bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lemur paparazzi: Arboreal camera trapping and occupancy modeling as conservation tools for monitoring threatened lemur species
Authors: Chen Devin M. , Narváez‐Torres Pamela R. , Tiafinjaka Olivia , Farris Zach J. , Rasoloharijaona Solofonirina , Louis Edward E. , Johnson Steig E.
Published: May 2021

Primate species face growing risks of extinction throughout the world. To better protect their populations, effective monitoring techniques are needed. The goal of this study was to evaluate the use of arboreal camera traps and occupancy modeling as conservation tools for threatened lemur species. This project aimed to (1) estimate the occupancy and detection probabilities of lemur species, (2) investigate factors potentially affecting lemur habitat use, and (3) determine whether ground or arboreal cameras are better for surveying lemur assemblages. We conducted camera trapping research in five forest fragments (total trap nights = 1770; 900 arboreal trap nights (134 photo events); 870 ground trap nights (2 photo events)) and reforestation areas (total trap nights = 608; 1 photo event) in Kianjavato, Madagascar from May to September 2019. We used arboreal trap data from fragments to estimate occupancy for five species: the red‐fronted brown lemur (Eulemur rufifrons;ψ = 0.54 ± SD0.03), Jolly's mouse lemur (Microcebus jollyae;ψ = 0.14 ± 0.17), the greater dwarf lemur (Cheirogaleus major;ψ = 0.42 ± 0.30), the red‐bellied lemur (Eulemur rubriventer;ψ = 0.24 ± 0.03), and the black‐and‐white ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata;ψ = 0.24 ± 0.08). Tree diameter, elevation, distance to village, and canopy connectivity were important predictors of occupancy, while camera height, canopy connectivity, fragment ID, and fragment size predicted detection. Arboreal cameras recorded significantly higher species richness compared with ground cameras. We suggest expanded application of arboreal camera traps in future research, but we recommend longer trapping periods to better sample rarer species. Overall, arboreal camera trapping combined with occupancy modeling can be a highly efficient and useful approach for monitoring and predicting the occurrence of elusive lemur species and has the potential to be effective for other arboreal primates and canopy taxa across the globe.
Interfacial Polymerization at the Alkane/Ionic Liquid Interface
Authors: Liu Chang , Yang Jing , Guo Bian‐Bian , Agarwal Seema , Greiner Andreas , Xu Zhi‐Kang
Published: May 2021

Polymerization at the liquid–liquid interface has attracted much attention for synthesizing ultrathin polymer films for molecular sieving. However, it remains a major challenge to conduct this process outside the alkane–water interface since it not only suffers water‐caused side reactions but also is limited to water‐soluble monomers. Here, we report the interfacial polymerization at the alkane/ionic liquid interface (IP@AILI) where the ionic liquid acts as the universal solvent for diversified amines to synthesize task‐specific polyamide nanofilms. We propose that IP@AILI occurs when acyl chloride diffuses from the alkane into the ionic liquid instead of being triggered by the diffusion of amines as in the conventional alkane–water system, which is demonstrated by thermodynamic partitioning and kinetic monitoring. The prepared polyamide nanofilms with precisely adjustable pore sizes display unprecedented permeability and selectivity in various separation processes.
2,4‐Dinitrophenol: ‘diet’ drug death following major trauma
Authors: Freeman N. , Moir D. , Lowis E. , Tam E.
Published: May 2021

There has been a resurgence in the illicit use of 2,4‐dinitrophenol by people wishing to achieve rapid weight loss. Despite its availability, the drug is banned for human consumption as it is toxic and can have fatal consequences. We present the case of a 23‐year‐old man who regularly consumed 2,4‐dinitrophenol to generate fat loss without apparent ill effect. He was involved in a high‐speed road traffic collision and sustained limb‐threatening injuries. The combination of emergency surgery, trauma and 2,4‐dinitrophenol consumption culminated in deterioration under anaesthesia, with subsequent death from multiorgan failure in the intensive care unit 48 h later. Previous cases have reported death from 2,4‐dinitrophenol toxicity alone. We believe this is the first reported case of 2,4‐dinitrophenol toxicity triggered by the additional physiological stress of polytrauma and emergency surgery.
Thermal stability, surface wettability and mechanical behavior of highly ordered ZnO‐doped thermoplastic polyurethane films with hierarchically porous structures
Authors: Yin Zuozhu , Yuan Feng , Zhou Dongpeng , Li Min , Chen Xiaoxiang , Liu Yan , Xue Mingshan , Luo Yidan , Hong Zhen , Xie Chan
Published: May 2021

In this paper, the effect of ZnO nanoparticle on thermal, microstructure, mechanical behavior, superhydrophobicity of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), ZnO/TPU composite materials with doped‐ZnO nanoparticles were obtained via a solution blending method. The results show that the melting temperature region in soft segments of ZnO/TPU composite materials was the transition temperature region. The added ZnO slightly enhances the crystalline slipped of ZnO/TPU composite materials, and effectively hinder the transfer of high temperature small gas molecules. Due to the added ZnO nanoparticles, the microphase separation and ordered structures in TPU are reduced. In TPU, and between TPU and ZnO nanoparticles, there are variations in electron density at hard phase and soft phase interfaces. The good ZnO/TPU composites exhibit high water repellence with water contact angle of ~157°. The prepared ZnO/TPU nanocomposites show mechanical properties that are superior to those of pristine TPU. Tensile strength and storage modulus increase by 47.1% and 39.8% at ZnO loading values of 10 wt%. The results indicate that thermal behavior, microstructure, superhydrophobicity and the mechanical behavior of TPU composite materials can be enhanced by the doped ZnO.
Polydimethylsiloxane crosslinking kinetics: A systematic study on Sylgard184 comparing rheological and thermal approaches
Authors: Bardelli Tiziana , Marano Claudia , Briatico Vangosa Francesco
Published: May 2021

In this work a systematic investigation of crosslinking kinetics of Sylgard184 polydimethylsiloxane is performed in both isothermal and dynamic conditions. The results are discussed in terms of two conversions, αC and αR determined by thermal and rheological analysis, respectively. Thermal analysis can well detect the first stage of the reaction, while rheological analysis starts being sensitive only at longer time. However, once the rheological response is observable, it changes with time faster than the calorimetric one. From rheology experiments it comes out that the gel point occurs at αR = 0.53, independently of the applied thermal history. At gel point, αC is around 0.30 indicating that about 30% of the bonds involved in the crosslinking process is enough to create an infinite network. A modified version of the Kamal's autocatalytic model allows to fit and predict the experimental findings from both the techniques; however, two distinct sets of parameters have been used. The results of this work may be a useful tool to design appropriate curing cycles for the preparation of Sylgard184.
Robust predictive iterative learning control for linear time‐varying systems
Authors: Liang Chao , Zou Yun , Cai Chenxiao
Published: May 2021

A novel control technique is proposed by combining iterative learning control (ILC) with model predictive control (MPC) for a trajectory tracking problem of linear time‐varying systems (LTVSs) in this paper. By introducing prediction mechanism along both of the iteration and time directions instead of only one direction, the control law is successively updated along two directions by learning from the predictive and compensatory information. The new control law can improve convergence speed and effectively suppress the uncertainties in initial states, external disturbances, and model mismatches. The convergence conditions are rigorously derived and analyzed as well. An example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained results.
Testing the extreme male brain hypothesis: Is autism spectrum disorder associated with a more male‐typical brain?
Authors: van Eijk Liza , Zietsch Brendan P.
Published: May 2021

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is more common in males than females and has been linked to male‐typical behavior. Accordingly, the “Extreme Male Brain” hypothesis suggests that ASD is associated with an exaggeratedly male‐typical brain. To test this hypothesis, we derived a data‐driven measure of individual differences along a male–female dimension based on sex differences in subcortical brain shape (i.e., brain maleness) by training our algorithm on two population samples (Queensland Twin IMaging study and Human Connectome Project; combined N = 2153). We then applied this algorithm to two clinical datasets (Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange I and II; ASD N = 1060; neurotypical controls N = 1166) to obtain a brain maleness score for each individual, representing maleness of their brain on a male–female continuum. Consistent with the Extreme Male Brain hypothesis, we found a higher mean brain maleness score in the ASD group than in controls (d = 0.20 [0.12–0.29]), parallel to higher scores for control males than control females (d = 1.17 [1.05–1.29]). Further, brain maleness was positively associated with autistic symptoms. We tested the possibility this finding was driven by the ASD group's larger brains than controls (d = 0.17 [0.08–0.25]), given that males had larger brains than females (d = 0.96 [0.84–1.07]). Indeed, after adjusting for differences in brain size, the brain maleness difference between the ASD group and controls disappeared, and no association with autistic symptoms remained (after controlling for multiple comparisons), suggesting greater maleness of the autistic brain is driven by brain size. Brain maleness may be influenced by the same factors that influence brain size.

Lay Summary

A popular theory proposes that individuals with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) have an “extreme male brain”, but this has not been subject to rigorous, direct tests. We developed a measure of individual differences along a male–female dimension and then derived this measure for 1060 individuals with ASD and 1166 neurotypical controls. Individuals with ASD had slightly more male‐type brains. However, this difference is accounted for by males and individuals with ASD having relatively larger brains than females and controls, respectively.
Advancement in biosensor: “Telediagnosis” and “remote digital imaging”
Authors: Gopinath Subash C.B. , Ismail Zool Hilmi , Shapiai Mohd Ibrahim , Yasin Mohd Najib Mohd
Published: May 2021

Current developments in sensors and actuators are heralding a new era to facilitate things to happen effortlessly and efficiently with proper communication. On the other hand, Internet of Things (IoT) has been boomed up with er potential and occupies a wide range of disciplines. This study has choreographed to design of an algorithm and a smart data‐processing scheme to implement the obtained data from the sensing system to transmit to the receivers. Technically, it is called “telediagnosis” and “remote digital monitoring,” a revolution in the field of medicine and artificial intelligence. For the proof of concept, an algorithmic approach has been implemented for telediagnosis with one of the degenerative diseases, that is, Parkinson's disease. Using the data acquired from an improved interdigitated electrode, sensing surface was evaluated with the attained sensitivity of 100 fM (n = 3), and the limit of detection was calculated with the linear regression value coefficient. By the designed algorithm and data processing with the assistance of IoT, further validation was performed and attested the coordination. This proven concept can be ideally used with all sensing strategies for immediate telemedicine by end‐to‐end communications.
A review of the literature on vocational training interventions with individuals with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Campanaro Alexandra M. , Vladescu Jason C. , Manente Christopher J. , Deshais Meghan A. , DeBar Ruth M.
Published: May 2021

Due to the low employment rates of adults with autism spectrum disorder, it is important to identify efficient and effective methods to teach these individuals vocational skills. The purpose of the current literature review was to expand on the previous reviews, to identify all studies regardless of participant age that taught vocational skills. A total of 50 articles containing 53 experiments were retained and included in the final review. The most commonly used interventions either alone or as part of packaged intervention included video modeling, behavioral skills training, feedback, and video prompting. Articles were coded according to various participant characteristics, settings, intervention methodologies and outcomes. Overall results and implications for future research are discussed.
A signal conversion system using binding‐induced strand displacement for disease biomarker assay
Authors: Jiang Yuling , Yang Peng , Du Lijie , Xia Lingying , Chen Junbo , Hou Xiandeng
Published: May 2021

Using the principle of binding‐induced DNA strand displacement (BINSD), a DNAzyme‐powered nanomachine biosensor for multiple biomarkers via magnetic beads‐based signal conversion was designed. This sensor can convert multiple biomarker recognition into release of predesigned output nucleic acids tagged with streptavidin proteins (SA‐DNA) for activation of DNA nanomachines. In general, we adopted complementary base pairing rules and affinity ligand specific recognition, and three types of signal conversion systems were constructed that realized universal, sensitive, accurate, and specific detection of multiple biomarkers. Taking the advantage of the strong anti‐interference capability of magnetic separation, this strategy could be used for detection of various biomarkers in clinical practice.
Climate‐Simulated culturing suggests high microalgal biomass and oil productivities in most of the South American continent
Authors: Coronel Camila D. , Curatti Leonardo
Published: May 2021

Background

Current production costs of microalgal biomass indicate that only highly‐productive cultivation facilities will approach commercial feasibility. Geographical site selection for siting those facilities is critical for achieving target productivities. The aim of this study was to provide a semi‐empirical estimation of microalgal biomass and lipids productivity in South America.

Methods and Results

Simulated‐climate was programed in environmental photobioreactors (Phenometrics) for a simulation of cultivation in open raceway ponds at different geographical sites. The mean annual South American biomass productivity of 20‐cm deep ponds was 12 ± 4 g · m− 2 · d−1. The most productive regions were clustered in the subtropical and tropical regions of the continent. Fortaleza (Brazil) showed a low seasonality and a high annual mean productivity of 23 g · m−2 · d−1 in 5‐cm deep ponds, closely approaching the productivity target. Lipids accumulation and productivity in Fortaleza showed a high microalgal oil accumulation up to 46% (w/w) and a maximum oil productivity of 5 g · m−2 · d−1 for biomass containing around 20% lipids (w/w).

Conclusion

This study provides the first semi‐empirical estimation of microalgal productivity in South America and supports a high potential of a vast region of the continent.
“Hoping for life means waiting for death”: Emotional anchoring and themata in media reporting on paediatric organ donation
Authors: Norton Maddison , Moloney Gail , Sutherland Michael , Sargeant Sally , Bowling Alison
Published: May 2021

Paediatric organ donation rates in Australia do not match the demand for paediatric organ transplants. Paediatric donations require parents to consent to donate the organs of their child, yet little research exists on how paediatric donation is understood outside of the medical world. Drawing from social representation theory, we examined how paediatric donation was portrayed by the media, the primary source of information about organ donation. Fifty‐nine newspaper articles, across eight Australian newspapers, were subjected to thematic analysis. Common themes coalesced around the paediatric donation decision, what the decision means for parents, and the experiences of paediatric transplant recipients and their families. Donation and transplantation were portrayed either as a contradiction, where a child was required to die in order for a child to live, or as mutually beneficial, where donation was a positive outcome of a tragic death. Interpreted within a dialogical framework, we suggest that notions of contradiction and mutual benefit are generated by the underlying thema life/death, and shaped in tandem by the paediatric context. The roles of themata, emotional anchoring, and objectification are discussed. Importantly, this study highlights the need to investigate the interplay between emotional contradiction, mutual dependence, and parental decision‐making about paediatric organ donation.
Combined heart transplantation and replacement of atheromatous proximal arch
Authors: Sugimura Yukiharu , Mehdiani Arash , Katahira Shintaro , Loberg Christina , Aubin Hug , Lichtenberg Artur , Boeken Udo , Akhyari Payam
Published: May 2021

Concomitant surgery on the aortic arch with hypothermic cardiac arrest in the setting of heart transplantation (HTX) is extremely rare. Herein, we report a case of combined HTX and proximal arch replacement at our institution.
Addison's disease in antiphospholipid syndrome: A rare complication
Authors: Yazdi Farzaneh , Shakibi Mohammad Reza , Mirkamali Hanieh , Baniasad Amir
Published: May 2021

The association of APS and AI is rare, but it is very important, and in cases where there is an evidence in favor of the association of these two diseases, due to the importance of early treatment of both diseases, further evaluation is necessary.
A case of insulinoma with hypoglycemia that was better managed with lanreotide than octreotide
Authors: Yamaoka Keiko , Nagashima Shuichi , Okada Nobukazu , Sawayama Nagisa , Saito Shinsuke , Takahashi Manabu , Okada Kenta , Endo Kazuhiro , Koizumi Masaru , Sasanuma Hideki , Ebihara Ken , Kasajima Atsuko , Fukushima Noriyoshi , Sata Naohiro , Ishibashi Shun
Published: May 2021

Long‐acting somatostatin analogs, including lanreotide slow release (LAN‐SR) and octreotide long‐acting release (OCT‐LAR), can improve hypoglycemia in insulinoma. LAN‐SR may be more beneficial in some patients with insulinoma than OCT‐LAR.
Opportunistic peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis: The example of Paracoccusyeei
Authors: Fosso Christelle , Maillart Evelyne , Beun Bram , Touzani Fahd , Mahadeb Bhavna , Clevenbergh Philippe
Published: May 2021

Paracoccus yeei, a Gram‐negative coccobacillus, is an emergent opportunistic pathogen. It originates from soil and water. VITEK and MALDI‐TOF are used for identification. There are few reports of peritoneal dialysis peritonitis. Its presentation is usually indolent. It can be successfully treated with several antibiotics: β‐lactams, aminoglycosides, without removing the catheter.
Simultaneous intraocular and cutaneous extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma refractory to multiple therapies including pembrolizumab
Authors: Mallal Peter , Ammanuel Benhur , White Rohen , Kennedy Chris , Cheah Chan Yoon
Published: May 2021

Key Clinical Message

Floaters or visual disturbance in a patient with ENKL should prompt evaluation for possible vitreoretinal involvement. Lymphoma with ocular involvement should be treated aggressively and in most cases heralds CNS involvement.
Griscelli Syndrome in a seven years old girl
Authors: Moradveisi Borhan , Karimi Avat , Behzadi Shirin , Zakaryaei Farima
Published: May 2021

In this study, a case of Griscelli Syndrome (GS) in a 7 years old girl was reported. The patient initially presented with fever and pancytopenia in laboratory results; after ruling out the malignancies, she went under treatment with the diagnosis of infectious disease and was discharged after two weeks. Nevertheless, ten days after discharge, she developed new symptoms. Due to patient symptoms and general appearance, microscopic analysis of her hair shaft was done, and the abnormal distribution of pigments in the shaft was observed, indicating GS.
Dendritic‐Like Molecules Built on a Pillar[5]arene Core as Hole Transporting Materials for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Bettucci Ottavia , Pascual Jorge , Turren‐Cruz Silver‐Hamill , Cabrera‐Espinoza Andrea , Matsuda Wakana , Völker Sebastian F. , Köbler Hans , Nierengarten Iwona , Reginato Gianna , Collavini Silvia , Seki Shu , Nierengarten Jean‐François , Abate Antonio , Delgado Juan Luis
Published: May 2021

Invited for the cover of this issue are the groups of S. Seki (Kyoto), G. Reginato (Sesto Fiorentino), J.‐F. Nierengarten (Strasbourg), A. Abate (Berlin) and J. L. Delgado (San Sebastian). The image depicts an artistic view of a dendrimer‐like hole transporting material at work in a perovskite solar cell. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202101110.
Impact of short‐term Dutasteride treatment on prostate‐specific membrane antigen expression in a mouse xenograft model
Authors: Kranzbühler Benedikt , Sousa Rosa , Prause Lukas , Burger Irene A. , Rupp Niels J. , Sulser Tullio , Salemi Souzan , Eberli Daniel
Published: May 2021

Background

Dutasteride has been shown to increase expression of the prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA) in prostate cancer cells in previous in vitro studies. This 5‐alpha‐reductase inhibitor is commonly used for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic enlargement. The modulation of PSMA expression might affect PSMA‐based prostate cancer imaging and therapy.

Aim

The purpose of this work was to further analyze concentration‐dependent effects of Dutasteride on PSMA expression in a mouse xenograft model.

Methods and results

Four groups of mice bearing LNCaP xenografts were treated for 14 days with daily intraperitoneal injections of either vehicle control or different concentrations of Dutasteride (0.1, 1, 10 mg/kg). Total expression of PSMA, androgen receptor (AR), and caspase‐3 protein was analyzed using immunoblotting (WES). In addition, PSMA, cleaved caspase‐3 and Ki‐67 expression was assessed and quantified by immunohistochemistry. Tumor size was measured by caliper on day 7 and 14, tumor weight was assessed following tissue harvesting.

The mean PSMA protein expression in mice increased significantly after treatment with 1 mg/kg (10‐fold) or 10 mg/kg (sixfold) of Dutasteride compared to vehicle control. The mean fluorescence intensity significantly increased by daily injections of 0.1 mg/kg Dutasteride (1.6‐fold) as well as 1 and 10 mg/kg Dutasteride (twofold). While the reduction in tumor volume following treatment with high concentrations of 10 mg/kg Dutasteride was nonsignificant, no changes in AR, caspase‐3, cleaved caspase‐3, and Ki‐67 expression were observed.

Conclusion

Short‐term Dutasteride treatments with concentrations of 1 and 10 mg/kg significantly increase the total PSMA protein expression in a mouse LNCaP xenograft model. PSMA fluorescence intensity increases significantly even using lower daily concentrations of 0.1 mg/kg Dutasteride. Further investigations are needed to elucidate the impact of Dutasteride treatment on PSMA expression in patients.
15N SABRE Hyperpolarization of Metronidazole at Natural Isotope Abundance
Authors: Kiryutin Alexey S. , Yurkovskaya Alexandra V. , Ivanov Konstantin L.
Published: May 2021

Signal Amplification By Reversible Exchange (SABRE) is gaining increased attention as a tool to enhance weak Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) signals. In SABRE, spin order is transferred from parahydrogen (H2 in its nuclear singlet spin state) to a substrate molecule in a transient Ir‐based complex. In recent years, SABRE polarization of biologically active substrates has been demonstrated, notably of metronidazole – an antibiotic and antiprotozoal drug. In this work, we study 15N SABRE polarization of metronidazole at natural isotope abundance. We are able to demonstrate significant 15N polarization reaching 15 %, which corresponds to a signal enhancement of 46,000 at 9.4 T for the nitrogen atom with lone electron pair. Additionally, the other two N‐atoms can be polarized, although less efficiently. We present a detailed study of the field dependence of polarization and explain the maxima in the field dependence using the concept of coherent polarization transfer at level anti‐crossings in the SABRE complex. A study of spin relaxation phenomena presented here enables optimization of the magnetic field for efficient storage of non‐thermal polarization.
Boost faculty morale by recognizing excellent service
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: May 2021

John Geer has been at Vanderbilt University for 26 years. “I'm kind of an accidental administrator — it's not something I ever thought I'd do,” Geer said. But when then‐Chancellor Nick Zeppos asked Geer to co‐lead the university strategic plan, telling Geer he wanted him to experience the university from Zeppos’ perspective for a year, Geer agreed.
Deans give advice to deans, Part I
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: May 2021

Learning from the experience of others can save you time and potential heartache in any role. As it's been over 10 years since I've been a dean, I asked experienced deans who are in the trenches now, or were recently, to provide advice to fellow current deans. I received so much great advice that I've decided to do a three‐part summer series on the topic. I hope it will be something helpful to new deans, seasoned deans, and other leaders.
The effectiveness of the Milan system for risk stratification of salivary gland lesions: The 10‐year cytohistopathological correlation results of salivary gland FNA cytology at a tertiary center
Authors: Aksoy Altinboga Aysegul , Yildirim Fatma , Ahsen Hilal , Kiran Merve Meryem , Kesici Gulin Gokcen , Yuce Gokhan
Published: May 2021

Background

The Milan system reporting salivary gland cytopathology (MSRSGC) is a tiered classification scheme that is based on risk stratification. The aim of the current study was to assess the risk of malignancy (ROM) and risk of neoplasia (RON) in each of the diagnostic categories proposed by the MSRSGC.

Methods

A retrospective analysis and categorization according to the MSRSGC was made of salivary gland fine needle aspirations (FNA) performed from January 2007 to December 2017. The FNA cytology results were correlated with subsequent histological follow‐up.

Results

A total of 578 FNAs were evaluated and histopathology was available for 198 cases (34.2%). The RON and ROM for individual diagnostic categories were: Non‐diagnostic: 52.2% to 13%, non‐neoplastic: 21.4% to 10.7%, atypia of undetermined significance: 74% to 22.2%, benign neoplasm: 100% to 1.1%, salivary gland neoplasm of uncertain malignant potential: 93.3% to 53.3%, suspicious for malignancy (SFM): 100% to 100%, and malignant: 100% to 100%. A diagnosis of 'SFM' or 'malignant' with FNA cytology carried a 100% risk for malignancy, while a diagnosis of “non‐neoplastic,” “benign neoplasm” reduced the probability of malignancy to 3.4%.

Conclusion

The MSRSGC is useful for the management of salivary gland lesions as it can successfully differentiate between benign and malignant cases. It will bring uniformity in salivary gland FNA cytology reporting across various institutions globally.
Dynamic network topological properties for classifying primary dysmenorrhoea in the pain‐free phase
Authors: Wu Xiaoyan , Yu Wenjun , Hu Huijun , Su Yun , Liang Zhiying , Bai Zhiqiang , Tian Xuwei , Yang Li , Shen Jun
Published: May 2021

Background

Primary dysmenorrhoea (PDM) is known to alter brain static functional activity. This study aimed to explore the dynamic topological properties (DTP) of dynamic brain functional network in women with PDM in the pain‐free phase and their performance in distinguishing PDM in the pain‐free phase from healthy controls.

Methods

Thirty‐five women with PDM and 38 healthy women without PDM were included. A dynamic brain functional network was constructed using the slide‐window approach. The stability (TP‐Stab) and variability (TP‐Var) of the DTP of the dynamic functional network were computed using the graph‐theory method. A support vector machine (SVM) was used to evaluate the performance of DTP in identifying PDM in the pain‐free phase.

Results

Compared with healthy controls, women with PDM had not only lower TP‐Stab in global DTP, which included cluster clustering coefficient (Cp), characteristic path length (Lp), global efficiency (Eg) and local efficiency (Eloc), but also lower TP‐Stab and higher TP‐Var in nodal DTP (nodal efficiency, Enod), mainly in the prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, parahippocampal regions and insula. The TP‐Stab and TP‐Var were significantly correlated with psychological variables, that is positive emotions, sense of control and meaningful existence. SVM analysis showed that the DTP could identify PDM in the pain‐free phase from healthy controls with an accuracy of 79.31%, sensitivity of 82.61% and specificity of 76%.

Conclusions

Women with PDM in the pain‐free phase have altered global DTP and nodal DTP, mainly involving pain‐related neurocircuits. The highly variable brain network is helpful for identifying PDM in the pain‐free phase.

Significance

This study shows that women with primary dysmenorrhoea (PDM) have decreased stability of dynamic network topological properties (DTP) and increased DTP variability in the pain‐free phase. The altered DTP can be used to identify PDM in the pain‐free phase. These findings demonstrate the presence of unstable characteristics in the whole network and disrupted pain‐related neurocircuits, which might be used as potential classifiers for PDM in the pain‐free phase. This study improves our knowledge of the brain mechanisms underlying PDM.
Application of MXene in Electrochemical Sensors: A Review
Authors: Wu Xinzhao , Ma Pinyi , Sun Ying , Du Fangxin , Song Daqian , Xu Guobao
Published: May 2021

Electroanalysis has obtained considerable progress over the past few years, especially in the field of electrochemical sensors. Broadly speaking, electrochemical sensors include not only conventional electrochemical biosensors or non‐biosensors, but also emerging electrochemiluminescence (ECL) sensors and photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensors which are both combined with optical methods. In addition, various electrochemical sensing devices have been developed for practical purposes, such as multiplexed simultaneous detection of disease‐related biomarkers and non‐invasive body fluid monitoring. For the further performance improvement of electrochemical sensors, material is crucial. Recent years, a kind of two‐dimensional (2D) nanomaterial MXene containing transition metal carbides, nitrides and carbonitrides, with unique structural, mechanical, electronic, optical, and thermal properties, have attracted a lot of attention form analytical chemists, and widely applied in electrochemical sensors. Here, we reviewed electrochemical sensors based on MXene from Nov. 2014 (when the first work about electrochemical sensor based on MXene published) to Mar. 2021, dividing them into different types as electrochemical biosensors, electrochemical non‐biosensors, electrochemiluminescence sensors, photoelectrochemical sensors and flexible sensors. We believe this review will be of help to those who want to design or develop electrochemical sensors based on MXene, hoping new inspirations could be sparked.
Voltammetric Determination of Trace Heavy Metals by Sequential‐injection Analysis at Plastic Fluidic Chips with Integrated Carbon Fiber‐based Electrodes
Authors: Partheni Vrysiida , Svarnias Konstantinos , Economou Anastasios , Kokkinos Christos , Fielden Peter R. , Baldock Sara J. , Goddard Nicholas J.
Published: May 2021

This work describes a sequential injection analysis (SIA) method for on‐line strippping voltammetric determination of Pb(II), Cd(II) and Zn(II) using an injection‐moulded electrochemical fluidic chip consisting of 3 conductive carbon fiber‐loaded polymer electrodes embedded in a plastic fluidic holder. The sample containing the target metals and a solution containing Bi(III) were aspirated in the holding coil of the SIA manifold. Then, the flow was reversed and the two solutions were directed to the fluidic cell through a mixing coil which induced mixing of the two zones. Upon reaching the cell, simultaneous reduction of the target metals and Bi(III) occurred resulting in the formation of a metal‐Bi alloy on the working electrode. Finally, the accumulated metals were stripped off the bismuth‐film electrode via a positive potential scan and the oxidation current was recorded. The experimental variables (concentration of the bismuth plating solution, deposition potential, sample volume, stripping mode) were investigated and the potential interferences were assessed. The limits of quantification were 2.8 μg L−1 for Pb(II), 3.6 μg L−1 for Cd(II) and 4.2 μg L−1 for Zn(II) and the the within‐chip and between‐chip % relative standard deviations were ≤6.3 % and ≤14 %, respectively. Finally, the sensor was applied to the determination of trace metals in a fish food sample.
Elucidating the effects of silicon carbide sludge and waste glass fiber on the characteristics of porous eco‐fireproof materials
Authors: Lo Kang‐Wei , Lin Kae‐Long , Cheng Ta‐Wui , Lin Ya‐Wen
Published: May 2021

This study used silicon carbide sludge (SCS) and waste glass fiber (WGF) to prepare SCS/WGF porous (SWP) eco‐fireproof materials by a hydrogen peroxide foaming agent. The results showed that the compressive strength of samples that were cured for 1 day and had an SCS replacement level of 10% and added amounts of WGF of 0.5% and 2.0% were 0.32 and 0.46 MPa, respectively. Additionally, it was observed that the stress–strain curves were relatively extended. WGF could improve the geopolymeric matrix of the composites in terms of formation and/or redistribution of cracks by bridging cracks and perforations within the matrix. When the added amounts of WGF were 0.5% and 2.0%, the reverse‐side temperatures of the samples were 238 and 262°C, respectively, which showed that adding an appropriate amount of WGF could effectively reduce the reverse‐side temperature of SWP eco‐fireproof materials. The results displayed the beneficial influence of SCS and WGF in improving bulking density, compressive strength, and flexural strength and in reducing porosity and thermal conductivity. Therefore, the results showed that SWP eco‐fireproof materials reinforced using SCS and WGF have potential as building materials.
Bald eagle search optimization on dual fueled reactivity controlled combustion ignition based engine characteristics by altering low reactive fuels
Authors: Gokul Karthik Arunachalam , Saravanakumar Rajagopalan , Vijayakumar Palanivel
Published: May 2021

In conventional diesel engines, the reactivity controlled combustion ignition (RCCI) systems find to be offer better emission and engine performances. The main aim of this work is to study and enhance the emission, combustion, and performance characteristics of the RCCI based diesel engine. In the present work, we compare and optimize the characteristics of the diesel engines when using methane added hydrogen and methanol fuels as low reactive fuels (LRF). The diesel and dimethyl ether added biodiesel (spirulina microalgae) are used as high reactivity fuels (HRF) with six different proportion rates. In this, initially, the experimental results are investigated by using methanol as LRF with HRF fuel, and better blend proportion is optimized by using bald eagle search optimization (BESO) performed in the Matlab platform. Then, the methane content added hydrogen is used as LRF with the optimized HRF fuel combinations. Finally, from both cases, the optimized experimental characteristics are predicted with the help of the Elman recurrent neural network based BESO. In which, the hydrogen gas contributed RCCI engine provide supreme engine characteristics such as 217.6 g/kWh of specific fuel consumption, 38.7% of brake thermal efficiency, 84.45 bar of cylinder pressure, and the CO2 and NOx emissions are 539.2 g/kWh, and 1020 ppm. The result reveals that the proposed predicted results are superiorly validated the experimental outcomes with minimal errors.
Raw material choices and material characterization of the 3rd and 2nd millennium BC pottery from the Petit‐Chasseur necropolis: Insights into the megalith‐erecting society of the Upper Rhône Valley, Switzerland
Authors: Carloni Delia , Šegvić Branimir , Sartori Mario , Zanoni Giovanni , Moscariello Andrea , Besse Marie
Published: May 2021

Owing to its well‐preserved and long‐lasting archaeological record, the necropolis of Petit‐Chasseur in the Upper Rhône Valley (3100–1600 BC) showcases the economic, social, and ideological changes of 3rd and 2nd millennium BC Europe excellently. An in‐depth investigation of pottery artifacts was carried out using multiple spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Nine types of ceramic fabrics were identified based on the variety of temper and natural inclusions; however, the mineralogy and phase chemistry of the ceramic matrix showed the paste to be primarily illitic or muscovitic, irrespective of the inclusion type. Muscovitic clays were likely procured from the fluvioglacial, glaciolacustrine, colluvial, and till sediment abundantly available at higher altitudes of the Upper Rhône Valley, whereas illitic clays were acquired from pedogenized loess horizons or the Rhône River alluvium. Different raw material choices and paste preparation practices suggest distinct ceramic traditions that likely existed in the valley during the 3rd and 2nd millennia BC. This, along with the hypothesized provenance of the raw material, is likely in favor of various prehistoric communities gathering at the megalithic necropolis from close and distant parts of the valley using the Petit‐Chasseur site as a place of assembly.
Entwicklung eines Python‐Skripts zur Festigkeitsreduktion mit numerischen Methoden
Authors: Jürgens Hauke , Henke Sascha
Published: May 2021

Die Anwendung numerischer Methoden beschränkt sich in der Geotechnik derzeit zumeist auf die Prognose des Verformungsverhaltens von Bauwerken im Grenzzustand der Gebrauchstauglichkeit. Der Grenzzustand der Tragfähigkeit wird unter Berücksichtigung numerischer Methoden, z. B. der Finite‐Elemente‐Methode bisher nur in Ansätzen (z. B. bei homogenen Böschungen und kombinierter Pfahl‐Plattengründung) behandelt. In dem vorliegenden Beitrag wird daher die Grundlage für die Anwendung einer ganzheitlichen Methode zur parallelen Festigkeitsreduktion an Strukturelementen und einer Abminderung der Scherparameter des Bodens diskutiert.

In einer ersten Parameterstudie wird ein auf der Programmiersprache Python basierendes Skript zur Reduktion der Scherparameter des Bodens durch einen Abgleich mit anerkannten Methoden zur Berechnung der Standsicherheit von Böschungen verifiziert. Anschließend werden die Anwendungsmöglichkeiten des Python‐Skripts so erweitert, dass in einer zweiten Parameterstudie die Festigkeitsparameter von Strukturelementen innerhalb einer stabilitätsgefährdeten Böschung reduziert werden können. Auf Grundlage dessen erfolgt eine Beurteilung über den wahrscheinlichen ersten Versagensmechanismus (Boden‐ oder Strukturversagen). Zum Abschluss werden die Ergebnisse der beiden Parameterstudien unter Berücksichtigung einer numerischen Nachweisführung in einen kausalen Kontext gebracht und zukünftige Forschungsansätze diskutiert.
Plant parasitic nematodes, substrates or grass species as reasons for poor reestablishment of a sand‐based putting green after winter kill
Authors: Xiao Kemeng , Hesselsøe Karin Juul , Magnusson Christer , Espevig Tatsiana , Pettersen Trond , Aamlid Trygve S.
Published: May 2021

In 2018–2019, establishment problems were encountered, after reseeding creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) on a sand‐based putting green after ice encasement at the NIBIO Turfgrass Research Center, Norway. Seeds germinated, but the seedlings attained a purple color and died in large patches. Replacement of the top 3 cm layer with new sand amended with Sphagnum peat or garden compost did not solve the problem. To explain this phenomenon, we (1) analyzed the original substrate for nematodes in patches with and without reestablishment failure; and (2) conducted a factorial pot trial with creeping bentgrass and Chewings fescue (Festuca rubra ssp. commutata) seeded on different substrates, some of them in layers, and with and without phosphorus (P) fertilization. The nematode counts showed six times more stubby‐root nematodes and two times more spiral nematodes and needle nematodes in the patches with dead seedlings than in the patches with healthy seedings. In the pot trial, the fastest and slowest reestablishment was observed with new sand amended with garden compost and in the two treatments that included the original substrate, respectively. Replacement of the top 3 cm of the old substrate with new garden compost resulted in stagnation of bentgrass seedlings from four weeks after seeding, while fescue seedlings were unaffected. We conclude that the failure to reestablish creeping bentgrass was primarily due to nematodes, which are likely to be more critical for seedlings than for established turf. The green was later reestablished successfully with a 100 % red fescue seed blend.
Electrical therapies act on the Ca2+/CaM signaling pathway to enhance bone regeneration with bioactive glass [S53P4] and allogeneic grafts
Authors: Bagne Leonardo , Oliveira Maraiara A. , Pereira Amanda T. , Caetano Guilherme F. , Oliveira Camila A. , Aro Andréa A. , Chiarotto Gabriela B. , Santos Glaucia M. T. , Mendonça Fernanda A. S. , Santamaria‐Jr Milton
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to investigate the application of low‐intensity electrostimulation (ES) and electromagnetic stimulation (EM) associated with bioactive glass (BG) or allogeneic grafts (BB) in bone regeneration. A cell viability test on osteoblasts (UMR‐106) was performed in the presence of BB and BG grafts associated with ES (10 μA/5 min) and EM (500 Hz/2 min). Critical defects (25 mm2) in calvaria were generated in male Wistar rats, and bone regeneration was evaluated on the 30th, 60th, and 120th days after surgery. Cell proliferation increased with the application of ES in both grafts and after EM with BG. Bone remodeling was more effective using the allogeneic graft in both therapies, with increased angiogenesis, osteoblast proliferation, and OPN expression in the BB + EM group. A higher number of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, and an increase in bone sialoprotein, Runx‐2, and Opn gene expression were found in the BB + ES group. The BG graft associated with EM therapy had an increased proliferation of osteoblasts and increased expression of Runx‐2 and Opn. Groups that had BG and ES therapy had increased numbers of osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and increased OPN expression. The expression of voltage‐gated calcium channels increased in groups with ES, while calmodulin expression increased in therapies without grafting. ES and EM therapies favored the repair of bone defects upon grafting by improving angiogenesis, osteogenic gene expression, and tissue reorganization. Despite activating different pathways, both therapies increased the intracellular concentrations of calmodulin, leading to cell proliferation and bone regeneration.
Image repair during a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission investigation
Authors: Demaline Christopher J.
Published: May 2021

This paper examines management's image repair strategies present in disclosures noting a firm's involvement in an SEC investigation. This empirical analysis employs a systematic content analysis of managements' 10‐K disclosures released from 2010 through 2019. The sample is drawn from firms identified in SEC accounting and auditing enforcement releases. This research suggests that management's disclosure concerning an SEC investigation commonly focuses on adding positive information to the disclosure (bolstering) and discussing plans to solve the problem. Managers commonly employ multiple image repair tactics within the same 10‐K. These findings have key implications for financial reporting regulators and accounting standards setters concerned with understanding how managers may manipulate disclosures. Investors may also be interested in understanding how company managers attempt to restore the firm's reputation when the firm is undergoing regulatory scrutiny. Further, the findings of this study enhance the knowledge of corporate image restoration strategy. This paper is the first to focus on managements’ use of image repair disclosure strategies when a securities regulator is investigating the firm.
Hybrid localized graph kernel for machine learning energy‐related properties of molecules and solids
Authors: Casier Bastien , Chagas da Silva Mauricio , Badawi Michael , Pascale Fabien , Bučko Tomáš , Lebègue Sébastien , Rocca Dario
Published: May 2021

Nowadays, the coupling of electronic structure and machine learning techniques serves as a powerful tool to predict chemical and physical properties of a broad range of systems. With the aim of improving the accuracy of predictions, a large number of representations for molecules and solids for machine learning applications has been developed. In this work we propose a novel descriptor based on the notion of molecular graph. While graphs are largely employed in classification problems in cheminformatics or bioinformatics, they are not often used in regression problem, especially of energy‐related properties. Our method is based on a local decomposition of atomic environments and on the hybridization of two kernel functions: a graph kernel contribution that describes the chemical pattern and a Coulomb label contribution that encodes finer details of the local geometry. The accuracy of this new kernel method in energy predictions of molecular and condensed phase systems is demonstrated by considering the popular QM7 and BA10 datasets. These examples show that the hybrid localized graph kernel outperforms traditional approaches such as, for example, the smooth overlap of atomic positions and the Coulomb matrices.
Solar activity modulates the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation‐induced precipitation anomalies over southern China in early spring
Authors: Ma Hedi , Wang Ruili , Lai Anwei , Li Xing , Wang Feiyang , Zhou Zhimin , Li Xiao
Published: May 2021

The present study identifies an evident solar cycle modulation upon the spatial pattern of the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) impact on the southern China precipitation in early spring (February–March). During high/low solar activity (HS/LS) years, the significant positive correlation between the wintertime Niño 3.4 index and the precipitation in the following early spring mainly locates at the southeastern China/Yangtze River Valley (SEC/YRV). Our analysis also suggests that the precipitation anomalies show asymmetries between ENSO warm and cold events under both solar phases. In HS years, the ENSO warm events‐related rainfall anomalies over the southern China are weak, but during the ENSO cold events significant dry anomalies appear at the SEC region. In LS years, significant wet anomalies over the YRV region are found during the ENSO warm events, whilst the rainfall anomalies are insignificant for the ENSO cold events. These modulations on precipitation are mediated by the changes in the ENSO‐associated anomalous western North Pacific anticyclone/cyclone, which may be attributed to the solar modulations on the ENSO‐associated sea surface temperature anomalies. Our results highlight that the level of solar activity should be taken into account when ENSO is used as a predictor for the precipitation over East Asia. [Correction added on 18 June 2021, after first online publication: The text for the abstract and graphical abstract were interchanged in the original‐published article. This updated version rectifies the error.]