bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and probabilistic health risk assessment in yogurt and butter in Iran
Authors: Kiani Amin , Ahmadloo Mahsa , Moazzen Mojtaba , Shariatifar Nabi , Shahsavari Saeed , Arabameri Majid , Hasani Mohammad Mahdi , Azari Ali , Abdel‐Wahhab Mosaad A.
Published: February 2021

This study was conducted to determine the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) levels and health risk of yogurt and butter samples collected from Tehran using MSPE/GC‐MS (magnetic solid‐phase extraction/gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry). The results revealed that the limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were ranged from 0.040 to 0.060 and 0.121 to 0.181 μg/kg, respectively; with recoveries ranged from 86.1% to 100.3%. The highest mean of total PAHs was higher in butter (6.87 ± 1.21 μg/kg) than in yogurt (3.82 ± 0.54 μg/kg). The level of benzo (a)pyrene in all samples was lower than of standard levels of the European Union (EU). The highest value of all PAHs in samples was recorded in the winter season and also in the expiration date. The percentile 95% of the total hazard quotient (THQ) due to the consumption of yogurt and butter recorded 1.33E‐02 and 3.69E‐04 in adults and 6.12E‐02 and 1.75E‐03 in children, respectively. The percentile of 95% incremental lifetime of cancer risk (ILCR) due to the ingestion of yogurt and butter recorded 1.17E‐06 and 2.02E‐08 for adults and 5.51E‐06 and 9.46E‐08 for children, respectively. The rank order of 7 PAHs in adult and children based on P95% Hazard Quotient (HQ) in all samples was benzo(a)anthracene (BaA) > pyrene (P) > fluorene (F) > fluoranthene (Fl) > acenaphthylene (Ace) > anthracene (A) > naphthalene (NA). According to the Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) method, health‐risk assessment showed that children and adults are not at significant health risk.
The timeliness of 10‐K filings, early filers, and effects of filing deadline changes
Authors: Brooks Li (Lily) Z. , Cheng Yun , Liu Linxiao , Yu Michael D.
Published: February 2021

This study documents the timeliness of 10‐K filings on EDGAR between 1997 and 2018. Consistent with prior studies, we show that firms tend to file around the statutory filing deadlines. We find that 10‐K filings become timelier over time, especially after the statutory filing deadline changes. Prior to deadline changes, we find early filers tend to be dormant state companies, shell companies, development stage companies, or financial entities, such as trusts, asset‐backed securities, mortgage certificates, and funds. Most of these early filers have little or zero assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses. After deadline changes, however, we find firms with large market capitalization and better financial position and performance also report 10‐Ks early, indicating that early filers are not a random sample in recent years. Finally, we show that the changes of filing deadlines increase the number of early filers, but do not affect the proportion of late filers.
A novel COL2A1 mutation causing spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita in a Chinese family
Authors: Zhou Tangjun , Yang Xiao , Chen Zhiqian , Zhou Yifan , Cao Xiankun , Zhao Changqing , Zhao Jie
Published: February 2021

Background

Spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita is an autosomal dominant cartilaginous dysplasia characterized by short trunk, abnormal epiphysis, and flattened vertebral body. Skeletal features of SEDC are present at birth and evolve over time. Other features of SEDC include myopia and/or retinal degeneration with retinal detachment and cleft palate. A mutation in the COL2A1 gene located in 12q13.11 is considered as one of the important causes of SEDC. In 2016, Barat‐Houari et al. reported a large number of COL2A1 mutations. Among them, a non‐synonymous mutation in COL2A1 exon 37, c.2437G>A (p. Gly813Arg), has been reported to cause SEDC in only one patient from France so far.

Methods

We followed up a patient with SEDC phenotype and his family members. The clinical manifestations, physical examination and imaging examination, including X‐ray, CT and MRI, were recorded. The whole‐exome sequencing was used to detect the patients' genes, and the pathogenic genes were screened out by comparing with many databases.

Results

We report a Chinese patient with SEDC phenotype characterized by short trunk, abnormal epiphysis, flattened vertebral body, narrow intervertebral space, dysplasia of the odontoid process, chicken chest, scoliosis, hip and knee dysplasia, and joint hypertrophy. Gene sequencing analysis showed that the patient had a heterozygous mutation (c.2437G>A; p. Gly813Arg) in the COL2A1 gene. No COL2A1 mutation or SEDC phenotype was observed in his family members. This is the first report of SEDC caused by this mutation in an East Asian family.

Conclusion

This report provides typical clinical, imaging, and genetic evidence for SEDC, confirming that a de novo mutation in the COL2A1 gene, c.2437G>A (p. Gly813Arg), causes SEDC in Chinese population.
Nuclear and cytoplasmic quality of oocytes derived from serum‐free culture of secondary follicles in vitro
Authors: Li Ang , Wang Huai‐Xiu , Wang Feng , Fan Li‐Hua , Zhao Zheng‐Hui , Han Feng , Li Jian , Lei Wen‐Long , Zhou Qian , Shi Ya‐Ping , Song Chun‐Ying , Schatten Heide , Sun Qing‐Yuan , Guo Xing‐Ping
Published: February 2021

In vitro culture of follicles is a promising technology to generate large quantities of mature oocytes and it could offer a novel option of assisted reproductive technologies. Here we described a 2‐dimensional follicular serum‐free culture system with 3‐dimensional effect that can make secondary follicles develop into antral follicles (78.52%), generating developmentally mature oocytes in vitro (66.45%). The oocytes in this serum‐free system completed the first meiosis; spindle assembly and chromosome congression in most oocytes matured from follicular culture were normal. However, these oocytes showed significantly lower activation and embryonic development rates, and their ability to produce Ca2+oscillations was also lower in response to parthenogenetic activation, after which a 2‐cell embryonic developmental block occurred. Oocytes matured from follicular culture displayed increased abnormal mitochondrial distribution and increased reactive oxygen species levels when compared to in vivo matured oocytes. These data are important for understanding the reasons for reduced developmental potential of oocytes matured from follicular culture, and for further improving the cultivation system.
Glucose deprivation‐induced endoplasmic reticulum stress response plays a pivotal role in enhancement of TRAIL cytotoxicity
Authors: Kalimuthu Kalishwaralal , Kim Jin Hong , Park Yong Seok , Luo Xu , Zhang Lin , Ku Ja‐Lok , Choudry M. Haroon A. , Lee Yong J.
Published: February 2021

Abnormalities of the tumor vasculature result in insufficient blood supply and development of a tumor microenvironment that is characterized by low glucose concentrations, low extracellular pH, and low oxygen tensions. We previously reported that glucose‐deprived conditions induce metabolic stress and promote tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL)‐induced cytotoxicity. In this study, we examined whether the metabolic stress‐associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response pathway plays a pivotal role in the enhancement of TRAIL cytotoxicity. We observed no significant cytotoxicity when human colorectal cancer SW48 cells were treated with various doses of TRAIL (2–100 ng/ml) for 4 h or glucose (0–25 mM) for 24 h. However, a combination of TRAIL and low glucose‐induced dose‐dependent apoptosis through activation of caspases (‐8, ‐9, and ‐3). Studies with activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), C/EBP‐homologous protein (CHOP), p53 upregulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA), or death receptor 5 (DR5)‐deficient mouse embryonic fibroblasts or HCT116 cells suggest that the ATF4–CHOP–PUMA axis and the ATF4–CHOP–DR5 axis are involved in the combined treatment‐induced apoptosis. Moreover, the combined treatment‐induced apoptosis was completely suppressed in BH3 interacting‐domain death agonist (Bid)‐ or Bcl‐2‐associated X protein (Bax)‐deficient HCT116 cells, but not Bak‐deficient HCT116 cells. Interestingly, the combined treatment‐induced Bax oligomerization was suppressed in PUMA‐deficient HCT116 cells. These results suggest that glucose deprivation enhances TRAIL‐induced apoptosis by integrating the ATF4–CHOP–PUMA axis and the ATF4–CHOP–DR5 axis, consequently amplifying the Bid–Bax‐associated mitochondria‐dependent pathway.
A new type of electron microscope rapid collection device for atmospheric particles and its application cases
Authors: Sun Min , Sun Yi‐yuan , Qiao Cong , Zhang Xiao‐kai
Published: February 2021

A device for collecting atmospheric particulates matter for on‐line electron microscopy was designed and manufactured by using 3D modeling and printing technology. The device was used to collect atmospheric particulates matter in Xining city of Qinghai province for seven consecutive days and used to collect atmospheric particulates matter in Jinan city of Shandong province for 30 consecutive days. And the samples were analyzed by electron microscopy. Through it can obtain ultra structure and size distribution information of atmospheric particulates matter. The experimental results reflected the distribution of atmospheric particulate matter in real time. The on‐line acquisition device for electron microscopy is practical, fast, and convenient, which greatly shortens the sampling period and can be carried to any place outdoors for real‐time sampling. The morphological structure and particle size distribution of atmospheric particles in sampling area was observed by electron microscope. The device has reference value to the study of PM2.5 and PM10 in atmosphere and air pollution. This acquisition device is convenient for the detection of sample by electron microscopy. It can further expand and simplify the sampling technology of large‐scale instruments and equipment. This new method of real‐time monitoring of air pollution is worth popularizing and applying.
Automated Analysis of Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging/Magnetic Resonance Elastography Exams for Prediction of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
Authors: Dzyubak Bogdan , Li Jiahui , Chen Jie , Mara Kristin C. , Therneau Terry M. , Venkatesh Sudhakar K. , Ehman Richard L. , Allen Alina M. , Yin Meng
Published: February 2021

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects 25% of the global population. The standard of diagnosis, biopsy, is invasive and affected by sampling error and inter‐reader variability. We hypothesized that widely available rapid MRI techniques could be used to predict nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) noninvasively by measuring liver stiffness, with magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), and liver fat, with chemical shift‐encoded (CSE) MRI. Besides, we validate an automated image analysis technique to maximize the utility of these methods.

Purpose

To implement and test an automated system for analyzing CSE‐MRI and MRE data coupled with model‐based prediction of NASH.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Eighty‐three patients with suspected NAFLD.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 1.5 T using a flow‐compensated motion‐encoded gradient echo MRE sequence and a multiecho CSE‐MRI sequence.

Assessments

The MRE and CSE‐MRI data were analyzed by two readers (5+ and 1 years of experience) and an automated algorithm. A logistic regression model to predict pathology‐diagnosed NASH was trained based on stiffness and proton density fat fraction, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was calculated using 10‐fold cross validation for models based on both automated and manual measurements. A separate model was trained to predict the NASH severity score (NAS).

Statistical Tests

Pearson's correlation, Bland–Altman, AUROC, C‐statistic.

Results

The agreement between automated measurements and the more experienced reader (R2 = 0.87 for stiffness and R2 = 0.99 for proton density fat fraction [PDFF]) was slightly better than the agreement between readers (R2 = 0.85 and 0.98). The model for predicting biopsy‐diagnosed NASH had an AUROC of 0.87. The NAS‐prediction model had a C‐statistic of 0.85.

Data Conclusion

We demonstrated a workflow that used a limited MRI acquisition protocol and fully automated analysis to predict NASH with high accuracy. These methods show promise to provide a reliable noninvasive alternative to biopsy for NASH‐screening in populations with NAFLD.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Functional Tumor Volume by Fast DynamicContrast‐Enhanced MRIfor Predicting Neoadjuvant Systemic Therapy Response inTriple‐NegativeBreast Cancer
Authors: Musall Benjamin C. , Abdelhafez Abeer H. , Adrada Beatriz E. , Candelaria Rosalind P. , Mohamed Rania M.M. , Boge Medine , Le‐Petross Huong , Arribas Elsa , Lane Deanna L. , Spak David A. , Leung Jessica W.T. , Hwang Ken‐Pin , Son Jong Bum , Elshafeey Nabil A. , Mahmoud Hagar S. , Wei Peng , Sun Jia , Zhang Shu , White Jason B. , Ravenberg Elizabeth E. , Litton Jennifer K. , Damodaran Senthil , Thompson Alastair M. , Moulder Stacy L. , Yang Wei T. , Pagel Mark D. , Rauch Gaiane M. , Ma Jingfei
Published: February 2021

Background

Dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI is useful for diagnosis and assessment of treatment response in breast cancer. Fast DCE MRI offers a higher sampling rate of contrast enhancement curves in comparison to conventional DCE MRI, potentially characterizing tumor perfusion kinetics more accurately for measurement of functional tumor volume (FTV) as a predictor of treatment response.

Purpose

To investigate FTV by fast DCE MRI as a predictor of neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NAST) response in triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC).

Study Type

Prospective.

Population/Subjects

Sixty patients with biopsy‐confirmed TNBC between December 2016 and September 2020.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3.0 T/3Dfast spoiled gradient echo‐basedDCE MRI

Assessment

Patients underwent MRI at baseline and after four cycles (C4) of NAST, followed by definitive surgery. DCE subtraction images were analyzed in consensus by two breast radiologists with 5 (A.H.A.) and 2 (H.S.M.) years of experience. Tumor volumes (TV) were measured on early and late subtractions. Tumors were segmented on 1 and 2.5‐minute early phases subtractions and FTV was determined using optimized signal enhancement thresholds. Interpolated enhancement curves from segmented voxels were used to determine optimal early phase timing.

Statistical Tests

Tumor volumes were compared between patients who had a pathologic complete response (pCR) and those who did not using the area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) and Mann–Whitney U test.

Results

About 26 of 60 patients (43%) had pCR. FTV at 1 minute after injection at C4 provided the best discrimination between pCR and non‐pCR, with AUC (95% confidence interval [CI]) = 0.85 (0.74,0.95) (P < 0.05). The 1‐minute timing was optimal for FTV measurements at C4 and for the change between C4 and baseline. TV from the early phase at C4 also yielded a good AUC (95%CI) of 0.82 (0.71,0.93) (P < 0.05).

Data Conclusion

FTV and TV measured at 1 minute after injection can predict response to NAST in TNBC.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy

4
Effect of a combination of nitazoxanide, ribavirin, and ivermectin plus zinc supplement (MANS.NRIZ study) on the clearance of mild COVID‐19
Authors: Elalfy Hatem , Besheer Tarek , El‐Mesery Ahmed , El‐Gilany Abdel‐Hady , Soliman Mahmoud Abdel‐Aziz , Alhawarey Ahmed , Alegezy Mohamed , Elhadidy Tamer , Hewidy Asem A. , Zaghloul Hossam , Neamatallah Mustafa Ahmed Mohamed , Raafat Douaa , El‐Emshaty Wafaa M. , Abo El Kheir Nermin Y. , El‐Bendary Mahmoud
Published: February 2021

This trial compared the rate and time of viral clearance in subjects receiving a combination of nitazoxanide, ribavirin, and ivermectin plus Zinc versus those receiving supportive treatment. This non‐randomized controlled trial included 62 patients on the triple combination treatment versus 51 age‐ and sex‐matched patients on routine supportive treatment. all of them confirmed cases by positive reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction of a nasopharyngeal swab. Trial results showed that the clearance rates were 0% and 58.1% on the 7th day and 13.7% and 73.1% on the 15th day in the supportive treatment and combined antiviral groups, respectively. The cumulative clearance rates on the 15th day are 13.7% and 88.7% in the supportive treatment and combined antiviral groups, respectively. This trial concluded by stating that the combined use of nitazoxanide, ribavirin, and ivermectin plus zinc supplement effectively cleared the SARS‐COV2 from the nasopharynx in a shorter time than symptomatic therapy.
Dialkyl Sulfobetaine Surfactants Derived from Guerbet Alcohol Polyoxypropylene–Polyoxyethylene Ethers for SP Flooding of High Temperature and High Salinity Reservoirs
Authors: Chen Zhao , Li Yuanli , Liu Xiaomin , Cui Zhenggang
Published: February 2021

Dialkyl hydroxypropyl sulfobetaine (HSB) surfactants, C16GA‐(PO)5‐(EO)3‐HSB and C24GA‐(PO)10‐(EO)10‐HSB, were synthesized from Guerbet alcohols (GA) polyoxypropylene–polyoxyethylene (PO‐EO) ethers and their behaviors in surfactant‐polymer (SP) flooding of high temperature and high salinity reservoirs were examined and compared with their anionic hydroxypropyl sulfonate (HS) counterparts, C16GA‐(PO)5‐(EO)3‐HS and C24GA‐(PO)10‐(EO)10‐HS. The PO‐EO chain embedded improves their aqueous solubility, and the sulfobetaines show better salt resistance than sulfonates. For a reservoir condition of total salinity 19,640 mg L−1 and 60–80°C, C16GA‐(PO)5‐(EO)3‐HSB alone can reduce crude oil/connate water interfacial tension (IFT) to ultralow at 0.25–5 mM, which can be further widened to 0.1–5 mM by mixing with dodecylhexyl (C12+6) glyceryl ether hydroxypropyl sulfobetaine (C12+6GE‐HSB), a slightly hydrophobic surfactant. C24GA‐(PO)10‐(EO)10‐HSB is more hydrophobic for the specified reservoir condition, however, by mixing with hexadecyl dimethyl hydroxypropyl sulfobetaine (C16HSB), a hydrophilic surfactant, ultralow IFT can also be achieved at a total concentration of 0.25–5 mM. The anionic counterparts can also reduce IFT to ultralow by mixing with C12+6GE‐HSB and C16HSB, respectively. Moreover, the optimum binary mixture, C16GA‐(PO)5‐(EO)3‐HSB/C12+6GE‐HSB at a molar fraction ratio of 0.6/0.4, can keep the negatively charged solid surface water‐wet (θw = 12–23°) in a wide concentration range, and can still achieve ultralow IFT after stored at 90°C for 90 days (initially 5 mM), which overall are favor of improving oil displacement efficiency at high temperature and high salinity reservoir conditions.
Dynamics of land‐use changes and their future trends using spatial analysis and the CA‐Markov model—A case‐study with a special emphasis on aquaculture development in India
Authors: Jayanthi Marappan , Duraisamy Muthusamy , Thirumurthy Selvasekar , Samynathan Muthusamy , Muralidhar Moturi
Published: February 2021

Land resources utilized for aquaculture development have raised many environmental issues worldwide. But no detailed information is available about the land‐use changes due to aquaculture in comparison with other land use modifications. Hence, the land‐use changes and predictions have been explored in India's leading aquaculture region using multitemporal satellite images (1986–2016), spatial techniques, and land change modeling. Agriculture was the largest proportionate land use in the study area and consistently used for aquaculture and buildings. There were no aquaculture farms in 1986; however, their area had expanded to 12,575 ha by 1996 and further increased to 38,564 ha (207%) in 2006. It then reduced in area by 36% in 2016. Agricultural lands have been used for 74%, 66%, and 15% of aquaculture development during 1986–1996, 1996–2006, and 2006–2016, respectively. Scrublands and mudflats have been used for aquaculture growth between 6 and 22% and 1–2% at different periods of our study. Salt pans and mangroves were occasionally used (less than 0.5%) for aquaculture. Dynamic land‐use changes have been observed between agriculture and scrublands. The reconversion to agriculture occurred from the aquaculture area by 20 and 51% during 1996–2006 and 2006–2016, respectively. It is predicted that the aquaculture area will further reduce, but agriculture is likely to be used for aquaculture and for buildings, despite the existing ban. Land availability is a major limiting factor; thus, it will pose a significant challenge and lead to conflicts in the future if not planned for now.
Remarkably high and consistent tolerance of a Red Sea coral to acute and chronic thermal stress exposures
Authors: Evensen Nicolas R. , Fine Maoz , Perna Gabriela , Voolstra Christian R. , Barshis Daniel J.
Published: February 2021

Global warming is resulting in unprecedented levels of coral mortality due to mass bleaching events and, more recently, marine heatwaves, where rapid increases in seawater temperature cause mortality within days. Here, we compare the response of a ubiquitous scleractinian coral, Stylophora pistillata, from the northern Red Sea to acute (7 h) and chronic (7–11 d) thermal stress events that include temperature treatments of 27°C (i.e., the local maximum monthly mean), 29.5°C, 32°C, and 34.5°C, and assess recovery of the corals following exposure. Overall, S. pistillata exhibited remarkably similar responses to acute and chronic thermal stress, responding primarily to the temperature treatment rather than duration or heating rate. Additionally, corals displayed an exceptionally high thermal tolerance, maintaining their physiological performance and suffering little to no loss of algal symbionts or chlorophyll a up to 32°C, before the host suffered from rapid tissue necrosis and mortality at 34.5°C. While there was some variability in physiological response metrics, photosynthetic efficiency measurements (i.e., maximum quantum yield Fv/Fm) accurately reflected the overall physiological response patterns, with these measurements used to produce the Fv/Fm effective dose (ED50) metric as a proxy for the thermal tolerance of corals. This approach produced similar ED50 values for the acute and chronic experiments (34.47°C vs. 33.81°C), highlighting the potential for acute thermal assays with measurements of Fv/Fm as a systematic and standardized approach to quantitively compare the upper thermal limits of reef‐building corals using a portable experimental system.
Quantitative nuclear DNA content and cell cycle analysis of a mixotrophic dinoflagellate by image cytometry
Authors: Broemsen Erik L. J. E. , Place Allen R. , Parrow Matthew W.
Published: February 2021

The goal of this work was to develop and demonstrate the utility of microscope‐based image cytometry (ICM) as a method for quantifying nuclear DNA content and cell cycle phase distribution in microalgae both in culture and in natural blooms, as an alternative to flow cytometry (FCM). To do so, aliquots from the same samples of the dinoflagellate Karlodinium veneficum were examined using both ICM and FCM. ICM specimen preparation and data acquisition methods were optimized to improve precision and agreement between the two techniques. Accuracy and precision of DNA measurements by ICM were significantly higher using the DNA fluorophore DAPI compared to SYBR® Green I. Milli‐Q H2O was found to be superior to Tris‐EDTA as a staining and slide preparation solution for ICM analyses. Lower‐powered objective magnification (10x, 20x) in image acquisition for ICM produced higher precision in nuclear DNA measurements. Overall precision of ICM analysis of DAPI‐stained K. veneficum cells was comparable to FCM, with respective 1C DNA peak coefficients of variation as low as 6.2%. Cell cycle distributions of mid‐log culture samples analyzed by both ICM and FCM were in agreement (two‐way ANOVA; p = 0.93); while distributions analyzed in a field sample were similar but not identical (Z‐test; p < 0.001). Overall, the results show the feasibility of ICM as a useful tool for microalgal cell cycle analysis, with the potential for more flexible application to mixotrophic/phagotrophic species and complex field populations.
MovCLUfish: A data mining tool for discovering fish movement patterns from individual‐based models
Authors: Politikos Dimitrios V. , Kleftogiannis Dimitrios , Tsiaras Kostas , Rose Kenneth A.
Published: February 2021

Spatially explicit individual‐based models (IBMs) are useful tools for simulating the movement of discrete fish individuals within dynamic and heterogeneous environments. However, processing the IBM outputs is complicated because fish individuals are continuously adjusting their behavior in response to changing environmental conditions. Here, we present a new analysis tool, called MovCLUfish, that uses data mining to identify patterns from the trajectories of the individuals generated from IBMs. MovCLUfish is configured to identify features of fish behavior related to occupation (area of fish presence), dynamics of aggregation (how fish individuals are distributed within the area of presence), and mobility (how fish move between subregions). MovCLUfish receives as input the fish locations (longitude, latitude) at fixed times during a specific time period and performs spatial clustering on consecutive timestamps, considering them as moving objects. Fish locations are grouped into clusters whose features (centroid, shape, size, density) are used to provide further information about the spatial distributions. The clusters are analyzed using three built‐in pattern mining methods: tracking moving centroids (TMC), aggregating moving clusters (AMC), and tracking fish mobility (TFM). TMC detects shifts in the distribution of fish over time, AMC visualizes the way fish aggregations change geographically over time, and TFM provides quantitative information on the patterns of exchange and connectivity of individuals among regions within the domain. We describe the workflow of MovCLUfish and illustrate its applicability using output from an IBM model configured for anchovy in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Further avenues for improvement and expansion of MovCLUfish are discussed.
How the Calcination Procedure Affects the Morphology and the Catalytic Activity of Polymer‐Supported Nickel Nanoparticles
Authors: Fiore Ambra M. , Nefedova Darya , Romanazzi Giuseppe , Petrelli Valentina , Mali Matilda , Leonelli Cristina , Mortalò Cecilia , Catauro Michelina , Mastrorilli Piero , Dell'Anna Maria Michela
Published: February 2021

A nickel containing monomer, Ni(AAEMA)2 (AAEMA− = deprotonated form of 2‐(acetoacetoxy) ethyl methacrylate) is co‐polymerized with ethyl methacrylate (co‐monomer) and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (cross‐linker). The obtained polymer is a green methacrylic resin containing Ni(II) centers homogeneously dispersed in the catalyst, which results insoluble in all common organic solvents and in water. The specific features of this material classify it as an amphiphilic resin, air and moisture stable, with the peculiarity to swell in halogenated solvents, acetone and water and to shrink in diethyl ether and petroleum ether. The polymer is calcined under reductive conditions (dihydrogen with initial pressure of 5 bar) following two procedures, differing from each other for the cooling conditions. In the first procedure, the calcined material is cooled under dihydrogen gas, while in the second one the cooling step occurs under air. After calcination, the green Ni(II)‐based co‐polymer turns into black resins, Ni‐res1 (obtained by cooling under hydrogen) and Ni‐res2 ((obtained by cooling under air). FESEM analyses show that both Ni‐res1 and Ni‐res2 support Ni nanoparticles with different morphologies, being the metal nanoparticles onto Ni‐res1 smaller than the ones dispersed in Ni‐res2, that have an urchin‐like shape. Both Ni‐based co‐polymers are tested as catalysts in the reduction of nitrobenzene with NaBH4. Ni‐res1 results more active and selective towards aniline with respect to Ni‐res2.
Surface Characterization of Composite Catalysts Prepared by Sol‐Gel Route
Authors: Catauro Michelina , Blanco Ignazio , Naviglio Daniele , Poggetto Giovanni Dal
Published: February 2021

The aim of this work is to synthesize Nb‐V oxide catalysts by sol gel route starting from metal alkoxides using different H2O/V ratios. Dried samples are characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), atomic absorption, and Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) analysis. Calcination of dried materials up to 600°C in flowing air has been followed with Thermogravimetry‐Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (TG‐FTIR) spectroscopic analysis. The catalytic properties of calcined materials are tested in the oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane at 600°C. An improvement of the catalytic performances of vanadium for the gel prepared with the higher H2O/V ratio is found with respect to those of the supported catalyst due to the better interaction between vanadium and niobium.
A Simple Model of Heat Distribution at Various Rayleigh Number in Silicon Elastomer
Authors: Samal Sneha , Blanco Ignazio , Crescente G. , Catauro Michelina.
Published: February 2021

In order to investigate the two‐dimensional flow of a non‐Newtonian fluid, such as an elastomer liquid over a cylinder, a simplified model is applied. The analysis is carried out to study the thermophysical properties of the melt elastomer flow with Prandtl variable in the presence of internal heat generation. The temperature‐dependent physical properties such as velocity, contour temperature, surface temperature as a function of contour velocity, and pressure are considered and discussed. Moreover, the exchange of energy from the surface to the fluids is examined through the variation in the Rayleigh number.
Photo‐Curing 3D Printing and Innovative Design of Porous Composite Structures for Biomedical Applications
Authors: De Santis Roberto , Russo Teresa , Fucile Pierpaolo , Martorelli Massimo , Catauro Michelina , Gloria Antonio
Published: February 2021

Light‐activated resins and composites are used in conjunction with a light curing unit and allow an on‐demand process of polymerization. These kinds of materials usually represent the most popular choice in the restorative dental practice. Some works have already highlighted contemporary tendencies in the use of nondegradable scaffolds and mesenchymal stem cells in regenerative medicine. Accordingly, the aim of the current research is to develop 3D porous and light‐activated composite structures with optimized functional properties. Preliminary mechanical and biological tests are carried out.
Additive Manufacturing Processing of Plastics for Mass Production of Composites Tooling: Technical and Economic Analysis
Authors: Cicala Gianluca , Tosto Claudio , Recca Giuseppe , Patti Antonella
Published: February 2021

The present paper focuses on the use of several additive manufacturing (AM) techniques for tooling manufacturing for composite parts production. A geometry that prevents mandrel removal is selected and it is analyzed in a real industrial environment for composites production using autoclave molding. The use of two different AM mandrels is evaluated: fused deposition modeling and liquid crystal display. The results are analyzed in terms of composites part quality, processing time and final part cost.
Effect of Dispersant Agent Content on the Properties of Composites Based on Poly (Lactic Acid) and Alfa Fiber
Authors: Ibrahim Hanane , Boukerrou Amar , Hammiche Dalila
Published: February 2021

The main objective of this research is to use a dispersing agent (BYK W‐980) as a compatibilizer in the composites containing poly (lactic acid) (PLA) and Alfa fiber. The dispersing agent is used to modify the surface of the fiber and to solve the problem of the incompatibility between the matrix (PLA) and fiber. In this context, various formulations containing PLA/alfa fiber are prepared with a loads rate in the fiber of 30% by weight and with different contents of BYK W‐980 (2 and 3.3 wt%). Composites are prepared by twin‐screw extrusion followed by compression molding. The mechanical properties are evaluated through the flexural test, the morphology of materials is also studied. The results indicate that the 2% BYK W‐980 increases the interfacial adhesion between the fibers and the PLA polymer matrix, this treatment effect is better than the one obtained by using 3.3% BYK W‐980 compatibilizer.
Finite Element Modeling of Lab‐on‐Chip for T Lymphocyte Analysis
Authors: Ghiculescu Daniel , Marinescu Roxana , Avram Marioara
Published: February 2021

The paper deals with the finite element modeling and simulation of lab‐on‐a‐chip microfluidic device that is used for counting leukocytes in blood samples. Some aspects regarding the state of the art of lab‐on‐a‐chip devices are presented. These microfluidic devices offer the possibility to perform certain determinations, as it is the case of T lymphocytes, which are impossible by current conventional equipment. Comsol multiphysics and stationary laminar flow module are used for finite element modeling and simulating of device working, and for its geometric optimization. The velocities and the required travel time of the blood sample combined with the lysing and stop lysing substances, within two dedicated circuits are determined. These are formed by multiple coils, two counting channels for two cell types and a cells capture chamber. Then, the execution specifications of the lab‐on‐a‐chip on a millimetric silicon wafer are delivered, by microtechnologies, the modelling results being validated.
Development and In‐Vitro Characterization of Benzydamine Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles
Authors: Marudova Maria , Zahariev Nikolay , Milenkova Sofia , Pilicheva Bissera , Viraneva Asya , Yovcheva Temenuzhka
Published: February 2021

The aim of the present research is the preparation of chitosan nanoparticles intended for Benzydamine (BZ) delivery. The method of ionotropic gelation is applied for the nanoparticle's formation. The crosslinking is performed by NaTPP. Dynamic light scattering analysis shows that particle's sizes are in nano‐scale and can be varied by changing the polymer and crosslinker concentrations. The yield of the gelation varies between 23% and 69%. The BZ loading efficiency differs in the range from 10% to 24.3%. Differential scanning calorimetry is applied for investigating the BZ state. It proved that the BZ changes its physical state from crystal to amorphous. The in vitro drug release profile along with kinetics and mechanism of release from the nano‐spheres are studied under simulated physiological conditions for different incubation periods. The release rate can be changed by varying the chitosan and NaTPP concentrations.
Rheological Properties and Fillers Dispersion State in the Elastomer Magnetic Composites
Authors: Hložeková Klaudia , Kruželák Ján , Kvasničáková Andrea , Hudec Ivan
Published: February 2021

Manganese‐zinc ferrite as magnetic filler is compounded with NBR or NR based elastomer matrices in two steps. Manganese‐zinc ferrite is the most important part of elastomer compounds because of its magnetic properties, but it is inactive filler and thus carbon black is added into the rubber formulations as well. The rubber compound filled only with ferrite exhibits high viscosity and it is not able to be processed by extrusion. For this reason, rheological properties of all compounds with different ratio of processing additives and fillers are studied. It has been found out in our previous research that rubber compounds filled with 200 phr of ferrite showed the best electromagnetic shielding performance. Dispersion Z and dispersion D of cured and uncured elastomer compounds with processing additives Werbablend and Werbalub, which are mixed in laboratory and industrial kneading machine, are determined on an instrument disperGRADERTM αview.
Constructing Slow‐Release Metribuzin Formulations by Co‐extrusion of the Pesticide with Poly‐ε‐Caprolactone
Authors: Boyandin Anatoly Nikolayevich , Kazantseva Eugenia Andreevna
Published: February 2021

A simple and low‐cost method of obtaining slow‐release pesticide formulations is proposed by co‐extrusion of a herbicide metribuzin with a low‐melting biodegradable polyester poly‐ε‐caprolactone, at a temperature above the melting points of both components. Formulations containing 10%, 20%, and 40% herbicide are prepared. Metribuzin release in water during 7 days of exposition reached 81% from the formulations with the 10% loading and 96% from the specimens with the 40% herbicide loading. Biodegradation and pesticide release from the polymer constructs are studied in the model soil for 14 weeks. Degradation rates of the specimens increased with an increase in pesticide content: between 9% for the 10%‐loaded specimen and 20% for the 40%‐loaded specimen over 14 weeks. The release of metribuzin from the specimens with the 10–20% and 40% loadings reached 37–38% and 55%, respectively; thus, taking into account soil degradation of the herbicide, the herbicide content in soil reached 23–25% and 33%, respectively, of the initially loaded into the polymer matrix. The used approach is promising to obtain long‐term release formulations for soil application.
Unraveling the Microbial Mechanisms Underlying the Psychobiotic Potential of a Bifidobacterium breve Strain
Authors: Tian Peijun , Bastiaanssen Thomaz F. S. , Song Linhong , Jiang Bin , Zhang Xu , Zhao Jianxin , Zhang Hao , Chen Wei , Cryan John F. , Wang Gang
Published: February 2021

Scope

The antidepressant‐like effect of psychobiotics has been observed in both pre‐clinical and clinical studies, but the molecular mechanisms of action are largely unclear. To address this, the psychobiotic strain Bifidobacterium breve CCFM1025 is investigated for its genomic features, metabolic features, and gut microbial and metabolic modulation effect.

Methods and Results

Unlike B. breve FHLJDQ3M5, CCFM1025 significantly decreases the chronically stressed mice's depressive‐like behaviors and neurological abnormalities. CCFM1025 has more genes encoding glycoside hydrolases (GHs) when comparing to FHLJDQ3M5's genome, which means CCFM1025 has a superior carbohydrate utilization capacity and living adaptivity in the gut. CCFM1025 also produces higher levels of neuromodulatory metabolites, including hypoxanthine, tryptophan, and nicotinate. The administration of CCFM1025 reshapes the gut microbiome of chronically stressed mice. It results in higher cecal xanthine, tryptophan, short‐chain fatty acid levels, and enhances fatty acid and tryptophan biosynthesis capability in the gut–brain interaction (identified by in silico analyses) than FHLJDQ3M5‐treated mice.

Conclusions

Genomic and metabolic features involving GHs and neuromodulatory metabolites may determine the antidepressant‐like effect of B. breve CCFM1025. Psychobiotics’ characterization in this manner may provide guidelines for developing novel psychopharmacological agents in the future.
Morphological origins of temperature and rate dependent mechanical properties of model soft thermoplastic elastomers
Authors: Sbrescia Simone , Ju Jianzhu , Engels Tom , Van Ruymbeke Evelyne , Seitz Michelle
Published: February 2021

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) combine high elasticity with melt processability due to their structural features being based on physical associations rather than chemical crosslinking. Their mechanical properties are governed by the interplay of the different dynamics present in the system (i.e., hard block associations and soft block mobility) combined with their morphology. Irrespective of their exact chemical structure or type of association (crystals, hydrogen bonds, or glassy domains), many soft TPEs show a reduction in toughness at elevated temperatures. In this study, we investigate the high‐temperature mechanical properties of a model series of industrially relevant TPEs via systematically varying composition and molecular weight. The results show an increase in temperature resistance and in large‐strain stress response as chain length increases. We underline the key parameters that influence the mechanical behavior and explain the observed effect of molecular weight on both the temperature‐ and rate‐dependent large‐strain response. A physical network‐based model is presented that can explain the experimental findings assuming an improved network connectivity and extended lifetime of the entangled segments with increasing molecular weight.
Hard silicon carbonitride thin‐film coatings produced by remote hydrogen plasma chemical vapor deposition using aminosilane and silazane precursors. 1: Deposition mechanism, chemical structure, and surface morphology
Authors: Wrobel Aleksander M. , Uznanski Pawel
Published: February 2021

Amorphous silicon carbonitride films were produced by remote hydrogen microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (RP‐CVD) using aminosilanes: (dimethylamino)dimethylsilane, bis(dimethylamino)methylsilane, and tris(dimethylamino)silane, as well as disilazanes: 1,1,3,3‐tetramethyldisilazane and 1,3‐bis(dimethylsilyl)‐2,2,4,4‐tetramethylcyclodisilazane as single‐source precursors. The effect of substrate temperature (TS) on the rate and yield of the RP‐CVD process, chemical composition, chemical structure, and surface morphology of resulting films is reported. The temperature dependencies of thickness‐based growth rate and growth yield of the film imply that for a low substrate temperature range (TS = 30–200°C), deposition rate and yield are limited by desorption of film‐forming precursors from a growth surface, whereas for a high substrate temperature range (TS = 200–400°C), the rate and yield values, independent of the temperature, are nearly constant and the RP‐CVD is a nonthermally activated process. The increase of the substrate temperature from 30°C to 400°C causes the elimination of organic groups from the film and the formation of a silicon carbonitride network structure with a predominant content of Si–N nitridic and Si–C carbidic bonds. On the basis of structural study and literature data, hypothetical elementary reactions contributing to the film formation process are postulated. The films were found to be morphologically homogeneous, defect‐free materials exhibiting very small surface roughness, which varied in a narrow range of values.
Predictors of pulmonary function at 6 years of age in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Aoyama Brianna C. , Collaco Joseph M. , McGrath‐Morrow Sharon A.
Published: February 2021

Rationale

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a major complication of premature birth and the most common cause of chronic lung disease in infancy. Previous studies have shown that children with a history of BPD have impaired lung function in childhood compared to their term counterparts. However, little is known about potential modifiable factors that alter lung function trajectories and subsequent respiratory morbidity in this population.

Objectives

To identify potential modifiable risk factors for the development of impaired lung function in patients with a history of prematurity and bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

Methods

Growth parameters (birth, 2 years old, 6 years old) and pulmonary function testing (6 years old) were retrospectively reviewed for subjects (n = 598) recruited from an outpatient BPD clinic who were born ≤36 weeks gestation and were ≥5 years of age.

Results

Of the 598 recruited subjects, 88 (14.7%) performed adequate pulmonary function testing at approximately 6 years of age. The mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s global lung initiative (GLI) Z‐score was −1.31 with lower values associated with Nissen fundoplication. The mean forced vital capacity GLI Z‐score was −0.72 with lower values associated with higher amounts of oxygen required at time of initial hospital discharge and Nissen fundoplication.

Conclusion

Our study found that children with BPD have lower predicted lung function values. Although growth parameters at age 2 and 6 years did not correlate with lung function values at 6 years of age; use and greater requirement for supplemental oxygen and the presence of a Nissen fundoplication at discharge were associated with lower lung function. Prospective studies should focus on identifying modifiable risk factors that could minimize the impact of BPD on later lung function.
The Effect of X‐Ray Irradiation on Conductivity of C and 2C Polytype TlInS2 Ferroelectrics
Authors: Borovyi Mykola , Gololobov Yurii P. , Isaieva Karyna , Isaiev Mykola
Published: February 2021

The influence of X‐ray irradiation on DC conductivity of TlInS2 C and 2C polytypes is studied in the temperature range of 100–300 K. The X‐ray irradiation (absorbed doses are 0.9 and 2.7 kGy) leads to an increasing conductivity of both C‐ and 2C‐samples in proportion to the absorbed dose; the conductivity decreases on cooling in the temperature region of 100–300 K. An anomalous increase in conductivity is observed in C‐polytype samples on cooling in the temperature range of the incommensurate phase (197–214 K). The X‐ray irradiation causes the “blur” of that anomaly. It is established that the mechanism of hopping conductivity with variable hopping length takes place for both polytypes in the temperature range of 125–175 K, and the densities of localized states near the Fermi level (NF) are determined. Under irradiation, the density NF increases from 3.7 × 1018 eV−1 cm−3 (C) to 6.9 × 1018 eV−1 cm−3 (2C) and exceeds the initial value more than three times at D = 2.7 kGy. Using the 1D Kroning–Penney model, the role of incommensurate periodic potential in modification of electron band structure at creation of the incommensurate phases in crystals is discussed.
Response‐adaptive trial designs with accelerated Thompson sampling
Authors: Wang Jixian
Published: February 2021

In a clinical trial, sometimes it is desirable to allocate as many patients as possible to the best treatment, in particular, when a trial for a rare disease may contain a considerable portion of the whole target population. The Gittins index rule is a powerful tool for sequentially allocating patients to the best treatment based on the responses of patients already treated. However, its application in clinical trials is limited due to technical complexity and lack of randomness. Thompson sampling is an appealing approach, since it makes a compromise between optimal treatment allocation and randomness with some desirable optimal properties in the machine learning context. However, in clinical trial settings, multiple simulation studies have shown disappointing results with Thompson samplers. We consider how to improve short‐run performance of Thompson sampling and propose a novel acceleration approach. This approach can also be applied to situations when patients can only be allocated by batch and is very easy to implement without using complex algorithms. A simulation study showed that this approach could improve the performance of Thompson sampling in terms of average total response rate. An application to a redesign of a preference trial to maximize patient's satisfaction is also presented.