bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovation in complex assembled electronic products: An analysis of the evolution of television components
Authors: Singh Shivendu Pratap , Kemerer Chris F. , Ramasubbu Narayan
Published: May 2021

A complex assembled electronic product (CAEP), such as a modern television (TV), can be produced in a variety of design configurations using different combinations of software and hardware components that are arranged together in a hierarchy of technical subsystems within a defined product architecture. We examine the lifecycle of individual components that make up a CAEP to better understand why its dominant design configuration includes specific components from among the (often many) competing alternatives. The emergence of the dominant design configuration of a product has long‐term implications on the operational efficiency of a firm's product assembly line and its component selection strategy. We test hypotheses that explain both the inclusion of a component in the dominant design configuration of a CAEP, and its longevity to remain in the product market over the lifecycle of the CAEP using three key factors: (a)pleiotropy, or the number of functions supported by the component, (b) the nature of standards used by the component (openvs.closed), and (c) the source of innovation of the component (exogenousvs.endogenousto the industry). We empirically test our hypotheses using a longitudinal data set of 2830 TV models spanning 15 years (2002–2016). The results show that components that have higher pleiotropy and that are supported by open standards not only have a higher chance of being selected into the dominant design configuration of TV, but also remain in the TV market for a longer time. Specifically, every additional functionality associated with a component increases its likelihood of entering the dominant design configuration by approximately three times, and its longevity by about 2 years. Similarly, a component supported by an open standard is approximately four times more likely to be part of the dominant design configuration compared with a component supported by a closed standard, and it remains in the TV market for approximately an additional 2 years. In addition, components developed through endogenous innovation efforts were nearly five times more likely to enter the dominant design configuration of TV. Their longevity, however, was not significantly different from that of components sourced exogenously. Building on these results, we discuss the implications for product management of CAEP and for further research to examine innovation in CAEPs.
Detecting rotational disorder in heme proteins: A comparison between resonance Raman spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and circular dichroism
Authors: Sebastiani Federico , Milazzo Lisa , Exertier Cécile , Becucci Maurizio , Smulevich Giulietta
Published: May 2021

In heme proteins, the canonical and reversed conformations result from the rotation of the heme group by 180° about the α,γ‐meso axis in the protein pocket. The coexistence of the two different heme orientations has been observed both in proteins reconstituted with hemin and in some native proteins. The reversal of the heme orientation can also change certain functional properties of heme proteins. Complementing the results from other experimental techniques, like circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance, resonance Raman spectroscopy provides detailed information on the structure of the reversed heme. This allows one to elucidate the effects of the heme rotation on the vibrational spectra of the peripheral substituents, especially the vinyl groups. Furthermore, the combination of resonance Raman spectroscopy on single crystals and solution samples of heme proteins is proposed to be a sensitive tool to detect heme orientational disorder, even in the absence of structural data.
Application of HKUST‐1 metal‐organic framework as coating for headspace solid‐phase microextraction of some addictive drugs
Authors: Baheri Tahmine , Yamini Yadollah , Shamsayei Maryam , Tabibpour Mahmoud
Published: May 2021

In the present study, a copper‐based metal‐organic framework (HKUST‐1) was used first time for preconcentration trace amounts of addictive drugs in biological samples. HKUST‐1 was synthesized and coated onto the surface of stainless steel wire. The prepared coating was used in headspace solid‐phase microextraction method coupled with gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry for preconcentration and determination of some addictive drugs in biological fluids. Prepared coating shows good extraction efficiency due to large surface area, and π–π stacking interaction with selected analytes. Under optimum conditions, the method was validated with a reasonable determination coefficient (R2 > 0.9961) and suitable linear dynamic range (0.5–1000 μg L−1). Also, the limits of detections were obtained in the range of 0.1–0.4, 0.2–0.6, and 0.4–0.7 μg L−1 for water, urine, and plasma samples, respectively. The limits of quantification of present method were obtained in the range 0.5–1.3, 0.7–1.5, and 1.0–1.9 μg L−1 in water, urine, and plasma samples, respectively. The intra‐day and inter‐dye single fiber and fiber to fiber relative standard deviations were observed in the range 3.0–13.9% and 3.5–12.3%, respectively. Finally, the present method was applied for the determination of the drugs in biological samples.
Assessment of the Rigidity Changes of Corpus Cavernosum Penis in Vasculary Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Subtypes by Shear Wave Elastography (SWE)
Authors: Aybar Mustafa Devran , Turna Onder
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition that is very common all over the world, concerns about men and causes very important social problems. The aim of this study is to perform quantitative penile corpus cavernosum (CC) stiffness measurements by using SWE for patients with both types of vascular ED.

Methods

In our study, we handled the data of 101 participants in total. The average age of the participants was 56.36. We divided the participants after color Doppler US (CDUS) into three groups: normal group (n = 30), arterial insufficiency (n = 51), and venous insufficiency (n = 20). SWE measurements were made in both groups in the CC flaccid (f) and rigid (r) positions, and the results were noted. International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF‐5) questionnaire and Erection score (ES) were evaluated.

Results

The mean CC f SWE and r SWE measurement values were 20.2 ± 0.8 and 17.15 ± 0.54 kPa, 3.84 ± 0.13 and 2.78 ± 0.11 m/s in the arterial insufficiency group; 15.72 ± 0.58 and 12.52 ± 0.33 kPa, 2.88 ± 0.06 and 2.09 ± 0.11 m/s in the venous insufficiency group; 14.75 ± 0.51 and 13.41 ± 0.36 kPa, 2.63 ± 0.1 and 2.34 ± 0.11 m/s in the control group, respectively. The CC measurement of f SWE and r SWE values as kPa showed significant differences between the groups (P < .001).

Conclusion

SWE can provide quantitative data with high specificity and sensitivity while evaluating CC penile stiffness noninvasively. It seems to contribute to the radiological evaluation of ED cases with useful data.
Responses of mineral nutrient contents and transport in red clover under aluminum stress
Authors: Yang Qin , Lin Yonghe , Jin Ling , Ren Xiaoyan , He Chunyan , Liu Quan
Published: May 2021

Aluminum toxicity is considered the main factor underlying nutrient deficiencies and growth limitations of plants in acidic soil. Red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) is an important legume grass distributed worldwide, and it has medicinal value and strong adaptability to acidic soil with Al. However, few studies have focused on the relationship between nutrient uptake and Al stress. In this study, the changes in nutrients in the organs (root, stem, and leaf) of the cultivars Brilliant, Dory, and Haifa under high aluminum stress were detected. The results indicated that the contents of macronutrients and micronutrients were significantly influenced by Al3+ concentrations and the interaction between Al3+ concentrations and cultivars (P < 0.05). Under the Al3+ treatments, the contents of phosphorus (P) and magnesium (Mg) significantly decreased by 30.5% to 87.2% and 6.3% to 39.2%, respectively. However, potassium (K), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn) increased significantly, and these changes were closely correlated with Al resistance. The effect of Al stress on the copper (Cu) content varied with the plant organs, with Cu reduced in the roots but increased in the stems and leaves. Furthermore, the change ranges of nutrition contents in the sensitive cultivar were largest except for Cu. For example, the contents of Ca dropped by 26% in Brilliant leaves but decreased by less than 4% in the leaves of Haifa and Dory at 5‐mM Al3+. Moreover, the nutrient transport efficiencies were positively correlated with the Al3+ treatment concentrations in resistant cultivar except for Mg.
Krill availability in adjacent Adélie and gentoo penguin foraging regions near Palmer Station, Antarctica
Authors: Nardelli Schuyler C. , Cimino Megan A. , Conroy John A. , Fraser William R. , Steinberg Deborah K. , Schofield Oscar
Published: May 2021

The Palmer Deep canyon along the West Antarctic Peninsula is a biological hotspot with abundant phytoplankton and krill supporting Adélie and gentoo penguin rookeries at the canyon head. Nearshore studies have focused on physical mechanisms driving primary production and penguin foraging, but less is known about finer‐scale krill distribution and density. We designed two acoustic survey grids paired with conductivity–temperature–depth profiles within adjacent Adélie and gentoo penguin foraging regions near Palmer Station, Antarctica. The grids were sampled from January to March 2019 to assess variability in krill availability and associations with oceanographic properties. Krill density was similar in the two regions, but krill swarms were longer and larger in the gentoo foraging region, which was also less stratified and had lower chlorophyll concentrations. In the inshore zone near penguin colonies, depth‐integrated krill density increased from summer to autumn (January–March) independent of chlorophyll concentration, suggesting a life history‐driven adult krill migration rather than a resource‐driven biomass increase. The daytime depth of krill biomass deepened through the summer and became decoupled from the chlorophyll maximum in March as diel vertical migration magnitude likely increased. Penguins near Palmer Station did not appear to be limited by krill availability during our study, and regional differences in krill depth match the foraging behaviors of the two penguin species. Understanding fine‐scale physical forcing and ecological interactions in coastal Antarctic hotspots is critical for predicting how environmental change will impact these ecosystems.
Long‐term development and trajectories of inferred lake‐water organic carbon and pH in naturally acidic boreal lakes
Authors: Myrstener Erik , Ninnes Sofia , Meyer‐Jacob Carsten , Mighall Tim , Bindler Richard
Published: May 2021

Monitoring of surface waters in the boreal region over the last decades shows that waters are becoming browner. This timeframe may not, however, be sufficient to capture underlying trajectories and driving mechanisms of lake‐water quality, important for prediction of future trajectories. Here we synthesize data from seven lakes in the Swedish boreal landscape, with contemporary lake‐water total organic carbon (TOC) concentrations of 1.4–14.4 mg L−1, to conceptualize how natural and particularly human‐driven processes at the landscape scale have regulated lake‐water TOC levels over the Holocene. Sediment‐inferred trends in TOC are supported by several proxies, including diatom‐inferred pH. Before ~ 700 ce, all lakes were naturally acidic (pH 4.7–5.4) and the concentrations of inferred lake‐water TOC were high (10–23 mg L−1). The introduction of traditional human land use from ~ 700 ce led to a decrease in lake‐water TOC in all lakes (to 5–14 mg L−1), and in four poorly buffered lakes, also to an increase in pH by > 1 unit. During the 20th century, industrial acid deposition was superimposed on centuries of land use, which resulted in unprecedentedly low lake‐water TOC in all lakes (3–11 mg L−1) and severely reduced pH in the four poorly buffered lakes. The other lakes resisted pH changes, likely due to close connections to peatlands. Our results indicate that an important part of the recent browning of boreal lakes is a recovery from human impacts. Furthermore, on a conceptual level we stress that contemporary environmental changes occur within the context of past, long‐term disturbances.
2‐Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate Hydrogels for Local Drug Delivery: Study of Topotecan and Vincristine Sorption/Desorption Kinetics and Polymer‐Drug Interaction by ATR‐FTIR Spectroscopy
Authors: Cocarta Ana‐Irina , Hobzova Radka , Trchova Miroslava , Svojgr Karel , Kodetova Martina , Pochop Pavel , Uhlik Jiri , Sirc Jakub
Published: May 2021

Poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA) hydrogels are well known in ophthalmological applications and recently investigated as drug delivery systems. The study represents a theoretical approach where the sorption/desorption experiments and spectroscopic study is used to describe the influence of the pHEMA network structure on the sorption capacity and mechanism of the release of topotecan (TPT) and vincristine (VCR). The hydrogels are synthesized by free‐radical crosslinking polymerization of HEMA monomer with ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as a crosslinker in the concentration range from 0.3 to 1 wt%. Experimental data from sorption kinetics are evaluated using sorption kinetic models and sorption isotherms, drug release mechanism is assessed by two different models and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) spectroscopy is employed to describe the polymer‐drug interaction. pHEMA hydrogels exhibit higher affinity for TPT than for VCR and hydrogels prepared with 0.5 wt% of crosslinker show the maximum sorption capacity for both drugs. Physisorption is proved to be the sorption mechanism. Analyzing the FTIR spectra, it is concluded that the hydrophobic crosslinks play an important role in the interaction of the hydrogel backbone with molecules of both drugs.
Novel cell sources for bone regeneration
Authors: Li Chenshuang , Mills Zane , Zheng Zhong
Published: May 2021

A plethora of both acute and chronic conditions, including traumatic, degenerative, malignant, or congenital disorders, commonly induce bone disorders often associated with severe persisting pain and limited mobility. Over 1 million surgical procedures involving bone excision, bone grafting, and fracture repair are performed each year in the U.S. alone, resulting in immense levels of public health challenges and corresponding financial burdens. Unfortunately, the innate self‐healing capacity of bone is often inadequate for larger defects over a critical size. Moreover, as direct transplantation of committed osteoblasts is hindered by deficient cell availability, limited cell spreading, and poor survivability, an urgent need for novel cell sources for bone regeneration is concurrent. Thanks to the development in stem cell biology and cell reprogramming technology, many multipotent and pluripotent cells that manifest promising osteogenic potential are considered the regenerative remedy for bone defects. Considering these cells' investigation is still in its relative infancy, each of them offers their own particular challenges that must be conquered before the large‐scale clinical application.
Administration of fusion cytokines induces tumor regression and systemic antitumor immunity
Authors: Zhang Jinyu , Zhao Xuan
Published: May 2021

It is difficult to improve the curative effects of cancer immunotherapy on solid tumors. Cytokines, as powerful immune regulators, show potential in activating host antitumor immunity. We have previously found that the administration of certain cytokine combinations induces complete tumor clearance. Here, we constructed cognate fusion cytokines and evaluated their antitumor effects in various mouse tumor models. The in situ induction of the expression of the fusion cytokine IL12IL2GMCSF caused tumor eradication, including that of the tumors at advanced stages. An immune memory against unrelated syngeneic tumors was also elicited. Furthermore, flow cytometry analysis revealed that tumor‐infiltrating CD3+ cells were greatly increased in the treated tumors and were accompanied by an elevation of CD8+/CD4+ ratios. This fusion protein exhibited superior immune activating capability compared to that of cytokine mixtures, in the experiments done in vitro. We also induced tumor regression in various immunocompetent tumor models via intratumoral injection. To improve its translational potential for clinical application, a systemically‐administered immunocytokine, IL12IL2DiaNFGMCSF, was constructed by inserting a tumor‐targeting diabody in the fusion protein. This protein also displayed good immune stimulating activities in vitro. Intravenous infusion of IL12IL2DiaNFGMCSF induced tumor‐infiltrating immune cell alterations like IL12IL2GMCSF, with moderate serum IFNγ increment. Therapeutic effects were observed in the various tumor models after systemic administration of IL12IL2DiaNFGMCSF, but with slight toxicity. These results show the feasibility of developing a versatile cancer immunotherapy.
Intact Organization of Tactile Space Perception in Isolated Focal Dystonia
Authors: Mainka Tina , Azañón Elena , Zeuner Kirsten E. , Knutzen Arne , Bäumer Tobias , Neumann Wolf‐Julian , Borngräber Friederike , Kühn Andrea A. , Longo Matthew R. , Ganos Christos
Published: May 2021

Background

Systematic perceptual distortions of tactile space have been documented in healthy adults. In isolated focal dystonia impaired spatial somatosensory processing is suggested to be a central pathophysiological finding, but the structure of tactile space for different body parts has not been previously explored.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to assess tactile space organization with a novel behavioral paradigm of tactile distance perception in patients with isolated focal dystonia and controls.

Methods

Three groups of isolated focal dystonia patients (cervical dystonia, blepharospasm/Meige syndrome, focal hand dystonia) and controls estimated perceived distances between 2 touches across 8 orientations on the back of both hands and the forehead.

Results

Stimulus size judgments differed significantly across orientations in all groups replicating distortions of tactile space known for healthy individuals. There were no differences between groups in the behavioral parameters we assessed on the hands and forehead.

Conclusions

Tactile space organization is comparable between patients with isolated focal dystonia and healthy controls in dystonic and unaffected body parts. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Next‐generation sequence‐based preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disease resulting from maternal mosaicism
Authors: Hu Xiao , He Wen‐Bin , Zhang Shuo‐Ping , Luo Ke‐Li , Gong Fei , Dai Jing , Zhang Yi , Wan Zhen‐Xing , Li Wen , Yuan Shi‐Min , Tan Yue‐Qiu , Lu Guang‐Xiu , Lin Ge , Du Juan
Published: May 2021

Background

Mosaicism poses challenges for genetic counseling and preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT‐M). NGS‐based PGT‐M has been extensively used to prevent the transmission of monogenic defects, but it has not been evaluated in the application of PGT‐M resulting from mosaicism.

Methods

Four women suspected of mosaicism were confirmed by ultra‐deep sequencing. Blastocyst trophectoderm cells and polar bodies were collected for whole genome amplification, followed by pathogenic variants detection and haplotype analysis based on NGS. The embryos free of the monogenic disorders were transplantable.

Results

Ultra‐deep sequencing confirmed that the four women harbored somatic mosaic variants, with the proportion of variant cells at 1.12%, 9.0%, 27.60%, and 91.03%, respectively. A total of 25 blastocysts were biopsied and detected during four PGT cycles and 5 polar bodies were involved in one cycle additionally. For each couple, a wild‐type embryo was successfully transplanted and confirmed by prenatal diagnosis, resulting in the birth of four healthy infants.

Conclusions

Mosaic variants could be effectively evaluated via ultra‐deep sequencing, and could be prevented the transmission by PGT. Our work suggested that an NGS‐based PGT approach, involving pathogenic variants detection combined with haplotype analysis, is crucial for accurate PGT‐M with mosaicism.
A novel EDAR missense mutation identified by whole‐exome sequencing with non‐syndromic tooth agenesis in a Chinese family
Authors: Zhang Hongyu , Kong Xuanting , Ren Jiabao , Yuan Shuo , Liu Chunyan , Hou Yan , Liu Ye , Meng Lingqiang , Zhang Guozhong , Du Qingqing , Shen Wenjing
Published: May 2021

Background

Causative variants in genes of the EDA/EDAR/NF‐κB pathway, such as EDA and EDARADD, have been widely identified in patients with non‐syndromic tooth agenesis (NSTA). However, few cases of NSTA are due to ectodysplasin‐A receptor (EDAR) variants. In this study, we investigated NSTA‐associated variants in Chinese families.

Methods

Peripheral blood samples were collected from the family members of 24 individuals with NSTA for DNA extraction. The coding region of the EDA gene of the 24 probands was amplified by PCR and sequenced to investigate new variants. Whole‐exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing were then performed for probands without EDA variants detected by PCR.

Results

A novel missense variant EDAR c.338G>A (p.(Cys113Tyr)) was identified in one family. In addition, three known EDA variants (c.865C>T, c.866G>A, and c.1013C>T) were identified in three families. Genotype–phenotype correlation analysis of EDAR gene mutation showed that NSTA patients were most likely to lose the maxillary lateral incisors and the maxillary central incisors were the least affected. The phenotype of mutations at codon 289 of EDA in NSTA affected patients was characterized by lateral incisors loss, rarely affecting the maxillary first molars.

Conclusion

A novel EDAR missense variant c.338G>A (p.(Cys113Tyr)) was identified in a family with NSTA, extending the mutation spectrum of the EDAR gene. Genotype–phenotype correlation analyses of EDAR and EDA mutations could help to improve disease status prediction in NSTA families.
A study of a nonlocal problem with Robin boundary conditions arising from technology
Authors: Drosinou Ourania , Kavallaris Nikos I. , Nikolopoulos Christos V.
Published: May 2021

In the current work, we study a nonlocal parabolic problem with Robin boundary conditions. The problem arises from the study of an idealized electrically actuated MEMS (micro‐electro‐mechanical system) device, when the ends of the device are attached or pinned to a cantilever. Initially, the steady‐state problem is investigated estimates of the pull‐in voltage are derived. In particular, a Pohožaev's type identity is also obtained, which then facilitates the derivation of an estimate of the pull‐in voltage for radially symmetric N‐dimensional domains. Next a detailed study of the time‐dependent problem is delivered and global‐in‐time as well as quenching results are obtained for generic and radially symmetric domains. The current work closes with a numerical investigation of the presented nonlocal model via an adaptive numerical method. Various numerical experiments are presented, verifying the previously derived analytical results as well as providing new insights on the qualitative behavior of the studied nonlocal model.
Rectifier array based on efficient power recycling with extended ranges of input power and frequency
Authors: Lee Daju , Oh Juntaek
Published: May 2021

This article presents a rectifier array for wide ranges of input power and frequency. The rectifier array was configured using two sub‐rectifiers and a 3‐dB branch‐line coupler to recycle the reflected input power through impedance mismatch, thereby extending the input power range. The two‐section branch‐line coupler is merged with matching networks to improve the power conversion efficiency (PCE) and operating bandwidth while maintaining a wide input power range. For demonstration, the proposed rectifier array was designed and fabricated. It achieved a PCE higher than 50% within the input power range of 14–33 dBm. The measured peak PCE remained above 50% within a wide frequency range of 1.5–2.7 GHz.
Innovative procedure for 3D printing of hybrid silicon carbide/carbon fiber nanocomposites
Authors: Al‐Ajrash Saja M. Nabat , Browning Charles , Eckerle Rose , Cao Li
Published: May 2021

A novel route to fabricating hybrid ceramic matrix composites has been developed. The fabrication is based on the unique combination of additive manufacturing (AM), a preceramic polymer, and a chopped carbon fiber precursor. After introducing the photoinitiator to the preceramic polymer formulation, a photosensitive resin was introduced. The resulting resin was loaded with distinct weight percentages of stabilized polyacrylonitrile nanofiber—the carbon fiber precursor. These formulations were 3D printed, cured, and converted to ceramic phases using a pyrolysis cycle. The end objective of the pyrolysis cycle is the conversion of the polycarbosilane resin into a silicon carbide matrix and the transformation of the PAN polymer into reinforcing carbon nanofibers within one cycle. The results of this work showed that ceramic matrix composite components can be successfully fabricated using a suitable combination of 3D printing, resin formulation, and processing cycle. The pyrolyzed ceramic hybrid composite was fully dense with nearly linear shrinkage and a shiny, smooth surface. Approximately 60% retained weight after pyrolysis to 1350°C was confirmed by thermogravimetric analysis. In terms of crystallography, the ceramic matrix composite displayed three coexisting phases including silicon carbide, silicon oxycarbide, and turbostratic carbon. The results showed this combination of material and processes has a high potential for fabricating hybrid composites with high‐temperature performance and improved mechanical properties combined with complex geometries.
Fabrication of nitrocellulose‐based nanoenergetic composites, study on its structure, thermal decomposition kinetics, mechanism, and sensitivity
Authors: Chen Ling , Liu Shishuo , Cao Xinfu , Gao Jianbing , Wang Yingbo , Qin Yang , Zhang Yang , Zhang Jianwei , Jin Guorui , Wang Moru , Liu Jie , He Weidong
Published: May 2021

In order to investigate the thermal decomposition kinetics and mechanism of nitrocellulose (NC) based nitramine explosives nanocomposite energetic materials, this work prepares NC/RDX (cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine), NC/HMX (cyclotetramethylenetetranitramine), and NC/CL‐20 (hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane) composites by a combined sol‐gel and the freeze‐drying technology. The structure is systematically investigated and the results reveal that the explosive particles are dispersed, filled, or embedded homogenously in the gel matrix of NC, thereby restricting the crystal growth of RDX, HMX, CL‐20 particles to coarse and achieving submicron/nanometer. The thermal analysis of composites exhibits much lower peak temperature compared with raw explosive crystal, furthermore, the activation energy (Ea) of composites is also lower than that of both NC and explosives. Hence, the unique structure of NC gel matrix embedded explosives inside demonstrated different mechanism of decomposition. Concretely, the rupture of the H‐NCO = O bond in the cross‐linked structure is detected firstly, subsequently, the macromolecular chains’ scission site of gel firstly occurs at ‐C‐O‐C‐ in the ring, and then the scission of ‐NO2 (from NC or explosive crystals) bonds happened. Hence, this study may provide promising fabrication strategy and basic theory for the application of NC‐based nanocomposite energetics in high‐energy propellants and explosives.
Health literacy and patient activation among adults with chronic diseases in Singapore: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Huang Laura Yuqi , Lin Yongxing Patrick , Glass George Frederick , Chan Ee‐Yuee
Published: May 2021

Aims

Increased patient activation levels can improve health outcomes. Hence, this study aims to examine the relationships between sociodemographic variables and domain‐specific health literacies with patient activation.

Design

A cross‐sectional design.

Methods

200 outpatient adults with chronic diseases completed a survey that assessed their domain‐specific health literacy and patient activation levels. Univariate and multivariate analysis of the variables were conducted on patient activation with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Multiple linear regression analyses observed a positive linear relationship between the following domain‐specific health literacy variables—“actively manage my health” (p < .0001, 95% CI: 0.89–2.29), “understanding health information” (p = .008, 95% CI: 0.28–1.85), and “finding good health information” (p = .02, 95% CI 0.13–1.51) with patient activation. The other sociodemographic and clinical variables were not statistically significant. Increased focus from healthcare professionals is needed on helping patients better find and understand health information and encouraging them to actively manage their health; elements which would raise their activation levels.
Remote delivery of field experiences in soil sciences
Authors: Aleman Ruben , Duball Chelsea , Schwyter Anna , Vaughan Karen
Published: May 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic placed unprecedented pressure on students and educators around the world, calling for a major shift in the delivery of educational lessons to implement remote learning opportunities in place of in‐person classes. The shift to remote learning practices was particularly difficult for courses, such as pedology, that rely heavily on place‐based or active learning strategies. In this study, the authors investigate student response to remote delivery of field experiences during the COVID‐19 pandemic in an upper division pedology course that is typically taught in‐person and outdoors. Five field practicums were delivered remotely throughout the semester, for which students were provided with a take‐home field kit, soils from four profiles, and access to online resources needed to complete each assignment. Student perceptions on the efficacy of, value of, and engagement with remote delivery were assessed via pre‐ and post‐surveys. Survey responses suggest that students’ level of experience improved over the course of the semester and perceptions on the efficacy of, value of, and engagement with remote learning showed positive improvement. Although the majority of students were grateful for these alternative experiences, responses also expressed that remote delivery options are not favored over in‐person field experiences. Remote delivery of field experiences also presents a potential solution to the limits in accessibility inherent to field‐based courses.
Association of Omental Adipocyte Hypertrophy and Fibrosis with Human Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Liu Fangcen , He Jielei , Liu Boxun , Zhang Pengzi , Wang Hongdong , Sun Xitai , Chu Xuehui , Guan Wenxian , Feng Wenhuan , Bi Yan , Zhu Dalong
Published: May 2021

Objective

Morphological alterations including adipocyte hypertrophy and fibrosis deposition are important surrogate markers of visceral adipose tissue function, but the relationships between these morphological changes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and impaired insulin sensitivity are poorly defined.

Methods

Omental adipose tissue was obtained from 66 individuals with obesity but without T2DM (OB group), 93 individuals with both obesity and T2DM (T2DM group), and 15 individuals with normal BMI and normal glucose tolerance (NGT group). Adipocyte diameter and volume were measured through pathological section analysis. Pericellular and perilobular fibrosis was determined through picrosirius red staining and immunochemistry, while fibrosis‐related genes were tested through gene expression and hydroxyproline content.

Results

Compared with the NGT and OB groups, individuals from the T2DM group displayed increased adipocyte diameter and volume levels. Increased adipocyte size (diameter and volume) was positively associated with hyperglycemia and insulin resistance and inversely correlated with insulin sensitivity (using the Matsuda whole‐body insulin sensitivity index assessment of insulin sensitivity) and β‐cell function (disposition index 30 and disposition index 120). The fibrosis levels of the OB group were the highest out of the three groups, whereas the fibrosis levels of T2DM individuals were lower than the OB group but higher than the NGT group. Although fibrosis was negatively correlated with T2DM, fibrosis deposition was not remarkably associated with impaired systemic insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.

Conclusions

Compared with fibrosis deposition, adipocyte hypertrophy is more closely associated with T2DM and impaired systemic insulin sensitivity.
Measuring ketone bodies for the monitoring of pathologic and therapeutic ketosis
Authors: Anderson Joseph C. , Mattar Samer G. , Greenway Frank L. , Lindquist Richard J.
Published: May 2021

Background

The ketone bodies β‐hydroxybutyrate (BOHB) and acetone are generated as a byproduct of the fat metabolism process. In healthy individuals, ketone body levels are ∼0.1 mM for BOHB and ∼1 part per million for breath acetone (BrAce). These levels can increase dramatically as a consequence of a disease process or when used therapeutically for disease treatment. For example, increased ketone body concentration during weight loss is an indication of elevated fat metabolism. Ketone body measurement is relatively inexpensive and can provide metabolic insights to help guide disease management and optimize weight loss.

Methods

This review of the literature provides metabolic mechanisms and typical concentration ranges of ketone bodies, which can give new insights into these conditions and rationale for measuring ketone bodies.

Results

Diseases such as heart failure and ketoacidosis can affect caloric intake and macronutrient management, which can elevate BOHB 30‐fold and BrAce 1000‐fold. Other diseases associated with obesity, such as brain dysfunction, cancer, and diabetes, may cause dysfunction because of an inability to use glucose, excessive reliance on glucose, or poor insulin signaling. Elevating ketone body concentrations (e.g., nutritional ketosis) may improve these conditions by forcing utilization of ketone bodies, in place of glucose, for fuel. During weight loss, monitoring ketone body concentration can demonstrate program compliance and can be used to optimize the weight‐loss plan.

Conclusions

The role of ketone bodies in states of pathologic and therapeutic ketosis indicates that accurate measurement and monitoring of BOHB or BrAce will likely improve disease management. Bariatric surgery is examined as a case study for monitoring both types of ketosis.
Using twin screw extrusion reaction (TSER) to produce thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU): Tunable, stoichiometric and eco‐friendly
Authors: Cong Kun , He Jiyu , Yang Rongjie
Published: May 2021

TPU and flame‐retardant TPU (FR‐TPU) were prepared through a polyaddition reaction with polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG) and 4,4′‐methylene‐bisphenyl‐isocyanate (MDI) by reactive extruding. 1,4‐Butanediol (BDO) and diethyl bis(2‐hydroxyethyl) amino methyl phosphonate (DBAMP) were used as the chain extender in different ratios, respectively, to obtain TPU and flame‐retardant TPU (FR‐TPU)with adjusted molecular weight and mechanical properties. The resulting TPU and FR‐TPU were characterized by FTIR, DSC, TGA, and NMR. A kinetic model based on the data from extrusion process was used to depict the polymerization of TPU. These reactions carried out without any solvent and the residual water showed that the polymerization with BDO could be achieved in 20 minutes, instead, that with DBAMP in 55 minutes while with a similar molecular weight. These results point out that Twin Screw Extrusion Reaction (TSER) is a suitable and convenient way to produce a variety of polymers.
Einstein wäre doppelt verblüfft
Authors: Schnabel Roman
Published: May 2021

Quantenkorrelationen sind theoretisch vollständig beschrieben und experimentell mit nicht allzu großem Aufwand herstellbar. Ihre Physik ist aber bis heute nicht plausibel. Ungeachtet dessen wird Laserlicht mit quantenkorrelierter – gequetschter – Photonenstatistik seit einigen Jahren als Technologie genutzt. Dieses ist eine bemerkenswerte Situation in der Physik. Bisher wird das Prinzip exklusiv zur Verbesserung der Messempfindlichkeit von Gravitationswellen‐Observatorien eingesetzt. Potenzial gibt es aber auch in Industrie und Medizin.
30 Jahre ASDEX Upgrade
Authors: Kallenbach Arne
Published: May 2021

Der Garchinger Tokamak ASDEX Upgrade ging vor dreißig Jahren in Betrieb. Seither wurde die Anlage, insbesondere ihre Gefäßeinbauten, Plasma‐Heizsysteme und Diagnostiken, beständig erweitert und verbessert. Mit dem Wechsel von einer mit Graphit zu einer mit Wolfram bedeckten Gefäßwand mussten viele Plasmaszenarien überarbeitet werden. Hierbei wurde auch die Kühlung des Divertorplasmas durch zusätzlich eingebrachte Strahlungsverluste entwickelt, die auf ein künftiges Tokamak‐Fusionskraftwerk übertragen werden kann. In vielen Belangen kann ASDEX Upgrade als „Blaupause“ eines solchen Tokamak‐Fusionskraftwerks angesehen werden. Eine große Anzahl von Musterentladungen erlauben zusammen mit neu entwickelten Computercodes verlässliche Vorhersagen für ein Kraftwerk.
Vortrieb ohne Schraube
Authors: Schlichting Hans Joachim , Schlichting Jan
Published: May 2021

Beim magneto‐hydrodynamischen Antrieb wechselwirkt ein Magnet mit dem Magnetfeld eines elektrischen Stroms. Dieser fließt durch eine leitfähige Flüssigkeit und setzt sie in Bewegung. Ihr dadurch entstehender Rückstoß wird genutzt, um ein in ihr schwimmendes Boot anzutreiben. Ein Modell dieses Antriebs lässt sich leicht herstellen.
Raum‐Zeit‐Kristall im Video
Authors: Träger Nick , Gräfe Joachim
Published: May 2021

In den letzten Jahren konnte die Existenz von Raum‐Zeit‐Kristallen bewiesen werden. Diese Experimente waren jedoch auf extrem kleine Quantensysteme bei ultrakalten Temperaturen beschränkt. Nun ist es mit Hilfe eines Rasterröntgenmikroskops an der Synchrotronquelle BESSY II gelungen, eine raum‐zeit‐kristalline Struktur in einem mikrometer‐großen magnetischen Dünnfilm zu generieren und zu filmen.
Quantensysteme lernen gemeinsames Rechnen
Authors: Daiss Severin , Rempe Gerhard
Published: May 2021

Quantencomputer besitzen heute erst wenige Qubits in einzelnen Aufbauten. Jetzt ist es gelungen, ein Quantengatter zwischen zwei Qubits in sechzig Metern Entfernung zu realisieren: ein Prototyp eines verteilt rechnenden Quantencomputers.
Ein Orakel ohne Tentakel
Authors: Heuer Andreas
Published: May 2021

Die statistische Modellierung der Fußball‐Europameisterschaft sagt Belgien die besten Titelchancen voraus.
Radioaktive Emission von Protonen
Authors: Hofmann Sigurd
Published: May 2021

Vor 50 Jahren wurde erstmals eine neue Zerfallsart von Atomkernen nachgewiesen: die radioaktive Emission von Protonen. Was wissen wir heute über die Stabilität von Atomkernen?
Data Scientist und Grobmotoriker
Authors: Loos Andreas
Published: May 2021

In den Wirren einer Revolution wächst er heran, doch der gesellschaftliche Umbruch ermöglicht auch einem Bürgerkind wie ihm eine akademische Karriere. Diese verläuft steil und außerordentlich fruchtbar.
Max Brod – Tycho Brahes Weg zu Gott
Authors: Heydenreich Aura
Published: May 2021

Der Roman ist der astronomischen Wissenschaftskultur gewidmet, die sich um 1600 zu entfalten beginnt, sowie dem ambivalenten Verhältnis ihrer Protagonisten: Tycho Brahe und Johannes Kepler.
Longitudinal proteomic profiling provides insights into host response and proteome dynamics in COVID‐19 progression
Authors: Lee Jee‐Soo , Han Dohyun , Kim So Yeon , Hong Ki Ho , Jang Myoung‐jin , Kim Man Jin , Kim Young‐gon , Park Jae Hyeon , Cho Sung Im , Park Wan Beom , Lee Kyung Bok , Shin Ho Seob , Oh Hyeon Sae , Kim Taek Soo , Park Sung Sup , Seong Moon‐Woo
Published: May 2021

In managing patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), early identification of those at high risk and real‐time monitoring of disease progression to severe COVID‐19 is a major challenge. We aimed to identify potential early prognostic protein markers and to expand understanding of proteome dynamics during clinical progression of the disease. We performed in‐depth proteome profiling on 137 sera, longitudinally collected from 25 patients with COVID‐19 (non‐severe patients, n = 13; patients who progressed to severe COVID‐19, n = 12). We identified 11 potential biomarkers, including the novel markers IGLV3‐19 and BNC2, as early potential prognostic indicators of severe COVID‐19. These potential biomarkers are mainly involved in biological processes associated with humoral immune response, interferon signalling, acute phase response, lipid metabolism, and platelet degranulation. We further revealed that the longitudinal changes of 40 proteins persistently increased or decreased as the disease progressed to severe COVID‐19. These 40 potential biomarkers could effectively reflect the clinical progression of the disease. Our findings provide some new insights into host response to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, which are valuable for understanding of COVID‐19 disease progression. This study also identified potential biomarkers that could be further validated, which may support better predicting and monitoring progression to severe COVID‐19.
What is pain: Are cognitive and social features core components?
Authors: Craig Kenneth D. , MacKenzie Nicole E.
Published: May 2021

Pain is a universal experience, but it has been challenging to adequately define. The revised definition of pain recently published by the International Association for the Study of Pain addressed important shortcomings of the previous version; however, it remains narrow in its focus on sensory and emotional features of pain, failing to capture the substantial roles of cognitive and social core components of the experience and their importance to advances in pain management. This paper reviews evidence and theoretical models for the significant role social and cognitive factors play in pain experience and we argue that without explicit recognition of these core components in the definition, significant nuances are lost at a cost to understanding and clinical management of pain. A focus on sensory and emotional features perpetuates biomedical interventions and research, whereas recognition of cognitive and social features supports a multidimensional model of pain, advances in interdisciplinary care, and the benefits of cognitive behavioral therapy and self‐management interventions. We also explore the six Key Notes that accompany the new definition of pain, discuss their application to the understanding of pain in childhood, and, in doing so, further explore social and cognitive implications. Considerations are also described for assessment and treatment of pain in pediatric populations.
High pesticide inhalation exposure from multiple spraying sources amongst applicators in Eswatini, Southern Africa
Authors: Msibi Sithembiso S , Chen Chung‐Yu , Chang Cheng‐Ping , Chen Chiou‐Jong , Chiang Su‐Yin , Wu Kuen‐Yuh
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Serious concerns surround the potential risks resulting from inhalation exposure to pesticides amongst agricultural workers when mixing and applying these compounds. In Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland), Southern Africa, pesticides are widely used to improve the yield and quality of sugar cane production, the largest contributor to the country's economy. We assessed applicators' inhalation exposures from multiple spraying sources to four commonly used herbicides in Eswatini.

RESULTS

Analysis of 76 personal air samples by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) revealed four pesticides: ametryn, atrazine, pendimethalin and 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, with mean concentrations of 36.91, 21.57, 31.05 and 0.89 μg m–3, respectively. These inhalation exposures are much higher than those recorded in previous similar studies.

CONCLUSION

Although all applicators in this study used personal protective equipment (PPE), they nevertheless recorded high levels of inhalation exposure to commonly used pesticides. Our findings suggest that in addition to observing mandated regular changing and cleaning practices with PPE for ultimate personal protection, pesticide applicators should distance themselves from each other when spraying to effectively reduce their exposure to pesticides from multiple spraying sources. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal spraying distance between pesticide applicators. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Performance of two species of whiteflies is unaffected by glucosinolate profile in Brassica plants
Authors: Li Jie , Qian Hong‐Mei , Pan Li‐Long , Wang Qiao‐Mei , Liu Shu‐Sheng
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

While plant glucosinolates are known to impart resistance to many insects, their role in the interactions between plants and many phloem‐feeding insects such as whiteflies are poorly understood. The whitefly Bemisia tabaci complex comprises many cryptic species that differ in the ability to utilize Brassica plants. However, whether Brassica plants‐specific traits such as glucosinolates determine differences of whiteflies in colonizing Brassica plants remains in question.

RESULTS

We first observed performance of two whitefly species MEAM1 and Asia II 3, which differ obviously in their ability to colonize Brassica plants, on four cultivars of three Brassica species that vary in glucosinolate profile. We found that the life history characteristics of each of the two whitefly species seems to be only marginally affected by cultivar. We next used wild‐type Arabidopsis plants and mutants defective in glucosinolate biosynthesis or hydrolysis to explore the effects of glucosinolates on the whitefly. We found that fecundity and development of immature stages of neither of the two whitefly species differ significantly between wild‐type and mutants.

CONCLUSION

The data suggest that glucosinolates may have little effect on the oviposition by adults and the survival and development of immature stages of MEAM1 and Asia II 3 whiteflies. The marked differences in colonizing Brassica crops between the two whitefly species are likely due to plant traits other than glucosinolates. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Assessing and communicating heterogeneity of treatment effects for patient subpopulations: Keynote and panel discussion on communicating heterogeneous treatment effects across populations
Authors: Heyward James , Lolic Milena , Spong Catherine , Atkins David , Pennello Gene , Varadhan Ravi
Published: May 2021

How do we communicate nuanced regulatory information to different audiences, recognizing that the consumer audience is very different from the physician audience? In particular, how do we communicate the heterogeneity of treatment effects ‐ the potential differences in treatment effects based on sex, race, and age? That is a fundamental question at the heart of this panel discussion. Each panelist addressed a specific “challenge question” during their 5‐minute presentation, and the list of questions is provided. The presentations were followed by a question and answer session with members of the audience and the panelists.