bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent Distance Learning Systems
Authors: Latinović Branko , Vasiljević Dragan
Published: September 2021

Models used for creating intelligent systems based on artificial non-chromic networks indicate to the teachers which educational as well as teaching activities should be corrected. Activities that require to be corrected are performed at established distance learning systems and thus can be: lectures, assignments, tests, grading, competitions, directed leisure activities, and case studies. Results regarding data processing in artificial neural networks specifically indicate a specific activity that needs to be maintained, promoted, or changed in order to improve students’ abilities and achievements. The developed models are also very useful to students who can understand their achievements much better as well as to develop their skills for future competencies. These models indicate that students’ abilities are far more developed in those who use some of the mentioned distance learning systems in comparison with the students who learn due to the traditional classes system.
Scaling complexity comparison of an ACO-based routing algorithm used as an IoT network core
Authors: Djukanovic Goran , Popovic Goran , Kanellopoulos Dimitris
Published: September 2021

This paper proposes a routing method that is based on an Ant Colony Algorithm (ACO) for minimizing energy consumption in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). The routing method is used as the backbone of the Internet of Things (IoT) platform. It also considers the critical design issues of a WSN, such as the energy constraint of sensor nodes, network load balancing, and sensor density in the field. Special attention is paid to the impact of network scaling on the performance of the ACO-based routing algorithm.
Self-Induced Stomal Obstruction Post-LAGB – A Case Report
Authors: SALATI SAJAD AHMAD
Published: September 2021

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is an effective surgical tool for the management of morbid obesity. Many complications are associated with this operation. This case report presents a rarely encountered complication following LAGB wherein a patient self-induced stomal obstruction. The patient was managed on outpatient basis by band deflation. This case stresses on the importance of proper information sharing with the patients who undergo surgical operations.
Diverse inhibitory projections from the cerebellar interposed nucleus
Authors: Judd Elena N , Lewis Samantha M , Person Abigail L
Published: September 2021

The cerebellum consists of parallel circuit modules that contribute to diverse behaviors, spanning motor to cognitive. Recent work employing cell-type-specific tracing has identified circumscribed output channels of the cerebellar nuclei (CbN) that could confer tight functional specificity. These studies have largely focused on excitatory projections of the CbN, however, leaving open the question of whether inhibitory neurons also constitute multiple output modules. We mapped output and input patterns to intersectionally restricted cell types of the interposed and adjacent interstitial nuclei in mice. In contrast to the widespread assumption of primarily excitatory outputs and restricted inferior olive-targeting inhibitory output, we found that inhibitory neurons from this region ramified widely within the brainstem, targeting both motor- and sensory-related nuclei, distinct from excitatory output targets. Despite differences in output targeting, monosynaptic rabies tracing revealed largely shared afferents to both cell classes. We discuss the potential novel functional roles for inhibitory outputs in the context of cerebellar theory.
Synaptotagmin 7 is targeted to the axonal plasma membrane through γ-secretase processing to promote synaptic vesicle docking in mouse hippocampal neurons
Authors: Vevea Jason D , Kusick Grant F , Courtney Kevin C , Chen Erin , Watanabe Shigeki , Chapman Edwin R
Published: September 2021

Synaptotagmin 7 (SYT7) has emerged as a key regulator of presynaptic function, but its localization and precise role in the synaptic vesicle cycle remain the subject of debate. Here, we used iGluSnFR to optically interrogate glutamate release, at the single-bouton level, in SYT7KO-dissociated mouse hippocampal neurons. We analyzed asynchronous release, paired-pulse facilitation, and synaptic vesicle replenishment and found that SYT7 contributes to each of these processes to different degrees. ‘Zap-and-freeze’ electron microscopy revealed that a loss of SYT7 diminishes docking of synaptic vesicles after a stimulus and inhibits the recovery of depleted synaptic vesicles after a stimulus train. SYT7 supports these functions from the axonal plasma membrane, where its localization and stability require both γ-secretase-mediated cleavage and palmitoylation. In summary, SYT7 is a peripheral membrane protein that controls multiple modes of synaptic vesicle (SV) exocytosis and plasticity, in part, through enhancing activity-dependent docking of SVs.
Circular RNA repertoires are associated with evolutionarily young transposable elements
Authors: Gruhl Franziska , Janich Peggy , Kaessmann Henrik , Gatfield David
Published: September 2021

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are found across eukaryotes and can function in post-transcriptional gene regulation. Their biogenesis through a circle-forming backsplicing reaction is facilitated by reverse-complementary repetitive sequences promoting pre-mRNA folding. Orthologous genes from which circRNAs arise, overall contain more strongly conserved splice sites and exons than other genes, yet it remains unclear to what extent this conservation reflects purifying selection acting on the circRNAs themselves. Our analyses of circRNA repertoires from five species representing three mammalian lineages (marsupials, eutherians: rodents, primates) reveal that surprisingly few circRNAs arise from orthologous exonic loci across all species. Even the circRNAs from orthologous loci are associated with young, recently active and species-specific transposable elements, rather than with common, ancient transposon integration events. These observations suggest that many circRNAs emerged convergently during evolution – as a byproduct of splicing in orthologs prone to transposon insertion. Overall, our findings argue against widespread functional circRNA conservation.
Developmental change in prefrontal cortex recruitment supports the emergence of value-guided memory
Authors: Nussenbaum Kate , Hartley Catherine A
Published: September 2021

Prioritizing memory for valuable information can promote adaptive behavior across the lifespan, but it is unclear how the neurocognitive mechanisms that enable the selective acquisition of useful knowledge develop. Here, using a novel task coupled with functional magnetic resonance imaging, we examined how children, adolescents, and adults (N = 90) learn from experience what information is likely to be rewarding, and modulate encoding and retrieval processes accordingly. We found that the ability to use learned value signals to selectively enhance memory for useful information strengthened throughout childhood and into adolescence. Encoding and retrieval of high- vs. low-value information was associated with increased activation in striatal and prefrontal regions implicated in value processing and cognitive control. Age-related increases in value-based lateral prefrontal cortex modulation mediated the relation between age and memory selectivity. Our findings demonstrate that developmental increases in the strategic engagement of the prefrontal cortex support the emergence of adaptive memory.
Struo2: efficient metagenome profiling database construction for ever-expanding microbial genome datasets
Authors: Youngblut Nicholas D. , Ley Ruth E.
Published: September 2021

Mapping metagenome reads to reference databases is the standard approach for assessing microbial taxonomic and functional diversity from metagenomic data. However, public reference databases often lack recently generated genomic data such as metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), which can limit the sensitivity of read-mapping approaches. We previously developed the Struo pipeline in order to provide a straight-forward method for constructing custom databases; however, the pipeline does not scale well enough to cope with the ever-increasing number of publicly available microbial genomes. Moreover, the pipeline does not allow for efficient database updating as new data are generated. To address these issues, we developed Struo2, which is >3.5 fold faster than Struo at database generation and can also efficiently update existing databases. We also provide custom Kraken2, Bracken, and HUMAnN3 databases that can be easily updated with new genomes and/or individual gene sequences. Efficient database updating, coupled with our pre-generated databases, enables “assembly-enhanced” profiling, which increases database comprehensiveness via inclusion of native genomic content. Inclusion of newly generated genomic content can greatly increase database comprehensiveness, especially for understudied biomes, which will enable more accurate assessments of microbiome diversity.
Assessment of Association between Gas Flaring and Prevalence of Diseases: Delineation of Opinion from Perception
Authors: Obi Nkemdilim I. , Bwititi Phillip T. , Adjene Josiah O. , U. Nwose Ezekiel
Published: September 2021

Background: Pollutants are released into the atmosphere by gas flaring, and these cause a range of health problems, including heart disease and respiratory disorders. This article assesses the opinion and perception of the community regarding association between gas flaring and prevalence of diseases.

Methodology: This research followed a descriptive quantitative approach. Purposive survey using 2 Likert scale questionnaires was adopted, and the first questionnaire collected data on distance to gas flare site, health status and family health history, amongst others. The second collected data on perception and knowledge-based opinions regarding association and correlation. Summated Likert scale were collated and descriptive and correlation analysis between distance to gas flare site and number of diseases in respondents and their families were done.

Results: In this purposive survey, there is no correlation between nearness to gas flare and prevalence of diseases. There appears no difference in communities proximal to flare sites compared to non-host communities farther from site. Multivariate analysis further shows that no statistically significant difference between groups, except in comparison of perceptions. Conclusion: This investigation shows a variation from previous observation in this series i.e. that distance to gas flare site is a potential factor influencing community members’ perception about their health impact, but the surveyed opinion of healthcare workers differs. This implies that nearness to gas flare sites mediate perception of negative health impact and this calls for further research to delineate perception from knowledge-based opinion.
Self‐Driving Platform for Metal Nanoparticle Synthesis: Combining Microfluidics and Machine Learning
Authors: Tao Huachen , Wu Tianyi , Kheiri Sina , Aldeghi Matteo , Aspuru‐Guzik Alán , Kumacheva Eugenia
Published: September 2021

Many applications of inorganic nanoparticles (NPs), including photocatalysis, photovoltaics, chemical and biochemical sensing, and theranostics, are governed by NP optical properties. Exploration and identification of reaction conditions for the synthesis of NPs with targeted spectroscopic characteristics is a time‐, labor‐, and resource‐intensive task, as it involves the optimization of multiple interdependent reaction conditions. Integration of machine learning (ML) and microfluidics (MF) offers accelerated identification and optimization of reaction conditions for NP synthesis. Here, an autonomous ML‐driven, oscillatory MF platform for the synthesis of NPs is reported. The platform utilized multiple recipes and reaction times for the synthesis of NPs with different dimensions, conducted spectroscopic NP characterization, and employed ML approaches to analyze multiple yet prioritized spectroscopic NP characteristics, and identified reaction conditions for the synthesis of NPs with targeted optical properties. The platform is also used to develop an understanding of the relationship between reaction conditions and NP properties. This study shows the strong potential of ML‐driven oscillatory MF platforms in materials science and paves the way for automated NP development.
Chiral transfer‐dictated self‐assembly of chiral block copolymers
Authors: Li Hao , Xiong Bijin , Xu Jiangping , Zhu Jintao
Published: September 2021

Chiral structures not only exist in nature widely, they also emerge in artificial systems, attracting myriad attentions due to their excellent mechanical, optical, electrical, and magnetic properties. Self‐assembly of chiral block copolymers (BCPs*), where at least one block consists of chiral centers, represents a facile strategy to form helical/spiral/network structures with a controlled chirality. Usually, morphological chirality of BCP* assemblies was closely associated with molecular and conformational chirality of the chiral block. Generally, chiral assemblies arose from molecular chirality of BCPs*, transferring up in the assembly process and dictated the chirality at a higher hierarchical level. In contrast, notwithstanding similar assemblies could be observed from achiral BCPs under certain conditions, both left‐ and right‐handed ones were usually observed simultaneously without a preference. Moreover, unique feature of BCPs* to access to controllable chiral assemblies affords an opportunity to prepare advanced functional materials. Herein, we dedicated a review on assembly of BCPs* into chiral assemblies in bulk/films, selective solvents, and confined spaces. The chiral transfer process in these assembly scenarios were discussed and highlighted as a key contributor to morphological chirality. Functionalities and representative applications of BCP* assemblies were also described, followed by present challenges and future prospects of BCP* self‐assembly.
Extrapolative Bayesian Optimization with Gaussian Process and Neural Network Ensemble Surrogate Models
Authors: Lim Yee-Fun , Ng Chee Koon , Vaitesswar U.S. , Hippalgaonkar Kedar
Published: September 2021

Bayesian optimization (BO) has emerged as the algorithm of choice for guiding the selection of experimental parameters in automated active learning driven high throughput experiments in materials science and chemistry. Previous studies suggest that optimization performance of the typical surrogate model in the BO algorithm, Gaussian processes (GPs), may be limited due to its inability to handle complex datasets. Herein, various surrogate models for BO, including GPs and neural network ensembles (NNEs), are investigated. Two materials datasets of different complexity with different properties are used, to compare the performance of GP and NNE—the first is the compressive strength of concrete (8 inputs and 1 target), and the second is a simulated high‐dimensional dataset of thermoelectric properties of inorganic materials (22 inputs and 1 target). While NNEs can converge faster toward optimum values, GPs with optimized kernels are able to ultimately achieve the best evaluated values after 100 iterations, even for the most complex dataset. This surprising result is contrary to expectations. It is believed that these findings shed new light on the understanding of surrogate models for BO, and can help accelerate the inverse design of new materials with better structural and functional performance.
Controlled release of thiram pesticide from polycaprolactone micro and nanofibrous mat matrix
Authors: Pouladchang Azimeh , Tavanai Hossein , Morshed Mohammad , Khajehali Jahangir , Shamsabadi Amir Shahin
Published: September 2021

Polymeric nanofibers as a matrix for controlled release of pesticides has gained importance alongside controlled drug release. Electrospinning of thiram pesticide incorporated polycaprolactone micro and nanofibers and thereof release characteristics are reported. With only chloroform as the solvent for polycaprolactone, thiram incorporated microfibers could be electrospun. To electrospin polycaprolactone nanofibers containing thiram, methanol was added as a co‐solvent. Regular and beadless microfibers (mean diameter = 3.7–4.5 μm) and nanofibers (mean diameter = 29–481 nm) were successfully electrospun. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy showed that thiram was held by the polycaprolactone matrix physically. X‐ray diffraction analysis showed that thiram could not reorganize its crystals in the fibrous matrix. The amount of thiram pesticide loaded in micro and nanofibers was measured to be in the range of 42.5–150 and 26.4–163.4 mg.g−1, respectively. Microfibers showed a higher release rate with lower amounts of the loaded thiram. Nanofibrous matrices showed an opposite trend.
Gross morphological and morphometric study of the upper respiratory system of the African giant rat (Cricetomys gambianus, Waterhouse 1840)
Authors: Ogbonnaya Obioma , Ibe Chikera Samuel , Ikpegbu Ekele
Published: September 2021

The nose is a structurally and functionally complex organ in the upper respiratory tract. It not only serves as the principal organ for the sense of smell, but also functions to efficiently filter, warm, and humidify inhaled air before the air enters the more delicate distal tracheobronchial airways and alveolar parenchyma of the lungs. Despite the volume of published studies on the biology of rodents, there is no information on the gross upper respiratory morphology of the African giant rat (AGR) in the available literature. Hence, this study aimed to examine the anatomy of the turbinates, their meatuses, and the morphometry of the nasal cavity. The following were found and reported in this study: (a) There were three nasal conchae in AGR: the nasoturbinate, which was the largest; the ethmoturbinate, which was composed of one well‐developed ectoturbinate and three well‐developed endoturbinates; and the maxilloturbinate, which was fusiform, short, and branched. (b) Three major meatuses were observed: the dorsal nasal meatus, which was the longest and widest; the middle nasal meatus, which was without limbs but had a deep oval caudal recess; and the ventral nasal meatus, which directly continued caudally into the nasopharyngeal meatus. (c) Four ethmoturbinates with four slit‐like meatuses were observed, each with dorsal and ventral limbs; the first contacted the middle nasal meatus but not the nasopharyngeal meatus. (d) There were three paranasal sinuses: one sphenoid, two frontal, and two palatine sinuses. The data obtained are relevant to pathologists and eco‐morphologists, considering the burrowing habitat and behaviors of AGR, and provide baseline data for more investigative studies.
Preparation, Characterization, and Evaluation of the Anticorrosion Performance of Submicron/Nanocarbon from Jute Sticks
Authors: Basha Shaik Inayath , Aziz Md. Abdul , Maslehuddin M. , Ahmad Shamsad
Published: September 2021

Jute stick, one of the most commonly and abundantly available agricultural waste product, was converted to a value‐added submicron/nano jute carbon by using pyrolysis and high‐energy ball milling techniques. The submicron/nano jute carbon was characterized using FE‐SEM, TEM, EDS, XRD, XPS and Raman spectroscopy. The anticorrosive performance of the submicron/nano jute carbon was investigated through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and salt spray techniques, on mild steel plates coated with a mixture of epoxy resin and the submicron/nano jute carbon. The electrochemical impedance of the steel coated with the composite coating was two orders of magnitudes higher than that of the specimen coated with neat epoxy. Consequently, the corrosion rate of specimens coated with composite coating was 13–20 times higher than that of steel coated with neat epoxy coating. The salt spray results also indicate an improvement in the corrosion resistance performance of the composite coating compared to the neat epoxy. The uniform distribution of the submicron/nano jute carbon particles in the epoxy resin improved the denseness of the composite coating by acting as a barrier against the diffusion of chloride, moisture, and oxygen, thus, improving the corrosion resistance of the developed coating.
Preparation of a Water‐Soluble ZnXCd1‐XS Quantum Dot Photocatalyst at Room Temperature Assisted by 3‐Mercaptopropionic Acid
Authors: Li Shenjie , Gong Xiaoyu , Yu Minghui , Li Zhiqiang , Chen Yanyan , Wang Shuang , Yu Hao , Shao Hongyu
Published: September 2021

An effective path to synthesize ZnxCd1‐xS quantum dots (ZCS QDs) in aqueous phase at room temperature has remained relatively unexplored. Here, we developed a room‐temperature, aqueous‐phase approach to ZCS QDs, using 3‐mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) to adjust the pH of the reaction precursor solution to regulate the competition between sulfur source and hydroxyl group, and realize the large‐scale preparation of water‐soluble ZCS QDs photocatalyst at room temperature. Without recombination with other materials, and only by regulating the ratio of pH, excess sulfur sources and Zn/Cd, the photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) can reach 98% within 1 min, showing high photocatalytic activity. ZCS QDs show high stability and recoverability, and are expected to be able to deal with organic pollutants on a large scale. This study provides a new idea for the preparation of other QDs at room temperature.
Buchenholzdübel zur Schubübertragung in Brettstapel‐Beton‐Verbunddecken
Authors: Mikoschek Michael , Colling François , Guggenberger Michael
Published: September 2021

Üblicherweise wird bei Brettstapel‐Beton‐Verbunddecken der Verbund über Kerven und/oder metallische Verbindungsmittel ausgeführt. Eine neuartige, stahlfreie Verbundlösung sieht die Schubübertragung durch Buchenholzdübel bei gleichzeitigem Verzicht auf eine Stahlbewehrung vor. Die Holzprofile werden hierfür an der Oberseite parallel zur Spannrichtung zu trapezförmigen Profilen gefräst und darin die Buchenholzdübel in Querrichtung eingebracht, sodass mit dem Aufbeton ein formschlüssiger Verbund entsteht. Sowohl hinsichtlich der Tragfähigkeit als auch bez. der Nachgiebigkeit des Verbunds wurden experimentelle Untersuchungen dieses neuartigen Holz‐Beton‐Verbundsystems durchgeführt. Bei der Aufnahme der auftretenden Schubkräfte erfahren die Holzprofile eine Lochleibungsbeanspruchung und die Buchenholzdübel eine Scher‐ und Querdruckbeanspruchung, wodurch die Verbundsteifigkeit maßgeblich bestimmt wird. Der Haftverbund und die Reibung zwischen Holz und Beton können jedoch das Verbundverhalten deutlich beeinflussen. Die Tragfähigkeit des Verbunds wird im Wesentlichen dadurch bestimmt, dass die punktuelle Belastung der unbewehrten Betondeckschicht an den Dübeln zum Abscheren bzw. Aufspalten des Betons führt.
Identification and characterization of metamorphic proteins: Current and future perspectives
Authors: Das Madhurima , Chen Nanhao , LiWang Andy , Wang Lee‐Ping
Published: September 2021

Proteins that can reversibly alternate between distinctly different folds under native conditions are described as being metamorphic. The “metamorphome” is the collection of all metamorphic proteins in the proteome, but it remains unknown the extent to which the proteome is populated by this class of proteins. We propose that uncovering the metamorphome will require a synergy of computational screening of protein sequences to identify potential metamorphic behavior and validation through experimental techniques. This perspective discusses computational and experimental approaches that are currently used to predict and characterize metamorphic proteins as well as the need for developing improved methodologies. Since metamorphic proteins act as molecular switches, understanding their properties and behavior could lead to novel applications of these proteins as sensors in biological or environmental contexts.
Potent therapeutic targets for treatment of Alzheimer's disease: Amyloid degrading enzymes
Authors: Choi Hang , Kim Eungchan , Choi Jae Yoon , Park Eunsik , Lee Hyuck Jin
Published: September 2021

In an aging society in the world, dementia that leads to pain in patients and their families has become a common disease in our lives. Among dementia, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most commonly shown disease. Various causes of the disease have been proposed and amyloid hypothesis insists that the toxic amyloid‐β (Aβ) species could be the major risk factor of the onset and progression of AD. In this perspective, clearance of Aβ species from the brain by regulating the activity of amyloid degrading enzymes (ADE), including neprilysin and matrix metalloproteinases, could be a potent treatment for AD. Therefore, the structures and functions of these enzymes along with biological molecules in the brain would be important to understand the pathogenesis of AD and develop an effective medication for the disease. In this review, multiple ADE with biological molecules which could affect the activities and/or expression of the enzymes are summarized.
A phase II study of poziotinib in patients with recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lee Ji Hyun , Heo Seong Gu , Ahn Beung‐Chul , Hong Min Hee , Cho Byoung Chul , Lim Sun Min , Kim Hye Ryun
Published: September 2021

Background

In phase I studies, poziotinib has shown meaningful efficacy against various types of cancers. This phase 2 study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of poziotinib in recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M‐HNSCC).

Methods

Overall, 49 patients were enrolled (median age, 62 years; age range, 21–78 years). Patients received a median of two prior treatments including chemotherapy and others and received 12 mg poziotinib orally once daily as part of a 28‐day cycle. The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR), and the secondary endpoints were progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Targeted capture sequencing was performed using available tissues to identify translational biomarkers related to clinical response.

Results

ORR was 22.4%, median PFS was 4.0 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.8–6.2 months), and median OS was 7.6 months (95% CI, 4.4–10.8 months). The most common treatment‐related adverse events were acneiform rash (85%) and mucositis (77%). A grade 3 or higher adverse event was acneiform rash (3%). Targeted capture sequencing was performed in 30 tissue samples. TP53 and PIK3CA were the most frequently mutated genes (43%), followed by CCND1 (33%) and EGFR (30%). Mutations in ERBB2, ERBB3, and ERBB4, which are HER family genes, were observed in 17%, 13%, and 10% samples, respectively. There was no difference in the frequency of somatic mutations in the HER family genes between the clinically benefitted and non‐benefitted groups.

Conclusion

Compared to other pan‐HER inhibitors, poziotinib showed clinically meaningful efficacy in heavily treated R/M‐HNSCC.

Clinical trial registration number.

NCT02216916.
Cytotoxic and α‐Glucosidase Inhibitory Xanthones from Garcinia mckeaniana Leaves and Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Thi Thu Ha Nguyen , Minh Quan Pham , Van Cuong Pham , Van Tuyen Nguyen , Van Kiem Phan , Thanh Tra Nguyen , Le Thi Tu Anh , Litaudon Marc , The Son Ninh
Published: September 2021

A new racemic xanthone, garmckeanin A (1), and eight known analogs 2–9 were isolated from the ethyl acetate (AcOEt) extract of the Vietnamese Garcinia mckeaniana leaves. Their structures were determined by MS and NMR spectral analyses and compared with the literature. The AcOEt extract showed good cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines KB, Lu, Hep‐G2 and MCF7, with IC50 values of 5.40–8.76 μg/mL, and it also possessed α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity, with an IC50 value of 9.17 μg/mL. Garmckeanin A (1) exhibited inhibition of all cancer cell lines, with an IC50 value of 7.3–0.9 μM. Allanxanthone C (5) successfully controlled KB growth, with an IC50 value of 0.54 μM, higher than that of the positive control, ellipticine (IC50 1.22 μM). Norathyriol (8) was a promising α‐glucosidase inhibitor, with an IC50 value of 0.07 μM, much higher than that of the positive control, acarbose (IC50 161.0 μM). The interactions of the potential α‐glucosidase inhibitors with the C‐ and N‐terminal domains of human intestinal α‐glucosidase were also investigated by molecular docking study. The results indicated that bannaxanthone D (2), garcinone E (4), bannaxanthone E (6), and norathyriol (8) exhibit higher binding affinity to the C‐terminal than to the N‐terminal domain through essential residues in the active sites. In particular, compound 8 could be assumed to be the most potent mixed inhibitor.
A non‐cytotoxic regimen of decitabine to treat refractory T‐cell large granular lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Zawit Misam , Gurnari Carmelo , Pagliuca Simona , Awada Hassan , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P. , Saunthararajah Yogen
Published: September 2021

We report on a novel, successful, non‐cytotoxic therapy to treat multiply‐refractory T‐LGL in an elderly patient.
Transient lymphadenopathy during intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) in a patient with pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: Foulad Delila Pouldar , Rigas Michael , Piracha Fawad , Gupta Meeta , Nguyen Maisie , Grando Sergei A. , Memon Shehla
Published: September 2021

This is the first case of transient cervical lymphadenopathy as an adverse event during IVIg infusion. IVIg plays a vital role in the treatment of many dermatological conditions and identification of adverse events can facilitate patient counseling.
Acute appendicitis secondary to hypertriglyceridemia‐induced acute pancreatitis: A case report
Authors: Kadel Dhruba , Chaulagain Sabin , Thapa Bikash Raj , Basnet Angela , Bhuju Shashinda
Published: September 2021

Hypertriglyceridemia led acute pancreatitis secreted exudative fluid tacked to the right iliac fossa may cause irritation of retroperitoneum leading to acute periappendicular inflammation and acute appendicitis.
Broad ligament pregnancy – A rare and challenging diagnosis
Authors: Sadłecki Paweł , Grabiec Marek , Walentowicz‐Sadłecka Małgorzata
Published: September 2021

Broad ligament pregnancy is a very rare life‐threatening form of ectopic pregnancy, in which implantation occurs within the peritoneal cavity. The advantages of a laparoscopic approach over a laparotomy in this setting include a reduced estimated blood loss, a shorter operating time, reduced analgesic requirements, shorter hospital stay, and convalescence.
Non‐bacterial thrombotic endocarditis with cryptogenic stroke
Authors: Toyoshima Hirokazu , Nakanura Bun , Tanigawa Motoaki , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Nakanishi Yuki , Sakabe Shigetoshi
Published: September 2021

Negative blood culture and pathological findings are helpful to diagnose non‐bacterial thrombotic endocarditis. The treatment strategy, including lifelong anticoagulation or surgery, should be individualized based on patients' underlying diseases.
Homeowner perceptions of watering restriction scenarios in the Minneapolis–St. Paul metropolitan area
Authors: Barnes Michael R. , Yue Chengyan , Watkins Eric
Published: September 2021

Turfgrass‐dominated residential yardscapes are an important component of urban ecological landscapes. These spaces provide a multitude of benefits both ecological (e.g., water filtration) and social (e.g., recreation). However, yardscapes can require significant amounts of input such as fertilizers, herbicides, and more critically water. Residential outdoor water use has been extensively studied in water‐scarce areas (e.g., southwestern United States) but water supply issues are also beginning to impact previously water‐rich regions. One tool a municipality can use to control water usage is residential watering restrictions. Despite past research on the outcomes of such watering restrictions, few studies have tried to understand the perceptions of how homeowners subject to such restrictions feel about them. The current study addresses two critical gaps: first to understand homeowner perceptions of common watering restriction types and their likelihood to water, and second to expand the geographic scope of water use research by targeting a nonwater‐scarce area. We conducted an online survey of homeowners in the Twin Cities metropolitan area (TCMA) in Minnesota. Overall, homeowners held moderately favorable views towards three theoretical restriction scenarios and were about equally as likely to water across scenarios compared to no restrictions. Attitudes and perceptions of restrictions saving water drove favorability; conversely, the presence of irrigation systems predicted increased watering likelihood across scenarios. Strategies to reduce water use and achieve conservation goals in nonwater‐scarce areas should include assessment of resident perceptions of watering restrictions alongside sustained education campaigns.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Repository Corticotropin Injection Compared With Synthetic ACTH1‐24 Depot and Methylprednisolone in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Poola Nagaraju , Due Bryan , Wright Dale , Brooks Leah R. , Zaman Fahima
Published: September 2021

Repository corticotropin injection (RCI; Acthar Gel) is a naturally sourced complex mixture of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) analogs and other pituitary peptides. This phase 1, single‐center, open‐label, randomized parallel study directly compared the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of RCI and synthetic ACTH1‐24 depot. Methylprednisolone was included to estimate the steroidogenic exposure of RCI and synthetic ACTH1‐24 depot when used to treat nephrotic syndrome. A total of 48 healthy subjects aged 18 to 50 years were randomly assigned 1:1:1 to RCI (80 IU subcutaneously twice weekly on study days 1 and 4), synthetic ACTH1‐24 depot (1 mg subcutaneously twice weekly on study days 1 and 4), or methylprednisolone (32 mg orally once daily on study days 1 through 6). After 2 doses, RCI induced about 5‐fold lower free cortisol exposure and an estimated 4‐fold lower steroidogenic exposure than synthetic ACTH1‐24 depot. The lower endogenous cortisol response of RCI was achieved despite higher observed mean plasma concentrations of N25‐deamidated porcine ACTH1‐39 (the pharmacokinetic marker for RCI) than of ACTH1‐24. The different pharmacodynamic properties demonstrated by RCI and synthetic ACTH1‐24 depot in this study suggest that these products in the ACTH class are not interchangeable.
Performance modeling of graphics processing unit application using static and dynamic analysis
Authors: Alavani Gargi , Sarkar Santonu
Published: September 2021

Graphics processing units (GPUs) have become an integral part of high‐performance computing to achieve an exascale performance. Understanding and estimating GPU performance is crucial for developers to design performance‐driven as well as energy‐efficient applications for a given architecture. This work presents a model developed using a static analysis of CUDA code to predict the execution time of NVIDIA GPU kernels without the need for running it. Here a PTX code is statically analyzed to extract instruction features, control flow, and data dependence. We propose a scheduling algorithm that satisfies resource reservation constraints to schedule these instructions in threads across streaming multiprocessors (SMs). We use dynamic analysis to build a set of memory access penalty models and use these models in conjunction with the scheduling information to estimate the execution time of the code. We present the experimental results which support that this approach works across architectures of NVIDIA GPUs. We first tested our model on two Kepler machines, where the mean percentage error (MPE)/mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) was 8.88%/28.3% for Tesla K20 and 5.66%/29.4% for Quadro K4200. We further tested the model on Maxwell and Pascal architectures and recorded the MPEs/MAPEs to be 10.64%/47.8% and %/28.5%, respectively.
Improved single shot multibox detector target detection method based on deep feature fusion
Authors: Bai Dongxu , Sun Ying , Tao Bo , Tong Xiliang , Xu Manman , Jiang Guozhang , Chen Baojia , Cao Yongcheng , Sun Nannan , Li Zeshen
Published: September 2021

The feature layers of different layers in the single shot multibox detector (SSD) are independently used as the input of the classification network, so it is easy to detect the same object. This article proposes an improved SSD model based on deep feature fusion. In the SSD algorithm, the deep feature fusion between the target detection layer and its adjacent feature layer is used, including convolution kernels and pooling kernels of different sizes, down‐sampling of low‐level features and up‐sampling of deconvolution of high‐level features. The network is improved by combining the target frame recommendation strategy in the SSD algorithm and the frame regression algorithm. The experimental results show that the improved SSD algorithm improves the detection accuracy and detection rate of the target, and the effect is more obvious for the relatively small‐scale target.
Ex Vivo Expansion and CRISPR‐Cas9 Genome Editing of Primary Human Natural Killer Cells
Authors: Huang Rih‐Sheng , Lai Min‐Chi , Lin Steven
Published: September 2021

Natural killer (NK) cells are potent innate immune cells that provide the surveillance and elimination of infected, stressed, and malignant cells. The unique immune recognition mechanisms and functions of NK cells make them an attractive cell type for immunology research and adoptive immunotherapy. However, primary NK cells are challenging to culture ex vivo and lack efficient genetic tools, hindering the research of NK cells and the development of NK cell therapeutics. Here we describe methods for the freeze‐thaw process, feeder‐free ex vivo expansion, CRISPR‐Cas9 genome editing, and functional characterizations of primary human NK cells. Our protocol enables ∼30‐fold and ∼2000‐fold average expansion rates from 1 × 107 cryopreserved NK cells in 14 and 28 days, respectively. We also detail methods for CRISPR gene knockout and knockin by nucleofection of Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (RNP) and DNA repair templates. Gene knockout by Cas9 RNP nucleofection can be multiplexed to simultaneously target three genes. The CRISPR‐edited cells can be cryopreserved and rethawed with high viability for future studies. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Thawing of natural killer cells

Basic Protocol 2: Ex vivo expansion of natural killer cells

Basic Protocol 3: Cryopreservation of expanded natural killer cells

Basic Protocol 4: Characterization of natural killer cells: Flow cytometry and surface marker analysis

Basic Protocol 5: Cytotoxicity and degranulation assays

Basic Protocol 6: Preparation of homology‐directed repair templates

Basic Protocol 7: Nucleofection of CRISPR‐Cas9 ribonucleoproteins

Basic Protocol 8: Genotyping of gene‐edited natural killer cells

Basic Protocol 9: Phenotyping of gene‐edited natural killer cells
Numerical Investigation of Cone Shape Grooved DS Block to Improve the mc–Si Ingot Quality
Authors: Gurusamy Aravindan , Manikam Srinivasan , Perumalsamy Ramasmy
Published: September 2021

Multicrystalline silicon solar cells occupy 62% in crystalline silicon solar cell production. It is grown by the directional solidification process. Solidification control has a vital role in directional solidification process. Cone shape groove is made in the directional solidification block to enhance the outgoing heat flux in the center region than the peripheral region. Five directional solidification furnaces are simulated for making a multicrystalline silicon ingot. First furnace is the conventional furnace, the second furnace has 30 mm × 85 mm groove block, the third furnace has 40 mm × 85 mm groove block, the fourth furnace has 50 mm × 85 mm groove block and the fifth furnace has 60 mm × 85 mm groove block. The von Mises stress in the maximum volume of the conventional and modified grown ingots are below the range of critical value. In conventional case 7% of the ingot volume is above critical stress value and in the modified cases 2.5% of the ingot volume is above critical stress value. If axial and radial temperature gradient is combined in the 50 mm × 85 mm groove block leads to better results.
Tuning Lithiophilicity and Stability of 3D Conductive Scaffold via Covalent Ag‐S Bond for High‐Performance Lithium Metal Anode
Authors: Li Xue Liang , Huang Shaozhuan , Yan Dong , Zhang Jian , Fang Daliang , Lim Yew Von , Wang Ye , Li Tian Chen , Li Yifan , Guo Lu , Yang Hui Ying
Published: September 2021

Li metal anode holds great promise to realize high‐energy battery systems. However, the safety issue and limited lifetime caused by the uncontrollable growth of Li dendrites hinder its commercial application. Herein, an interlayer‐bridged 3D lithiophilic rGO‐Ag‐S‐CNT composite is proposed to guide uniform and stable Li plating/stripping. The 3D lithiophilic rGO‐Ag‐S‐CNT host is fabricated by incorporating Ag‐modified reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with S‐doped carbon nanotube (CNT), where the rGO and CNT are closely connected via robust Ag‐S covalent bond. This strong Ag‐S bond could enhance the structural stability and electrical connection between rGO and CNT, significantly improving the electrochemical kinetics and uniformity of current distribution. Moreover, density functional theory calculation indicates that the introduction of Ag‐S bond could further boost the binding energy between Ag and Li, which promotes homogeneous Li nucleation and growth. Consequently, the rGO‐Ag‐S‐CNT‐based anode achieves a lower overpotential (7.3 mV at 0.5 mA cm−2), higher Coulombic efficiency (98.1% at 0.5 mA cm−2), and superior long cycling performance (over 500 cycles at 2 mA cm−2) as compared with the rGO‐Ag‐CNT‐ and rGO‐CNT‐based anodes. This work provides a universal avenue and guidance to build a robust Li metal host via constructing a strong covalent bond, effectively suppressing the Li dendrites growth to prompt the development of Li metal battery.
Occurrence of Pharmaceutically Active Compounds and Potential Ecological Risks in Wastewater from Hospitals and Receiving Waters in Sri Lanka
Authors: Goswami Prasun , Guruge Keerthi S. , Tanoue Rumi , Tamamura Yukino A. , Jinadasa K. B. S. N. , Nomiyama Kei , Kunisue Tatsuya , Tanabe Shinsuke
Published: September 2021

The presence of pharmaceutically active compounds (PACs) in the environment and their associated hazards is a major global health concern; however, data on these compounds are scarce in developing nations. In the present study, the existence of 39 non-antimicrobial PACs and six of their metabolites in wastewater from hospitals and adjacent surface waters in Sri Lanka was investigated from 2016 to 2018. The highest amounts of the measured chemicals, including the highest concentrations of atorvastatin (14,620 ng/L) and two metabolites, mefenamic acid (12,120 ng/L) and o-desmethyl tramadol (8700 ng/L), were detected in wastewater from the largest facility. Mefenamic acid, gemfibrozil, losartan, cetirizine, carbamazepine, and phenytoin were detected in all the samples. The removal rates in wastewater treatment were 100% for zolpidem, norsertaline, quetiapine, chlorpromazine, and alprazolam. There was substantial variation in removal rates of PACs among facilities, and the overall data suggest that treatment processes in facilities were ineffective and that some PAC concentrations in the effluents were increased. The estimated risk quotients revealed that 14 PACs detected in water samples could pose low to high ecological risk to various aquatic organisms. Compounds such as ibuprofen, tramadol, and chlorpromazine detected in untreated and treated wastewater at these facilities pose a high risk to several aquatic organisms. Our study provides novel monitoring data for non-antimicrobial PAC abundance and the associated potential ecological risk related to hospitals and urban surface waters in Sri Lanka and further offers valuable information on pre–COVID-19 era PAC distribution in the country. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:298–311. © 2021 SETAC
Hybridization enables the fixation of selfish queen genotypes in eusocial colonies
Authors: Weyna Arthur , Romiguier Jonathan , Mullon Charles
Published: September 2021

A eusocial colony typically consists of two main castes: queens that reproduce and sterile workers that help them. This division of labor, however, is vulnerable to genetic elements that favor the development of their carriers into queens. Several factors, such as intracolonial relatedness, can modulate the spread of such caste-biasing genotypes. Here we investigate the effects of a notable yet understudied ecological setting: where larvae produced by hybridization develop into sterile workers. Using mathematical modeling, we show that the coevolution of hybridization with caste determination readily triggers an evolutionary arms race between nonhybrid larvae that increasingly develop into queens, and queens that increasingly hybridize to produce workers. Even where hybridization reduces worker function and colony fitness, this race can lead to the loss of developmental plasticity and to genetically hard-wired caste determination. Overall, our results may help understand the repeated evolution toward remarkable reproductive systems (e.g., social hybridogenesis) observed in several ant species.
Group‐guided individual functional parcellation of the hippocampus and application to normal aging
Authors: Zhang Jiang , Xu Dundi , Cui Hongjie , Zhao Tianyu , Chu Congying , Wang Jiaojian
Published: September 2021

Aging is closely associated with cognitive decline affecting attention, memory and executive functions. The hippocampus is the core brain area for human memory, learning, and cognition processing. To delineate the individual functional patterns of hippocampus is pivotal to reveal the neural basis of aging. In this study, we developed a group‐guided individual parcellation approach based on semisupervised affinity propagation clustering using the resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging to identify individual functional subregions of hippocampus and to identify the functional patterns of each subregion during aging. A three‐way group parcellation was yielded and was taken as prior information to guide individual parcellation of hippocampus into head, body, and tail in each subject. The superiority of individual parcellation of hippocampus is validated by higher intraregional functional similarities by compared to group‐level parcellation results. The individual variations of hippocampus were associated with coactivation patterns of three typical functions of hippocampus. Moreover, the individual functional connectivities of hippocampus subregions with predefined target regions could better predict age than group‐level functional connectivities. Our study provides a novel framework for individual brain functional parcellations, which may facilitate the future individual researches for brain cognitions and brain disorders and directing accurate neuromodulation.