bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Traits and ecological space availability predict avian densities at the country scale of the Czech Republic
Authors: Hořák David , Rivas‐Salvador Javier , Farkač Jan , Reif Jiří
Published: July 2022

Species' geographical distributions and abundances are a central focus of current ecological research. Although multiple studies have been conducted on their elucidation, some important information is still missing. One of them is the knowledge of ecological traits of species responsible for the population density variations across geographical (i.e., total physical area) and ecological spaces (i.e., suitable habitat area). This is crucial for understanding how ecological specialization shapes the geographical distribution of species, and provides key knowledge about the sensitivity of species to current environmental challenges. Here, we precisely describe habitat availability for individual species using fine‐scale field data collected across the entire Czech Republic. In the next step, we used this information to test the relationships between bird traits and country‐scale estimates of population densities assessed in both geographical and ecological spaces. We did not find any effect of habitat specialization on avian density in geographical space. But when we recalculated densities for ecological space available, we found a positive correlation with habitat specialization. Specialists occur at higher densities in suitable habitats. Moreover, birds with arboreal and hole‐nesting strategies showed higher densities in both geographical and ecological spaces. However, we found no significant effects of morphological (body mass and structural body size) and reproductive (position along the slow–fast life‐history continuum) traits on avian densities in either geographical or ecological space. Our findings suggest that ecological space availability is a strong determinant of avian abundance and highlight the importance of precise knowledge of species‐specific habitat requirements. Revival of this classical but challenging ecological topic of habitat‐specific densities is needed for both proper understanding of pure ecological issues and practical steps in the conservation of nature.
Selective N‐Deacetylation and Functionalization of Aminosugars
Authors: Moons Sam J. , Robertson Alexander D. , Boltje Thomas J.
Published: July 2022

N‐Acetyl groups are abundant functional groups found in a variety of biomolecules including aminosugars. N‐Acetyl groups are chemically stable and harsh conditions are often needed to remove them. Herein, we report a mild and efficient protocol to remove N‐acetyl groups in the presence of esters and carbamates and functionalize the resulting amine in a one‐pot manner.
Developments in the Synthesis of Hasubanan Alkaloids
Authors: Ikonnikova Viktoria A. , Baranov Mikhail S. , Mikhaylov Andrey A.
Published: July 2022

This review critically summarized the synthesis of hasubanan alkaloids with the focus on construction of hasubanan core. Historical and recent reports are systemized based on the strategic bonds formation and are given in comparison. Special accents are made on the achievements in collective syntheses, asymmetric syntheses, and biomimetic approaches. Based on the summarized data potential perspectives are highlighted.
Fabrication of Multi‐pore Structure Cu, N‐codoped Porous Carbon‐based Catalyst and its Oxygen Reduction Reaction Catalytic Performance for Microbial Fuel Cell
Authors: Su Chang , Wang Wenyi , Jiang Bolong , Zhang Mei , Wang Yuanyuan , Wang Huan , Song Hua
Published: July 2022

The development of a non‐noble metal cathode ORR catalyst with low cost, high activity and high stability has become an inevitable trend in MFC. The purpose of this study is to develop an efficient and stable Cu, N‐codoped porous carbons catalysts with multi‐pore structure for MFC. Herein, Cu, N‐codoped porous carbons materials (Cu−NC−T) with high N content and multi‐pore structure were successfully developed by co‐pyrolysis with MOF‐199 and melamine. By contrast, Cu‐doped porous carbon (Cu−C−T) without melamine was synthesized using MOF‐199 as template. The results showed that Cu−NC−T possessed a rough octahedral crystal with a unique multi‐mesopore structure with pore centers of 3.4 nm and 11.2 nm, respectively. Owing to high N content, abundantly exposed Cu−Nx active sites and the multi‐pore structure, Cu−NC−800 had a pronounced electrochemical ORR activity in neutral solution (onset potential and limiting current density were 0.161 V and −6.256 mA ⋅ cm−2), which were slightly lower than 20 wt % Pt/C (0.189 V and −6.479 mA ⋅ cm−2). Moreover, the MFC with Cu−NC−800 showed a power density of 662.8±3.6 mW ⋅ m−2, which was higher than that of Cu−C−800 (425.7±3.9 mW ⋅ m−2) and was slightly lower than that 20 wt % Pt/C (815.0±6.2 mW ⋅ m−2). The output voltage of MFC with Cu−NC−T had no obvious decreasing trend in 30 days, demonstrating that the Cu−NC−T had great stability.
A novel graph search and machine learning method to detect and locate high impedance fault zone in distribution system
Authors: Joga S. Ramana Kumar , Sinha Pampa , Maharana Manoj Kumar
Published: July 2022

High impedance fault (HIF) is difficult to detect by conventional overcurrent protection relays due to the lower fault current values, which are normally lower than the normal current. A fast and reliable algorithm is required to detect this type of fault. This paper proposes a novel method for detecting the location of HIF fault zone in a distribution system by using a novel graph theory‐based zone detection technique along with a Random Search Multilevel Support Vector Machine (RSMSVM) algorithm to classify the faulted zone. Due to shift in‐variance property of “Dual Tree Complex Wavelet Transform (DTCWT),” which has been used, in this paper, to decompose the voltage/current waveform to collect the signature of the signals and feed to the optimized RSMSVM model for classifying fault zone. The proposed method is evaluated on the IEEE 33‐bus system and also IEEE 39 bus test system under normal and noisy conditions. The proposed method is also evaluated for distribution network with the integration of distributed generation.
Basin effect quantitation of four deep basins in Japan to explain the gap between empirical and numerical basin‐depth effect models
Authors: Xie Zhinan , Ma Wanjun
Published: July 2022

To incorporate basin effects into seismic hazard assessment of urban areas and infrastructure, basin‐depth effect models that are the dependence of basin amplification factor on basin depth have been derived via numerical and empirical approaches. However, commonly observed quantitative and qualitative differences between numerical and empirical models remain unresolved. In particular, empirical models tend to predict smaller basin amplification factors. In this study, a modified empirical approach from Choi et al. was applied to the derivation of basin‐depth effect models for four deep basins in Japan using a database consisting of 71MJ > 6 (Mw > 5.7) earthquakes and 13,562 records from strong‐motion seismograph networks (K‐NET and KiK‐net). The obtained basin‐depth models vary among basins and crustal‐subduction earthquake pairs, which confirms the recent trend of accounting for regional‐seismotectonic basin amplification in seismic hazard analysis. The basin amplification observed for crustal earthquakes is generally larger than that for subduction earthquakes. Moreover, the differences between the numerical and empirical models can be explained by changing the options of basin or outside‐basin stations for computing the inter‐event residuals. These results bridge a knowledge gap in seismic hazard analysis between ground‐motion prediction equations and those using large‐scale seismic wave simulations, which are now the main tools for regions lacking seismic records.
Pan‐Africanism vs. single‐origin of Homo sapiens: Putting the debate in the light of evolutionary biology
Authors: Meneganzin Andra , Pievani Telmo , Manzi Giorgio
Published: July 2022

The scenario of Homo sapiens origin/s within Africa has become increasingly complex, with a pan‐African perspective currently challenging the long‐established single‐origin hypothesis. In this paper, we review the lines of evidence employed in support of each model, highlighting inferential limitations and possible terminological misunderstandings. We argue that the metapopulation scenario envisaged by pan‐African proponents well describes a mosaic diversification among late Middle Pleistocene groups. However, this does not rule out a major contribution that emerged from a single population where crucial derived features—notably, a globular braincase—appeared as the result of a punctuated, cladogenetic event. Thus, we suggest that a synthesis is possible and propose a scenario that, in our view, better reconciles with consolidated expectations in evolutionary theory. These indicate cladogenesis in allopatry as an ordinary pattern for the origin of a new species, particularly during phases of marked climatic and environmental instability.
Prevalence of discourse on public engagement with science in ecology literature
Authors: Davis Cathlyn , Weber Caitlin , Nadkarni Nalini M
Published: July 2022

Scientists are increasingly encouraged to engage with the public about science. Key to normalizing and advancing “public engagement with science” (PES) is the dissemination of such activities within the science literature. We developed a classification scheme to assess the extent and type of PES articles in ecology‐themed scholarly journals. Our review indicated that although many ecologists interact with the public and intend to maintain this interaction, only a small minority publish about PES efforts, perspectives, strategies, successes, and challenges in ecology journals regularly read by their peers. We suggest that publication of PES in disciplinary journals offers a means of both providing professional credit and improving engagement practices. Thus, we encourage ecologists to write articles about their PES efforts, urge editors and reviewers to be responsive to such submissions, and recommend more consistent use of common PES keywords in science articles.
Over half of threatened species require targeted recovery actions to avert human‐induced extinction
Authors: Bolam Friederike C , Ahumada Jorge , Akçakaya H Reşit , Brooks Thomas M , Elliott Wendy , Hoban Sean , Mair Louise , Mallon David , McGowan Philip JK , Raimondo Domitilla , Rodríguez Jon Paul , Roe Dilys , Seddon Mary B , Shen Xiaoli , Stuart Simon N , Watson James EM , Butchart Stuart HM
Published: July 2022

Averting human‐induced extinctions will require strong policy commitments that comprehensively address threats to species. A new Global Biodiversity Framework is currently being negotiated by the world’s governments through the Convention on Biological Diversity. Here we explored how the suggested targets in this framework could contribute to reducing threats to threatened vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants, and assessed the importance of a proposed target to implement recovery actions for threatened species. Although many of the targets benefit species, we found that extinction risk for over half (57%) of threatened species would not be reduced sufficiently without a target promoting recovery actions, including ex situ conservation, reintroductions, and other species‐specific interventions. A median of 54 threatened species per country require such actions, and most countries of the world hold such species. Preventing future human‐induced extinctions requires policy commitments to implement targeted recovery actions for threatened species in addition to broader efforts to mitigate threats, underpinned by transformative change.
Identification of the promising mango (Mangifera indica L.) genotypes based on morphological and pomological characters
Authors: Khadivi Ali , Mirheidari Farhad , Saeidifar Abdolvahid , Moradi Younes
Published: July 2022

Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is one of the choicest fruit crops of the tropical and subtropical regions in the world. Morphological and pomological diversity of 18 mango (M. indica) genotypes (with 3–10 replications for each genotype, 81 trees in total) was evaluated from four areas of Sistan‐va‐Baluchestan province, Iran. There were significant differences among the genotypes investigated based on the traits recorded. Harvest date ranged from late May to early August. Fruit skin ground color was highly variable, including light green, green, light yellow, yellow, and orange. The values of fruit dimensions‐related characters were as follows: fruit length: 45.67–142.21 mm, fruit diameter: 37.51–94.13 mm, and fruit weight: 44.58–469.42 g. Peel and pulp percentages ranged from 65.24 to 92.45%. The quantity of fiber on stone was intermediate in most of the genotypes. Fruit weight showed positive standardized beta‐coefficient (β) values with stone weight (β = 0.66, p < .00) and pulp and skin content (β = 0.44, p < .00). Thus, these two key variables are the main traits accounting for fruit weight, and they should be considered together in breeding programs. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed 21 components explaining 85.44% of the total variance, and the first principal component (PC1) was positively correlated with fruit‐related traits. A dendrogram created using Euclidean distances and the Ward's method revealed two main clusters. High dissimilarity levels among the studied genotypes showed high variability in the germplasm. Based on the traits related to fruit quality, seven genotypes, including GulabKhas, Chaunsa, Ghalami, Soldan, Porteghali, KalmiBozorg, and Jangal, were superior and are recommended to use for cultivation in commercial orchards for area‐specific and in breeding programs.
Incorporate temporal topology in a deep‐time knowledge base to facilitate data‐driven discovery in geoscience
Authors: Ma Chao , Morrison Shaunna M. , Muscente A. Drew , Wang Chengbin , Ma Xiaogang
Published: July 2022

Data‐driven discovery in geoscience requires an enormous amount of FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable) data derived from a multitude of sources. Many geology resources include data based on the geologic time scale, a system of dating that relates layers of rock (strata) to times in Earth history. The terminology of this geologic time scale, including the names of the strata and time intervals, is heterogeneous across data resources, hindering effective and efficient data integration. To address that issue, we created a deep‐time knowledge base that consists of knowledge graphs correlating international and regional geologic time scales, an online service of the knowledge graphs, and an R package to access the service. The knowledge base uses temporal topology to enable comparison and reasoning between various intervals and points in the geologic time scale. This work unifies and allows the querying of age‐related geologic information across the entirety of Earth history, resulting in a platform from which researchers can address complex deep‐time questions spanning numerous types of data and fields of study.
Adipose lipolysis is important for ethanol to induce fatty liver in the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism murine model of chronic and binge ethanol feeding
Authors: Mathur Mallika , Yeh Yu‐Te , Arya Rakesh K. , Jiang Long , Pornour Majid , Chen Weiping , Ma Yinyan , Gao Bin , He Ling , Ying Zhekang , Xue Bingzhong , Shi Hang , Choi Youngshim , Yu Liqing
Published: July 2022

Background and Aims:

Alcohol‐associated liver disease (ALD) pathologies include steatosis, inflammation, and injury, which may progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and cancer. The liver receives ~60% of fatty acids from adipose tissue triglyceride hydrolysis, but the role of this lipolytic pathway in ALD development has not been directly examined in any genetic animal models with selective inactivation of adipose lipolysis.

Approach and Results:

Using adipose‐specific comparative gene identification‐58 (CGI‐58) knockout (FAT‐KO) mice, a model of impaired adipose lipolysis, we show that mice deficient in adipose lipolysis are almost completely protected against ethanol‐induced hepatic steatosis and lipid peroxidation when subjected to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism chronic and binge ethanol feeding model. This is unlikely due to reduced lipid synthesis because this regimen of ethanol feeding down‐regulated hepatic expression of lipogenic genes similarly in both genotypes. In the pair‐fed group, FAT‐KO relative to control mice displayed increased hepatocyte injury, neutrophil infiltration, and activation of the transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in the liver; and none of these were exacerbated by ethanol feeding. Activation of STAT3 is associated with a marked increase in hepatic leptin receptor mRNA expression and adipose inflammatory cell infiltration.

Conclusions:

Our findings establish a critical role of adipose lipolysis in driving hepatic steatosis and oxidative stress during ALD development.
Testing prosodic development with the Headturn Preference Procedure: A test‐retest reliability study
Authors: Marimon Mireia , Höhle Barbara
Published: July 2022

The Headturn Preference Procedure (HPP) is widely used in infant research. Previous studies have shown that speech perception measures obtained with HPP are related to later language skills which may make them a potential instrument for an early detection of developmental language risks. The present study assessed the reliability and stability of this measure by testing 6‐month‐old German‐learning infants with the HPP in three sessions each separated by 1 week. Significant correlations were found between the overall looking times across test sessions but not between the differences in looking times for different test conditions. The results underline limitations but also the potential of using early speech perception measures as diagnostic tools.
Infections in hematologic malignancy patients treated by CD19 chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy
Authors: Zhou Linghui , Tan Su Yin Elaine , Zhao Houli , Ding Shuyi , Hu Yongxian , Huang He
Published: July 2022

Increasing use of chimeric antigen receptor‐T (CAR‐T) cell therapy has significantly improved the survival of hematologic malignancy patients, but CAR‐T cell treatment is also associated with increased risk of infection. Hence, understanding the characteristics of infection may improve disease prognosis. The data of post‐CAR‐T therapy infections were obtained from the VigiBase database. We identified a total of 554 infection reports (1001 infection events) involving CAR‐T therapy among the 3007 case reports. Infections occurred in 18.42% of cases reported in VigiBase with CAR‐T therapy and were most frequently occurred during the first month. Among cases reported in VigiBase, most of the infections were controllable, and only 4.4% of the cases were fatal. Bacteria (60.7%) and respiratory tract infection (50.9%) were the most common infection types. Compared with axicabtagene ciloleucel, infection in patients receiving tisagenlecleucel‐T therapy had a higher infection risk (ROR = 1.76; 95% CI = 1.46–2.12, p < 0.001). Meanwhile, fungus infection and mixed infection had poorer prognoses than virus infection. Concerning the disease prognoses, fungal and mixed infection should be given more attention, and extensive prospective studies are much needed to verify these findings.
Deprescribing anticholinergics in primary care older adults: Experience from two models and impact on a continuous measure of exposure
Authors: Campbell Noll L. , Pitts Christopher , Corvari Claire , Kaehr Ellen , Alamer Khalid , Chand Parveen , Nanagas Kristine , Callahan Christopher M. , Boustani Malaz A.
Published: July 2022

Background

Deprescribing interventions delivered through the electronic medical record have not significantly reduced the use of high‐risk anticholinergics in prior trials. Pharmacists have been identified as ideal practitioners to conduct deprescribing; however, little experience beyond collaborative consult models has been published.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of two pilot pharmacist‐based advanced practice models nested within primary care.

Methods

Pilot studies of a collaborative clinic‐based pharmacist deprescribing intervention and a telephone‐based pharmacist deprescribing intervention were conducted. Patients receiving the clinic‐based pharmacy model were aged 55 years and older and referred for deprescribing at a specialty clinic. Patients receiving the telephone‐based pharmacy model were aged 65 years and older and called by a clinical pharmacist for deprescribing without referral. Deprescribing was defined as a discontinuation or dose reduction reported either in clinical records or through self‐reporting.

Results

The 18 patients receiving clinic‐based deprescribing had a mean age of 68 years and 78% were female. Among 24 medications deemed eligible for deprescribing, 23 (96%) were deprescribed. The clinic‐based deprescribing model resulted in a 93% reduction in median annualized total standardized dose (TSD), 56% lowered their annualized exposure below a cognitive risk threshold, and 4 (17%) of medications were represcribed within 6 months. The 24 patients receiving telephone‐based deprescribing had a mean age of 73 years and 92% were female. Among 24 medications deemed eligible for deprescribing, 12 (50%) were deprescribed. There was no change in the median annualized TSD, the annualized TSD was lowered below a cognitive risk threshold in 46%, and no medications were represcribed within 6 months. Few withdrawal symptoms or adverse events were reported in both groups.

Conclusions

Pharmacist‐based deprescribing successfully reduced exposure to high‐risk anticholinergics in primary care older adults, yet further work is needed to understand the impact on clinical outcomes.
Downregulation of miR‐34c‐5p alleviates chronic intermittent hypoxia‐induced myocardial damage by targeting sirtuin 1
Authors: Zhang Jun , Xie Bo , Tang Yanrong , Zhou Bo , Wang Qiong , Ge Qing , Zhou Yufei , Gu Tongqing
Published: July 2022

Numerous microRNAs (miRs) are abnormally expressed in response to hypoxia‐induced myocardial damage. Herein, miR‐34c‐5p as a potential pharmaco‐target was investigated in a mouse model of chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH)‐induced myocardial damage. A mouse model of myocardial damage was established using CIH with 7% or 21% O2 alternating 60 s for 12 h/day, 21% O2 for 12 h/day. AntagomiR‐34c‐5p (20 nM/0.1 ml; once a week for 12 weeks) was used as a miR‐34c‐5p inhibitor in a mouse model with tail‐vein injection. In another experiment, mice were administrated with Sirt1 activator SRT1720 (50 mg/kg/day) by intraperitoneal injection. Gene Expression Omnibus database showed a significant upregulation of miR‐34c‐5p expression in the ischemic myocardium of male mice. In CIH‐stimulated mice, miR‐34c‐5p expression was also significantly increased compared with normal mice. Treatment of antagomiR‐34c‐5p significantly restrained CIH‐triggered myocardial apoptosis. After administration of antagomiR‐34c‐5p or Sirt1 activator SRT1720, cardiac hypertrophy and oxidative stress were attenuated in CIH‐stimulated mice. We also found sirtuin 1 (Sirt1) as a direct target of miR‐34c‐5p, which was able to mediate Sirt1 protein expression in cardiomyocytes. AntagomiR‐34c‐5p injection markedly elevated Sirt1 protein expression in CIH‐stimulated mice. AntagomiR‐34c‐5p or Sirt1 activator SRT1720 administration exhibited the antioxidative activity and cardioprotective roles in CIH‐stimulated mice.
Regular Turán numbers and some Gan–Loh–Sudakov‐type problems
Authors: Cambie Stijn , de Joannis de Verclos Rémi , Kang Ross J.
Published: July 2022

Motivated by a Gan–Loh–Sudakov‐type problem, we introduce the regular Turán numbers, a natural variation on the classical Turán numbers where we restrict ourselves to the class of regular graphs. Among other results, we prove a striking supersaturation version of Mantel's theorem in the case of a regular host graph of odd order. We also characterize the graphs for which the regular Turán numbers behave classically or otherwise.
Characterization of different chitosanases of Bacillus strains and their application in chitooligosaccharides production
Authors: Liaqat Fakhra , Akgün İsmail Hakki , Khazi Mahammed Ilyas , Eltem Rengin
Published: July 2022

Chitosanases are potential candidates for chitooligosaccharides (COS) production‐based industries, therefore, the discovery of chitosanases having commercial potential will remain a priority worldwide. This study aims to characterize different chitosanases of Bacillus strains for COS production. Six different indigenous Bacillus strains (B. cereus EGE‐B‐6.1m, B. cereus EGE‐B‐2.5m, B. cereus EGE‐B‐5.5m, B. cereus EGE‐B‐10.4i, B. thuringiensis EGE‐B‐3.5m, and B. mojavensis EGE‐B‐5.2i) were used to purify and characterize chitosanases. All purified chitosanases have a similar molecular weight (37 kDa) as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. However, other characteristics such as optimum temperature and pH, kinetic parameters (Km and Vmax), temperature, and pH stabilities were dissimilar among the strains of different Bacillus species and within the same species. Furthermore, chitosanases of all strains were able to successfully hydrolyze chitosan to COS and oligomers of the degree of polymerization 2–6 were detected with chitobiose and chitotriose as major hydrolysis products. The relative yields of COS were in a range of 19%–31% and chitosanase of B. thuringiensis EGE‐B‐3.5m turned out to be the best enzyme in terms of its characteristics and COS production potential with maximum relative yield (31%). Results revealed that Bacillus chitosanases could be used directly for efficient bioconversion of chitosan into COS and will be valuable for large‐scale production of biologically active COS.
Late Holocene interaction of natural processes and human activity at two archaeological sites in the Ten Thousand Islands area of southwest Florida, USA
Authors: Parkinson Randall W.
Published: July 2022

Palaeoenvironmental analysis of Late Holocene stratigraphic sequences recovered from two southwest Florida archaeological sites reveal a synchronous evolution of events caused by natural processes (e.g. sea‐level rise) and human activity (e.g. construction of shell works). Basal mangrove peats indicate that a transition from a terrestrial to coastal landscape started ~4000 cal bp in conjunction with the Late Holocene sea‐level rise. Continued sea‐level rise ultimately submerged the area to create estuarine conditions. Commensurate with submergence was the construction of relatively large (0.5 to 1.0 km2) shell mounds from 1500 to 1050 cal 
bp. These activities started in the estuarine environment and over time produced emergent landscape features with significant local relief (>7 m). The overlap in radiocarbon ages of oysters collected from the estuarine interval and the overlying shell mounds suggests construction material was locally harvested. About 1120 cal 
bp and during the waning of an indigenous presence in the area, red mangrove forests re‐emerged along the margins of each site and within the adjacent estuary to create an expansive mangrove‐dominated landscape within which both shell works are now embedded. This palaeoenvironmental reconstruction contradicts the prevailing notion that the two sites were purposely constructed on the mainland and adjacent to tidally influenced rivulets.
Machine Learning in Diagnosing Middle Ear Disorders Using Tympanic Membrane Images: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Cao Zuwei , Chen Feifan , Grais Emad M. , Yue Fengjuan , Cai Yuexin , Swanepoel De Wet , Zhao Fei
Published: July 2022

Objective

To systematically evaluate the development of Machine Learning (ML) models and compare their diagnostic accuracy for the classification of Middle Ear Disorders (MED) using Tympanic Membrane (TM) images.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and CENTRAL were searched up until November 30, 2021. Studies on the development of ML approaches for diagnosing MED using TM images were selected according to the inclusion criteria. PRISMA guidelines were followed with study design, analysis method, and outcomes extracted. Sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) were used to summarize the performance metrics of the meta‐analysis. Risk of Bias was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies‐2 tool in combination with the Prediction Model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool.

Results

Sixteen studies were included, encompassing 20254 TM images (7025 normal TM and 13229 MED). The sample size ranged from 45 to 6066 per study. The accuracy of the 25 included ML approaches ranged from 76.00% to 98.26%. Eleven studies (68.8%) were rated as having a low risk of bias, with the reference standard as the major domain of high risk of bias (37.5%). Sensitivity and specificity were 93% (95% CI, 90%–95%) and 85% (95% CI, 82%–88%), respectively. The AUC of total TM images was 94% (95% CI, 91%–96%). The greater AUC was found using otoendoscopic images than otoscopic images.

Conclusions

ML approaches perform robustly in distinguishing between normal ears and MED, however, it is proposed that a standardized TM image acquisition and annotation protocol should be developed.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 133:732–741, 2023
Online group buying behavior: A study of experiential versus material purchases
Authors: Agarwal James , Das Gopal , Spence Mark T.
Published: July 2022

More than 50 million consumers participate in online group buying, hence its importance to retailers cannot be ignored. Four studies are conducted to determine (a) whether customers' preferences to participate in group buying relative to buying alone are more in the case of experiential (vs. material) purchases; (b) underlying psychological mechanisms affecting an individual's willingness to invite additional buyers; and (c) the moderating role of analytic versus holistic thinking orientation within the mediational framework. Consistent with expectations, preferences to invite additional buyers to receive a further discount (vs. buying alone and taking the deal‐of‐the‐day) were greater for experiential purchases than material purchases. Three psychological motivators, namely social relatedness, conversational value, and anticipatory enjoyment, act as parallel mediators. Finally, moderated‐mediation analysis shows holistic thinking accentuates the mediational pathway of anticipatory enjoyment but not for social relatedness, whereas analytical thinking accentuates the mediational pathway of conversational value. Of practical relevance to those designing group buying websites is that offering an additional discount to buyers if they are willing to expend the effort to form a larger group not only reduced the number of individuals indicating that they would not make a purchase at all, but about a quarter of respondents indicated that they would endeavor to find additional buyers. In addition, there is a clear preference for experiential goods; and for material goods, the findings suggest drawing attention to the experiences that material goods offer.
Adults with lysosomal storage diseases in the undiagnosed diseases network
Authors: Xiao Changrui , Koziura Mary , Cope Heidi , Spillman Rebecca , Tan Khoon , Hisama Fuki M. , Tifft Cynthia J. , Toro Camilo
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To review the referral and clinical characteristics of adult patients diagnosed with lysosomal storage diseases (LSD) through the Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN).

Methods

Retrospective review of both application and evaluation records for adults admitted to the UDN with a final diagnosis of a lysosomal storage disease.

Results

Ten patients were identified. Final diagnoses included late onset Tay Sachs, attenuated MPS I, MPS IIIA, MPS IIIB, and MPS IIIC. Most patients presented with neurocognitive changes. Prior to referral, all patients had been evaluated by neurology, four patients underwent phenotype specific panel testing that did not include the causative gene, and four patients had non‐diagnostic clinical exome sequencing.

Conclusions

LSDs figure highly in the differential diagnosis of neurometabolic disorders in pediatric onset progressive diseases. In adults, their subtle initial presentations overlap with symptoms of more common disorders and less practitioner awareness may lead to prolonged diagnostic challenges.
A Super‐Formula‐based compact ultra‐wideband antenna and its application to indoor real‐time positioning systems
Authors: Yang Kansheng , Song Zhe , Gielis Johan , Caratelli Diego
Published: July 2022

A Super‐Formula‐based compact ultra‐wideband (UWB) printed monopole antenna is proposed in this paper. The presented design is implemented by using inexpensive FR‐4 laminates, and is optimized so as to enable excellent radio frequency performance in terms of impedance matching, realized gain, total efficiency, radiation pattern characteristics, maximal group delay variation, and system fidelity factor (SFF), while covering the Federal Communications Commission UWB channel 5, from 6.24 to 6.74 GHz, and channel 9, from 7.74 to 8.24 GHz. The proposed antenna solution has been characterized both passively and actively using a commercially available indoor real‐time positioning system, which relies on the phase‐difference‐of‐arrival algorithm. The collected measurement results demonstrate the high accuracy in real‐time positioning achieved with the developed antenna both in terms of distance and angle.
The influence of Opuntia ficus‐indica on human livelihoods in Southern Africa
Authors: Moshobane Moleseng Claude , Olowoyo Joshua O. , Middleton Lorraine
Published: July 2022

Societal Impact Statement

Opuntia ficus‐indica, commonly known as prickly pear, is a widely distributed plant originating in central America. Its wide distribution and popularity as a cultivated plant are due to the sweetness of its fruits. Here, the role of O. ficus‐indica in the livelihoods of people in Limpopo Province, South Africa, was investigated. Roadside traders of prickly pear were surveyed 2019–2020 using paper‐based questionnaires and a convenience sampling strategy. Evidence of O. ficus‐indica trading as a means to generate income was uncovered. Notably, none of the traders knew about invasive species. Future studies should seek to understand the motivations of purchasers. The extent to which rural communities use this species for food security and poverty alleviation is not fully understood.

The Opuntia ficus‐indica (whose fruits are traded in South Africa) is a species that is classified according to the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (10/2004) Alien and Invasive Species (NEM:BA A&IS) regulations as an invasive species. This study sought to provide an understanding of the socio‐economic value of O. ficus‐indica and the characteristic profiles of the people who trade with O. ficus‐indica in the Limpopo Province of South Africa.

A convenience sampling strategy was conducted along trading roads in Limpopo province, and the data were collected by surveying traders' attitudes toward the prickly pear trade using questionnaires.

Our findings show that at the time of sampling 72 traders participated in prickly pear trading along the roadside. Unemployment is cited as the primary reason for their involvement in trading. O. Ficus‐indica is an important fruit for rural communities in Limpopo province. It helps communities living below the poverty line to generate income and to support their livelihoods.

Our study highlights the need for the establishment of a Prickly Pear Traders' Agency in order to promote the trade of O. ficus‐indica as a measure to generate income, alleviate poverty, and ensure food security. The paper concludes with recommendations for local government support for O. ficus‐indica traders through the formalization of the trade and through monetary support.
Firewater fuel tank integrity under blast loads from vapor cloud explosions
Authors: Paschal Tyler , Sharma Amandeep
Published: July 2022

Many firewater systems employ diesel fuel pumps that require nearby diesel storage tanks. If a flammable release and subsequent vapor cloud explosion (VCE) occurs near a firewater pumping station, it is important to understand the impact that the blast load will have on the fuel tanks. This presentation describes an evaluation of the blast response of 350‐gal diesel fuel tanks 80% filled with water to simulate a nearly full diesel tank. The tanks were elevated 6 ft above grade. The deflagration load generator (DLG) test rig was used to impose blast loads of 1–10 psig and 50–180 psi‐ms on a 3 × 3 fuel tank array. Each row of three tanks was rotated to different orientations with respect to the blast load: parallel (face‐on), 45°, and 90° (side‐on). Pressure gauges and high‐speed video recorded the blast loads and dynamic response of the fuel tanks. The results indicate that, depending on orientation and blast load, the tank support structures may undergo plastic deformation and translate in space during loading, although the tanks were still functional post‐test under the blast loads imposed in these tests. A limited comparison between response predictions made using finite element analysis and the test data is provided.
Left truncation in linked data: A practical guide to understanding left truncation and applying it using SAS and R
Authors: Jin Yanling , Ton Thanh G. N. , Incerti Devin , Hu Sylvia
Published: July 2022

Time‐to‐event data such as time to death are broadly used in medical research and drug development to understand the efficacy of a therapeutic. For time‐to‐event data, right censoring (data only observed up to a certain point of time) is common and easy to recognize. Methods that use right censored data, such as the Kaplan–Meier estimator and the Cox proportional hazard model, are well established. Time‐to‐event data can also be left truncated, which arises when patients are excluded from the sample because their events occur before a specific milestone, potentially resulting in an immortal time bias. For example, in a study evaluating the association between biomarker status and overall survival, patients who did not live long enough to receive a genomic test were not observed in the study. Left truncation causes selection bias and often leads to an overestimate of survival time. In this tutorial, we used a nationwide electronic health record‐derived de‐identified database to demonstrate how to analyze left truncated and right censored data without bias using example code from SAS and R.
Determination of four bisphenols in plastic packaging beverages by ultrasonic‐assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction
Authors: Meng Wei , Li Hongmei , Wang Kaiqing , Cao Yanqiu
Published: July 2022

An ultrasonic‐assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction method for the simultaneous detection of four bisphenols (BPs) in plastic packaging beverages was established. The recoveries of the four BPs of spiked water solution were 89.0%–106.7%. The standard deviations (Ss) (n = 9) were 1.7%–2.0%. The recoveries of the 4 BPs in the real honey sample at three concentration levels ranged from 87.6% to 97.5%, and the Ss (n = 6) ranged from 1.0% to 2.3%. The method was employed to detect the 4 BPs (BPA, BPS, BPF, and BPAF) in plastic packaging drinking water, soda water, and honey samples. In drinking water samples, BPS was found in 8 out of 13 samples with a maximum concentration of 1.36 μg/L; BPA was found in four samples, and the maximum concentration was 1.08 μg/L. In soda samples, BPS was detected in six out of the eight samples with the maximum concentration of 27.44 μg/L; 11.40 μg/L BPA was detected in one sample; BPAF was detected in one sample and the concentration was below the limit of quantification. In 13 honey samples, BPF was detected in 12 samples, and the maximum concentration was 766.7 μg/kg; BPS was detected in six samples and the maximum concentration was 209.0 μg/kg; BPAF was detected in eight samples, and the maximum concentration was 197.7 μg/kg; BPA was detected in two samples, but the concentrations were all below the LOQ. Compared with other methods reported, the established method was simple, effective, and eco‐friendly.
EPA's detection methods, the drinking water treatability database, and innovative technologies for PFAS remediation
Authors: Kuzniewski Saleha
Published: July 2022

Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of highly fluorinated, aliphatic chemicals detected throughout the environment, including in human serum. Several regulatory milestones have been achieved in the United States for these environmentally toxic chemicals linked to health problems in humans, the latest one being the US Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) PFAS Strategic Roadmap necessitating detection and remediation of PFAS. This article, in addition to briefly discussing these regulatory milestones, evaluates the EPA's detection methods for PFAS including EPA Methods 533, 537.1, and 8327 and other methods currently under development such as the total organic fluorine (TOF) and total organic precursor (TOP) methods. The article also mentions the methods used by other federal agencies for PFAS quantitation. The EPA's drinking water treatability database (TDB) is also described along with the advantages and challenges of the effective treatment methods for PFAS. Most of these treatment methods in the EPA's drinking water TDB face the challenge of disposing wastes containing PFAS, an issue not faced by innovative technologies, and some of these innovative technologies are also discussed. This article will help to understand the current status on the detection and remediation technologies for PFAS treatment in soil and water. It is imperative to have these technologies ready to assist with the remediation objectives in the PFAS Strategic Roadmap.
Recent advances in the investigation of a slow‐moving landslide in the Three Gorges Reservoir area, China
Authors: Wang Shun , Li Dian‐Qing , Du Wenqi
Published: July 2022

Many slow‐moving landslides in the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) area exhibit episodic movement patterns in response to variations in the reservoir water level and seasonal rainfall. These landslides are typically characterized by pre‐existing shear zones composed of thick, clay‐rich layers that are sensitive to hydrological forcings. The residual shear strength of these shear zones is believed to control the dynamic movements of these landslides. In this article, we review the recent advances in the investigation of a large slow‐moving landslide, the Huangtupo landslide, in the TGR area. This landslide has been chosen as a benchmark for studying similar landslides in this area. This review focuses mainly on the research carried out by the authors and their collaborators over the last 5 years on topics including the landslide mechanisms and forcings, rheological behaviors and constitutive models of the landslide materials, the numerical simulation of clastic shear‐zone soils, and the effects landslide‐induced tsunamis would have on the ships in the reservoir. In addition, new perspectives and challenges for future research on slow‐moving landslides are provided.
Selenylation of Guar Gum Mediated by N‐Methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone Hydrosulfate: Insights into Regulation of Selenium Content and Molecular Weight
Authors: Hu Jiahuan , Zhou Tiantian , Zhou Xiaoxue , Qin Xiaojie , Kong Weibao , Zhang Ji , Wang Junlong
Published: July 2022

Selenylation is an important modification strategy of polysaccharide, however, one of the main obstacles is that the weak esterification ability of selenide reagent, which leads to the low Se conversion efficiency during reaction. Here, we used N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone hydrosulfate ([HNMP]HSO4) as acid catalyst efficiently synthesized selenized guar gum (Se‐GGs) to improve the activity of selenide reagent. The chemical structure of GG and selenized derivatives was investigated using FT‐IR, 1D/2D NMR spectrometry and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The results indicated that selenite groups existed in Se‐GGs and the substitution position was at C6. Furthermore, it was also demonstrated that [HNMP]HSO4 had a dual influence on GG by increasing the Se content (from 181.3 to 9072.8 μg/g) and regulating the molecular weight, which was due to strong Brönsted acidic proton (H+). These results illustrated a new synthetic method for preparing functional polysaccharides with a broad range of potential applications.
Synthesis of PdII Triazolylidene Complexes via an Unusual Csp2‐Csp2 Decoupling Reaction: Applications in α‐Arylation of Amide and Suzuki‐Miyaura Coupling Reactions
Authors: Naskar Rajat , Sinhababu Saptaparna , Majumder Adhir , Maity Ramananda
Published: July 2022

Mononuclear PdII complexes bearing mixed MIC/Py/PPh3 donor set ligands are presented starting from a bis‐triazolium salt featuring 4,4’‐substitution pattern of central biphenyl ring. The mononuclear PEPPSI (pyridine enhanced precatalyst preparation, stabilization and initiation) type complexes bearing triazolylidene donor ligand have been synthesized via an unusual Csp2‐Csp2 decoupling reaction. The complexes have been characterized by 1H, 13C{1H} NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. Two of the complexes have also been structurally characterized by single crystal XRD. All the complexes appeared as active precatalysts in α‐arylation of amide and Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling reactions. Catalytic outcomes clearly indicate the superior activities of the PdII complexes with mixed MIC/PPh3 donor set ligands compared to the corresponding PEPPSI type complexes in α‐arylation of oxindole.
Synthesis and Antitumor Activity of 2,3‐Diphenyl‐2H‐indazole Derivatives as Potent Antitubulin Agents
Authors: Matadamas‐Martínez Félix , Yépez‐Mulia Lilián , Pérez‐Koldenkova Vadim , Cortés‐Benítez Francisco , Leyte‐Lugo Martha , Palacios‐Espinosa Juan Francisco , Rodríguez‐Villar Karen , Soria‐Arteche Olivia , Pérez‐Villanueva Jaime
Published: July 2022

We contribute with the design and synthesis of novel 2,3‐diphenyl‐2H‐indazole hybrids series (1–14). Compounds 4 and 6 had the highest antiproliferative activity against the cancer cell lines, HeLa, SK‐LU‐1, K‐562, PC‐3, SW620 and MCF‐7 (CC50 values from 3 to 5.4 μM). Their activity was also evaluated against a normal human cell line, showing their higher Selectivity Index against the cancer cell lines than the reference drug CA‐4. The inhibition of tubulin assembly by compounds 4 and 6 was determined using in vitro tubulin polymerization assay and Western Blotting. The induction of mitotic catastrophe was observed with immunofluorescence assays. Besides, it was demonstrated by flow cytometry that compounds 4 and 6 arrest HeLa cell cycle at G2/M and promote apoptotic cell death. The mitotic arrest was also associated with elevated levels of cyclin B1 protein. We have identified two hybrids that behave as microtubule‐destabilizing agents on different cancer cell lines.
Emerging Synthesis Strategies of 2D MOFs for Electrical Devices and Integrated Circuits
Authors: Wang Linjuan , Saji Sandra Elizabeth , Wu Lingjun , Wang Zixuan , Chen Zijian , Du Yaping , Yu Xue‐feng , Zhao Haitao , Yin Zongyou
Published: July 2022

The development of advanced electronic devices is boosting many aspects of modern technology and industry. The ever‐increasing demand for advanced electrical devices and integrated circuits calls for the design of novel materials, with superior properties for the improvement of working performance. In this review, a detailed overview of the synthesis strategies of 2D metal organic frameworks (MOFs) acquiring growing attention is presented, as a basis for expansion of novel key materials in electrical devices and integrated circuits. A framework of controllable synthesis routes to be implanted in the synthesis strategies of 2D materials and MOFs is described. In short, the synthesis methods of 2D MOFs are summarized and discussed in depth followed by the illustrations of promising applications relating to various electrical devices and integrated circuits. It is concluded by outlining how 2D MOFs can be synthesized in a simpler, highly efficient, low‐cost, and more environmentally friendly way which can open up their applicable opportunities as key materials in advanced electrical devices and integrated circuits, enabling their use in broad aspects of the society.