bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi‐enzymatic recovery of fungal cellulases (Aspergillus niger) through solid‐state fermentation of sugarcane bagasse
Authors: Alves Tales P. , Triques Carina C. , da Silva Edson A. , Fagundes‐Klen Marcia R. , Hasan Salah D. M.
Published: August 2021

In this study, the optimum conditions for the multi‐enzymatic recovery of cellulases produced by Aspergillus niger were investigated using sugarcane bagasse. Two extraction methods were investigated: the two‐stage solid–liquid extraction (SLE) followed by ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE), and the single‐stage SLE. The ultrasound effects were evaluated using a Doehlert design, in which the pH (5.0–9.0) and sonication power (0.8–2.0 W ml−1) were independent variables. For the single‐stage SLE, temperature (25–45°C), time (10–60 min), and pH (5.0–9.0) were analyzed using the Box–Behnken design. Both processes were monitored to evaluate FPase, CMCase, and β‐glucosidase (U ml−1) activities. The maximum enzymatic activities (EA) obtained for FPase, CMCase, and β‐glucosidase in the SLE–UAE were 0.352, 0.321, and 1.412 U ml−1, respectively. Unlike in most previous studies, sonication was insignificant (p < 0.05) with respect to the enzymatic complex within the evaluated ranges. Moreover, sonication changed the EA when lower than 1.2 and higher than 1.6 W ml−1, mainly inhibiting the EA of β‐glucosidase. The single‐stage SLE was more effective than the two‐stage SLE–UAE, and the maximum EA values for FPase, CMCase, and β‐glucosidase were 0.354, 0.303, and 3.135 U ml−1, respectively. The single‐stage process was better because it consumed less energy, required simpler equipment, and provided higher efficiency in a shorter time. This study will improve diversified enzyme extraction from sugarcane bagasse, reduce enzyme production costs, and enhance bagasse utilization.
Experimental and numerical modal analysis of wall tubes in the coal‐fired boiler or radiant syngas cooler
Authors: Shao Lintao , Guo Wei , Yang Weijuan , Xia Zhiwen , Kuang Jianping , Zhou Zhijun
Published: August 2021

The slag deposited on the wall tubes in the coal‐fired boiler or radiant syngas cooler (RSC) of the entrained flow gasifier could reduce the heat transfer efficiency and degrade the tubes by corrosion. During the operation of the boiler or RSC, the rapping‐off‐ash method is an effective method to remove slag deposits, especially in a high‐pressure environment. The operating parameters of the rapping‐off‐ash method are related to the modal parameters of wall tubes, including the natural frequency, damping ratio, and mode shapes. In this study, modal parameters of wall tubes composed of three single tubes and fins were experimentally determined through the modal test analysis under both empty and water‐filled conditions. The dynamic characteristics of wall tubes were extracted by using the roving hammer‐impact test and the frequency response function (FRF). A numerical simulation based on the finite element method in ABAQUS was conducted to compare with the experimental modal analysis. The first five natural modes ranged from 14 to 154 Hz, and the maximum vibration or torsion locations of wall tubes under the corresponding mode frequencies were investigated. The water inside the wall tubes could reduce the stiffness of the structure and decrease the values of natural frequency.
Extreme rainfall and its impacts in the Brazilian Minas Gerais state in January 2020: Can we blame climate change?
Authors: Dalagnol Ricardo , Gramcianinov Carolina B. , Crespo Natália Machado , Luiz Rafael , Chiquetto Julio Barboza , Marques Márcia T. A. , Neto Giovanni Dolif , de Abreu Rafael C. , Li Sihan , Lott Fraser C. , Anderson Liana O. , Sparrow Sarah
Published: August 2021

In January 2020, an extreme precipitation event occurred over southeast Brazil, with the epicentre in Minas Gerais state. Although extreme rainfall frequently occurs in this region during the wet season, this event led to the death of 56 people, drove thousands of residents into homelessness, and incurred millions of Brazilian Reais (BRL) in financial loss through the cascading effects of flooding and landslides. The main question that arises is: To what extent can we blame climate change? With this question in mind, our aim was to assess the socioeconomic impacts of this event and whether and how much of it can be attributed to human‐induced climate change. Our findings suggest that human‐induced climate change made this event >70% more likely to occur. We estimate that >90,000 people became temporarily homeless, and at least BRL 1.3 billion (USD 240 million) was lost in public and private sectors, of which 41% can be attributed to human‐induced climate change. This assessment brings new insights about the necessity and urgency of taking action on climate change, because it is already effectively impacting our society in the southeast Brazil region. Despite its dreadful impacts on society, an event with this magnitude was assessed to be quite common (return period of 4 years). This calls for immediate improvements on strategic planning focused on mitigation and adaptation. Public management and policies must evolve from the disaster response modus operandi in order to prevent future disasters.
Rectal endometriosis mimicking primary rectal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hu Jingjing , Hosseini Mojgon , Hasteh Farnaz , Murphy Paul , Pare Christopher , Kwong Wilson T. , Patel Charmi
Published: August 2021

Endometriosis is a benign entity defined as the presence of endometrium tissue outside of uterine cavity. It is a common disease involving peritoneum, pelvic organs, gastrointestinal tract, and so on. Diagnosis based on cytology specimen can be challenge when we encounter increased cytological atypia in the glandular epithelium, with abundant inflammatory cells and debris in the background. We presented a case of deep rectal endometriosis mimicking rectal adenocarcinoma on cytology specimen and on MRI imaging studies. The combination of endometrial glands, cellular Mullerian stroma, hemorrhage, and hemosiderin‐laden macrophages are the characteristic features on cytologic specimens.
Fine needle biopsy of pediatric‐type follicular lymphoma—Cytology, flow cytometry and FISH pattern: A case report
Authors: Barroca Helena , Marques Cristina , Soares Maria José , Carvalhais Inês
Published: August 2021

Pediatric‐type follicular lymphomas are rare lymphomas, affecting mostly children and young adults. These are characterized by an excellent prognosis, despite their conservative therapeutic approach. Recognized as an entity in the most recent 2016 WHO classification of tumors of hematopoietic and lymphoid tissues, its diagnosis is based on the recognition of an exclusively nodular architecture, thus conditioning the possibility of a cytological diagnosis. It is thus not odd, the scant literature found on the cytological approach to these lesions. Herein we describe a case of a pediatric‐type follicular lymphoma, first approached through fine needle biopsy. The case is thoroughly discussed from a cytologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular point of view. Differential diagnoses are discussed. The final diagnosis was performed on histology.
Diagnosis of anaplastic lymphoma kinase‐negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma on pleural fluid cytology
Authors: Greenland Nancy Y. , Lu Chuanyi M. , Cook Stephen , Peng Yue
Published: August 2021

ALK‐negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is an aggressive non‐Hodgkin T‐cell lymphoma. Compared to ALK‐positive ALCL, patients with ALK‐negative ALCL typically are older, present with nodal disease, and have lower survival rates. We report a unique presentation of ALK‐negative ALCL in a pleural fluid. Cell block preparation enabled both confirmation of the diagnosis via immunohistochemical staining and gene rearrangement testing for prognostic information.
Methotrexate‐associated proliferative disorder in the lower esophagus extending to the gastroesophageal junction: A case report
Authors: Hojo Yuki , Takatsuna Masafumi , Ikarashi Satoshi , Kamimura Hiroteru , Kimura Rika , Mito Masaki , Watanabe Yusuke , Tani Yusuke , Yokoyama Junji , Terai Shuji
Published: August 2021

A 64‐year‐old woman was receiving oral methotrexate (MTX) for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for 15 years. She underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy because of discomfort in the chest. Endoscopic findings revealed an ulcer in the lower esophagus extending to the gastroesophageal junction (EGJ). The ulcer occupied half of the esophageal lumen and had a sharp and clear margin. Magnifying narrow‐band imaging endoscopy revealed the deposition of white plaque, and there were few microvessels in the edge and bottom of the ulcer. Histologic examination of the biopsy specimens from the oral edge of the lesion revealed proliferation of atypical lymphoid cells (immunophenotype results: CD20 [+], CD3 [partially +], CD5 [−], and BCL‐2 [−]]. The patient was diagnosed with methotrexate‐associated lymphoproliferative disorder (MTX‐LPD) and was advised to stop MTX intake. After 2 months of stopping MTX, the ulcer was found to be almost regressed and showed signs of healing. MTX‐LPD in the lower esophagus extending to the EGJ is extremely rare. This case can help in expanding the understanding of esophageal MTX‐LPD.
Evaluating evidence‐based interventions in low socio‐economic‐status populations
Authors: Radunz Marcela , Pritchard Luke , Steen Eloisa , Williamson Paul , Wade Tracey D.
Published: August 2021

Objective

Socio‐economic‐status (SES) has rarely been reported or investigated in eating disorders (EDs) research. This Research Forum considers, from various perspectives, how SES may impact on evaluating evidence‐based treatments for EDs.

Method

We first reviewed previous literature that informs how SES impacts prevalence of EDs, help‐seeking, and treatment outcome. We then present findings from a case series effectiveness study of an early intervention program in low SES areas for EDs and discuss implications about the impact of SES on the effectiveness of evidence‐based interventions. Finally, we examine barriers to conducting rigorous evaluations in this population and discuss directions for future treatment outcome research.

Results

Evidence suggests a higher level of disordered eating but less help seeking in lower SES groups. In our case series, 96 participants started treatment and completed a mean of 13.85 sessions, 84 (87.5%) completed a mean of 6.40 sessional measures on ED cognitions and behaviors, but only 31% completed more extensive pre‐treatment and post‐treatment measures. The completer effect size decrease for the global Eating Disorder Examination‐Questionnaire score was 2.05 (95% CI: 1.43, 2.68) commensurate with other effectiveness studies in mixed SES groups. The high rates of missing data related to more extensive assessment present a barrier to evaluating evidence‐based treatments in this population.

Discussion

Evidence from the present study revealed individuals from low SES can achieve similar treatment outcomes to other populations when receiving evidence‐based ED treatment. Future studies should investigate a range of approaches to maximizing data collection, including use of shorter sessional measures.
Potential hydrological regime requirements for spawning success of the Chinese sturgeon Acipenser sinensis in its present spawning ground of the Yangtze River
Authors: Chang Tao , Gao Xin , Liu Huanzhang
Published: August 2021

Reservoir impoundment often alters the hydrological regimes of the river and consequently leads to the extinction of some sensitive species. This study analysed the spawning response of a critically endangered (CR) species, Chinese sturgeon Acipenser sinensis, under the changing hydrological regimes caused by the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR). Based on our statistic analysis, we inferred that the long duration (>100 days) and large magnitude (>1.8 * 106 m3/s) of high flow pulse in the flood season and low accumulated water temperature in October (<660°C) and November (<540°C) were key hydrological regimes to induce the spawning success of Chinese sturgeon. Such hydrological regimes could not be satisfied after the third phase of the TGR impoundment in 2005, which decreased the suitability of the flow (HSIF) and temperature (HSIT) regimes for the spawning of Chinese sturgeon. However, a significant complementary relationship between high HSIF and low HSIT was found in all years of successful spawning after 2005, but it did not occur in the nonspawning years of 2013, 2015 and 2017, which could be the reason for spawning failure in these years. In the years 2018 and 2019, although the complementary relationship existed, the spawning failure in these 2 years was probably due to few parent fish. Therefore, we suggest that future conservation measures should focus on both optimizing operations of the TGR to ensure suitable hydrological conditions and restocking with adult fish to ensure successful spawning.
Sub‐nanoscale Engineering of MoO2 Clusters for Enhanced Sodium Storage
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Shichao , Sun Xuan , Zhang Jinyang , uz Zaman Fakhr , Hou Linrui , Yuan Changzhou
Published: August 2021

Smart construction of battery‐type anodes with high rate and good mechanical properties is significant for advanced sodium ion capacitors (SICs). Herein, a flexible film consisting of MoO2 subnanoclusters encapsulated in nitrogen‐doped carbon nanofibers (MoO2 SCs@N‐CNFs) is designed and synthesized via electrospinning toward SICs as anodes. The strong N‐Mo interaction guarantees the stable yet uniform dispersion of high loading MoO2 SCs (≈40 wt.%) in the flexible carbonaceous substrate. The sub‐nanoscale effect of SCs restrains electrode pulverization and improves the Na+ diffusion kinetics, rendering better pseudocapacitance‐dominated Na+‐storage properties than the nanocrystal counterpart. The MoO2 SCs@N‐CNFs paper with mass loadings of 2.2–10.1 mg cm−2 can be directly used as free‐standing anode for SICs, which exhibit high reversible gravimetric/areal capacities both in liquid and quasi‐solid‐state electrolytes. The assembled flexible SICs competitively exhibit exceptional energy density and cycling stability. More significantly, the sub‐nanoscale engineering strategy here is promisingly generalized to future electrode design for other electrochemical energy‐related applications and beyond.
Cereblon regulates NK cell cytotoxicity and migration via Rac1 activation
Authors: Fionda Cinzia , Stabile Helena , Molfetta Rosa , Kosta Andrea , Peruzzi Giovanna , Ruggeri Silvia , Zingoni Alessandra , Capuano Cristina , Soriani Alessandra , Paolini Rossella , Gismondi Angela , Cippitelli Marco , Santoni Angela
Published: August 2021

Rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton is critical for cytotoxic and immunoregulatory functions as well as migration of natural killer (NK) cells. However, dynamic reorganization of actin is a complex process, which remains largely unknown. Here, we investigated the role of the protein Cereblon (CRBN), an E3 ubiquitin ligase complex co‐receptor and the primary target of the immunomodulatory drugs, in NK cells. We observed that CRBN partially colocalizes with F‐actin in chemokine‐treated NK cells and is recruited to the immunological synapse, thus suggesting a role for this protein in cytoskeleton reorganization. Accordingly, silencing of CRBN in NK cells results in a reduced cytotoxicity that correlates with a defect in conjugate and lytic synapse formation. Moreover, CRBN depletion significantly impairs the ability of NK cells to migrate and reduces the enhancing effect of lenalidomide on NK cell migration. Finally, we provided evidence that CRBN is required for activation of the small GTPase Rac1, a critical mediator of cytoskeleton dynamics. Indeed, in CRBN‐depleted NK cells, chemokine‐mediated or target cell–mediated Rac1 activation is significantly reduced. Altogether our data identify a critical role for CRBN in regulating NK cell functions and suggest that this protein may mediate the stimulatory effect of lenalidomide on NK cells.
Practical One‐Pot Multistep Synthesis of 2H‐1,3‐Benzoxazines Using Copper, Hydrogen Peroxide, and Triethylamine
Authors: Trammell Rachel , Cordova Alexandra , Zhang Shuming , Goswami Sunipa , Murata Richel , Siegler Maxime A. , Garcia‐Bosch Isaac
Published: August 2021

In this article, we describe simple one‐pot syntheses of 2H‐1,3‐benzoxazines from ketones utilizing an imino‐pyridine directing group (R1R2‐C=N−CH2‐Pyr), which promotes a Cu‐directed sp2 hydroxylation using H2O2 as oxidant and followed by an oxidative intramolecular C−O bond formation upon addition of NEt3. This synthetic protocol is utilized in the gram scale synthesis of the 2H‐1,3‐benzoxazine derived from benzophenone. Mechanistic studies reveal that the cyclization occurs via deprotonation of the benzylic position of the directing group to produce a 2‐azallyl anion intermediate, which is oxidized to the corresponding 2‐azaallyl radical before the C−O bond formation event. Understanding of the cyclization mechanism also allowed us to develop reaction conditions that utilize catalytic amounts of Cu.
S‐citalopram imprinted monolithic columns for capillary electrochromatography enantioseparations
Authors: Derazshamshir Ali , Göktürk Ilgım , Yılmaz Fatma , Denizli Adil
Published: August 2021

In this study, the molecular imprinting method was used to separate enantiomeric forms of chiral antidepressant drug, R,S‐citalopram (R,S‐CIT) in aqueous solution by CEC system combining the advantages of capillary electrophoresis (CE) and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). For that, an amino acid‐based molecularly imprinted monolithic capillary column was designed and used as a stationary phase for selective separation of S‐citalopram (S‐CIT) for the first time. S‐CIT was selectively separated from the aqueous solution containing the other enantiomeric form of R‐CIT, which is the same in size and shape as the template molecule. Morphology of the molecularly imprinted (MIP S‐CIT) and non‐imprinted (NIP S‐CIT) monolithic capillary columns was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Imprinting efficiency of MIP S‐CIT monolithic capillary column used for selective S‐CIT separation was verified by comparing with NIP S‐CIT and calculated imprinting factor (I.F:1.81) proved the high selectivity of the MIP S‐CIT for S‐CIT. Cavities formed for S‐CIT form enabled selective (α = 2.08) separation of the target molecule from the other enantiomeric R‐CIT form. Separation was achieved in a short period of 10 min, with the electrophoretic mobility of 7.68 × 10−6 m2/Vs for R,S‐CIT at pH 7.0 10 mM PB and 50% ACN ratio. The performance of both MIP S‐CIT and NIP S‐CIT columns was estimated by repeating the R,S‐CIT separations with intra‐batch and inter‐batch studies for reproducibility of retention times of R,S‐CITs. Estimated RSD values that are lower than 2% suggest that the monolithic columns separate R,S‐CIT enantiomers without losing separation efficiency.
Demonstration of an all‐in‐one solution for fire safe upholstery furniture: A benign backcoating for smoldering and flame‐resistant cover fabrics
Authors: Kim Ickchan , Thompson Andre L. , Kim Sung Chan , Hamins Anthony , Bundy Matthew , Nazaré Shonali , Davis Rick D. , Zammarano Mauro
Published: August 2021

The development of fire prevention and mitigation technologies with a benign toxicological and environmental profile has become of particular interest in the USA due to the recent adoption of state regulations that severely restrict the use of flame retardants in certain products, like residential upholstered furniture (RUF). Herein, the effectiveness of a backcoating technology in RUF is demonstrated. The backcoating is a silicone‐based elastomer, filled with vinyl‐silane modified aluminum‐hydroxide that was applied to the back side of an upholstery fabric to generate a flexible and effective fire barrier. Chair mock‐ups were assembled using either an uncoated cotton fabric (UCF) or a backcoated cotton fabric (BCF) as cover fabric. The fire performance of the chair mock‐ups incorporating the UCF and BCF was compared in an open‐burning calorimeter after exposure to either a flaming ignition source or a smoldering ignition source. In the flaming ignition tests, the chair mock‐ups with BCF showed a reduction in the peak heat release rate and the total heat released by factors of about 6 and 45, respectively, as compared to the chair mock‐ups with UCF. In the smoldering ignition tests, the chair mock‐ups with UCF showed intense smoldering, which eventually transitioned to open flaming, whereas, the BCF chair mock‐ups showed no sign of foam or fabric smoldering. The backcoating also offered a durable fire protection solution, with an abrasion resistance of BCF roughly doubled compared to UCF. Ultimately, the backcoating provided an unusual combination of smoldering and flaming ignition resistance while complying with several recently enacted or pending U.S. state regulations.
Recurrent loss of chromosome 22 and SMARCB1 deletion in extra‐axial chordoma: A clinicopathological and molecular analysis
Authors: Wen Xiaoyun , Cimera Robert , Aryeequaye Ruth , Abhinta Mohanty , Athanasian Edward , Healey John , Fabbri Nicola , Boland Patrick , Zhang Yanming , Hameed Meera
Published: August 2021

Extra‐axial chordoma is a rare neoplasm of extra‐axial skeleton and soft tissue that shares identical histomorphologic and immunophenotypic features with midline chordoma. While genetic changes in conventional chordoma have been well‐studied, the genomic alterations of extra‐axial chordoma have not been reported. It is well known that conventional chordoma is a tumor with predominantly non‐random copy number alterations and low mutational burden. Herein we describe the clinicopathologic and genomic characteristics of six cases of extra‐axial chordoma, with genome‐wide high‐resolution single nucleotide polymorphism array, fluorescence in situ hybridization and targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) analysis. The patients presented at a mean age of 33 years (range: 21–54) with a female to male ratio of 5:1. Four cases were histologically conventional type, presented with bone lesions and three of them had local recurrence. Two cases were poorly differentiated chordomas, presented with intra‐articular soft tissue masses and both developed distant metastases. All cases showed brachyury positivity and the two poorly differentiated chordomas showed in addition loss of INI‐1 expression by immunohistochemical analysis. Three of four extra‐axial conventional chordomas showed simple genome with loss of chromosome 22 or a heterozygous deletion of SMARCB1. Both poorly differentiated chordomas demonstrated a complex hyperdiploid genomic profile with gain of multiple chromosomes and homozygous deletion of SMARCB1. Our findings show that heterozygous deletion of SMARCB1 or the loss of chromosome 22 is a consistent abnormality in extra‐axial chordoma and transformation to poorly differentiated chordoma is characterized by homozygous loss of SMARCB1 associated with genomic complexity and instability such as hyperdiploidy.
Biliary organoids uncover delayed epithelial development and barrier function in biliary atresia
Authors: Amarachintha Surya P. , Mourya Reena , Ayabe Hiroaki , Yang Li , Luo Zhenhua , Li Xiaofeng , Thanekar Unmesha , Shivakumar Pranavkumar , Bezerra Jorge A.
Published: August 2021

Background and Aims

Biliary atresia is a severe inflammatory and fibrosing cholangiopathy of neonates of unknown etiology. The onset of cholestasis at birth implies a prenatal onset of liver dysfunction. Our aim was to investigate the mechanisms linked to abnormal cholangiocyte development.

Approach and Results

We generated biliary organoids from liver biopsies of infants with biliary atresia and normal and diseased controls. Organoids emerged from biliary atresia livers and controls and grew as lumen‐containing spheres with an epithelial lining of cytokeratin‐19posalbuminnegSOX17neg cholangiocyte‐like cells. Spheres had similar gross morphology in all three groups and expressed cholangiocyte‐enriched genes. In biliary atresia, cholangiocyte‐like cells lacked a basal positioning of the nucleus, expressed fewer developmental and functional markers, and displayed misorientation of cilia. They aberrantly expressed F‐actin, β‐catenin, and Ezrin, had low signals for the tight junction protein zonula occludens‐1 (ZO‐1), and displayed increased permeability as evidenced by a higher Rhodamine‐123 (R123) signal inside organoids after verapamil treatment. Biliary atresia organoids had decreased expression of genes related to EGF signaling and FGF2 signaling. When treated with EGF+FGF2, biliary atresia organoids expressed differentiation (cytokeratin 7 and hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 homeobox B) and functional (somatostatin receptor 2, cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator [CFTR], aquaporin 1) markers, restored polarity with improved localization of F‐actin, β‐catenin and ZO‐1, increased CFTR function, and decreased uptake of R123.

Conclusions

Organoids from biliary atresia are viable and have evidence of halted epithelial development. The induction of developmental markers, improved cell‐cell junction, and decreased epithelial permeability by EGF and FGF2 identifies potential strategies to promote epithelial maturation and function.
Is race important in genomic classification of hematological neoplasms?
Authors: Huang Huijun , Wu Junying , Qin Tiejun , Xu Zefeng , Qu Shiqiang , Pan Lijuan , Cai Wenyu , Liu Jinqin , Wang Huijun , Sun Qi , Jiao Meng , Gao Qingyan , Huang Gang , Gale Robert Peter , Li Bing , Xiao Zhijian
Published: August 2021

In recent years, genome‐based classifications for hematological neoplasms have been proposed successively and proved to be more accurate than histologic classifications. However, some previous studies have reported the racial differences of genetic landscape in persons with hematological neoplasms including myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), which may cause a genomic classification based on a particular ethnic group does not operate in other races. To determine whether race plays an important role in the genomic‐based classification, we validated a newly proposed genomic classification of MDS (J Clin Oncol.2021; JCO2001659), which was based on a large European database, in Chinese patients from our center. Our results showed significant differences between Chinese and European patients including proportion of each group to overall cohort when applying this novel genomic classification. Our data indicate that a genomic classification of hematological neoplasms probably should be revised according to specific genetic features in different races.
Unravelling runoff processes in Andean basins in northern Ecuador through hydrological signatures
Authors: Gordillo Jonathan , Pineda Luis E.
Published: August 2021

Streamflow is the runoff response integrated in space and time over a complex system involving climatic and catchment physiographic factors. In the Andes, accelerating runoff process understanding is hampered by the inability to quantify heterogeneity of surface and subsurface catchment properties. Here, we present a statistical approach based on regression models and correlation analysis that links hydrological signatures and catchment properties to unveil processes in a set of volcanic mountain catchments (latitude 0°30'N) in Ecuador. The catchments represent form and function diversity in the same hydrological unit. We found that despite of similar atmospheric‐water inputs the water yield in the north‐east region is about 5× larger than in the south‐west region and their flow regimes are asymmetric. The soil‐bedrock interface and lithology exert a first‐order control on hydrologic partitioning, and this allowed us to hypothesize two hydrological mechanisms. Firstly, in the north‐east region, the perennial streamflow is associated with seasonal rainfall patterns, and subsequent drainage processes taking place at the surface and subsurface level. The amount of streamflow is related to landform characteristics, high canopy density and root development of forest as well as water holding capacity of organic soils. From a mechanistic standpoint, the low concentration time, steep slopes and shallow infiltration limited by high‐consolidated deposits of sedimentary and volcanics suggest a lateral movement of the flow. Secondly, in the south‐west region the streamflow regime is mostly groundwater‐dependent and it becomes seasonally enhanced by rainfall. Larger seasonal variations of precipitation and temperature result into enhanced evapotranspiration in the drier months, limiting shallow soil infiltration. Under the soil layers, highly permeable pyroclastic deposits and andesitic lavas promote deep percolation. The results highlight the degree of dissimilarity of hydrological processes in Andean settings, but unravelling their complexity seems plausible using streamflow signatures and causal explanatory models.
Contextually Communicating Sequential Processes — a Software Engineering Environment
Authors: Elizabeth M. , Hull C. , Donnan G.
Published: August 2021

A software tool is presented for the design of concurrent systems. The design process, which is supported by graphics and text, is integrated from the highest level to the generation of code. The system provides the facility for each entity in the design to be handled in its own context or set of contexts. This feature avoids the ambiguities and errors which may occur when traditional design methods are used.
The ameliorative effect ofN‐acetylcysteine against penconazole induced neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory disorders in rats
Authors: Morgan Ashraf M. , Hassanen Eman I. , Ogaly Hanan A. , Al Dulmani Sharah A. , Al‐Zahrani Fatimah A. M. , Galal Mona K. , Kamel Shaimaa , Rashad Maha M. , Ibrahim Marwa A. , Hussien Ahmed M.
Published: August 2021

Penconazole (PEN) is a widely used systemic fungicide to treat various fungal diseases in plants but it leaves residues in crops and food products causing serious environmental and health problems.N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) is a precursor of the antioxidant glutathione in the body and exerts prominent antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects. The present study aimed to explore the mechanistic way of NAC to ameliorate the PEN neurotoxicity in male rats. Twenty‐eight male rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 7) and given the treated material via oral gavage for 10 days as the following: Group I (distilled water), Group II (50 mg/kg body weight [bwt] PEN), Group III (200 mg/kg bwt NAC), and Group IV (NAC + PEN). After 10 days all rats were subjected to behavioral assessment and then euthanized to collect brain tissues to perform oxidative stress, molecular studies, and pathological examination. Our results revealed that PEN exhibits neurobehavioral toxicity manifested by alteration in the forced swim test, elevated plus maze test, and Y‐maze test. There were marked elevations in malondialdehyde levels with reduction in total antioxidant capacity levels, upregulation of messenger RNA levels of bax, caspase 3, and caspase 9 genes with downregulation of bcl2 genes. In addition, brain sections showed marked histopathological alteration in the cerebrum and cerebellum with strong bax and inducible nitric oxide synthetase protein expression. On the contrary, cotreatment of rats with NAC had the ability to improve all the abovementioned neurotoxic parameters. The present study can conclude that NAC has a neuroprotective effect against PEN‐induced neurotoxicity via its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effect. We recommend using NAC as a preventive and therapeutic agent for a wide variety of neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory disorders.
Methylation degree of metalloproteinase inhibitor RECK gene: Links to RECK protein level and hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic HCV infection patients
Authors: Abo El‐khair Salwa M. , Elalfy Hatem , Diasty Muhammad , Ebrahim Eman E. , Elsamanoudy Ayman Z.
Published: August 2021

The RECK gene, a tumor suppressor gene, inhibits angiogenesis, invasion, and tumor metastasis. Epigenetic regulation of the RECK gene constitutes a potent approach to the molecular basis of liver malignancy. This study aims to evaluate the promoter methylation status of the RECK gene and its serum level in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the potential association of RECK gene methylation with clinical criteria of HCC. One hundred and fifty‐five subjects were included (healthy control [55], chronic HCV patients [55], HCV‐related HCC patients [45]). The methylation status of the RECK gene promoter and serum RECK level were investigated by methylation‐specific PCR and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay techniques, respectively. RECK gene promoter hypermethylation was recorded in 46.7% of HCC patients, and 10.9% of HCV patients, but not in control subjects (0%). It was related to RECK protein level, varices, edema, ascites, lymph node metastasis, vascular invasion, and the largest diameter of focal lesions. Meanwhile, it was not associated with focal lesion number nor distant metastasis of HCC. In conclusion, RECK gene promoter hypermethylation is linked to HCV genotype‐4‐related HCC. Moreover, different degrees of RECK gene promoter methylation are associated with serum RECK level, lymph node metastasis, and vascular invasion, which could prove its pathogenic role in hepatocarcinogenesis in chronic HCV‐infected patients.
Thymoquinone has a neuroprotective effect against inflammation, oxidative stress, and endoplasmic reticulum stress in the brain cortex, medulla, and hippocampus due to doxorubicin
Authors: Kaymak Emin , Akin Ali Tuğrul , Öztürk Emel , Karabulut Derya , Kuloğlu Nurhan , Yakan Birkan
Published: August 2021

Although doxorubicin (DOX) is used in many cancer treatments, it causes neurotoxicity. In this study, the effect of thymoquinone (THQ), a powerful antioxidant, on DOX‐induced neurotoxicity was evaluated. In total, 40 rats were used and 5 groups were formed. Group I: control group (n = 8); Group II: olive oil group (n = 8); Group III: the THQ group (n = 8); THQ 10 mg/kg per day was given intraperitoneally (i.p.) throughout the experiment; group IV: DOX group (n = 8); On Day 7 of the experiment, a single dose of 15 mg/kg intraperitoneally DOX injected; group V: DOX + THQ group (n = 8); Throughout the experiment, 10 mg/kg THQ per day and intraperitoneally 15 mg/kg DOX on Day 7 were injected. Immunohistochemically, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐17 (IL‐17), hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF1‐α), glucose regulatory protein 78 (GRP78), and the gene inducible by growth arrest and DNA damage 153 (GADD153) proteins were evaluated in the brain cortex, medulla, and hippocampus regions. Total oxidant status (TOS) levels and total antioxidant status (TAS) in the brain tissue were measured. TNF‐α, IL‐17, HIF1‐α, GRP78, and GADD153 immunoreactivities significantly increased in the DOX group in the study. THQ significantly reduced these values. THQ increased the TAS level significantly and decreased the TOS level significantly compared to the DOX group. THQ may play a role as a neuroprotective agent in DOX‐induced neurotoxicity in the cortex, medulla, and hippocampus regions of the brain.
Variability in caries management decision‐making in a dental school setting
Authors: Booth Evan T , Eckert George J , Fontana Margherita
Published: August 2021

Objective

To assess variability in caries management decision‐making by faculty and dental students. Understanding sources of variability during training can aid in implementing evidence‐based clinical decision‐making in caries management.

Methods

A voluntary, anonymous survey including clinical scenarios was distributed online to dental students in their first (D1) and third‐year (D3) of training, and to faculty in the Department of Cariology, Restorative Sciences and Endodontics.

Results

The response rate was 100% (108/108) for D1 students, 56% (73/130) for D3 students, and 39% (34/88; 12 full‐time and 22 part‐time) for faculty. D1 students, who were completing a cariology course, were in general more conservative in restorative thresholds for less severe caries lesions than D3 students and sometimes clinical faculty (e.g., for lesions at the DEJ, a significantly [p < 0.05] higher percentage of D3 students would restore these [53%] compared to D1 students and faculty [19% and 18%, respectively; p > 0.05]). For all groups, the threshold for doing restorative intervention was shifted toward less severe caries lesions as the caries risk increased (e.g., very few respondents would restore an occlusal lesion confined to enamel, with significantly [p < 0.05] less percentage of D1 students [lower risk scenario‐LR = 4%; higher risk scenario‐HR = 22%] compared to D3 students and faculty [LR = 15% and 18%; HR = 66% and 62%, respectively; p > 0.05]). Class lectures/preclinical instructors were the most important factor influencing decision‐making for D1 students, versus clinical experiences/instructors for D3 students.

Conclusion

Although the majority of respondents used best‐evidence deciding caries management, there was variability in how to manage less severe lesions, with caries risk influencing clinical thresholds, and clinical experiences influencing students’ decision‐making over time.
Highly edge‐connected regular graphs without large factorizable subgraphs
Authors: Mattiolo Davide , Steffen Eckhard
Published: August 2021

We construct highly edge‐connected ‐regular graphs of even order which do not contain pairwise disjoint perfect matchings. When is a multiple of 4, the result solves a problem of Thomassen [4].
Elevated inflammatory markers are associated with poor outcomes in COVID‐19 patients treated with remdesivir
Authors: Stoeckle Kate , Witting Britta , Kapadia Shashi , An Anjile , Marks Kristen
Published: August 2021

The antiviral remdesivir has been shown to decrease the length of hospital stay in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients requiring supplemental oxygen. However many patients decompensate despite being treated with remdesivir. To identify potential prognostic factors in remdesivir‐treated patients, we performed a retrospective cohort study of patients hospitalized at NewYork‐Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center between March 23, 2020 and May 27, 2020. We identified 55 patients who were treated with remdesivir for COVID‐19 and analyzed inflammatory markers and clinical outcomes. C‐reactive protein (CRP), d‐dimer, and lactate dehydrogenase levels were significantly higher in patients who progressed to intubation or death by 14 days compared to those who remained stable. CRP levels decreased significantly after remdesivir administration in patients who remained nonintubated over the study period. To our knowledge, this is the largest study to date examining inflammatory markers before and after remdesivir administration. Our findings support further investigation into COVID‐19 treatment strategies that modify the inflammatory response.
The quantitative comparison of contributions from vapour and temperature to midsummer precipitation in China under the influence of spring heat source over Tibet Plateau
Authors: Hao Jiawei , Lu Er
Published: August 2021

The thermal forcing of the Tibet Plateau (TP) causes circulation anomalies that may affect the East Asian monsoon. Hence, summer precipitation in China has a close relation to the previous heat source over TP. The saturation of the atmosphere is the precondition of precipitation, so variations of vapour and temperature adjust the generation of precipitation synergistically. The heating of TP exerts impacts on summer precipitation in China, essentially, through modulating vapour and temperature. The goal of this study is to identify whether the variations of temperature or vapour dominate in the end. Besides, according to the heating characteristics over TP, a more accurate area of spring (March–May) heat source is chosen to indicate the midsummer (July) precipitation in China. The configuration of contributions of temperature and vapour can be divided into two cases. One is that vapour and temperature both increase or decrease, so they play inverse roles. It is easy to find the dominant element in this circumstance. The other is that vapour and temperature have concurrent effects. In this case, their significances need to be further compared. The method based on the linkage of the precipitation and relative humidity is used to quantitatively compare the effects of temperature and vapour. The results are robust and can complement the qualitative analysis with circulations and temperature. In years that there is intense heating on west TP, the Yangtze River basin (YZRB) is controlled by more vapour transport from oceans. The downstream of the Yellow River basin (YLRB) is affected by the dry and cold northerly winds. Dominance analysis shows that vapour general plays a more important role in two major river basins. Maybe not exactly coincide with someone's envision, not all the places are dominated by the vapour. Around northeast China, temperature contributes little more than vapour.
Multivariate analysis of rainfall and its deficiency signatures using vine copulas
Authors: Nazeri Tahroudi Mohammad , Ramezani Yousef , de Michele Carlo , Mirabbasi Rasoul
Published: August 2021

In the present study, a method based on the conditional density of vine copulas was used to drought monitoring and predicting the rainfall deficiency signature for a 60‐day duration in Dashband, sub‐basin of Lake Urmia basin. The annual rainfall and rainfall deficiency signatures at 10‐, 30‐ and 60‐day durations were considered as variables. D‐, C‐ and R‐vine copulas were used to represent the dependence among the variables, finding that D‐vine copula results to be more accurate for the case of interest. We found that, if the rainfall is less than the long‐term mean in the region, the rainfall deficiency signature for near future can be estimated by acceptable accuracy. Moreover, the results of the conditional probability analysis of rainfall deficiency signature for a 60‐day duration respect to the other variables showed that, on average, the probability of the occurrence of rainfall deficiency signature of 250 mm compared to the long‐term mean in the study area is more than 50% per year. The results showed that the proposed approach may facilitate the meteorological drought management in the considered sub‐basin.
Evapotranspiration trends and variability in southeastern South America: The roles of land‐cover change and precipitation variability
Authors: Ruscica Romina C. , Sörensson Anna A. , Diaz Leandro B. , Vera Carolina , Castro Aline , Papastefanou Phillip , Rammig Anja , Rezende Luiz F. C. , Sakschewski Boris , Thonicke Kirsten , Viovy Nicolas , von Randow Celso
Published: August 2021

Southeastern South America is subject to considerable precipitation variability on seasonal to decadal timescales and has undergone very heavy land‐cover changes (LCCs) since the middle of the past century. The influence of local LCC and precipitation as drivers of regional evapotranspiration (ET) long‐term trends and variability remains largely unknown in the region. Here, ensembles of stand‐alone dynamic global vegetation models (DGVMs) with different atmospheric forcings are used to disentangle the influence of those two drivers on austral summer ET from 1950 to 2010. This paper examines the influence of both the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the dipole‐like first‐mode of southeastern South American precipitation variability (EOF1) on regional ET. We found that in the lower La Plata Basin, ET was driven by precipitation variability and showed a positive summer trend. Moreover, the region showed marked seasonal anomalies during El Niño and La Niña summers but mainly during EOF1 phases. On the contrary, in the upper La Plata Basin, LCCs forced the negative summer ET trend and particularly reduced the summer anomalies of the late 1990s, a period of ENSO and EOF1‐positive phases. In the South Atlantic Convergence Zone region, the high ET uncertainty across ensemble members impeded finding robust results, which highlights the importance of using multiple DGVMs and atmospheric forcings instead of relying on single model/forcing results.
Why Do Political Elites Fracture? The Unusual Case of the Yugoslav Communist Elite
Authors: Flere Sergej , Rutar Tibor
Published: August 2021

After World War II, Yugoslavia as a state was reconstituted by a small communist elite. Since this was an ideocratic rule, ideology was taken seriously by the elite and treated enthusiastically. One of the elite’s initial goals was to speedily develop Yugoslavia, so that a Western level of economic development be achieved. Economic disparities among regions were also to have been overcome. For various reasons, this objective was never close to being achieved, although in certain periods economic development was strong. The elite tried to speed up growth by various incentives, including worker self‐management. Failure to achieve this goal and various economic troubles first precipitated mutual acrimony within the elite along national lines, while at the next stage, it brought about ethnic segmentation of the elite itself. By 1972, the elite had dissolved into national, although still communist, elites. The major reasons for this process are found in the very failure to achieve the developmental goal, in the consociational nature of the political system, and in the nature of the political elites, which were national ones. Elite segmentation sheds important light on the dissolution of the Yugoslav state.
“Palestine’s Robin Hood”: Abu‐Jildeh and the Making of a Social Bandit
Authors: Chetrit Shlomi
Published: August 2021

This study explores the history of Palestinian Arab outlaw Abu‐Jildeh (∼1900–1934), as a case study for constructing a social bandit image. Between May 1933 and April 1934, following several robberies and murders, Abu‐Jildeh was Palestine’s most wanted criminal. The British‐led Palestine Police Force’s failure to arrest the bandit, despite significant efforts, further enhanced Abu‐Jildeh’s public image, making him an Arab folk hero and symbol of resistance to the British Mandate government. The research used British archival sources, Palestinian Arab and Jewish press articles, memoirs, and oral history to propose a valid historical narrative and uncover the facts behind a typical social bandit myth. These enable retracing the actions of the three main actors in Abu‐Jildeh’s saga: the outlaw himself, the police hunting him, and the local Arab press, who glorified him. Seen in the context of contemporary Arab political and national climate in Palestine, the interplay between bandit, police, and press shows how an ordinary, “opportunistic,” criminal transformed into a national hero, regardless of his actions.
Eustace the Monk: Banditry, Piracy and the Limits of State Authority in the High Middle Ages
Authors: Lehr Peter
Published: August 2021

Bandits have been popular ‘heroic’ individuals throughout history. Many of them also proved to be quite useful figures, allowing interested parties to fill in gaps in their capacities on the quick by way of co‐opting them. Such ‘interested parties’ even included kings, whose authority still was a rather limited one. A particularly glaring gap in their authority existed at sea: keeping a fleet at the ready was quite expensive, and affordable only for a few rich exceptions. Everyone else had to make use of naval mercenaries–pirates with a license. One of the most illustrious medieval examples of such maritime entrepreneurs is Eustace the Monk. His colourful life includes being a monk, the seneschal of the Count of Boulogne, a bandit and pirate after he fell out with the count, and finally naval mercenary first for King John of England, then for King Philip Augustus of France. This contribution focuses on Eustace the Monk's maritime career. It will do so by assessing the political constellation and culture of his days which made it possible in the first place.