bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemicals: Do they belong on our plate for sustaining healthspan?
Authors: Fahey Jed W. , Kensler Thomas W.
Published: May 2021

That phytochemicals are a critical part of enhancing healthspan is in our minds a linchpin of responsible public health messaging, yet, recent dietary guidelines and strategies for implementing precision nutrition largely ignore roles of phytochemicals. Epidemiological evidence points strongly to beneficial effects of phytochemical‐rich foods on the prevention of essentially all chronic diseases. An extraordinary multitude of phytochemicals have been shown in preclinical settings to be potent allies in our fight against the entire spectrum of chronic diseases and many acute conditions such as infections. Yet unequivocal proof of this concept is problematic due to the nature of the clinical trials that must be part of such a proof. More rigor in the design and implementation of such trials is essential. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, metabolomics, microbiomics, proteomics, and other high‐powered data processing modalities, may inform the phyto‐dynamic actions on very specific metabolic pathways. As phytochemical abundance appears to be declining in our food supply, the need for better and more strategically focused science is great.
Energy and exergy analyses of fabricated solar drying system with smooth and rough surfaces at different conditions: A case study
Authors: Geete Ankur , Singh Yashwant , Rathore Santosh
Published: May 2021

For this experimental work, the solar dryer system has been fabricated. Various experiments have been performed to evaluate the performance of the fabricated dryer system. Energy and exergy concepts have been used for the assessment. And comparative analyses have also been done with smooth and rough surfaces: Grade 150 and Grade 300. This experimental work has been concluded as the maximum collector (i.e., 74°C) and cabinet temperatures (i.e., 66°C) are attained at 13:00 p.m. with Grade 300 surface. Maximum moisture loss (i.e., 35 g) and percentage moisture loss (i.e., 7.53%) are recorded at 13:00 p.m. again with a rough surface. Minimum exergy destruction rate (i.e., 0.294 W) but minimum exergy efficiency (i.e., 20.82%) are found at 17:00 p.m. with a black painted surface, which is not an acceptable condition. Maximum energy efficiency (i.e., 35.98%) and heat removal factor (i.e., 0.56) are obtained at 13:00 p.m. with a rough surface. The best performance from the fabricated solar system is received between 12:00 and 14:00 p.m. This study recommends rough surfaces and 12:00–13:00 p.m. timings for the solar drying system as the performance of the system is better in terms of energy–exergy.
Lovastatin reduces PEL cell survival by phosphorylating ERK1/2 that blocks the autophagic flux and engages a cross‐talk with p53 to activate p21
Authors: Santarelli Roberta , Pompili Chiara , Gilardini Montani Maria Saveria , Romeo Maria Anele , Gonnella Roberta , D'Orazi Gabriella , Cirone Mara
Published: May 2021

Statins are inhibitors of the mevalonate pathway that besides being cholesterol lowering agents, display anti‐cancer properties. This is because cholesterol is an essential component of cell membranes but also because the mevalonate pathway controls protein farnesylation and geranylation, processes essential for the activity of GTPase family proteins. In this study, we found that Lovastatin exerted a dose‐ and time‐dependent cytotoxic effect against PEL cells, an aggressive B cell lymphoma strictly associated with the gammaherpesvirus KSHV and characterized by a poor response to conventional chemotherapies. At molecular level, Lovastatin by dephosphorylating STAT3, induced ERK1/2 activation that inhibited autophagy and phosphorylated p53ser15 that in turn maintained ERK1/2 activated and up‐regulated p21. However, p21 played a pro‐survival role in this setting, as its inhibition by UC2288 further reduced cell survival in PEL cells undergoing Lovastatin treatment. In conclusion, this study suggests that Lovastatin may represent a valid therapeutic alternative against PEL cells, especially if used in combination with p21 inhibitors.
Skeletal responses to romosozumab after 12 months of denosumab
Authors: McClung Michael R. , Bolognese Michael A. , Brown Jacques P. , Reginster Jean‐Yves , Langdahl Bente L. , Shi Yifei , Timoshanko Jen , Libanati Cesar , Chines Arkadi , Oates Mary K.
Published: May 2021

Romosozumab, a monoclonal anti‐sclerostin antibody that has the dual effect of increasing bone formation and decreasing bone resorption, reduces fracture risk within 12 months. In a post hoc, exploratory analysis, we evaluated the effects of romosozumab after 12 months of denosumab in postmenopausal women with low bone mass who had not received previous osteoporosis therapy. This phase 2 trial (NCT00896532) enrolled postmenopausal women with a lumbar spine, total hip, or femoral neck T‐score ≤ −2.0 and ≥ −3.5. Individuals were randomized to placebo or various romosozumab dosing regimens from baseline to month 24, were re‐randomized to 12 months of denosumab or placebo (months 24–36), and then all received romosozumab 210 mg monthly for 12 months (months 36–48). Results for the overall population have been previously published. Here, we present results for changes in bone mineral density (BMD) and levels of procollagen type I N‐terminal propeptide (P1NP) and β‐isomer of the C‐terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (β‐CTX) from a subset of women who were randomized to placebo for 24 months, were re‐randomized to receive denosumab (n = 16) or placebo (n = 12) for 12 months, and then received romosozumab for 12 months. In women who were randomized to placebo followed by denosumab, romosozumab treatment for 12 months maintained BMD gained during denosumab treatment at the total hip (mean change from end of denosumab treatment of 0.9%) and further increased BMD gains at the lumbar spine (mean change from end of denosumab treatment of 5.3%). Upon transition to romosozumab (months 36–48), P1NP and β‐CTX levels gradually returned to baseline from their reduced values during denosumab administration. Transitioning to romosozumab after 12 months of denosumab appears to improve lumbar spine BMD and maintain total hip BMD while possibly preventing the rapid increase in levels of bone turnover markers above baseline expected upon denosumab discontinuation. © 2021 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Impact of Applying a Skin Compression With the Ultrasound Probe on Carotid Artery Strain Elastography
Authors: Chayer Boris , Roy Cardinal Marie‐Hélène , Biron Vicky , Cloutier Noémie , Petit Clara , Dubord Samuel , Allard Louise , Cloutier Guy
Published: May 2021

Objective

To study the impact of varying the external compression exerted by the ultrasound probe when performing a carotid strain elastography exam.

Methods

Nine healthy volunteers (mean age 43 years ±13 years; 6 men) underwent a vascular ultrasound elastography exam using a custom made sound feedback handle embedding the probe, and allowing the sonographer to adjust the applied compression. A clinical standard practice (SP) force was first recorded, and then predetermined compression (PDC) forces were applied, ranging from 0 to 5 N for the left common carotid artery (CCA) or 2–12 N for the left internal carotid artery (ICA). Six carotid elastography features, namely maximum and cumulated axial strains, maximum and cumulated shear strains, cumulated axial translation, and cumulated lateral translation were assessed with noninvasive vascular elastography (NIVE) on near and far walls of carotids. The carotid intima media thickness (IMT) and diameter were also measured.

Results

All elastography features on the near wall of both CCA and ICA decreased statistically significantly as the PDC force increased; this association was also observed for half of the features on the far wall. Three NIVE features at the lowest PDC force (out of 72 that were tested) were statistically significantly different than values at the SP force. Overall, NIVE showed some variance to probe compression with linear regression slopes revealing changes of 10.1%–45.6% in magnitude over the whole compression range on both walls. The maximum IMT for the ICA near wall, and carotid lumen diameters of both CCA and ICA were statistically significantly associated with PDC forces; these features underwent a decrease of 10.2%, 36.2%, and 17.6%, respectively, over the whole range of PDC force increase. Other IMT measurements were not statistically significantly associated with applied PDC forces.

Conclusion

These results suggest the need of technical guidelines for carotid strain elastography. Using the lowest probe compression while allowing a good B‐mode image quality is recommended to improve the robustness of NIVE measurements.
One‐Shot Preparation of Thermoresponsive Comb Polyurethane Hydrogel for Both Excellent Toughness and Large Volume Switching
Authors: Aoki Daisuke , Ajiro Hiroharu
Published: May 2021

Thermoresponsive degradable polyurethane (PU) hydrogels are expected as the next‐generation biomedical devices, although they have an important trade‐off relationship between toughness and thermoresponsive properties. Tough and thermoresponsive comb PU hydrogels are prepared by one‐shot poly‐addition between hexamethylene diisocyanate, triethylene glycol tartrate ester, poly(ethylene glycol) 300 (PEG300), and glycerol. The swelling ratio change between 4 and 40 °C decreases as the proportion of PEG300 increases and is maintained at 600% switching within 30% PEG300. Moreover, the one‐shot preparation of comb PU hydrogel with PEG300 improves toughness up to 100 times compared to the original comb PU hydrogel. Rheological analysis suggests that the bimodal toughening phenomenon for the proportion of PEG300 is due to the network structure and the hydrophobic aggregation domain. This simple toughening method using a heteronetwork based on the kinetic difference of step‐growth PU is expected to apply to other chemical structures.
Computational and experimental investigation on mechanical behavior of zirconia toughened alumina and nickel powder reinforced EN31 based composite material
Authors: Saxena A. , Dwivedi S.P. , Dixit A. , Sharma S. , Srivastava A.K. , Maurya N.K.
Published: May 2021

In the present investigation, EN31 steel alloy based composite material has been developed using zirconia toughened alumina as primary reinforcement material and Ni powder as secondary reinforcement material. The weight percent of zirconia toughened alumina varied from 1.25 % to 10 %. While Ni powder weight percent has been kept uniform (2.5 %). The microstructure of the composite material developed showed uniform distribution of reinforcement particles. Results showed that wettability of zirconia toughened alumina particles improved by adding the nickel particles in EN31 steel alloy. Tensile strength and hardness after the heat treatment were found to be 899 MPa and 120.12 BHN respectively for EN31/6.25 wt.% zirconia toughened alumina/2.5 wt.% nickel composite material. Results showed that tensile strength and hardness of EN31 steel alloy improved about 46.17 % and 100.20 % respectively after adding 6.25 % zirconia toughened alumina and 2.5 % nickel powder. However, ductility reduced by adding the zirconia toughened alumina and nickel powder in EN31 steel alloy. The Finite element analysis has also been carried out to predict the deformation and damage behavior of investigated material during tensile test process. In addition, Brinell hardness test process finite element analysis model is also developed. The finite element analysis results are in good agreement with experimental results with 5 % of percentage difference.
A family of Mexican hat wavelet transforms associated with an isometry in the heat equation
Authors: Srivastava Hari M. , Singh Abhishek , Rawat Aparna , Singh Shubha
Published: May 2021

In this paper, Green's function of the heat equation is used to obtain one of the forms in a family of Mexican hat wavelet transforms. By implementing the theory of reproducing kernels, an isometry in the heat equation is also investigated. Further, a natural inversion is established for the Mexican hat wavelet transform. Several related recent investigations are also considered.
Depression, anxiety and stress among undergraduate students during COVID‐19 outbreak and "home‐quarantine"
Authors: Hamaideh Shaher H. , Al‐Modallal Hanan , Tanash Mu'ath , Hamdan‐Mansour3 Ayman
Published: May 2021

Aim

Many people including students affected physically and psychologically by coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) outbreak and "home‐quarantine." This study aimed at assessing the prevalence and predictors of depression, anxiety and stress among university students in Jordan during "home‐quarantine" due to the outbreak of COVID‐19.

Design

This is a cross‐sectional descriptive study.

Methods

Data were collected from a convenience sample of 1,380 Jordanian university students. A web‐based survey was used to collect data from the participants using the DASS‐21.

Results

The prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress in different levels was 78.7%, 67.9% and 58.7%, respectively, which are higher during “home‐quarantine.” The mean scores of depression, anxiety and stress were at moderate levels. Strong correlations were found between depression, stress and anxiety, with demographic, health‐related, lifestyle variables. Several variables also predicted depression, stress and anxiety.
An initial analysis of the UK Medical Cannabis Registry: Outcomes analysis of first 129 patients
Authors: Erridge Simon , Salazar Oliver , Kawka Michal , Holvey Carl , Coomber Ross , Usmani Azfer , Sajad Mohammed , Beri Sushil , Hoare Jonathan , Khan Shaheen , Weatherall Mark W. , Platt Michael , Rucker James J. , Sodergren Mikael H.
Published: May 2021

Aim

Cannabis‐based medicinal products (CBMPs) are prescribed with increased frequency, despite a paucity of high‐quality randomized controlled trials. The aim of this study is to analyze the early outcomes of the first series of patients prescribed CBMPs in the UK with respect to effects on health‐related quality of life and clinical safety.

Methods

A prospective case series was performed using the UK Medical Cannabis Registry. Primary outcomes were change in patient‐reported outcomes measures (EQ‐5D‐5L, General Anxiety Disorder‐7 (GAD‐7) and Single‐Item Sleep Quality Scale (SQS)) at 1 and 3 months from baseline. The secondary outcome was the incidence of adverse events. Statistical significance was defined by a P‐value <.050.

Results

There were 129 patients included in the final analysis with a mean age of 46.23 (±14.51) years. The most common indication was chronic pain of undefined etiology (n = 48; 37.2%). The median initial cannabidiol and (−)‐trans‐Δ⁹‐tetrahydrocannabinol daily dose was 20.0 mg (Range: 0.0‐768.0 mg) and 3.9 mg (Range: 0.0‐660.0 mg), respectively. Statistically significant improvements in health‐related quality of life were demonstrated at 1 and 3 months in GAD‐7, SQS, EQ‐5D‐5L pain and discomfort subscale, EQ‐5D‐5L anxiety and depression subscale, EQ‐VAS and EQ‐5D‐5L index values(P < .050). There were 31 (24.03%) total reported adverse events.

Conclusion

This study suggests that CBMP therapy may be associated with an improvement in health‐related quality‐of‐life outcomes as self‐reported by patients. CBMPs are also demonstrated to be relatively safe in the short to medium‐term. These findings must be treated with caution given the limited scope of this initial analysis, with no placebo or an active comparator, with further research required.
The Diels‐Alder Approach towards Cannabinoid Derivatives and Formal Synthesis of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
Authors: Hurrle Thomas , Gläser Franziska , Bröhmer Manuel C. , Nieger Martin , Bräse Stefan
Published: May 2021

Based on the Diels‐Alder reaction of vinylchromenes with electron‐poor dienophiles, we developed a strategy for the synthesis of tetrahydrocannabinol derivatives. Substituted vinyl chromenes could be converted with several dienophiles to successfully isolate several complex molecules. These molecules already contain the cannabinoid‐like base structure and further processing of one such derivative led to a precursor of Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol. The most challenging step towards this precursor was an epoxidation step that was ultimately achieved via dimethyl dioxirane.
Mapping of the amniotic fluid proteome of fetuses with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract identifies plastin 3 as a protein involved in glomerular integrity
Authors: Fédou Camille , Camus Mylène , Lescat Ophélie , Feuillet Guylène , Mueller Ilka , Ross Bryony , Buléon Marie , Neau Eric , Alves Melinda , Goudounéche Dominique , Breuil Benjamin , Boizard Franck , Bardou Quentin , Casemayou Audrey , Tack Ivan , Dreux Sophie , Batut Julie , Blader Patrick , Burlet‐Schiltz Odile , Decramer Stéphane , Wirth Brunhilde , Klein Julie , Saulnier‐Blache Jean Sébastien , Buffin‐Meyer Bénédicte , Schanstra Joost P
Published: May 2021

Congenital anomalies of the kidney and the urinary tract (CAKUT) are the first cause of chronic kidney disease in childhood. Several genetic and environmental origins are associated with CAKUT, but most pathogenic pathways remain elusive. Considering the amniotic fluid (AF) composition as a proxy for fetal kidney development, we analyzed the AF proteome from non‐severe CAKUT (n = 19), severe CAKUT (n = 14), and healthy control (n = 22) fetuses using LC–MS/MS. We identified 471 significant proteins that discriminated the three AF groups with 81% precision. Among them, eight proteins independent of gestational age (CSPG4, LMAN2, ENDOD1, ANGPTL2, PRSS8, NGFR, ROBO4, PLS3) were associated with both the presence and the severity of CAKUT. Among those, five were part of a protein–protein interaction network involving proteins previously identified as being potentially associated with CAKUT. The actin‐bundling protein PLS3 (plastin 3) was the only protein displaying a gradually increased AF abundance from control, via non‐severe, to severe CAKUT. Immunohistochemistry experiments showed that PLS3 was expressed in the human fetal as well as in both the fetal and the postnatal mouse kidney. In zebrafish embryos, depletion of PLS3 led to a general disruption of embryonic growth including reduced pronephros development. In postnatal Pls3‐knockout mice, kidneys were macroscopically normal, but the glomerular ultrastructure showed thickening of the basement membrane and fusion of podocyte foot processes. These structural changes were associated with albuminuria and decreased expression of podocyte markers including Wilms' tumor‐1 protein, nephrin, and podocalyxin. In conclusion, we provide the first map of the CAKUT AF proteome that will serve as a reference for future studies. Among the proteins strongly associated with CAKUT, PLS3 did surprisingly not specifically affect nephrogenesis but was found as a new contributor in the maintenance of normal kidney function, at least in part through the control of glomerular integrity. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Engineering a stable complex of ERp44 with a designed peptide ligand for analyzing the mode of interaction of ERp44 with its clients
Authors: Hampe Lutz , Harris Paul W. R. , Rushton Ben , Radjainia Mazdak , Brimble Margaret A. , Mitra Alok K.
Published: May 2021

ERp44, a chaperone of the protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) family cycles between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and cis‐Golgi compartments to act on a cohort of disparate proteins either to ensure their proper cellular localization or for the quality control of the correct assembly. This process involves intermolecular disulfide bond formation between the client protein and the conserved Cys29 in ERp44. We had identified a 9‐amino acid peptide derived from an ERp44 client, adiponectin, as the motif interacting with ERp44 via a highly conserved cysteine (Cys39 of adiponectin). However, in order to reveal detailed insight into the mode of interaction, the generation of sizeable amounts of corresponding thiol‐liganded ERp44 was unsuccessful under ambient conditions. Here we describe the production of a bromopeptide variant of this peptide ligand that led to large amounts of a pure, complex of peptide sufficient for structural studies in which Cys29 of Erp44 is covalently linked via a stable thioether bond. This method can be potentially used to rapidly probe putative, short, interacting peptide regions in other ERp44 clients to reveal their, hitherto unknown, mechanism of interaction with ERp44.
Platelet function‐guided antiplatelet therapy in stroke prevention
Authors: Wisniewski Adam
Published: May 2021

Antiplatelet agents, including aspirin and clopidogrel, remain the primary therapeutic options for secondary prevention of ischaemic non‐embolic stroke. The effectiveness of the applied therapy and the appropriate choice of agent is of key importance to subjects after stroke, contributing to minimising the risk of recurrent vascular events. However, the efficacy of antiplatelet agents is variable and in many cases definitely insufficient.
Chocolate coating: managing an SSRI‐related adverse cutaneous reaction
Authors: Gahir Kalvinder K
Published: May 2021

Adverse cutaneous reactions to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are often mild but may nevertheless prompt drug cessation or switching, with potential loss or delay of desired therapeutic effects for depression and anxiety. This case notes article presents an example of sertraline‐related pruritis for which a precipitating cause was identified, namely chocolate, and which resolved with simple lifestyle advice without the need to stop or change the medication.
Questioning the diagnosis of bipolar disorder: a case report
Authors: Côrte‐Real Beatriz , Braz Inês Souto , Cordeiro Catarina , Martins Paulo
Published: May 2021

Temporal lobe epilepsy may lead to misdiagnosis due to affective, psychotic and/or personality abnormalities. Here, Dr Côrte‐Real et al. investigate such a case of an epileptic patient, initially diagnosed with bipolar disorder whose diagnosis was later changed to focal epilepsy and major neurocognitive disorder highlighting the importance of differential diagnosis in atypical cases.
Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic – a mental health service perspective
Authors: Byrne Andrew , Barber Robert , Lim Chee Hwai
Published: May 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic has been an unprecedented challenge for health care provision. The physical health risks of COVID‐19 infection have been well documented. However, the effects on mental health and mental health care have been and will likely continue to be significant. Throughout the pandemic there has been evidence of increased levels of relapse in people with pre‐existing mental health conditions. There have also been increased mental health problems in people with no previous mental health disorders. Greater carer strain has been seen in mental health services. This has been compounded by decreased or variable access to health care services, 24‐hour care and day care services. There have also been negative effects on the mental health care service and workforce. Significantly disabling post‐COVID‐19 infection has been associated with well‐publicised reports of a chronic condition, described as ‘long COVID’. The pandemic negatively impacted on mental health education, research and training, all embedded in mental health services. It is within this context that this review scrutinises the effects of the pandemic on various aspects of psychiatric services, including patient and carer care, psychiatrists, allied health professionals and wider service provision. Positive and innovative solutions to the pandemic challenges developed by mental health services and their stakeholders are also discussed.
Trehalose supplementation enhanced the biocontrol efficiency of Sporidiobolus pararoseusY16 through increased oxidative stress tolerance and altered transcriptome
Authors: Dhanasekaran Solairaj , Yang Qiya , Godana Esa A , Liu Jizhan , Li Jun , Zhang Hongyin
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

In the process of biological control, the antagonistic yeasts contend with various stresses that negatively influence yeasts' biocontrol efficiency. In the current study, we investigated the effect of trehalose supplementation on the biocontrol efficiency and oxidative stress tolerance of Sporidiobolus pararoseus Y16.

RESULTS

S. pararoseus Y16, an antagonistic yeast cultured in trehalose supplemented medium, exhibited better biocontrol efficiency against Penicillium expansum and Aspergillus tubingensis in table grapes. Trehalose‐treated S. pararoseus Y16 cells showed good proliferation efficiency and oxidative stress tolerance than untreated cells. Increased β‐1,3‐glucanase, catalase, superoxide dismutase activity, and low protein carbonylation were observed in trehalose‐amended S. pararoseus Y16 upon H2O2 exposure. The RNA sequencing results indicated that trehalose significantly altered the transcriptome of S. pararoseus Y16. The GO, KEGG, and COG annotations revealed that the differentially regulated genes corresponded to the various biological process of the yeast.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggested that trehalose use could enhance the biocontrol efficiency and oxidative stress tolerance of S. pararoseus Y16. Trehalose supplementation altered the transcriptome of S. pararoseus Y16, particularly the genes that correspond to amino acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, and protein modification. Thereby the oxidative stress tolerance and biological control efficiency of S. pararoseus Y16 was enhanced by trehalose. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Looking back: Developments in chemical protein synthesis in 2020
Authors: Araman Can
Published: May 2021

The world as we know it changed dramatically in the spring 2020 due to the Covid‐19 pandemic. It was (and still is) a hard time for most of us. Luckily, the power of science enabled a good solution in form of a vaccine in less than 1 year. Of course, not only vaccine development boosted in 2020, but there were also several milestones in peptide chemistry. In this commentary, I would like to draw you away for a moment from the whole pandemic situation to discuss two exciting advances in chemical protein synthesis highlighted in 2020.
Explaining cross‐national differences in leaving home
Authors: van den Berg Lonneke , Kalmijn Matthijs , Leopold Thomas
Published: May 2021

There are large cross‐national differences in the age of leaving home. The literature offers cultural, economic, and institutional explanations for these differences but has not examined all three explanations in one study. We examine these three explanations using data of the European Social Survey (ESS) from 2002 to 2016, supplemented with year‐specific macro‐level indicators from other data sources. We use a dynamic pseudo‐panel design, allowing us to track the home‐leaving behaviour of cohorts born between 1970 and 1999 in 22 European countries. Our findings show that the three sets of explanations are additive rather than competing, each explaining some of the cross‐national differences in leaving home. The cultural context forms the most important explanation for the cross‐national variation. In total, we explain 80% of cross‐national variation in leaving home. Important predictors are religiosity, individualistic family values, change in youth unemployment, GDP and the net replacement rate.
Exploring relationships between weather patterns and observed lightning activity for Britain and Ireland
Authors: Wilkinson Jonathan M. , Neal Robert
Published: May 2021

To understand the climatology of lightning affecting Britain and Ireland and to investigate the large‐scale environments which produce lightning in this region, relationships between mean sea‐level pressure (MSLP) patterns and thunderstorm occurrence are investigated. Using daily data between 2010 and 2019, instances of lightning activity are examined against a set of 30 pre‐defined weather patterns based on MSLP. Metrics relating to thunder area, thunder intensity and duration are introduced and evaluated on the data set. The results show that in summer the largest and long‐lived lightning outbreaks can be linked to three weather patterns. Two of these have strong southerly flow affecting the domain of study. The third is a low‐pressure system centred over the UK with weak pressure gradient, which also produces larger lightning outbreaks during the autumn. In the wintertime, lightning outbreaks appear associated with deeper low‐pressure systems, higher pressure gradients and strong winds in four dominant weather patterns. In spring, lightning occurs mostly in smaller systems and can be of multiple weather patterns. It is hypothesised that the weather pattern number is a good predictor of atmospheric instability. Cases where lightning activity does not match the expected behaviour for a given weather pattern are thought to be due to anomalies or variation in atmospheric instability. Several applications of this work are also discussed, including looking at thunder days over the study domain in past and future climate scenarios.
Maximum hybrid exponentially weighted moving average control chart in the presence of measurement error by using auxiliary information
Authors: Javaid Amjad , Noor‐ul‐Amin Muhammad , Hanif Muhammad
Published: May 2021

Hybrid control charts have become part of statistical process control (SPC) but still, need more emphasis. Researchers are developing charts for joint monitoring of process mean and variance shifts just like Max‐EWMA and their hybrid version using auxiliary information but are ignoring the effect of measurement error on the efficiency of charts. We propose maximum hybrid exponentially weighted moving average with measurement error using auxiliary information and name it Max‐HEWMAMEAI control chart. The efficiency of this chart is proved through calculations of average run lengths () and standard deviations of run lengths (SDRLs) using the Monte Carlo simulations method whereas, and are shown in tabular form. The effect of measurement error on the efficiency of the chart has been analyzed and the impact of multiple measurements to reduce the error effect has been studied using the covariate model. Real‐life application is also part of this article to support the simulation results.
Minimum atomic parameter basis sets for elements 1–54 in a Hartree–Fock setting
Authors: Reinhardt Peter , Popov Ilya , Tchougréeff Andrei L.
Published: May 2021

Basis sets featuring single‐exponent radial functions for each of the nℓ subshells and orthogonality of the radial parts for different values of n within the same ℓ have been generated for elements 1–54 of the periodic table, by minimizing the total energy for different spectroscopic states. The derived basis sets can be fairly dubbed as MAP (minimal atomic parameter/Moscow–Aachen–Paris) basis sets. We show that fundamental properties (total energy, radial expectation values, node positions, etc.) of the generated MAP orbital sets are astonishingly close to those obtained with much larger basis sets known in the literature, without numerical inconsistencies. The obtained exponents follow simple relations with respect to the nuclear charge Z.
The relationship between blood groups and risk of infection with SARS‐CoV‐2 or development of severe outcomes: A review
Authors: Shokri Pourya , Golmohammadi Saeid , Noori Maryam , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria , Carson‐Chahhoud Kristin , Safiri Saeid
Published: May 2021

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is considered a global catastrophe that has overwhelmed health care systems. Since initiation of the pandemic, identification of characteristics that might influence risk of infection and poor disease outcomes have been of paramount interest. Blood group phenotypes are genetically inherited characteristics whose association with certain infectious diseases have long been debated. The aim of this review is to identify whether a certain type of blood group may influence an individual’s susceptibility to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and developing severe outcomes. Our review shows that blood group O protects individuals against SARS‐CoV‐2, whereas blood group A predisposes them to being infected. Although the association between blood groups and outcomes of COVID‐19 is not consistent, it is speculated that non‐O blood group carriers with COVID‐19 are at higher risk of developing severe outcomes in comparison to O blood group. The interaction between blood groups and SARS‐CoV‐2 infection is hypothesized to be as result of natural antibodies against blood group antigens that may act as a part of innate immune response to neutralize viral particles. Alternatively, blood group antigens could serve as additional receptors for the virus and individuals who are capable of expressing these antigens on epithelial cells, which are known as secretors, would then have a high propensity to be affected by SARS‐CoV‐2.
Dual Surface Architectonics for Directed Self‐Assembly of Ultrahigh‐Resolution Electronics
Authors: Li Lingying , Li Wanli , Sun Qingqing , Liu Xuying , Jiu Jinting , Tenjimbayashi Mizuki , Kanehara Masayuki , Nakayama Tomonobu , Minari Takeo
Published: May 2021

The directed self‐assembly of electronic circuits using functional metallic inks has attracted intensive attention because of its high compatibility with extensive applications ranging from soft printed circuits to wearable devices. However, the typical resolution of conventional self‐assembly technologies is not sufficient for practical applications in the rapidly evolving additively manufactured electronics (AMEs) market. Herein, an ultrahigh‐resolution self‐assembly strategy is reported based on a dual‐surface‐architectonics (DSA) process. Inspired by the Tokay gecko, the approach is to endow submicrometer‐scale surface regions with strong adhesion force toward metallic inks via a series of photoirradiation and chemical polarization treatments. The prepared DSA surface enables the directed self‐assembly of electronic circuits with unprecedented 600 nm resolution, suppresses the coffee‐ring effect, and results in a reliable conductivity of 14.1 ± 0.6 µΩ cm. Furthermore, the DSA process enables the layer‐by‐layer fabrication of fully printed organic thin‐film transistors with a short channel length of 1 µm, which results in a large on–off ratio of 106 and a high field‐effect mobility of 0.5 cm2 V−1 s−1.
Comparison of two protocols for insulin administration and fasting time in diabetic dogs anaesthetised for phacoemulsification: A prospective clinical trial
Authors: Norgate Daisy J. , Nicholls Daniel , Geddes Rebecca F. , Dawson Charlotte , Adami Chiara
Published: May 2021

Background: There is a lack of evidence‐based guidelines on perioperative insulin administration and fasting time in diabetic dogs. The aim of this study was to compare two protocols with respect to intraoperative changes in blood glucose (BG) concentrations compared to preoperative values.

Methods: Thirty‐two dogs were included. Dogs of group AM (n = 15) underwent anaesthesia in the morning after 12 hours fasting and received half their usual insulin dose, while dogs of group PM (n = 17) had surgery in the afternoon after 6 hours fasting and received their usual insulin dose; BG was measured before premedication (baseline), after anaesthetic induction, every 30 minutes throughout surgery, at extubation and after anaesthetic recovery. The occurrence of intraoperative complications was recorded.

Results: There were no differences between groups in perioperative changes in BG over time, and in the proportion of dogs experiencing complications. Common complications were hypotension (53 per cent of dogs in either groups), hyperglycaemia (67 and 65 per cent in groups AM and PM) and hyperkalaemia (20 and 11 per cent in groups AM and PM).

Conclusions: Either protocols may be used in diabetic dogs undergoing anaesthesia. The occurrence of hyperkalaemia in the study population supports routine intraoperative monitoring of blood potassium concentration.
A black‐box automated approach to calibrate numerical simulations and optimize cover design: Application to a flow control layer constructed on an experimental waste rock pile
Authors: Crouzal Tom , Pabst Thomas
Published: May 2021

Mining operations often produce large volumes of waste rock to access economically valuable mineralized zones. Waste rock is usually stored in surface piles, the construction and reclamation of which represent a challenge for the industry. A flow control layer (FCL) made of crushed waste rock or sand and constructed on top of each waste rock bench could contribute to control water infiltration, thus improving waste rock pile stability and limiting contamination. An experimental waste rock pile was built and instrumented at the Tio mine (Rio Tinto Fer et Titane, Canada) to evaluate the performance of an FCL in field conditions. Large infiltration tests and rainfall monitoring were carried out, and measured outflow and water contents were used to calibrate numerical simulations. However, data were noisy and sometimes incomplete, and the models were difficult to calibrate. A new automated calibration approach was therefore proposed. An algorithm was developed to automate the numerical simulation calibration, using a black‐box method that involves solving an optimization problem on a function without an analytic form. The approach was applied on measurements obtained from large‐scale infiltration tests and validated using 2 yr of field monitoring data. Finally, the automated approach was adapted to optimize the design of the FCL, and an optimal design (material properties and layer thickness) was recommended based on local climate conditions. The proposed automated method could contribute to reduce the bias induced by manual calibration and allows for rapid multivariable calibration and optimization for a broad spectrum of mine waste cover system applications.
Toward a cost–benefit analysis of quality programs in digital forensic laboratories in the United States
Authors: Hughes Nicolas , Ziemak Erika , Martinez Carisa , Stout Peter
Published: May 2021

There are few quantitative metrics to help evaluate the adoption of quality measures from a laboratory funder's standpoint. This article synthesizes existing data to create a simple prototype for a model to anticipate the costs or savings associated with implementing a quality program, including accreditation, in a digital forensic laboratory. Digital forensic laboratories were selected as an area of interest, as the field is largely unregulated in the United States, there are disparities in the qualifications of practitioners, and there is no empirical understanding of how frequently error occurs in the discipline. The model is used to determine under what conditions there may be anticipated overall financial savings, assuming an annual case throughput of ncases and a lowered frequency of miscarriages of justice, associated with properly implementing an accredited quality system, given by F. While this model does not account for the human cost associated with miscarriages of justice, it demonstrates that the cost of a robust quality system may prove cheaper than the risk and cost associated with the negative outcomes stemming from miscarriages of justice. Under the parameters used for testing, only under two realistic conditions will the implementation of a quality system never realize a benefit: when the cost of a wrongful conviction is relatively small and when forensic error leads to wrongful conviction on the order of 1 in 100,000 cases or less. In all other scenarios, it is possible that, under realistic conditions, laboratory funders may realize savings by implementing an accredited quality program.

This article is categorized under:

Jurisprudence and Regulatory Oversight > Interdisciplinary Collaboration 

Digital and Multimedia Science > Forensic Visualization
E
9 exceptional field theory. Part II. The complete dynamics
Authors: Bossard Guillaume , Ciceri Franz , Inverso Gianluca , Kleinschmidt Axel , Samtleben Henning
Published: May 2021

Abstract

We construct the first complete exceptional field theory that is based on an infinite-dimensional symmetry group. E9 exceptional field theory provides a unified description of eleven-dimensional and type IIB supergravity covariant under the affine Kac-Moody symmetry of two-dimensional maximal supergravity. We present two equivalent formulations of the dynamics, which both rely on a pseudo-Lagrangian supplemented by a twisted self-duality equation. One formulation involves a minimal set of fields and gauge symmetries, which uniquely determine the entire dynamics. The other formulation extends $$ {\mathfrak{e}}_9 $$

e
9

by half of the Virasoro algebra and makes direct contact with the integrable structure of two-dimensional supergravity. Our results apply directly to other affine Kac-Moody groups, such as the Geroch group of general relativity.
Investigation and prediction of open source software evolution using automated parameter mining for agent-based simulation
Authors: Honsel Daniel , Herbold Verena , Waack Stephan , Grabowski Jens
Published: May 2021

To guide software development, the estimation of the impact of decision making on the development process can be helpful in planning. For this estimation, often prediction models are used which can be learned from project data. In this paper, an approach for the usage of agent-based simulation for the prediction of software evolution trends is presented. The specialty of the proposed approach lies in the automated parameter estimation for the instantiation of project-specific simulation models. We want to assess how well a baseline model using average (commit) behavior of the agents (i.e., the developers) performs compared to models where different amount of project-specific data is fed into the simulation model. The approach involves the interplay between the mining framework and simulation framework. Parameters to be estimated include, e.g., file change probabilities of developers and the team constellation reflecting different developer roles. The structural evolution of software projects is observed using change coupling graphs based on common file changes. For the validation of simulation results, we compare empirical with simulated results. Our results showed that an average simulation model can mimic general project growth trends like the number of commits and files well and thus, can help project managers in, e.g., controlling the onboarding of developers. Besides, the simulated co-change evolution could be improved significantly using project-specific data.
The influence of crystalline structure of cellulose in chitosan-based biocomposites on removal of Ca(II), Mg(II), Fe(III) ion in aqueous solutions
Authors: Grząbka-Zasadzińska Aleksandra , Ratajczak Izabela , Król Katarzyna , Woźniak Magdalena , Borysiak Sławomir
Published: May 2021

In this work, the influence of the supermolecular structure of cellulosic fillers in chitosan matrix on the process of adsorption of calcium, magnesium and iron metal ion was analyzed, while using techniques such as: X-ray diffraction, flame atomic absorption spectrometry, FTIR spectroscopy, particle size analysis, and wettability angle. It has been shown that polymorphic form of cellulose significantly affects its particle size. The introduction of cellulosic filler into polymer matrix was responsible for changes in the sorption efficiency of chitosan composites. It was found that materials with nanocellulose II were characterized with the highest efficiency of adsorption. This interesting relationship has not been reported in the literature, yet. It is important especially in terms of designing composite materials with high adsorption capacity. In the presented paper this issue was discussed, taking into account crystallographic aspects as well as changes in the hydrophilicity of the surface of composite materials. Composite materials were also subjected to mechanical tests which showed some interesting increase in tensile strength when compared to the unfilled polymer.
Towards an enhanced indication of provisioning ecosystem services in agro-ecosystems
Authors: Bethwell Claudia , Burkhard Benjamin , Daedlow Katrin , Sattler Claudia , Reckling Moritz , Zander Peter
Published: May 2021

Provisioning ecosystem services play a vital role in sustaining human well-being. Agro-ecosystems contribute a significant share of these services, besides food and fodder and also fuel and fibre as well as regulating and cultural ecosystem services. Until now, the indication of provisioning ecosystem services of agro-ecosystems has been based almost only on yield numbers of agricultural products. Such an indication is problematic due to several reasons which include a disregard of the role of significant anthropogenic contributions to ecosystem service co-generation, external environmental effects and strong dependence on site conditions. We argue for an enhanced indication of provisioning ecosystem services that considers multiple aspects of their delivery. The conceptual base for such an indication has been made by prior publications which have been reviewed. Relevant points were taken up in this article and condensed into a conceptual model in order to develop a more holistic and expanded set of indictors, which was then exemplarily applied and tested in three case studies in Germany. The case studies represent different natural conditions, and the indicator set application showed that ecosystem services (ES) flow—in terms of output alone—does not characterise agro-ecosystems sufficiently. The proposed aspects of provisioning ecosystem services can give a fuller picture, for example, by input-output relationships, as it is possible by just using single indicators. Uncertainties as well as pros and cons of such an approach are elaborated. Finally, recommendations for an enhanced indication of provisioning ecosystem services in agro-ecosystems that can help to integrate agricultural principles with ideas of sustainability and site-specific land use are derived.
Shaping a Smart Transportation System for Sustainable Value Co-Creation
Authors: Zhang Jun , Li Shuyang , Wang Yichuan
Published: May 2021

The smart transportation system (STS) leverages ubiquitous and networked computing to improve the efficiency of urban mobility. Whilst existing IS work has explored various factors influencing STS development, there is a lack of consideration of how value can be created for building a more sustainable STS. Drawing upon the value co-creation theory and stakeholder theory, we seek to understand the socio-technical shaping of the STS ecosystem and how government, firms and citizens collaboratively create sustainable value for designing and implementing STS initiatives. To reach this aim, we carry out a longitudinal case study over 2016–2018 in Shijiazhuang, China. We offer both theoretical and practical explanations on (i) key value facets with regard to sustainable STS design and implementation; and (ii) a holistic view of iterative value co-creation process pushed by key stakeholders. This study makes particular contributions to the IS, marketing and transportation literature by offering a critical understanding of the social dynamics for shaping a big data-driven STS ecosystem.