bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In‐Situ Hot Oxygen Cleansing and Passivation for All‐Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells Deposited in Ambient to Breakthrough 19% Efficiency
Authors: Wang Kang , Gao Changji , Xu Zhuo , Tian Qingwen , Gu Xiaojing , Zhang Lu , Zhang Shiang , Zhao Kui , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: April 2021

All‐inorganic perovskite CsPbI3 has attracted extensive attention recently because of its excellent thermal and chemical stability. However, its photovoltaic performance is hindered by large energy losses (Eloss) due to the presence of point defects. In addition, hydroiodic acid (HI) is currently employed as a hydrolysis‐derived precursor of intermediate compounds, which often leads to a small amount of organic residue, thus undermining its chemical stability. Herein, an in‐situ hot oxygen cleansing with superior passivation (HOCP) for the triple halide‐mixed CsPb(I2.85Br0.149Cl0.001) perovskite solar cells (abbreviated as CsPbTh3) deposited in an ambient atmosphere to reduce the Eloss to as low as 0.48 eV for the power conversion efficiency (PCE) to reach 19.65% is demonstrated. It is found that the hot oxygen treatment effectively removes the organic residues. Meanwhile, it passivates halide vacancies, hence reduces the trap states and nonradiative recombination losses within the perovskite layer. As a result, the PCE is increased significantly from 17.15% to 19.65% under 1 sun illumination with an open‐circuit voltage enlarged to 1.23 from 1.14 V, which corresponds to an Eloss reduction from 0.57 to 0.48 eV. Also, the HOCP‐treated devices exhibit better long‐term stability. This insight should pave a way for decreasing nonradiative charge recombination losses for high‐performance inorganic perovskite photoelectronics.
Engineering 2D Arsenic‐Phosphorus Theranostic Nanosheets
Authors: Hu Ruizhi , Dai Chen , Wang Chunmei , Lin Jie , Hu Hui , Li Zhifang , Lin Han , Ding Li , Chen Yu , Zhang Bo
Published: April 2021

As an anticancer drugs, arsenic trioxide (ATO) has been certified to efficiently treat refractory acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Unfortunately it suffers from limited therapeutic potency for solid tumors due to its in vivo restricted administration dose and rapid renal clearance. Herein, distinct 2D arsenic‐phosphorus (AsP) nanosheets are engineered by adopting an alloy strategy followed by exfoliation, which can confine toxic arsenic into AsP crystals, thus significantly improving the biosafety and biocompatibility of arsenic‐based chemotherapeutic drugs. Of particular note, the high light absorption and strong photothermal‐conversion efficiency (37.6%) in the second near infrared biowindow (NIR‐II) of AsP nanosheets not only endow them with desirable contrast‐enhanced photoacoustic imaging properties, but also achieve efficient local tumor hyperthermia, which further synergistically triggers the in‐situ transformation from low toxic/nontoxic AsP crystals into highly toxic arsenic species, exerting a strong arsenic‐mediated antineoplastic effect. Both in vitro and in vivo data verify the synergy between photonic therapy in NIR‐II and enhanced chemotherapy as enabled by AsP nanosheets, paving the way for efficient nanomedicine‐enabled arsenic‐based chemotherapeutic tumor treatment.
Perovskite Oxides for Cathodic Electrocatalysis of Energy‐Related Gases: From O2 to CO2 and N2
Authors: Zhang Haiyan , Xu Yu , Lu Min , Xie Xiaoji , Huang Ling
Published: April 2021

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), and nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) are important cathodic reactions for renewable fuel production and energy conversion technologies. However, the sluggish kinetics of these reactions hinders the practical applications of the relevant technologies. Perovskite oxides, a promising family of catalysts with great flexibility in composition and structure engineering, exhibit versatility in electrocatalysis of these reactions. In this review, beginning with a brief introduction on the fundamentals of ORR, CO2RR, and NRR, the mechanistic understanding of the electrocatalysis by perovskite oxides is discussed based on both molecular orbital and band theories. The recent advances of perovskite oxide‐based electrocatalysts for ORR, CO2RR, and NRR are then highlighted. Strategies for developing perovskite oxide‐based ORR catalysts are emphasized with representative examples, intending to draw on the experience of developing ORR catalysts to both CO2RR and NRR catalysts. Finally, perspectives on the perovskite oxide‐based electrocatalysis are discussed by paying particular attention to the practical applications and future development of perovskite oxide‐based catalysts.
CsFAMAPbIBr Photoelectric Memristor Based on Ion‐Migration Induced Memristive Behavior
Authors: Wang Shaoxi , Dong Xiangqi , Xiong Yuxuan , Sha Jian , Cao Yunguo , Wu Yupan , Li Wei , Yin Yue , Wang Yucheng
Published: April 2021

New multifunctional artificial synaptic devices, which are capable of sensing various external information in addition to electrical stimuli and processing multiple signals in parallel in the same way biological synapses do, are in urgent need. Recently, several optical memristors are proposed to simulate photosynaptic plasticity for neuromorphic computing. Here, a light‐responsive memristor is described based on Cs0.05(FAxMA1−x)0.95PbIyBr3−y (CsFAMAPbIBr), a kind of organometal trihalide perovskite (OTP) with outstanding photovoltaic properties and stability. Such a memristor with Al/CsFAMAPbIBr/SnO2 doped with fluorine(SnO2:F) structure exhibits notable resistive switching (RS) behavior, which is the basic characteristic for further implementing complex synaptic plasticity. Analysis suggests that the RS characteristic origins from intrinsic ion migration within the OTP layer, which modulates the Schottky barrier at the CsFAMAPbIBr/electrode interface. Moreover, the memristive characteristics of the devices can also be modified by reshaping the stacking devices’ architecture or by applying light stimuli. This work elaborates the correlation between RS behavior and the ion migration of OTP and provides insights on the light‐responsive memristive mechanism of the memristor based on CsFAMAPbIBr.
Bamboo‐based agroforestry system effects on soil fertility: Ginger performance in the bamboo subcanopy in the Himalayas (India)
Authors: Garima  , Bhardwaj D. R. , Thakur C. L. , Kaushal Rajesh , Sharma Prashant , Kumar Dhirender , Kumari Yourmila
Published: April 2021

An on‐farm bamboo intercropping study was conducted near Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India. It uses a split‐plot design with two bamboo species (Dendrocalamus asper and Dendrocalamus hamiltonii) and an open field condition as main plots, under which ginger (Zingiber officinale) was grown at five nutrient levels supplied through chemical fertilizers and organic sources (subplots). In the intercropping with bamboo species, ginger yield increased by 10.5–15.6% in comparison to the open field condition. Application of farmyard manure (FYM) based on N equivalent ratio showed the best (P ≤ .05) yield response of ginger (rhizome length, 7.65 cm; yield, 4,028 kg ha−1). Photoactive radiation was reduced by 60% under the bamboo canopy. Simultaneously, higher soil moisture (%) content was noticed for D. asper. Various soil physico‐chemical properties (top 0–15 cm) were significantly higher in the FYM treatment under D. asper than under D. hamiltonii or sole ginger cropping. Maximum returns (3,595.67 US$ ha−1 yr−1) were realized when the ginger crop was raised under the canopy of D. asper and supplied with FYM on N equivalent ratio + plant growth–promoting rhizobacteria. Overall, the results establish that ginger production in the northwest Himalayan region of India is a viable use of land resources for improved economic returns.
Multilevel screening of computation‐ready, experimental metal‐organic frameworks for natural gas purification
Authors: Li Zhi , Zhang Yue , Liu Bei , Chen Guangjin , Smit Berend
Published: April 2021

In this study, traditional Monte Carlo simulation and density functional theory‐based structural optimization methods were combined to screen computation‐ready experimental metal‐organic framework (MOF) database for the application of natural gas purification. Our results show that about half of the good performing computation‐ready experimental MOF structures displayed various degrees of deformation (even collapse) after the structure optimization. This phenomenon attributed to the strong attraction of unsaturated metals which attract nearby organic components. For some materials with deformation, unsaturated metals form new bonds with the adjacent organic linkers creating distortions that would be unrealistic in the experimental materials. For the remaining relatively stable materials whose structural characteristics did not change too much, we further studied the adsorption performance of their optimized structures. Finally, 12 good‐performing MOF materials with high stability were found which could greatly improve the possibility for constructing robust MOFs that could hold open metal sites by experiments.
Identification of undiagnosed dementia cases using a web‐based pre‐screening tool: The MOPEAD project
Authors: Rodrigo Adrián , Trigueros Paloma , Jamilis Laura , Alegret Montserrat , Rodríguez Octavio , Tárraga Lluís , González‐Pérez Antonio , Kramberger Milica , Winblad Bengt , Visser Pieter Jelle , Jessen Frank , Campo Laura , Boada Mercè ,   the MOPEAD consortium
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Innovative patient engagement models are required to identify people with prodromal and mild Alzheimer's disease who are “hidden” in their communities and not normally found in a memory clinic setting.

Methods

A marketing campaign and a web‐based pre‐screening tool were used to identify individuals at risk of dementia in five European countries. Harmonized clinical evaluation of these patients was performed in participating memory clinics within the MOPEAD project.

Results

A total of 1487 individuals completed the pre‐screening, with 547 of them found to be at risk of dementia (36.8%). Among the subset of 91 patients with a positive pre‐screening result that underwent full clinical evaluation, 49 (53.8%) were diagnosed with either mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease.

Conclusion

This novel web‐based pre‐screening tool showed to be a valid strategy to identify undiagnosed people with cognitive impairment.
Speech Biomarkers in Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder and Parkinson Disease
Authors: Rusz Jan , Hlavnička Jan , Novotný Michal , Tykalová Tereza , Pelletier Amelie , Montplaisir Jacques , Gagnon Jean‐Francois , Dušek Petr , Galbiati Andrea , Marelli Sara , Timm Paul C. , Teigen Luke N. , Janzen Annette , Habibi Mahboubeh , Stefani Ambra , Holzknecht Evi , Seppi Klaus , Evangelista Elisa , Rassu Anna Laura , Dauvilliers Yves , Högl Birgit , Oertel Wolfgang , St. Louis Erik K. , Ferini‐Strambi Luigi , Růžička Evžen , Postuma Ronald B. , Šonka Karel
Published: April 2021

Objective

This multilanguage study used simple speech recording and high‐end pattern analysis to provide sensitive and reliable noninvasive biomarkers of prodromal versus manifest α‐synucleinopathy in patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) and early‐stage Parkinson disease (PD).

Methods

We performed a multicenter study across the Czech, English, German, French, and Italian languages at 7 centers in Europe and North America. A total of 448 participants (337 males), including 150 with iRBD (mean duration of iRBD across language groups 0.5–3.4 years), 149 with PD (mean duration of disease across language groups 1.7–2.5 years), and 149 healthy controls were recorded; 350 of the participants completed the 12‐month follow‐up. We developed a fully automated acoustic quantitative assessment approach for the 7 distinctive patterns of hypokinetic dysarthria.

Results

No differences in language that impacted clinical parkinsonian phenotypes were found. Compared with the controls, we found significant abnormalities of an overall acoustic speech severity measure via composite dysarthria index for both iRBD (p = 0.002) and PD (p < 0.001). However, only PD (p < 0.001) was perceptually distinct in a blinded subjective analysis. We found significant group differences between PD and controls for monopitch (p < 0.001), prolonged pauses (p < 0.001), and imprecise consonants (p = 0.03); only monopitch was able to differentiate iRBD patients from controls (p = 0.004). At the 12‐month follow‐up, a slight progression of overall acoustic speech impairment was noted for the iRBD (p = 0.04) and PD (p = 0.03) groups.

Interpretation

Automated speech analysis might provide a useful additional biomarker of parkinsonism for the assessment of disease progression and therapeutic interventions. ANN NEUROL 2021;90:62–75
An evaluation of the curing characteristics of thermosetting epoxy carbon fiber sheet molding compounds and validation through computer simulations and molding trials
Authors: Zulueta Kepa , Arrillaga Alex , Stelzer Philipp S. , Martinez Iñaki
Published: April 2021

Sheet molding compounds (SMC) are ready‐to‐mold thermoset composite materials reinforced with discontinuous fibers, usually compression molded. Finite element (FE) based compression molding tools can be employed to optimize this process; FE tools require to define material models using raw material data measured through different characterization techniques. In this study, the cure kinetics of an epoxy‐based carbon fiber SMC has been characterized by means of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and moving die rheometer (MDR) techniques. Based on these datasets, Claxton‐Liska and Kamal‐Souror models have been set and the compression molding of a validation plate was performed, both experimentally and virtually. The results indicate that, even if both characterization techniques are valid for SMC curing characterization, MDR technique enables the characterization of the material at real molding temperatures and the model based on MDR leads to more accurate results.
Effect of ball milling on the mechanical properties and crystallization of graphene nanoplatelets reinforced short chain branched‐polyethylene
Authors: Kourtidou Dimitra , Grigora Maria Eirini , Tsongas Konstantinos , Terzopoulou Zoe , Tzetzis Dimitrios , Bikiaris Dimitrios N. , Chrissafis Konstantinos
Published: April 2021

Short‐chain‐branched‐polyethylene (SCB‐PE) is extensively used in domestic hot and cold piping systems. SCB‐PE nanocomposites using graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) as a filler, were prepared in this work. The effect of ball‐milling as a premixing technique prior to melt‐mixing, on the crystallization and the nanomechanical properties of the composites has been studied. Two sets of SCB‐PE/GNPs nanocomposites with various filler loadings were prepared; one with and one without the ball‐milling step. The dispersion of the filler was evaluated by optical microscopy while the crystallization process was studied using differential scanning calorimetry. The nonisothermal crystallization's experimental data were analyzed using various methods. The materials' nanomechanical behavior was investigated by conducting nanoindentation tests. A finite element analysis process was developed to extract the composites' stress–strain behavior. The composites prepared with ball‐milling presented improved dispersion of GNPs in the SCB‐PE matrix, which affected the crystallization, while nanoindentation tests showed significantly enhanced mechanical properties.
Estrogen receptors and their roles in the immune and respiratory systems
Authors: Millas Ieda , Duarte Barros Mirna
Published: April 2021

Estrogen is an important hormone for health in both genders. It is indispensable to glucose homeostasis, immune robustness, bone health, cardiovascular health, and neural functions. The main way that estrogen acts in the cells is through estrogen receptors (ERs). The presence of specific estrogen receptors is required for estrogen to have its characteristic ubiquitous action in almost all tissues. Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) are the major isoforms of estrogen that are highly specific in humans and enable selective hormonal actions in different tissues. This article reviews some of the observed estrogen actions and effects in different tissues and cells through these specific receptors. This ubiquitous, almost ordinary hormone may reveal itself as a significant factor that helped us to better understand the complexity of the human immune system response against respiratory infections, including the COVID‐19, and especially in the current state of this painful pandemic.
Venlafaxine prescription claims among insured women of reproductive age and pregnant women, 2011–2016
Authors: Summers April D. , Anderson Kayla N. , Ailes Elizabeth C. , Grosse Scott D. , Bobo William V. , Tepper Naomi K. , Reefhuis Jennita
Published: April 2021

Background

Some studies have reported associations between prenatal use of venlafaxine, a serotonin‐norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor used for depressive and anxiety disorders, and some birth defects. We described the prevalence of venlafaxine prescription claims among privately insured women of reproductive age and pregnant women.

Methods

Venlafaxine prescription claims were examined using the IBM MarketScan Commercial Databases. We included women of reproductive age (15–44 years) who had ≤45 days of lapsed enrollment during the calendar year of interest (2011–2016) in a non‐capitated healthcare plan sponsored by a large, self‐insured employer with prescription drug coverage and no mental health service carve‐out. Annual cohorts of pregnant women were identified among eligible women of reproductive age via pregnancy diagnosis and procedure codes. Venlafaxine prescriptions were identified via National Drug Codes in outpatient pharmacy claims and we estimated the annual proportion of women with venlafaxine claims by pregnancy trimester (pregnant women only), age, and Census division.

Results

Each year during 2011–2016, approximately 1.2% of eligible reproductive‐aged and 0.3% of eligible pregnant women filled a venlafaxine prescription. Among pregnant women, the proportion with venlafaxine claims was highest during the first trimester and decreased during the second and third trimesters. Small temporal increases in venlafaxine claims were observed for reproductive‐aged and pregnant women, with the largest among women aged 15–19 years.

Conclusions

Venlafaxine prescription claims were low among women of reproductive age and pregnant women during 2011–2016, with some increasing use over time among women aged 15–19 years.
Heart valve sizing and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Okuno Taishi , Heg Dik , Lanz Jonas , Praz Fabien , Gräni Christoph , Langhammer Bettina , Reineke David , Räber Lorenz , Wenaweser Peter , Pilgrim Thomas , Windecker Stephan , Stortecky Stefan
Published: April 2021

Objectives

To investigate the impact of transcatheter heart valve (THV) sizing on procedural results and clinical outcomes following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Background

The impact of individual THV sizing for patients with borderline aortic annulus anatomy remains unclear.

Methods

In the prospective BernTAVI registry, THV sizing conditions were retrospectively evaluated, and patients were categorized into three groups based on the recommendations and the sizing chart of the manufacturers: optimal sizing, borderline sizing (THV size located within 5% to each border of the optimal sizing recommendation), and suboptimal sizing (THV size outside the recommended range). The latter two groups were further subcategorized into THV‐oversizing and THV‐undersizing. The primary endpoint was a composite of all‐cause death and unplanned repeat intervention at 1 year.

Results

Out of a total of 1,638 patients who underwent TAVI, 9.5 and 15.6% of patients were categorized into the borderline and suboptimal sizing group, respectively. Device success was achieved in 87.4, 88.9, and 83.6% of patients with optimal, borderline, and suboptimal sizing, respectively. The primary endpoint occurred in 12.3% of patients with optimal sizing, 14.9% of patients with borderline sizing (HRadj 1.35, 95%CI 0.87–2.09), and in 17.4% of patients with suboptimal sizing (HRadj 1.42, 95%CI 1.01–1.99). Within the suboptimal sizing cohort, unfavorable outcomes were mainly associated with THV undersizing (device success: 76.4%, primary endpoint: 23.9%, HRadj 1.98, 95%CI 1.36–2.87).

Conclusion

Suboptimal TAVI prosthesis sizing is associated with an increased risk of all‐cause death and unplanned repeat intervention within 1 year largely attributable to undersized THV prostheses.
Development and in vitro Profiling of Dual FXR/LTA4H Modulators
Authors: Schierle Simone , Brunst Steffen , Helmstädter Moritz , Ebert Roland , Kramer Jan S. , Steinhilber Dieter , Proschak Ewgenij , Merk Daniel
Published: April 2021

Designed polypharmacology presents as an attractive strategy to increase therapeutic efficacy in multi‐factorial diseases by a directed modulation of multiple involved targets with a single molecule. Such an approach appears particularly suitable in non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) which involves hepatic steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis as pathological hallmarks. Among various potential pharmacodynamic mechanisms, activation of the farnesoid X receptor (FXRa) and inhibition of leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4Hi) hold promise to counteract NASH according to preclinical and clinical observations. We have developed dual FXR/LTA4H modulators as pharmacological tools, enabling evaluation of this polypharmacology concept to treat NASH and related pathologies. The optimized FXRa/LTA4Hi exhibits well‐balanced dual activity on the intended targets with sub‐micromolar potency and is highly selective over related nuclear receptors and enzymes rendering it suitable as tool to probe synergies of dual FXR/LTA4H targeting.
6‐Methyl‐7‐Aryl‐7‐Deazapurine Nucleosides as Anti‐Trypanosoma cruzi Agents: Structure‐Activity Relationship and in vivo Efficacy
Authors: Lin Cai , Ferreira de Almeida Fiuza Ludmila , Cardoso Santos Camila , Ferreira Nunes Daniela , Cruz Moreira Otacílio , Bouton Jakob , Karalic Izet , Maes Louis , Caljon Guy , Hulpia Fabian , de Nazaré C. Soeiro Maria , Van Calenbergh Serge
Published: April 2021

Chagas disease is a tropical infectious disease resulting in progressive organ‐damage and currently lacks efficient treatment and vaccine options. The causative pathogen, Trypanosoma cruzi, requires uptake and processing of preformed purines from the host because it cannot synthesize these de novo, instigating the evaluation of modified purine nucleosides as potential trypanocides. By modifying the pyrimidine part of a previously identified 7‐aryl‐7‐deazapurine nucleoside, we found that substitution of a 6‐methyl for a 6‐amino group allows retaining T. cruzi amastigote growth inhibitory activity but confers improved selectivity towards mammalian cells. By keeping the 6‐methyl group unaltered, and introducing different 7‐aryl groups, we identified several analogues with sub‐micromolar antitrypanosomal activity. The 7‐(4‐chlorophenyl) analogue 14, which was stable in microsomes, was evaluated in an acute mouse model. Oral administration of 25 mg/kg b.i.d. suppressed peak parasitemia and protected mice from infection‐related mortality, gave similar reductions as the reference drug of blood parasite loads determined by qPCR, but as benznidazole failed to induce sterile cure in the short time period of drug exposure (5 days).
Relationship between metabolic toxicity and efficacy of everolimus in patients with neuroendocrine tumors: A pooled analysis from the randomized, phase 3 RADIANT‐3 and RADIANT‐4 trials
Authors: Fazio Nicola , Carnaghi Carlo , Buzzoni Roberto , Valle Juan W. , Herbst Fabian , Ridolfi Antonia , Strosberg Jonathan , Kulke Matthew H. , Pavel Marianne E. , Yao James C.
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Hyperglycemia and hypercholesterolemia are class effects of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors such as everolimus. This post hoc pooled analysis assessed the potential impact of these events on the efficacy of everolimus.

METHODS

Patients with advanced, low‐ or intermediate‐grade pancreatic, gastrointestinal, or lung neuroendocrine tumors received either oral everolimus at 10 mg/d or a placebo in the RAD001 in Advanced Neuroendocrine Tumors 3 (RADIANT‐3) and RAD001 in Advanced Neuroendocrine Tumors 4 (RADIANT‐4) trials. A landmark progression‐free survival (PFS) analysis by central review was performed for patients treated for at least 16 weeks (n = 308) and according to the occurrence of any‐grade adverse events (AEs) within this treatment period.

RESULTS

The overall PFS with everolimus from the pooled analysis was 11.4 months (95% confidence interval, 11.01‐13.93 months), which was consistent with the findings of RADIANT‐3 and RADIANT‐4. Overall, 19.1% and 9.8% of patients in RADIANT‐3 and 11.9% and 6.4% of patients in RADIANT‐4 developed any‐grade hyperglycemia and hypercholesterolemia, respectively (regardless of the study drug). The duration of everolimus exposure was longer in patients who developed these AEs versus patients without these AEs. Overall, 308 patients were exposed to treatment for at least 16 weeks (hyperglycemia, 39 of 269 patients; hypercholesterolemia, 20 of 288 patients). No association was observed between the development of these AEs and PFS (18.8 and 14.1 months with and without hyperglycemia, respectively, and 14.1 and 14.8 months with and without hypercholesterolemia, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Although limitations apply because of the small number of AEs observed, there was no significant impact of these AEs on PFS; this suggests similar efficacy in the presence or absence of these events.
Quantitative analysis of endotoxin‐induced inflammation in human lung cells by Chipcytometry
Authors: Carstensen Saskia , Holz Olaf , Hohlfeld Jens M. , Müller Meike
Published: April 2021

Chipcytometry is a tool that uses iterative staining cycles with multiple antibodies for a detailed characterization of cells. Cell recognition is based on morphological features. Cells fixed on microfluidic chips can be stored and shipped enabling a centralized analysis, which is important for assessments in multi‐center clinical trials. The method was initially implemented for the analysis of cells from peripheral blood. We adapted it to more heterogeneous human lung cells from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and induced sputum (IS). We aimed to assess the performance of Chipcytometry to detect and quantify the endotoxin induced inflammatory response in healthy subjects. BAL and IS samples of 10 healthy subjects were collected prior to and following segmental and inhaled endotoxin challenge. Samples were analyzed by Chipcytometry and were compared with flow cytometry, and differential cell count (DCC). Chipcytometry clearly detected the endotoxin induced inflammatory response which was characterized by a massive increase of neutrophils (BAL: 2.5% to 54.7%; IS: 40.5% to 71.1%) and monocytes (BAL: 7.7% to 24.7%; IS: 8.0% to 14.5%). While some differences between detection methods exist, the overall results were comparable. The ability of Chipcytometry to verify fluorescent signals with morphological features improved the precision of rare cell analysis such as of induced sputum lymphocytes. In conclusion, Chipcytometry enables the quantitative analysis of cells from BAL fluid and IS. Advantages over DCC and flow cytometry include the storage of cells on chips, the ability for re‐analysis and the mapping of surface marker binding to morphological information. It therefore appears to be a promising method for use in clinical respiratory drug development.
Precision agriculture with cluster‐based optimal routing in wireless sensor network
Authors: Agarkhed Jayashree , Dattatraya Patil Yogita , Patil Siddarama
Published: April 2021

Agriculture played a vital role in the growth of the Indian economy. New technologies can overcome the various issues in agriculture. One such ever‐growing area is Precision Agriculture (PA) with advancements in Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) technology. It finds applications in various segments of agriculture. The data packet of each application expects different services from the underlying network. Most of the techniques have not found much on service differentiation and arrival rate. Due to the dynamicity of the network, the traffic rate may get vary and load the selected paths which degrade performance expected from the network. These issues addressed by the proposed protocol employing Decision Support System (DSS) for intelligent path selection based on traffic rate. The proposed protocol outperforms in terms of minimized delay, energy consumption, achieving high throughput, and packet delivery ratio.
Fathers’ oxytocin responses to first holding their newborns: Interactions with testosterone reactivity to predict later parenting behavior and father‐infant bonds
Authors: Gettler Lee T. , Kuo Patty X. , Sarma Mallika S. , Trumble Benjamin C. , Burke Lefever Jennifer E. , Braungart‐Rieker Julia M.
Published: April 2021

Little is known about human fathers’ physiology near infants’ births. This may represent a period during which paternal psychobiological axes are sensitive to fathers’ new experiences of interacting with their newborns and that can provide insights on how individual differences in fathers’ biology relate to post‐partum parenting. Drawing on a sample of men in South Bend, IN (U.S.), we report results from a longitudinal study of fathers’ oxytocin, cortisol, and testosterone (N = 211) responses to their first holding of their infants on the day of birth and men's reported caregiving and father‐infant bonding at 2–4 months post‐partum (N = 114). First‐time fathers’ oxytocin was higher following first holding of their newborns, compared to their pre‐holding levels. Contrasting with prior results, fathers’ percentage change in oxytocin did not differ based on skin‐to‐skin or standard holding. Drawing on psychobiological frameworks, we modeled the interactions for oxytocin reactivity with testosterone and cortisol reactivity, respectively, in predicting father‐infant outcomes months later. We found significant cross‐over interactions for (oxytocin × testosterone) in predicting fathers’ later post‐partum involvement and bonding. Specifically, we found that fathers whose testosterone declined during holding reported greater post‐partum play if their oxytocin increased, compared to fathers who experienced increases in both hormones. We also observed a similar non‐significant interaction for (oxytocin × cortisol) in predicting fathers’ post‐partum play. Fathers whose testosterone declined during holding also reported less involvement in direct caregiving and lower father‐infant bonding if their oxytocin decreased but greater direct care and bonding if their testosterone increased and oxytocin decreased. The results inform our understanding of the developmental time course of men's physiological responsiveness to father‐infant interaction and its relevance to later fathering behavior and family relationships.
Towards faster big data analytics for anti‐jamming applications in vehicular ad‐hoc network
Authors: Bangui Hind , Ge Mouzhi , Buhnova Barbora , Hong Trang Le
Published: April 2021

Nowadays, Wireless Vehicular Ad‐Hoc Network (VANET) has become a valuable asset for transportation systems. However, this advanced technology is characterized by highly distributed and networked environment, which makes VANET communications vulnerable to malicious jamming attacks. Although Big Data Analytics has been used to solve this critical security issue by supporting the development of anti‐jamming applications, as the amount of vehicular data is growing exponentially, the anti‐jamming applications face many challenges (i., reactions in real‐time) due to the lack of specific solutions that can keep up with the fast advancement of VANET. In this paper, we propose a new vehicular data prioritization model based on coresets to accelerate the Big Data Analytics in VANET. Our experimental evaluation shows that our solution can significantly increase the efficiency for clustering in jamming detection while keeping and improving the clustering quality. Also, the proposed solution can enable the real‐time detection and be integrated to anti‐jamming applications.
Effect of the corrugated bipolar plate design on the self‐humidification of a high power density PEMFC stack for UAVs
Authors: Nefedkin Sergey I. , Klimova Mariya A. , Glasov Vasiliy S. , Pavlov Vladislav I. , Tolmachev Yuriy V.
Published: April 2021

Open‐cathode PEMFCs for unmanned aerial vehicles operate at a near‐ambient temperature, which requires high super‐stoichiometric air flow rates to remove heat. This, in turn, makes the stack vulnerable to drying out. Using a combination of experimental measurements with a 1.2 kW stack and 3D multiphysics modelling, we show that the design of the corrugated metal bipolar plate with a height above the commonly used 1.05 mm and with cathode cooling channels wider than air‐suppling channels allows for a more efficient heat removal at lower air flow rates, thus assuring a wider range of operating parameters, while maintaining adequate hydration. The self‐humidifying stack attains 1000 W kg−1 power, and the full system with a nominal runtime of 4 h attains specific energy of 700 Wh kg−1.
Association of social deprivation with cognitive status and decline in older adults
Authors: Hofbauer Lena M. , Rodriguez Francisca S.
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Social deprivation, i.e. the relative deprivation in socioeconomic domains, is known to exacerbate disease risk. Less is known about its role in cognitive functioning and decline in older adults. This study aimed to investigate the association between social deprivation and cognitive status as well as rate of decline.

Methods

We analysed data from the nationally representative Health and Retirement study (HRS) of individuals aged 50 and older. The analysis sample contained 11,101 respondents (mean age at baseline: 69.4, SD: 8.6%, 55% female) with at least two cognitive assessments (mean follow up: 11.2, SD: 5.4). To quantify social deprivation we constructed a social deprivation index (SDI) with structural equation modelling. Multiple growth curve modelling was used to model cognitive status and decline as predicted by SDI.

Results

After adjusting for covariates, greater social deprivation was associated with poorer cognitive status (β = −0.910, p < 0.001; 95% CI: −0.998–0.823) and faster cognitive decline (β = −0.005, p = 0.002; 95% CI:−0.009–0.002). Of the covariates, depressive symptoms, chronic disease burden, belonging to a racial or ethnical minority, and male gender were also associated with poorer cognitive status. Marriage statuses other than being married or partnered had a positive association with cognitive status.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that greater social deprivation was associated with significantly poorer cognitive status implying that preventing social deprivation can contribute to raising cognitive functioning in the older population and help reduce the incidence of dementia. Policy that facilitates early intervention in social deprivation will be key.
Assessment of groundwater quality for irrigation and drinking using different quality indices and geostatistical methods in Çorum province (Turkey)*
Authors: Şahin Kiy Makbule , Arslan Hakan
Published: April 2021

Groundwater is widely used for irrigation and drinking purposes. Therefore, assessing groundwater quality is very important for sustainable agricultural irrigation and human welfare. In this study, different water quality indices including electrical conductivity (EC), sodium adsorption ratio, permeability index, sodium percentage, Langelier saturation index, residual sodium carbonate, magnesium ratio (MR), Kelly index (KI), potential salinity (PS), and irrigation water quality index (IWQI) were evaluated to determine the suitability for irrigation. The drinking water quality index (DWQI) was used to assess the suitability for drinking purposes. Spatial distribution maps were created by the ordinary kriging method, using the best semivariogram model parameters for each quality index. The Gaussian model gave the best results for all parameters except for MR and PS. Results from the study area showed that 86.1% of EC, 15.4% of KI, and 52.1% of MR were unsuitable for irrigation purposes, and none of the wells were fit for drip irrigation. The IWQI value was above 70 in 51.2% of this area, which is suitable for irrigation of all plants, whereas it was determined that about 13% of all areas are unsuitable for drinking purposes with regard to DWQI.
SURVEY AND REGISTRATION OF AFRICAN LAND UNITS IN SOUTHERN RHODESIA
Authors: Bradford J. E. S.
Published: April 2021

Prepared for the Commonwealth Survey Officers' Conference—1955
Varying reactions to feedback and their effects on observer accuracy and feedback omission
Authors: Matey Nicholas , Sleiman Andressa , Nastasi Jessica , Richard Erin , Gravina Nicole
Published: April 2021

The effectiveness of performance feedback depends on many factors, including accuracy and repeated delivery over time. Previous research has suggested that requiring the delivery of performance feedback may result in less accurate observations and feedback during subsequent observations. The current study evaluated whether different reactions (i.e., positive, neutral, or negative) to feedback would affect the accuracy of subsequent observations or the delivery of feedback. Forty‐five participants were assigned to 1 of 3 reactions groups and they were instructed to observe and record the safety performance of a confederate during a baseline condition. Following 2 baseline sessions, participants were instructed to deliver feedback and the confederate reacted to the feedback according to the assigned condition for 4 sessions. Results provide evidence that positive reactions maintain observation accuracy and the provision of feedback, while both neutral and negative reactions decrease observation accuracy and result in frequent omission of feedback.
Stabilization of group 14 elements E = C, Si, Ge byhetero‐bilepticligandscAAC,MCOnwithpush‐pullmechanism
Authors: Gorantla Sai Manoj N. V. T. , Parameswaran Pattiyil , Mondal Kartik Chandra
Published: April 2021

The stability and bonding of a series of hetero‐diatomic molecules with general formula (cAAC)EM(CO)n, where cAAC = cyclic alkyl(amino) carbene; E = group 14 elements (C, Si, and Ge); M = transition metal (Ni, Fe, and Cr) have been studied by quantum chemical calculations using density functional theory (DFT) and energy decomposition analysis‐natural orbital chemical valence (EDA‐NOCV). The equilibrium geometries were calculated at the BP86/def2‐TZVPP level of theory. The tri‐coordinated group 14 complex (1a,4a, and7a) in which one of the CO groups is migrated to the central group 14 element from adjacent metal is theoretically found to be more stable when the central atom (E) is carbon. On the other hand, the two‐coordinate group 14 element containing metal‐complexes (2,5,8,3,6, and9) are found to be more stable with their corresponding heavier analogues. The electronic structures of all the molecules have been analyzed by molecular orbital, topological analysis of electron density and natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis at the M06/def2‐TZVPP//BP86/def2‐TZVPP level of theory. The nature of the cAACE and EM bonds has been studied by EDA‐NOCV calculations at BP86‐D3(BJ)/TZ2P level of theory. The EDA analysis suggests that the bonding of cAACC(CO) can be best represented by electron sharing σ and π interactions, whereas, C(CO)M(CO)n−1by dative σ and π interactions. On the other hand, EDA‐NOCV calculations suggests both dative σ and π interactions for cAACE and EM(CO)nbonds of the corresponding Si and Ge analogues having stronger σ‐ and relatively weaker π‐bonds. The topological analysis of electron density supports the closed‐shell interaction for the Si and Ge complexes and open‐shell interaction for the carbon complexes. The calculated proton affinity and hydride affinity values corroborated well with the present bonding description. This class of complexes might act as efficient future catalysts for different organic transformations due to the presence of electron rich group 14 element and metal carbonyl.
Modified Diffusion Tensor Image Processing Pipeline for Archived Studies of Patients With Leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Song Ruitian , Glass John O. , Reddick Wilburn E.
Published: April 2021

Background

In archived diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) studies, a reversed‐phase encoding (PE) scan required to correct the distortion in single‐shot echo‐planar imaging (EPI) may not have been acquired. Furthermore, DTI tractography is adversely affected by incorrect white matter segmentation due to leukoencephalopathy (LE). All these issues need to be addressed.

Purpose

To propose and evaluate a modified DTI processing pipeline with DIstortion COrrection using pseudo T2‐weighted images (DICOT) to overcome limitations in existing acquisition protocols.

Study Type

Retrospective feasibility.

Subjects

DICOT was assessed in simulated data and 84 acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients with reversed PE acquired. The pipeline was then tested in 522 scans from 261 ALL patients without a reversed PE acquired.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3 T; diffusion‐weighted EPI; 3D magnetization prepared rapid acquisition gradient echo (MPRAGE).

Statistical Tests

Repeated measures analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc tests were performed to compare fractional anisotropy (FA) values obtained by different methods.

Assessment

FA and corresponding absolute error maps were obtained using TOPUP, DICOT, INVERSION (Inverse contrast Normalization for VERy Simple registratION) and NO CORR (no correction). Each method was assessed by comparing to TOPUP. The pipeline in the ALL patients was evaluated based on the failure rate of the distortion correction using the global correlation values.

Results

Using DICOT reduced the mean absolute errors by an average of 32% in FA in simulation datasets. In 84 patients, the error reductions were approximately 15% in FA with DICOT, while it was 5% with INVERSION. No significant differences between the TOPUP and DICOT were observed in FA with P = 0.090/0.894(AP/PA). Only 15 of 516 examinations requiring any additional manual intervention.

Conclusion

This modified pipeline produced better results than the INVERSION. Furthermore, robust performance was demonstrated in archived patient scans acquired without an inverse PE necessary for TOPUP correction.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Predicting Raman line shapes from amorphous silicon clusters for estimating short‐range order
Authors: Rani Chanchal , Tanwar Manushree , Kandpal Suchita , Ghosh Tanushree , Pathak Devesh K. , Chaudhary Anjali , Kumar Rajesh
Published: April 2021

A theoretical model obtained based on direct matrix method and bond polarization model (DMM‐BPM) has been used to predict Raman scattering line shape for amorphous silicon (a‐Si). These line shapes can describe the observed nonunique peak position from these a‐Si crystallites, unlike crystalline Si, that varies between 470 and 485 cm−1. The model has been validated using three different sets of Raman scattering data by fitting it with the proposed model. The Raman spectra are obtained from a‐Si samples prepared by three different methods by three different research groups reported earlier. Clear consonance with the experimentally observed and theoretical Raman line shape was obtained. The model has also been used to estimate the distance up to which the crystallinity remains intact in a‐Si. The used model has been compared with the existing phonon confinement model, and a discrepancy (in the latter) therein has been discussed. Rationale behind adopting this model has been explained using the constraints related to the Raman selection rule, their relaxation, or breakdown in appropriate materials' regimes. A handy empirical relation between Raman peak position and amorphous cluster size has been proposed.
New pectic polysaccharides from Codonopsis pilosula and Codonopsis tangshen: structural characterization and cellular antioxidant activities
Authors: Zou Yuan‐Feng , Zhang Yan‐Yun , Paulsen Berit S , Rise Frode , Chen Zheng‐Li , Jia Ren‐Yong , Li Li‐Xia , Song Xu , Feng Bin , Tang Hua‐Qiao , Huang Chao , Ye Gang , Yin Zhong‐Qiong
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Codonopsis pilosula and Codonopsis tangshen are plants widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. Two pectic polysaccharides from the roots of C. pilosula and C. tangshen named as CPP‐1 and CTP‐1 were obtained by boiling water extraction and column chromatography.

RESULTS

The core structures of both CPP‐1 and CTP‐1 comprise the long homogalacturonan region (HG) as the backbone and the rhamnogalacturonan I (RG‐I) region as the side chains. CPP‐1 has methyl esterified galacturonic acid units and a slightly lower molecular weight than CTP‐1. Biological testing suggested that CPP‐1 and CTP‐1 can protect IPEC‐J2 cells against the H2O2‐induced oxidative stress by up‐regulating nuclear factor‐erythroid 2‐related factor 2 and related genes in IPEC‐J2 cells. The different antioxidative activities of polysaccharides from different source of C. pilosula may be result of differences in their structures.

CONCLUSION

All of the results indicated that pectic polysaccharides CPP‐1 and CTP‐1 from different species of C. pilosula roots could be used as a potential natural antioxidant source. These findings will be valuable for further studies and new applications of pectin‐containing health products. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Multi‐criteria decision‐making approach for modular enterprise resource planning sorting problems
Authors: Carpitella Silvia , Certa Antonella , Izquierdo Joaquín , La Cascia Marco
Published: April 2021

Implementing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems is currently recognized as a best practice with wide associated possibilities of business improvement for companies. Integrating these kinds of systems with business processes in the most efficient way requires to endeavour as much as possible simplifications for final users, which can be pursued by optimizing crucial software characteristics. The present article proposes a novel Multi‐Criteria Decision‐Making (MCDM) approach to deal with such an issue. Specifically, the ELECTRE (ELimination Et Choix Traduisant la REalité) TRI technique is suggested to assign ERP modules into predefined and ordered categories according to maintainability and usability, which are useful drivers in evaluating which module of an ERP software should be enhanced with priority. The results prove to have whole beneficial impact on system performance with relation to a case study: improvement evaluations will be identified based on the classes the ERP modules are assigned to by the method.
Policyholder cluster divergence based differential premium in diabetes insurance
Authors: Ma Benjiang , Tang Qing , Qin Yifang , Bashir Muhammad Farhan
Published: April 2021

Traditional health insurance pricing, which is based on experience rates, cannot correctly estimate the risk types of policyholders, can lead to serious adverse selection. Due to massive data volumes and developments in data analysis technology, the underwriting process can more accurately reflect the insured's risk type. Therefore, this paper based on policyholder cluster divergence proposes a differential premium approach by employing fuzzy c‐means algorithm (FCM) with an extended initial multistate Markov model to formulate the differential premium that matches the policyholder's risk category. Our results confirm that the proposed differential premium approach better reveals the policyholder's risk type as compared with unified pricing and effectively counteracts adverse selection.