bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manchester Water Works Epitomizes Partnership Principles
Authors: Miller David G.
Published: January 2021

With its long‐standing culture of excellence and exemplary leadership in the drinking water industry, New Hampshire's Manchester Water Works (MWW) has been recognized as an award‐winning Partnership for Safe Water member utility and remains proactive in protecting public health.
Kansas Water Partnership Tackles Harmful Algal Blooms
Authors: Koukol Jerry
Published: January 2021

Harmful algal blooms have become an increasing concern in Milford Lake, which supplies drinking water for one‐third of Kansas’ population. Stakeholders worked with agricultural producers to enact conservation practices to drive long‐term improvements in the watershed's health and the lake's water quality.
The investigation of triethylammonium carboxylates influence on the kinetics of urethane formation processing during waterborne polyurethane synthesis
Authors: Karpov Sergei V. , Dzhalmukhanova Aigul S. , Chernyayev Dmitriy A. , Lodygina Vera P. , Firsova Anna I. , Badamshina Elmira R.
Published: January 2021

Kinetic features of the catalytic reaction of isophorone diisocyanate with triethylammonium salt of 2,2‐bis(hydroxymethyl)propionic acid, a hydrophilic agent for obtaining waterborne polyurethane, also with the model 1,1‐bis(hydroxymethyl)ethane and with physical mixture 1,1‐bis(hydroxymethyl)ethane‐triethylamine were studied using IR spectroscopy. The observed rate constant ratios of isophorone diisocyanate aliphatic and cycloaliphatic isocyanate groups interaction with the studied compounds were established, and the catalysis efficiency was evaluated. It was shown that a synergic effect is observed in catalytic systems based on dibutyltin dilaurate and triethylammonium carboxylates with regard to the reactivity of isophorone diisocyanate aliphatic group alone in the urethane formation reaction.
Recent progress in micro‐/nano‐fibrillar reinforced polymeric composite foams
Authors: Zhao Chongxiang , Mark Lun Howe , Kim Sundong , Chang Eunse , Park Chul B. , Lee Patrick C.
Published: January 2021

Manufacture of thermoplastic foams with a fine cellular structure (a higher expansion ratio, a higher cell density, and smaller cell sizes) is challenging work due to the weak viscoelastic behavior and the unsuitable crystallization behavior of common thermoplastic materials. In this work, a novel method of making microcellular foams with micro‐/nano‐fibrillar reinforced polymeric composites (M/NFC) is introduced, which shows various advantages compared to conventional foams. The M/NFC foams have improved cellular structures, excellent mechanical properties, and enhanced thermal insulation properties, which make them popular candidates for structural applications and insulative products. Various methods to manufacture of M/NFC foam are summarized. To understand the fundamental mechanisms of the foaming enhancement by incorporating micro‐/nano‐size fibrils, the rheological and crystallization behavior of the M/NFC are analyzed. It is shown that the micro‐/nano‐fibrils can strengthen the melt strength, induce faster crystallization, and increase the number of crystals. Due to the improvement of the cell morphology and the stiffness of the cell walls, the reinforced foams have superior mechanical properties. A hierarchically porous structure in high expansion ratio reinforced foams has also been developed. It is believed that the nano‐size holes in the cell walls can further reduce the thermal conductivity of the foams.
Multifunctionality and intrinsic disorder of royal jelly proteome
Authors: Uversky Vladimir N. , Albar Abdulgader H. , Khan Rizwan H. , Redwan Elrashdy M.
Published: January 2021

Royal Jelly (RJ) is a gelatinous white‐yellowish fluid, possessing a sour taste and a slight phenolic smell that is secreted by the hypopharyngeal and mandibular salivary glands of the nurse honeybees, and is used in nutrition of larvae and adult queens. Similar to other substances associated with the activities of honeybees, RJ not only contains nutritive components, such as carbohydrates, proteins, peptides, lipids, vitamins, and mineral salts, but also represents a natural ingredient with cosmetic and health‐promoting properties. RJ is characterized by remarkable multifunctionality, possessing numerous biological activities. Although this multifunctionality of RJ can be considered as a consequence of its complex nature, many proteins and peptides in RJ are polyfunctional entities themselves. In this article, we show that RJ proteins contain different levels of intrinsic disorder, have sites of post‐translational modifications, can be found in multiple isoforms, and many of them possess disorder‐based binding sites, suggesting that the conformational ensembles of the RJ proteins might undergo change as a result of their interaction with specific binding partners. All these observations suggest that the multifunctionality of proteins and peptides from RJ is determined by their structural heterogeneity and polymorphism, and serve as an illustration of the protein structure‐function continuum concept.
Locked‐In Syndrome: Practical Rehabilitation Management
Authors: Farr Ellen , Altonji Kathryn , Harvey Richard L.
Published: January 2021

Locked‐in syndrome is a rare and devastating condition that results in tetraplegia, lower cranial nerve paralysis, and anarthria with preserved cognition, vertical gaze, and upper eyelid movements. Although acute management is much like that of any severe stroke, rehabilitation and recovery of these patients have not been previously described. Challenges relevant to this population include blood pressure management and orthostasis, timing and appropriateness of reinstating oral feeding, ventilatory support, decannulation after tracheostomy, bowel and bladder management, vestibular dysfunction, and eye care. Targeted rehabilitation of head, neck, and trunk stability to improve function, and proper fit in an appropriate wheelchair are essential to assist with mobility. Rehabilitation interventions should include a focus on distal motor control and upright tolerance training followed by balance and mobility exercises. In addition, special considerations must be given to developing early methods of communication through use of augmentative systems to call for help and express needs. These systems along with additional technology provide the basis to promote connectivity to family and friends through the use of social media and the internet. Establishment of communication, mobility, and connectivity is essential in promoting independence, autonomy, and improving quality of life. Overall, with specialized rehabilitative care and access to the proper equipment, long‐term outcomes and quality of life in these patients can be favorable.
The improved photosensitivity of photosensitive polyimides containing o‐nitrobenzyl ether groups induced by the addition of photoacid generator
Authors: Song Gwang‐Sik , Heo Youn‐Jung , Baek Jeong Ju , Lee Hyosun , Bae Geun Yeol , Choi Kyung Ho , Koh Won‐Gun , Shin Gyojic
Published: January 2021

In this article, photosensitive polyimides (PSPIs) with photosensitive groups, o‐nitrobenzyl ether groups (Nb), were successfully synthesized based on 2,2′‐dihydroxy benzophenone‐3,3′,4,4′‐tetracarboxylic dianhydride and on diamine containing ethylene glycol chains (ODA). Also, a series of polyimide (PI), ODA‐1‐PI, ODA‐3‐PI, and ODA‐5‐PI with a number of ethylene glycol chains of 1, 3, and 5 were prepared to investigate the relationship between structure and solubility. Interestingly, ODA‐5‐PI, which possesses a large number of ethylene glycols, exhibited the most excellent solubility. Therefore, due to the good solubility of ODA‐5‐PI in organic solvents and alkaline solutions, a PSPI, poly(1,4‐phenyleneoxy‐3,6,9,12,15‐pentaoxaoctane‐1,4‐phenylene‐2,2′‐di[2‐nitrobenzyloxy]benzophenone‐3,3′,4,4′‐tetracarboxdiimide), named ODA‐5‐PSPI, was synthesized by linking Nb, which is a photosensitive group. Aiming at producing positive tone patterns, the synthesized ODA‐5‐PSPI was exposed to UV irradiation and then to a post‐exposure bake. Afterward, it was developed using a 2.38 wt% tetramethylammonium hydroxide solution. Furthermore, a photoacid generator (PAG) was additionally incorporated for a micropatterning process. Notably, in the presence of the PAG, the photocleavage of ODA‐5‐PSPI occurred not only by the intramolecular rearrangement of Nb but also by its hydrolysis reaction. As a result, due to the synergistic effect of photocleavage, the micropatterning of ODA‐5‐PSPI with PAG could be clearly obtained with less energy (2.0 J/cm2) compared with that without PAG (3.6 J/cm2). Therefore, through the addition of PAG, the photosensitivity was improved by 45%.
Protective effects and possible mechanisms of Centella asiatica (L.) urban extract against acute and chronic liver injury: Evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies
Authors: Lu Jiabin , Chen Chao , Gai Renhua , Qiu Huacheng , Wu Yue , He Qiaojun , Yang Xiaochun
Published: January 2021

Drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) has become a significant health care problem worldwide. Centella asiatica (L.) urban was traditionally used to prevent or treat various diseases, yet whether it works on hepatic injury remains unclear. In this study, multiple experimental models with different damage degrees and types of liver injury have been established to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of an n‐butanol extract of Centella asiatica (CA‐BU). Our results revealed that CA‐BU improved hepatocyte L02 cells survival from H2O2‐induced oxidative damage in a concentration‐dependent manner. We further verified the hepatoprotective effects of CA‐BU in mice models of acetaminophen‐induced acute liver injury (one of the most common DILIs clinically) and CCl4‐induced acute chemical liver injury, and a rat model of chronic alcoholic steatohepatitis. Furthermore, network pharmacology approaches were performed to explore the underlying mechanisms, and we predicted AKT1, EGFR, VEGFA, and STAT3 as the potential therapeutic targets. In follow‐up studies, we will focus on targets verification and provide a deeper insight into the mechanisms of CA‐BU against liver damage. Finally, we hope that these findings will provide new ideas and insights for the treatment of acute or chronic liver injury in the clinic.
Automatic segmentation of temporal bone structures from clinical conventional CT using a CNN approach
Authors: Lv Yi , Ke Jia , Xu Ying , Shen Yu , Wang Junchen , Wang Jiang
Published: January 2021

Background

Automatic segmentation of temporal bone structures from patients' conventional computed tomography (CT) data plays an important role in the image‐guided cochlear implant surgery. Existing convolutional neural network approaches have difficulties in segmenting such small tubular structures.

Methods

We propose a light‐weight three‐dimensional convolutional neural network referred to as W‐Net to achieve multiobjective segmentation of temporal bone structures including the cochlear labyrinth, ossicular chain and facial nerve from conventional temporal bone CT images. Data augmentation with morphological enhancement is proposed to increase the segmentation accuracy of small tubular structures. Evaluation against the state‐of‐the‐art methods is performed.

Results

Our method achieved mean Dice similarity coefficients (DSCs) of 0.90, 0.85 and 0.77 for the cochlear labyrinth, ossicular chain and facial nerve, respectively. These results were also close to the DSCs between human expert annotators (0.91, 0.91 and 0.72).

Conclusions

Our method achieves human‐level accuracy in the segmentation of the cochlear labyrinth, ossicular chain and facial nerve.
Half‐Metallic Devices from Armchair Graphene Nanoribbons with Transition Metal Guest Atoms
Authors: Hagelberg Frank , Rodrigues Romero José , Probst Michael , Khavryuchenko Oleksiy
Published: January 2021

The spin‐dependent transmission properties of (0,8) graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) with two substitutional Fe atom impurities (2Fe‐aGNRs) have been studied by the non‐equilibrium Green's function (NEGF) method in conjunction with density functional theory (DFT). Emphasis is placed on the spin‐filtering activity of current transmission elements derived from these structures. In particular, it is shown that devices based on 2Fe‐aGNR approach the limit of half‐metallicity, where the magnitude and the sign of the current spin polarization is controlled by the bias across the device as well as the spin state of the 2Fe subsystem. This effect is rationalized by electronic structure and partial‐density‐of‐states (PDOS) analysis of the transmission element. An occupied spin minority state, induced by the Fe‐atom moiety and close to the Fermi energy of 2Fe‐aGNR, accounts for the predominance of minority spin polarization. Comparison with nanosystems obtained from 2Fe‐aGNR, involving vacancies rather than impurities, or both types of defects, reveals that substantial degrees of current spin polarization prevail across a wide variety of device types.
Specific Organocatalysis in Amidation Reaction of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters with 3‐(Dimethylamino)‐1‐propylamine
Authors: Shirshin Konstantin K. , Esipovich Anton L. , Kazantsev Oleg A. , Rumyantsev Misha , Korotaev Mikhail S. , Rogozhin Anton E.
Published: January 2021

Comparison of various organic compounds such as glycols, amines and alkanolamines as organocatalysts in amidation of fatty acid methyl esters with 3‐(dimethylamino)‐1‐propylamine was made for the first time. It was experimentally detected that catalysts containing OH‐groups (alcohols, glycols, glycerol and aminoalcohols) influence the reaction rate. Moreover, catalytic effect is depending on the catalysts geometry significantly. 1,5‐diols (e. g. diethylene glycol and diethanolamine) were found to accelerate the reaction more than other OH‐groups containing additives. It was supposed, that this catalytic effect is caused by specific associative interactions between reactants and 1,5‐diols, what was confirmed by quantum mechanics calculations. Catalysts concentration effects on the reaction rate were also investigated.
NiRu0.3Se Nanoparticles In Situ Grown on Reduced Graphene: Synthesis and Electrocatalytic Activity in the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Mehmood Adeel , Ur‐Rehman Zia , Altaf Muhammad , Ashraf Raja Shahid , Sohail Manzar , Isab Anvarhusein A.
Published: January 2021

Nanoscale transition metal selenides have been tagged as promising electrocatalytic materials for efficient energy conversion. Herein, we report the facile hydrothermal synthesis of NiRu0.3Se nanoparticles, in situ grown on reduced graphene oxide, for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in water splitting. The crystal phase, morphology and elemental composition of NiRu0.3Se/rGO is well characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). The composite exhibited hexagonal and cubic phase structure corresponding to NiSe and RuSe2, having irregular morphology. NiRu0.3Se/rGO exhibited superior OER performance than NiSe/rGO requiring an overpotential of 290 mV to generate a benchmarked current density of 10 mA cm−2 in 0.1 M KOH. A small tafel slope of 98 mV dec−1 and long‐term stability endorses the potential of NiRu0.3Se/rGO as an efficient OER electrocatalyst.
Synthesis, TDDFT Calculations and Biological Evaluation of Dicationic Porphyrins as Groove Binders and Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Mathew Diana , Ramesh Jagadeesan , Sasidharan Santanu , Subburaj Kannan , Saudagar Prakash , Parameswaran Pattiyil , Sujatha Subramaniam
Published: January 2021

A2B2 porphyrin bearing 2/3‐thienyl and 2‐pyridyl moieties (P1a, P3a) and its dicationic derivatives (P2a, P4a) were synthesized in reasonably good yield. The corresponding Copper (II) (P1‐4 b) and Zinc (II) metallated (P1‐4 c) analogs were obtained by conventional methods. The synthesized compounds were characterized by various spectroscopic techniques, electrochemical studies and thermogravimetric analysis. The Copper (II) porphyrin, P1b is structurally characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray structure analysis. The ground state electronic structure and geometry optimizations are carried out by DFT calculations. The computed TD‐DFT results validate the observed optical bands and spectral features. DNA interaction studies of trans‐dicationic porphyrins were performed using spectroscopic titrations, docking studies, and gel electrophoresis experiments. All porphyrins interact with the calf thymus DNA by outside groove binding mode with self‐stacking, and the highest intrinsic binding constant of 1.29 ± 0.14×106 M‐1 is observed for P4a. Molecular docking studies reveal that the binding energy of porphyrins with DNA is around −10 kcal/mol. The antimicrobial properties of the dicationic derivatives (P2,4 a, b, c) were investigated against E. Coli and S. aureus under light and dark conditions, and the growth inhibitory effect is found to be negligible when unilluminated.
Stability of the Phosphotriester PDE6D Inhibitors
Authors: Rosenqvist Petja , Sabt Ahmed , Dyunyasheva Venera , Abankwa Daniel , Virta Pasi , Ora Mikko
Published: January 2021

The kinetics for the cleavage of the phosphotriester PDE6D inhibitors 1 (Deltaflexin‐2) and 3 (Deltaflexin‐1) and their derivatives 2, 4 and 5 is presented under various conditions in aqueous solutions. The conversion of the phosphotriesters (1–5) into the phosphodiesters 1**–5** was detected to take place as a major degradation process. In the absence of enzyme, the 4‐acetylthio‐2,2‐dimethyl‐3‐oxobutyl protected compounds (1, 4 and 5) are one order of magnitude more stable than the 4‐acetylthio‐2‐ethoxycarbonyl‐3‐oxo‐2‐methylbutyl protected ones (2 and 3). In cell culture (DMEM) containing fetal bovine serum and l‐glutamine, an intermediary formation of S−S‐dimer competed with the removal of the protecting group after deacetylation of the starting material. In addition, the susceptibility of the compounds to amine nucleophiles as well as their stability under acidic and basic condition were determined in non‐aqueous solutions.
Effect of Benzene Derivatives as Guest Molecules on Semiconductor Properties of MOF‐199
Authors: Zahadiya Haleemathul , Wijesundera Ruwan P. , Hettiarachchi Champika V. , Perera Ishanie R.
Published: January 2021

A metal organic framework, MOF‐199, has been synthesized under solvothermal conditions. Powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) pattern, Fourier‐transform infrared spectra (FT‐IR) and scanning electron microscopic images (SEM) confirmed the formation of the expected MOF‐199 structure. The semiconductor properties of MOF‐199 were then fine‐tuned by introducing three benzene derivatives as guest molecules (aniline, m‐aminobenzoic acid and p‐benzoquinone). Modified MOF‐199 samples were characterized using PXRD and FT‐IR. Mott‐Schottky analysis and solid‐state UV‐visible spectroscopy were used to investigate the semiconductor properties of these materials. Once MOF was modified with benzene derivatives, slight changes in d spacing values of PXRD patterns and appearance of new peaks in FT‐IR spectra were observed. The Mott‐Schottky analysis of modified MOF‐199 demonstrated an enhancement in the carrier concentration up to 83 % and a negative potential shift of the flat band potential compared to pure MOF‐199, indicating a higher degree of band bending. According to the solid‐state UV‐visible spectra, doping with organic molecules reduced the bandgap in modified MOF‐199. Thus, this study evidently showcases the potential of fine‐tuning the semiconductor properties of a MOF according to the requirement that allows a single MOF to be utilized in a variety of applications with a simple modification.
Direct Conversion of Agarose into Alkyl Mono‐ and Disaccharide Surfactants Based on 3,6‐Anhydro L‐ and D‐Galactose Units
Authors: Wang Yunhui , Renault Louise , Guégan Jean‐Paul , Benvegnu Thierry
Published: January 2021

In this work, a new type of agaran‐derived non‐ionic surfactants has been prepared through the one‐pot transformation of agarose into 3,6‐anhydro L‐ and D‐galactose acetal monomers and dimers possessing one or two alkyl chains according to the cyclic or open form of the L‐ and D‐galactose units. The two steps process involves the butanolysis of agarose into butyl mono‐ and disaccharide 3,6‐anhydro L‐ and D‐galactose acetals promoted by the presence of Amberlyst‐15Dry, followed by the transacetalization with n‐dodecanol using the same acid catalyst. The chemical structures of the alkyl mono‐ and disaccharide surfactants were fully characterized by 1D and 2D NMR experiments. Surface activities of these products in a pure form or as mixtures were investigated depending on their hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity and quite low values of superficial tensions (<27 mN m−1) and sunflower seed oil/water interfacial tensions (∼5 mN m−1) were obtained.
Simultaneous Domestic Wastewater Treatment and Electricity Generation in Microbial Fuel Cell with Mn(IV) Oxide Addition
Authors: Ni Jin , Steinberger‐Wilckens Robert , Wang Qunhui
Published: January 2021

Compared to traditional domestic wastewater treatment methods, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) with Manganese(IV) (Mn(IV)) oxide addition were established to promote the degradation efficiency of organics in domestic wastewater and generate electricity simultaneously. Activated sludge consists of various electricigen and Mn(IV) oxide acts as an excellent electron acceptor. Results showed that the MFC with Mn(IV) oxide addition obtained higher total organic carbon and chemical oxygen demand removal efficiencies in domestic wastewater than without Mn(IV) oxide addition and in an open circuit system, and produced a maximum output power density of 0.946 W m−3 with a corresponding maximum voltage density of 0.915 V L−1. Cyclic Voltammograms (CVs) indicated that the current density of the MFC with Mn(IV) oxide addition reached 2.21 mA cm−2 at the peak separation of 0.26 V, whereas the current density of the MFC only was up to 1.15 mA cm−2 at 0.443 V. Linear Sweep Voltammetry (LSV) showed the half‐wave potential and limiting current density of the MFC with Mn(IV) oxide addition as 71 mV and 4.24 mA cm2 respectively, which were higher than corresponding values (36 mV and 3.65 mA cm−2) of the MFC. Tafel curves illustrated the MFC with Mn(IV) oxide addition showed a lower anodic Tafel slope of 6.14±0.393 V−1, confirming the MFC with Mn(IV) oxide addition enabled faster electron‐transfer kinetics as compared to the MFC.
Implementation of Diverse Synthetic and Strategic Approaches to Biologically Active Sulfamides
Authors: Jun Jaden J. , Xie Xiang‐Qun
Published: January 2021

Sulfamide compounds are an important class of motif in various applications in pharmaceutical agents, agriculture, and material science. In this review, various synthetic strategies toward acyclic and cyclic sulfamide compounds utilizing many different methods are described. Herein, efficient and innovative synthetic methods ranging from small molecules to large rings for bioactive compounds, small molecules, and catalyst development are discussed.
Cobalt Single Atoms Embedded in Nitrogen‐Doped Graphene for Selective Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol by Activated Peroxymonosulfate
Authors: Li Jiaquan , Zhao Shiyong , Zhang Lianji , Jiang San Ping , Yang Shi‐Ze , Wang Shaobin , Sun Hongqi , Johannessen Bernt , Liu Shaomin
Published: January 2021

The development of novel single atom catalyst (SAC) is highly desirable in organic synthesis to achieve the maximized atomic efficiency. Here, a Co‐based SAC on nitrogen‐doped graphene (SACo@NG) with high Co content of 4.1 wt% is reported. Various characterization results suggest that the monodispersed Co atoms are coordinated with N atoms to form robust and highly effective catalytic centers to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for organic selective oxidation. The catalytic performance of the SACo@NG/PMS system is conducted on the selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol (BzOH) showing high efficiency with over 90% conversion and benzaldehyde selectivity within 180 min under mild conditions. Both radical and non‐radical processes occurred in the selective oxidation of BzOH, but the non‐radical oxidation plays the dominant role which is accomplished by the adsorption of BzOH/PMS on the surface of SACo@NG and the subsequent electron transfer through the carbon matrix. This work provides new insights to the preparation of efficient transition metal‐based single atom catalysts and their potential applications in PMS mediated selective oxidation of alcohols.
Hollow Multishelled Structured SrTiO3 with La/Rh Co‐Doping for Enhanced Photocatalytic Water Splitting under Visible Light
Authors: Wei Yanze , Wan Jiawei , Wang Jiangyan , Zhang Xing , Yu Ranbo , Yang Nailiang , Wang Dan
Published: January 2021

La‐ and Rh‐co‐doped SrTiO3 (STO:La/Rh) hollow multishelled structures (HoMSs) are fabricated by adding La3+ and Rh3+ ions during the hydrothermal process of converting TiO2 HoMSs to STO HoMSs. STO:La/Rh HoMSs have successfully expanded the light absorption edge to 520 nm. Accompanied with the benefits of the unique hierarchical structure and relatively thin shells, STO:La/Rh HoMSs exhibit elevated light‐harvesting capacity and charge separation efficiency. Compared with STO:La/Rh nanoparticles (NPs), STO:La/Rh HoMSs demonstrate enhanced photocurrent response, photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity, and the quantum efficiency. Moreover, overall water splitting is realized by a Z‐scheme system combining STO:La/Rh HoMSs with BiVO4 (BVO) nanosheets with 1 wt% Pt as the co‐catalyst. Steady evolution of hydrogen and oxygen is performed under both visible light and simulated sunlight irradiation. The solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency of double‐shelled STO:La/Rh HoMS–BVO photocatalysts reaches 0.08%, which is twofold higher than STO:La/Rh NP–BVO photocatalysts.
The Art of the Spiel: Analyzing Donald Trump's Tweets as Gonzo Storytelling
Authors: Monahan Brian , Maratea R. J.
Published: January 2021

This article examines the rhetorical structure of Donald Trump's Twitter communications during the 2016 presidential campaign. The analysis identifies several recurring frames and themes and traces how these elements intersect with one another to build a narrative that depicts a world overrun with dire threats and institutional failures, providing a symbolic context for outlandish rhetoric, self‐praise, and espousal of far‐reaching punitive policies portrayed as necessary to protect idealized morality and social order. Findings suggest new ways to assess the content of Trump's frequent tweets while also considering what the success of his “gonzo” story may reveal about modern political communication and the media ecosystem.
Resiliency and post‐earthquake realignment
Authors: Grigorian Mark
Published: January 2021

Although the mechanics of free‐standing rocking cores have been amply investigated and that numerous replaceable energy dissipating devices with recentring capabilities have been proposed, the literature on complete sustainable earthquake resistant structures has not been fully developed. Seismic sustainability (SS) can be achieved if and only if the structure is capable of collapse prevention (CP) and/or post‐earthquake realignment and repairs (PERR). Rigid rocking core moment frame (RRC‐MF) combinations are special earthquake resistant structures that are capable of damage control, elimination of residual effects, CP, and PERR. High strength cables are commonly utilized as rocking core stabilizers, gap opening and closing regulators as well as energy absorbing devices. RRCs are articulated shear walls developed to reduce relative drift and seismic demand on earthquake‐resistant structures (ERSs), prevent plastic collapse, and help realign the system as needed. After discussing sustainable seismic design (SSD), the mechanics of hybrid rocking–stepping cores and self‐centering steel beams are briefly examined. The following innovations are introduced as part of the current article: (1) introduction to global stiffness reduction (GSR), (2) introduction to restoring force adjustment (RFA), (3) the hybrid rigid rocking–stepping core (RRC), (4) tendon‐enhanced replaceable energy dissipating moment connections (REDMCs), and (5) the heat‐generated realignment system.
Key messages for obstetricians and fetal medicine specialists from the confidential enquiry into stillbirth and neonatal death in twins
Authors: Khalil A. , Reed K.
Published: January 2021

Linked article: There is a comment on this article by Meller et al. Click here to view the Correspondence.
Evaluation of short‐term safety of ultrasound‐guided foetal fluid sampling in the dog (Canis lupus familiaris)
Authors: Tal Smadar , Bar‐Gal Gila Kahila , Arlt Sebastian Patrick
Published: January 2021

Background: In humans, analysis of amniotic fluid is widely used for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. Amniocentesis has scarcely been used in veterinary medicine to date, despite a tremendous potential for clinical and research applications in dogs. Our study aimed to establish a safe method for foetal fluid sampling in female dogs.

Methods: Two transabdominal ultrasound‐guided methods were assessed: the “free hand” and the needle‐guided bracket sampling. In addition, through a subsequent routinely scheduled ovariohysterectomy, fluid was directly collected. Samples from 98 conceptuses were collected at day 46.7 ± 7.5 of pregnancy.

Results: The amount of fluid retrieved varied between 0.5 and 5.0 ml per collection. Macroscopic examination of the uterus and conceptuses identified 53% of the puncture sites. Neither fluid leakage nor foetal injury was detected, and six hematomas (5.8%) were visible. Ultrasound‐guided foetal fluid collection was found to be potentially safe, and it can be performed by using either transabdominal method.

Conclusion: Foetal fluid collection is possible with relative ease and low short‐term risk, and may open paths for diagnostic, therapeutic and research purposes in dogs. The procedure can provide new insights into prenatal clinical medicine, including diagnostics of foetal deaths, early identification of heritable diseases and so on.
Fuzzy rough sets and fuzzy rough neural networks for feature selection: A review
Authors: Ji Wanting , Pang Yan , Jia Xiaoyun , Wang Zhongwei , Hou Feng , Song Baoyan , Liu Mingzhe , Wang Ruili
Published: January 2021

Feature selection aims to select a feature subset from an original feature set based on a certain evaluation criterion. Since feature selection can achieve efficient feature reduction, it has become a key method for data preprocessing in many data mining tasks. Recently, many feature selection strategies have been developed since in most cases it is infeasible to obtain an optimal/reduced feature subset by using exhaustive search. Among these strategies, fuzzy rough set theory has proved to be an ideal candidate for dealing with uncertain information. This article provides a comprehensive review on the fuzzy rough set theory and two fuzzy rough set theory based feature selection methods, that is, fuzzy rough set based feature selection methods and fuzzy rough neural network based feature selection methods. We review the publications related to the fuzzy rough theory and its applications in feature selection. In addition, the challenges in the two types of feature selection methods are also discussed.

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Machine Learning
Introducing Interface Design for Remote Autonomous Systems
Authors: Oury Jacob D. , Ritter Frank E.
Published: January 2021

This chapter presents a high-level overview of how designers of complex systems can address risks to project success associated with operator performance and user-centered design. Operation Centers for remote, autonomous systems rely on an interconnected process involving complex technological systems and human operators. Designers should account for issues at possible points of failure, including the human operators themselves. Compared to other system components, human operators can be error-prone and require different knowledge to design for than engineering components. Operators also typically exhibit a wider range of performance than other system components. We propose the Risk-Driven Incremental Commitment Model as the best guide to decision-making when designing interfaces for high-stakes systems. Designers working with relevant stakeholders must assess where to allocate scarce resources during system development. By knowing the technology, users, and tasks for the proposed system, the designers can make informed decisions to reduce the risk of system failure. This chapter introduces key concepts for informed decision-making when designing operation center systems, presents an example system to ground the material, and provides several broadly applicable design guidelines that support the development of user-centered systems in operation centers.
Conversations About Climate Risk, Adaptation and Resilience in Africa
Authors: Conway Declan , Vincent Katharine
Published: January 2021

This book contributes to previous and ongoing action to initiate and inform conversations about climate risk and the need for adaptation and resilience building. This involves blending insights from climate science about what the future climate will look like with experiences of the social science of response through adaptation, based on practical applications in a variety of contexts. In this chapter, we reflect on these conversations and what they mean for the growing adaptation agenda. We consider who needs to be involved in conversations about adaptation, how such conversations can be structured and the need to assess their outcomes. We profile important considerations relevant for tailoring climate information to make adaptation decisions and discuss the outcomes of different types of conversations. We conclude by noting the significance of recent major climate events and the rapidly evolving risk landscape in sub-Saharan Africa, and arguing that the need for these conversations is ever more evident. The experiences outlined in this book provide a starting point for conversations about adaptation that aim to inform future action.
Qubits on the horizon: decoherence and thermalization near black holes
Authors: Kaplanek Greg , Burgess C. P.
Published: January 2021

Abstract

We examine the late-time evolution of a qubit (or Unruh-De Witt detector) that hovers very near to the event horizon of a Schwarzschild black hole, while interacting with a free quantum scalar field. The calculation is carried out perturbatively in the dimensionless qubit/field coupling g, but rather than computing the qubit excitation rate due to field interactions (as is often done), we instead use Open EFT techniques to compute the late-time evolution to all orders in g2t/rs (while neglecting order g4t/rs effects) where rs = 2GM is the Schwarzschild radius. We show that for qubits sufficiently close to the horizon the late-time evolution takes a simple universal form that depends only on the near-horizon geometry, assuming only that the quantum field is prepared in a Hadamard-type state (such as the Hartle-Hawking or Unruh vacua). When the redshifted energy difference, ω∞, between the two qubit states (as measured by a distant observer looking at the detector) satisfies ω∞rs ≪ 1 this universal evolution becomes Markovian and describes an exponential approach to equilibrium with the Hawking radiation, with the off-diagonal and diagonal components of the qubit density matrix relaxing to equilibrium with different characteristic times, both of order rs/g2.
Comparison of the diagnostic performance and impact on management of 18F-FDG PET/CT and whole-body MRI in multiple myeloma
Authors: Westerland Olwen , Amlani Ashik , Kelly-Morland Christian , Fraczek Michal , Bailey Katherine , Gleeson Mary , El-Najjar Inas , Streetly Matthew , Bassett Paul , Cook Gary J. R. , Goh Vicky ,   on behalf of the Myeloma Imaging Research Group at Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospital, London and King’s College London, Bell Joanna , Dregely Isabel , Green Adrian , Gu Renyang , Haberland Ulrike , Jeljeli Sami , Kazmi Majid , Muhidun Nessa , Natas Sarah , Neji Radhouene , Padormo Francesco , Spence John , Stirling J. James , Subesinghe Manil , Verma Hema , Viney Zaid
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Comparative data on the impact of imaging on management is lacking for multiple myeloma. This study compared the diagnostic performance and impact on management of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) and whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (WBMRI) in treatment-naive myeloma.

Methods

Forty-six patients undergoing 18F-FDG PET/CT and WBMRI were reviewed by a nuclear medicine physician and radiologist, respectively, for the presence of myeloma bone disease. Blinded clinical and imaging data were reviewed by two haematologists in consensus and management recorded following clinical data ± 18F-FDG PET/CT or WBMRI. Bone disease was defined using International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) criteria and a clinical reference standard. Per-patient sensitivity for lesion detection was established. McNemar test compared management based on clinical assessment ± 18F-FDG PET/CT or WBMRI.

Results

Sensitivity for bone lesions was 69.6% (32/46) for 18F-FDG PET/CT (54.3% (25/46) for PET component alone) and 91.3% (42/46) for WBMRI. 27/46 (58.7%) of cases were concordant. In 19/46 patients (41.3%) WBMRI detected more focal bone lesions than 18F-FDG PET/CT. Based on clinical data alone, 32/46 (69.6%) patients would have been treated. Addition of 18F-FDG PET/CT to clinical data increased this to 40/46 (87.0%) patients (p = 0.02); and WBMRI to clinical data to 43/46 (93.5%) patients (p = 0.002). The difference in treatment decisions was not statistically significant between 18F-FDG PET/CT and WBMRI (p = 0.08).

Conclusion

Compared to 18F-FDG PET/CT, WBMRI had a higher per patient sensitivity for bone disease. However, treatment decisions were not statistically different and either modality would be appropriate in initial staging, depending on local availability and expertise.
The Correlation Between Fissureless Technique and Prolonged Air Leak for Patients Undergoing Video‐Assisted Right Upper Lobectomy
Authors: Murakami Kotaro , Maehara Sachio , Shimada Yoshihisa , Makino Yojiro , Hagiwara Masaru , Kakihana Masatoshi , Kajiwara Naohiro , Ohira Tatsuo , Ikeda Norihiko
Published: January 2021

Purpose

We aimed to assess the clinical usefulness of the fissureless technique, which avoided dissection of the lung parenchyma over the pulmonary artery, in preventing prolonged air leak after video‐assisted thoracic surgery right upper lobectomy (VATS RUL).

Methods

Perioperative outcomes, including the frequency of prolonged air leak after fissureless technique or traditional fissure dissection technique, which dissected the lung parenchyma through the fissure, were compared in patients who underwent VATS RUL (n = 213) between January 2016 and March 2020. We adopted our fissural grade to evaluate the degree of fused fissure ranging from II (light incomplete fissure) to IV (severe incomplete fissure), which covered all fissural grades in 213 patients.

Results

Fifty‐four and 159 patients underwent fissureless and traditional techniques, respectively. Significant differences in the incidence of prolonged air leak (p = 0.037), time to air leak cessation (p = 0.047), and duration of chest tube placement (p = 0.017) were observed between fissureless and traditional technique groups. On multivariable analysis, traditional technique (p = 0.005), and greater fissural grade (III vs II, p = 0.020; IV vs II, p = 0.001) were significantly associated with prolonged air leak.

Conclusions

Fissureless technique during VATS RUL can be a superior alternative to the traditional technique to prevent prolonged air leak in treating incomplete fissures.
Shoulder scaption is dependent on the behavior of the different partitions of the infraspinatus muscle
Authors: Hoshikawa Kyosuke , Yuri Takuma , Giambini Hugo , Kiyoshige Yoshiro
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate if the three partitions (superior, middle, and inferior partitions) of the infraspinatus muscle previously described in anatomical studies will present different behavior during scapular plane abduction(scaption)as described using shear-wave elastography, especially during initial range of motion.

Methods

Eight volunteers held their arm against gravity 15° intervals from 30° to 150° in scaption. Shear-wave elastography was implemented at each position to measure shear modulus at rest and during muscle contraction, as a surrogate for muscle stiffness, of each partition. Muscle activity was defined as the difference in stiffness values between the resting positions and those during muscle contraction (ΔE = stiffness at contraction—stiffness at rest).

Results

The activity value for the middle partition was 25.1 ± 10.8 kPa at 30° and increased up to 105° (52.2 ± 10.8 kPa), with a subsequent decrease at larger angle positions (p < .001). The superior partition showed a flatter and constant behavior with smaller activity values except at higher angles (p < .001). Peak activity values for the superior partition were observed at 135° (23.0 ± 12.0 kPa). Increase activity for inferior partition began at 60° and showed a peak at 135° (p < .001; 32.9 ± 13.8 kPa).

Conclusion

Stiffness measured using shear-wave elastography in each partition of the infraspinatus muscle demonstrated different behavior between these partitions during scaption. The middle partition generated force throughout scaption, while the superior and inferior partitions exerted force at end range.
Toric phakic IOLs in keratoconus—evaluation of preoperative parameters on the outcome of phakic anterior chamber lens implantation in patients with keratoconus
Authors: Fischinger Isaak R. , Wendelstein Jascha , Tetz Kristin , Bolz Matthias , Tetz Manfred R.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the influence of the type of the keratectasia and preoperative keratometry readings on the efficacy of implantation of iris-fixated phakic anterior chamber intraocular lenses (pIOL) in patients with keratoconus.

Methods

In this retrospective study, iris-fixated pIOLs (Artisan/Artiflex (Ophtec®), Verisyse/Veriflex (AMO®)) were implanted in 38 eyes of 22 patients with stable keratoconus. Thirty-six eyes underwent corneal crosslinking (CXL) prior to the lens implantation. The refractive outcome was evaluated 6 weeks postoperatively and the influence of preoperative refraction and topo- and tomographical factors were analyzed.

Results

The mean postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVApost) was 0.25 ± 0.15 logMAR and was not statistically different from the mean preoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVApre), which was 0.24 ± 0.13 logMAR. Twenty-seven eyes (71%) reached UDVApost/CDVApre ≥ 1 (efficacy index), whereas patients with PMD-like ectasia (n = 14) showed significantly (p = 0.003) higher efficacy index (100%) than patients diagnosed with keratoconus (n = 24) (54%). Higher eccentricity of the maximum posterior elevation showed a significant beneficial influence on the efficacy index (p = 0.021). Furthermore, a higher Amsler-Krumeich stage and preoperative MAE were correlated with a worse UDVApost. The mean absolute spherical equivalent was significantly decreased from 5.71 ± 4.96 D to 1.25 ± 1.20 D (p < 0.001). No significant difference was found in endothelial cell count.

Conclusion

The results indicate that the implantation of phakic iris-fixated anterior chamber IOLs is a reasonable refractive option for patients with keratoconus. Keratoconus patients with a pellucidal marginal degeneration (PMD)-like appearance ectasia seem to benefit most from such procedures.
Waveguide divider design based on null of electric field
Authors: Zappelli Leonardo
Published: January 2021

Nowadays, the design of dividers is based on electromagnetic software that optimizes some geometric parameters to obtain the required performance. The choice of the geometry of the discontinuities contained in the divider and of the optimization initial point is quite critical to satisfy the divider requirements. In the last years, it is quite rare to find in the literature a theoretical approach helping the designers in the choice of the divider geometry. Helpful suggestion can derive by the analysis of the electric field in a trial divider that satisfies power division among the output ports in a thin band. In fact, the electric field null can be filled with metallic septa that ensure the same behavior at any frequency. The optimization of the septa position/form with numerical electromagnetic software permits to obtain divider with large bandwidth. A further analysis of the electric field null in the divider permits to add lateral metallic septa that further enlarge the transmission band. Finally, the design of an input matching network increases the transmitted power to the desired value.
Expanding the Nude SCID/CID Phenotype Associated with FOXN1 Homozygous, Compound Heterozygous, or Heterozygous Mutations
Authors: Giardino Giuliana , Sharapova Svetlana O. , Ciznar Peter , Dhalla Fatima , Maragliano Luca , Radha Rama Devi Akella , Islamoglu Candan , Ikinciogullari Aydan , Haskologlu Sule , Dogu Figen , Hanna-Wakim Rima , Dbaibo Ghassan , Chou Janet , Cirillo Emilia , Borzacchiello Carla , Kreins Alexandra Y. , Worth Austen , Rota Ioanna A. , Marques José G. , Sayitoglu Muge , Firtina Sinem , Mahdi Moaffaq , Geha Raif , Neven Bénédicte , Sousa Ana E. , Benfenati Fabio , Hollander Georg A. , Davies E. Graham , Pignata Claudio
Published: January 2021

Human nude SCID is a rare autosomal recessive inborn error of immunity (IEI) characterized by congenital athymia, alopecia, and nail dystrophy. Few cases have been reported to date. However, the recent introduction of newborn screening for IEIs and high-throughput sequencing has led to the identification of novel and atypical cases. Moreover, immunological alterations have been recently described in patients carrying heterozygous mutations. The aim of this paper is to describe the extended phenotype associated with FOXN1 homozygous, compound heterozygous, or heterozygous mutations. We collected clinical and laboratory information of a cohort of 11 homozygous, 2 compound heterozygous, and 5 heterozygous patients with recurrent severe infections. All, except one heterozygous patient, had signs of CID or SCID. Nail dystrophy and alopecia, that represent the hallmarks of the syndrome, were not always present, while almost 50% of the patients developed Omenn syndrome. One patient with hypomorphic compound heterozygous mutations had a late-onset atypical phenotype. A SCID-like phenotype was observed in 4 heterozygous patients coming from the same family. A spectrum of clinical manifestations may be associated with different mutations. The severity of the clinical phenotype likely depends on the amount of residual activity of the gene product, as previously observed for other SCID-related genes. The severity of the manifestations in this heterozygous family may suggest a mechanism of negative dominance of the specific mutation or the presence of additional mutations in noncoding regions.
A general branch-and-bound framework for continuous global multiobjective optimization
Authors: Eichfelder Gabriele , Kirst Peter , Meng Laura , Stein Oliver
Published: January 2021

Current generalizations of the central ideas of single-objective branch-and-bound to the multiobjective setting do not seem to follow their train of thought all the way. The present paper complements the various suggestions for generalizations of partial lower bounds and of overall upper bounds by general constructions for overall lower bounds from partial lower bounds, and by the corresponding termination criteria and node selection steps. In particular, our branch-and-bound concept employs a new enclosure of the set of nondominated points by a union of boxes. On this occasion we also suggest a new discarding test based on a linearization technique. We provide a convergence proof for our general branch-and-bound framework and illustrate the results with numerical examples.