bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial patterns in U.S. hard red winter wheat quality
Authors: Chen Yikuan , Brorsen B. Wade
Published: April 2022

Hard red winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.; HRWW) is broadly grown in Great Plains and northwestern states in the United States. Knowing how wheat quality characteristics are correlated across space may help wheat buyers locate grain elevators that have wheat with the quality characteristics they need. The objective of this study was to determine the spatial pattern of quality factors of HRWW. Mixed effects regression modeling was used to estimate mean quality characteristics for each location. These estimates are then reported in geospatial maps to illustrate the spatial pattern of quality factors. Expected local wheat quality had strong spatial correlation over a large distance. Residuals show substantial spatial correlation, which suggests that having a survey each year provides new information to wheat buyers. Geospatial maps clearly illustrate the locations in the HRWW growing region that have the primary characteristics of interest that buyers seek.
New Gd(I)/Cs(III) complexes of benzil‐based thiocarbohydrazone macrocyclic ligand: Chemical synthesis, characterization, and study their biological effectiveness as antibacterial, antioxidant, and antiviral additives for polyurethane surface coating
Authors: Eliwa Essam M. , Elgammal Walid E. , Sharaf Mohamed H. , Elsawy Maha M. , Kalaba Mohamed H. , El‐Fakharany Esmail M. , Owda Medhat E. , Abd El‐Wahab Hamada
Published: April 2022

Germs are transmitted in different ways and remain viable or infectious on metal, glass, wood, fabrics, and plastic surfaces for prolonged periods of time. Thus, sterilizing commonly handled everyday objects and public places with high contamination potential is a major global strategy to combat the spread of pathogenic microorganisms. Consequently, our response is development of durable surface‐active coating embedded with new Gd(I)/Cs(III) complexes that derived from condensation of thiocarbohydrazide and benzil precursors. Chemical structures of these complexes were elucidated by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), electron impact ionization (EI‐MS), 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), elemental analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Next, the well‐established complexes were physically mixed with wide‐range applicable polyurethane (PU) varnish as potential biocide agents. With laboratory scale, coating material was loaded into stainless steel and wood panels to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties. In comparison with the blank formulation, our additives enhanced the gloss levels of the developed PU from 75 to 80 gloss unit (GU), and the scratch hardness was increased to reach >2 kg. Meanwhile, all the coated films passed the flexibility bend test and showed none flaking in mechanical adhesion test. Consequently, Gd(I) and Cs(III) metal complexes did not show any undesirable side effects on PU coating performance. Concerning biological screening, macrocyclic Gd(I) and Cs(III) complexes as well as the reformulated PU varnish were assayed for their antibacterial, antioxidant, and antiviral activities. Antibacterial activity of the developed PU was slightly increased than the individual treatments of Gd(I)/Cs(III) complexes by 1–2 mm, although the blank PU showed no obvious activity against all the tested bacterial strains. Antiviral overall results indicated that the Gd(I) and Cs(III) complexes demonstrated higher activity than the developed PU samples against ADeno‐7, CV‐B4, and HSV‐1 viruses in all modes of action, and hence these coordinated compounds could be promising virucidal agents with good biocompatibility.
Facile Synthesis of SnNb2O6@C Composite with Ultrathin Carbon Layer as Anode Materials for High‐Performance Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Tao , Yin Xuemin , Yin Xiuping , Cheng Shuling , Wang Xuan , Zhao Yufeng
Published: April 2022

Niobium‐based oxides have attracted a lot of attention as anode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to their high theoretical specific capacity, excellent rate capability and exceptional safety. However, their poor intrinsic electronic conductivity and sluggish sodium ions diffusion kinetics severely hinder their practical applicability. Here, SnNb2O6@C was successfully prepared by a simple solid‐state reaction technique coupled with carbon coating. HRTEM images show that the SnNb2O6@C particles are covered with uniformly ultrathin amorphous carbon layer of about 1.8 nm, thus improving the electronic conductivity and diffusion coefficient of sodium ions. As anode for SIBs, the as‐obtained SnNb2O6@C material exhibits excellent specific capacity (369 mAh g−1 at a current density of 50 mA g−1) and remarkable rate performance (177 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1), which indicates its good prospect in practical application.
The opposite response of the South Asian high to increasing CO2 at different heights
Authors: Qu Xia , Huang Gang , Hou Hongyu , Chen Zesheng , Du Yan
Published: April 2022

Based on the multimodel ensemble of 22 models in Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6), the present manuscript found that in response to increasing CO2, the South Asian high (SAH) displays the opposite response over its southern region in the upper troposphere: an anticyclonic response at 100 hPa and a weak (insignificant) cyclonic response at 200 hPa. This opposite response is a product of tropospheric warming. In response to increasing CO2, the troposphere warms, with the potential temperatures peaking at 150–200 hPa over the northern Indian Ocean (IO). With transportation by local vertical motion (ascendance over the northeastern IO and descendance over the northwestern IO), various changes in vertical temperature advection with height form at 100 and 200 hPa. Finally, the changes contribute to a decrease in the ω response with pressures at 100 hPa but an increase in the ω response with pressures at 200 hPa over the northwestern IO. Over the northwestern IO, ω change is inversely related to pressure. At 100 hPa, the sign of ω changes with pressure, which yields distinct vorticity forcing over the northeastern and northwestern IO. This causes an anticyclonic response, which may generate zonal vorticity advection and balance the vorticity forcing. At 200 hPa, the contribution is roughly opposite to that at 100 hPa. In addition, although diabatic heating contributes to the vertical profile of ω, it yields the same‐sign vorticity response at 100 and 200 hPa.
Ionic Conductivity versus Particle Size of Ball‐Milled Sulfide‐Based Solid Electrolytes: Strategy Towards Optimized Composite Cathode Performance in All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Cronau Marvin , Duchardt Marc , Szabo Marvin , Roling Bernhard
Published: April 2022

For the fabrication of high‐energy and high‐power all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs), easily synthesizable solid electrolytes are needed, which enable fast ion transport inside the composite cathode as well as good contacts between cathode active material and solid electrolyte particles. Regarding the latter, the size ratio of the particles inside the composite cathode has to be optimized. Here, we use a wet ball milling process for the synthesis of agyrodite‐type Li5.5PS4.5Cl1.5 solid electrolyte particles and study the influence of milling time on particle size and ionic conductivity. With longer milling time, both the solid electrolyte particle size and the ionic conductivity decrease, which exert an opposing influence on the cathode performance. We show that a milling time of approximately 2 h leads to an optimum cathode performance, as this time is sufficient for a favorable particle size ratio, while a strong drop of the ionic conductivity of Li5.5PS4.5Cl1.5 is avoided.
Facile synthesized NaGdF4:Yb,Er peanut‐shaped, highly biocompatible, colloidal upconversion nanospheres
Authors: Ansari Anees A. , Labis Joselito P. , Khan Aslam
Published: April 2022

A facile method was used for the synthesis of peanut‐shaped very emissive NaGdF4:Yb, Er upconversion nanospheres (UCNSs) at lower temperatures with uniform size distribution. Crystallographic structure, phase purity, morphology, thermal robustness, biocompatibility, colloidal stability, surface chemistry, optical properties, and luminesce properties were explored by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), zeta potential, thermogravimetric/differential thermal analysis (TGA/DTA), Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR), ultraviolet (UV)‐visible and photoluminescence spectroscopic tools. XRD pattern verified the construction of a single‐phase, highly‐crystalline NaGdF4 phase with a hexagonal structure. Peanut‐shaped morphology of the sample was obtained from SEM micrographs which were validated from high‐resolution TEM images, to have an equatorial diameter of 170 to 200 nm and a length of 220 to 230 nm, with irregular size, monodispersed, porous structure, and rough surface of the particles. The positive zeta potential value exhibited good biocompatibility along with high colloidal stability as observed from the absorption spectrum. The prepared UCNSs revealed high dispersibility, irregular size peanut‐shaped morphology, rough surface, good colloidal stability, and excellent biocompatibility in aqueous media. A hexagonal phase NaGdF4 doped with ytterbium (Yb) and erbium (Er) UCNSs revealed the characteristics of highly dominant emissions located at 520–525, 538–550, and 659–668 nm corresponding to the 2H11/2 → 4I15/2, 4S3/2 → 4I15/2, and 4F9/2 → 4I15/2 transition of Er3+ ions, respectively, as a result of energy transfer from sensitizer Yb3+ ion to emitter Er3+ ion.
A novel colorimetric fluorescent probe for detecting hydrazine in living cells and zebrafish
Authors: Zhao Zhenhua , Xing Liting , Feng Quanlin , Han Lin
Published: April 2022

Hydrazine (NH2NH2) is a highly toxic organic substance that poses a threat to human health. Monitoring hydrazine with high sensitivity and selectivity is very important. Here, a simple colorimetric fluorescent probe for hydrazine detection, which is a seminaphthorhodafluor derivative containing thiophene‐2‐carboxylic acid ester reaction site, was rationally constructed. The probe itself exhibits weak fluorescence. The fluorescence is significantly enhanced when hydrazine is added. The probe exhibited a broad linear range (0–1 mM) with satisfactory selectivity and sensitivity (limit of detection 36.4 μM), which turned out to be an excellent fluorescent probe for monitoring hydrazine. Additionally, the probe was used to track hydrazine in living cells and zebrafish with great success, and the detection performance was satisfying. These results proved that this type of fluorescent probe with the thiophene‐2‐carboxylic acid ester structure can detect hydrazine with higher selectivity and sensitivity.
Facile titanium(IV) chloride and TBD‐mediated synthesis of N‐aryl‐substituted azacycles from arylhydrazines
Authors: Tran Van Hieu , Hong Wan Pyo , Kim Hee‐Kwon
Published: April 2022

A novel practical synthesis of N‐aryl‐substituted azacycles from arylhydrazines is described. In this method, target azacycles were prepared via reaction of arylhydrazines with cyclic ethers in the presence of both titanium(IV) chloride and 1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene (TBD) as key combined reagents. Using this synthetic protocol with titanium(IV) chloride and TBD, reaction of arylhydrazines with cyclic ethers successfully afforded various N‐aryl‐substituted azacycles in high yield. This facile synthetic method using arylhydrazines will be a promising guide for the synthesis of azacycles from arylhydrazines.
An undergraduate laboratory to detect viruses in human DNA samples using qPCR
Authors: Militello Kevin T. , Nedelkovska Hristina
Published: April 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic has necessitated the need to reliably detect the presence of viral genomes in human clinical samples. The most accurate viral tests involve the use of qPCR. Thus, it is important for students to understand the mechanism to detect viral genomes by qPCR including critical qPCR controls and how to properly interpret qPCR data. Herein, we describe a 2‐week undergraduate laboratory to detect a viral genome in a human DNA sample. The strategy follows a SARS‐CoV‐2 qPCR test in numerous ways. Students are provided isolated DNA representing a mock human patient sample, and determine if a viral genome (bacteriophage lambda) is present using qPCR. A battery of control samples and patient pooling strategies are utilized. The laboratory exercise is successful based on high rates of student success in detecting viral genomes, pre‐quiz and post‐quiz assessments focusing on viral qPCR testing, and positive student comments.
Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: clinical characteristics and outcome
Authors: Volbers Bastian , Walther Katrin , Kurzbuch Katrin , Erdmann Laura , Gollwitzer Stephanie , Lang Johannes D. , Dogan Onugoren Müjgan , Schwarz Michael , Schwab Stefan , Hamer Hajo M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Clinical characteristics, outpatient situation, and outcome in patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) remain to be elucidated.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with PNES after video‐electroencephalography (EEG) monitoring (VEM) 03/2000–01/2016 at the Erlangen Epilepsy Center were surveyed between June 2016 and February 2017. Primary outcome was PNES cessation defined as no PNES episodes within > = 12 months prior to the interview. Secondary outcome variables included quality of life (QoL) and dependency. Sensitivity analysis included patients with proven PNES during VEM without comorbid epilepsy.

Results

Ninety‐nine patients were included (median age 38 (interquartile range (IQR 29–52)) years; 68 (69%) females, follow‐up 4 (IQR 2.1–7.7) years). Twenty‐eight (28%) patients suffered from comorbid epilepsy. Twenty‐five (25%) patients reported PNES cessation. Older age at symptom onset (odds ratio (OR) related to PNES cessation: 0.95 (95% CI 0.90–0.99)), comorbid epilepsy (OR 0.16 (95% CI 0.03–0.83)), anxiety disorder (OR 0.15 (95% CI 0.04–0.61)), and tongue biting (OR 0.22 (95% CI 0.03–0.91)) remained independently associated with ongoing PNES activity after adjustment. Sensitivity analysis (n = 63) revealed depressive disorder (OR 0.03 (95% CI 0.003–0.34)) instead of anxiety as independent predictor, while this seemed relevant only in patients older than 26 years at onset (OR 0.04 (95% CI 0.002–0.78) versus OR 0.21 (95% CI 0.02–1.84) in patients  younger than 26 years). PNES cessation was associated with increased median QoL (8 (IQR 7–9) versus 5.5 (IQR 4–7); p < .001) and an increased frequency of financial independency (14 (56%) versus 21 (28%); p = .01).

Conclusions

We found poor outcomes in PNES especially in older patients at onset with comorbid depressive disorder. Comorbid epilepsy also seems to be a major risk factor of ongoing PNES activity, which in turn affects patients’ daily living.
Study on the reporting quality of randomized controlled trials of flipped classroom in medical education
Authors: Zhang Xiaoli , Zhang Guanran , Yuan Yao , Zhang Yanling
Published: April 2022

With the deepening of medical education reform, the flipped classroom has become a commonly used teaching method. Many randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown that flipped classroom combined with problem‐based learning improves many students' abilities. It remains unclear whether the design and reports of these RCTs comply with specifications. The aim of this study was to provide a systematic assessment of the quality of RCTs investigating the effectiveness of flipped classroom teaching in medical education. Two investigators searched PUBMED and EMBASE and analyzed 15 filtered RCTs addressing flipped classroom in medical education, published between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2021. The overall reporting quality was assessed using the overall quality score (OQS) according to the 2010 CONSORT statement. The search revealed 15 RCTs closely related to flipped classrooms. After analysis, it appeared that least half of them made no mention of half of the OQS items in the CONSORT 2010 statement. Since the flipped classroom is an emerging teaching method, all the retrieved articles were published after 2016. Furthermore, a number of issues that we considered very important were not adequately addressed in the RCT reports. Although the CONSORT 2010 statement was issued 12  years ago, the quality and content of many RCTs are not satisfactory. Our findings suggest that authors need to make more effort to meet the CONSORT statement requirements.
Trendelenburg (Head‐Down tilt) and head rotation: Ultrasonographic effects on the internal jugular vein for catheterization safety
Authors: Hernández‐Garate Yenitzeh Ana Karen , Elizondo‐Omaña Rodrigo Enrique , Casas‐Murillo Claudio Alberto , de Luna‐Vega Raúl Antonio , Elizondo‐Riojas Guillermo , Salinas‐Alvarez Yolanda , Fernandez‐Rodarte Bernardo Alfonso , Guzman‐Lopez Santos , Quiroga‐Garza Alejandro
Published: April 2022

Most guidelines fail to specify patient positioning during central venous catheterization. The objective was to determine the effects of head‐down tilt (Trendelenburg position) and head rotation on the internal jugular vein (IJV). A prospective, observational, longitudinal, and descriptive study using healthy adult volunteers, of both sexes, was performed. The change in position and cross‐sectional areas (CSA) of the right IJV and common carotid artery (CA) were measured by ultrasonography during Trendelenburg position (TP) (0°, 5°, 10°, and 15°) and contralateral head‐rotation (HR) (0°, 45°, and 90°) for a total of 12 positions. The neutral supine position was first, randomizing the other 11 positions, with 5‐min rest intervals in between. Vital signs and symptoms were recorded. A total of 54 volunteers were recruited between the ages of 21 and 32, of which 30 were men. Any degree of TP or HR significantly increased the CSA. The largest area obtained was 1.78 cm2 with a TP15HR90 which did not have a statistical difference with TP10HR45 1.59 cm2. A HR90 tended to displace the IJV medially, overlaying the CA. Any degree of TP or HR will significantly increase CSA or the right IJV. A 5° to 10° TP is recommended when the patient's condition allows it, with a 45° HR, without significantly displacing the IJV anterior to the CCA.
The rumor mill presents a challenge when addressing Title IX obligations
Authors: Porter Michael , Miller Souvanny
Published: April 2022

Institutions of higher education are rightly attuned to addressing information that may implicate their legal obligations under Title IX as well as their desire to ensure their campuses are free from sexual harassment. Higher education administrators can face a perplexing challenge when campus officials learn of “he/she/they said” information — amounting to rumors or chatter — about possible sexual harassment. A proper response requires a nuanced evaluation.
Prepare to successfully navigate an OCR investigation
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: April 2022

CLEARWATER, FLORIDA — No matter what triggers an Office for Civil Rights investigation, perhaps a specific complaint filed by an individual or a report in the media, OCR can remove federal funding if your institution isn't in compliance or doesn't come into compliance as a result of the investigation.
Fashion influencers on Instagram: Determinants and impact of opinion leadership on female millennial followers
Authors: Jegham Salma , Bouzaabia Rym
Published: April 2022

In the fashion industry, the effectiveness of influencer marketing, known as “opinion leaders,” via Instagram remains little known to brand managers and scholars despite the frequent use of such a communication strategy by companies in recent years. Likewise, to the best of our knowledge, no study has jointly addressed the determinants of opinion leadership, specifically source and content factors. This article aims to examine the determinants and impact of opinion leadership on Instagram female millennial followers' intention to adopt fashion recommendations. Data was taken from a survey carried out on 280 followers of a fashion Instagram account. Web‐administered questionnaires were used to collect the data, which was processed using an exploratory factor analysis and a structural equation modeling. The findings indicated that perceived credibility, psychological closeness to the influencer, and perceived originality of content affected respectively opinion leadership. Thus, opinion leadership affected positively consumer's intention to follow recommendations. Moreover, it turned out that perceived product‐influencer congruence had no moderating effect on the link between opinion leadership and the followers' intention to follow recommendations. Then, this study contributes to a better understanding of the determinants of opinion leadership and the impact of opinion leaders on promoting fashion products.
New Bioactive Polyacetylenes from the Marine Sponge Petrosia sp.
Authors: Liu Xin‐Lian , Ding Ya‐Fang , Wang Shu‐Ping , Liu Li , Wang Jie , Yang Fan
Published: April 2022

Three new polyacetylenes, pellynols P (1), Q (2), and R (3) were isolated from the marine sponge Petrosia sp., along with the known compound pellynol H (4). Their structures were determined by analyses of extensive NMR, HR‐MS, and ESI‐MS/MS data. All compounds displayed potent cytotoxicities against human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2, human melanoma A375, and human colorectal carcinoma HT29 cell lines with IC50 values at the range of 1.4–4.4 μM.
Getting Chemical and Biochemical Engineers Excited about Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Grinschek Fabian , Ladewig Bradley , Navarrete Munoz Alexander , Klahn Christoph , Dittmeyer Roland
Published: April 2022

A new course was designed to attract chemical and bioengineers to additive manufacturing and to provide them with an effective approach to this new field. The goal is a wider use of the advantages of additive manufacturing for complex multifunctional components in chemical process engineering. We describe the structure of the course and the experiences from the first two years. Students show great interest and are able to develop their own functional components with assistance. Yet many have deficits in the use of CAD software, which will be remedied in the future through a specific lecture.
An improved weighted principal component analysis integrated with TOPSIS approach for global financial development ranking problem of Middle East countries
Authors: Heydari Ahmad , Niroomand Sadegh , Garg Harish
Published: April 2022

Financial development means some improvements on providing the information about investment possibilities in a region or country. In this study, a new perspective of financial development is considered which is called the multi‐criteria global financial development‐ranking problem. In this problem, some countries from the Middle East are considered to be ranked according to the criteria of global financial development from the world bank database. Due to high number of criteria that may affect the quality of the obtained ranking negatively, a solution methodology in three stages is proposed. First, as a novelty, an improved version of the weighted principal component analysis (PCA) approach is proposed to select the most important criteria from the initial set of criteria and also determine their importance weights. This approach considers both linear and nonlinear relationships of the data instead of considering just linear relationships. Then using the reduced decision matrix and the obtained importance weight values, the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution multi‐criteria decision approach is used to rank the countries of case study. The computational study is done based on the proposed improved weighted PCA approach and the obtained results are analyzed and compared by those of the classical approaches, for example, some versions of the classical weighted PCA approach.
Oblique Packing and Tunable Excitonic Coupling in DNA‐Templated Squaraine Rotaxane Dimer Aggregates
Authors: Barclay Matthew S. , Wilson Christopher K. , Roy Simon K. , Mass Olga A. , Obukhova Olena M. , Svoiakov Rostyslav P. , Tatarets Anatoliy L. , Chowdhury Azhad U. , Huff Jonathan S. , Turner Daniel B. , Davis Paul H. , Terpetschnig Ewald A. , Yurke Bernard , Knowlton William B. , Lee Jeunghoon , Pensack Ryan D.
Published: April 2022

When molecules are aggregated such that their excited states form delocalized excitons, their spatial arrangement, or packing, can be coarsely controlled by templating and finely controlled by chemical substitution; however, challenges remain in controlling their packing on intermediate length scales. Here, we use an approach based on mechanically interlocked molecules to promote an elusive oblique packing arrangement in a series of three squaraine rotaxane dimers. We template the squaraine rotaxane dimers using DNA and observe two excitonically split bands of near‐equal intensity in their absorption spectra – a distinct signature of oblique packing, validated by theoretical modeling of the experimental results. Additional fine control of packing is demonstrated by fluorinating the macrocycle of the rotaxane, which promotes denser packing and stronger excitonic interactions.
DSM revisions: Updates for racial/gender concepts, ASD, NSSI, DMDD, and PTSD
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: April 2022

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM‐5‐TR) released in March includes some updates that affect youth.
Can the Production of 2D Crystals be Driven by Differential Temperature? Research with MoS2 as An Example
Authors: Gao Mingyang , Cao Qinzhe , Yang Ao , Gao Qianyi , Zhang Wen , Zhang Mingjia , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: April 2022

Numerous ingenious top‐down methods have opened a new door to the extensive research of 2D crystals. In this paper, a novel “differential‐temperature exfoliation technology” is proposed to synthesize 2D few‐layer MoS2. Several characterizations are conducted for discussion. The spectroscopic, optical, and purification capacity of the as‐exfoliated layered structures is further studied systematically. This research provides insights into the novel top‐down production and the related potential for environmental protection of few‐layer MoS2.
Diagnostic strategy of fine needle aspiration cytology of cystic cervical lymph node metastasis from papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Li Qin , Liu Ying , Zhang Guofu , Long Hu , Jiang Yong , Su Xueying
Published: April 2022

Background

Cystic cervical lymph node metastasis from papillary thyroid carcinoma (CLMPTC) initially presents as cervical cystic lesions, which are often underdiagnosed as other cystic cervical lesions. There is no comprehensive diagnostic strategy of fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology for CLMPTC.

Methods

The clinical and FNA cytomorphology data of 87 patients with CLMPTC were analyzed. Thyroglobulin (TG) immunostaining was performed in 40 cases; BRAF V600E mutation was evaluated in 42 cases; the thyroglobulin (Tg) levels of aspiration fluids were assessed in 46 cases. Correspondingly, the data of 42 cases with solid cervical lymph node metastasis from papillary thyroid carcinoma (SLMPTC) and 32 cases with other cystic cervical lesions were collected as controls.

Results

Compared with SLMPTC, CLMPTC has less classical PTC cytomorphology characteristics—for example, nuclear crowding/overlapping, nuclear irregular contours, etc. (p < .05). Additionally, micropapillary architecture and histiocyte‐like tumor cells were more often observed in CLMPTC than in SLMPTC (p < .01). The positive rate of TG immunocytochemistry in CLMPTC was 100% (40/40). The positive rate of BRAF V600E mutation in CLMPTC was 81.0% (34/42), which was higher than that in SLMPTC (64.3%; 27/42) (p = .087). The Tg levels in aspiration fluids were significantly higher in CLMPTC (all>500 μg/L) than in other cervical cystic lesions (range: 2.9 μg/L to 40.1 μg/L) (p < .01).

Conclusion

To reduce underdiagnoses of CLMPTC, a reasonable diagnostic strategy, as summarized in this study is needed: according to the number of tumor cells, choosing immunocytochemistry (TG) and/or thyroglobulin in fine needle aspirates testing as auxiliary diagnostic measures.
Utilization of constructed wetland for the removal of heavy metal through fly ash bricks manufactured using harvested plant biomass
Authors: Barya Mahesh Prasad , Kumar Amit , Thakur Tarun Kumar
Published: April 2022

Heavy metal removal by constructed wetland (CWs) is becoming the most efficient and greener technology around the world where plants are used in phytoremediation to degrade, stabilize and remove contaminants from soils, water and waste. The design of CWs for successful phytoremediation in heavy metals contaminated wastewater should not affect the local environment. By‐product generation is another crucial part of phytoremediation's success. In the study, phytoremediation plants (Canna indica and Acorus calamus) biomass has been successfully used in the manufacture of 70 fly‐ash bricks. Further, these bricks are used for CWs to see the efficiency in removing heavy metals pollution. Results found that high rates of Cu (96 %), Zn (95 %), (Fe 93) and Cr (91 %) removal from Canna indica and Acorus calamus were found as compared to the Typha latifoliya, Myriophylhum aquaticum, Ludwigina palustris, Eichhornia crassipes, Schoenoplectus californicus, Cyperus papyrus and Phragmites australis reported by others global researchers which indicates C. indica is the high potential for heavy metal removal and can be strongly used for industrial wastewater. The use of ornamental plants for phytoremediation of contaminated sewage wastewater would also change the landscape of the aquatic environment. This study summarizes viable avenues in the method of using phytoremediation plant biomass for environmental protection and sustainable environmental management.
From fabrication to consolidation of China's political blue‐sky: How can environmental regulations shape sustainable air pollution governance?
Authors: Chu Zhaopeng , Bian Chen , Yang Jun
Published: April 2022

Political blue sky is unsustainable because conflicting interests in China's fragmented authoritarianism (FA) lead to the failure of air pollution regulations. This study explores how to transform China's political blue sky from short‐term fabrication to long‐term consolidation by effective environmental regulations. A two‐pronged mechanism design in the non‐cooperative tripartite evolutionary game is employed to model the dynamic cost–benefit strategy interactions among the central government, local governments, and polluting enterprises for sustainable air pollution control. Policy simulations are conducted to examine the effectiveness of several environmental regulation instruments for leading to the ideal outcome. In baseline scenarios, proper coordination of environmental inspection, vertical and horizontal transfers, and environmental taxation can impel the game to converge to the desired evolutionary equilibrium. In extended scenarios, three long‐term oriented inspirations—double‐dividend effect of environmental tax revenues, public monitoring, and the Porter hypothesis effect of environmental regulations—can improve the efficiency of environmental regulations compared to baseline scenarios. From a methodology perspective, policy simulation in an evolutionary game framework provides a novel addition to the research toolkit for addressing FA.
EGFR ligands synergistically increase IL‐17A‐induced expression of psoriasis signature genes in human keratinocytes via IκBζ and Bcl3
Authors: Dai Xiuju , Murakami Masamoto , Shiraishi Ken , Muto Jun , Tohyama Mikiko , Mori Hideki , Utsunomiya Ryo , Sayama Koji
Published: April 2022

Various epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligands are highly expressed in the epidermis of psoriasis lesions, and abnormal EGFR activation appears to be involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. However, how EGFR signaling contributes to the development of psoriasis is unclear. Interleukin (IL)‐17A, a critical effector of the IL‐23/IL‐17A pathway, increases the expression of psoriasis signature genes in keratinocytes and plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis by inducing IκBζ, a critical transcriptional regulator in psoriasis. In this study, we stimulated primary human keratinocytes with IL‐17A and various EGFR ligands to investigate whether EGFR ligands regulate the expression of psoriasis signature genes. In cultured normal human keratinocytes and a living skin equivalent, EGFR ligands did not induce psoriasis‐related gene expression, but significantly enhanced the IL‐17A‐mediated induction of various psoriasis signature genes, including antimicrobial peptides, cytokines, and chemokines. This was dependent on an EGFR activation‐mediated synergistic increase in IL‐17A‐induced IκBζ expression and was partially mediated by the EGFR‐dependent upregulation of Bcl3. Therefore, EGFR ligands can act as synergistic agents of IL‐17A signaling by stimulating the epidermal production of psoriasis signature genes in psoriasis lesions. This study reveals a potential mechanism by which EGFR signaling contributes to the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
A Bispidine Based CuII/ZnII Heterobimetallic Coordination Polymer
Authors: Lippi Martina , Wadepohl Hubert , Comba Peter , Cametti Massimo
Published: April 2022

The metalloligand approach was used to obtain a novel CuII/ZnII heterobimetallic coordination polymer (CP) 1, based on the carefully designed bispidine ligand L4. CP 1, characterized by single crystal (SC‐) and powder X‐ray diffraction methods (P‐XRD), is constituted by repeating large 32‐membered macrocycles forming ribbon‐like linear arrays and it features a CuII‐coordination site occupied by a markedly labile MeCN. We also describe the synthesis and characterization of intermediate metalloligands (with CuII, FeIII, MnII, and PdII, the latter three obtained as SCs and characterized accordingly) and provide a view of potential intermediate species along the route from metalloligands to heterometallic CPs.
Hydrolytic Stability of Hydroxyphenyl Boronic Acids(HPBAs) and Employment of Poly(HPBAs) for Voltammetric Determination of Fluoride Levels in Dental Formulations and Beverages; Significance of Raw DPV Data for Chemometric Discrimination
Authors: Gulay Der Fatma , Yalcin Gorkem , Ozcan Bulbul Ece , Ileri Hakan , Cihan Betul , Gokcan Miray , Can Esitmez Yekta , Kilinc Emrah
Published: April 2022

Physicochemical and electrochemical properties of hydroxyphenyl boronic acids(HPBAs) and their use in fluoride determinations were investigated. HPBAs were electropolymerized at pH 1.0–11.0 in 40–60 %(v/v) methanol‐buffer. Differential pulse voltammetry(DPV) determinations of fluoride (with 1.0×10−5–1.0×10−4 M linearity based on potential shift) using poly(HPBAs) glassy carbon electrodes(GCEs) have −45.49 to +34.40 % error range. Significance of raw DPV data for chemometric discrimination was investigated by principle component analysis. This is the first demonstration of fluoride determination with poly(HPBAs)GCEs and chemometric discrimination of pharmaceutical formulations so far. Due to the lack of experimental data in literature, current findings will make a contribution to literature.
Improving piecewise linear snow density models through hierarchical spatial and orthogonal functional smoothing
Authors: White Philip A. , Keeler Durban G. , Sheanshang Daniel , Rupper Summer
Published: April 2022

Snow density estimates as a function of depth are used for understanding climate processes, evaluating water accumulation trends in polar regions, and estimating glacier mass balances. The common and interpretable physically derived differential equation models for snow density are piecewise linear as a function of depth (on a transformed scale); thus, they can fail to capture important data features. Moreover, the differential equation parameters show strong spatial autocorrelation. To address these issues, we allow the parameters of the physical model, including random change points over depth, to vary spatially. We also develop a framework for functionally smoothing the physically motivated model. To preserve inference on the interpretable physical model, we project the smoothing function into the physical model's spatially varying null space. The proposed spatially and functionally smoothed snow density model better fits the data while preserving inference on physical parameters. Using this model, we find significant spatial variation in the parameters that govern snow densification.
Comparing executive functions profiles in anorexia nervosa and autism spectrum disorder in adolescence
Authors: Ghiotto Clément , Silva Catarina , Charvin Isabelle , Atzori Paola , Givaudan Marion , Da Fonseca David , Bat‐Pitault Flora
Published: April 2022

Objective

Executive functions (EFs) inefficiencies in anorexia nervosa (AN), especially in set‐shifting and central coherence, suggest a link between AN and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). This study aimed at comparing EF profiles in AN and ASD, and investigating clinical variables associated with the identified EF difficulties.

Method

One hundred and sixty‐two adolescents with AN or ASD completed self‐report questionnaires assessing depression, anxiety and autism symptoms. Parents completed the behaviour rating of executive functions parent‐form (BRIEF‐P). Besides comparing EFs in AN and ASD, we also analysed clinical variables scoring below and above the mean age score across the all sample. We additionally examined the relationship between clinical variables and the BRIEF‐P indexes in AN.

Results

Participants with ASD had greater EF difficulties than participants with AN on all BRIEF‐P scales. In the whole sample, higher autistic features were related to poorer EF. In AN, lower body mass index and particularly higher autism‐spectrum quotient (BRI: Beta = 0.55; p < 0.001 and GEC: Beta = 0.50; p < 0.001) were most strongly associated with poorer EF.

Conclusion

Although participants with ASD showed greater difficulties, autistic traits were related to alter EFs in AN. Exploring further this dimension can undeniably allow better adaptive cognitive remediation programs.
Professor Kenneth John Gregory (1938–2020): The career, contributions and legacy of an eminent geographer and fluvial geomorphologist
Authors: Gurnell Angela , Downs Peter , Tooth Stephen , Wharton Geraldene
Published: April 2022

This paper provides the editorial to accompany a Special Issue of Earth Surface Processes and Landforms produced to honour the memory of Professor Ken Gregory, a key figure in late 20th‐ and early 21st‐century geography and geomorphology. It provides an overview of Ken Gregory's career in research, teaching, and university administration, and elaborates on his key research contributions and legacy across geography and geomorphology. Ten interrelated research themes are identified where Ken made particular impacts: (1) river catchment processes and process–form relationships; (2) wood in rivers; (3) anthropogenic impacts on rivers and catchments; (4) approaches to river management that better respect natural processes; (5) public perceptions of rivers; (6) quantitative palaeohydrology; (7) chronology of river floods and deposits; (8) key physical geography/geomorphology concepts and their metrics; (9) the nature of the discipline of physical geography; and (10) concepts in physical geography teaching. These themes provide a framework to introduce the papers in this Special Issue. Through his publications, leadership style, personality, and positive influence on the many people with whom he interacted, Ken Gregory has left a legacy that will continue to inspire present and future generations of geographers and geomorphologists.
Interference mitigation in multiuserWDM VLCsystems using differential receiver
Authors: Younus Safwan Hafeedh
Published: April 2022

To eliminate the interference between wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) channels in multiuser visible light communication systems, we proposed a differential detection. Four colors laser diodes are utilized as transmitters (Txs). Three colors (channels) are used to send the data and one color is used to convey a control signal in each Tx. The control signal is applied to find the best Tx for each user and to find the level of interference of each WDM data channel. The optical receiver has six photodetectors (PDs). Three PDs receive the data and three PDs receiver control signals. Each optical receiver has three differential amplifiers. The input of each differential amplifier is the difference between the output of two PDs (one PD captures the data and interfering signals and one PD captures control signals). Thus, the amount of the interference that is calculated by the control signals of each color will be removed from each WDM data signal by the differential amplifier. Six users are assumed in our proposed system and each user is allocated one Tx. In this work, reflections up to the third order and mobility of the user are considered while using a simple wide field of view receiver.
Association between stressful life events and grey matter volume in the medial prefrontal cortex: A 2‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Ringwald Kai G. , Pfarr Julia‐Katharina , Stein Frederike , Brosch Katharina , Meller Tina , Thomas‐Odenthal Florian , Meinert Susanne , Waltemate Lena , Breuer Fabian , Winter Alexandra , Lemke Hannah , Grotegerd Dominik , Thiel Katharina , Bauer Jochen , Hahn Tim , Jansen Andreas , Dannlowski Udo , Krug Axel , Nenadić Igor , Kircher Tilo
Published: April 2022

Stressful life events (SLEs) in adulthood are a risk factor for various disorders such as depression, cancer or infections. Part of this risk is mediated through pathways altering brain physiology and structure. There is a lack of longitudinal studies examining associations between SLEs and brain structural changes. High‐resolution structural magnetic resonance imaging data of 212 healthy subjects were acquired at baseline and after 2 years. Voxel‐based morphometry was used to identify associations between SLEs using the Life Events Questionnaire and grey matter volume (GMV) changes during the 2‐year period in an ROI approach. Furthermore, we assessed adverse childhood experiences as a possible moderator of SLEs‐GMV change associations. SLEs were negatively associated with GMV changes in the left medial prefrontal cortex. This association was stronger when subjects had experienced adverse childhood experiences. The medial prefrontal cortex has previously been associated with stress‐related disorders. The present findings represent a potential neural basis of the diathesis‐stress model of various disorders.
Variants in mitochondrial amidoxime reducing component 1 and hydroxysteroid 17‐beta dehydrogenase 13 reduce severity of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in children and suppress fibrotic pathways through distinct mechanisms
Authors: Hudert Christian A. , Adams Leon A. , Alisi Anna , Anstee Quentin M. , Crudele Annalisa , Draijer Laura G. ,   EU‐PNAFLD investigators, Furse Samuel , Hengstler Jan G. , Jenkins Benjamin , Karnebeek Kylie , Kelly Deirdre A. , Koot Bart G. , Koulman Albert , Meierhofer David , Melton Phillip E. , Mori Trevor A. , Snowden Stuart G. , van Mourik Indra , Vreugdenhil Anita , Wiegand Susanna , Mann Jake P.
Published: April 2022

Genome‐wide association studies in adults have identified variants in hydroxysteroid 17‐beta dehydrogenase 13 (HSD17B13) and mitochondrial amidoxime reducing component 1 (MTARC1) as protective against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We aimed to test their association with pediatric NAFLD liver histology and investigate their function using metabolomics. A total of 1450 children (729 with NAFLD, 399 with liver histology) were genotyped for rs72613567T>TA in HSD17B13, rs2642438G>A in MTARC1, and rs738409C>G in patatin‐like phospholipase domain‐containing protein 3 (PNPLA3). Genotype–histology associations were tested using ordinal regression. Untargeted hepatic proteomics and plasma lipidomics were performed in a subset of children. We found rs72613567T>TA in HSD17B13 to be associated with lower odds of NAFLD diagnosis (odds ratio, 0.7; 95% confidence interval, 0.6–0.9) and a lower grade of portal inflammation (p < 0.001). rs2642438G>A in MTARC1 was associated with a lower grade of hepatic steatosis (p = 0.02). Proteomics found reduced expression of HSD17B13 in carriers of the protective ‐TA allele. MTARC1 levels were unaffected by genotype. Both variants were associated with down‐regulation of fibrogenic pathways. HSD17B13 perturbs plasma phosphatidylcholines and triglycerides. In silico modeling suggested p.Ala165Thr disrupts the stability and metal binding of MTARC1. Conclusion: Both HSD17B13 and MTARC1 variants are associated with less severe pediatric NAFLD. These results provide further evidence for shared genetic mechanisms between pediatric and adult NAFLD.
Job satisfaction, performance appraisal, reinforcement and job tasks in medical healthcare professionals during the COVID‐19 pandemic outbreak
Authors: Rana Waleed , Mukhtar Sonia , Mukhtar Shamim
Published: April 2022

Medical healthcare profession is under immense stress since the COVID‐19 pandemic outbreak on global scale, and medical healthcare professionals are enduring occupational challenges which entail frontline and non‐frontline duties, appraisal and satisfaction with their job. The present study examined perceived job satisfaction as a mediating variable that affects the relationship between performance appraisal and reinforcement on performing job tasks among medical healthcare professionals during COVID‐19. A sample (N = 550) was selected from public and private hospitals' medical healthcare professionals (n = 300 males, and n = 250 females). The results showed that perceived job satisfaction mediates the relationship between performance appraisal and reinforcement on job tasks in medical healthcare professionals. This study could help stakeholders, medical board regulations, mental health practitioners, employers and employees to increment sources which could establish feasible healthcare planning and management. The study has significant implications in mental healthcare, crisis management, human resource planning, effective performance and improvement in well‐being of medical workforce's psychological health.
Two‐dimensional‐numerical investigation on the influence of first rib distance from the entrance of channel on Nusselt number and pressure drop
Authors: Shashidhara Sumanth , Thomas Shijo
Published: April 2022

Enhancing the heat transfer coefficient in heat sinks can be achieved by surface modification techniques. Although the addition of ribs increases heat transfer capacity, it also increases pressure drop, lowering the channel's thermohydraulic performance (THP) factor. Rib research began a decade ago, with the majority of studies focusing on new rib designs or factors such as relative roughness pitch, relative roughness height, channel width, and channel height (geometric optimization) to improve THP. The goal of this study is to investigate the influence of the positioning of the first rib from the channel entrance on the Nusselt number, pressure drop, and THP factor with a simple design that could be manufactured easily. Three distinct rib designs are evaluated with rib positioning from the channel entrance, rib thickness, pitch, and Reynolds number as the parameters. It was found that the fluid starts settling up at the ribs as the ribs are moved closer to the channel entry point, thus increasing the pressure drop and reducing the fluid velocity. For the proposed design and dimensions, the Nusselt number increases by 3%–5%, and the pressure drop lowers by 4%–14% when the first rib is placed away from the channel entrance.