bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partitioning evapotranspiration of winter wheat based on oxygen isotope approach under different irrigation regimes
Authors: Kale Celik Sema , Madenoglu Sevinc , Turker Ufuk
Published: March 2022

Evapotranspiration (ET), which is an elusive component of the hydrological cycle, comprises transpiration from plants (T) and evaporation from soil surface (E). In this regard, it is essential to know how much water is lost by T and E during the irrigation period. The overall aim of this study is to separate the ET components by stable oxygen isotopes of winter wheat at the field scale under different irrigation regimes. For this purpose, the field experiment was conducted under rain‐fed, deficit and full irrigation conditions. Soil–water–plant samples were taken for isotopic (18O/16O) analyses. According to the research results, a significant positive relationship was found between applied irrigation water and the average T/ET ratio with a correlation coefficient of 0.81. The T/ET ratios were, on average, 70, 75 and 84% for rain‐fed, deficit and full irrigation treatments, respectively. During the growing season, 231 and 78 mm of irrigation water were applied for full and deficit irrigation, respectively. This showed that water savings of 66% were achieved, although there was a slight (12%) change in transpiration in deficit irrigation. Also, in the use of the oxygen isotope content results indicated that T was the dominant source of total evapotranspiration.
Software for non‐parametric image registration of 2‐photon imaging data
Authors: Flotho Philipp , Nomura Shinobu , Kuhn Bernd , Strauss Daniel J.
Published: March 2022

Functional 2‐photon microscopy is a key technology for imaging neuronal activity. The recorded image sequences, however, can contain non‐rigid movement artifacts which requires high‐accuracy movement correction. Variational optical flow (OF) estimation is a group of methods for motion analysis with established performance in many computer vision areas. However, it has yet to be adapted to the statistics of 2‐photon neuroimaging data. In this work, we present the motion compensation method Flow‐Registration that outperforms previous alignment tools and allows to align and reconstruct even low signal‐to‐noise ratio 2‐photon imaging data and is able to compensate high‐divergence displacements during local drug injections. The method is based on statistics of such data and integrates previous advances in variational OF estimation. Our method is available as an easy‐to‐use ImageJ/FIJI plugin as well as a MATLAB toolbox with modular, object oriented file IO, native multi‐channel support and compatibility with existing 2‐photon imaging suites.
Covering hypergraphs are Eulerian
Authors: Šajna Mateja , Wagner Andrew
Published: March 2022

An Euler tour in a hypergraph (also called a rank‐2 universal cycle or 1‐overlap cycle in the context of designs) is a closed walk that traverses every edge exactly once. In this paper, we define a covering ‐hypergraph to be a nonempty ‐uniform hypergraph in which every ‐subset of vertices appear together in at least one edge. We then show that every covering ‐hypergraph, for , admits an Euler tour if and only if it has at least two edges.
Automated radiosynthesis of the adenosine A2A receptor‐targeting radiotracer [18F]FLUDA
Authors: Lai Thu Hang , Wenzel Barbara , Moldovan Rareş‐Petru , Brust Peter , Kopka Klaus , Teodoro Rodrigo
Published: March 2022

[18F]FLUDA is a selective radiotracer for in vivo imaging of the adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) by positron emission tomography (PET). Promising preclinical results obtained by neuroimaging of mice and piglets suggest the translation of [18F]FLUDA to human PET studies. Thus, we report herein a remotely controlled automated radiosynthesis of [18F]FLUDA using a GE TRACERlab FX2 N radiosynthesizer. The radiotracer was obtained by a one‐pot two‐step radiofluorination procedure with a radiochemical yield of 9±1%, a radiochemical purity of ≥99%, and molar activities in the range of 69–333 GBq/μmol at the end of synthesis within a total synthesis time of approx. 95 min (n = 16). Altogether, we successfully established a reliable and reproducible procedure for the automated production of [18F]FLUDA.
Distinct diagnostic trajectories in NBAS‐associated acute liver failure highlights the need for timely functional studies
Authors: Akesson Lauren S. , Rius Rocio , Brown Natasha J. , Rosenbaum Jeremy , Donoghue Sarah , Stormon Michael , Chai Charmaine , Bordador Esmeralda , Guo Yiran , Hakonarson Hakon , Compton Alison G. , Thorburn David R. , Amarasekera Sumudu , Marum Justine , Monaco Alisha , Lee Crystle , Chong Belinda , Lunke Sebastian , Stark Zornitza , Christodoulou John
Published: March 2022

Variants of uncertain significance (VUS) are commonly found following genomic sequencing, particularly in ethnically diverse populations that are underrepresented in large population databases. Functional characterization of VUS may assist in variant reclassification, however these studies are not readily available and often rely on research funding and good will. We present four individuals from three families at different stages of their diagnostic trajectory with recurrent acute liver failure (RALF) and biallelic NBAS variants, confirmed by either trio analysis or cDNA studies. Functional characterization was undertaken, measuring NBAS and p31 levels by Western blotting, demonstrating reduced NBAS levels in two of three families, and reduced p31 levels in all three families. These results provided functional characterization of the molecular impact of a missense VUS, allowing reclassification of the variant and molecular confirmation of NBAS‐associated RALF. Importantly, p31 was decreased in all individuals, including an individual with two missense variants where NBAS protein levels were preserved. These results highlight the importance of access to timely functional studies after identification of putative variants, and the importance of considering a range of assays to validate variants whose pathogenicity is uncertain. We suggest that funding models for genomic sequencing should consider incorporating capabilities for adjunct RNA, protein, biochemical, and other specialized tests to increase the diagnostic yield which will lead to improved medical care, increased equity, and access to molecular diagnoses for all patients.
A precise self‐built secondary mass database for identifying red dyes and dyeing techniques with UPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Guo Yujie , Shi Lei , Zhou Xudong , Xia Wei , Zhang Lingfan , Xu Zhizhen , Luo Xiyun , Zhang Wenqing
Published: March 2022

Dyes on ancient silks have been a worth studying field through human's history, although current reports ignore the connection between natural dyes origin and relevant colour reduction methods, which poses an insurmountable obstacle for restoration of historical silks. In this paper, a series of 12 red hue silks from six natural dyes (sappanwood, Chinese madder, safflower, lac, cochineal, dragon's blood) via three different dyeing techniques were used to establish a self‐built precise tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) database. With organic solvent extracting on those manual‐dyed silks, ultraperformance liquid chromatography ‐ electrospray ionization ‐ quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS) was utilized to form preliminary MS database for screening and identifying of the potential dyes compounds without standard references. Furthermore, combining the targeted MS/MS mode and the matching threshold of 70.00, a self‐built secondary MS/MS database was successfully established, which contains 33 compounds, 32 chromatograms and 32 MS/MS fragments. As for real sample application, the self‐built precise MS/MS database had revealed that the dyes on two historical silks (Shanghai Museum, China) belong to Chinese madder just with different mordant dyeing ordinal. Additionally, by experimental restoration, visually indistinguishable silks (ΔEab* < 1.5 NBS) were successfully restored. This explorative methodology can further inspire the traceability of biological dyestuffs, which lays instructive foundation on protection and restoration of artefacts, connecting the archaeological science and human art.
When cyclin‐dependent kinases meet viral infections, including SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Yan Yan , Tang Yan‐dong , Zheng Chunfu
Published: March 2022

Cyclin‐dependent kinases (CDKs) are protein kinases that play a key role in cell division and transcriptional regulation. Recent studies have demonstrated the critical roles of CDKs in various viral infections. However, the molecular processes underpinning CDKs' roles in viral infection and host antiviral defense are unknown. This minireview briefly overviews CDKs' functions and highlights the most recent discoveries of CDKs' emerging roles during viral infections, thereby providing a scientific and theoretical foundation for antiviral regulation and shedding light on developing novel drug targets and therapeutic strategies against viral infection.
Two years after pulmonary vein isolation guided by ablation index—a multicenter study
Authors: Sousa Pedro A. , Puga Luís , Adão Luís , Primo João , Khoueiry Ziad , Lebreiro Ana , Fonseca Paulo , Lagrange Philippe , Elvas Luís , Gonçalves Lino
Published: March 2022

Background

The use of the Ablation Index (AI) software for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) has been associated with higher acute effectiveness and higher 1‐year arrhythmia freedom. There is, however, a lack of data concerning longer follow‐up. We aim to evaluate the 2‐year outcomes after a standardized AI‐guided pulmonary vein isolation (PVI).

Methods

Prospective, multicenter study of consecutive patients referred for paroxysmal AF ablation from January 2018 to July 2019. PVI was guided by a tailored AI value (≥500 for anterior segment, ≥450 for the roof segments and inferior segments, and 400 for the posterior wall) and an ILD ≤6 mm. The primary endpoints were acute and long‐term effectiveness.

Results

The study included 218 (842 PV) patients (61% males, median age of 60 [IQR 49–68] years) with paroxysmal AF. First‐pass isolation was obtained in 93% of the patients, with an acute reconnection occurring in 10.6% of the patients (3.2% of the PV) following adenosine trial. After a median follow‐up of 26 (IQR 20–30) months, freedom from any documented atrial arrhythmia was 83.4%, off‐AAD. The rate of adverse events was 1.4%. Although procedural parameters differ across centers (p < 0.001), the acute (p = 0.56) and long‐term effectiveness (p = 0.83) were consistent between centers.

Conclusions

Patients with paroxysmal AF submitted to an AI‐guided PVI workflow presented high arrhythmia freedom at 2‐years of follow‐up.
Evaluation of the accuracy of soft tissue thickness measurements with three different methodologies: An in vitro study
Authors: Ferry Katherine , AlQallaf Hawra , Blanchard Steven , Dutra Vinicius , Lin Wei‐Shao , Hamada Yusuke
Published: March 2022

Background

Soft tissue thickness (STT) influences esthetics, peri‐implant, and periodontal health. Non‐invasive methods of STT evaluation include cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) with Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) files and registration of DICOM files with an intraoral scan or Standard Tessellation Language (STL) files. This study compares three methodologies: bone sounding, DICOM data alone, and DICOM and STL registration to absolute histomorphologic values.

Methods

Five human maxillas, including teeth numbers 6 to 11, provided 90 sites for analysis. For standardization, reference grooves were placed at the cervical margin and the long axis of each tooth. Direct measurements with a no. 25 K‐file were completed at the facial soft tissues at 3.00, 5.00, and 7.00 mm from the apical marginal reference. Indirect measures were performed with implant planning software. Histological measurements were rendered with imaging software. One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the three techniques for the differences from histologic measurements (α = 0.05).

Results

Seventy‐two sites were included for final analysis. The overall mean histological STT (mSTT) was 0.73 ± 0.31 mm. Bone sounding overestimated mSTT, 0.22 ± 0.20 mm (P < 0.001); whereas, DICOM alone underestimated mSTT, −0.23 ± 0.19 mm (P < 0.001). DICOM and STL registration had non‐statistically significant differences, −0.04 ± 0.21 mm (P = 0.429). Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of DICOM and STL registration achieved the highest agreement with histology (ICC: 0.74).

Conclusions

DICOM and STL file registration had the highest agreement with histological STT supporting the use of DICOM and STL registration for the evaluation of STT.
Alveolar ridge preservation reduces the need for ancillary bone augmentation in the context of implant therapy
Authors: Couso‐Queiruga Emilio , Mansouri Cyrus J. , Alade Azeez A. , Allareddy Trishul V. , Galindo‐Moreno Pablo , Avila‐Ortiz Gustavo
Published: March 2022

Background

There is limited information on the need for bone augmentation in the context of delayed implant placement whether alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) is previously performed or not. The primary aim of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate the efficacy of ARP therapy after tooth extraction compared with unassisted socket healing (USH) in reducing the need for ancillary bone augmentation before or at the time of implant placement.

Methods

Adult subjects that underwent non‐molar single tooth extraction with or without simultaneous ARP therapy were included in this study. Cone beam computed tomography scans obtained before tooth extraction and after a variable healing period were used to record the baseline facial bone thickness and to virtually plan implant placement according to a standard method. A logistic regression model was used to evaluate the effect of facial alveolar bone thickness upon tooth extraction and baseline therapy (USH or ARP) on the need for additional bone augmentation, adjusting for several covariates (i.e., age, sex, baseline KMW, and tooth type).

Results

One hundred and forty subjects that were equally distributed between both baseline therapy groups constituted the study population. Implant placement was deemed virtually feasible in all study sites. Simultaneous bone augmentation was considered necessary in 60% and 11.4% of the sites in the USH and ARP group, respectively. Most of these sites (64.2% in the USH group and 87.5% in the ARP group) exhibited a thin facial bone phenotype (<1 mm) at baseline. Logistic regression revealed that the odds of not needing ancillary bone augmentation were 17.8 times higher in sites that received ARP therapy. Furthermore, the need for additional bone augmentation was reduced 7.7 times for every 1 mm increase in facial bone thickness, regardless of baseline therapy.

Conclusions

Based on a digital analysis, ARP therapy, compared with USH, and thick facial alveolar bone largely reduce the need for ancillary bone augmentation at the time of implant placement in non‐molar sites.
Immunosuppressant prescribing patterns in elderly kidney transplant recipients using registry data from Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Cossart Amelia R. , Cottrell W. Neil , Mcstea Megan , Isbel Nicole M. , Campbell Scott B. , Staatz Christine E.
Published: March 2022

Background

The elderly is the fastest growing kidney transplant recipient group; however, they are more likely to die from immunosuppressant side effects than graft failure.

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore immunosuppressant prescribing practices in elderly kidney transplant recipients.

Method

We conducted a retrospective audit of registry data from the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant (ANZDATA) Registry between 2000 and 2015, to determine the actual prescribing trends of immunosuppressant drugs in elderly recipients (≥65 years). Drug choice and doses, prescribed initially and at 1‐year, were examined, with a survival analysis conducted to determine if drug regimen influenced graft survival.

Results

Six hundred and one elderly recipients were included in the analysis. Elderly patients were less likely to be prescribed tacrolimus at 1 year than younger patients, and median doses (149.3 vs 155.6 micrograms/kg; p < 0.05) were significantly lower in elderly patients across the timeframe (initially and at 1‐year post‐transplant). We also observed that elderly recipients prescribed dual immunosuppressant therapy (compared to triple therapy) had an increased risk of graft loss (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

By examining Registry data across a 15‐year span, we observed differences in both immunosuppressant usage and drug dosing trends in elderly recipients. The implications of these findings may suggest that guidelines need adjustment to reflect this.
First‐principle investigation of defect‐associated LVM and structural parameter dependency in response to the ground state on‐site Hubbard correction of w‐ZnO
Authors: Ahmed Eliyash , Senthilkumar Kasilingam
Published: March 2022

We report a combined experimental (at 81 K, room temperature) and theoretical Raman study of plasma synthesized ZnO nanoparticles. The linear response method calculates the on‐site Coulomb interaction (Hubbard correction) energies Ud = 12.65 eV and Up = 7.65 eV. The structural changes and hybridization mechanism of the d‐p orbital of Zn and O have shown a significant role in bandgap discrepancies. Density of state (DOS) calculations under the influence of Hubbard correction explains the d‐band energy shift mechanism. Over underestimation of bandgap energies phenomena turns out to be highly sensitive to the choice of pseudopotential, and a series of calculations have been reported to converse to greater accuracy. The theoretical calculation was made possible using generalized gradient approximation (GGA)‐based basis set Perdew, Burke, and Ernzerh (PBE); B3LYP; and local density approximation (LDA). Estimates improve accuracy by including the Hubbard correction energy to the ground state energy calculation using the LDA. We have provided approximations methods suitable for the defect complex study based on our systematic analysis among PBE, B3LYP, and LDA. For the correlated system, the choice of pseudopotential is primarily essential; therefore, the present article also discusses the application of Hubbard correction energy only to a specific orbital and consequences. Experimentally observed fundamental and multiphonon decay processes are explained. The defect trapped hydrogen and defect complex configuration state
, m = 1, …, 4, local vibrational mode is observed. Systematic molecular design and simulation support the experimentally reported results. The VZn, in association with a single 1s electron of hydrogen, compromises state followed by silent, and second‐order features are presented.
Risk factors for acute mental health symptoms and tobacco initiation in Coast Guard Responders to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill
Authors: Wang Jeanny H. , Denic‐Roberts Hristina , Goodie Jeffrey L. , Thomas Dana L. , Engel Lawrence S. , Rusiecki Jennifer A.
Published: March 2022

Acute mental health symptoms experienced during oil spill response work are understudied, especially among nonlocal responders. We assessed potential risk factors for acute mental health symptoms and tobacco initiation among U.S. Coast Guard responders to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil spill who completed a deployment exit survey. Cross‐sectional associations among responder characteristics, deployment‐related stressors (deployment duration, timing, crude oil exposure, physical symptoms, injuries), and professional help‐seeking for stressors experienced with concurrent depression/anxiety and tobacco initiation were examined. Log‐binomial regression was used to calculate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) and 95% confidence intervals. Sensitivity analyses excluded responders with a history of mental health conditions using health encounter data from the Military Health System Data Repository. Of the 4,855 responders, 75.5% were deployed from nonlocal/non‐Gulf home stations, 5.8% reported concurrent depression and anxiety, and 2.8% reported the initiation of any tobacco product during oil spill response. Self‐report of concurrent depression and anxiety was more prevalent among female responders and positively associated with longer deployments, crude oil exposure via inhalation, physical symptoms and injuries, and professional help–seeking during deployment, aPRs = 1.54–6.55. Tobacco initiation was inversely associated with older age and officer rank and positively associated with deployment‐related stressors and depression/anxiety during deployment, aPRs = 1.58–4.44. Associations remained robust after excluding responders with a history of mental health– and tobacco–related health encounters up to 3 years before deployment. Depression, anxiety, and tobacco initiation were cross‐sectionally associated with oil spill response work experiences among DWH responders, who largely originated outside of the affected community.
Heavy metal(loid)s in farmland soils on the Karst Plateau, Southwest China: An integrated analysis of geochemical baselines, source apportionment, and associated health risk
Authors: Han Jialiang , Liang Longchao , Zhu Yaru , Xu Xiaohang , Wang Le , Shang Lihai , Wu Pan , Wu Qixin , Qian Xiaoli , Qiu Guangle , Feng Xinbin
Published: March 2022

The Karst Plateau is characterized by elevated heavy metals (HM), the farmland soils in the Karst Plateau area is especially vulnerable to HM pollution. To cope with soil HM pollution and conduct precaution in Karst Plateau, the key bottleneck is to understand the pollution levels, sources, and priority‐control of HM. Hence, geochemical baselines of HM in farmland soils were established to accurately evaluate the pollution characteristics. Pollution sources were identified with multivariate statistics, geostatistical methods, and receptor models. Priority‐control of HM were distinguished via health assessments with a Monte Carlo simulation. A remarkable accumulation of Pb, Sb, Zn, As, and Cd was observed. Hotspots of As, Cd, Pb, Sb, and Zn clustered in the southwestern region of Hezhang. Pb–Zn related activities, cement product activities, coal mining, and coal combustion were dominant sources. Both noncarcinogenic risk and carcinogenic risk followed the order: children>adult females>adult males. As, Cd, and Pb were found to be priority contaminants in farmland soils in Hezhang.
Soil water movement differences relating to banana (Musa nana Lour.) plantation regime
Authors: Zhang Wanjun , Zhu Xiai , Ji Shuoyang , Chen Chunfeng , Zeng Huanhuan , Zou Xin , Yang Bin , Jiang Xiaojin , Liu Wenjie
Published: March 2022

The long‐term cultivation of banana crops (Musa nana Lour.) has caused improper utilization of soil and water resources. However, the effect of the banana plantation regime on soil water flow pattern is still poorly understood. This study focused on the dominant pattern of soil water movement in the 1‐year (B1) and 4‐year (B2) old banana plantations. The results showed that: (1) the soil physical properties showed variability with soil depths, especially obvious changes from surface to 40 cm depth, which had restriction on soil infiltration in different depths. (2) The saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) decreased with the increasing distance from the banana stem. Moreover, the Ks in the B2 plot increased by 65.5% compared to the B1 plot at the soil layer 0–20 cm. (3) Preferential flow was the main path of soil water transport and was significantly influenced by soil bulk density, porosity, and root systems. Redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that banana root biomass was the most prominent factor influencing the dyed area. (4) The soil infiltrability and the preferential flow degree of both B1 and B2 plots were stronger in the root zone than those in the non‐root zone. Such results were attributed to the root systems around the banana stem that were more developed than those far away from the stem (more accurately pseudostems); a large number of pore channels formed around the root systems that promoted the preferential flow. Or results suggest that banana root was the important factor affecting soil water movement. The improvement in the root network of banana plantation regime can result in better soil physical properties. This knowledge will be vital for the sustainable cultivation and irrigation of banana crops.
Fabrication of Silver Nanoclusters and Nanocomposite Films Based on Coordinated Electrodeposition of Carboxymethyl Cellulose
Authors: Li Duanming , Wang Kanglong , Liu Jun , Yang Yan , Chen Zongming , Xu Zequan , Chen Yanjun , Wang Yifeng
Published: March 2022

Here, a facile and green approach based on the coordinated electrodeposition of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is developed to fabricate silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) and AgNCs/CMC nanocomposite films. In the approach, CMC not only serves as the electrodeposition polysaccharide, but also acts as the stabilizing agent and reducing agent for the synthesis of AgNCs, as well as the major component in the resulting AgNCs/CMC nanocomposite film. After the electrodeposition and incubation, a homogeneous and smooth film is generated on the anodic electrode, which exhibits a clear yellow florescence. Transmission electron microscopy observation shows that there are nanoparticles with the average size of 1.7 nm in the nanocomposite film. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectroscopy both confirm that there are AgNCs in the nanocomposite film. The AgNCs/CMC nanocomposite film shows the capability for fluorescence detection by using the fluorescence quenching features of AgNCs. Moreover, the AgNCs/CMC‐modified electrode can be conveniently and directly produced, which presents potential applications for electrochemical biosensors. Thus, this study provides a novel approach for the green synthesis of AgNCs and direct fabrication of the AgNCs/CMC nanocomposite film, which can be promisingly applied for constructing functional nanocomposites and advanced biodevices.
The clinical utility of a risk‐modifying SNP to detect carriers for spinal muscular atrophy with increased sensitivity
Authors: Ware Gardenier , Miller Cecelia , Jones Dan , Avenarius Matthew
Published: March 2022

Background

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive motor neuron disease caused by biallelic inactivation of the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene. With a prevalence of ~1 in 11,000 live births (carrier frequency of ~1:50), SMA is one of the most common severe childhood‐onset diseases; therefore, current guidelines recommend pan‐ethnic carrier screening for SMA before or during pregnancy.

Routine SMN1 copy number assessment detects ~96% of all SMA carriers, but not the remaining 4% who harbor two copies of SMN1 arrayed in ‐cis [2 + 0]. The c.*3+80T>G risk‐modifying SNP positively correlates with this chromosomal configuration and may be used to modify the residual risk of being a carrier for SMA.

Methods

One year after incorporating the detection of the c.*3+80>G risk‐modifying SNP into our routine SMA carrier screen, we perform a retrospective chart review to evaluate its frequency and utilization in the prenatal clinic.

Results

In comparison with classic carriers for SMA, study data show that individuals with two copies of SMN1 and the risk modifier were counseled less frequently about their increased risk of being a carrier for SMA.

Conclusion

Incorporating the c.*3+80T>G risk‐modifying SNP is important for detecting carriers for SMA with a higher clinical sensitivity.
Novel and recurrent nuclear gene variations in a cohort of Chinese progressive external ophthalmoplegia patients with multiple mtDNA deletions
Authors: Hou Yue , Zhao Xutong , Xie Zhiying , Yu Meng , Lv He , Zhang Wei , Yuan Yun , Wang Zhaoxia
Published: March 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the clinical and genetic spectrum in Chinese patients with multiple mtDNA deletions presenting with autosomal‐inherited mitochondrial progressive external ophthalmoplegia (PEO).

Methods

Long‐range polymerase chain reaction and massively parallel sequencing of the mitochondrial genome were performed to detect deletions in muscle mtDNA of 274 unrelated families. Then, targeted next generation sequencing was used to detect nuclear gene variations in patients with multiple mtDNA deletions.

Results

A total of 40 Chinese PEO patients (10 males and 30 females) from 20 families were found to have multiple mtDNA deletions in this study, and the median age at onset was 35 (1–70) years. PEO and positive family history were the two prominent features of these patients, and ataxia, neuropathy, and hypogonadism were also present as onset symptoms in some patients. Fifteen of 20 probands with multiple mtDNA deletions were identified to carry nuclear gene variants; eight (40.0%) probands had variants within POLG, two (10.0%) within TWNK, two (10.0%) within RRM2B, two (10.0%) within TK2, and one (5.0%) within POLG2. A total of 24 variants were found in these five nuclear genes, of which 19 were novel. The causal nuclear genetic factors in five pedigrees remain undetermined.

Conclusions

The POLG gene is the most common disease‐causing gene in this group of PEO patients with multiple mtDNA deletions. While inherited PEO is the most prominent symptoms in these patients, genotypic and phenotypic heterogeneity still exist, for example in onset age, initial symptoms, and accompanying manifestations.
Modeling COVID‐19: Forecasting and analyzing the dynamics of the outbreaks in Hubei and Turkey
Authors: Aslan Ibrahim Halil , Demir Mahir , Wise Michael Morgan , Lenhart Suzanne
Published: March 2022

As the pandemic of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) rages worldwide, accurate modeling of the dynamics thereof is essential. However, since the availability and quality of data vary dramatically from region to region, accurate modeling directly from a global perspective is difficult. Nevertheless, via local data collected by certain regions, it is possible to develop accurate local prediction tools, which may be coupled to develop global models. In this study, we analyze the dynamics of local outbreaks of COVID‐19 via a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Utilizing a large amount of data available from the ebbing outbreak in Hubei, China, as a testbed, we predict the trajectory of daily cases, daily deaths, and other features of the Hubei outbreak. Through numerical experiments, we observe the effects of social distancing on the dynamics of the outbreak. Using knowledge gleaned from the Hubei outbreak, we apply our model to analyze the dynamics of the outbreak in Turkey. We provide forecasts for the peak of the outbreak and the daily number of cases and deaths in Turkey, by varying levels of social distancing and the transition rate which is from infected class to confirmed infected class.
Artificial neural networks for solving elliptic differential equations with boundary layer
Authors: Yuan Dongfang , Liu Wenhui , Ge Yongbin , Cui Guimei , Shi Lin , Cao Fujun
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we consider the artificial neural networks for solving the elliptic differential equation with boundary layer, in which the gradient of the solution changes sharply near the boundary layer. The solution of the boundary layer problems poses a huge challenge to both traditional numerical methods and artificial neural network methods. By theoretically analyzing the changing rate of the weights of the first hidden layer near the boundary layer, a mapping strategy is added in traditional neural network to improve the convergence of the loss function. Numerical examples are carried out for the 1D and 2D convection–diffusion equation with boundary layer. The results demonstrate that the modified neural networks significantly improve the ability in approximating the solutions with sharp gradient.
An improvement of the Kurchatov method by means of a parametric modification
Authors: Hernández‐Verón Miguel A. , Yadav Nisha , Magreñán Á. Alberto , Martínez Eulalia , Singh Sukhjit
Published: March 2022

In this work, a uniparametric generalization of the iterative method due to Kurchatov is presented. The iterative model presented is derivative‐free and approximates the solution of nonlinear equations when the operator is non‐differenciable. As the accessibility of the Kurchatov method is usually a problem in the application of the method, since the set of initial guesses that guarantee the convergence of the method is small, the main objective of this work is to improve the Kurchatov iterative method in its accessibility while maintaining and even increasing its speed of convergence. For this purpose, we introduce a variable parameter in the iterative function of the Kurchatov method that allows us to get a better approximation of the derivative by using a symmetric uniparameteric first‐order divided difference operator. We perform a complex dynamic study that corroborate the improvements in the accessibility region. Moreover, a complete analysis of the local and semilocal convergence is established for the new uniparametric iterative method. Finally, we apply the theoretical results to solve a nonlinear integral equation showing the usefulness of the work.
Dilation‐and‐modulation frame sets on the half real line
Authors: Li Yun‐Zhang , Li Ya‐Nan
Published: March 2022

Wavelet and Gabor frame sets on the real line have been extensively studied. Due to it not being a group under addition, the half real line admits no traditional wavelet and Gabor frames as the real line. In this paper, we introduce a class of dilation‐and‐modulation frame sets (
‐frame sets) on the half real line. We characterize
‐frame sets and
‐tight frame sets and obtain some sufficient conditions for
‐tight frame sets. In particular, we prove that
‐tight frame sets must be bounded, but
‐frame sets need not be bounded. Some examples are also provided.
Ultrafast imaging for uncovering laser–material interaction dynamics
Authors: Wang Du , Wei Shubin , Yuan Xiandan , Liu Zhiyuan , Weng Yueyun , Zhou Yuqi , Xiao Ting‐Hui , Goda Keisuke , Liu Sheng , Lei Cheng
Published: March 2022

The physical mechanism of the dynamics in laser–material interaction has been an important research area. In addition to theoretical analysis, direct imaging‐based observation of ultrafast dynamic processes is an important approach to understand many fundamental issues in laser–material interaction such as inertial confinement fusion (ICF), laser accelerator construction, and advanced laser production. In this review, the principles and applications of three types of commonly used ultrafast imaging methods are introduced, including the pump–probe, X‐ray diagnosis, and single‐shot optical burst imaging. We focus on the technical features such as the spatial and temporal resolution for each technique, and present several conventional applications.
Unusual find of osteolytic lesion on skeleton from the Middle Bronze Age—Possible case of peritoneal abscess
Authors: Vargová Lenka , Horáčková Ladislava , Šabatová Klára , Jarošová Ivana , Trampota František , Němečková Alena , Baldovič Marian , Patlevičová Andrea , Vymazalová Kateřina
Published: March 2022

During rescue archeological excavation in 2018, the skeletal remains of a young male with an unusually large and rare lytic focus in the right iliac fossa, dating to the Middle Bronze Age, were found at the Mikulov site (Czech Republic). The presented communication considers various diseases that could be the cause of this pathological condition (tuberculosis, syphilis, mycosis, parasitic diseases, tumors, peritoneal abscess). The examination methods used in this case were macroscopic examination, radiological, histological, and genetic analyses. Differential diagnosis helps us to focus upon the most likely etiologies, and in our opinion, we feel this erosive lesion was probably caused by inflammation from a peritoneal abscess associated with chronic appendicitis.
Selumetinib for symptomatic, inoperable plexiform neurofibromas in children with neurofibromatosis type 1: A national real‐world case series
Authors: Coltin Hallie , Perreault Sébastien , Larouche Valérie , Black Karina , Wilson Bev , Vanan Magimairajan Issai , Gupta Abha A. , Morgenstern Daniel A. , Parkin Patricia C. , Bouffet Eric , Ramaswamy Vijay
Published: March 2022

Neurofibromatosis type 1‐associated plexiform neurofibromas can cause debilitating symptoms and be life threatening. Treatment options are limited, given their tendency to regrow following surgery and their propensity to transform into malignant tumours following radiation. Selumetinib is an oral selective inhibitor of RAS‐mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) 1 and 2, which has shown efficacy for tumour shrinkage/stabilisation and symptom improvement. We report a national case series of 19 children treated with selumetinib. All patients experienced symptom improvement or stabilisation with an acceptable toxicity profile, including those patients previously treated with trametinib. This real‐world experience confirms previous trials showing significant clinical benefit for this patient population.
Tribological behavior of zinc oxide‐hydroxyapatite particulates filled dental restorative composite materials
Authors: Yadav Ramkumar , Meena Anoj , Patnaik Amar
Published: March 2022

The objective of the current study was to examine the tribological behavior of micro‐nano particulates filled dental restorative composite material. The dental composite was composed by organic and inorganic materials with different ratio. Nano hydroxyapatite filler was introduced with a step of 2 wt% up to 8 wt%, and zinc oxide was constant (20 wt%). The sliding wear test was performed on the pin‐on‐disc friction & wear test rig. In steady‐state wear conditions, a decreasing trend of specific‐wear‐rate was observed when the load was varied, while an increasing trend of specific‐wear‐rate was found when sliding velocity and time were varied. As per Taguchi design, the dental composite incorporated of 8 wt% nano‐hydroxyapatite at a normal load of 40 N and a sliding speed of 120 RPM and 23 min exhibits a minimum specific‐wear‐rate. As per ANOVA analysis, load and filler show a considerable effect on the specific‐wear‐rate of the DHZ dental samples, although sliding speed and time show a less significant contribution to the specific‐wear‐rate of the DHZ dental samples.
Synergetic impacts of two rigid nano‐scale inclusions on the mechanical and thermal performance of POM/carbon black/CaCO3 ternary nanocomposite systems
Authors: Mohsenzadeh Rasool , Soudmand Behzad H. , Shelesh‐Nezhad Karim
Published: March 2022

In the present contribution, the mechanical and thermal characteristics of polyoxymethylene (POM)/carbon black (CB)/CaCO3 (NCC) ternary nanocomposites were assessed through mechanical tests and morphological observations. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs indicated the uniform distribution of nanoparticles in the matrix. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) revealed a promotion of elastic response and lower energy dissipation in ternary nanocomposites against neat POM and single‐filled POM/CB samples. Tensile strength results showed the increase of tensile modulus and strength by 27% and 8% for the ternary nanocomposite compared to binary POM/CB. Flexural and impact properties were also enhanced with the inclusion of NCC as a second rigid phase. SEM observations of impact‐fractured surfaces at high magnifications revealed full and partial debonding of nanoparticles from the matrix and consequent cavitation in the matrix, which mainly contributed to impact toughening. Hashin‐Shtrikman model was employed to analyze its efficiency to predict Young's modulus of ternary nanocomposite systems.
Investigation on the dynamic behavior of composite gradient double‐arrow auxetic structure under local impact load
Authors: Zeng Wei , Ao Yaoliang , Yu Sheng , Liu Jiayi , Liu Jingxi , Huang Wei
Published: March 2022

Based on the design concept of functionally graded materials, the composite gradient double‐arrow auxetic structures were designed and fabricated. The thickness of core layers demonstrates an increasing trend for positive gradient structure, while a decreasing trend for negative gradient structure. The thickness of core layers keeps constant for homogeneous structure. The dynamic response and failure modes of the double‐arrow auxetic structure with different gradient distributions of wall thickness were obtained by foam projectile impact experiments. The influence of the gradient distribution of core wall thickness on the impact resistance of composite double‐arrow auxetic structures under local impact load was investigated. The results demonstrated that the gradient distribution of core wall thickness has an important influence on the dynamic response and failure modes of the structure. The negative gradient auxetic structure revealed more excellent impact resistance compared with the positive gradient auxetic structure. In addition, the response of the gradient double‐arrow auxetic structure under local impact load was simulated by ABAQUS/Explicit, and the simulation results were in good agreement with the experimental results. Combined with the experimental and numerical simulation results, it was found that the negative gradient distribution of core wall thickness had an obvious improvement on the impact resistance of composite double‐arrow auxetic structure under local impact load.
Back Cover Image, Volume 78, Issue 4
Authors: Yuan Ting , Wang Zhengxing , Liu Dan , Zeng Huanan , Liang Juncheng , Hu Deyu , Gan Xiuhai
Published: March 2022

The back cover image is based on the Research Article Ferulic acid derivatives with piperazine moiety as potential antiviral agents by Ting Yuan et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/ps.6794.

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High temperature exposure reduces the susceptibility of Helicoverpa armigera to its nucleopolyhedrovirus (HearNPV) by enhancing expression of heat shock proteins
Authors: Shen Zhong‐Jian , Liu Yan‐Jun , Cheng Jie , Li Zhen , Michaud J.P. , Liu Xiao‐Xia
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

High temperatures will occur more frequently with global warming, with potential impacts on the efficacy of biological control agents. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are induced by high temperature, but their possible roles in pest resistance to entomopathogens remain unexplored. We investigated the effects of high temperature (35 °C) on Helicoverpa armigera resistance to H. armigera nucleopolyhedrovirus (HearNPV) and the putative roles of HSPs in this process.

RESULTS

Even short periods (24 h) of high temperature (35 °C) reduced mortality in HearNPV‐infected H. armigera larvae. Sustained 35 °C exposure significantly shortened developmental time, and increased fresh weight and locomotor activity in infected larvae. Moreover, high temperature inhibited virus replication and thickened the epidermis of H. armigera, resulting in reduced spread of infection from cadavers. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis showed that expression of 11 HSP genes was altered by the 35 °C treatment, and that mostly small heat shock protein (sHSP) genes were up‐regulated, the same sHSPs were induced when larvae were infected with HearNPV. Finally, RNA interference (RNAi) suppression of these sHSPs showed that only Hsp24.91 and Hsp21.8 diminished H. armigera defensive responses to HearNPV infection.

CONCLUSION

Even short periods of exposure to high temperature can significantly reduce susceptibility of H. armigera larvae to HearNPV by stimulating the production of sHSPs which enhance immune responses, with important implications for the use of entomopathogens as biological control agents under global warming scenarios. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Successive Ion Layer Adsorption and Reaction Method Developed ZnO Thin Films for NO2 Gas Sensing
Authors: Sable Pradip B. , Abood Nabeel T. , Botewad Sunil N. , Dharne Gopichand M.
Published: March 2022

The present investigation deals with the NO2 gas detection via nanostructured zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films harvested over a glass substrate via a simple and facile successive ion layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) approach. ZnO nanostructured thin films are developed by different SILAR cycles (ZnO:15, ZnO:30, ZnO:45, ZnO:60). The physicochemical, optical, and morphological properties of prepared thin films are explored by various characterization techniques. The phase purity and grains size are confirmed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Scherrer formula, which reveal the hexagonal phase structure with variant grain size (≈16–21 nm). The surface morphology of deposited films shows the well‐dispersion of ZnO nanoparticles, which is picturized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), attenuated total reflectance (ATR). UV–Vis and FTIR spectroscopy elaborates on the optical properties and functional groups of ZnO films, respectively. Further, the sensing ability of ZnO thin films is studied with different concentrations (50–250 ppm) of NO2 gas in the span of 50 ppm by recording the resistance transient. The ZnO:30 thin‐film displays an enhanced gas sensing response of 1.42 GΩ at 100 °C compared to other synthesized films and at different temperature ranges. The ZnO:30 film shows the highly selective response toward the NO2 gas compared to other interference gas species. Thus, the present study highly recommends the investigated method for the ZnO thin film formation to be employed toward NO2 gas sensing.
Isotopically characterised N2O reference materials for use as community standards
Authors: Mohn Joachim , Biasi Christina , Bodé Samuel , Boeckx Pascal , Brewer Paul J. , Eggleston Sarah , Geilmann Heike , Guillevic Myriam , Kaiser Jan , Kantnerová Kristýna , Moossen Heiko , Müller Joanna , Nakagawa Mayuko , Pearce Ruth , von Rein Isabell , Steger David , Toyoda Sakae , Wanek Wolfgang , Wexler Sarah K. , Yoshida Naohiro , Yu Longfei
Published: March 2022

Rationale

Information on the isotopic composition of nitrous oxide (N2O) at natural abundance supports the identification of its source and sink processes. In recent years, a number of mass spectrometric and laser spectroscopic techniques have been developed and are increasingly used by the research community. Advances in this active research area, however, critically depend on the availability of suitable N2O isotope Reference Materials (RMs).

Methods

Within the project Metrology for Stable Isotope Reference Standards (SIRS), seven pure N2O isotope RMs have been developed and their 15N/14N, 18O/16O, 17O/16O ratios and 15N site preference (SP) have been analysed by specialised laboratories against isotope reference materials. A particular focus was on the 15N site‐specific isotopic composition, as this measurand is both highly diagnostic for source appointment and challenging to analyse and link to existing scales.

Results

The established N2O isotope RMs offer a wide spread in delta (δ) values: δ15N: 0 to +104‰, δ18O: +39 to +155‰, and δ15NSP: −4 to +20‰. Conversion and uncertainty propagation of δ15N and δ18O to the Air‐N2 and VSMOW scales, respectively, provides robust estimates for δ15N(N2O) and δ18O(N2O), with overall uncertainties of about 0.05‰ and 0.15‰, respectively. For δ15NSP, an offset of >1.5‰ compared with earlier calibration approaches was detected, which should be revisited in the future.

Conclusions

A set of seven N2O isotope RMs anchored to the international isotope‐ratio scales was developed that will promote the implementation of the recommended two‐point calibration approach. Particularly, the availability of δ17O data for N2O RMs is expected to improve data quality/correction algorithms with respect to δ15NSP and δ15N analysis by mass spectrometry. We anticipate that the N2O isotope RMs will enhance compatibility between laboratories and accelerate research progress in this emerging field.