bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thick free‐standing electrode based on carbon–carbon nitride microspheres with large mesopores for high‐energy‐density lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Kang Hui‐Ju , Lee Tae‐Gyu , Kim Heejin , Park Jae‐Woo , Hwang Hyun Jin , Hwang Hyeonseok , Jang Kwang‐Suk , Kim Hae Jin , Huh Yun Suk , Im Won Bin , Jun Young‐Si
Published: May 2021

The development of sulfur cathodes with high areal capacity and high energy density is crucial for the practical application of lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs). LSBs can be built by employing (ultra) high‐loading sulfur cathodes, which have rarely been realized due to massive passivation and shuttling. Herein, microspheres of a carbon–carbon nitride composite (C@CN) with large mesopores are fabricated via molecular cooperative assembly. Using the C@CN‐based electrodes, the effects of the large mesopores and N‐functional groups on the electrochemical behavior of sulfur in LSB cells are thoroughly investigated under ultrahigh sulfur‐loading conditions (>15 mgS cm−2). Furthermore, for high‐energy‐density LSBs, the C@CN powders are pelletized into a thick free‐standing electrode (thickness: 500 μm; diameter: 11 mm) via a simple briquette process; here, the total amount of energy stored by the LSB cells is 39 mWh, corresponding to a volumetric energy density of 440 Wh L−1 with an areal capacity of 24.9 and 17.5 mAh cm−2 at 0.47 and 4.7 mA cm−2, respectively (at 24 mgS cm−2). These results have significantly surpassed most recent records due to the synergy among the large mesopores, (poly)sulfide‐philic surfaces, and thick electrodes. The developed strategy with its potential for scale‐up successfully fills the gap between laboratory‐scale cells and practical cells without sacrificing the high areal capacity and high energy density, providing a solid foundation for the development of practical LSBs.
Bacteriophage‐Templated Assembly of Magnetic Nanoparticles and Their Actuation Potential
Authors: Olszewska‐Widdrat Agata , Bennet Mathieu , Mickoleit Frank , Widdrat Marc , Tarabout Christophe , Reichel Victoria , Arndt Katja , Schüler Dirk , Faivre Damien
Published: May 2021

Magnetic chains are of fundamental and technological interest. However, 1D assemblies of magnetic nanoparticles are only metastable such that their controlled organization requires the use of templates. Bacteriophages are human‐inoffensive viruses with a filamentous morphology that have been shown to exhibit great potential in materials research. Here, we thus utilized the M13 phage as a model for the formation of actuated magnetite nanoparticle superstructures. First, we built a sperm‐like ensemble by covalently attaching magnetic nanoparticles to the head of the phage. Second, chain‐like assemblies are obtained based on the electrostatic interactions between positively‐charged magnetite nanoparticles attached to the negatively‐charged phage surface. The nanoparticles‐phages assembly is steered by external magnetic fields. We anticipate such materials can find applications in nanotechnology or nanomedicine.
Prognostic value of reverse remodelling criteria in heart failure with reduced or mid‐range ejection fraction
Authors: Aimo Alberto , Fabiani Iacopo , Vergaro Giuseppe , Arzilli Chiara , Chubuchny Vladyslav , Pasanisi Emilio Maria , Petersen Christina , Poggianti Elisa , Taddei Claudia , Pugliese Nicola Riccardo , Bayes‐Genis Antoni , Lupón Josep , Giannoni Alberto , Ripoli Andrea , Georgiopoulos Georgios , Passino Claudio , Emdin Michele
Published: May 2021

Aims

Reverse remodelling (RR) is the recovery from left ventricular (LV) dilatation and dysfunction. Many arbitrary criteria for RR have been proposed. We searched the criteria with the strongest prognostic yield for the hard endpoint of cardiovascular death.

Methods and results

We performed a systematic literature search of diagnostic criteria for RR. We evaluated their prognostic significance in a cohort of 927 patients with LV ejection fraction (LVEF) < 50% undergoing two echocardiograms within 12 ± 2 months. These patients were followed for a median of 2.8 years (interquartile interval 1.3–4.9) after the second echocardiogram, recording 123 cardiovascular deaths. Two prognostic models were defined. Model 1 included age, LVEF, N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide, ischaemic aetiology, cardiac resynchronization therapy, estimated glomerular filtration rate, New York Heart Association, and LV end‐systolic volume (LVESV) index, and Model 2 the validated Cardiac and Comorbid Conditions Heart Failure score. We identified 25 criteria for RR, the most used being LVESV reduction ≥15% (12 studies out of 42). In the whole cohort, two criteria proved particularly effective in risk reclassification over Model 1 and Model 2. These criteria were (i) LVEF increase >10 U and (ii) LVEF increase ≥1 category [severe (LVEF ≤ 30%), moderate (LVEF 31–40%), mild LV dysfunction (LVEF 41–55%), and normal LV function (LVEF ≥ 56%)]. The same two criteria yielded independent prognostic significance and improved risk reclassification even in patients with more severe systolic dysfunction, namely, those with LVEF < 40% or LVEF ≤ 35%. Furthermore, LVEF increase >10 U and LVEF increase ≥1 category displayed a greater prognostic value than LVESV reduction ≥15%, both in the whole cohort and in the subgroups with LVEF < 40% or LVEF ≤ 35%. For example, LVEF increase >10 U independently predicted cardiovascular death over Model 1 and LVESV reduction ≥15% (hazard ratio 0.40, 95% confidence interval 0.18–0.90, P = 0.026), while LVESV reduction ≥15% did not independently predict cardiovascular death (P = 0.112).

Conclusions

Left ventricular ejection fraction increase >10 U and LVEF increase ≥1 category are stronger predictors of cardiovascular death than the most commonly used criterion for RR, namely, LVESV reduction ≥15%.
Techno‐Economic Evaluation of Photocatalytic H2S Splitting
Authors: Oladipo Habeebllah , Yusuf Ahmed , Al-Ali Khalid , Palmisano Giovanni
Published: May 2021

The removal of the noxious H2S from natural gas remains a challenging task in the oil and gas industry. Different H2S splitting technologies are proposed and investigated based on the techno‐economic analysis. Herein, the photocatalysis route for H2S splitting represents a potential technology that is not yet fully analyzed. The present study reports a techno‐economic analysis of hydrogen production from H2S via photocatalysis. Guided by the previous experimental result on H2S splitting, Aspen Plus software is used to design and simulate the proposed plant. An economic analysis is performed with CapCost software to estimate the plant capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX) and the cost of hydrogen production. At 0.485 t H2 per h, the process CAPEX is about 105 M$, and OPEX is 143 M$ per year. At a levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) production of 1860 $ per t H2, the proposed plant will be able to break even at the end of the plant life. Sensitivity analysis reveals that the process OPEX and price of hydrogen are strongly dependent on the cost of aqueous NaOH. These findings are potentially useful for oil and gas industries looking to incorporate an emerging technology like the presented one in refineries.
The Visible Ape Project: A free, comprehensive, web‐based anatomical atlas for scientists and veterinarians designed to raise public awareness about apes
Authors: Barger Nicole , Martín José Saúl , Boyle Eve K. , Richmond Marli , Diogo Rui
Published: May 2021

The Visible Ape Project (VAP) is a free online platform providing unprecedented access to a suite of resources designed to comprehensively illustrate and educate about the anatomy of our closest relatives, the apes. It contains photographs, magnetic resonance images, and computed tomography scans, as well as three‐dimensional models that can be manipulated to explore homologies and variations in soft and hard tissues in hylobatids, orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and bonobos. Based at Howard University, a historically black university, it aims to reach communities underrepresented in anthropology and evolutionary biology, providing educational materials appropriate for K‐12 and college classrooms in both English and Spanish. Accordingly, VAP incorporates outreach activities to disseminate science and promote awareness of apes, forming partnerships with veterinarians and conservationists in Africa and Asia. In this paper, we present an introduction to the website to illustrate how this accessible, evolving resource can support evolutionary anthropology and related disciplines.
A novel gas kinetic flux solver for simulation of continuum and slip flows
Authors: Yuan Zhenyu , Yang Liming , Shu Chang , Liu Zijian , Liu Wei
Published: May 2021

In this work, a novel gas kinetic flux solver (GKFS) is presented for simulation of compressible and incompressible flows in the continuum and slip regimes. The finite volume method is adopted to discretize the governing differential equations, and inviscid and viscous fluxes at the cell interface are evaluated simultaneously by the local solution to the Boltzmann equation. Different from the conventional GKFS, in which the local solution to the Boltzmann equation is divided into the equilibrium part and the nonequilibrium part and the nonequilibrium distribution function is approximated by the difference of equilibrium distribution functions at the cell interface and its surrounding points, the present solver evaluates the local solution by integrating the Boltzmann equation along the characteristic line. As a result, the local solution to the Boltzmann equation consists of the equilibrium distribution function at the cell interface and the initial distribution function at the surrounding points. In the present work, the initial distribution function is given from the first‐order Chapman–Enskog expansion. Finally, the distribution function at the cell interface is only relevant to the macroscopic variables and their spatial derivatives. Accordingly, the fluxes across the cell interface can be evaluated by the moments of the distribution function at the cell interface. Test results show that the present solver can provide accurate numerical predictions for flows in both continuum and slip regimes.
Characterization of bacterial community and flavor differences of different types of Douchi
Authors: Wang Yurong , Xiang Fanshu , Zhang Zhendong , Hou Qiangchuan , Guo Zhuang
Published: May 2021

According to the appearance and technology, traditional fermented Douchi can be divided into dried Douchi and wet Douchi. However, there are few reports on the difference of bacterial community structure between them or the influence of bacterial community on product flavor. In this study, high‐throughput sequencing technology and electronic nose were used to measure the bacterial diversity and flavor of 40 Douchi samples, and the correlation between them was explored by multivariate statistical means combined with COG database. Results showed that the cumulative average relative abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria in the samples was as high as 95.93%, and the former was the core bacteria phylum. On the whole, the dominant bacteria in Douchi were Bacillus (50.67%), Staphylococcus (14.07%), Enterococcus (2.54%), Proteus (1.61%), Brevibacillus (1.46%), Providencia (1.26%), Weissella (1.24%), and Ureibacillus (1.19%). LEfSe analysis indicated that Bacillus can be used as a biomarker in dried fermented soybeans. Meanwhile, dried samples contained more intensive aromatic substances, but were significantly lower in W6S (selectivity to hydrogen) and W3S (methane‐aliph) compared with the wet samples. Aneurinibacillus and Brevibacillus were helpful to the formation of aromatic flavor in Douchi, but Vagococcus and Corynebacterium were the opposite. Gene and microbial phenotypic prediction showed that microorganisms in dried Douchi use protein more efficiently, while in wet Douchi, microbial energy metabolism was more vigorous. The pathogenic potential of microorganisms in dried samples was higher than that in wet. This study can sound the alarm for improving the safety of home‐brewed Douchi and provide guidance for the subsequent screening of strains that enhance the flavor of fermented soybeans.
Preferential frequency‐dependent induction of synaptic depression by the lateral perforant path and of synaptic potentiation by the medial perforant path inputs to the dentate gyrus
Authors: Collitti‐Klausnitzer Jens , Hagena Hardy , Dubovyk Valentyna , Manahan‐Vaughan Denise
Published: May 2021

The encoding of spatial representations is enabled by synaptic plasticity. The entorhinal cortex sends information to the hippocampus via the lateral (LPP) and medial perforant (MPP) paths that transfer egocentric item‐related and allocentric spatial information, respectively. To what extent LPP and MPP information‐relay results in different homosynaptic synaptic plasticity responses is unclear. We examined the frequency dependency (at 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200 Hz) of long‐term potentiation (LTP) and long‐term depression (LTD) at MPP and LPP synapses in the dentate gyrus (DG) of freely behaving adult rats. We report that whereas the MPP–DG synapses exhibit a predisposition toward the expression of LTP, LPP–DG synapses prefer to express synaptic depression. The divergence of synaptic plasticity responses is most prominent at afferent frequencies of 5, 100, Hz and 200 Hz. Priming with 10 or 50 Hz significantly modified the subsequent plasticity response in a frequency‐dependent manner, but failed to change the preferred direction of change in synaptic strength of MPP and LPP synapses. Evaluation of the expression of GluN1, GluN2A, or GluN2B subunits of the NMDA receptor revealed equivalent expression in the outer and middle thirds of the molecular layer where LPP and MPP inputs convene, respectively, thus excluding NMDA receptors as a substrate for the frequency‐dependent differences in bidirectional plasticity. These findings demonstrate that the LPP and MPP inputs to the DG enable differentiated and distinct forms of synaptic plasticity in response to the same afferent frequencies. Effects are extremely robust and resilient to metaplastic priming. These properties may support the functional differentiation of allocentric and item information provided to the DG by the MPP and LPP, respectively, that has been proposed by others. We propose that allocentric spatial information, conveyed by the MPP is encoded through hippocampal LTP in a designated synaptic network. This network is refined and optimized to include egocentric contextual information through LTD triggered by LPP inputs.
Recognition of ischaemia and infection in diabetic foot ulcer: A deep convolutional neural network based approach
Authors: Das Sujit Kumar , Roy Pinki , Mishra Arnab Kumar
Published: May 2021

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) result in amputation of lower limbs or feet without timely assessment and treatment. The assessment of DFUs is performed by the diagnosis of DFU ischaemia and infection. In this work, a new deep convolutional neural network (CNN) based approach (ResKNet) is proposed to perform such assessment. The proposed network consists of a series of unique residual blocks of 2D convolution, batch normalization, and LeakyReLU with skip connections. It has been experimentally observed that a shallower network with 4 such unique residual blocks (Res4Net) can achieve promising results in ischaemia recognition, with an impressive AUC value of 0.9968. However in case of infection recognition, a network with 7 such residual blocks (Res7Net) achieved the best performance, with an AUC value of 0.8890. Such improvements to the current state‐of‐the‐art results suggests that the proposed approach can provide significant help to medical experts, for automatic assessment of DFU.
Optical coherence hyperspectral microscopy with a single supercontinuum light source
Authors: Chen Wei , Chen Zhongjiang , Xing Da
Published: May 2021

In the paper, we have developed an optical coherence hyperspectral microscopy with a single supercontinuum light source. The microscopy consists of optical coherence tomography (OCT) and hyperspectral imaging (HSI), which can visualize the structural and functional characteristics of biological tissues. The 500 to 700 nm band is selected for HSI and OCT imaging, where HSI enables imaging of oxygen saturation and hemoglobin (Hb) content, while OCT acquires structural characteristics to assess the morphology of biological tissues. The system performance of the optical coherence hyperspectral microscopy is verified by normal mice ears, and the practical applications of the microscopy is further performed in 4T1 and inflammation Balb/c mice ears in vivo. The experimental results demonstrate that the microscopy has potential to provide complementary information for clinical applications.
Haematology in the UK: A 60‐year personal perspective
Authors: Hoffbrand Allan Victor
Published: May 2021

The advances in understanding the pathogenesis, in the diagnosis and classification of blood diseases and in their treatment that have been achieved over the six decades from 1960 to 2020, are reviewed. Emphasis is given to the new techniques, especially in immunology and molecular biology, that have enabled this remarkable progress. The review also highlights the major contributions of UK haematologists and non‐clinical scientists to these advances.
Toward the synthesis of incargranine B and seneciobipyrrolidine. Synthesis of octahydro‐dipyrroloquinoline skeleton via dipolar cycloaddition/amination sequence
Authors: Simic Milena , Jovanovic Predrag , Petkovic Milos , Tasic Gordana , Jovanovic Milos , Savic Vladimir
Published: May 2021

Octahydro‐dipyrroloquinoline skeleton is the building component of a very few naturally occurring compounds. Nevertheless, these natural products have been attractive synthetic targets, and their study commanded development of efficient synthesis of this core. While the reported methods are based on the dimerization procedure of N‐arylpyrrolidines of N‐arylhomopropargyl amines, our approach relay on dipolar cycloaddition/amination sequence. This strategic approach allows sequential introduction of aromatic moieties increasing the product diversity and hence may be useful in further exploration of incargranine B or seneciobipyrrolidine derivatives.
Targeted analysis of eicosanoids derived from cytochrome P450 pathway by high‐resolution multiple‐reaction monitoring mass spectrometry
Authors: Acunha Tanize , Nardini Viviani , Peti Ana Paula Ferranti , Prado Morgana Kelly Borges , Moraes Luiz Alberto Beraldo , Faccioli Lúcia Helena
Published: May 2021

Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) pathway is one of the critical enzymatic via eicosanoid biosynthesis. Nevertheless, their metabolites are far less explored. This pathway plays a crucial role in converting arachidonic acid to hydroxyeicosatetraenoic (HETEs), epoxyeicosatrienoic (EETs), dihydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (DiHETEs), and dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids (DiHETrEs), which mediate several physiological and pathological functions. However, CYP450‐derived eicosanoids are structurally complex, making those analyses a challenge in lipidomics studies. Herein, a high‐resolution multiple‐reaction monitoring (MRMHR) method has been proposed as a powerful tool for the simultaneous analysis of CYP450‐eicosanoids on different biological samples. The developed liquid chromatography (LC)‐MRMHR method was partially validated according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) criteria, demonstrating adequate specificity, linearity, precision, and accuracy. Besides, several biological samples were analyzed to guarantee the feasibility of the method. The proposed strategy may improve the understanding of CYP450‐derived eicosanoids in biological systems, which could be fundamental to reveal new aspects of those in physiologic and pathologic conditions.
RR interval variability in the evaluation of ventricular tachycardia and effects of implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy
Authors: Tsukahara Keita , Oginosawa Yasushi , Fujino Yoshihisa , Honda Toshihiro , Kikuchi Kan , Nozoe Masatsugu , Uchida Takayuki , Minamiguchi Hitoshi , Sonoda Koichiro , Ogawa Masahiro , Ideguchi Takeshi , Kizaki Yoshihisa , Nakamura Toshihiro , Oba Kageyuki , Higa Satoshi , Yoshida Keiki , Yagyu Keishiro , Miyamoto Taro , Yamagishi Yasunobu , Ohe Hisaharu , Kohno Ritsuko , Kataoka Masaharu , Otsuji Yutaka , Abe Haruhiko
Published: May 2021

Background

An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is the most reliable therapeutic device for preventing sudden cardiac death in patients with sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT). Regarding its effectiveness, targeted VT is defined based on the tachyarrhythmia cycle length. However, variations in RR interval variability of VTs may occur. Few studies have reported on VT characteristics and effects of ICD therapy according to the RR interval variability. We aimed to identify the clinical characteristics of VTs and ICD therapy effects according to the RR interval variability.

Methods

We analyzed 821 VT episodes in 69 patients with ICDs or cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators. VTs were classified as irregular when the difference between two successive beats was >20 ms in at least one of 10 RR intervals; otherwise, they were classified as regular. We evaluated successful termination using anti‐tachycardia pacing (ATP)/shock therapy, spontaneous termination, and acceleration between regular and irregular VTs. The RR interval variability reproducibility rates were evaluated.

Results

Regular VT was significantly more successfully terminated than irregular VT by ATP. No significant difference was found in shock therapy or VT acceleration between the regular and irregular VTs. Spontaneous termination occurred significantly more often in irregular than in regular VT cases. The reproducibility rates of RR interval variability in each episode and in all episodes were 89% and 73%, respectively.

Conclusions

ATP therapy showed greater effectiveness for regular than for irregular VT. Spontaneous termination was more common in irregular than in regular VT. RR interval variability of VTs seems to be reproducible.
A rapid rise in relative sea level ~9–7 cal ka bp along the SW Cumbria coast, NW England
Authors: Andrews John T. , Beaumont Helen , Cove Stephe , Heinz Immo , Schroeder Hilke
Published: May 2021

Along the macro‐tidal (10.7 m tide range) SW Cumbria coast in situ rooted tree stumps are infrequently exposed below present‐day low Spring Tide elevations (≤−4.5 m OD). To date these remnants, we conducted a salvage operation at two sites on in situ rooted tree stumps exposed below the lowest tide levels; these sites are no longer exposed. We obtained four radiocarbon dates on these tree remnants and reference an earlier site recovered in 1972. One wood sample was identified as Quercus robur or Q. petraea, while samples from Haverigg and Kirby‐in‐Furness are tree Salix spp. The median group age for the rising relative sea level (RSL) that killed the trees was 8602 ± 243 bp cal a bp with an estimated Mean Tide Level (MTL) of ~≤−9 m. Evidence indicates that RSL rose ~10 m along this section of coast at a rate of between of between 18.5 and 8.7 mm a–1 until ~6800 cal a bp, or earlier, before the rate of global sea level rise fell below that of the local glacial isostatic recovery. The transgression is coeval with rapid collapse and deglaciation of the Laurentide Ice Sheet in Hudson's Bay and slightly lags the global Meltwater Pulse‐1C.
Soil bacterial microbiota predetermines rice yield in reclaiming saline‐sodic soils leached with brackish ice
Authors: Zhang Lu , Ge An‐Hui , Tóth Tibor , An Fenghua , Guo Liangliang , Nie Zhaoyang , Liu Jianbo , Yang Fan , Wang Zhichun
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Saline‐sodic lands threaten the food supply and ecological security in the western Songnen Plain of northeast China, and the gypsum is commonly adopted for restoration. However, the dynamics of soil bacterial community and the correlation with crop yield during restoring processes remain poorly understood. Here, we elucidated the soil chemical properties and bacterial communities and their associations with rice yield under different flue gas desulphurization gypsum (FGDG) application rates combined with brackish ice leaching.

RESULTS

The increased application rate of FGDG generally improved soil reclamation effects, as indicated by soil chemical properties, bacterial diversity, and rice yield. Compared with fresh ice irrigation, the rice yield in brackish ice treatment increased by 15.84%, and the soil alkalinity and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) decreased by 35.19% and 10.30%, respectively. The bacterial alpha diversity significantly correlated and predicted rice yield as early as brackish ice melt, suggesting the bacterial diversity was a sensitive indicator in predicting rice yield. Meanwhile, the bacterial communities in the control possessed a high abundance of oligotrophic Firmicutes, while eutrophic bacterial taxa (e.g. Proteobacteria) were enriched after brackish water irrigation and FGDG application. Moreover, we also established a Random Forest model and identified a bacterial consortium that explained an 80.0% variance of rice yield.

CONCLUSION

Together, our results highlight the reclaiming effect of brackish ice in the saline‐sodic field and demonstrate the sensitivity and importance of the soil bacterial community in predicting crop yield, which would provide essential knowledge on the soil quality indication and bio‐fertilizer development for soil reclamation. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Head and Neck Injuries and Electronic Scooter Use in the United States
Authors: Kappagantu Aditi , Yaremchuk Kathleen , Tam Samantha
Published: May 2021

Objective

To quantify electric scooter injuries encountered in United States emergency departments, focusing on the head and neck, to understand the safety impact of these scooters to improve safe usage.

Study Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional study from January 2009 to December 2019 of patients presenting to United States emergency departments with electric scooter injuries collected from a national database. About 2,823 cases of injuries were related to electric scooter use from January 2009 to December 2019. Stratified weighted counts and incidence rates were estimated for injury characteristics. Piecewise linear regression quantified the yearly change in incidence of injuries before and after introduction of rideshare programs.

Results

The estimated national total of electric scooter cases from 2009 to 2019 was 103,943 (95% CI: 79,650–128,237). Incidence grew in 2019 to 8.63 cases per 100,000 person‐years from 4.46 in 2018 to 2.42 in 2017. Head and neck injuries represented 28.5% of total injuries (weighted estimate = 29,610). The most common age group of head and neck injuries before 2018 was ≤17 years, but injuries in 18‐ to 44‐year‐olds grew significantly to become the most injured group in 2018 to 2019 (P < .001). From 2009 to 2017, incidence of head and neck injuries fell by 0.02 cases per 100,000 person‐years, but cases grew by 1.22 cases per 100,000 person‐years post‐2017 (P < .001).

Conclusion

Injuries following the launch of rideshare electric scooter programs increased significantly, especially in patients 18 to 44 years of age. Head and neck injuries represent many of these injuries. User safety education must be addressed to prevent injury as programs become more pervasive in the United States.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 131:E2784–E2789, 2021
Development of Cushing Syndrome After Serial In‐office Subglottic Steroid Injections
Authors: Silverstein Einav , Bensoussan Yael , O'Dell Karla
Published: May 2021

In‐office subglottic intralesional steroid injections (SILSI) have gained popularity as an adjunct to operating room dilation in the treatment of subglottic stenosis. They are generally thought to have a low risk profile for development of systemic side effects. Here, we present a case of a 55 year old woman who developed symptoms of Cushing syndrome after receiving SILSI, including weight gain, striae, dorsal hump and alopecia. This case illustrates that despite the localized nature of SILSI, there is still a risk of developing systemic effects as a result of the treatment. Laryngoscope, 132:942–943, 2022
A Novel Potent Sleep‐Promoting Effect of Turmeric: Turmeric Increases Non‐Rapid Eye Movement Sleep in Mice Via Histamine H1Receptor Blockade
Authors: Um Min Young , Yoon Minseok , Lee Jaekwang , Jung Jonghoon , Cho Suengmok
Published: May 2021

Scope

Turmeric has a broad spectrum of biological properties; however, the sleep‐promoting effects of turmeric have not yet been reported. Thus, this study aims to investigate the effect of turmeric on sleep and the molecular mechanism underlying this effect.

Methods and Results

Pentobarbital‐induce sleep test and sleep‐wake profile assessment using recorded electroencephalography are used to evaluate the hypnotic effects of the turmeric extract (TE) compared to diazepam on sleep in mice. Additionally, the molecular mechanism of TE's sleep effect is investigated using ex vivo electrophysiological recordings from brain slices in histamine H1 receptor (H1R) knockout mice. Oral administration of TE and diazepam significantly reduce sleep latency and increase non‐rapid eye movement sleep (NREMS) duration without delta activity in mice. Like doxepin, TE inhibits the H1R agonist (2‐pyridylethylamine dihydrochloride)‐induced increase in action potentials in the hypothalamic neurons. In animal tests using neurotransmitter agonists or antagonists, TE effect mimick H1R antagonistic effect of doxepin. Additionally, both reduce sleep latency and increase NREMS in wild‐type mice, although these effects are not observed in H1R knockout mice.

Conclusion

TE has a sleep‐promoting effect owing to reduction in sleep latency and enhancement of NREMS via H1R blockade; therefore, it could be useful in insomnia.
Rapid Clearance of IR783 and Methyl‐β‐cyclodextrin Complex for Improved Tumor Imaging
Authors: Lim Wonbong , Jo Gayoung , Lee Bo Young , Park Min Ho , Hyun Hoon
Published: May 2021

Near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescence cancer imaging with targeted NIR fluorophores holds considerable promise for accurate detection and cancer diagnosis. Among the various NIR heptamethine cyanine dyes reported previously, IR783 as a single small molecule has been widely used for tumor‐targeted imaging without the additional conjugation of targeting moieties. Despite the potential advantages of IR783, the major problems, such as its non‐specific uptake in normal tissues/organs and slow clearance, remain to be solved. A key determinant of sensitivity and detectability in tumor imaging is the improvement of the tumor‐to‐background ratio (TBR). Herein, a simple and effective supramolecular complex self‐assembled from IR783 and methyl‐β‐cyclodextrin is developed to improve tumor imaging accompanied by rapid clearance from the body. The IR783‐cyclodextrin complex allowed for rapid whole body biodistribution, which remarkably reduced non‐specific background uptake, and thus increased the TBR value within 24 h post‐injection. Therefore, this strategy is applicable in combination with many different types of carbocyanine dyes for improved tumor imaging.
Role of ventilator and nasal interface in pressure transmission during neonatal intermittent positive pressure ventilation: A bench study
Authors: Rigotti Camilla , Zannin Emanuela , Dognini Giulia , Dellacà Raffaele , Ventura Maria L.
Published: May 2021

We aimed at evaluating pressure transmission and stability during non‐synchronized neonatal nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) delivered using five mechanical ventilators and three nasal interfaces. An artificial nose–throat model was connected to a mechanical analog of the infant respiratory system and a breath generator. Ventilation was administrated via a nasal mask (NM), short bi‐nasal prongs (SBN), or RAM® cannula. We applied positive end‐expiratory pressures (PEEP) of 5 and 10 cmH2O, inspiratory pressures (PIP) of 15 and 30 cmH2O, inspiratory times of 0.23, 0.42, and 0.57 s. Measurements were performed with leaks of 0, 1.5, and 4 L/min. The pressure was measured at the airways opening (PAW) and the glottis (PGL). The difference between set and delivered pressures (PAW) was less than ±1 cmH2O for all ventilators. We documented a significant difference between PAW and PGL in the presence of leaks. With 4 L/min leaks, PEEP dropped by 43%, 49%, and 63% with NM, SBP, and RAM® cannula, respectively; PIP dropped by 58%, 64%, and 74%. On average, the SD of PEEP fluctuations was ±0.60 and ±2.50 cmH2O for PAW and PGL; the breath‐by‐breath SD of PIP was ±0.77 and ±2.06 cmH2O. During NIPPV, the PIP and PEEP transmission to the glottis is markedly lower than the set values and highly variable. The impact of leaks and nasal interface is much more significant than the differences in ventilators' performance on the efficacy of pressure transmission and stability of non‐synchronized ventilator‐generated NIPPV.
Major surface melting over the Ross Ice Shelf part I: Foehn effect
Authors: Zou Xun , Bromwich David H. , Montenegro Alvaro , Wang Sheng‐Hung , Bai Lesheng
Published: May 2021

West Antarctica (WA), especially the Ross Ice Shelf (RIS), has experienced more frequent surface melting during the austral summer recently. The future is likely to see enhanced surface melting that will jeopardize the stability of ice shelves and cause ice loss. We investigate four major melt cases over the RIS via Polar Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) simulations (4 km resolution) driven by European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Reanalysis 5th Generation (ERA5) reanalysis data and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) observed albedo. Direct warm air advection, recurring foehn effect, and cloud/upper warm air introduced radiative warming are the three major regional causes of surface melting over WA. In this paper, Part I, the first two factors are identified and quantified. The second paper, Part II, discusses the impact of clouds and summarizes all three factors from a surface energy balance perspective. With a high‐pressure ridge located westward towards the Sulzberger Ice Shelf (77° S, 148° W) and a low‐pressure center located between 165° and 180° W, warm marine air from the Ross Sea is advected towards the coastal RIS and leads to surface melting. When the high‐pressure ridge is located farther east towards Marie Byrd Land (120–150° W), the foehn effect can cause a 2–4°C increase in surface temperature on the leeside of the mountains. For three of four melt cases, more than 40% of the melting period experiences foehn warming. Isentropic drawdown is usually the dominant foehn mechanism and contributes up to a 14°C temperature increase, especially when strong low‐level blocking occurs on the upwind side. The thermodynamic mechanism can be important depending on the strength of moisture uptake and condensation on the windward side. Meanwhile, sensible heat flux contributes less to foehn warming, but still plays an important role in the melting. The prediction of future stability of the RIS should include foehn warming as a major driver.
Dancing with death. A historical perspective on coping with Covid‐19
Authors: de Graaf Beatrice , Jensen Lotte , Knoeff Rina , Santing Catrien
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we address the question on how societies coped with pandemic crises, how they tried to control or adapt to the disease, or even managed to overcome the death trap in history. On the basis of historical research, we describe how societies in the western world accommodated to or exited hardship and restrictive measures over the course of the last four centuries. In particular, we are interested in how historically embedded citizens' resources were directed towards living with and to a certain extent accepting the virus. Such an approach of “applied history” to the management of crises and public hazards, we believe, helps address today's pressing question of what adaptive strategies can be adopted to return to a normalized life, including living with socially acceptable medical, hygienic and other pandemic‐related measures.
Behavior of Gas–Slag–Metal Emulsion with Nozzle‐Twisted Lance in Converter Steelmaking Process
Authors: Lv Ming , Li Hang , Lin Tengchang , Xie Kun , Xue Kui
Published: May 2021

Oxygen lance is the key to realize the emulsification of gas–slag–metal in the converter steelmaking process, which determines successful completion of metallurgical tasks. Herein, a 3D full‐size gas–slag–metal coupling model of the nozzle‐twisted lance in a 120t converter is established. The behavioral characteristics of gas–slag–metal of nozzle‐twisted lances (swirl angle 0°/5°/10°/15°) are studied. With the increase in the swirl angle, the axial velocity is reduced; the radial and tangential velocities are increased, and the coverage area of the slag layer, the splashing amount, and its height are reduced. In the longitudinal section, when the swirl angle increases from 0° to 15°, the areas of high‐velocity and dead zones are reduced by 15% and 36%, respectively, and the area of low‐velocity zone is increased by 17%. At different depths of molten bath, with the increase in the swirl angle, the area of high‐velocity zone first increases and then decreases; the area of low‐velocity zone increases, and the area of dead zone decreases. Finally, the industrial experiment with the nozzle‐twisted lance is carried out in a 120t converter. The phosphorus content, the carbon–oxygen product, and the total iron content in slag are all reduced.
Diving inside a hairy black hole
Authors: Grandi Nicolás , Landea Ignacio Salazar
Published: May 2021

Abstract

We investigate the interior of the Einstein-Gauss-Bonnet charged black-hole with scalar hair. We find a variety of dynamical epochs, with the particular important feature that the Cauchy horizon is not present. This makes the violation of the no-hair theorem a possible tool to understand how might the strong cosmic censorship conjecture work.
A planetary boundaries perspective on the sustainability: resilience relationship in the Kenyan tea supply chain
Authors: Mwangi George Mutugu , Despoudi Stella , Espindola Oscar Rodriguez , Spanaki Konstantina , Papadopoulos Thanos
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether agricultural supply chains (ASC) can be simultaneously sustainable and resilient to ecological disruptions, using the Planetary Boundaries theory. The nine different Planetary Boundaries i.e. climatic change, biodiversity loss, biogeochemical, ocean acidification, land use, freshwater availability, stratosphere ozone depletion, atmospheric aerosols and chemical pollution are examined in relation to ASC sustainability and resilience. Kenya’s tea upstream supply chain sustainability and resilience from the ecological point of view is questioned. This study adopts a multi-case study analysis approach of nine producer organisations from Kenya’s tea supply chain. The data from the in-depth semi-structured interviews and a focus group discussion are analysed using thematic analysis. The Kenyan tea supply chain producers are not aware of all the nine planetary boundaries, although these impact on their resilience practices. They are engaged in pursuing both sustainability and resilience practices. They implement mainly environmental practices in relation to sustainability, while only a few of them are implementing resilience practices. The sustainability and resilience concepts were found to be interrelated, but resilience does not improve at the same pace as sustainability. It is suggested that the relationship between sustainability and resilience is non-linear. Limitations and future research avenues are also provided.
Contribution of social media to cetacean research in Southeast Asia: illuminating populations vulnerable to litter
Authors: Coram Amber , Abreo Neil Angelo S. , Ellis Robert P. , Thompson Kirsten F.
Published: May 2021

Litter in the marine environment, in particular plastic, is a significant threat to marine megafauna. Cetaceans are known to ingest or become entangled in marine debris, likely impacting individuals and populations. Southeast Asia is a biodiversity hotspot and harbours a diverse cetacean assemblage. However, there are key knowledge gaps relating to the impact of litter in this region due the lack of experts to survey its vast coastlines. This study aims to address such gaps by using social media, gathering data from Facebook posts relating to cetacean strandings and litter across Southeast Asia between 2009 and 2019. Results show that at least 15 cetacean species have been negatively affected by litter, with ingestion most commonly affecting deep-diving species. Epipelagic and mesopelagic foragers were most vulnerable to entanglement. Davao in the Philippines was identified as a litter-related stranding hotspot. The Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) and pygmy sperm whale (Kogia breviceps) are particularly vulnerable to litter. The combination of social media and peer reviewed literature can help build a more complete picture of the spatial distribution of marine litter and the scale of the impact it has on cetacean populations. In this study we provide details of a valuable online tool for helping to understand the impact of marine litter on cetaceans and other charismatic species that are a focus of community engagement.
Predicting the need of aortic valve surgery in patients with chronic aortic regurgitation: a comparison between cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging and transthoracic echocardiography
Authors: Faber M. , Sonne C. , Rosner S. , Persch H. , Reinhard W. , Hendrich E. , Will A. , Martinoff S. , Hadamitzky M.
Published: May 2021

To compare the ability of cardiac magnetic resonance tomography (CMR) and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) to predict the need for valve surgery in patients with chronic aortic regurgitation on a mid-term basis. 66 individuals underwent assessment of aortic regurgitation (AR) both in CMR and TTE between August 2012 and April 2017. The follow-up rate was 76% with a median of 5.1 years. Cox proportional hazards method was used to assess the association of the time-to-aortic-valve-surgery, including valve replacement and reconstruction, and imaging parameters. A direct comparison of most predictive CMR and echocardiographic parameters was performed by using nested-factor-models. Sixteen patients (32%) were treated with aortic valve surgery during follow-up. Aortic valve insufficiency parameters, both of echocardiography and CMR, showed good discriminative and predictive power regarding the need of valve surgery. Within all examined parameters AR gradation derived by CMR correlated best with outcome [χ2 = 27.1; HR 12.2 (95% CI: 4.56, 36.8); (p < 0.0001)]. In direct comparison of both modalities, CMR assessment provided additive prognostic power beyond echocardiographic assessment of AR but not vice versa (improvement of χ2 from 21.4 to 28.4; p = 0.008). Nested model analysis demonstrated an overall better correlation with outcome by using both modalities compared with using echo alone with the best improvement in the moderate to severe AR range with an echo grade II out of III and a regurgitation fraction of 32% in CMR. This study corroborates the capability of CMR in direct quantification of AR and its role for guiding further treatment decisions particularly in patients with moderate AR in echocardiography.
A new perturbative solution to the motion around triangular Lagrangian points in the elliptic restricted three-body problem
Authors: Boldizsár Bálint , Kovács Tamás , Vanyó József
Published: May 2021

The equations of motion of the planar elliptic restricted three-body problem are transformed to four decoupled Hill’s equations. By using the Floquet theorem, a perturbative solution to the oscillator equations with time-dependent periodic coefficients are presented. We clarify the transformation details that provide the applicability of the method. The form of newly derived equations inherently comprises the stability boundaries around the triangular Lagrangian points. The analytic approach is valid for system parameters $$0 < e \le 0.05$$

0
<
e
≤
0.05

and $$0 < \mu \le 0.01$$

0
<
μ
≤
0.01

where e denotes the eccentricity of the primaries, while $$\mu $$
μ
is the mass parameter. Possible application to known extrasolar planetary systems is also demonstrated.
Creation of pepper doubled haploids and morphological characterization of androgenic plants
Authors: Grozeva Stanislava , Todorova Velichka , Nankar Amol N.
Published: May 2021

The Balkan pepper breeding program aims to use in vitro embryogenesis (anther culture) to develop doubled haploid pepper lines with valuable traits. We analyzed the effectiveness of microspore embryogenesis on 17 pepper genotypes comprised of varieties, breeding lines, and F1hybrids of different varietal types (conical, bell shape, and kapia) and characterized the agronomic traits of newly generated doubled haploid lines. The highest androgenic potential was observed in the variety Stryama and breeding line 560/06 with 9.55 and 13.00% reacted anthers, respectively. Of the 186 regenerated plants, 147 were successfully adapted with a survival index of 79.03%. Flow cytometry analysis showed that the haploid:diploid ratio of regenerants was 1.5:1. All diploid plants were confirmed to be androgenic in origin. There were significant differences in terms of quantitative fruit characteristics of length, width, weight, pericarp weight, pericarp thickness, and productivity per plant among the diploid lines. Also, androgenic lines 21, 23, and 74 derived from Stryama and line 55 obtained from Zlaten medal 7 were distinguished with higher values of some fruit traits compared to initial genotypes. Additionally, several androgenesis lines (Stryama lines 21, 23, and 74, and Zlaten medal 7 line 55) scored higher for some fruit traits compared to the initial genotype. These results show that anther culture is a promising tool for the creation of Balkan pepper breeding lines with improved traits.
Parent Questionnaires in the Evaluation of Pre-School Children Referred for Neuropsychiatric Assessment
Authors: Cederlund Mats
Published: May 2021

One-hundred twenty-four pre-school children referred for assessment to a neuropsychiatric team were included in this study of the Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), ESSENCE-Q, and Conners Abbreviated Parent-Teacher Rating Scale (CAPRS). All three questionnaires showed a good correlation towards severity of symptoms in ASD. The ABC questionnaire was, as has been shown in earlier research less accurate in identifying individuals with ASD having an IQ within the normal range. However the ESSENCE-Q, and the CAPRS proved to identify children with difficulties needing further assessment regardless of intellectual ability. The CAPRS showed a good correlation to severity in ASD indicating difficulties in the regulation of activity and behavior likely to be connected to ASD in pre-school children.
The Maxim of Probabilism, with special regard to Reichenbach
Authors: Rédei Miklós , Gyenis Zalán
Published: May 2021

It is shown that by realizing the isomorphism features of the frequency and geometric interpretations of probability, Reichenbach comes very close to the idea of identifying mathematical probability theory with measure theory in his 1949 work on foundations of probability. Some general features of Reichenbach’s axiomatization of probability theory are pointed out as likely obstacles that prevented him making this conceptual move. The role of isomorphisms of Kolmogorovian probability measure spaces is specified in what we call the “Maxim of Probabilism”, which states that a necessary condition for a concept to be probabilistic is its invariance with respect to measure-theoretic isomorphisms. The functioning of the Maxim of Probabilism is illustrated by the example of conditioning via conditional expectations.