bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cattle grazing in CRP grasslands during the nesting season: effects on avian abundance and diversity
Authors: Wilson Benjamin S. , Jensen William E. , Houseman Gregory R. , Jameson Mary Liz , Reichenborn Molly M. , Watson D. Fraser , Morphew Alex R. , Kjaer Esben L.
Published: January 2022

The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is a primary tool for restoring grassland in the United States, in part as wildlife habitat, which has benefited declining grassland bird populations. Among potential mid‐contract management practices used to maintain early‐successional CRP grasslands, cattle grazing had been prohibited and is currently disincentivized during the primary nesting season for birds (much of the growing season), despite the important role that large herbivores historically played in structuring grassland ecosystems. Conservative grazing of CRP grasslands could increase spatial heterogeneity in vegetation structure and plant diversity, potentially supporting higher densities of some grassland bird species and higher bird diversity. Our objective was to determine the effect of experimental cattle grazing on species‐specific relative abundance and occupancy, species diversity, and community dissimilarity of grassland birds on CRP grasslands across the longitudinal extent of Kansas, USA (a 63.5‐cm precipitation gradient) during the 2017–2019 avian breeding seasons. Fifty‐three of 108 fields were grazed by cattle during the growing seasons of 2017 and 2018 and all fields were rested from grazing in 2019. For all analyses, we examined separate model sets for semiarid western versus more mesic eastern Kansas. Using data from line transect surveys, we modeled relative abundances of 5 songbird species: grasshopper sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum), dickcissel (Spiza americana), eastern meadowlark (Sturnella magna), western meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta), and brown‐headed cowbird (Molothrus ater). Grazing had delayed yet positive effects on abundances of grasshopper sparrow in western Kansas, and eastern meadowlark in eastern Kansas, but negative effects on dickcissel abundance in western Kansas and especially on burned fields in eastern Kansas. Somewhat counterintuitively, brown‐headed cowbirds in western Kansas were more abundant on ungrazed versus grazed fields in the years after grazing began. In addition, we modeled multi‐season occupancy of 3 gamebird species (ring‐necked pheasant [Phasianus colcicus], northern bobwhite [Colinus virginianus], mourning dove [Zenaida macroura]) and Henslow's sparrow (Centronyx henslowii); grazing did not affect occupancy of these species. In eastern Kansas, species diversity was highest in grazed, unburned fields. In western Kansas, bird communities in grazed and ungrazed fields were dissimilar, as determined from multivariate analysis. Though regionally variable, conservative stocking of cattle on CRP grasslands during the nesting season as a mid‐contract management tool might increase bird species diversity by restructuring habitat that accommodates a greater variety of species and decreasing abundances of species associated with taller, denser stands of vegetation.
Alginate/Gelatin‐Based Hydrogel with Soy Protein/Peptide Powder for 3D Printing Tissue‐Engineering Scaffolds to Promote Angiogenesis
Authors: Liu Yakui , Hu Qingxi , Dong Wenpei , Liu Suihong , Zhang Haiguang , Gu Yan
Published: January 2022

In recent years, 3D bioprinting has attracted broad research interest in biomedical engineering and clinical applications. However, there are two issues need to be solved urgently at present, the development of ink is the first pressing thing for 3D printing tissue engineering scaffold, other thing is the promotion of angiogenesis in the scaffold. Therefore, a gelatin/sodium alginate‐based hydrogel with protein‐rich is developed here, which is prepared by gelatin, sodium alginate, and soy protein/soy peptide powder. The prepared inks exhibit excellent shear‐thinning behavior, which contribute to extrusion‐based printing; also shown good crosslinking ability by calcium chloride. The macroporous composite scaffolds are printed by 3D printing using the developed ink and the physicochemical properties of the scaffolds are evaluated. Moreover, the cytocompatibility of printed scaffold is characterized by using human umbilical vein epidermal cells, results show that the scaffolds with soy protein and soy peptide powder can promote cell attach, spread, migration, and proliferation. The further research of chicken embryo allantoic membrane assay and animal experiment are carried, and results present that the scaffold can promote the growth of neo‐vessels in the scaffold, which means the developed ink with soy protein and soy peptide powder has great potential for angiogenesis.
Sequential topologies and Dedekind finite sets
Authors: Zapletal Jindřich
Published: January 2022

It is consistent with set theory that the Euclidean topology on is not sequential, yet every infinite set of reals contains a countably infinite subset. This answers a question of Gutierres.
Cronyism and corruption in India: A game theoretic analysis
Authors: Chaudhuri Sarbajit , Dastidar Krishnendu Ghosh , Mahata Sushobhan
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we analyze some aspects of cronyism and corruption in India. We develop a three‐stage game‐theoretic model where the ruling political party and a capitalist interact with each other. The ruling party, in return of a donation from the capitalist, sets a policy that favors the latter. Our model leads to some interesting results of which the most striking is that only the political party gains with increase in cronyism and corruption. The society as a whole suffers (total welfare goes down), and even the capitalist is worse off (profit declines). Despite the decrease in profits, the capitalist finds it worthwhile to take part in the game only because it would have been worse off even further if it had not taken part in the game. We come to the broad conclusion that a strong corrupt political party is necessarily detrimental to all sections of the population.
Soliton solution of high‐order nonlinear Schrödinger equation based on ansatz method
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhang Ling‐Ling , Essel John Fiifi
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we define different ansatz equations to study two classes of high‐order nonlinear Schrödinger equations. The concrete forms of soliton solutions of these two classes of equations are obtained by using this equation. This paper briefly summarizes and explains the method used and applies it to two classes of specific equations. Finally, the concrete form of solutions and the necessary conditions for the existence of solutions are obtained, and pictures are added to assist understanding.
Cauchy problem for a high‐order loaded integro‐differential equation
Authors: Baltaeva Umida , Baltaeva Iroda , Agarwal Praveen
Published: January 2022

In the work was found an explicit formula of a solution of analog of a Cauchy problem for a loaded multidimensional partial differential equation of a higher order.
Selkov glycolytic model with diffusion: Patterns, multistability, and stochastic transitions
Authors: Bashkirtseva Irina , Pankratov Alexander
Published: January 2022

We consider a distributed variant of the Selkov mathematical model of glycolysis with diffusion and stochastic disturbances. The Turing instability zone, in which nonhomogeneous patterns are formed, is determined parametrically. Diversity of waveform spatial structures with different number of peaks is described and studied depending on the diffusion coefficients. The coexistence of various patterns of different waveforms and amplitudes is demonstrated. The quantitative analysis of the pattern formation from the random initial states is carried out using statistics and harmonic coefficients. Multistage noise‐induced transitions between coexisting spatial structures are discussed.
Ground state solutions of a fractional advection–dispersion equation
Authors: Qiao Yan , Chen Fangqi , An Yukun
Published: January 2022

In this paper, a class of fractional Sturm–Liouville advection–dispersion equations with instantaneous and noninstantaneous impulsive boundary conditions is considered. At the beginning, the existence of at least one nontrivial ground state solution is proved by the method of Nehari manifold without the Ambrosetti–Rabinowitz condition. Then, the existence of infinitely many nontrivial weak solutions is obtained by using the genus properties. Finally, an example is given to illustrate the main results obtained in this paper.
A study on the performance evaluation of wavelet decomposition in transient‐based radio frequency fingerprinting of Bluetooth devices
Authors: Almashaqbeh Hemam , Dalveren Yaser , Kara Ali
Published: January 2022

Radio frequency fingerprinting (RFF) is used as a physical‐layer security method to provide security in wireless networks. Basically, it exploits the distinctive features (fingerprints) extracted from the physical waveforms emitted from radio devices in the network. One of the major challenges in RFF is to create robust features forming the fingerprints of radio devices. Here, dual‐tree complex wavelet transform (DT‐CWT) provides an accurate way of extracting those robust features. However, its performance on the RFF of Bluetooth transients which fall into narrowband signaling has not been reported yet. Therefore, this study examines the performance of DT‐CWT features on the use of transient‐based RFF of Bluetooth devices. Initially, experimentally collected Bluetooth transients from different smartphones are decomposed by DT‐CWT. Then, the characteristics and statistics of the wavelet domain signal are exploited to create robust features. Next, the support vector machine (SVM) is used to classify the smartphones. The classification accuracy is demonstrated by varying channel signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and the size of transient duration. Results show that reasonable accuracy can be achieved (lower bound of 88%) even with short transient duration (1024 samples) at low SNRs (0–5 dB).
FEM×DEM multi‐scale model for cemented granular materials: Inter‐ and intra‐granular cracking induced strain localisation
Authors: Nguyen Trung‐Kien , Desrues Jacques , Vo Thanh‐Trung , Combe Gaël
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we present a multi‐scale model that combines the finite element method (FEM) and the discrete element method (DEM) to study the behaviour of cemented granular materials (CGM) at both the sample (macroscopic) and particle (microscopic) scales, taking into account inter‐ and intra‐granular cracking. At the microscopic scale, the material is made up of Volume Elements (VE) composed of particles. Their mechanical behaviour is modelled by the DEM. In the VEs, we find circular grains (single particles) and meso‐grains; the meso‐grains being made up of clusters of particles linked by strong cohesive bonds. All particles interact via normal/tangential contact and rolling resistance laws with cohesive bonds. At the macroscopic scale, the sample is modelled using the FEM. A VE is assigned to each Gauss point of the mesh; the mechanical response of the VE is used to numerically derive the constitutive response of the material to the strain increment exerted at each point. In the models reported in this paper, localised failures in shear band mode are observed at the macroscopic scale. By performing a microscopic analysis, the results show that the occurrence and development of shear bands give rise locally to a strong evolution of microscopic characteristics such as void ratio, number of contacts (total and debonding contacts), and remarkably by inter‐ and intra‐granular cracking in the case of meso‐grains. Furthermore, the stress and strain tensors non‐coaxiality is clearly demonstrated inside the shear band, but almost negligible outside.
Pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated with blinatumomab in a real‐world setting: Results from the NEUF study
Authors: Locatelli Franco , Maschan Alexey , Boissel Nicolas , Strocchio Luisa , Alam Naufil , Pezzani Isabella , Brescianini Alessandra , Kreuzbauer Georg , Baruchel Andre
Published: January 2022

Background

Prior to regulatory approval of blinatumomab in pediatric patients with relapsed/refractory Philadelphia chromosome‐negative B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (R/R Ph− BCP‐ALL), blinatumomab was made available via an expanded access program (EAP).

Procedure

This retrospective observational study included patients receiving blinatumomab in the EAP between January 1, 2014 and June 30, 2017 who were followed until death, entry into a clinical trial, end of follow‐up, or end of the study period (December 31, 2017), whichever occurred first.

Results

Among 113 children enrolled, 72 were diagnosed with R/R Ph− BCP‐ALL and 41 were minimal residual disease positive (MRD+, either Ph− or Ph+). In the R/R group, 38 (53%) patients achieved hematological response within two cycles. Of these, 19 (50%) proceeded to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) without bridging myelosuppressive therapy. Of 36 patients in the R/R group evaluable for MRD, 30 (83%) had an MRD response. In the R/R group, median relapse‐free survival was 5.4 months and median overall survival (OS) was 8.2 months. Of 36 patients in the MRD+ group who were evaluable for MRD after two cycles, 27 (75%) had an MRD response. Overall, 24 (59%) of the MRD+ patients proceeded to HSCT without other bridging therapy. Median disease‐free survival was 13.6 months; median OS was not reached.

Conclusions

In this real‐world pediatric cohort, blinatumomab was effective within two cycles. Over half of patients with R/R Ph− BCP‐ALL achieved hematological response and most achieved MRD response in the MRD+ group, confirming the efficacy of blinatumomab in pediatric trials.
Facile synthesis of tough metallosupramolecular hydrogels by using phosphates as temporary ligands of ferric ions to avoid inhibition of polymerization
Authors: Fang Lingtao , Hu Jian , Zhang Chuan Wei , Wei Jialun , Yu Hai Chao , Zheng Si Yu , Wu Zi Liang , Zheng Qiang
Published: January 2022

Forming carboxyl‐Fe3+ coordination bonds as physical crosslinks is an effective strategy to develop tough hydrogels. Considering the inhibition of ferric ions on free‐radical polymerization, these coordination bonds cannot be formed during the reaction, and a soaking process of preformed hydrogels is usually required for mechanical enhancement, resulting in uncontrollable gradient structure, long preparation time, and unnecessary waste of metallic ions. A facile strategy is reported here to prepare tough metallosupramolecular hydrogels by polymerization and in situ formation of coordination bonds with phosphates as the temporal ligands of Fe3+ ions. The phosphate ligands in the precursor solution form coordination complexes with the Fe3+ ions, which avoids the inhibition and ensures the polymerization. After swelling the resultant hydrogel in water, the ligands are substituted by carboxyl groups of the gel matrix due to the variation of local pH. The equilibrated hydrogel with carboxyl‐Fe3+ coordination bonds as the physical crosslinks possesses excellent mechanical properties that can be tuned over a wide range by adjusting the polymer compositions and the concentrations of phosphate ligands and Fe3+ ions. This strategy should be applicable to other systems to enable synthesis of functional hydrogels with Fe3+ ions as the additive toward specific applications in engineering and biomedical fields.
BowTie analysis of rooftop grid‐connected photovoltaic systems
Authors: Mohd Nizam Ong Nur Aliah Fatin , Mohd Tohir Mohd Zahirasri , Mutlak Mays Mahmood , Sadiq Muhammad Adnan , Omar Rozita , Md Said Mohamad Syazarudin
Published: January 2022

With the rapid growth of the worldwide photovoltaic (PV) installation, the number of fire incidents involving PV systems also shows an increasing trend. Several studies revealed that installing PV systems on the rooftop has introduced an additional fire risk to the building. Therefore, risk assessment is required to identify the possible cause of fire initiation involving PV systems and subsequently provide the solar industry with fire risk information regarding PV faults. A BowTie analysis of rooftop grid‐connected PV systems was conducted, where initiation of ignition was determined as the hazard and PV fires as the loss event. Four threats in the BowTie analysis were identified using fault tree analysis, that is, arc fault, ground fault, hotspot effect at PV modules, and overheating. Arc fault contributes the most to PV fire incidents, while poor installation of PV systems was found to be the primary underlying cause of all PV fault scenarios. The main factor is due to lack of fire safety knowledge and negligence behavior of the installers. The consequences of PV fires in the BowTie diagram were investigated from the event tree analysis. Twelve possible outcomes were identified and regrouped to five consequences, that is, respiratory poisons, electrical shock, fall from heights, asset damage, and fire propagation. The evaluation of the consequences of PV fire shows that electrical shock poses a very high risk to the surrounding people, including firefighters. Additional measures are proposed to reduce the impact of electric shock.
Global drivers of herbicide‐resistant weed richness in major cereal crops worldwide
Authors: Hulme Philip E
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

The number of herbicide‐resistant weeds differs across the globe but the reasons for this variation are poorly understood. Taking a macroecological approach, the role of six drivers of herbicide resistance in a country was examined for barley, maize, rice and wheat crops worldwide. Drivers captured agronomic measures (crop harvested area, herbicide and fertilizer input) as well as sources of sampling bias that result in under‐reporting of herbicide resistance (human population density, research intensity and time since the first record of resistance).

RESULTS

Depending on the crop, best subset regression models explained between 60% and 80% of the variation in herbicide‐resistant weeds recorded in countries worldwide. Global prevalence of herbicide‐resistant weeds is likely underestimated, especially in countries with limited capability in herbicide research. Numbers of resistant weeds worldwide will continue to increase. Agricultural intensification, captured by fertilizer and herbicide input, as well as further expansion of crop harvested area are primary drivers of future herbicide‐resistant weeds.

CONCLUSION

Because the evolution of herbicide resistance lags behind the selection pressures imposed by fertilizer and herbicide inputs, several countries (e.g. Brazil, South Africa, Uruguay) appear to exhibit a ‘herbicide resistance debt’ in which current agronomic conditions have set the scene for higher numbers of herbicide‐resistant weeds than currently observed. Future agricultural expansion will lead to more herbicide‐resistant weeds, especially in developing countries as their economies grow and where herbicide resistance is currently under‐reported. A global strategy for increasing national capability in herbicide resistance research is needed. © 2022 The Author. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Doping‐Dependent Phase Fractions in Hydrothermally Synthesized Mn‐Doped CuFeO2
Authors: Igbinehi Nelson , Mahmoud Abdelfattah , Fenske Daniela , Klobes Benedikt
Published: January 2022

Using a simple hydrothermal method, delafossite materials are produced and investigated by means of X‐ray diffraction, ultraviolet–visible reflectance measurements, and electron microscopy. Up to nominally , the synthesis yields delafossite material, which generally consists of both the 2H and R3 phases without any impurities. Lattice parameters and the indirect optical bandgap of delafossite close to about 1.3 eV decrease upon increasing Mn content, which confirms the successful doping with Mn up to an actual Mn content of . The 2H phase fraction shows a pronounced and peaked dependence on Mn content with a maximum 2H mass fraction of about 27% at nominally , whereas the hexagonal particle morphology and the platelet size of about 500 nm as measured by both scanning and transmission electron microscopy are independent of the latter.
Enhanced Magnetorheological Behavior of a Carbonyl‐Iron‐Based Fluid via Addition of Fe3O4/Halloysite‐Nanotube Composite Particles
Authors: Xu Miao , Zhang Kaili , Yang Yanli , Cheng Tiexin , Zhou Guangdong
Published: January 2022

Composite additives for enhancing the yield stress, sedimentation stability, and long‐term reversibility of bidisperse magnetorheological fluids (MRFs) are reported herein. The design and introduction of magnetic Fe3O4/halloysite‐nanotube (HNT) composite additives to carbonyl‐iron (CI)‐based MRFs are described, and the effects of Fe3O4/HNT addition on the MRF behavior are elucidated. The rheological, viscoelastic, and cyclic reversibility analyses of the bidisperse Fe3O4/HNT‐CI MRFs indicate that the MR performance increases and subsequently decreases with the increasing content of the Fe3O4/HNTs. The MRF containing 1.0 wt% Fe3O4/HNTs shows optimal MR properties and long‐term reversibility. Under a magnetic field, the 1.0 wt% Fe3O4/HNTs are embedded in the interstices of the magnetic chains, enhancing the magnetic dipole–dipole interactions between the particles, strengthening the rigidity of the magnetic chains, and increasing the yield stress of the MRF. The Fe3O4/HNTs are adsorbed on the surfaces of the CI particles in the absence of a magnetic field, occupying the free space between the CI particles and forming support structures, which prevents aggregation and improves sedimentation stability. Moreover, the designed MRFs respond quickly to magnetic field switching and exhibit enhanced long‐term reversibility.
Event‐based finite‐time H∞ filtering of discrete‐time singular jump network systems
Authors: Zhang Yingqi , Shi Peng , Basin Michael V.
Published: January 2022

This article presents the analysis and design problems of event‐based (EB) finite‐time (FT) filtering for discrete‐time singular Markov jump network systems (SMNSs) based on separation of matrix inequality variables. According to the EB method, an SMNS model of network‐induced delay is introduced. Sufficient conditions of singular stochastic FT boundedness are then obtained for the augmented SMNS model by applying a stochastic Lyapunov functional and introducing slack matrix variables. In addition, using separation schemes for decoupling matrix inequality variables, the EBFT filter gain matrices and triggered ones are co‐designed to ensure that the augmented SMNSs are singularly stochastic FT bounded with a prescribed performance index. Finally, a practical DC test example is presented to show effectiveness of the proposed approach.
The dilution effect in a freshwater mutualism: Impacts of introduced host species on native symbionts
Authors: Creed Robert P. , Bailey Gretchen L. , Skelton James , Brown Bryan L.
Published: January 2022

The dilution effect was originally proposed to describe the negative effect of increased host diversity on parasite or pathogen abundance; with greater host diversity, parasite or pathogen levels per host are predicted to be lower due to a higher probability of dispersing parasites or pathogens encountering noncompetent hosts. Dilution effects could occur in many mutualisms if dispersing symbionts encounter hosts that vary in their competence. Introduced, non‐native hosts can change the community competence of a local group of host species. Crayfish introductions are occurring world‐wide and these introductions are likely disrupting native crayfish‐symbiont systems. Branchiobdellidan symbionts declined on native Cambarus crayfish co‐occurring with non‐native Faxonius crayfish in the New River watershed, USA. We performed an experiment investigating the effect of host density (1 vs. 2 native hosts) and host diversity (1 native host and 1 introduced host) on branchiobdellidan abundance. The introduced Faxonius cristavarius is a noncompetent host for these worms. Six C. ingens were stocked on a Cambarus chasmodactylus in each treatment and worm numbers were followed over 34 days. Worm numbers decreased over time on C. chasmodactylus alone and in the treatment in which a C. chasmodactylus was paired with an F. cristavarius. Worm numbers remained highest in the 2 C. chasmodactylus treatment. There was no effect of host diversity on worm reproduction. Crayfish invasions may have negative effects on mutualistic symbionts depending on the competence of introduced hosts. Loss of native symbionts is one of the potential hidden, negative effects of invasions on native freshwater diversity.
Polyphosphate‐Grafted Fe3O4 Nanomagnets for the Removal of Trivalent Radionuclides from Acidic Nuclear Waste Solution
Authors: Pahan Sumit , Dutta Bijaideep , Panja Surajit , Barick Kanhu Charan , Banerjee Dayamay , Vincent Tessy , Sugilal Gopalakrishnan , Manohar Smitha , Prakash Kaushik Chetan
Published: January 2022

The removal of radionuclides from nuclear waste solution is one of the biggest environmental challenges in today's world. In this aspect, polyphosphate grafted Fe3O4 nanomagnets (PPNMs) were investigated for its efficiency in removal of trivalent radionuclides from acidic nuclear waste solution. Various characterization techniques like XRD, FTIR, TEM and DLS were used to characterize these PPNMs, which showed successful formation of single phase, polyphosphate functionalized aqueous stable Fe3O4 nanostructure with average size ∼10 nm. The kinetics of sorption for Am(III) and Eu(III) by the PPNMs was found to be very fast with equilibrium being attained within ∼5 min. The sorption of both the radionuclides was following pseudo second order kinetic model. With increasing pH of the solution, the sorption efficiency of PPNMs for both the radionuclides was found to increase, whereas it decreased with increasing ionic strength of the medium. These observations clearly suggested that the sorption process proceeds through electrostatic interaction between the nanomagnets and trivalent radionuclides. Moreover, the PPNMs retained their sorption efficiency for at least 10 successive cycles when desorbed with 0.2 M HNO3. Thus, these magnetic nanosorbents can be used as highly effective, separable and reusable materials for removal of trivalent radionuclides from acidic nuclear waste solution.
Recent Advances on Tuning the Interlayer Coupling and Properties in van der Waals Heterostructures
Authors: Wu Xin , Chen Xiyue , Yang Ruxue , Zhan Jianbin , Ren Yingzhi , Li Kun
Published: January 2022

2D van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures are receiving increasing research attention due to the theoretically amazing properties and unprecedented application potential. However, the as‐synthesized heterostructures are generally underperforming due to the weak interlayer coupling, which inspires the researchers to find ways to modulate the interlayer coupling and properties, realizing the tailored performance for actual applications. There have been a lot of publications regarding the controllable regulation of the structures and properties of 2D vdW heterostructures in the past few years, while a review work summarizing the current advances is not yet available, though it is significant. This paper conducts a state‐of‐the‐art review regarding the current research progress of performance modulation of vdW heterostructures by different techniques. First, the general synthesis methods of vdW heterostructures are summarized. Then, different performance modulation techniques, that is, mechanical‐based, external fields‐assisted, and particle beam irradiation‐based methods, are discussed and compared in detail. Some of the newly proposed concepts are described. Thereafter, applications of vdW heterostructures with tailored properties are reviewed for the application prospects of the topic around this area. Moreover, the future research challenges and prospects are discussed, aiming at triggering more research interest and device applications around this topic.
Better Scrum through Essence
Authors: Jacobson Ivar , Sutherland Jeff , Kerr Brian , Buhnova Barbora
Published: January 2022

We live at an exciting time where software has become a dominant aspect of our everyday life. Although software provides opportunities for improving various aspects of our society, it also presents many challenges. One of them is development, deployment, and sustaining of high quality software on a broad scale. While agile methods (Scrum being one of the most prominent examples) ease the process, their popularity deteriorates the clarity and simplicity they were once meant to bring into software development. This article explores the synergy of Scrum and Essence, a domain model of software engineering processes, intending to become a common ground for software development methods, bringing clarity into the composition of methods from individual practices. This short communication motivates the interplay of Scrum and Essence, being accompanied with a set of videotutorials and 21 Scrum Essential cards to further guide more effective team's way of working.
Postsynthetic Modification of Metal−Organic Frameworks for Photocatalytic Applications
Authors: Lin Huaxing , Xu You , Wang Bing , Li Dong-Sheng , Zhou Tianhua , Zhang Jian
Published: January 2022

Metal−organic frameworks (MOFs) are a new class of porous, crystalline materials with promising applications in the fields of energy and environment. Postsynthetic modification (PSM) approaches are shown to be powerful techniques to introduce new functionalities to parent frameworks. PSM methods to functionalize MOFs can be divided into four main categories based on their unique structures: covalent modification, coordinative transformation, encapsulation, and hybridization with other compounds. These approaches are proven to be an important tool for increasing structural stability and introducing desired properties, which expand the applications of MOFs. This review focuses on the current advancements of four PSM methods to construct functionalized MOFs for photocatalytic applications in water splitting, CO2 reduction, organic transformation, and degradation of water pollutants. The challenge and perspectives on PSM of MOFs for photocatalysis are also discussed.
In vitro antifungal activity of cold atmospheric microwave plasma and synergistic activity against Malassezia pachydermatis when combined with chlorhexidine gluconate
Authors: Lee Tae‐Hyun , Hyun Jae‐Eun , Kang Yeong‐Hun , Baek Seung‐Joon , Hwang Cheol‐Yong
Published: January 2022

Background

The antifungal efficacy of cold atmospheric microwave plasma (CAMP) against Malassezia pachydermatis has not been to be evaluated.

Objective

To examine the antifungal effects of CAMP against M. pachydermatis and its synergistic effects with chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX).

Methods

A M. pachydermatis isolate was collected from a dog with otitis externa and Malassezia dermatitis at the Seoul National University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. The antifungal effect was determined by applying CAMP to a M. pachydermatis isolate that was incubated for 3 days at 37°C. After 1, 2, 3 and 5 min of application, the efficacy of the plasma treatment was determined according to the number of colony forming units (CFUs). A mixture consisting of inoculum and CHX was applied to evaluate the synergistic effect of the plasma treatment in the same way.

Results

The application of CAMP showed significant antifungal effects against M. pachydermatis. The antifungal effect of CAMP was enhanced by an increased exposure time and output power. The application of CAMP with 0.02% and 0.2% CHX resulted in lower survival rates against M. pachydermatis when compared with its sole application at 1 or 2 min.

Conclusions

The study findings demonstrate that CAMP has a potential as a new antifungal option for M. pachydermatis and has synergistic antifungal effects with CHX in vitro. Clinical applications for CAMP are necessary to assess the antifungal efficacy for patients.
A suspected intermediate syndrome and intussusception following propoxur toxicity in a dog
Authors: Menchetti Marika , Galli Greta , Bravaccini Beatrice , Zappa Giovanni , Rocchi Paola
Published: January 2022

An 8‐month‐old, mixed breed dog was referred because of vomiting, generalised muscle tremors and miosis. A few hours before the presentation, the owners saw the dog eating something during the daily walk. The dog was initially treated with fluids, atropine, dexmedetomidine, maropitant and midazolam. Complete blood exams showed a marked reduction of cholinesterase activity. Blood toxicology tests revealed the presence of propoxur. Twenty‐four hours after the presentation, the dog developed a small intestinal intussusception. After an initial improvement, the dog developed weakness and respiratory difficulties. The neurological examination showed obtundation, severe generalised muscle weakness of neck and limbs, reduced flexor reflexes in the four limbs and a short and shallow respiratory pattern, suggesting suspected intermediate syndrome. The dog's neurologic conditions progressively improved, and he was discharged 5 days after presentation with only mild impairment of the neck strength.
An opioid‐free anaesthesia (OFA) technique for dorsal laminectomy in a dog subsequent to severe bradycardia and hypothermia after previous subcutaneous methadone administration
Authors: Libera Natalia , McFadzean William
Published: January 2022

A 6‐year‐old, male, crossbreed dog presented for investigation and treatment of neck and thoracic limb pain. Frequent and repeated subcutaneous methadone administration resulted in severe side effects, including bradycardia, hypothermia and profound sedation. Based on the dog's previously evasive behaviour, suspected cervical myelopathy and technical impracticality, the decision was made not to antagonise opioid effects. Supportive treatment was given until general anaesthesia for diagnostic imaging, and surgery was deemed appropriate. In veterinary medicine, opioids are considered the gold‐standard analgesics; therefore, perioperative analgesia can be challenging when previous opioid use in a patient caused side effects. This case report presents an opioid‐free anaesthetic technique for magnetic resonance imaging and dorsal laminectomy in a dog. As a part of a balanced and multimodal approach, ketamine, dexmedetomidine, paracetamol, gabapentin, lidocaine and bupivacaine were included in the anaesthetic protocol; with meloxicam discontinued before surgery due to repeated episodes of vomiting and regurgitation.
Severe thrombocytopenia due to subinvolution of placental sites in a Maltese terrier
Authors: Crosby Jilli , Plested Mark , Hardas Alexandros , Olivares Gerard
Published: January 2022

A 2‐year‐6‐month‐old, primiparous, female, entire Maltese terrier presented 4 weeks after whelping with an acute history of lethargy and vulval haemorrhage. It was found to be anaemic and severely thrombocytopenic, which raised the concern about thrombocytopenia being the primary cause of the profuse haemorrhage. The dog received a packed red blood cell transfusion that resulted in the improvement of the anaemia. The platelet count normalised without a specific intervention. Abdominal ultrasound revealed changes consistent with subinvolution of placental sites. An ovariohysterectomy was performed and the dog recovered uneventfully. This case has shown unusually severe thrombocytopenia secondary to haemorrhage, which should be considered a differential diagnosis for severe thrombocytopenia in dogs.
Quantum de Sitter horizon entropy from quasicanonical bulk, edge, sphere and topological string partition functions
Authors: Anninos Dionysios , Denef Frederik , Law Y. T. Albert , Sun Zimo
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Motivated by the prospect of constraining microscopic models, we calculate the exact one-loop corrected de Sitter entropy (the logarithm of the sphere partition function) for every effective field theory of quantum gravity, with particles in arbitrary spin representations. In doing so, we universally relate the sphere partition function to the quotient of a quasi-canonical bulk and a Euclidean edge partition function, given by integrals of characters encoding the bulk and edge spectrum of the observable universe. Expanding the bulk character splits the bulk (entanglement) entropy into quasinormal mode (quasiqubit) contributions. For 3D higher-spin gravity formulated as an sl(n) Chern-Simons theory, we obtain all-loop exact results. Further to this, we show that the theory has an exponentially large landscape of de Sitter vacua with quantum entropy given by the absolute value squared of a topological string partition function. For generic higher-spin gravity, the formalism succinctly relates dS, AdS± and conformal results. Holography is exhibited in quasi-exact bulk-edge cancelation.
The four-loop $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 SYM Sudakov form factor
Authors: Lee Roman N. , von Manteuffel Andreas , Schabinger Robert M. , Smirnov Alexander V. , Smirnov Vladimir A. , Steinhauser Matthias
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We present the Sudakov form factor in full color $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 supersymmetric Yang- Mills theory to four loop order and provide uniformly transcendental results for the relevant master integrals through to weight eight.
The versatility and paradox of BMP signaling in endothelial cell behaviors and blood vessel function
Authors: Kulikauskas Molly R. , X Shaka , Bautch Victoria L.
Published: January 2022

Blood vessels expand via sprouting angiogenesis, and this process involves numerous endothelial cell behaviors, such as collective migration, proliferation, cell–cell junction rearrangements, and anastomosis and lumen formation. Subsequently, blood vessels remodel to form a hierarchical network that circulates blood and delivers oxygen and nutrients to tissue. During this time, endothelial cells become quiescent and form a barrier between blood and tissues that regulates transport of liquids and solutes. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling regulates both proangiogenic and homeostatic endothelial cell behaviors as blood vessels form and mature. Almost 30 years ago, human pedigrees linked BMP signaling to diseases associated with blood vessel hemorrhage and shunts, and recent work greatly expanded our knowledge of the players and the effects of vascular BMP signaling. Despite these gains, there remain paradoxes and questions, especially with respect to how and where the different and opposing BMP signaling outputs are regulated. This review examines endothelial cell BMP signaling in vitro and in vivo and discusses the paradox of BMP signals that both destabilize and stabilize endothelial cell behaviors.
Naringenin potentiates anti-tumor immunity against oral cancer by inducing lymph node CD169-positive macrophage activation and cytotoxic T cell infiltration
Authors: Kawaguchi Sho , Kawahara Kenta , Fujiwara Yukio , Ohnishi Koji , Pan Cheng , Yano Hiromu , Hirosue Akiyuki , Nagata Masashi , Hirayama Masatoshi , Sakata Junki , Nakashima Hikaru , Arita Hidetaka , Yamana Keisuke , Gohara Shunsuke , Nagao Yuka , Maeshiro Manabu , Iwamoto Asuka , Hirayama Mayumi , Yoshida Ryoji , Komohara Yoshihiro , Nakayama Hideki
Published: January 2022

The CD169+ macrophages in lymph nodes are implicated in cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activation and are associated with improved prognosis in several malignancies. Here, we investigated the significance of CD169+ macrophages in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Further, we tested the anti-tumor effects of naringenin, which has been previously shown to activate CD169+ macrophages, in a murine OSCC model. Immunohistochemical analysis for CD169 and CD8 was performed on lymph node and primary tumor specimens from 89 patients with OSCC. We also evaluated the effects of naringenin on two murine OSCC models. Increased CD169+ macrophage counts in the regional lymph nodes correlated with favorable prognosis and CD8+ cell counts within tumor sites. Additionally, naringenin suppressed tumor growth in two murine OSCC models. The mRNA levels of CD169, interleukin (IL)-12, and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10) in lymph nodes and CTL infiltration in tumors significantly increased following naringenin administration in tumor-bearing mice. These results suggest that CD169+ macrophages in lymph nodes are involved in T cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity and could be a prognostic marker for patients with OSCC. Moreover, naringenin is a new potential agent for CD169+ macrophage activation in OSCC treatment.
Identification of CD105 (endoglin) as novel risk marker in CLL
Authors: Greiner Sarah M. , Märklin Melanie , Holzmayer Samuel , Kaban Kübra , Meyer Sophie , Hinterleitner Clemens , Tandler Claudia , Hagelstein Ilona , Jung Gundram , Salih Helmut R. , Heitmann Jonas S. , Kauer Joseph
Published: January 2022

Several genetic and clinical markers are established as prognostic factors in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). However, additional markers are needed for risk stratification. Flow cytometric analysis is a mainstay of CLL diagnostics, thus identification of novel prognostic surface markers can improve risk assessment without increasing burden for patients and physicians. Furthermore, surface molecules preferentially expressed in high-risk cases could serve as therapeutic targets for immunotherapy. CD105 (endoglin) is a TGF-beta coreceptor and activates endothelial cells in healthy tissues and cancer. In addition, it is expressed on healthy hematopoietic precursors as well as lymphoid and myeloid leukemias. In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a CD105 antibody is successfully applied in clinical studies. In CLL, mRNA expression of the CD105 gene ENG reportedly correlates with other risk factors but failed to show significant correlation with overall survival. However, CD105 protein expression in CLL has never been studied. We here analyzed CD105 surface expression on CLL cells from 71 patients by flow cytometry and report for the first time that substantial levels of CD105 are detectable on CLL cells in 70.4% of patients. Using receiver operating characteristics, we established a cutoff of 5.99% positive cells to distinguish between low and high CD105 levels, the latter correlating with decreased time to first treatment and overall survival. High CD105 expression further correlates with CD38 expression. Our study identified membrane expression of CD105 as a potential risk marker and therapeutic target in high-risk CLL. However, multivariant analyses of large cohorts should be performed in confirmatory studies.
A discrete element framework for the numerical analysis of particle bed-based additive manufacturing processes
Authors: Dorussen Bram J. A. , Geers Marc G. D. , Remmers Joris J. C.
Published: January 2022

This paper investigates the potential of the discrete element method to simulate the physics of particle bed-based additive manufacturing. This method naturally captures the discrete aspects of additive manufacturing processes, such as material addition. The proposed discrete element framework uses constitutive relations for loose powder, bonding kinematics and the thermo-mechanical behaviour of bonded particles. The mechanical bond interactions consist of beams that interconnect the particles. These beams are able to transfer forces as well as moments. The thermal conductive bond interactions assume an effective conductive area and density to account for the voids in the system. Simulated compression tests reveal that the macroscopic Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio of the bonded material are controlled by only two micro-scale parameters. Furthermore, a heat conducting rod of both powder and bonded material is simulated and compared to a continuum finite element simulation. The proposed discrete model is able to simulate a complete printing process, capturing the solid material behaviour accurately. A simulation of a printed sample shows various additive manufacturing aspects such as: the deposited powder layer, G-code input, heat source interaction, contact, bonding, thermal conduction and the accumulation of residual stresses and deformations.
Clinical characteristics and outcome of iatrogenic colonic perforation related to diagnostic vs. therapeutic colonoscopy
Authors: Cha Ra Ri , Kim Hee Jin , Lee Chang Min , Lee Jae Min , Lee Sang Soo , Cho Hyun Jin , Ha Chang Yoon , Kim Hyun Jin , Lee Ok-Jae
Published: January 2022

Aim

Iatrogenic colonic perforation (ICP) is a rare serious complication of colonoscopy, where standard treatment is controversial. This study aimed to characterize diagnostic ICP (DICP) compared to therapeutic ICP (TICP) and determine the possible indication of endoscopic repair.

Methods

We studied patients with ICP over 7 years starting in 2011. Their demographics and data regarding perforation, treatment, and outcome were investigated by retrospective review of medical records, and the diagnostic and therapeutic groups were compared.

Results

Among 29,882 patients who underwent colonoscopy, ICP was identified in 28 (0.09%: diagnostic, 15/24,758, 0.06%; therapeutic, 13/5124, 0.25%). A total of 56 patients (33 DICP and 23 TICP) including 28 referred cases were analyzed. Mean age was 62.3 ± 11.4 years, and 24 were men. Perforations occurred mostly in the rectosigmoid region and half were detected during or immediately after colonoscopy. Endoscopic treatment was successful in 22 cases and 34 required surgery. Mortality occurred in 4 (7.1%).

Compared to TICP, DICP was more prevalent in females and rectosigmoid region and more frequently detected immediately (allp < 0.05); DICP tended to occur in older patients, be larger and have better chance of endoscopic repair.

Regardless of type of ICP, female predominance, smaller perforation, more frequent immediate detection, and shorter hospital stay (allp = 0.01) were found in the endoscopic repair group.

Conclusion

DICP was more frequent in the rectosigmoid area in older women and could be detected immediately. Immediate detection and small perforation size could be important factors for endoscopic repair. Careful attention and gentle manipulation should be required.
Post-marketing surveillance of the safety and effectiveness of naldemedine in the management of opioid-induced constipation in patients with cancer pain in Japan
Authors: Takata Keiko , Nakazawa Masami , Honda Keiichi , Hashimoto Sayo
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This prospective post-marketing surveillance (PMS) was designed to collect data on the safety and effectiveness of naldemedine in routine clinical practice in patients with opioid-induced constipation (OIC) and cancer pain in Japan and explore the characteristics of patients prone to diarrhea.

Methods

The enrolled patients received naldemedine (0.2 mg, once a day) orally for up to 12 weeks. In the safety analysis, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), including diarrhea as a special interest, were assessed. Effectiveness was evaluated, especially regarding the frequency and condition of bowel movement.

Results

In the safety analysis set (n = 1177), 145 ADRs occurred in 133 (11.30%) patients, and diarrhea was the most frequent event (n = 107, 9.09%). Most cases of diarrhea were non-serious (98.1%). Most ADRs were non-serious (93.8%), and they resolved within 2 weeks (75.9%). No patient characteristics influenced the risk of diarrhea development or aggravation. Both the frequency (75.0% and 83.2%) and condition of bowel movement (80.0% and 88.0%) were improved at 2 and 12 weeks, respectively in the effectiveness analysis set (n = 953). Frequency and condition of bowel movement were also improved in patients excluded (e.g., Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status was ≥ 3) or with very small numbers (e.g., received weak opioid) in the clinical trials.

Conclusions

This PMS indicates that naldemedine is well tolerated and effective in patients of various backgrounds in routine clinical practice who have OIC and cancer pain.

Trial registration

UMIN000042851.