bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photo‐Assisted CO/CO2 Methanation over Ni/TiO2 Catalyst: Experiment and Density Functional Theory Calculation
Authors: Li Yangyang , Rao Zhiqiang , Liu Zhisong , Zeng Junming , Bao Wentao , Wang Zijun , Li Jiangbing , Yu Feng , Dai Bin , Zhou Ying
Published: April 2022

Supported Ni‐based catalysts have been widely used in CO and CO2 methanation processes. However, the catalytic activity of presently available Ni‐supported catalysts remains deficient at the low temperatures required to avoid sintering and carbon deposition. The present work addresses these issues by fabricating TiO2‐nanoparticle‐supported Ni (Ni/TiO2) photothermal catalysts achieve a CO and CO2 conversion of 94 % and 76 %, respectively, under Xe lamp irradiation at 300 °C than those obtained under strictly thermal catalysis conditions. Diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier‐transform spectroscopy results conducted in situ with and without light irradiation demonstrate that photoinduced charge carriers on the surfaces of the Ni/TiO2 nanoparticles enhance the formation of intermediate species in the CO methanation process and the formation of CO2δ− species conducive to CO2 activation in the CO2 methanation process. Moreover, density functional theory calculations with explicitly included charge carriers further demonstrate that electrons are transferred from Ti to Ni in the Ni/TiO2 catalyst under light irradiation. This research advances understanding of CO/CO2 low temperature methanation activity by light irradiation and provides a practical way to address the existing problem for Ni‐based catalysts.
The complement system and autoimmune diseases
Authors: Jia Changhao , Tan Ying , Zhao Minghui
Published: April 2022

The complement system plays a key role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, which usually injures the kidney. More and more studies have shown the pathogenic role and indicated that abnormal activation of the complement system was highly involved in the outbreak of autoimmune diseases. This review mainly introduced recent studies of complement system activation contributing to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, antiphospholipid syndrome, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitides, and so on. Understanding the pathogenic roles of complement activation in various autoimmune diseases will identify potential novel therapeutic targets on complement systems.
Textile‐Bound Copper Silicate as a New Peroxidase‐Like Nanozyme for Organic Dye Decolorization
Authors: Pospiskova Kristyna , Safarik Ivo
Published: April 2022

Copper silicate (CS) bound to a nonwoven textile was prepared using a very simple procedure employing water glass as a precursor and subsequent copper sulfate treatment. Peroxidase‐like activity of the textile‐based CS derivative was detected for the first time. This new nanozyme was employed for the decolorization of three model organic dyes: Bismarck brown Y, Congo red, and methylene blue. Both adsorption and peroxidase‐like dye degradation were involved during the decolorization process.
Enhanced Cycling Performance of All‐Solid‐State Li‐S Battery Enabled by PVP‐Blended PEO‐Based Double‐Layer Electrolyte
Authors: Ao Zhuoran , Zou Youlan , Zou Haiyan , Huang Yuxing , Chen Nantao
Published: April 2022

Despite the high specific capacity of Li−S battery, shuttle effect of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) and safety issue pose a great challenge to realize its commercial application. Replacing liquid electrolyte with poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) ‐based solid‐state electrolyte is considered as a promising method to boost the safety, but the shuttle effect of LiPSs cannot be completely eliminated. In this work, a new kind of double‐layer PEO‐based polymer electrolyte is designed to restrict the LiPSs. The layer next to cathode consists of PEO and poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP). The other layer consists of PEO. PVP with abundant of amide groups has been proved to have strong affinity to LiPSs. The strong interaction between LiPSs and carbonyl groups in amide is verified by Attenuated Total Reflection‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy tests. As a result, the assembled Li−S battery exhibits a specific capacity of 1100 mAh g−1 and capacity retention of 347 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 60 °C and 0.05 C, while the capacity retention of the battery without PVP‐blended PEO electrolyte remains only 27 % at the same conditions.
Overall and net survival of patients with sarcoma between 2005 and 2010: Results from the French Network of Cancer Registries (FRANCIM)
Authors: Amadeo Brice , Penel Nicolas , Coindre Jean‐Michel , Ray‐Coquard Isabelle , Plouvier Sandrine , Delafosse Patricia , Bouvier Anne‐Marie , Gallet Justine , Lacourt Aude , Galvin Angéline , Coureau Gaëlle , Monnereau Alain , Blay Jean‐Yves , Desandes Emmanuel , Mathoulin‐Pélissier Simone ,   for the French Network of Cancer Registries (FRANCIM)
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

Sarcomas are rare, heterogeneous, ubiquitously localized malignancies with many histologic subtypes and genomic patterns. The survival of patients with sarcoma has rarely been described based on this heterogeneity; therefore, the authors' objective was to estimate survival outcomes in patients who had sarcomas using the 2020 version of the World Health Organization classification of soft tissue and bone tumors.

METHODS

Patients older than 15 years who had incident sarcoma diagnosed between 2005 and 2010 were extracted from 14 French population‐based cancer registries covering 18% of the French metropolitan population. Vital status for each patient was actively followed up to June 30, 2013. Net survival (NS) was estimated using the unbiased Pohar‐Perme method.

RESULTS

Overall, 4202 patients were included. NS declined with increasing age at diagnosis. According to topographic groups, large 5‐year NS disparities were observed, ranging from 47% among women with gynecologic sarcomas to 89% among patients with skin sarcomas. Patients with soft tissue, bone, and gastrointestinal sarcomas had 5‐year NS rates of 53%, 61%, and 70%, respectively. Similar heterogeneity was observed according to histologic subtypes, with 5‐year NS ranging from 19% for patients with angiosarcomas to 96% for patients with dermatofibrosarcomas. Patients with sarcoma who displayed missense mutations had a better 5‐year NS (74%); those with MDM2‐amplified sarcomas had the worst NS (45%).

CONCLUSIONS

NS rates in patients with sarcoma are presented here for the first time based on the 2020 World Health Organization classification applied to population‐based registry data. Large prognostic heterogeneity was observed based on age, topographic and histologic groups, and genomic alteration profiles, constituting a benchmark for future studies and clinical trials.
DLMHS: Flow‐based intrusion detection system using deep learning neural network and meta‐heuristic scale
Authors: V Jyothsna , K Munivara Prasad , G GopiChand , D Durga Bhavani
Published: April 2022

The technological growth of the internet gained applications in various areas of human life like banking, public networking, online transactions, and electronic trade. The exponential growth of these services leads to increase of network traffic, and results increase in the number of possible network attacks. The researchers proposed various methodologies to address these from decades. It is evident from the literature that machine learning techniques, ANN methods, and Meta‐Heuristic approaches have gained significant reputation in handling security attacks and these methods depend on features of requests for extracting the knowledge. It is observed that the exponential growth in the volume of transactions in network traffic contains diversified behavior and exhibits deviation in feature values. Hence, it is required to consider the associability of transactions and its feature values. In this paper, a unique set of flow level features is defined to extract the knowledge from the traffic. The diversified behavior of the traffic is addressed with ensemble classifiers with distribution similarity and drift detection. The proposed model derives a threshold value using feature impact scale for the classifiers defined in the ensemble and analyzes the flow characteristics based on the threshold. The Deep Learning Neural Network (DLNN) is used for attack detection at flow level to validate the traffic as normal or attack. The experimental study is carried out with NSL‐KDD benchmark datasets to analyze the statistical parameters. Furthermore, the proposed model (DLMHS) is compared with existing models described in literature.
2.5 V High‐Performance Aqueous and Semi‐Solid‐State Symmetric Supercapacitors Enabled by 3 m Sulfolane‐Saturated Aqueous Electrolytes
Authors: Cheng Xiaolin , Yuan Jingchao , Hu Jiaqi , Chen Shuangqiang , Yan Hao , Yang Weijing , Li Wenrong , Dai Yang
Published: April 2022

Aqueous electrolytes show the potential of application for high‐performance supercapacitors. However, their limited operating voltages set limits for widespread applications. Herein, the feasibility of applying the sulfolane (SL)‐saturated 3 m LiTFSI aqueous electrolytes for supercapacitors is shown. These electrolytes possess high conductivities and wide electrochemical stable windows (ESWs), demonstrating the potential applications in high‐voltage supercapacitors. Activated carbon//3 m LiTFSI SL/Water //activated carbon supercapacitor is assembled to possess a high voltage of 2.5 V and outstanding capacitive performance (106 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, >10 000 cycles). Also, a high areal capacitance up to 1.52 F cm−2 is obtained by applying a high mass loading electrode (13.06 mg cm−2). Furthermore, a flexible symmetric semi‐solid‐state supercapacitor (2.5 V) is fabricated. Impressive performance can be obtained. Thus, the finding suggests a promising electrolyte design for high‐voltage aqueous supercapacitors.
The effect of formation processes on the frequency of palaeolithic cave sites in semiarid zones: Insights from Kazakhstan
Authors: Varis Aristeidis , Miller Christopher E. , Cuthbertson Patrick , Namen Abay , Taimagambetov Zhaken , Iovita Radu
Published: April 2022

Central Asian caves with Palaeolithic deposits are few, but they provide a rich record of human fossils and cultural assemblages that has been used to model Late Pleistocene hominin dispersals. However, previous research has not yet systematically evaluated the formation processes that influence the frequency of Palaeolithic cave sites in the region. To address this deficiency, we combined field survey and micromorphological analyses in the piedmont zone of south Kazakhstan. Here, we present our preliminary results focusing on selected sites of the Qaratau mountains. Sediment cover varies among the surveyed caves, and loess‐like sediments dominate the cave sequences. The preservation of cave deposits is influenced by reworking of cave sediments within the caves but also by the broader erosional processes that shape semiarid landscapes. Ultimately, deposits of potentially Pleistocene age are scarce. Our study provides new data in the geoarchaeologically neglected region of Central Asia and demonstrates that micromorphology has great analytical potential even within the limitations of rigorous survey projects. We outline some of the processes that influence the formation and preservation of cave deposits in Kazakhstan, as well as broader implications for the distribution of Palaeolithic cave sites in Central Asia and other semiarid environments.
Will people in conflict affected zones in Africa have access to COVID‐19 vaccine? A case of Nigeria
Authors: Oladunni Amos Abimbola , Haruna Usman Abubakar , Ijafu Lawrence Gregory , Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo
Published: April 2022

Vaccination is an important and cost‐effective disease prevention and control strategy. Over the years, milestone discoveries in vaccine research and development as well as vaccine delivery systems, have contributed to expanded immunisation coverage and reduction in morbidity and mortality associated with vaccine‐preventable diseases. While this outstanding development in vaccine delivery continues, there are considerable gaps in access to vaccines among populations living in fragile and conflict‐affected zones which appeared to be the fault line of limited vaccine coverage. Despite progress in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccine development, there are concerns about the feasibility of African countries affected by armed conflict and violence to effectively deliver COVID‐19 vaccines at the unprecedented level required to fight against the virus. In this article we discuss the feasibility of access to COVID‐19 vaccine among populations in conflict affected areas in Nigeria including methods that can be applied to reach and vaccinate populations in these settings.
Diabetes mellitus in relation to colorectal tumor molecular subtypes: A pooled analysis of more than 9000 cases
Authors: Harlid Sophia , Van Guelpen Bethany , Qu Conghui , Gylling Björn , Aglago Elom K. , Amitay Efrat L. , Brenner Hermann , Buchanan Daniel D. , Campbell Peter T. , Cao Yin , Chan Andrew T. , Chang‐Claude Jenny , Drew David A. , Figueiredo Jane C. , French Amy J. , Gallinger Steven , Giannakis Marios , Giles Graham G. , Gunter Marc J. , Hoffmeister Michael , Hsu Li , Jenkins Mark A. , Lin Yi , Moreno Victor , Murphy Neil , Newcomb Polly A. , Newton Christina C. , Nowak Jonathan A. , Obón‐Santacana Mireia , Ogino Shuji , Potter John D. , Song Mingyang , Steinfelder Robert S. , Sun Wei , Thibodeau Stephen N. , Toland Amanda E. , Ugai Tomotaka , Um Caroline Y. , Woods Michael O. , Phipps Amanda I. , Harrison Tabitha , Peters Ulrike
Published: April 2022

Diabetes is an established risk factor for colorectal cancer. However, colorectal cancer is a heterogeneous disease and it is not well understood whether diabetes is more strongly associated with some tumor molecular subtypes than others. A better understanding of the association between diabetes and colorectal cancer according to molecular subtypes could provide important insights into the biology of this association. We used data on lifestyle and clinical characteristics from the Colorectal Cancer Family Registry (CCFR) and the Genetics and Epidemiology of Colorectal Cancer Consortium (GECCO), including 9756 colorectal cancer cases (with tumor marker data) and 9985 controls, to evaluate associations between reported diabetes and risk of colorectal cancer according to molecular subtypes. Tumor markers included BRAF and KRAS mutations, microsatellite instability and CpG island methylator phenotype. In the multinomial logistic regression model, comparing colorectal cancer cases to cancer‐free controls, diabetes was positively associated with colorectal cancer regardless of subtype. The highest OR estimate was found for BRAF‐mutated colorectal cancer, n = 1086 (ORfully adj: 1.67, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.36‐2.05), with an attenuated association observed between diabetes and colorectal cancer without BRAF‐mutations, n = 7959 (ORfully adj: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.19‐1.48). In the case only analysis, BRAF‐mutation was differentially associated with diabetes (Pdifference = .03). For the other markers, associations with diabetes were similar across tumor subtypes. In conclusion, our study confirms the established association between diabetes and colorectal cancer risk, and suggests that it particularly increases the risk of BRAF‐mutated tumors.
Histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation for detecting changes in blood hormone levels caused by endocrine disruptors in a 28‐day repeated‐dose study in rats
Authors: Akane Hirotoshi , Toyoda Takeshi , Mizuta Yasuko , Cho Young‐Man , Ide Tetsuya , Kosaka Tadashi , Tajima Hitoshi , Aoyama Hiroaki , Ogawa Kumiko
Published: April 2022

Although measurements of blood hormone levels in rodent toxicological studies can provide important information on the mechanisms of toxicity and extrapolation to humans, there are several difficulties such as large individual differences and limited sample volume. To develop a more simplified method that does not depend solely on blood samples, we examined the possible application of immunohistochemistry for detecting endocrine disruptors in short‐term studies. Aminotriazole (AMT), propylthiouracil (PTU), phenobarbital, aminoglutethimide (AGT), estradiol, and vitamin D3 were administered orally to 6‐week‐old male and female SD rats (five/group) for 28 days. Measurements of serum hormone levels revealed decreases in triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) in the AMT and PTU groups, an increase in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in the AMT, PTU, and AGT groups, and an increase in adrenocorticotrophic hormone in the AGT group. Increased thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal gland weights; histopathological lesions, including follicular hypertrophy/hyperplasia, hypertrophy/vacuolation of anterior pituitary cells, and increased adrenocortical vacuolation were observed in association with the hormone level changes. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a decreased T4 level in the thyroid gland of the AMT and PTU groups and an increased area of TSH positive immunostaining in the pituitary gland of the AMT, PTU, and AGT groups, consistent with the changes in serum T4 and TSH levels, respectively. These results suggest that histopathological analysis and immunohistochemistry for T4 and TSH might be useful and sensitive methods of detecting thyroid dysfunction, and that combining organ weight measurements is a reliable parameter of detecting endocrine disruptors.
Galangin attenuates cadmium‐evoked nephrotoxicity: Targeting nucleotide‐binding domain‐like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 inflammasome, nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2, and nuclear factor kappa B signaling
Authors: Salama Samir A. , Abd‐Allah Gamil M. , Gad Hesham S. , Kabel Ahmed M.
Published: April 2022

The kidney is highly vulnerable to cadmium‐evoked oxidative injury. Galangin is a natural flavone with reported antioxidant properties. This study investigated the potential modulating activity of galangin against cadmium‐induced nephrotoxicity and explored the underlining mechanisms. Western blot analysis, spectrophotometric, ELISA, and histopathological techniques were employed. The results revealed that galangin suppressed tubular injury and improved glomerular function in the cadmium‐intoxicated rats as evidenced by downregulation of kidney injury molecule‐1, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen. Galangin reduced cadmium‐evoked inflammatory response and oxidative stress as indicated by reduced levels of interleukin‐1 beta and TNF‐α, decreased DNA damage, and improved antioxidant potential of the renal tissues. Mechanistically, galangin suppressed the nucleotide‐binding domain‐like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 inflammasome and efficiently decreased caspase‐1 activity in the cadmium‐intoxicated rats. Equally important, it inhibited the cadmium‐induced nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa B and upregulated nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 signaling. The results highlight the ability of galangin to attenuate cadmium‐evoked nephrotoxicity and support its therapeutic implementation although clinical investigations are warranted.
Therapeutic plasma exchange in the intensive care unit and with the critically ill, a focus on clinical nursing considerations
Authors: Baldwin Ian , Todd Sarah
Published: April 2022

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is a blood purification technique removing antibodies and plasma proteins to modulate disease and promote recovery. The procedure has different methods, using a membrane or plasma separator with many elements similar to continuous renal replacement therapy (CCRT) in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). These nursing knowledge and skill sets apply where ICU nurses are providing TPE with increasing need. However, different care models are also in place where TPE is the responsibility of apheresis and nephrology teams visiting the ICU. The plasma replacement volume and prescribing is aligned with published guidelines but is variable when critical illness overlays the primary indication for TPE. There are some important considerations for TPE with respect to anticoagulation, machine settings, prescribing, and associated nursing management. TPE can be performed concurrent with CRRT in acute situations using Y‐piece and valve connectors and is a new and recent advanced blood purification for the ICU.
Nonlinear Population Pharmacokinetics of Anifrolumab in Healthy Volunteers and Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Almquist Joachim , Kuruvilla Denison , Mai Tu , Tummala Raj , White Wendy I. , Tang Weifeng , Roskos Lorin , Chia Yen Lin
Published: April 2022

We characterized the population pharmacokinetics of anifrolumab, a type I interferon receptor–blocking antibody. Pharmacokinetic data were analyzed from the anifrolumab (intravenous [IV], every 4 weeks) arms from 5 clinical trials in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (n = 664) and healthy volunteers (n = 6). Population pharmacokinetic modeling was performed using a 2‐compartment model with parallel linear and nonlinear elimination pathways. The impact of covariates (demographics, interferon gene signature [IFNGS, high/low], disease characteristics, renal/hepatic function, SLE medications, and antidrug antibodies) on pharmacokinetics was evaluated. Time‐varying clearance (CL) was characterized using an empirical sigmoidal time‐dependent function. Anifrolumab exposure increased more than dose‐proportionally from 100 to 1000 mg IV every 4 weeks. Based on population pharmacokinetics modeling, the baseline median linear CL was 0.193 L/day in IFNGS‐high patients and 0.153 L/day in IFNGS‐low/healthy volunteers. After a year, median anifrolumab linear CL decreased by 8.4% from baseline. Body weight and IFNGS were significant pharmacokinetic covariates, whereas age, sex, race, disease activity, SLE medications, and presence of antidrug antibodies had no significant effect on anifrolumab pharmacokinetics. Anifrolumab at a concentration of 300 mg IV every 4 weeks was predicted to be below the lower limit of quantitation in 95% of patients ≈10 weeks after a single dose and ≈16 weeks after stopping dosing at steady state. To conclude, anifrolumab exhibited nonlinear pharmacokinetics and time‐varying linear CL; doses ≥300 mg IV every 4 weeks provided sustained anifrolumab concentrations. This study provides further evidence to support the use of anifrolumab 300 mg IV every 4 weeks in patients with moderate to severe SLE.
X‐linked hypophosphatemic rickets: Description of seven new variants in patients followed up in reference hospitals in Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Sant’ Ana Iara , Torrini Renato , Alves Coelho Maria Caroline , Cantoni Joyce , Madeira Miguel , Ribeiro Márcia
Published: April 2022

Background

X‐linked hypophosphatemic rickets (XLHR) is a rare genetic disease, often delayed in diagnosis due to the low degree of suspicion and limited access to sophisticated diagnostic tools that confirm the diagnosis, such as genetic testing.

Methods

Through a cross‐sectional and observational study, 26 patients with a previously presumptive diagnosis of X‐linked hypophosphatemic rickets (based on clinical history, laboratory findings, and physical examination), were followed for approximately 12 months. During 12 months of follow‐up, only 16 patients underwent genetic testing and enrolled in the study. Previous data were analyzed, such as clinical history (e.g., gender, current age, age of clinical diagnosis, age of admission to hospital, family history, and previous orthopedic surgery), physical exam, imaging tests (e.g., radiological changes) and laboratory tests (e.g., tubular maximum reabsorption rate of phosphate to glomerular filtration rate, alkaline phosphatase, and phosphate levels) at the time of the patient’s admission to IEDE and UFRJ, to corroborate and substantiate our research. These data were extracted from the medical records of the patients.

Results

Among the 16 patients analyzed by molecular biology techniques, the new generation sequencing (NGS), using DNA samples from oral swabs, we obtained seven variants never previously described, which were verified by Sanger sequencing. Among the seven variants never previously described, the most common coding impact was the nonsense mutation. We found two frameshift, one intronic splicing variant, three nonsense, and one deletion splice junction loss. Among patients with new mutations who presented data in the medical record, 100% showed a reduction in TmP/GFR (average of 1.98 mg/dl), the most sensitive laboratory parameter at the time of diagnosis, as well as serum phosphorus (100% had hypophosphatemia on arrival at the referral hospitals––average of 2.4 mg/dl and median 2.3 mg/dl). We also performed NGS on three mothers of the patients with identified mutations. Among these mothers, only one tested negative for the mutation and no family history was reported as well. This mother had serum phosphate of 3.5 mg/dl (normal range: 2.5–4.5 mg/dl) at the time of genetic test collection. The others had a positive test, low serum phosphorus at the time of the molecular test, in addition to a positive family history.

Conclusion

This study describes seven new variants in the PHEX gene and aims to increase the knowledge of the scientific community about the types of mutations involving this gene, increasing information on the genetic basis of this condition, enabling future considerations about genotype–phenotype correlation, in addition to diagnosis accurate and early.
Evaluating the Performance of a Small-Scale Culture System for Delta Smelt
Authors: Tsai Yi-Jiun Jean , Ellison Luke , Stevenson Troy , Mulvaney William J. , Carson Evan W. , Hung Tien-Chieh
Published: April 2022

Since 2008, a refuge population of Delta Smelt Hypomesus transpacificus has been cultured in a conservation hatchery to help protect the imperiled species from extinction. Culture techniques for this population have thus far focused on maximizing genetic diversity in conjunction with large-scale operations (40 larval tanks, 5,954-L larval system, 224,000 larvae capacity), which includes rearing multiple family groups within the same tanks. However, Delta Smelt production and associated research projects would benefit from also being able to rear fish on a smaller scale, such as in individual family groups. Recently, a new culture system and modified culture practices were developed for rearing small groups of larval Delta Smelt. We (1) determined the performance of the small-scale “experimental” rearing system from embryo to 80 d posthatch (dph) and (2) tested whether the performance of the experimental system met the standard set by the large-scale “refuge” rearing system at critical culturing life stages in terms of embryo hatching rate (10 d postfertilization) and larval survival, length, and weight (40 and 80 dph). From 1,000 embryos, the experimental system produced a mean ± SE of 376 ± 44 late-stage larvae. The hatching rate of embryos did not differ between systems. Early-stage larvae (0–40 dph) reared in the experimental system did not differ in survival rate but were longer and heavier than those reared in the refuge system. In contrast, late-stage larvae (41–80 dph) reared in the experimental system had poorer survival and were shorter and lighter than refuge-reared larvae. Thus, the experimental system met the refuge-system benchmark for embryo hatching and exceeded the benchmark in early-larval production, but it could be improved for late-larval rearing. Nevertheless, this small-scale rearing system will provide much-needed flexibility to enhance Delta Smelt culture practices and facilitate future research.
Reinforcement of nest‐like Zn layers on the surface of carbon fibers for rigid polyurethane composites
Authors: Zhou Yilong , Li Weiwei , Liu Huixin , Pei Kaiyuan
Published: April 2022

In this paper, the nest‐like Zn layers on the surface of short carbon fibers (CFs) was obtained by electrodeposition technique to improve the mechanical properties of rigid polyurethane (RPU) composites. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that the desired nest‐like Zn crystals were successfully deposited on the surface of CFs. The X‐ray powder diffractometer (XRD) and contact angle instrument were used to analyze the crystal composition of the layers and the wettability of fiber surface. Compared with pristine short carbon fibers/rigid polyurethane (CFs‐RPU) composites, the tensile strength, bending strength, impact strength and interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of nest‐like Zn layers decorated short carbon fibers/rigid polyurethane (NS‐CFs/RPU) composites were improved simultaneously. Dynamic mechanical test (DMA) results showed that the nest‐like Zn layers on the surface of CFs effectively improved the interfacial bonding strength between CFs and the RPU matrix. In addition, the cross‐section of NS‐CFs/RPU composites showed the metal layer combines well with the matrix. The above results indicated that the improvement of strength and toughness of NS‐CFs/RPU composites was attributed to the pinning effect of the nest‐like Zn layers on the surface of carbon fiber and the increased of crack propagation path.
Impact of timing and dosing of four‐factor prothrombin complex concentrate administration on outcomes in warfarin‐associated intracranial hemorrhage
Authors: Cicci Corey D. , Weiss Ashley , Dang Cathyyen , Stanton Matthew , Feldman Ryan
Published: April 2022

Study objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes associated with time to administration and dose of four‐factor prothrombin complex concentrate (4F‐PCC) in patients with ICH on warfarin.

Design

This was a single‐center retrospective analysis of patients with ICH on warfarin who received 4F‐PCC.

Setting

The site of the study was a large, Level I trauma, academic medical center with a dedicated neurologic intensive care unit and an emergency department (ED) that has approximately 72,000 visits annually.

Patients

Patients were included if they were ≥18 years of age, diagnosed with ICH, had an INR >1 due to warfarin use, and received both 4F‐PCC and IV vitamin K for anticoagulation reversal. Exclusion criteria included patients who were less than 18 years of age, were not currently taking warfarin, had a bleeding site other than ICH, were pregnant or incarcerated, had an inadequate medical record, had a left ventricular assist device, had known liver disease with Child‐Pugh Class C, received anticoagulation with heparin therapy within 24 h of anticoagulation reversal, or did not receive vitamin K within 24 h of hospital admission.

Intervention

Our primary outcome was a composite of hematoma expansion or death due to neurologic injury. Treatment groups were defined as receipt of 4F‐PCC within 0–30, 31–60, 61–90, 91–120 min, or greater than 120 min. Hematoma expansion was defined as any increase in hematoma size as assessed by a radiologist via standard 6‐h CT. Death due to neurologic injury was defined as death prior to a repeat CT being performed or documentation of a neurologic cause of death. Adequate INR reversal (INR ≤1.3 on repeat INR) vs. inadequate INR reversal and weight‐based vs. fixed‐dose 4F‐PCC were also assessed.

Measurements and Main Results

A total of 94 patients met the inclusion criteria. Forty‐one patients (43.6%) met the composite endpoint, including 60% of the 31–60 min group, 47.6% of the 61–90 min group, 71.4% of the 91–120 min group, and 30.6% of the >120‐min group. A significant difference in primary outcome occurred between the 91–120 min and >120‐min groups (71.4% vs. 30.6%; p= 0.005), but this difference was not observed when accounting for disparities in Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). Patients with adequate INR reversal were less likely to meet the primary endpoint than those with inadequate INR reversal (28.1% vs. 58.6%; p= 0.0059). There was less failure of anticoagulation reversal with weight‐based dosing compared with fixed dosing (24.2% vs. 65.0%; p< 0.001).

Conclusions

No difference in clinical outcomes among 4F‐PCC dosing strategies or time windows to administration was observed in patients with GCS <15. Rates of repeat INR ≤1.3 were higher with weight‐based dosing, suggesting investigation of populations in which fixed dosing may be inappropriate is warranted.
Performance of children with ASD on the WISC‐V ancillary index scales
Authors: Dale Brittany A. , Finch William Holmes , Shellabarger Kassie A. R.
Published: April 2022

Ancillary index scales provide assessment professionals the opportunity to conduct a more comprehensive interpretation of a student's performance on the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children, Fifth Edition (WISC‐V); however, little is known about the performance of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) on these scales. The ASD special group population from the standardization sample of the WISC‐V and their demographically matched controls were included in the study (totaln = 124; mean age = 11.5 years). The results of a discriminant analysis revealed that the Auditory Working Memory Index, the Cognitive Proficiency Index, and the Full‐Scale IQ were the best at discriminating among the different groups suggesting that the various groups perform differently on these indexes. School psychologists should calculate all ancillary index scales to obtain the most comprehensive understanding of the cognitive strengths and weaknesses of a child with ASD.
Event‐triggered quantized L2−L∞$$ {\mathfrak{L}}_2-{\mathfrak{L}}_{\infty } $$ filtering for neural networks under denial‐of‐service attacks
Authors: Zhou Youmei , Chang Xiao‐Heng
Published: April 2022

This article deals with the reliable event‐triggered quantized filtering issue for neural networks with exterior interference under denial‐of‐service attacks. In order to lighten the load of communication channels and save network resources, a resilient event‐triggered mechanism and a quantization scheme are employed, simultaneously. By applying a piecewise Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional method, sufficient conditions containing limitations of denial‐of‐service attacks are derived to guarantee that the filter error system is exponentially stable as well as possesses a prescribed disturbance attenuation performance. Then, a co‐design method of the desired quantized filtering gain matrix and event‐triggering parameter can be obtained provided that the linear matrix inequalities have a feasible solution. Finally, the usefulness of the proposed design method is demonstrated by a numerical example.
Non‐Hookean Droplet Spring for Enhancing Hydropower Harvest
Authors: Xue Luanluan , Li Huizeng , Li An , Zhao Zhipeng , Li Kaixuan , Li Mingzhu , Song Yanlin
Published: April 2022

Nonlinear elastic materials are significant for engineering and micromechanics. Droplets with the merits of easy‐accessibility, diversity, and energy‐absorption capability exhibit a variety of non‐Hookean elastic behaviors. Herein, benefiting from the confinement of heterogeneous‐wettable parallel plates, the non‐Hookean mechanics of the droplet‐based spring are systematically investigated. Experimental results and theoretical analysis reveal that the force generated by the spring varies nonlinearly with its deformation, and a force model is accordingly built to depict the mechanics of springs with different sized/numbered droplets and confined by different wettability patterns. Importantly, for the droplet‐based spring, the droplet‐plate contact area expands nonlinearly with the pressing force, which is employed to optimize the output performance of the droplet‐based triboelectric nanogenerator to 226% compared with the control test. This finding deepens the understanding of the non‐Hookean behavior of droplet‐based springs, and sheds light on applications in energy harvesting, micromechanics, and miniature optic/electric devices.
Towards the enhancement of AES IP security using hardware obfuscation technique: A practical approach for secure data transmission in IoT
Authors: Chhabra Surbhi , Lata Kusum
Published: April 2022

The global market of developing Internet of Things (IoT) devices increases rapidly with improved design goals like cost, energy efficiency, and performance. Unfortunately, the above design goals often come at the expense of security. Illegal access to the network, malicious device control, compromised sensitive information, and theft of personal data are main threats to these devices. As a result, the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) is sometimes employed to ensure safe transmission and processing of data in IoT Systems. However, tampering, cloning, and reverse engineering are main concerns that impair the computational complexity of the 128‐bit AES at the hardware level. Recently hardware obfuscation‐based AES has emerged as a comprehensive hardware security approach for reducing threat impacts. The hardware obfuscation schemes efficiently introduce obfuscation keys for AES to conceal its functionality. The Xilinx Vivado 2016.2 software and BASYS‐3 FPGA have been used to implement obfuscated AES approaches in this work. The proposed methods have low resource usage in terms of area and power overhead while providing a high level of security in terms of Hamming Distance of 50% and Avalanche Effect of 40% for each obfuscation method. We have also analyzed the probability of success for brute‐force attacks for proposed methodologies.
Path Planning Algorithm for Unmanned Surface Vehicle Based on Optimized Ant Colony Algorithm
Authors: Cui Yani , Ren Jia , Zhang Yu
Published: April 2022

In order to construct an efficient and reliable global path for unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), this paper proposes a USV global path planning algorithm based on an optimized ant colony algorithm (OACA). The algorithm constructs a USV global path planning model by comprehensively considering energy consumption costs and turning control costs. In order to ensure the adaptability of the model to the task environment, the USV's motion characteristics are analyzed with full consideration of external interference, and on this basis, the characterization of energy consumption costs and turning control costs is completed. In order to obtain the global optimal solution of the model and accelerate the convergence speed of the model, in the initialization process of the ant colony algorithm, the initial pheromone is distributed unevenly by introducing the distance relationship among the intermediate node, the starting point, and ending point to improve the initial search efficiency. In the iterative process of searching for the optimal solution, enhancing the guidance effect of the current optimal solution on the offspring ants by introducing a weight factor to improve the update rule of pheromone, which accelerates the convergence speed of the algorithm. In the last two steps of the deadlock path, the number of lost ants is reduced by introducing a penalty factor to punish the pheromone which can guarantee the diversity of ants, and the algorithm's premature convergence is overcome. The simulation results prove the effectiveness of this algorithm. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Leydig cell function in adult male rats is disrupted by perfluorotetradecanoic acid through increasing oxidative stress and apoptosis
Authors: Tang Yunbing , Ying Yingfen , Zou Cheng , Yan Haoni , Wang Yiyan , Li Huitao , Li Xiaoheng , Xu Zhangye , Lv Jieqiang , Ge Ren‐shan
Published: April 2022

Perfluorotetradecanoic acid (PFTeDA) is a long‐chain perfluoroalkyl compound with increased applications. Its effect on Leydig cell function and its underlying mechanism remain unclear. Male Sprague–Dawley rats (60 days old) were gavaged with PFTeDA at doses of 0, 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg/day from 60 to 87 days after birth. PFTeDA significantly reduced serum testosterone levels at 1 mg/kg and higher doses, while markedly increasing serum luteinizing hormone level at 10 mg/kg and follicle‐stimulating hormone at ≥1 mg/kg. PFTeDA significantly reduced the sperm number at the cauda of epididymis at ≥1 mg/kg. PFTeDA also reduced the number of CYP11A1‐positive Leydig cells due to increased apoptosis shown by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. PFTeDA significantly repressed the expression of Cyp17a1 and Star and their proteins at 1–10 mg/kg, while it increased the expression of Srd5a1 and its protein (an immature Leydig cell biomarker) at 10 mg/kg. PFTeDA markedly increased testicular malondialdehyde level, while inhibiting antioxidants (SOD1, SOD2, and CAT), triggering oxidative stress, thereby further inducing BAX and CASP3 while inhibiting BCL2, which led to cell apoptosis. PFTeDA also reduced DHH level secreted by Sertoli cells, which indirectly affected Leydig cell function. PFTeDA inhibited testosterone secretion in primary Leydig cells in vitro by increasing reactive oxygen species and inducing apoptosis at 50 μM. In conclusion, PFTeDA inhibits the function of Leydig cells by inducing oxidative stress and subsequently stimulating cell apoptosis.
Proportional constrained longitudinal data analysis models for clinical trials in sporadic Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Wang Guoqiao , Liu Lei , Li Yan , Aschenbrenner Andrew J. , Bateman Randall J. , Delmar Paul , Schneider Lon S. , Kennedy Richard E. , Cutter Gary R. , Xiong Chengjie
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Clinical trials for sporadic Alzheimer's disease generally use mixed models for repeated measures (MMRM) or, to a lesser degree, constrained longitudinal data analysis models (cLDA) as the analysis model with time since baseline as a categorical variable. Inferences using MMRM/cLDA focus on the between‐group contrast at the pre‐determined, end‐of‐study assessments, thus are less efficient (eg, less power).

Methods

The proportional cLDA (PcLDA) and proportional MMRM (pMMRM) with time as a categorical variable are proposed to use all the post‐baseline data without the linearity assumption on disease progression.

Results

Compared with the traditional cLDA/MMRM models, PcLDA or pMMRM lead to greater gain in power (up to 20% to 30%) while maintaining type I error control.

Discussion

The PcLDA framework offers a variety of possibilities to model longitudinal data such as proportional MMRM (pMMRM) and two‐part pMMRM which can model heterogeneous cohorts more efficiently and model co‐primary endpoints simultaneously.
Effects of water‐soluble mangosteen extract on cognitive function and neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease (WECAN‐AD): A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Muangpaisan Weerasak , Wiputhanuphongs Puvanant , Jaisupa Nattapon , Junnu Sarawut , Samer Jutima , Moongkarndi Primchanien , Supapueng Orawan , Chalermsri Chalobol , Neungton Neelobol
Published: April 2022

Introduction

The water‐soluble mangosteen pericarp extract's (WME) effect was investigated in Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

The participants received 4 mg/kg/day of WME for 24 weeks (low dose, n = 33), 4 mg/kg/day for 12 weeks and then 8 mg/kg/day for 12 weeks (high dose, n = 33); or a placebo (n = 42). The outcomes were neuropsychiatric test scores, safety, tolerability, and the blood 4‐hydroxynonenal level.

Results

The proportion of participants who achieved the minimum clinically important difference for the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale–Cognitive Subscale (ADAS‐Cog; –2.6 points) at 24 weeks was significantly higher in the low‐dose group (and a trend in the high‐dose group) than in the placebo group. WME appeared safe and well tolerated. At 24 weeks, the 4‐hydroxynonenal level declined in both intervention groups. The participants with a 5% reduction in this level showed greater ADAS‐Cog improvements.

Conclusion

WME is a safe and well‐tolerated cognitive enhancer in AD with varying benefits across individuals based on antioxidative response.
Transforming Yam Seed Systems in West Africa
Authors: Maroya Norbert , Balogun Morufat , Aighewi Beatrice , Mignouna Djana B. , Kumar P. Lava , Asiedu Robert
Published: April 2022

The availability of clean planting materials and functional seed regulatory systems is indispensable for fostering a sustainable seed yam system. The Yam Improvement for Income and Food Security in West Africa (YIIFSWA) project of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) developed the capacity of National Agricultural Research Institutes (NARIs) in their use of standardized Temporary Immersion Bioreactor (TIB) and Vivipak (VP) systems for high-ratio propagation and post-flask handling of yam breeder seed plantlets. Foundation seed was enhanced by supporting five private seed companies in Nigeria and three in Ghana. They were equipped with aeroponic and hydroponic technologies for foundation seed tuber production using single-node vine seedlings. For certified seed, seed yam out-growers were trained in good agronomic practices and entrepreneurship for certified seed tuber production using the adaptive yam minisett technique (AYMT). New certification standards were established for various classes of seed produced using different propagation methods and quality assurance procedures in Ghana and Nigeria. The capacity of the national regulatory organizations in both countries was enhanced to implement seed quality control and certification. Increased public sensitization and advocacy were done to raise awareness among relevant stakeholders to enhance the uptake of the seed propagation technologies and ensure a smooth interaction between the public and private sectors. This chapter summarizes the accomplishments of YIIFSWA in Ghana and Nigeria and the spillover impact on the yam belt of West Africa and beyond. The key lessons could inform the design and implementation of more effective seed projects, especially for vegetatively propagated crops.
A Discussion on Ethical Cybersecurity Issues in Digital Service Chains
Authors: Tronnier Frédéric , Pape Sebastian , Löbner Sascha , Rannenberg Kai
Published: April 2022

Enabling cybersecurity and protecting personal data are crucial challenges in the development and provision of digital service chains. Data and information are the key ingredients in the creation process of new digital services and products. While legal and technical problems are frequently discussed in academia, ethical issues of digital service chains and the commercialization of data are seldom investigated. Thus, based on outcomes of the Horizon2020 PANELFIT project, this work discusses current ethical issues related to cybersecurity. Utilizing expert workshops and encounters as well as a scientific literature review, ethical issues are mapped on individual steps of digital service chains. Not surprisingly, the results demonstrate that ethical challenges cannot be resolved in a general way, but need to be discussed individually and with respect to the ethical principles that are violated in the specific step of the service chain. Nevertheless, our results support practitioners by providing and discussing a list of ethical challenges to enable legally compliant as well as ethically acceptable solutions in the future.
Intelligent Transportation Systems – Models, Challenges, Security Aspects
Authors: Kołodziej Joanna , Hopmann Cornelio , Coppa Giovanni , Grzonka Daniel , Widłak Adrian
Published: April 2022

As cars and other transportation devices become increasingly interconnected, mobility takes on a new meaning, offering new opportunities. The integration of new communications technologies in modern vehicles has generated an enormous variety of data from various communications sources. Hence, there is a demand for intelligent transportation systems that can provide safe and reliable transportation while maintaining environmental conditions such as pollution, CO2 emission, and energy consumption. This chapter provides an overview of the Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) models. Briefly, it discusses the most important features of the systems and challenges, mostly related to the security in data and information processing. Fast anomalies detection and prevention of external attacks may help solve the problems of traffic congestion and road safety to prevent accidents. The chapter contains the description of the realistic Smart Transportation System developed by the Wobcom company and implemented in Wolfsburg (Germany). That system is also used for practical validation of the security service components of the platform created in the GUARD project.