , Lee Kelly K , Matsen Frederick A , Overbaugh Julie M
Published: January 2021

A prerequisite for the design of an HIV vaccine that elicits protective antibodies is understanding the developmental pathways that result in desirable antibody features. The development of antibodies that mediate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) is particularly relevant because such antibodies have been associated with HIV protection in humans. We reconstructed the developmental pathways of six human HIV-specific ADCC antibodies using longitudinal antibody sequencing data. Most of the inferred naive antibodies did not mediate detectable ADCC. Gain of antigen binding and ADCC function typically required mutations in complementarity determining regions of one or both chains. Enhancement of ADCC potency often required additional mutations in framework regions. Antigen binding affinity and ADCC activity were correlated, but affinity alone was not sufficient to predict ADCC potency. Thus, elicitation of broadly active ADCC antibodies may require mutations that enable high-affinity antigen recognition along with mutations that optimize factors contributing to functional ADCC activity.
Temporal evolution of single-cell transcriptomes of Drosophila olfactory projection neurons
Authors: Xie Qijing , Brbic Maria , Horns Felix , Kolluru Sai Saroja , Jones Robert C , Li Jiefu , Reddy Anay R , Xie Anthony , Kohani Sayeh , Li Zhuoran , McLaughlin Colleen N , Li Tongchao , Xu Chuanyun , Vacek David , Luginbuhl David J , Leskovec Jure , Quake Stephen R , Luo Liqun , Li Hongjie
Published: January 2021

Neurons undergo substantial morphological and functional changes during development to form precise synaptic connections and acquire specific physiological properties. What are the underlying transcriptomic bases? Here, we obtained the single-cell transcriptomes ofDrosophilaolfactory projection neurons (PNs) at four developmental stages. We decoded the identity of 21 transcriptomic clusters corresponding to 20 PN types and developed methods to match transcriptomic clusters representing the same PN type across development. We discovered that PN transcriptomes reflect unique biological processes unfolding at each stage—neurite growth and pruning during metamorphosis at an early pupal stage; peaked transcriptomic diversity during olfactory circuit assembly at mid-pupal stages; and neuronal signaling in adults. At early developmental stages, PN types with adjacent birth order share similar transcriptomes. Together, our work reveals principles of cellular diversity during brain development and provides a resource for future studies of neural development in PNs and other neuronal types.
Single-cell chromatin accessibility profiling of glioblastoma identifies an invasive cancer stem cell population associated with lower survival
Authors: Guilhamon Paul , Chesnelong Charles , Kushida Michelle M , Nikolic Ana , Singhal Divya , MacLeod Graham , Madani Tonekaboni Seyed Ali , Cavalli Florence MG , Arlidge Christopher , Rajakulendran Nishani , Rastegar Naghmeh , Hao Xiaoguang , Hassam Rozina , Smith Laura J , Whetstone Heather , Coutinho Fiona J , Nadorp Bettina , Ellestad Katrina I , Luchman H Artee , Chan Jennifer Ai-wen , Shoichet Molly S , Taylor Michael D , Haibe-Kains Benjamin , Weiss Samuel , Angers Stephane , Gallo Marco , Dirks Peter B , Lupien Mathieu
Published: January 2021

Chromatin accessibility discriminates stem from mature cell populations, enabling the identification of primitive stem-like cells in primary tumors, such as glioblastoma (GBM) where self-renewing cells driving cancer progression and recurrence are prime targets for therapeutic intervention. We show, using single-cell chromatin accessibility, that primary human GBMs harbor a heterogeneous self-renewing population whose diversity is captured in patient-derived glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs). In-depth characterization of chromatin accessibility in GSCs identifies three GSC states: Reactive, Constructive, and Invasive, each governed by uniquely essential transcription factors and present within GBMs in varying proportions. Orthotopic xenografts reveal that GSC states associate with survival, and identify an invasive GSC signature predictive of low patient survival, in line with the higher invasive properties of Invasive state GSCs compared to Reactive and Constructive GSCs as shown by in vitro and in vivo assays. Our chromatin-driven characterization of GSC states improves prognostic precision and identifies dependencies to guide combination therapies.
New distributional records of the Samana least gecko (Sphaerodactylus samanensis, Cochran, 1932) with comments on its morphological variation and conservation status
Authors: Chávez Germán , Landestoy T Miguel A. , Ross Gail S. , Ugarte-Núñez Joaquín A.
Published: January 2021

We report here five new localities across the distribution of the lizard Sphaerodactylus samanensis, extending its current geographic range to the west, in the Cordillera Central of Hispaniola. We also report phenotypic variation in the color pattern and scutellation on throat and pelvic regions of males from both eastern and western populations, which is described below. Furthermore, based on these new data, we confirm that the species is not fitting in its current IUCN category, and in consequence propose updating its conservation status.
Evaluation of resistance to powdery mildew and identification of resistance genes in wheat cultivars
Authors: Wu Xianxin , Bian Qiang , Gao Yue , Ni Xinyu , Sun Yanqiu , Xuan Yuanhu , Cao Yuanyin , Li Tianya
Published: January 2021

Wheat powdery mildew, caused by the biotrophic fungus Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (Bgt), is a serious disease of wheat worldwide that can cause significant yield losses. Growing resistant cultivars is the most cost-effective and eco-soundly strategy to manage the disease. Therefore, a high breeding priority is to identify genes that can be readily used either singly or in combination for effective resistance to powdery mildew and also in combination with genes for resistance to other diseases. Yunnan Province, with complex and diverse ecological environments and climates, is one of the main wheat growing regions in China. This region provides initial inoculum for starting epidemics of wheat powdery mildew in the region and other regions and thus, plays a key role in the regional and large-scale epidemics of the disease throughout China. The objectives of this study were to evaluate seedling resistance of 69 main wheat cultivars to powdery mildew and to determine the presence of resistance genes Pm3, Pm8, Pm13, Pm16, and Pm21in these cultivars using gene specific DNA markers. Evaluation of 69 wheat cultivars with six Bgt isolates showed that only four cultivars were resistant to all tested isolates, indicating that the overall level of powdery mildew resistance of Yunnan wheat cultivars is inadequate. The molecular marker results showed that 27 cultivars likely have at least one of these genes. Six cultivars were found likely to have Pm3,18 likely to have Pm8,5 likely to have Pm16,and 3 likely to have Pm21. No cultivar was found to carry Pm13. The information on the presence of the Pmresistance genes in Yunnan wheat cultivars can be used in future wheat disease breeding programs. In particular, cultivars carrying Pm21, which is effective against all Bgtraces in China, should be pyramided with other effective genes to developing new cultivars with durable resistance to powdery mildew.
Assessment of the efficacy of using taurine supplements to improve growth and feed utilization of juvenile starry flounder (Platichthys stellatus) given diets based on soy-protein
Authors: Li Peiyu , Bu Hongyi , Li Baoshan , Sun Yongzhi , Wang Meiqi , Song Zhidong
Published: January 2021

A feeding trial was conducted to assess the feasibility of supplementing taurine in soy-based diets for juvenile starry flounder Platichthys stellatus. The basal diet (Crude protein 66.5%, crude lipid 8.5%) was supplemented with 0 (control), 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0% and 2.5% taurine to formulate six test diets. Each diet was fed to 40 juvenile fish (22.25 g) in triplicate tanks (120 L) attached to a sea water circulation-system. Fish were fed twice daily by hand to apparent satiation during the 56-d trial. At the end of the trial, fish were counted and weighed for the analyses of growth performance, diet utilization and survival after a 24-h fast. Blood, intestines and muscles were collected for the analyses of serum oxidation resistance, digestive enzymes and body compostion. Livers were collected from the remaining fish at 4 h post-feeding for metabolic enzymes analyses. The results showed that fish fed diets supplemented with 1.0–2.5% taurine grew from 22.25–22.26 g to 47.88–50.40 g with higher average weight gain (25.62–28.12 vs 23.07 g ), specific growth rate (1.37–1.46 vs 1.27%/d ), feed intake (1.04–1.06 vs 1.00%/d), protein efficiency (2.50–2.61 vs 2.44) and lower feed conversion rate (0.84–0.83 vs 0.89) than the control treatment. Diets supplemented with 1.5–2.5% taurine significantly elevated the activities of pepsin (2.47–2.55 vs 2.22, U mg−1 prot), trypsin of distal intestine(14.55–15.24 vs 11.94, U mg−1 prot), hepatic glucokinase (126.62–129.42 vs 105.56, U mg−1 prot) and fatty acid synthetase (125.56-136.89 vs 108.45, U mg−1 prot). All diets supplemented with taurine increased the activities of lipase (32.23–36.67 vs 29.53, U g−1 prot) and trypsin (35.85–37.89 vs 33.54, U mg−1 prot) of proximal intestine, hepatic aspartate transaminase (736.990–832.38 vs 699.24, U mg−1 prot), alanine aminotransferase (477.40–551.86 vs 373.97, U mg−1 prot) and glycogen synthase (2.16–2.59 vs 1.97, U mg−1 prot), as well as serum superoxide dismutase (4.33–4.59 vs 4.07, U mg−1 prot ) and glutathione peroxidase (42.23–50.25 vs 39.17, mol mg−1 prot). Therefore, taurine supplementation benefits juvenile starry flounder growth, digestion, nutrients metabolism and oxidation resistance. The optimal taurine requirement for starry flounder is 1.75%, and the recommended supplementation level is at least 1.6% for maximizing growth of fish fed a low-fishmeal diet (13.6%).
The 2020 elephant die-off in Botswana
Authors: van Aarde Rudi J. , Pimm Stuart L. , Guldemond Robert , Huang Ryan , Maré Celesté
Published: January 2021

The cause of deaths of 350 elephants in 2020 in a relatively small unprotected area of northern Botswana is unknown, and may never be known. Media speculations about it ignore ecological realities. Worse, they make conjectures that can be detrimental to wildlife and sometimes discredit conservation incentives. A broader understanding of the ecological and conservation issues speaks to elephant management across the Kavango–Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area that extends across Botswana, Namibia, Angola, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Our communication addresses these. Malicious poisoning and poaching are unlikely to have played a role. Other species were unaffected, and elephant carcases had their tusks intact. Restriction of freshwater supplies that force elephants to use pans as a water source possibly polluted by blue-green algae blooms is a possible cause, but as yet not supported by evidence. No other species were involved. A contagious disease is the more probable one. Fences and a deep channel of water confine these elephants’ dispersal. These factors explain the elephants’ relatively high population growth rate despite a spell of increased poaching during 2014–2018. While the deaths represent only ~2% of the area’s elephants, the additive effects of poaching and stress induced by people protecting their crops cause alarm. Confinement and relatively high densities probably explain why the die-off occurred only here. It suggests a re-alignment or removal of fences that restrict elephant movements and limits year-round access to freshwater.
Vibration Anomaly Detection using Deep Neural Network and Convolutional Neural Network
Authors:   University “Politehnica” of Bucharest, Romania, Deac Crina , Călin Deac Gicu , Constantin Parpală Radu , Laurentiu Popa Cicerone , Emil Cotet Costel
Published: January 2021

Identifying the “health state” of the equipment is the domain of condition monitoring. The paper proposes a study of two models: DNN (Deep Neural Network) and CNN (Convolutional Neural Network) over an existent dataset provided by Case Western Reserve University for analyzing vibrations in fault diagnosis. After the model is trained on the windowed dataset using an optimal learning rate, minimizing the cost function, and is tested by computing the loss, accuracy and precision across the results, the weights are saved, and the models can be tested on other real data. The trained model recognizes raw time series data collected by micro electro-mechanical accelerometer sensors and detects anomalies based on former times series entries.
Risk factors and predictors for tumor site origin in metastatic adenocarcinoma of unknown primary site
Authors: Li Xinrong , Shao Yan , Sheng Liqiang , Zhu Junquan , Wang Zeming , Guo Kaibo , Sun Leitao
Published: January 2021

Background

Metastatic adenocarcinoma of unknown primary site (MACUP) is the most common cancer of unknown primary site, and shows worse prognosis. Prediction of its tumor site origin attracts a growing attention. However, the site determined by gene expression profiling does not have a significant impact on the survival. Some other special method might need to be found out.

Methods

We reviewed 1011 MACUP patients diagnosed by pathological examination and immunohistochemistry based on the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database during 2010–2016. Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox proportional hazard model were analyzed to compare the survival. Logistic regression models and relevant nomograms were performed to predicting the probability of the primary site which including digestive system, respiratory system, and female breast. The validation and clinical utility of models were measured with relevant statistical approaches.

Results

About 324 (32.1%), 299 (29.6%), and 203 (20.1%) of MACUP patients were identified as the primary sites of digestive system, respiratory system, and female breast, respectively. Patients derived from digestive system and respiratory system showed poorer survival than these with other sites. Digestive system was significantly associated with liver (Odds ratio =13.21 [95% confidence interval =8.48–21.02]) or lung (2.36 [1.40–3.97]) metastasis, while respiratory system was linked to brain (11.68 [6.68–21.26]) or lymph node (3.39 [2.26–5.13]) metastasis. Patients identified as female breast were prone to occur bone metastasis (5.85 [3.68–9.45]). Logistic regression nomograms were developed to help clinicians intuitively predict the probabilities of tumor site origin with 0.867, 0.824, and 0.753 of the C‐index, respectively. Decision curve analysis and clinical impact curves both revealed the clinical effectiveness.

Conclusions

We profiled different tumor site origin of MACUP patients and established prediction models. These features might be significant for clinicians to improve the probabilities of predicting the primary sites, and to decide subsequent treatment strategy.
Influence of Surface‐Modified Nanoparticles on the Hydrodynamics of Rising Bubbles
Authors: Fayzi Pouyan , Bastani Dariush , Lotfi Marzieh , Miller Reinhard
Published: January 2021

Local velocities of bubbles rising in four different nanosilica solutions were investigated experimentally. Also, the density, viscosity, and surface tension of fumed nanosilica and modified nanosilica solutions were measured. Heat treatment and chemical functionalization were used to modify the properties of silica nanoparticles. It was found that the addition of nanosilica affected the hydrodynamics of the rising bubble by increasing the drag friction at the interface. However, environmentally responsive nanosilica particles behaved like surfactant molecules, due to the interfacial activity of hydrophilic and hydrophobic chains. Silica nanoparticles coated with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic agents had a stronger effect on the interfacial properties than those coated only with the hydrophobic agent.
Amorphous Boron Dispersed in LaCoO3 with Large Oxygen Vacancies for Efficient Catalytic Propane Oxidation
Authors: Zheng Yingbin , Chen Yinye , Wu Enhui , Liu Xinping , Huang Baoquan , Xue Hun , Cao Changlin , Luo Yongjin , Qian Qingrong , Chen Qinghua
Published: January 2021

Unsatisfactory oxygen mobility is a considerable barrier to the development of perovskites for low‐temperature volatile organic compounds (VOCs) oxidation. This work introduced small amounts of dispersed non‐metal boron into the LaCoO3 crystal through an easy sol‐gel method to create more oxygen defects, which are conducive to the catalytic performance of propane (C3H8) oxidation. It reveals that moderate addition of boron successfully induces a high distortion of the LaCoO3 crystal, decreases the perovskite particle size, and produces a large proportion of bulk Co2+ species corresponding to abundant oxygen vacancies. Additionally, surface Co3+ species, as the acid sites, which are active for cleaving the C−H bonds of C3H8 molecules, are enriched. As a result, the LCB‐7 (molar ratio of Co/B=0.93:0.07) displays the best C3H8 oxidation activity. Simultaneously, the above catalyst exhibits superior thermal stability against CO2 and H2O, lasting 200 h. This work provides a new strategy for modifying the catalytic VOCs oxidation performance of perovskites by the regulation of amorphous boron dispersion.
Temperature Dependence of 1H Paramagnetic Chemical Shifts in Actinide Complexes, Beyond Bleaney's Theory: The AnVIO22+–Dipicolinic Acid Complexes (An=Np, Pu) as an Example
Authors: Autillo Matthieu , Islam Md. Ashraful , Héron Julie , Guérin Laetitia , Acher Eleonor , Tamain Christelle , Illy Marie‐Claire , Moisy Philippe , Colineau Eric , Griveau Jean‐Christophe , Berthon Claude , Bolvin Hélène
Published: January 2021

Actinide +VI complexes (
=
,
and
) with dipicolinic acid derivatives were synthesized and characterized by powder XRD, SQUID magnetometry and NMR spectroscopy. In addition,
and
complexes were described by first principles CAS based and two‐component spin‐restricted DFT methods. The analysis of the 1H paramagnetic NMR chemical shifts for all protons of the ligands according to the X‐rays structures shows that the Fermi contact contribution is negligible in agreement with spin density determined by unrestricted DFT. The magnetic susceptibility tensor is determined by combining SQUID, pNMR shifts and Evans’ method. The SO‐RASPT2 results fit well the experimental magnetic susceptibility and pNMR chemical shifts. The role of the counterions in the solid phase is pointed out; their presence impacts the magnetic properties of the
complex. The temperature dependence of the pNMR chemical shifts has a strong
contribution, contrarily to Bleaney's theory for lanthanide complexes. The fitting of the temperature dependence of the pNMR chemical shifts and SQUID magnetic susceptibility by a two‐Kramers‐doublet model for the
complex and a non‐Kramers‐doublet model for the
complex allows for the experimental evaluation of energy gaps and magnetic moments of the paramagnetic center.
Chromogranin A‐positive hormone‐negative endocrine cells in pancreas in human pregnancy
Authors: Moin Abu Saleh Md , Zeng Kylie , Rizza Robert A. , Dhawan Sangeeta , Butler Alexandra E.
Published: January 2021

Introduction

We sought to determine whether chromogranin A‐positive hormone‐negative (CPHN) endocrine cells are increased in the pancreas of pregnant women, offering potential evidence in support of neogenesis.

Methods

Autopsy pancreata from pregnant women (n = 14) and age‐matched non‐pregnant control women (n = 9) were obtained. Staining of pancreatic sections for chromogranin A, insulin and a cocktail of glucagon, somatostatin, pancreatic polypeptide and ghrelin was undertaken, with subsequent evaluation for CPHN cell frequency.

Results

The frequency of clustered β‐cells was increased in pregnant compared to non‐pregnant subjects (46.6 ± 5.0 vs. 31.8 ± 5.0% clustered β‐cells of total clustered endocrine cells, pregnant vs. non‐pregnant, p < .05). Frequency of endocrine cocktail cells was lower in pregnant women than non‐pregnant women (36.2 ± 4.0 vs. 57.0 ± 6.8% clustered endocrine cocktail cells of total clustered endocrine cells, pregnant vs. non‐pregnant, p < .01). No difference in frequency of CPHN cells was found in islets, nor in clustered or single cells scattered throughout the exocrine pancreas, between pregnant and non‐pregnant women. The frequency of CPHN cells in pregnancy was independent of the number of pregnancies (gravidity).

Conclusions

Our findings of no increase in CPHN cell frequency in pancreas of pregnant women suggest that this potential β‐cell regenerative mechanism is not that by which the increased β‐cell mass of pregnancy is achieved. However, an increase in the percentage of clustered β‐cells was found in pregnancy, with decreased frequency of other endocrine cells in clusters, suggesting a compensatory shift from other pancreatic endocrine cell types to β‐cells as a mechanism to meet the increased insulin demands of pregnancy.
Design, synthesis and mode of action of novel 3‐chloro‐6‐pyrazolyl picolinate derivatives as herbicide candidates
Authors: Yang Zhikun , Li Qibo , Yin Jiaming , Liu Ruiquan , Tian Hao , Duan Liusheng , Li Zhaohu , Wang Baomin , Tan Weiming , Liu Shangzhong
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Picolinate/picolinic acid compounds are an important class of synthetic auxin herbicides. To explore the herbicidal activity of 6‐pyrazolyl picolinate compounds, a series of 3‐chloro‐6‐pyrazolyl‐picolinate derivatives was designed and synthesized.

RESULTS

Twenty‐five 3‐chloro‐6‐pyrazolyl‐picolinate derivatives synthesized were tested for herbicidal activity and the IC50 value of compound c5 to the growth of Arabidopsis thaliana root was 27 times lower than that of the commercial herbicide clopyralid. Compound c5 displayed better post‐emergence herbicidal activity and broader (Picloram, Clopyralid, Aminopyralid) herbicidal spectrum at a dosage of 400 g ha−1 in comparison with clopyralid; it also was safe to wheat and maize at this dosage. Arabidopsis thaliana phenotypes and expression of auxin‐response genes demonstrated that compound c5 might be a novel auxin‐type herbicide. Molecular docking analyses revealed that compound c5 had stronger binding ability to receptor AFB5 (auxin signaling F‐box protein 5) than clopyralid.

CONCLUSION

These 6‐pyrazolyl picolinate compounds could be used as potential lead structures for the discovery of a novel synthetic auxin herbicide. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Impact of Moisture Flux and Vertical Wind Shear on Forecasting Extreme Rainfall Events in Nigeria
Authors: Olaniyan Olumide A. , Ajayi Vincent O. , Lawal Kamoru A. , Akeh Ugbah Paul
Published: January 2021

This chapter investigates extreme rainfall events that caused flood during summer months of June–September 2010–2014. The aim is to determine the impact of horizontal moisture flux divergence (HMFD) and vertical wind shear on forecasting extreme rainfall events over Nigeria. Wind divergence and convective available potential energy (CAPE) were also examined to ascertain their threshold values during the events. The data used include rainfall observation from 40 synoptic stations across Nigeria, reanalyzed datasets from ECMWF at 0.125° × 0.125° resolution and the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) dataset at resolution of 0.25° × 0.25°. The ECMWF datasets for the selected days were employed to derive the moisture flux divergence, wind shear, and wind convergence. The derived meteorological parameters and the CAPE were spatially analyzed and superimposed on the precipitation obtained from the satellite data. The mean moisture flux and CAPE for some northern Nigerian stations were also plotted for 3 days prior to and 3 days after the storm. The result showed that HMFD and CAPE increased few days before the storm and peak on the day of the storms, and then declined afterwards. HMFD values above 1.0 × 10−6 g kg−1 s−1 is capable of producing substantial amount of rainfall mostly above 50 mm while wind shear has a much weaker impact on higher rainfall amount than moisture availability. CAPE above 1000 Jkg−1 and 1500 Jk−1 are favorable for convection over the southern and northern Nigeria, respectively. The study recommends quantitative analysis of moisture flux as a valuable short-term severe storm predictor and should be considered in the prediction of extreme rainfall.
Machine Learning in Citizen Science: Promises and Implications
Authors: Franzen Martina , Kloetzer Laure , Ponti Marisa , Trojan Jakub , Vicens Julián
Published: January 2021

The chapter gives an account of both opportunities and challenges of human–machine collaboration in citizen science. In the age of big data, scientists are facing the overwhelming task of analysing massive amounts of data, and machine learning techniques are becoming a possible solution. Human and artificial intelligence can be recombined in citizen science in numerous ways. For example, citizen scientists can be involved in training machine learning algorithms in such a way that they perform certain tasks such as image recognition. To illustrate the possible applications in different areas, we discuss example projects of human–machine cooperation with regard to their underlying concepts of learning. The use of machine learning techniques creates lots of opportunities, such as reducing the time of classification and scaling expert decision-making to large data sets. However, algorithms often remain black boxes and data biases are not visible at first glance. Addressing the lack of transparency both in terms of machine action and in handling user-generated data, the chapter discusses how machine learning is actually compatible with the idea of active citizenship and what conditions need to be met in order to move forward – both in citizen science and beyond.
Citizen Science, Health, and Environmental Justice
Authors: Ceccaroni Luigi , Woods Sasha M. , Sprinks James , Wilson Sacoby , Faustman Elaine M. , Bonn Aletta , Greshake Tzovaras Bastian , Subirats Laia , Kimura Aya H.
Published: January 2021

This chapter considers the interface of citizen science, health, and environmental justice. We review citizen science research undertaken by civic educators, scientists, and communities that aims to broaden scientific knowledge and encourage democratic engagement and, more specifically, to address complex problems related to public health and the environment. We provide a review of the current state of existing citizen science projects and examine how citizen science, health, and environmental justice impact each other, both positively and negatively. Specific challenges that relate to these projects are discussed, especially those that are not obvious or applicable to more traditional citizen science projects.
Citizen Science and Policy
Authors: Schade Sven , Pelacho Maite , van Noordwijk Toos , Vohland Katrin , Hecker Susanne , Manzoni Marina
Published: January 2021

Citizen science has manifold relationships to policy, which is understood as sets of ideas or plans for action followed by a government, business, political party, or group of people. In this chapter, we focus on the relationship between citizen science, government policies, and the related notions of politics and polity. We discuss two core areas of interaction between citizen science and policy. Firstly, government policies can support citizen science to flourish, for example, through legitimisation or funding. Secondly, citizen science can contribute to policymaking at various stages of the policy cycle, including policy preparation, formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. Since both of these perspectives are intertwined, the policy landscape related to citizen science is complex, and it is continuously evolving. This chapter disentangles some of the complexities, with a particular focus on the European landscape, its geographic diversity, and key players (stakeholders and beneficiaries). It presents a brief history and the current context and also includes recommendations for the future with respect to governance, policy impact, sustainability of citizen science initiatives, and the role of digital transformations. We showcase the pathways of leading examples but also highlight currently unanswered questions.
Communication and Dissemination in Citizen Science
Authors: Rüfenacht Simone , Woods Tim , Agnello Gaia , Gold Margaret , Hummer Philipp , Land-Zandstra Anne , Sieber Andrea
Published: January 2021

Citizen science projects rely on public involvement, making a communication and dissemination strategy essential to their success and impact. This needs to include many aspects, such as identifying the audience, selecting the communication channel(s), and establishing the right language to use. Importantly, citizen science projects must expand beyond traditional top-down monologue interactions and embrace two-way dialogue approaches, especially when communicating with project participants. Further, to be effective, communication activities require good planning and dedicated resources. This chapter highlights the importance of communication and dissemination in citizen science; provides examples of successful strategies and identifies the factors that determine success; and describes some of the challenges that can arise and how to overcome these.
The Evolution of Chatbots in Tourism: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Calvaresi Davide , Ibrahim Ahmed , Calbimonte Jean-Paul , Schegg Roland , Fragniere Emmanuel , Schumacher Michael
Published: January 2021

In the last decade, Information and Communication Technologies have revolutionized the tourism and hospitality sector. One of the latest innovations shaping new dynamics and fostering a remarkable behavioral change in the interaction between the service provider and the tourist is the employment of increasingly sophisticated chatbots. This work analyzes the most recent systems presented in the literature (since 2016) investigated via 12 research questions. The often appreciated quick evolution of such solutions is the primary outcome. However, such technological and financial fast-pace requires continuous investments, upskilling, and system innovation to tackle the eTourism challenges, which are shifting towards new dimensions.