bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Dark Side of High-Fliers: The Dark Triad, High-Flier Traits, Engagement, and Subjective Success
Authors: Furnham Adrian , Treglown Luke
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to understand the relationship between bright-side, High Potential and dark-side Dark Triad traits, as well as work engagement on judgements of perceived success. In all, 290 working adults completed questionnaires assessing their High Potential Personality Traits (HPTI), their dark-triad traits, job engagement and self-rated success at work. The data showed that the three dark-triad traits (Narcissism, Psychopathy, Machiavellianism) were systematically and significantly correlated with High Potential traits Adjustment/neuroticism, Tolerance of Ambiguity and Conscientiousness. Three HPTI traits, namely curiosity, Conscientiousness, and courage, were systematically positively correlated with all three engagement measures. Narcissism was strongly related to all measures of engagement. Those with higher scores Adjustment, Courage, and Narcissism and of the male sex, rated their success highest. Job engagement mediated between high-flier and dark-side traits and success ratings. Implications and limitations are discussed.
Satisfaction and Quality of Life of Families Participating in Two Different Early Intervention Models in the Same Context: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Verger Sebastià , Riquelme Inmaculada , Bagur Sara , Paz-Lourido Berta
Published: April 2021

Early intervention is developed following different types of service organization, which in turn require different professional and family roles. The aim of this study was to compare the perceived satisfaction and family quality of life amongst families receiving early intervention developed at centers in comparison to those receiving the routines-based early intervention in families’ homes, that is a family centered intervention in ecological environments. Under a transformative paradigm, a mixed methods design was used, using the Consumer Report Effectiveness Scale (CRES-4) and the Beach Center Family Quality of Life Scale (FQOLS) and two focus groups as data collection instruments. The sample comprised 166 parents in the quantitative phase and 16 parents in the qualitative phase. Results showed that families receiving routines-based early intervention had greater satisfaction with the service although both groups showed similar scores for family quality of life in most of the analyzed domains. Three dimensions were identified throughout the qualitative phase: problem solving, professional team and service organization. Both the models analyzed have an impact on family quality of life and parents are in general satisfied. Strengths and weaknesses were found related to the problem-solving process, the role of the professional team, family empowerment and the service’s organization. The areas requiring further development are the effective training of professionals focused on family practices, the exchange of information with the family and a more participatory organization that takes parent’s perspectives into consideration. The value given to a combined model is another aspect highlighted in this study, as well as the need for a more agile assessment period to avoid unnecessary delays.
Regional Distribution of Causes of Death for Small Areas in Brazil, 1998–2017
Authors: Baptista Emerson Augusto , Queiroz Bernardo Lanza , Pinheiro Pedro Cisalpino
Published: April 2021

Background: What is the spatial pattern of mortality by cause and sex in Brazil? Even considering the main causes of death, such as neoplasms, cardiovascular diseases, external causes, respiratory diseases, and infectious diseases, there are still important debate regarding the spatial pattern of mortality by causes in Brazil. Evidence shows that there is an overlap in transitional health states, due to the persistence of infectious diseases (e.g., dengue, cholera, malaria, etc.,) in parallel with the increase in chronic degenerative diseases. The main objective of this paper is to analyze the spatio-temporal evolution of three groups of causes of death in Brazil across small areas from 1998 to 2017, by sex.

Methods: We use publicly available data from the System Data Mortality Information (SIM-DATASUS) from 1998 to 2017. We focus on this period due to the better quality of information, in addition to all deaths are registered following the Tenth Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). We estimate standardized mortality rates by sex and cause aggregated into three main groups. We use a ternary color scheme to maximize all the information in a three-dimensional array of compositional data.

Results: We find improvements in mortality from chronic degenerative diseases; faster declines are observed in the Southern regions of the country; but the persistence of high levels of mortality due to infectious diseases remained in the northern parts of the country. We also find impressive differences in external causes of deaths between males and females and an increase in mortality from these causes in the interior part of the country.

Conclusions: This study provides useful information for policy makers in establishing effective measures for the prevention of deaths and public health planning for deaths from external and non-communicable causes. We observed how the distribution of causes of death varies across regions and how the patterns of mortality also vary by gender.
Time Pressure and Health-Related Loss of Productivity in University Students: The Mediating Role of Exhaustion
Authors: Gusy Burkhard , Lesener Tino , Wolter Christine
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Being present at work when sick is not just prevalent in employees. Since university is also a demanding context, there is a growing interest in this phenomenon in university students. Especially students with mental health issues show a higher degree of productivity loss. However, little research has examined the causes of these productivity losses—especially in university students. Therefore, we examined health-related (burnout) and non-health-related (time pressure) aspects that lead to productivity losses in the long run.

Methods: We decided to examine the effect from time pressure on health-related loss of productivity, mediated by exhaustion. This assumption is in line with the health impairment process proposed by the Study Demands-Resources (SD-R) framework. To examine this assumption properly, we conducted a longitudinal study with three occasions. We surveyed 392 students in three waves over 1 year and performed structural equation modeling (SEM) to confirm the assumptions longitudinally.

Results: In line with our assumptions, time pressure predicted burnout which, in turn, predicted health-related loss of productivity in the long run. Hence—as assumed by the SD-R framework—burnout serves as a mediator between study demands and negative outcomes such as loss of productivity.

Discussion: Our study is the first that uncovers health-related and non-health-related causes of health-related productivity loss in university students. Thus, we were able to confirm SD-R's health impairment process longitudinally. Since we know that time pressure serves as a major antecedent for burnout and health-related loss of productivity, we are well-advised to establish appropriate interventions to reduce students' time pressure.
Evidence-Based Caries Management for All Ages-Practical Guidelines
Authors: Featherstone John D. B. , Crystal Yasmi O. , Alston Pamela , Chaffee Benjamin W. , Doméjean Sophie , Rechmann Peter , Zhan Ling , Ramos-Gomez Francisco
Published: April 2021

Introduction: The purpose of the present paper is to provide step-by-step guidelines for dental healthcare providers to manage dental caries based upon caries risk assessment (CRA) for ages 0–6 years and 6 years through adult. The manuscript reviews and updates the CAMBRA (caries management by risk assessment) system which includes CRA and caries management recommendations that are guided by the assessed risk level.

Caries Risk Assessment: CAMBRA CRA tools (CRAs) have been evaluated in several clinical outcomes studies and clinical trials. Updated CAMBRA CRAs for ages 0–6 years and 6 years through adult are provided. These CRAs have been refined by the addition of a quantitative method that will aid the health care provider in determining the caries risk of individuals.

Caries Management Based Upon Risk Assessment: Guidelines for individualized patient care are provided based upon the caries risk status, results of clinical exams and responses of the patient to questions in the CRA. These guidelines are based upon successful outcomes documented in several clinical outcomes studies and clinical trials. The paper includes a review of successful caries management procedures for children and adults as previously published, with additional emphasis on correct use of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) for children. The caries management plan for each individual is based upon reducing the caries risk factors and enhancing the protective factors with the additional aid of behavior modification. Beneficially altering the caries balance is coupled with minimal intervention restorative dentistry, if appropriate. These methods are appropriate for the management of dental caries in all patients.
Comparison of Submillinewton Thrust Measurements Between a Laser Interferometer and a Load Cell on a Pendulum Balance
Authors: Tsifakis Dimitrios , Charles Christine , Boswell Rod
Published: April 2021

Reliable measurements of thrust from systems to be flown on satellites are essential to ensure repeatable maneuvering capability of small nanosatellites. Thrusters can be used to vary spacecraft orientation, detumbling, and orbit change. Tests have been conducted in a low-pressure vacuum system using a cold gas prototype thruster and two independently calibrated methods: a four-point pendulum with a laser interferometer displacement sensor and a load cell, both of which have measurement capabilities from tens of micronewtons to tens of millinewtons. The agreement is very good, lending confidence in both methods. The advantages and disadvantages of both methods will be discussed. They include absolute accuracy, low thrust accuracy, temporal resolution, simplicity of operation, cost, and sensitivity to vibrations generated by laboratory equipment such as pumps, fans, bumps, and human movement.
TechnoBrainBodies-in-Cultures: An Intersectional Case
Authors: Schmitz Sigrid
Published: April 2021

The cyborgization of brainbodies with computer hardware and software today ranges in scope from the realization of Brain–Computer Interfaces (BCIs) to visions of mind upload to silicon, the latter being targeted toward a transhuman future. Refining posthumanist concepts to formulate a posthumanitiesperspective, and contrasting those approaches with transhumanist trajectories, I explore the intersectional dimension of realizations and visions of neuro-technological developments, which I name TechnoBrainBodies-in-Cultures. In an intersectional analysis, I investigate the embedding and legitimation of transhumanist visions brought about by neuroscientific research and neuro-technological development based on a concept of modern neurobiological determinism. The conjoined trajectories of BCI research and development and transhumanist visions perpetuate the inscription of intersectional norms, with the concomitant danger of producing discriminatory effects. This culminates in normative capacity being seen as a conflation of the abled, successful, white masculinized techno-brain with competition. My deeper analysis, however, also enables displacements within recent BCI research and development to be characterized: from ‘‘thought-translation” to affective conditioning and from controllability to obstinacy within the BCI, going so far as to open the closed loop. These realizations challenge notions about the BCI's actor status and agency and foster questions about shifts in the corresponding subject–object relations. Based on these analyses, I look at the effects of neuro-technological and transhumanist governmentality on the question of whose lives are to be improved and whose lives should be excluded from these developments. Within the framework of political feminist materialisms, I combine the concept of posthumanitieswith my concept of TechnoBrainBodies-in-Cultures to envision and discuss a material-discursive strategy, encompassing dimensions of affect, sociality, resistance, compassion, cultural diversity, ethnic diversity, multiple sexes/sexualities, aging, dis/abilities—in short, all of this “intersectional stuff”—as well as obstinate techno-brain agencies and contumacies foreseen in these cyborgian futures.
Phytophthora palmivora Causing Disease on Theobroma cacao in Hawaii
Authors: Puig Alina Sandra , Quintanilla Wilber , Matsumoto Tracie , Keith Lisa , Gutierrez Osman Ariel , Marelli Jean-Philippe
Published: April 2021

Commercial production of cacao in Hawaii has doubled in the past 10 years, and farmers are receiving premium prices for their beans from the expanding local confectionery industry. Black pod, caused by Phytophthora spp., is the only major cacao disease that has been reported in Hawaii but distribution and molecular identification are lacking. To determine the species of Phytophthora affecting Theobroma cacao, a sampling trip was conducted on Hawaii Island and Oahu. Ten isolates of Phytophthora palmivora were obtained from diseased cacao on Hawaii Island, but none from Oahu, despite the presence of symptomatic pods. No other Phytophthora species were found. Laboratory studies showed that all isolates produced lesions on unwounded cacao pods, but they differed in terms of their temperature–growth responses. Fungicide sensitives for a subset of isolates (n = 4) were determined using media amended with a range of fungicide concentrations. The Hawaiian isolates of P. palmivora were more sensitive to mefenoxam, chlorothalonil, and fosetyl-Al, than isolates from Ghana (n = 2) and Mexico (n = 1). This study identifies P. palmivora as a causal agent of black pod in Hawaii based on molecular data and provides valuable preliminary information on fungicide resistance and temperature response that can be used to improve disease management.
Rice Breeding in Vietnam: Retrospects, Challenges and Prospects
Authors: Khanh Tran Dang , Duong Vu Xuan , Nguyen Phi Cong , Xuan Tran Dang , Trung Nguyen Thanh , Trung Khuat Huu , Gioi Dong Huy , Hoang Nguyen Huy , Tran Hoang-Dung , Trung Do Minh , Huong Bui Thi Thu
Published: April 2021

Rice breeding was conducted for a long time during historical times and is an important job in Vietnam because rice is the major food for domestic consumption and export. In this review, we have provided a comprehensive insight into the importance of promising rice germplasm resources, breeding achievements, and breeding approaches as well as discussed challenges and perspectives of rice breeding in this country. With rice germplasm and wild rice relative resources with rich and various genetic diversity, their useful genes and traits have been exploited and integrated into commercial varieties as the final outputs of rice breeding programs. New achievements of the modern genetics era have been approached and effectively contributed to breeding activities in this country. Genome sequences, molecular breeding, and mutation are powerful tools and playing vital roles in developing new varieties with characteristics of interest that should be followed by the current market demands. In the last decades, there has been a plethora of newly generated varieties by Vietnamese scientists and rice breeders and approved by the state authorities. However, very few domestic mega varieties have prevailed over the imported varieties. Therefore, rice breeding in this country is faced with big challenges, including limitations of backgrounds, budgets, and even talents in basic research to compete with other rice-producing countries. The target goals and long-term approaches for rice breeding should be paid explicitly in priority to ensure national food security and the advantage and development of rice breeding in this country.
Immunohistological Evaluation of Von Willebrand Factor in the Left Atrial Endocardium and Atrial Thrombi from Cats with Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Cheng Wan-Ching , Wilkie Lois , Kurosawa Tsumugi Anne , Dobromylskyj Melanie , Priestnall Simon Lawrence , Luis Fuentes Virginia , Connolly David J.
Published: April 2021

Aortic thromboembolism (ATE) occurs in cats with cardiomyopathy and often results in euthanasia due to poor prognosis. However, the underlying predisposing mechanisms leading to left atrial (LA) thrombus formation are not fully characterised. von Willebrand Factor (vWF) is a marker of endothelium and shows increased expression following endothelial injury. In people with poor LA function and LA remodelling, vWF has been implicated in the development of LA thrombosis. In this study we have shown (1) the expression of endocardial vWF protein detected using immunohistofluorescence was elevated in cats with cardiomyopathy, LA enlargement (LAE) and clinical signs compared to cats with subclinical cardiomyopathy and control cats; (2) vWF was present at the periphery of microthrombi and macrothrombi within the LA where they come into contact with the LA endocardium and (3) vWF was integral to the structure of the macrothrombi retrieved from the atria. These results provide evidence for damage of the endocardial endothelium in the remodelled LA and support a role for endocardial vWF as a pro-thrombotic substrate potentially contributing to the development of ATE in cats with underlying cardiomyopathy and LAE. Results from this naturally occurring feline model may inform research into human thrombogenesis.
Association between Anti-Müllerian Hormone Concentration and Inflammation Markers in Serum during the Peripartum Period in Dairy Cows
Authors: Okawa Hiroaki , Monniaux Danielle , Mizokami Chihiro , Fujikura Atsushi , Takano Toshihiro , Sato Satoko , Shinya Urara , Kawashima Chiho , Yamato Osamu , Fushimi Yasuo , Vos Peter L. A. M. , Taniguchi Masayasu , Takagi Mitsuhiro
Published: April 2021

The relationships between changes in anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentration and various traits, including milk somatic cell counts (SCC), were evaluated. Blood samples were collected from 43 Holstein cows 14 days before (D-14) and 10 (D10) and 28 days after (D28) parturition, and vaginal discharge score (VDS) and polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) percentages were assessed in endometrial samples at D28. Cows were separated into four quartiles (Q1–Q4) based on changes in AMH concentration during the peripartum period (AMH ratio: D28/D-14). Correlations between AMH ratio and each parameter were evaluated and classified into high-AMH (Q4, 1.83 ± 0.12, n = 11) and low-AMH (Q1, 0.83 ± 0.05, n = 11) groups. The AMH ratio was positively correlated with magnesium and non-esterified fatty acids levels, and the albumin/globulin ratio at D10 and D28, but negatively correlated with serum amyloid A (SAA) at D10. SAA and γ-globulin levels were significantly higher in the low-AMH group at D28. There was no significant difference in VDS, PMNL percentage, and milk SCC between the two groups. The decreasing AMH ratio from the prepartum to the postpartum period corresponds to high inflammation biomarker levels. Whether it subsequently affects the reproductive prognosis of postpartum cows needs further investigations.
Identification of the Potential Role of the Rumen Microbiome in Milk Protein and Fat Synthesis in Dairy Cows Using Metagenomic Sequencing
Authors: Wu Xin , Huang Shuai , Huang Jinfeng , Peng Peng , Liu Yanan , Han Bo , Sun Dongxiao
Published: April 2021

The rumen contains abundant microorganisms that aid in the digestion of lignocellulosic feed and are associated with host phenotype traits. Cows with extremely high milk protein and fat percentages (HPF; n = 3) and low milk protein and fat percentages (LPF; n = 3) were selected from 4000 lactating Holstein cows under the same nutritional and management conditions. We found that the total concentration of volatile fatty acids, acetate, butyrate, and propionate in the rumen fluid was significantly higher in the HPF group than in the LPF group. Moreover, we identified 38 most abundant species displaying differential richness between the two groups, in which Prevotella accounted for 68.8% of the species, with the highest abundance in the HPF group. Functional annotation based on the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genome (KEGG), evolutionary genealogy of genes: Non-supervised Orthologous Groups (eggNOG), and Carbohydrate-Active enzymes (CAZy) databases showed that the significantly more abundant species in the HPF group are enriched in carbohydrate, amino acid, pyruvate, insulin, and lipid metabolism and transportation. Furthermore, Spearman’s rank correlation analysis revealed that specific microbial taxa (mainly the Prevotella species and Neocallimastix californiae) are positively correlated with total volatile fatty acids (VFA). Collectively, we found that the HPF group was enriched with several Prevotella species related to the total VFA, acetate, and amino acid synthesis. Thereby, these fulfilled the host’s needs for energy, fat, and rumen microbial protein, which can be used for increased biosynthesis of milk fat and milk protein. Our findings provide novel information for elucidation of the regulatory mechanism of the rumen in the formation of milk composition.
In Vitro Protein Disappearance of Raw Chicken as Dog Foods Decreased by Thermal Processing, but Was Unaffected by Non-Thermal Processing
Authors: Kim Hansol , Jung Ah Hyun , Park Sung Hee , Yoon Yohan , Kim Beob Gyun
Published: April 2021

The objectives of the present study were to determine the influence of thermal and non-thermal processing procedures on in vitro ileal disappearance (IVID) of dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) in chicken meat as dog foods using 2-step in vitro assays. In thermal processing experiments, IVID of DM and CP in chicken meat thermally processed at 70, 90, and 121 °C, respectively, with increasing processing time was determined. For non-thermal processing experiments, IVID of DM and CP in chicken meat processed by high-pressure, ultraviolet-light emitting diode (UV-LED), electron-beam, and gamma-ray was determined. Thermal processing of chicken meat at 70, 90, and 121 °C resulted in decreased IVID of CP (p < 0.05) as heating time increased. In non-thermal processing experiment, IVID of CP in chicken meat was not affected by high-pressure processing or UV-LED radiation. In vitro ileal disappearance of CP in electron-beam- or gamma-ray-irradiated chicken meat was not affected by the irradiation intensity. Taken together, ileal protein digestibility of chicken meat for dogs is decreased by thermal processing, but is minimally affected by non-thermal processing methods.
Cottonseed Kernel Powder as a Natural Health Supplement: An Approach to Reduce the Gossypol Content and Maximize the Nutritional Benefits
Authors: Satankar Varsha , Singh Mohan , Mageshwaran Vellaichamy , Jhodkar Durwesh , Changan Sushil , Kumar Manoj , Mekhemar Mohamed
Published: April 2021

Cottonseed is one of the important by-products of the cotton crop. Researchers claim that cottonseed with less than 0.45% of gossypol is quite good for human consumption and animal feeding because it is a rich source of protein, edible oil, and energy. Total and free gossypols are the influencing parameters that reduce the edible nature of the cottonseed. In the present work, multiple quadratic regression models have been prepared to predict the reduction in the free and total gossypol percent. This response surface method (RSM)-based approach was applied to investigate the combined effect between input parameters such as acetone level, time of extraction, liquid-to-solid ratio (LSR), and the number of extraction cycles, whereas output responses are free and total gossypol reduction percentage. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) has been performed to determine the highly significant parameter. The optimum combination of input parameters was determined using the RSM-based desirability approach, and confirmatory experiments were performed to validate the combination. Results revealed that the number of extraction cycles and liquid-to-solid ratio significantly affects the reduction of free and total gossypol levels. The values of r-square were found above 0.9, which indicates that the developed models are suitable and reliable for predicting free and total gossypol reduction percentage.
Analysis of Pulses Bandwidth and Spectral Resolution in Femtosecond Stimulated Raman Scattering Microscopy
Authors: Sirleto Luigi , Ranjan Rajeev , Ferrara Maria Antonietta
Published: April 2021

In the last decade, stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) imaging has been demonstrated to be a powerful method for label-free, non-invasive mapping of individual species distributions in a multicomponent system. This is due to the chemical selectivity of SRS techniques and the linear dependence of SRS signals on the individual species concentrations. However, even if significant efforts have been made to improve spectroscopic coherent Raman imaging technology, what is the best way to resolve overlapped Raman bands in biological samples is still an open question. In this framework, spectral resolution, i.e., the ability to distinguish closely lying resonances, is the crucial point. Therefore, in this paper, the interplay among pump and Stokes bandwidths, the degree of chirp-matching and the spectral resolution of femtosecond stimulated Raman scattering microscopy are experimentally investigated and the separation of protein and lipid bands in the C-H region, which are of great interest in biochemical studies, is, in principle, demonstrated.
Online Local Path Planning on the Campus Environment for Autonomous Driving Considering Road Constraints and Multiple Obstacles
Authors: Park Changhyeon , Kee Seok-Cheol
Published: April 2021

In this paper, an urban-based path planning algorithm that considered multiple obstacles and road constraints in a university campus environment with an autonomous micro electric vehicle (micro-EV) is studied. Typical path planning algorithms, such as A*, particle swarm optimization (PSO), and rapidly exploring random tree* (RRT*), take a single arrival point, resulting in a lane departure situation on the high curved roads. Further, these could not consider urban-constraints to set collision-free obstacles. These problems cause dangerous obstacle collisions. Additionally, for drive stability, real-time operation should be guaranteed. Therefore, an urban-based online path planning algorithm, which is robust in terms of a curved-path with multiple obstacles, is proposed. The algorithm is constructed using two methods, A* and an artificial potential field (APF). To validate and evaluate the performance in a campus environment, autonomous driving systems, such as vehicle localization, object recognition, vehicle control, are implemented in the micro-EV. Moreover, to confirm the algorithm stability in the complex campus environment, hazard scenarios that complex obstacles can cause are constructed. These are implemented in the form of a delivery service using an autonomous driving simulator, which mimics the Chungbuk National University (CBNU) campus.
Stability of the Natural Joint Side in Unilateral Alloplastic Total Temporomandibular Joint Replacement Using a Ready-Made System
Authors: Kim Jin-Hong , Park Byung-Ho , Yoo Myoung-Sang , Lee Bu-Kyu
Published: April 2021

An alloplastic total joint replacement (TJR) is an effective and reliable treatment option in non-salvageable end-stage temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disease. However, unilateral alloplastic TJR of the TMJ (TMJ TJR) could affect the other side natural joint because the physiologic action of both condyles is quite different during mandibular movement. In this study, we examined whether the unilaterally replaced alloplastic TMJ TJR affects the other side natural joint condition over long periods of time. Eight patients who received alloplastic TJR on one side were subjects in this study. All alloplastic TJR implants were stable in situ. The average maximum mouth opening was 37.5 mm (range 19–49 mm) pre-operatively and 44.1 mm (range 34–57 mm) post-operatively. This parameter gradually increased and reached the maximum at about twelve months after surgery. The post-operative change of pain level was significantly reduced from 3.5 to 0 on a pain scale of zero to ten. No significant complications in any joints were observed within the follow-up period. The shape of the natural joint sides showed slight changes but were functionally stable during the observation period. In this study, unilateral alloplastic TJR showed stable and reliable clinical results, either alloplastic TJR or healthy joint sides for quite long period of time.
Investigation of Seal Cavity Leakage Flow Effect on Multistage Axial Compressor Aerodynamic Performance with a Circumferentially Averaged Method
Authors: Liang Dong , Jin Donghai , Gui Xingmin
Published: April 2021

The seal cavity leakage flow has a considerable impact on the performance of the aeroengine, especially on the multistage compressor. Thus, a quasi-three-dimensional simulation program named CAM is developed basing on circumferentially averaged throughflow method. The program enables a rapid diagnosis for the performance degradation of multistage compressor caused by labyrinth wear. The coupling flow field between the seal cavity leakage flow and the main flow field at the root of the shrouded stator of a high-loading three-stage compressor with inlet guide vanes (IGV) was simulated by CAM and the results indicate that seal cavity leakage flow has a significant impact on the overall performance of the compressor. That is, for a 1% increase in the seal-tooth clearance-to-span ratio, the decrease in total pressure ratio was 2.6%, and the reduction in efficiency was 0.6%. Stage performance shows that the seal cavity leakage flow reduces the pressurization capacity of the current stator and the work capacity of the downstream rotor, but has little effect on the upstream blade row. Spanwise distribution of blade element performance shows that the leakage flow leads to an increased flow blockage near the hub, resulting in spanwise migration. The incidence of the stator and rear rotor then change through the entire span. The leakage flow leads to the flow blockage and migration and hence changes the incidence angle, which results in the deterioration of compressor performance.
Development and Application of a Wide Dynamic Range and High Resolution Atmospheric Aerosol Water-Based Supersaturation Condensation Growth Measurement System
Authors: Bian Jiejie , Gui Huaqiao , Wei Xiuli , Yu Tongzhu , Xie Zhibo , Wang Jie , Liu Jianguo
Published: April 2021

The supersaturated condensation of atmospheric aerosol is important in the study of mechanisms of cloud condensation and even heavy air pollution. The existing technology cannot realize accurate dynamic control of wide range supersaturation, so it is difficult to study condensation growth characteristics of nanoparticles through different levels of supersaturation. Here, a supersaturated condensation growth measurement system with three-stage microscope pipes was developed. The resolution of supersaturated condensation system is 0.14, within the range of 0.92 to 2.33 after calibration. Stabilization time is only about 80 s for saturation range 0.92–1.01, which helps to control saturation rapidly, and the control deviation of saturation is no more than 0.06. Measurement of different supersaturated condensation growth control conditions showed that, the particle size increased significantly compared with hygroscopic growth at high humidity. For single-component particles, the increase in size increased to a similar size at the same saturation, with a difference within 7.4%. The increase in size for ammonium sulfate (AS) increased by 13.4–30.2% relative to that of glucose. For the mixed-component, the increase in size decreased about 15.9–25.0% with the increase of the glucose. Because the glucose coating on the surface of AS have hindered particle growth. This also shows that atmospheric ultrafine particles, especially inorganic salt particles, will rapidly grow into larger particles under supersaturated conditions such as increased environmental humidity, thus having some impact on environmental pollution and climate change.
Current Trend of Carbon Emissions from Wildfires in Siberia
Authors: Ponomarev Evgenii , Yakimov Nikita , Ponomareva Tatiana , Yakubailik Oleg , Conard Susan G.
Published: April 2021

Smoke from wildfires in Siberia often affects air quality over vast territories of the Northern hemisphere during the summer. Increasing fire emissions also affect regional and global carbon balance. To estimate annual carbon emissions from wildfires in Siberia from 2002–2020, we categorized levels of fire intensity for individual active fire pixels based on fire radiative power data from the standard MODIS product (MOD14/MYD14). For the last two decades, estimated annual direct carbon emissions from wildfires varied greatly, ranging from 20–220 Tg C per year. Sporadic maxima were observed in 2003 (>150 Tg C/year), in 2012 (>220 Tg C/year), in 2019 (~180 Tg C/year). However, the 2020 fire season was extraordinary in terms of fire emissions (~350 Tg C/year). The estimated average annual level of fire emissions was 80 ± 20 Tg C/year when extreme years were excluded from the analysis. For the next decade the average level of fire emissions might increase to 250 ± 30 Tg C/year for extreme fire seasons, and to 110 ± 20 Tg C/year for moderate fire seasons. However, under the extreme IPCC RPC 8.5 scenario for Siberia, wildfire emissions might increase to 1200–1500 Tg C/year by 2050 if there were no significant changes in patterns of vegetation distribution and fuel loadings.
Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Primary Adipose Stromal Cells Induce Elastin and Collagen Deposition by Smooth Muscle Cells within 3D Fibrin Gel Culture
Authors: Cunnane Eoghan M. , Ramaswamy Aneesh K. , Lorentz Katherine L. , Vorp David A. , Weinbaum Justin S.
Published: April 2021

Macromolecular components of the vascular extracellular matrix (ECM), particularly elastic fibers and collagen fibers, are critical for the proper physiological function of arteries. When the unique biomechanical combination of these fibers is disrupted, or in the ultimate extreme where fibers are completely lost, arterial disease can emerge. Bioengineers in the realms of vascular tissue engineering and regenerative medicine must therefore ideally consider how to create tissue engineered vascular grafts containing the right balance of these fibers and how to develop regenerative treatments for situations such as an aneurysm where fibers have been lost. Previous work has demonstrated that the primary cells responsible for vascular ECM production during development, arterial smooth muscle cells (SMCs), can be induced to make new elastic fibers when exposed to secreted factors from adipose-derived stromal cells. To further dissect how this signal is transmitted, in this study, the factors were partitioned into extracellular vesicle (EV)-rich and EV-depleted fractions as well as unseparated controls. EVs were validated using electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and protein quantification before testing for biological effects on SMCs. In 2D culture, EVs promoted SMC proliferation and migration. After 30 days of 3D fibrin construct culture, EVs promoted SMC transcription of the elastic microfibril gene FBN1 as well as SMC deposition of insoluble elastin and collagen. Uniaxial biomechanical properties of strand fibrin constructs were no different after 30 days of EV treatment versus controls. In summary, it is apparent that some of the positive effects of adipose-derived stromal cells on SMC elastogenesis are mediated by EVs, indicating a potential use for these EVs in a regenerative therapy to restore the biomechanical function of vascular ECM in arterial disease.
Current Understanding of the Structure and Function of Pentapeptide Repeat Proteins
Authors: Zhang Ruojing , Kennedy Michael A.
Published: April 2021

The pentapeptide repeat protein (PRP) superfamily, identified in 1998, has grown to nearly 39,000 sequences from over 3300 species. PRPs, recognized as having at least eight contiguous pentapeptide repeats (PRs) of a consensus pentapeptide sequence, adopt a remarkable structure, namely, a right-handed quadrilateral β-helix with four consecutive PRs forming a single β-helix coil. Adjacent coils join together to form a β-helix “tower” stabilized by β-ladders on the tower faces and type I, type II, or type IV β-turns facilitating an approximately −90° redirection of the polypeptide chain joining one coil face to the next. PRPs have been found in all branches of life, but they are predominantly found in cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria have existed on earth for more than two billion years and are thought to be responsible for oxygenation of the earth’s atmosphere. Filamentous cyanobacteria such as Nostoc sp. strain PCC 7120 may also represent the oldest and simplest multicellular organisms known to undergo cell differentiation on earth. Knowledge of the biochemical function of these PRPs is essential to understanding how ancient cyanobacteria achieved functions critical to early development of life on earth. PRPs are predicted to exist in all cyanobacteria compartments including thylakoid and cell-wall membranes, cytoplasm, and thylakoid periplasmic space. Despite their intriguing structure and importance to understanding ancient cyanobacteria, the biochemical functions of PRPs in cyanobacteria remain almost completely unknown. The precise biochemical function of only a handful of PRPs is currently known from any organisms, and three-dimensional structures of only sixteen PRPs or PRP-containing multidomain proteins from any organism have been reported. In this review, the current knowledge of the structures and functions of PRPs is presented and discussed.
Use of Drugs for ATTRv Amyloidosis in the Real World: How Therapy Is Changing Survival in a Non-Endemic Area
Authors: Russo Massimo , Gentile Luca , Di Stefano Vincenzo , Di Bella Gianluca , Minutoli Fabio , Toscano Antonio , Brighina Filippo , Vita Giuseppe , Mazzeo Anna
Published: April 2021

Background: Over the past decade, three new drugs have been approved for the treatment of hereditary amyloid transthyretin (ATTRv) polyneuropathy. The aim of this work was to analyze whether current therapies prolong survival for patients affected by ATTRv amyloidosis. Methods: The study was conducted retrospectively, analyzing the medical records of 105 patients with genetic diagnoses of familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy followed at the two referral centers for the disease in Sicily, Italy. Of these, 71 received disease-modifying therapy, while 34 received only symptomatic treatment or no therapy. Results: The most used treatment in our patient cohort was tafamidis, followed by liver transplantation, patisiran, inotersen, and diflunisal. The median survival was significantly longer for treated vs. untreated patients (12 years vs. 8 years). In the 71 patients who received disease-modifying treatment, the presence of cardiac involvement, weight loss, or autonomic dysfunction at diagnosis was not related to survival. Conversely, patients diagnosed in the early stage of the disease (PND 1) had significantly longer survival than those diagnosed in the late stage (PND 2–4).
Cognitive Effects of Montelukast: A Pharmaco-EEG Study
Authors: Schwimmbeck Fabian , Staffen Wolfgang , Höhn Christopher , Rossini Fabio , Renz Nora , Lobendanz Markus , Reichenpfader Peter , Iglseder Bernhard , Aigner Ludwig , Trinka Eugen , Höller Yvonne
Published: April 2021

Montelukast is a well-established antiasthmatic drug with little side effects. It is a leukotriene receptor antagonist and recent research suggests cognitive benefits from its anti-inflammatory actions on the central nervous system. However, changes in brain activity were not directly shown so far in humans. This study aims to document changes in brain activity that are associated with cognitive improvement during treatment with Montelukast. We recorded EEG and conducted neuropsychological tests in 12 asthma-patients aged 38–73 years before and after 8 weeks of treatment with Montelukast. We found no significant changes on neuropsychological scales for memory, attention, and mood. In the EEG, we found decreased entropy at follow up during rest (p < 0.005). During episodic memory acquisition we found decreased entropy (p < 0.01) and acceleration of the background rhythm (p < 0.05). During visual attention performance, we detected an increase in gamma power (p < 0.005) and slowing of the background rhythm (p < 0.05). The study is limited by its small sample size, young age and absence of baseline cognitive impairment of the participants. Unspecific changes in brain activity were not accompanied by cognitive improvement. Future studies should examine elderly patients with cognitive impairment in a double-blind study with longer-term treatment by Montelukast.
Citation Classics in Consumer Neuroscience, Neuromarketing and Neuroaesthetics: Identification and Conceptual Analysis
Authors: Sánchez-Núñez Pablo , Cobo Manuel J. , Vaccaro Gustavo , Peláez José Ignacio , Herrera-Viedma Enrique
Published: April 2021

Neuromarketing, consumer neuroscience and neuroaesthetics are a broad research area of neuroscience with an extensive background in scientific publications. Thus, the present study aims to identify the highly cited papers (HCPs) in this research field, to deliver a summary of the academic work produced during the last decade in this area, and to show patterns, features, and trends that define the past, present, and future of this specific area of knowledge. The HCPs show a perspective of those documents that, historically, have attracted great interest from a research community and that could be considered as the basis of the research field. In this study, we retrieved 907 documents and analyzed, through H-Classics methodology, 50 HCPs identified in the Web of Science (WoS) during the period 2010–2019. The H-Classic approach offers an objective method to identify core knowledge in neuroscience disciplines such as neuromarketing, consumer neuroscience, and neuroaesthetics. To accomplish this study, we used Bibliometrix R Package and SciMAT software. This analysis provides results that give us a useful insight into the development of this field of research, revealing those scientific actors who have made the greatest contribution to its development: authors, institutions, sources, countries as well as documents and references.
Amide-Type Substrates in the Synthesis of N-Protected 1-Aminomethylphosphonium Salts
Authors: Kozicka Dominika , Zieleźny Paulina , Erfurt Karol , Adamek Jakub
Published: April 2021

Herein we describe the development and optimization of a two-step procedure for the synthesis of N-protected 1-aminomethylphosphonium salts from imides, amides, carbamates, or lactams. Our “step-by-step” methodology involves the transformation of amide-type substrates to the corresponding hydroxymethyl derivatives, followed by the substitution of the hydroxyl group with a phosphonium moiety. The first step of the described synthesis was conducted based on well-known protocols for hydroxymethylation with formaldehyde or paraformaldehyde. In turn, the second (substitution) stage required optimization studies. In general, reactions of amide, carbamate, and lactam derivatives occurred at a temperature of 70 °C in a relatively short time (1 h). On the other hand, N-hydroxymethylimides reacted with triarylphosphonium salts at a much higher temperature (135 °C) and over longer reaction times (as much as 30 h). However, the proposed strategy is very efficient, especially when NaBr is used as a catalyst. Moreover, a simple work-up procedure involving only crystallization afforded good to excellent yields (up to 99%).
In Vitro Evaluation of CD276-CAR NK-92 Functionality, Migration and Invasion Potential in the Presence of Immune Inhibitory Factors of the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Grote Stefan , Ureña-Bailén Guillermo , Chan Kenneth Chun-Ho , Baden Caroline , Mezger Markus , Handgretinger Rupert , Schleicher Sabine
Published: April 2021

Background: Melanoma is the most lethal of all skin-related cancers with incidences continuously rising. Novel therapeutic approaches are urgently needed, especially for the treatment of metastasizing or therapy-resistant melanoma. CAR-modified immune cells have shown excellent results in treating hematological malignancies and might represent a new treatment strategy for refractory melanoma. However, solid tumors pose some obstacles for cellular immunotherapy, including the identification of tumor-specific target antigens, insufficient homing and infiltration of immune cells as well as immune cell dysfunction in the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Methods: In order to investigate whether CAR NK cell-based immunotherapy can overcome the obstacles posed by the TME in melanoma, we generated CAR NK-92 cells targeting CD276 (B7-H3) which is abundantly expressed in solid tumors, including melanoma, and tested their effectivity in vitro in the presence of low pH, hypoxia and other known factors of the TME influencing anti-tumor responses. Moreover, the CRISPR/Cas9-induced disruption of the inhibitory receptor NKG2A was assessed for its potential enhancement of NK-92-mediated anti-tumor activity. Results: CD276-CAR NK-92 cells induced specific cytolysis of melanoma cell lines while being able to overcome a variety of the immunosuppressive effects normally exerted by the TME. NKG2A knock-out did not further improve CAR NK-92 cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Conclusions: The strong cytotoxic effect of a CD276-specific CAR in combination with an “off-the-shelf” NK-92 cell line not being impaired by some of the most prominent negative factors of the TME make CD276-CAR NK-92 cells a promising cellular product for the treatment of melanoma and beyond.
Positive Correlation between nNOS and Stress-Activated Bowel Motility Is Confirmed by In Vivo HiBiT System
Authors: Han Jeong Pil , Lee Jeong Hyeon , Lee Geon Seong , Koo Ok Jae , Yeom Su Cheong
Published: April 2021

Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) has various roles as a neurotransmitter. However, studies to date have produced insufficient data to fully support the correlation between nNOS and bowel motility. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between nNOS expression and gastrointestinal (GI) tract motility using a stress-induced neonatal maternal separation (NMS) mouse model. In this study, we generated a genetically modified mouse with the HiBiT sequence knock-in into the nNOS gene using CRISPR/Cas9 for analyzing accurate nNOS expression. nNOS expression was measured in the stomach, small intestine, large intestine, adrenal gland, and hypothalamus tissues after establishing the NMS model. The NMS model exhibited a significant increase in nNOS expression in large intestine, adrenal gland, and hypothalamus. Moreover, a significant positive correlation was observed between whole gastrointestinal transit time and the expression level of nNOS. We reasoned that NMS induced chronic stress and consequent nNOS activation in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and led to an excessive increase in intestinal motility in the lower GI tract. These results demonstrated that HiBiT is a sensitive and valuable tool for analyzing in vivo gene activation, and nNOS could be a biomarker of the HPA axis-linked lower intestinal tract dysfunction.