bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of molecularly imprinted microspheres and development of a fluorescence method for detection of chloramphenicol in meat
Authors: Jia Bing Jie , Lin Min , Wang Jian Ping , Wu Ning Peng
Published: July 2021

In this study, nitrobenzene was used as dummy template to synthesize a type of specific molecularly imprinted microspheres for chloramphenicol, and 4‐nitroaniline was coupled with three fluorophores to synthesize three fluorescent tracers. Then a competitive fluorescence method was developed on a conventional microplate for detection of chloramphenicol in chicken and pork samples. This method contained only one sample‐loading step, so one assay was finished within 30 min. The IC50 was 1.8 ng/ml, and the limit of detection was 0.06 ng/g. The recoveries from chloramphenicol‐fortified blank meat samples were in the range 67.5–96.2%. Furthermore, this method could be recycled three times. The detection results for some real meat samples were identical to that of a LC–MS/MS method. Therefore, this method could be used as a practical tool for routine screening for the residue of chloramphenicol in large number of meat samples.
Exosomal microRNA‐1246 from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells potentiates myocardial angiogenesis in chronic heart failure
Authors: Wang Zicheng , Gao Da , Wang Shengjie , Lin Haiyan , Wang Yanwei , Xu Weifeng
Published: July 2021

microRNAs (miRNAs) are of importance to chronic heart failure (CHF). However, the relevance of the exosomal miRNAs produced during CHF remains unknown. Our purpose here was to examine the relevance of exosomal microRNA‐1246 (miR‐1246) released from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hucMSC) during CHF and the mechanism of action. Cardiac function, myocardial infarction area, apoptosis, and angiogenesis were all evaluated in a CHF rat model following treatment with hucMSC‐derived exosomes (hucMSC‐Exos). H9C2 and human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) were subjected to oxygen and glucose deprivation and exosome treatment to quantify the cell proliferation and apoptosis in H9C2 cells and the tube formation capacity of the HUVECs. A dual‐luciferase activity reporter assay was conducted to validate the interaction between miR‐1246 and serine protease 23 (PRSS23). HucMSCs treatment led to a reduction in H9C2 apoptosis and an increase in HUVEC angiogenesis, which were mitigated when hucMSCs were treated with a miR‐1246 inhibitor. We also confirmed that PRSS23 is a putative target of miR‐1246 and that miR‐1246 attenuated hypoxia‐induced myocardial tissue damage by targeting PRSS23 and inhibiting the activation of the Snail/alpha‐smooth muscle actin signaling. Our findings suggest that exosomal miR‐1246 from hucMSCs protects the heart from failure by targeting PRSS23.
Successful rotational atherectomies for calcified left main stenosis with distal aneurysms in the elderly
Authors: Silalahi Todung D. A. , Suwita Christopher S.
Published: July 2021

In complex calcified LM lesions, RA is an effective and safe alternative for resolving stenosis. As a plaque modifier, RA can allow an optimal stent deployment. Nevertheless, in limited availability of intravascular imaging, well‐preparedness against incidental angiography findings is mandatory. Distal aneurysm is not a contraindication provided that the team has the necessary experience.
Mechanistic Aspects of the Palladium‐Catalyzed Suzuki‐Miyaura Cross‐Coupling Reaction
Authors: D'Alterio Massimo C. , Casals‐Cruañas Èric , Tzouras Nikolaos V. , Talarico Giovanni , Nolan Steven P. , Poater Albert
Published: July 2021

The story of C−C bond formation includes several reactions, and surely Suzuki‐Miyaura is among the most outstanding ones. Herein, a brief historical overview of insights regarding the reaction mechanism is provided. In particular, the formation of the catalytically active species is probably the main concern, thus the preactivation is in competition with, or even assumes the role of the rate determining step (rds) of the overall reaction. Computational chemistry is key in identifying the rds and thus leading to milder conditions on an experimental level by means of predictive catalysis.
Solid‐State Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Techniques for the Structural Characterization of Geminal Alane‐Phosphane Frustrated Lewis Pairs and Secondary Adducts
Authors: Wübker Anna‐Lena , Koppe Jonas , Bradtmüller Henrik , Keweloh Lukas , Pleschka Damian , Uhl Werner , Hansen Michael Ryan , Eckert Hellmut
Published: July 2021

The first comprehensive solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) characterization of geminal alane‐phosphane frustrated Lewis pairs (Al/P FLPs) is reported. Their relevant NMR parameters (isotropic chemical shifts, direct and indirect 27Al‐31P spin‐spin coupling constants, and 27Al nuclear electric quadrupole coupling tensor components) have been determined by numerical analysis of the experimental NMR line shapes and compared with values computed from the known crystal structures by using density functional theory (DFT) methods. Our work demonstrates that the 31P NMR chemical shifts for the studied Al/P FLPs are very sensitive to slight structural inequivalences. The 27Al NMR central transition signals are spread out over a broad frequency range (>200 kHz), owing to the presence of strong nuclear electric quadrupolar interactions that can be well‐reproduced by the static 27Al wideband uniform rate smooth truncation (WURST) Carr‐Purcell‐Meiboom‐Gill (WCPMG) NMR experiment. 27Al chemical shifts and quadrupole tensor components offer a facile and clear distinction between three‐ and four‐coordinate aluminum environments. For measuring internuclear Al⋅⋅⋅P distances a new resonance‐echo saturation‐pulse double‐resonance (RESPDOR) experiment was developed by using efficient saturation via frequency‐swept WURST pulses. The successful implementation of this widely applicable technique indicates that internuclear Al⋅⋅⋅P distances in these compounds can be measured within a precision of ±0.1 Å.
Osteosarcoma Stem Cell Potent Gallium(III)‐Polypyridyl Complexes Bearing Diflunisal
Authors: Xiao Zhiyin , Passeri Ginevra , Northcote‐Smith Joshua , Singh Kuldip , Suntharalingam Kogularamanan
Published: July 2021

We report the anti‐osteosarcoma stem cell (OSC) properties of a series of gallium(III)‐polypyridyl complexes (5‐7) containing diflunisal, a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug. The most effective complex within the series, 6 (containing 3,4,7,8‐tetramethyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline), displayed similar potency towards bulk osteosarcoma cells and OSCs, in the nanomolar range. Remarkably, 6 exhibited significantly higher monolayer and sarcosphere OSC potency (up to three orders of magnitude) than clinically approved drugs used in frontline (cisplatin and doxorubicin) and secondary (etoposide, ifosfamide, and carboplatin) osteosarcoma treatments. Mechanistic studies show that 6 downregulates cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) and kills osteosarcoma cells in a COX‐2 dependent manner. Furthermore, 6 induces genomic DNA damage and caspase‐dependent apoptosis. To the best of our knowledge, 6 is the first metal complex to kill osteosarcoma cells by simultaneously inhibiting COX‐2 and damaging nuclear DNA.
Modelling and simulation of a photocatalytic reactor at high TiO2 concentrations
Authors: Cid Lucía del C. , Vera Claudia M. C. , Sorichetti Patricio A.
Published: July 2021

This work presents a model of an annular batch slurry photocatalytic reactor using titanium dioxide at high concentrations and pH close to 7. The model considers the effects of the agglomeration of catalyst particles that take place when the reactor operates close to neutral pH. It also includes the adsorption/desorption equilibrium of the contaminant on the catalyst during 1 h in darkness, followed by the photochemical reaction under UV irradiation. The reactor was modelled by a system of differential equations solved using the Micro‐Cap 12 program. This powerful software package numerically solves the differential equations as an equivalent network, providing a convenient graphical interface for model programming and plotting of results. The model was validated with measurements at several catalyst concentrations from 1–2.5 g/L. Aeroxide P25, supplied by Evonik, was used as catalyst, with UV irradiation at a wavelength of 254 nm. Orange II, a widely used azo dye, was chosen as the model contaminant. The model results were in satisfactory agreement with the experimental data. Simulations were carried out with different initial conditions, to analyze the influence of the system variables on the performance of the reactor. In this way, the optimal design criteria at high catalyst concentrations were found. The mathematical model is simple and robust and can be applied in a straightforward way to the design and scaling of photocatalytic reactors. It is also particularly attractive for educational purposes.
Sustainability game
Authors: Pedol Miriam , Biffi Elena , Melzi Simone
Published: July 2021

This paper describes a dynamic multistage game in which sustainability is a value that is shared between companies and stakeholders in a competitive market. The game solution could move from a Nash equilibrium to a higher equilibrium, the MES equilibrium, because of the presence of stakeholders who influence the choice and the set of sustainable strategies. Stakeholders provide feedback to companies (by way of awards, ratings, rankings, rebukes, etc.) at every stage of the game. Positive feedback gives a company the chance to expand its business opportunities, leveraging on good reputation, customer loyalty, operational risk mitigation, resilience, employees' cohesion, etc. The interaction between companies and stakeholders also allows companies to seize market opportunities (e.g., supplying sustainable products for responsible customers, sustainable investments for investors, etc.). The sustainability game demonstrates how sustainability can engage the economic system in a market shift.
Tracing Digital Divides in Indonesian Islam: Ambivalences of Media and Class
Authors: Slama Martin
Published: July 2021

The article examines questions of the digital divide from a religious perspective. It asks about the consequences of unequal access to and limitations on uses of social media among Indonesian Muslims with regard to their Islamic practice and sociality. The article concentrates on two phenomena: Islamic preachers and their affective‐cum‐economic relationship with their followers who are often organized in Islamic study groups; and online Qur'an reading groups that are frequently part of this Islamic preacher economy. Both examples point to the ambivalences that are present in Indonesia concerning economic inequality, social belonging, the uses of new media as well as the meaning of the term class as such. The article considers how these ambivalences are coming to the fore in the context of the introduction of new media and how class boundaries are renegotiated and reintroduced in Islamic online realms. From the discussion of the two examples and the ambivalences that become apparent through them, the article concludes that mediated religiosity that demands a strong presence on social media platforms is largely a middle‐class affair in Indonesia being articulated in ways that are partly reminiscent of offline class distinctions and their ambivalences.
Humor, Piety, and Masculinity: The Role of Digital Platforms in Aiding “Conversations” Between Islamic Preachers and Waria in Indonesia
Authors: Fadhlina Amirah
Published: July 2021

This article explores the influence of digital platforms in opening up ways for Islamic preachers in Indonesia to conduct dakwah and connect with their Muslim audience using distinct affective mechanisms, such as localized humor, pious activism, and display of Islamic knowledge–authority. Since 2016, influenced by online preachers who have earned a loyal following through YouTube, there has been a spike in national interest toward the Islamic discourse of immorality associated with the globalized LGBTQ liberation movement. In this article, I will investigate the role of digital dakwah in perpetuating a moral discourse against gender nonconforming expressions and reinforcing the popular discourse of embodying daily Islamic piety to preserve the morality of the Indonesian nation. I am specifically interested in examining the digital presence of Ustadz Abdul Somad and Ustadz Felix Siauw, two prominent Indonesian Islamic preachers, and their particular “interactions” and views toward waria communities in Indonesia. Using evidence from YouTube, I distinguish and illuminate three affective mechanisms used by Islamic preachers and waria to engage in the broader discourse of LGBTQ rights and gender nonconformity in Indonesia: carpool dakwah, humor, and religious authority.
Negotiating Salafism: Women Prayer Groups and their Preachers in Indonesia's Islamic Digital Mediascapes
Authors: Husein Fatimah
Published: July 2021

This article is concerned with Muslim women's negotiation of Salafism at the intersection of online and offline spaces. It focuses on two groups of Indonesian Muslim women who formed majelis taklim (study groups on Islam), namely Majelis Mutia (lit. Assembly of the Obedient) and Majelis Sahabat Cinta (lit. Assembly of the Friends of Love), to examine how these social media‐savvy women, who demand a more contextual interpretation of the Islamic foundational texts, negotiate Salafi teachings in order to bring them in accordance with their everyday lives. This article argues that online and offline encounters at these majelis have brought different negotiations. They have also created incongruencies, especially on the parts of Salafi preachers, as the latter have to adjust to the audience who are not used to pure Salafi discourse. These incongruencies provide opportunities for the members of the majelis taklim to practice a “softer version” of Salafism that, on occasion, seems to contradict those same Salafi teachings. Contrary to the general understanding that Muslim women are easy prey for Salafis, my research shows that the proliferation of preachers in the context of Indonesia's Islamic digital mediascapes have created a far more pluralized and optative religious forum.
Robustness of digital PCR and real‐time PCR against inhibitors in transgene detection for gene doping control in equestrian sports
Authors: Tozaki Teruaki , Ohnuma Aoi , Kikuchi Mio , Ishige Taichiro , Kakoi Hironaga , Hirota Kei‐ichi , Kusano Kanichi , Nagata Shun‐ichi
Published: July 2021

Gene doping is a threat to fair competition in sports, both human and equestrian. One method of gene doping is to administer exogenous genetic materials, called transgenes, into the bodies of postnatal humans and horses. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based transgene detection methods such as digital PCR and real‐time PCR have been developed for gene doping testing in humans and horses. However, the significance of PCR inhibitors in gene doping testing has not been well evaluated. In this study, we evaluated the effects of PCR inhibitors on transgene detection using digital PCR and real‐time PCR against gene doping. Digital PCR amplification was significantly inhibited by high concentrations of proteinase K (more than 0.1 μg/μl), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (more than 5 nmol/μl), and heparin (more than 0.05 unit/μl) but not by ethanol or genomic DNA. In addition, phenol affected droplet formation in the digital PCR amplification process. Real‐time PCR amplification was inhibited by high concentrations of phenol (more than 1% v/v), proteinase K (more than 0.001 μg/μl), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (more than 1 nmol/μl), heparin (more than 0.005 unit/μl), and genomic DNA (more than 51.9 ng/μl) but not by ethanol. Although both PCR systems were inhibited by nearly the same substances, digital PCR was more robust than real‐time PCR against the inhibitors. We believe that our findings are important for the development of better methods for transgene detection and prevention of false negative results in gene doping testing.
Consider teach‐out models for programs, institutions that close
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: July 2021

Officials at many colleges and universities have made difficult decisions about ending programs — or closing down altogether. And in all likelihood, more will face those decisions as demographics continue to change.
Stealth applications: Uncovering a new audience
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: July 2021

We're on their radar, but they're not on ours.
Late diagnoses of Dravet syndrome: How many individuals are we missing?
Authors: Silvennoinen Katri , Puvirajasinghe Clinda , Hudgell Kirsty , Sidhu Meneka K. , Martins Custodio Helena ,   Genomics England Research Consortium, Jones Wendy D. , Balestrini Simona , Sisodiya Sanjay M.
Published: July 2021

We report new genetic diagnoses of Dravet syndrome in a group of adults with complex epilepsy of unknown cause, under follow‐up at a tertiary epilepsy center. Individuals with epilepsy and other features of unknown cause from our unit underwent whole‐genome sequencing through the 100 000 Genomes Project. Virtual gene panels were applied to frequency‐filtered variants based on phenotype summary. Of 1078 individuals recruited, 8 (0.74%) were identified to have a pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant in SCN1A. Variant types were as follows: nonsense (stopgain) in five (62.5%) and missense in three (37.5%). Detailed review of childhood history confirmed a phenotype compatible with Dravet syndrome. Median age at genetic diagnosis was 44.5 years (range 28‐52 years). Tonic‐clonic seizures were ongoing in all despite polytherapy including valproate. All had a history of fever sensitivity and myoclonic seizures, which were ongoing in two (25%) and three (37.5%) individuals, respectively. Salient features of Dravet syndrome may be less apparent in adulthood, making clinical diagnosis difficult. Regardless of age, benefits of a genetic diagnosis include access to syndrome‐specific treatment options, avoidance of harmful drugs, and monitoring for common complications.
Occurrence and antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella isolated from retail meats in Anhui, China
Authors: Wang Wu , Chen Jing , Shao Xuefei , Huang Pan , Zha Jing , Ye Yingwang
Published: July 2021

Salmonella is considered one of the major foodborne pathogens associated with severe infections. Little attempt has been focused on the distribution of Salmonella in retail meats and the analysis of its phenotypic characteristics in Anhui Province. The aim of this study was to characterize the prevalence of Salmonella serovars, antimicrobial susceptibility, antimicrobial resistance genes, and virulence genes in Salmonella recovered from retail meats in Anhui, China. Out of the 120 samples collected from supermarket chains and open‐air markets, 16 samples (13.3%) were positive for Salmonella, of which Salmonella enterica serovars Enteritidis and Typhimurium were the common serotypes. Significant differences in incidence were found between supermarket chains and open‐air markets (p < 0.05). Overall, all 16 isolates were resistant to at least two tested antimicrobials, while 12 isolates showed multiple antimicrobial resistant phenotypes. High resistance was observed for ampicillin (87.5%), doxycycline (75.0%), and tetracycline (62.5%). The sul2 was detected in all isolates, and the aac(6′)‐Ib‐cr (93.8%) and the tetA (81.3%) were predominant in 10 resistance genes conferring five classes of antimicrobials. In addition, the correlation between resistance phenotypes and genes of tetracyclines and aminoglycosides was more than 80%. Interestingly, all the Salmonella isolates contained the genes mogA, mgtC, sopB, and spvB, whereas the siiE was variably represented. The findings in this study showed high prevalence, antimicrobial resistance, and the existence of virulence genes, suggesting that effective measures are required to ensure microbial safety from retail meats.
L‐citrulline inhibits body weight gain and hepatic fat accumulation by improving lipid metabolism in a rat nonalcoholic fatty liver disease model
Authors: Kudo Maya , Yamagishi Yoshie , Suguro Shiori , Nishihara Masaaki , Yoshitomi Hisae , Hayashi Misa , Gao Ming
Published: July 2021

Background

Body weight gain is a social issue all over the world. When body weight increased, hepatic fat accumulation also increased and it causes fatty liver disease. Therefore, developing a new treatment method and elucidating its mechanism is necessary. L‐citrulline (L‐Cit) is a free amino acid found mainly in watermelon. No reports regarding its effects on the improvement of hepatic steatosis and fibrogenesis are currently available. The aim of this study was to clarify the effect and the mechanism of L‐Cit on inhibition of body weight gain and hepatic fat accumulation in high‐fat and high‐cholesterol fed SHRSP5/Dmcr rats.

Methods

L‐Cit or water (controls) was administered to six‐week‐old male SHRSP5/Dmcr rats by gavage for nine weeks. We recorded the level of body weight and food intake while performing the administration and sacrificed rats. After that, the blood and lipid metabolism‐related organs and tissues were collected and analyzed.

Results

L‐Cit treatment reduced body weight gain and hepatic TC and TG levels, and serum levels of AST and ALT. L‐Cit enhanced AMPK, LKB1, PKA, and hormone‐sensitive lipase (HSL) protein phosphorylation levels in the epididymal fat. L‐Cit treatment improved steatosis as revealed by HE staining of liver tissues and enhanced AMPK and LKB1 phosphorylation levels. Moreover, activation of Sirt1 was higher, while the liver fatty acid synthase (FAS) level was lower. Azan staining of liver sections revealed a reduction in fibrogenesis following L‐Cit treatment. Further, the liver levels of TGF‐β, Smad2/3, and α‐SMA, fibrogenesis‐related proteins and genes, were lower in the L‐Cit‐treated group.

Conclusions

From the results of analysis of the epididymal fat and the liver, L‐Cit inhibits body weight gain and hepatic fat accumulation by activating lipid metabolism and promoting fatty acid β‐oxidation in SHRSP5/Dmcr rats.
Lives saved during economic downturns: Evidence from Australia
Authors: Atalay Kadir , Edwards Rebecca , Schurer Stefanie , Ubilava David
Published: July 2021

Worldwide, countries have been restricting work and social activities to counter the emerging public health crisis due to the coronavirus pandemic. These measures have caused dramatic increases in unemployment. Some commentators argue that the "draconian measures" will do more harm than good due to the economic contraction, despite a large literature that finds mortality rates decline during recessions. We estimate the relationship between unemployment, a proxy for economic climate, and mortality in Australia, a country with universal health care. Using administrative time‐series data on mortality by state, age, sex, and cause of death for 1979–2017, we find no relationship between unemployment and mortality on average. However, we observe beneficial health effects in economic downturns for young men, associated with a reduction in transport accidents. Our estimates imply 431 fewer deaths in 2020 if unemployment rates double as forecast. For the early 1980s, we find a procyclical pattern in infant mortality rates. However, this pattern disappears starting from the mid‐1980s, coincident with the 1984 implementation of universal health care. Our results suggest that universal health care may insulate individuals from the health effects of macroeconomic fluctuations.
Improvement of image quality of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma using noise‐optimized virtual monoenergetic image and nonlinear blending image algorithms in dual‐energy computed tomography
Authors: He Changjiu , Liu Jieke , Hu Shibei , Qing Haomiao , Luo Hongbing , Chen Xiaoli , Liu Ying , Zhou Peng
Published: July 2021

Background

Dual‐energy computed tomography (DECT) has been used to improve image quality of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). This study aimed to assess image quality of laryngeal SCC using linear blending image (LBI), nonlinear blending image (NBI), and noise‐optimized virtual monoenergetic image (VMI+) algorithms.

Methods

Thirty‐four patients with laryngeal SCC were retrospectively enrolled between June 2019 and December 2020. DECT images were reconstructed using LBI (80 kV and M_0.6), NBI, and VMI+ (40 and 55 keV) algorithms. Contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), tumor delineation, and overall image quality were assessed and compared.

Results

VMI+ (40 keV) had the highest CNR and provided better tumor delineation than VMI+ (55 keV), LBI, and NBI, while NBI provided better overall image quality than VMI+ and LBI (all corrected p < 0.05).

Conclusions

VMI+ (40 keV) and NBI improve image quality of laryngeal SCC and may be preferable in DECT examination.
The effects of genetic polymorphisms on benzene‐exposed workers: A systematic review
Authors: Ramírez‐Lopera Verónica , Uribe‐Castro Daniel , Bautista‐Amorocho Henry , Silva‐Sayago Jorge Alexander , Mateus‐Sánchez Enrique , Ardila‐Barbosa Wilman Yesid , Pérez‐Cala Tania Liseth
Published: July 2021

Background and Aims

Benzene is a group I carcinogen, which has been associated with leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome. Moreover, it has been proposed that polymorphisms in benzene metabolizing genes influence the outcomes of benzene exposure in the human body. This systematic review aims to elucidate the existent relationship between genetic polymorphisms and the risk of developing adverse health effects in benzene‐exposed workers.

Methods

Three databases were systematically searched until April 2020. The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses method was used to select articles published between 2005 and 2020. Quality assessment and risk of bias were evaluated by the Newcastle‐Ottawa scale.

Results

After full‐text evaluation, 36 articles remained out of 645 initially screened. The most studied health effects within the reviewed papers were chronic benzene poisoning, hematotoxicity, altered urinary biomarkers of exposure, micronucleus/chromosomal aberrations, and gene methylation. Furthermore, some polymorphisms on NQO1, GSTT1, GSTM1, MPO, and CYP2E1, among other genes, showed a statistically significant relationship with an increased risk of developing at least one of these effects on benzene‐exposed workers. However, there was no consensus among the reviewed papers on which specific polymorphisms were the ones associated with the adverse health‐related outcomes, except for the NQO1 rs1800566 and the GSTT1 null genotypes. Additionally, the smoking habit was identified as a confounder, demonstrating worse health outcomes in exposed workers that smoked.

Conclusion

Though there is a positive relationship between genetic polymorphisms and detrimental health outcomes for benzene‐exposed workers, broader benzene‐exposed cohorts that take into account the genetic diversity of the population are needed in order to determine which specific polymorphisms incur in health risks.
Reconstruction of conductivity distribution with a compound variational strategy in electrical impedance tomography
Authors: Shi Yanyan , Tian Zhiwei , Wang Meng , Rao Zuguang , Fu Feng
Published: July 2021

As a potential imaging technique, electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is advantageous for reconstructing conductivity distribution. However, due to insufficient measurement, visualization is inevitably an ill‐posed inverse problem. Moreover, reconstruction quality is affected by noise. To address these challenges, a novel variational model with an Lp‐norm as fidelity and a hybrid total variation as penalty (Lp‐HTV) is proposed for conductivity distribution reconstruction. Iterative reweighted L1 algorithm transforms the Lp‐norm to an L1‐norm and alternating direction method of multipliers is then utilized to solve objective function. Meanwhile, region of interest is defined to enhance robustness to noise and reduce staircase artifact. The performance of the proposed compound method is validated by several cases. Phantom experiments are also conducted. Compared with classic regularization methods, it is found that images reconstructed by the proposed method show large improvement. The results demonstrate that the proposed strategy is more competitive in visualizing conductivity distribution.
Capturing the voices of mothers: Delivery and content efficacy of a community attachment parenting program
Authors: Bonnett Tina H. , McCorquodale Lisa , Schouten Karen R.
Published: July 2021

This qualitative case study sought to examine the delivery and content efficacy of a community attachment parenting program developed and hosted by an attachment and trauma‐informed organization that services infants and their pre‐ or postnatal mothers in Ontario, Canada. A focus group and participant reflective journals were employed to amplify the voices of mothers who engaged in the 8‐week program. Five overarching themes surfaced in the data which include (1) infant/mother attachment, (2) program delivery validations and recommendations, (3) program content validations and recommendations, (4) facilitator delivery, content and relational competencies and (5) connections with others. The findings of this study are intended to inform future offerings of this program, as well as incite further research to illuminate the voices of mothers and other participants who engage in attachment‐postured community parenting programs across the globe.
Assessment of lime‐conditioned dairy manure fine solids captured using dissolved air flotation for fertilization in horticulture
Authors: Porterfield Katherine K. , VanOrnum Doug , Roy Eric D.
Published: July 2021

Dissolved air flotation (DAF) has shown potential to substantially improve phosphorus (P) mass balance on dairy farms by capturing P associated with fine solids from liquid manure, enabling new management options. However, at <25% total solids, further dewatering is necessary to facilitate export of recovered fine solids off farm for use in bagged or bulk products. Physical conditioners such as quicklime (QL) and lime kiln dust (LKD) are commonly used to enhance mechanical dewatering of biosolids, but their effect on the properties and fertilization value of DAF‐captured manure fine solids has not been documented. We generated plant foods using DAF‐captured dairy manure fine solids conditioned with 3, 4.5, and 6% m/m QL or LKD and dewatered using a benchtop press for comparison with thermally dried fine solids. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicumL.) seedlings were grown in a soilless substrate amended with 6% v/v plant food and in an unamended control. Thermally dried and LKD plant foods produced significantly greater seedling biomass than QL plant foods and the unamended control. Quicklime‐ and LKD‐conditioned fine solids contained approximately 30× and 10× less water‐extractable P than thermally dried fine solids, respectively, likely due to precipitation of Ca‐P minerals. The elevated pH (≥10) of the lime‐conditioned fine solids could have also suppressed plant growth. These effects limit horticultural applications but could be beneficial in agricultural field settings where slow‐release P is desirable. Research beyond this preliminary assessment is needed to determine the practicality and sustainability of the approach along with longer‐term nutrient bioavailability.
An Early Example of International Oceanography: The Last Voyage of the Carnegie (1928–1929)
Authors: Dolan John R.
Published: July 2021

The Carnegie was a very unusual ship, a nonmagnetic 44‐m brigantine schooner designed to conduct surveys of terrestrial magnetism. From 1909 to 1922, in 6 cruises, it navigated a total of 466,000 km and was then kept in storage in its homeport of Washington, D.C., from 1922 until 1927, when the vessel was overhauled and refitted for Cruise VII, a 3‐year global cruise dedicated both to magnetism and also explicitly to oceanography. Cruise VII of the Carnegie ended prematurely and abruptly in November 1929 with an explosion during a refueling operation in Apia in the South Pacific. Famous for its tragic ending, little known today is that the cruise was one of close international collaborations and visits. A number of European organizations were involved from the early planning stages, and in equipping the ship. The cruise also included a visit to Japanese oceanographers. For the United States, Cruise VII of the Carnegie was quite possibly the first large‐scale oceanographic campaign that relied on international collaboration, and the last until well after World War II. However, shown here is that oceanographers in the United States and elsewhere have long known that oceanography is an international affair.
Efficient CO2 Separation Using a PIM‐PI‐Functionalized UiO‐66 MOF Incorporated Mixed Matrix Membrane in a PIM‐PI‐1 Polymer
Authors: Husna Asmaul , Hossain Iqubal , Choi Ook , Lee Sang Moon , Kim Tae‐Hyun
Published: July 2021

Metal–organic framework (MOF) incorporated mixed–matrix membranes (MMMs) attract great interest for gas separation applications because they overcome limitations faced by typical polymer membranes, including permeability–selectivity trade‐off, aging effect, and plasticization phenomenon. However, optimal MOF–polymer interface compatibility is the key challenge in fabricating defect‐free high‐performance gas‐separation MMMs. Here, a surface modification strategy of the UiO‐66‐NH2 MOF using a covalently bound PIM‐PI‐oligomer is developed to engineer interface compatibility with the polymer that has an identical chemical structure (PIM‐PI‐1) in the MMMs. A series of MMMs are prepared with different loadings of homogeneously distributed PIM‐PI‐functionalized MOFs (PPM). Significant improvements in CO2/N2 and CO2/CH4 selectivity and permeability are achieved with these MMMs, ranging from 5 to 10 wt% of the PPM loadings. The MMM with 10 wt% loading (PPM‐10@MMM) shows a CO2 permeability of 3827.3 Barrer and a CO2/N2 and CO2/CH4 selectivity of 24 and 13.4, respectively. This surpasses the 2008 Robeson upper bound for CO2/N2 and is very close to the 2008 upper bound for CO2/CH4. The experimental results are further compared using Maxwell's equation for MMMs. The resulting MMMs show a plasticization resistance against CO2 up to 25 atm pressure and anti‐aging performance for 180 h.
The Time Draws Nigh for Employers to be Prepared
Authors: Wich Scott
Published: July 2021

For the past several months, Management Report has been alerting readers to a coming change in the ability of unions to organize employees. The prompt removal of the General Counsel at the start of the Biden administration together with the prompt withdrawal of several General Counsel memoranda issued during the Trump administration were warning bells. The bells have further resonated from certain comments and opinions that have been issued by Lauren McFerran, the current NLRB chairman and only current union‐side appointee on the labor board.
Optimizing process parameters for joint strength efficiency improvement in friction stir welding of polycarbonate sheets
Authors: Sahu S.K. , Mishra D. , Pal K.
Published: July 2021

The present work addresses optimization of these friction stir welding process variables to maximize joint strength efficiency of welded polycarbonate sheets by using particle swarm optimization algorithm over response surface method based regression model. Initially, parametric influence on weld quality characteristics namely weld bead profile, bead geometry with associated microstructure along with micro‐hardness deviation through the weld centerline and stress‐strain behavior of the weld have been studied in detail as per full factorial design of experiments by using three different tool pin profiles such as cylindrical, square and triangular. The center point experiment i. e. tool rotational speed of 1800 min−1 and welding speed of 20 mm/min, and square tool pin profile were found to be the optimum combination with a maximum joint strength efficiency of 60.06 %. The regression model of weld ultimate tensile strength was developed by using response surface methodology which was found to be significant. Therefore, this model was further used for parametric optimization by using both response surface methodology and intelligent particle swarm optimization approaches. A slight improvement in joint strength efficiency with better optimization capability was found by using particle swarm optimization technique as compared to response surface methodology.
Prevalence and clinical/molecular characteristics of PTEN mutations in Turkish children with autism spectrum disorders and macrocephaly
Authors: Kaymakcalan Hande , Kaya İlyas , Cevher Binici Nagihan , Nikerel Emrah , Özbaran Burcu , Görkem Aksoy Mehmet , Erbilgin Seda , Özyurt Gonca , Jahan Noor , Çelik Didem , Yararbaş Kanay , Yalçınkaya Leyla , Köse Sezen , Durak Sibel , Ercan‐Sencicek Adife Gulhan
Published: July 2021

Background

Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) germline mutations are associated with cancer syndromes (PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome; PHTS) and in pediatric patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and macrocephaly. The exact prevalence of PTEN mutations in patients with ASD and macrocephaly is uncertain; with prevalence rates ranging from 1% to 17%. Most studies are retrospective and contain more adult than pediatric patients, there is a need for more prospective pediatric studies.

Methods

We recruited 131 patients (108 males, 23 females) with ASD and macrocephaly between the ages of 3 and 18 from five child and adolescent psychiatry clinics in Turkey from July 2018 to December 2019. We defined macrocephaly as occipito‐frontal HC size at or greater than 2 standard deviations (SD) above the mean for age and sex on standard growth charts. PTEN gene sequence analysis was performed using a MiSeq next generation sequencing (NGS) platform, (Illumina).

Conclusion

PTEN gene sequence analyses identified three pathogenic/likely pathogenic mutations [NM_000314.6; p.(Pro204Leu), (p.Arg233*) and novel (p.Tyr176Cys*8)] and two variants of uncertain significance (VUS) [NM_000314.6; p.(Ala79Thr) and c.*10del]. We also report that patient with (p.Tyr176Cys*8) mutation has Grade 1 hepatosteatosis, a phenotype not previously described. This is the first PTEN prevalence study of patients with ASD and macrocephaly in Turkey and South Eastern Europe region with a largest homogenous cohort. The prevalence of PTEN mutations was found 3.8% (VUS included) or 2.29% (VUS omitted). We recommend testing for PTEN mutations in all patients with ASD and macrocephaly.
Delays, inefficient licensing process impacting New Jersey social workers
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: July 2021

Although New Jersey providers of mental health services are working to support community members through telehealth and some return to in‐person services, there is a dearth of licensed social workers and licensed clinical workers to meet the demands across the state. Fueling the problem are delays, lack of communication and unclear processes regarding licensure, according to the National Association of Social Workers in New Jersey (NASW‐NJ), which says the long delays are causing a mental health crisis.
UK staff insight on older adult MH care amid COVID‐19 explored
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: July 2021

Lack of access to physical and social care and reduced contact with friends and families represent big challenges for patients, according to a new study examining the impact of COVID‐19 on older staff from the perspective of mental health staff in the United Kingdom. The study was published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.
Dual‐polarized frequency selective rasorber with dual absorption bands
Authors: Yin Liyuan , Zhang Binchao , Xue Zhenghui , Lv Qihao , Jin Cheng , Mittra Raj
Published: July 2021

A dual‐polarized three‐dimensional absorptive frequency selective transmission (AFST) structure consisting of bent metallic strips embedded with chip‐resistors, and a parallel plate waveguide has been introduced. The structure exhibits two wide absorption bands which flank both sides of the passband, and each absorption band contains two reflection zeros contributing to the wideband performance. An equivalent circuit model is derived to investigate the design concept. A prototype is fabricated and measured, and good agreement between the simulated and experimental results is obtained. In addition, the AFST shows a stable response even for oblique angles and for both TE‐ and TM‐polarizations.
Stealth design of polarization conversion metasurface antenna array
Authors: Chen Yan , Xu Chenyue , He Xiaoxiang , Yang Yang , Hu Hengyan , Li Fukang
Published: July 2021

In this letter, a polarization conversion metasurface antenna (PCMA) array for stealth design method is proposed. The array is composed of polarization conversion metasurface (PCM) subarray and their mirror subarray, which simultaneously plays the role of antenna element and PCM. So that, a certain phase cancellation can be produced between subarray and mirror one. The backward scattering is canceled while the radiation performance is maintained. This method has the characteristics of simplicity, low profile and easy to be implemented. Average area occupied by each antenna element can be reduced to 0.15 . Simulation and measured results show that the maximum reduction of monostatic RCS of aforementioned PCMA is 16.3 dB in 8.2–13.6 GHz band, and the relative bandwidth of effective RCS reduction (more than 10 dB) reaches 34%, which verifies the effectiveness of the polarization cancellation design method based on the integration of array elements and PCM.
In vivo macromolecule signals in rat brain 1H‐MR spectra at 9.4T: Parametrization, spline baseline estimation, and T2 relaxation times
Authors: Simicic Dunja , Rackayova Veronika , Xin Lijing , Tkáč Ivan , Borbath Tamas , Starcuk Zenon , Starcukova Jana , Lanz Bernard , Cudalbu Cristina
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Reliable detection and fitting of macromolecules (MM) are crucial for accurate quantification of brain short‐echo time (TE) 1H‐MR spectra. An experimentally acquired single MM spectrum is commonly used. Higher spectral resolution at ultra‐high field (UHF) led to increased interest in using a parametrized MM spectrum together with flexible spline baselines to address unpredicted spectroscopic components. Herein, we aimed to: (1) implement an advanced methodological approach for post‐processing, fitting, and parametrization of 9.4T rat brain MM spectra; (2) assess the concomitant impact of the LCModel baseline and MM model (ie, single vs parametrized); and (3) estimate the apparent T2 relaxation times for seven MM components.

Methods

A single inversion recovery sequence combined with advanced AMARES prior knowledge was used to eliminate the metabolite residuals, fit, and parametrize 10 MM components directly from 9.4T rat brain in vivo 1H‐MR spectra at different TEs. Monte Carlo simulations were also used to assess the concomitant influence of parametrized MM and DKNTMN parameter in LCModel.

Results

A very stiff baseline (DKNTMN ≥ 1 ppm) in combination with a single MM spectrum led to deviations in metabolite concentrations. For some metabolites the parametrized MM showed deviations from the ground truth for all DKNTMN values. Adding prior knowledge on parametrized MM improved MM and metabolite quantification. The apparent T2 ranged between 12 and 24 ms for seven MM peaks.

Conclusion

Moderate flexibility in the spline baseline was required for reliable quantification of real/experimental spectra based on in vivo and Monte Carlo data. Prior knowledge on parametrized MM improved MM and metabolite quantification.
NeoCHIRP: A model for intestinal rehabilitation in the neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Casey Linda M. , Strauss Jaclyn , Dhaliwal Keerat K. , Butterworth Sonia , Piper Hannah G. , Albersheim Susan G.
Published: July 2021

Multidisciplinary intestinal rehabilitation (IR) teams have transformed care in pediatric intestinal failure (IF).1 Although most children with IF are identified in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), IR teams may not be involved at this stage. We describe our collaborative model, blending NICU and IR expertise to optimize care. Over 6 years, the NeoCHIRP (Neonatal Children's IR Program) team followed 164 babies for weekly visits (median, 8; range, 1–27). Bedside rounds included CHIRP team physician and surgeons, neonatologist champion, attending neonatologist and fellow, NICU dietitian, bedside nurse, and family. Medical and nutrition status, nutrition history, and laboratory data were discussed, and a nutrition plan to support IR, considering the child's other medical needs, was created to guide the next week's management. Typical issues addressed included parenteral nutrition (PN) composition, enteral nutrition plan, oral feeding, management of small‐intestinal bacterial overgrowth and sodium status, and cholestasis. A total of 164 babies were followed by the NeoCHIRP team. Of 153 survivors, IF resolved by discharge in 89% (136 of 153). Seventeen of 153 babies (11%) went on to require home PN and were transferred from NICU directly to the CHIRP team. By discharge, 99% of babies were orally fed (69/136, 50% fully, 67/136, 49% partially), and cholestasis improved or resolved in 80/105 (76%). Eleven babies (7%) died; four deaths were unrelated to IF, but in seven babies, IF was at least a contributing factor. In this high‐risk cohort, most babies achieved good outcomes, and those who required longer‐term IR transitioned smoothly to the CHIRP team.
Synthesis, electrical, and dielectric properties of novel polyaniline/strontium di‐nitrate composites
Authors: Ashwini Indavara S. , Pattar Jayadev , Sreekanth Rajagopalachar , Nagaraja Madihally , Manohara Shambonahalli Rajanna , Anjaneyulu Ponnam
Published: July 2021

Polyaniline (PANI) and polyaniline/strontium di‐nitrate [Sr(NO3)2] composites were synthesized by in‐situ chemical oxidative polymerization. The composites with different weight percentages of Sr(NO3)2 were synthesized for the study of the charge transport mechanism. Interaction between Sr(NO3)2 and the PANI was confirmed from the observed peak shift to a lower wavelength in the FTIR spectra. DC conductivity of composites decreased with an increase in the concentrations of Sr(NO3)2. The exponent values, 0.64 < s < 0.75, calculated from Jonscher universal power‐law using AC conductivity forecasts the hopping conduction mechanism. The complex impedance studies showed two semicircles in the Nyquist plot and simulated to an equivalent circuit by constant‐phase element (CPE). The relaxation time for pristine PANI was 2.28 μs, whereas a higher relaxation time of 18.5 μs was observed with 40 wt% Sr(NO3)2, doped composite. The values of dielectric constant, and dielectric loss decreased with increasing frequency and increasing Sr(NO3)2 wt%. Therefore, the results obtained for Sr(NO3)2 doped PANI composites are of scientific and technological interest.
Thermo‐adjusted self‐healing epoxy resins based on Diels–Alder dynamic chemical reaction
Authors: Zhang Yunpeng , Ye Jiaofeng , Qu Dongan , Wang Haitao , Chai Changsheng , Feng Libang
Published: July 2021

Micro‐damage in materials could be repaired by endowing materials with self‐healing performance. Herein, an epoxy resin with excellent self‐healing performance grounded on thermo‐reversible Diels–Alder dynamic chemical reaction was developed. Results showed that the bending strength and adhesive behavior of epoxy resin were influenced dramatically upon treatment with various temperatures. More importantly, damages created in epoxy resin could be repaired completely after suitable heat treatments. What is more, the healed epoxy resin exhibited much higher bending strength and adhesive performance than the pristine one did. The materials could be damaged and then repaired repeatedly. Meanwhile, the as‐prepared self‐healing epoxy resin exhibited excellent thermal reversibility and controllable adhesion. The thermo‐adjusted self‐healing performance endowed epoxy resin with recyclable and reusable performance. Therefore, the research made it possible of recycling waste epoxy resins.