bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intrinsic DMI-free skyrmion formation and robust dynamic behaviors in magnetic hemispherical shells
Authors: Yang Jaehak , Abert Claas , Suess Dieter , Kim Sang-Koog
Published: February 2021

We performed finite-element micromagnetic simulations to examine the formation of skyrmions without intrinsic Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction (DMI) in magnetic hemispherical shells. We found that curvature-induced DM-like interaction allows for further stabilization of skyrmions without the DMI in curved-geometry hemispherical shells for a specific range of uniaxial perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) constant Ku. The larger the curvature of the shell, the higher the Ku value required for the formation of the skyrmions. With well-stabilized skyrmions, we also found in-plane gyration modes and azimuthal spin-wave modes as well as an out-of-plane breathing mode, similarly to previously found modes for planar geometries. Furthermore, additional higher-frequency hybrid modes were observed due to coupling between the gyration and azimuthal modes. This work provides further physical insight into the static and dynamic properties of intrinsic DMI-free skyrmions formed in curved-geometry systems.
A molecular dynamics study of the oxidation mechanism, nanostructure evolution, and friction characteristics of ultrathin amorphous carbon films in vacuum and oxygen atmosphere
Authors: Wang Shengxi , Komvopoulos Kyriakos
Published: February 2021

Amorphous carbon (a-C) films are characterized by extraordinary chemical inertness and unique thermophysical properties that are critical to applications requiring oxidation-resistant, low-friction, and durable overcoats. However, the increasing demands for ultrathin (a few nanometers thick) a-C films in various emerging technologies, such as computer storage devices, microelectronics, microdynamic systems, and photonics, make experimental evaluation of the structural stability and tribomechanical properties at the atomic level cumbersome and expensive. Consequently, the central objective of this study was to develop comprehensive MD models that can provide insight into the oxidation behavior and friction characteristics of ultrathin a-C films exhibiting layered through-thickness structure. MD simulations were performed for a-C films characterized by relatively low and high sp3 contents subjected to energetic oxygen atom bombardment or undergoing normal and sliding contact against each other in vacuum and oxygen atmosphere. The effect of energetic oxygen atoms on the oxidation behavior of a-C films, the dependence of contact deformation and surface attractive forces (adhesion) on surface interference, and the evolution of friction and structural changes (rehybridization) in the former a-C films during sliding are interpreted in the context of simulations performed in vacuum and oxidizing environments. The present study provides insight into the oxidation mechanism and friction behavior of ultrathin a-C films and introduces a computational framework for performing oxidation/tribo-oxidation MD simulations that can guide experimental investigations.
Synthesis of silver nanoparticles using white-rot fungus Anamorphous Bjerkandera sp. R1: influence of silver nitrate concentration and fungus growth time
Authors: Osorio-Echavarría Jerónimo , Osorio-Echavarría Juliana , Ossa-Orozco Claudia Patricia , Gómez-Vanegas Natalia Andrea
Published: February 2021

Currently, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) constitute an interesting field of study in medicine, catalysis, optics, among others. For this reason, it has been necessary to develop new methodologies that allow a more efficient production of AgNPs with better antimicrobial and biological properties. In this research growth time effects Anamorphous Bjerkandera sp. R1 and the silver nitrate (AgNO3) concentration over AgNPs synthesis were studied. Through the protocol used in this work, it was found that the action of the capping proteins on the surface of the mycelium played a determining role in the reduction of the Ag+ ion to Ag0 nanoparticles producing a particle size that oscillated between 10 and 100 nm. The progress of the reaction was monitored using visible UV–Vis spectroscopy and the synthesized AgNPs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared radiation (FTIR) spectroscopy. The best synthetic properties were found at 1 mM of AgNO3 concentration, growth time of 8 days, and reaction time of 144 h. Nanometals obtention from microorganisms could be considered as a new method of synthesis, due to reducing abilities of metal ions through its enzymatic system and represents low-cost synthesis that reduces the generation of harmful toxic wastes.
Digital gene expression analysis of the response to Ralstonia solanacearum between resistant and susceptible tobacco varieties
Authors: Li YanYan , Wang Lin , Sun GuangWei , Li XiHong , Chen ZhenGuo , Feng Ji , Yang Yong
Published: February 2021

Tobacco bacterial wilt (TBW) caused by Ralstonia solanacearum is the most serious soil-borne disease of tobacco. However, molecular mechanism information of R. solanacearum resistance is limited to tobacco, hindering better breeding of resistant tobacco. In this study, the expression profiles of the rootstalks of Yunyan87 (susceptible cultivar) and Fandi3 (resistant cultivar) at different stages after R. solanacearum infection were compared to explore molecular mechanisms of tobacco resistance against the bacterium. Findings from gene-expression profiling indicated that the number of upregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at 3 and 7 days post-inoculation (dpi) increased significantly in the resistant cultivar. WRKY6 and WRKY11 family genes in WRKY transcription factors, ERF5 and ERF15 family genes in ERFs transcription factors, and genes encoding PR5 were significantly upregulated in the resistant cultivar response to the infection. For the first time, WRKY11 and ERF15 were found to be possibly involved in disease-resistance. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis demonstrated glutathione metabolism and phenylpropane pathways as primary resistance pathways to R. solanacearum infection. In the resistant cultivar, DEGs encoding CYP450, TCM, CCoAOMT, 4CL, PAL, CCR, CSE, and CADH, involved in the synthesis of plant antitoxins such as flavonoids, stilbenoids, and lignins, enriched in the phenylpropane pathway were upregulated at 3 and 7 dpi. Furthermore, a pot experiment was performed to verify the role of flavonoids in controlling TBW. This study will strongly contribute to a better understanding of molecular interactions between tobacco plants and R. solanacearum.
Web of lies: a tool for determining the limits of verification in preventing the spread of false information on networks
Authors: Makovi Kinga , Muñoz-Herrera Manuel
Published: February 2021

The spread of false information on social networks has garnered substantial scientific and popular attention. To counteract this spread, verification of the truthfulness of information has been proposed as a key intervention. Using a novel behavioral experiment with over 2000 participants, we analyze participants’ willingness to spread false information in a network. All participants in the network have aligned incentives making lying attractive and countering the explicit norm of truth-telling that we impose. We investigate how verifying the truth, endogenously or exogenously, impacts the choice to lie or to adhere to the norm of truth-telling and how this compares to the spread of information in a setting in which such verification is not possible. The three key take-aways are (1) verification is only moderately effective in reducing the spread of lies, and (2) its effectivity is contingent on the agency of people in seeking the truth, and (3) on the exposure of liars, not only on the exposure of the lies being told. These results suggest that verification is not a blanket solution. To enhance its effectivity, verification should be combined with efforts to foster a culture of truth-seeking and with information on who is spreading lies.
Evidence for specificity of polygenic contributions to attainment in English, maths and science during adolescence
Authors: Donati Georgina , Dumontheil Iroise , Pain Oliver , Asbury Kathryn , Meaburn Emma L.
Published: February 2021

How well one does at school is predictive of a wide range of important cognitive, socioeconomic, and health outcomes. The last few years have shown marked advancement in our understanding of the genetic contributions to, and correlations with, academic attainment. However, there exists a gap in our understanding of the specificity of genetic associations with performance in academic subjects during adolescence, a critical developmental period. To address this, the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children was used to conduct genome-wide association studies of standardised national English (N = 5983), maths (N = 6017) and science (N = 6089) tests. High SNP-based heritabilities (h2SNP) for all subjects were found (41–53%). Further, h2SNPfor maths and science remained after removing shared variance between subjects or IQ (N = 3197–5895). One genome-wide significant single nucleotide polymorphism (rs952964, p = 4.86 × 10–8) and four gene-level associations with science attainment (MEF2C, BRINP1,S100A1andS100A13) were identified. Rs952964 remained significant after removing the variance shared between academic subjects. The findings highlight the benefits of using environmentally homogeneous samples for genetic analyses and indicate that finer-grained phenotyping will help build more specific biological models of variance in learning processes and abilities.
Examination of structure and optical properties of Ce3+-doped strontium borate glass by regression analysis
Authors: Masai Hirokazu , Ohkubo Takahiro , Fujii Yasuhiro , Koreeda Akitoshi , Yanagida Takayuki , Ina Toshiaki , Kintaka Kenji
Published: February 2021

Amorphous materials with non-periodic structures are commonly evaluated based on their chemical composition, which is not always the best parameter to evaluate physical properties, and an alternative parameter more suitable for performance evaluation must be considered. Herein, we quantified various structural and physical properties of Ce-doped strontium borate glasses and studied their correlations by principal component analysis. We found that the density-driven molar volume is suitable for the evaluation of structural data, while chemical composition is better for the evaluation of optical and luminescent data. Furthermore, the borate-rich glasses exhibited a stronger luminescence due to Ce3+, indicating a higher fraction of BO3/2 ring and larger cavity. Moreover, the internal quantum efficiency was found to originate from the local coordination states of the Ce3+ centres, independent of composition or molar volume. The comparison of numerical data of the matrix is useful not only for ensuring the homogenous doping of amorphous materials by activators, but also for determining the origin of physical properties.
Uncertainty quantification in the radiogenomics modeling of EGFR amplification in glioblastoma
Authors: Hu Leland S. , Wang Lujia , Hawkins-Daarud Andrea , Eschbacher Jennifer M. , Singleton Kyle W. , Jackson Pamela R. , Clark-Swanson Kamala , Sereduk Christopher P. , Peng Sen , Wang Panwen , Wang Junwen , Baxter Leslie C. , Smith Kris A. , Mazza Gina L. , Stokes Ashley M. , Bendok Bernard R. , Zimmerman Richard S. , Krishna Chandan , Porter Alyx B. , Mrugala Maciej M. , Hoxworth Joseph M. , Wu Teresa , Tran Nhan L. , Swanson Kristin R. , Li Jing
Published: February 2021

Radiogenomics uses machine-learning (ML) to directly connect the morphologic and physiological appearance of tumors on clinical imaging with underlying genomic features. Despite extensive growth in the area of radiogenomics across many cancers, and its potential role in advancing clinical decision making, no published studies have directly addressed uncertainty in these model predictions. We developed a radiogenomics ML model to quantify uncertainty using transductive Gaussian Processes (GP) and a unique dataset of 95 image-localized biopsies with spatially matched MRI from 25 untreated Glioblastoma (GBM) patients. The model generated predictions for regional EGFR amplification status (a common and important target in GBM) to resolve the intratumoral genetic heterogeneity across each individual tumor—a key factor for future personalized therapeutic paradigms. The model used probability distributions for each sample prediction to quantify uncertainty, and used transductive learning to reduce the overall uncertainty. We compared predictive accuracy and uncertainty of the transductive learning GP model against a standard GP model using leave-one-patient-out cross validation. Additionally, we used a separate dataset containing 24 image-localized biopsies from 7 high-grade glioma patients to validate the model. Predictive uncertainty informed the likelihood of achieving an accurate sample prediction. When stratifying predictions based on uncertainty, we observed substantially higher performance in the group cohort (75% accuracy, n = 95) and amongst sample predictions with the lowest uncertainty (83% accuracy, n = 72) compared to predictions with higher uncertainty (48% accuracy, n = 23), due largely to data interpolation (rather than extrapolation). On the separate validation set, our model achieved 78% accuracy amongst the sample predictions with lowest uncertainty. We present a novel approach to quantify radiogenomics uncertainty to enhance model performance and clinical interpretability. This should help integrate more reliable radiogenomics models for improved medical decision-making.
Effects of open-label placebos in clinical trials: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: von Wernsdorff Melina , Loef Martin , Tuschen-Caffier Brunna , Schmidt Stefan
Published: February 2021

Open-label placebos (OLPs) are placebos without deception in the sense that patients know that they are receiving a placebo. The objective of our study is to systematically review and analyze the effect of OLPs in comparison to no treatment in clinical trials. A systematic literature search was carried out in February 2020. Randomized controlled trials of any medical condition or mental disorder comparing OLPs to no treatment were included. Data extraction and risk of bias rating were independently assessed. 1246 records were screened and thirteen studies were included into the systematic review. Eleven trials were eligible for meta-analysis. These trials assessed effects of OLPs on back pain, cancer-related fatigue, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, allergic rhinitis, major depression, irritable bowel syndrome and menopausal hot flushes. Risk of bias was moderate among all studies. We found a significant overall effect (standardized mean difference = 0.72, 95% Cl 0.39–1.05, p < 0.0001, I2 = 76%) of OLP. Thus, OLPs appear to be a promising treatment in different conditions but the respective research is in its infancy. More research is needed, especially with respect to different medical and mental disorders and instructions accompanying the OLP administration as well as the role of expectations and mindsets.
Dimensionality reduction using singular vectors
Authors: Afshar Majid , Usefi Hamid
Published: February 2021

A common problem in machine learning and pattern recognition is the process of identifying the most relevant features, specifically in dealing with high-dimensional datasets in bioinformatics. In this paper, we propose a new feature selection method, called Singular-Vectors Feature Selection (SVFS). Let$$D= [A \mid \mathbf {b}]$$D=[A∣b]be a labeled dataset, where$$\mathbf {b}$$bis the class label and features (attributes) are columns of matrixA. We show that the signature matrix$$S_A=I-A^{\dagger }A$$SA=I-A†Acan be used to partition the columns ofAinto clusters so that columns in a cluster correlate only with the columns in the same cluster. In the first step, SVFS uses the signature matrix$$S_D$$SDofDto find the cluster that contains$$\mathbf {b}$$b. We reduce the size ofAby discarding features in the other clusters as irrelevant features. In the next step, SVFS uses the signature matrix$$S_A$$SAof reducedAto partition the remaining features into clusters and choose the most important features from each cluster. Even though SVFS works perfectly on synthetic datasets, comprehensive experiments on real world benchmark and genomic datasets shows that SVFS exhibits overall superior performance compared to the state-of-the-art feature selection methods in terms of accuracy, running time, and memory usage. A Python implementation of SVFS along with the datasets used in this paper are available athttps://github.com/Majid1292/SVFS.
Epidemiological characteristics of cancers in patients with end-stage kidney disease: a Korean nationwide study
Authors: Lee Min-Jeong , Lee Eunyoung , Park Bumhee , Park Inwhee
Published: February 2021

Patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) have been reported to have an increased risk of cancer. However, the epidemiological characteristics of cancer in ESKD patients remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of cancer in ESKD patients and the differences based on the renal replacement therapy provided. Data on ESKD patients were obtained from the South Korean nationwide cohort Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database. This study included 58,831 eligible patients of the total 813,907 patients diagnosed with ESKD between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2017. Of the 58,831 ESKD patients, 3292 (5.6%) were newly diagnosed with cancer. The average duration between the diagnosis of ESKD and cancer was 3.3 ± 1.9 years (mean ± standard deviation), with no differences between hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplant groups. The most commonly observed cancer sites in ESKD patients were the colorectum, lung, and liver. The incidence of cancer increased progressively among patients undergoing kidney transplant, peritoneal dialysis, and hemodialysis in that order. Hemodialysis patients were found to have an increased risk of digestive tract cancer compared with kidney transplant patients (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.9; 95% confidence interval: 1.31–2.81; P < 0.001). The study findings may be a useful reference for cancer-screening guidelines.
A deep learning integrated radiomics model for identification of coronavirus disease 2019 using computed tomography
Authors: Zhang Xiaoguo , Wang Dawei , Shao Jiang , Tian Song , Tan Weixiong , Ma Yan , Xu Qingnan , Ma Xiaoman , Li Dasheng , Chai Jun , Wang Dingjun , Liu Wenwen , Lin Lingbo , Wu Jiangfen , Xia Chen , Zhang Zhongfa
Published: February 2021

Since its first outbreak, Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been rapidly spreading worldwide and caused a global pandemic. Rapid and early detection is essential to contain COVID-19. Here, we first developed a deep learning (DL) integrated radiomics model for end-to-end identification of COVID-19 using CT scans and then validated its clinical feasibility. We retrospectively collected CT images of 386 patients (129 with COVID-19 and 257 with other community-acquired pneumonia) from three medical centers to train and externally validate the developed models. A pre-trained DL algorithm was utilized to automatically segment infected lesions (ROIs) on CT images which were used for feature extraction. Five feature selection methods and four machine learning algorithms were utilized to develop radiomics models. Trained with features selected by L1 regularized logistic regression, classifier multi-layer perceptron (MLP) demonstrated the optimal performance with AUC of 0.922 (95% CI 0.856–0.988) and 0.959 (95% CI 0.910–1.000), the same sensitivity of 0.879, and specificity of 0.900 and 0.887 on internal and external testing datasets, which was equivalent to the senior radiologist in a reader study. Additionally, diagnostic time of DL-MLP was more efficient than radiologists (38 s vs 5.15 min). With an adequate performance for identifying COVID-19, DL-MLP may help in screening of suspected cases.
Combinatorial measurement of critical cooling rates in aluminum-base metallic glass forming alloys
Authors: Liu Naijia , Ma Tianxing , Liao Chaoqun , Liu Guannan , Mota Rodrigo Miguel Ojeda , Liu Jingbei , Sohn Sungwoo , Kube Sebastian , Zhao Shaofan , Singer Jonathan P. , Schroers Jan
Published: February 2021

Direct measurement of critical cooling rates has been challenging and only determined for a minute fraction of the reported metallic glass forming alloys. Here, we report a method that directly measures critical cooling rate of thin film metallic glass forming alloys in a combinatorial fashion. Based on a universal heating architecture using indirect laser heating and a microstructure analysis this method offers itself as a rapid screening technique to quantify glass forming ability. We use this method to identify glass forming alloys and study the composition effect on the critical cooling rate in the Al–Ni–Ge system where we identified Al51Ge35Ni14 as the best glass forming composition with a critical cooling rate of 104 K/s.
Spin dynamics investigations of multifunctional ambient scalable Fe3O4 surface decorated ZnO magnetic nanocomposite using FMR
Authors: Pathak Saurabh , Verma Rajni , Singhal Sakshi , Chaturvedi Raghav , Kumar Prashant , Sharma Pragati , Pant R. P. , Wang Xu
Published: February 2021

Microwave spin resonance behavior of the Fe3O4 surface decorated ZnO nanocomposites (FZNC) has been investigated by ferromagnetic resonance (FMR). Modified hydrothermal method has been adopted to fabricate FZNC samples with Fe3O4 nanoparticles chains were used as seeds in the uniform magnetic field to decorate them on the surface of the ZnO nanoparticles in a unique configuration. Spin dynamics investigation confirms the transition of ZnO from diamagnetic to ferromagnetic as the sharp FMR spectra converts to the broad spectra with Fe3O4 nanoparticles incorporation. A single broad FMR spectra confirms that no isolated Fe3+ or Zn2+ ions exist which is also in agreement with XRD confirming suitable composite formation. Further, the increase in Fe3O4 concentration leads to decrease in g-value which is resulting from the internal field enhancement due to magnetic ordering. Also, various spin resonance parameters were calculated for the FZNC which provides a detail information about the magnetic ordering, exchange coupling and anisotropy. Elemental analysis confirms the presence of Fe and Zn simultaneously and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) image show the presence of Fe3O4 on the grain boundaries of ZnO which has been confirmed by taking high-resolution TEM and electron diffraction patterns on both sides of the interface. These unique structural configuration of the FZNC has tremendous potential in various magneto-optoelectronic, spintronics and electro-chemical applications.
Implementation and effectiveness of a multi-domain program for older adults at risk of cognitive impairment at neighborhood senior centres
Authors: Ng Pei Ern Mary , Nicholas Sean Olivia , Wee Shiou Liang , Yau Teng Yan , Chan Alvin , Chng Isaiah , Yap Lin Kiat Philip , Ng Tze Pin
Published: February 2021

To address the paucity of research investigating the implementation of multi-domain dementia prevention interventions, we implemented and evaluated a 24-week, bi-weekly multi-domain program for older adults at risk of cognitive impairment at neighborhood senior centres (SCs). It comprised dual-task exercises, cognitive training, and mobile application-based nutritional guidance. An RCT design informed by the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance framework was adopted. Outcome measures include cognition, quality of life, blood parameters, and physical performance. Implementation was evaluated through questionnaires administered to participants, implementers, SC managers, attendance lists, and observations. The program reached almost 50% of eligible participants, had an attrition rate of 22%, and was adopted by 8.7% of the SCs approached. It was implemented as intended; only the nutritional component was re-designed due to participants’ unfamiliarity with the mobile application. While there were no between-group differences in cognition, quality of life, and blood parameters, quality of life reduced in the control group and physical function improved in the intervention group after 24 weeks. The program was well-received by participants and SCs. Our findings show that a multi-domain program for at-risk older adults has benefits and can be implemented through neighborhood SCs. Areas of improvement are discussed.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04440969 retrospectively registered on 22 June 2020.
Retinoic acid regulates erythropoietin production cooperatively with hypoxia-inducible factors in human iPSC-derived erythropoietin-producing cells
Authors: Katagiri Naoko , Hitomi Hirofumi , Mae Shin-Ichi , Kotaka Maki , Lei Li , Yamamoto Takuya , Nishiyama Akira , Osafune Kenji
Published: February 2021

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a crucial hormone for erythropoiesis and produced by adult kidneys. Insufficient EPO production in chronic kidney disease (CKD) can cause renal anemia. Although hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) are known as a main regulator, the mechanisms of EPO production have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we aimed to examine the roles of retinoic acid (RA) in EPO production using EPO-producing cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC-EPO cells) that we previously established. RA augmented EPO production by hiPSC-EPO cells under hypoxia or by treatment with prolyl hydroxylase domain-containing protein (PHD) inhibitors that upregulate HIF signals. Combination treatment with RA and a PHD inhibitor improved renal anemia in vitamin A-depleted CKD model mice. Our findings using hiPSC-EPO cells and CKD model mice may contribute to clarifying the EPO production mechanism and developing efficient therapies for renal anemia.
Hepatic connective tissue growth factor expression and regulation differ between non-steatotic and non-alcoholic steatotic livers from brain-dead donor
Authors: Yang Dong-Jing , Shi Ji-Hua , Xia Zong-Ping , Guo Wen-Zhi , Ahmed Mohammed Shakil , Zhang Shui-Jun
Published: February 2021

Accurate evaluation of liver steatosis is required from brain-dead donors (BDDs) with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Our purposes were to investigate expression and regulation of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression in livers from human and rat after brain death, and further evaluate its potential application. NAFLD and brain death models were established in rats. LX2 cells were cultured under hypoxia/reoxygenation. CTGF protein and mRNA levels were measured in liver samples from BDDs of human and rat by immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. YAP-regulated CTGF expression was investigated in LX2 cells via YAP small interfering RNA and Verteporfin treatment. Blood CTGF level from BDDs was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. After brain death, CTGF, transforming growth factor-β and YAP were overexpressed in non-alcoholic steatotic liver, whereas CTGF was downregulated in non-steatotic liver. Time-series analysis revealed that CTGF and YAP expression was comparable, as confirmed by inhibited YAP expression in LX2 cells. CTGF level and NAFLD activity were linearly correlated. CTGF expression and regulation differ between non-steatosis and nonalcoholic steatosis livers from BDDs. CTGF may be an important factor to evaluate graft quality from BDDs with NAFLD.
Apical debris extrusion during instrumentation of oval root canals in primary teeth using manual versus motorized files: an ex vivo study
Authors: Pawar Bhaggyashri A. , Pawar Ajinkya M. , Atram Jatin , Luke Alexander Maniangat , Bhardwaj Anuj , Kfir Anda , Metzger Zvi , Wahjuningrum Dian Agustin
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to assess the apical extrusion of debris during instrumentation of primary canines using three endodontic file types. Forty-five extracted primary canines were randomly assigned to three instrumentation groups (n = 15): Hand K-files; and the motorized Kedo-S files and XP-endo Shaper files. The apically extruded debris produced during the procedure was collected and dried in pre-weighed Eppendorf tubes, and the mass of debris was calculated. The time required for the endodontic procedure was also recorded. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post hoc test were used with a significance level set at 5%. XP-endo Shaper and Kedo-S files extruded significantly less debris compared with hand K-files with means of 0.84 ± 0.31 and 1.20 ± 0.67 mg respectively, compared to 2.13 ± 0.31 mg (p < 0.0001). No significant difference was found between the two motorized files. Less time was required to complete the procedure with the XP-endo Shaper compared to the hand K-files (p < 0.0001) and Kedo-S files (p < 0.0001). Within the limitations of the present study, it may be concluded that motorized files extruded less debris and required less instrumentation time compared to traditional K-files, which could benefit paediatric patients with root canal treatment needs.
Compact lightweight imager of both gamma rays and neutrons based on a pixelated stilbene scintillator coupled to a silicon photomultiplier array
Authors: Boo Jihwan , Hammig Mark D. , Jeong Manhee
Published: February 2021

Dual particle imaging, in which both neutrons and gamma-rays in the environment can be individually characterized, is particularly attractive for monitoring mixed radiation emitters such as special nuclear materials (SNM). Effective SNM localization and detection benefits from high instrument sensitivity so that real-time imaging or imaging with a limited number of acquired events is enabled. For portable applications, one also desires a dual particle imager (DPI) that is readily deployable. We have developed a hand-held type DPI equipped with a pixelated stilbene-silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) array module and low sampling-rate analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) processed via a multiplexed readout. The stilbene-SiPM array (12 × 12 pixels) is capable of effectively performing pulse shape discrimination (PSD) between gamma-ray and neutron events and neutron/gamma-ray source localization on the imaging plane, as demonstrated with 252Cf neutron/gamma and 137Cs gamma-ray sources. The low sampling rate ADCs connected to the stilbene-SiPM array module result in a compact instrument with high sensitivity that provides a gamma-ray image of a 137Cs source, producing 6.4 μR/h at 1 m, in less than 69 s. A neutron image for a 3.5 × 105 n/s 252Cf source can also be obtained in less than 6 min at 1 m from the center of the system. The instrument images successfully with field of view of 50° and provides angular resolution of 6.8°.
Diaporthe species causing stem gray blight of red-fleshed dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) in Malaysia
Authors: Huda-Shakirah Abd Rahim , Kee Yee Jia , Wong Kak Leong , Zakaria Latiffah , Mohd Masratul Hawa
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to characterize the new fungal disease on the stem of red-fleshed dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) in Malaysia, which is known as gray blight through morphological, molecular and pathogenicity analyses. Nine fungal isolates were isolated from nine blighted stems of H. polyrhizus. Based on morphological characteristics, DNA sequences and phylogeny (ITS, TEF1-α, and β-tubulin), the fungal isolates were identified as Diaporthe arecae, D. eugeniae, D. hongkongensis, D. phaseolorum, and D. tectonendophytica. Six isolates recovered from the Cameron Highlands, Pahang belonged to D. eugeniae (DF1 and DF3), D. hongkongensis (DF9), D. phaseolorum (DF2 and DF12), and D. tectonendophytica (DF7), whereas three isolates from Bukit Kor, Terengganu were recognized as D. arecae (DFP3), D. eugeniae (DFP4), and D. tectonendophytica (DFP2). Diaporthe eugeniae and D. tectonendophytica were found in both Pahang and Terengganu, D. phaseolorum and D. hongkongensis in Pahang, whereas D. arecae only in Terengganu. The role of the Diaporthe isolates in causing stem gray blight of H. polyrhizus was confirmed. To date, only D. phaseolorum has been previously reported on Hylocereus undatus. This is the first report on D. arecae, D. eugeniae, D. hongkongensis, D. phaseolorum, and D. tectonendophytica causing stem gray blight of H. polyrhizus worldwide.
Recovery of tropical marine benthos after a trawl ban demonstrates linkage between abiotic and biotic changes
Authors: Wang Zhi , Leung Kenneth M. Y. , Sung Yik-Hei , Dudgeon David , Qiu Jian-Wen
Published: February 2021

Bottom trawling, which is highly detrimental to seabed habitats, has been banned in some jurisdictions to mitigate the problems of habitat destruction and overfishing. However, most reports of ecosystem responses to trawling impacts originate from temperate latitudes, focusing on commercial species, and recovery of invertebrate macrobenthos from trawl ban has hardly ever been studied in the tropics. In Hong Kong (lat. 22.4°N), a history of intensive trawling with various types of gears has long degraded coastal ecosystems. To facilitate the recovery of fisheries resources and associated benthic ecosystems, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region implemented a territory-wide trawl ban on December 31, 2012. Comparison of surveys conducted in June 2012 (before the trawl ban) and June 2015 (2.5 years after the ban) revealed higher organic contents in sediment and lower suspended-solid loads in water column, as well as a significant increase in site-based abundance, species richness, functional diversity and among-site similarity of macrobenthos after the trawl ban. Our results suggest that the imposition of a trawl ban can be an effective measure for biodiversity conservation in tropical coastal waters.
Monitoring the neurotransmitter release of human midbrain organoids using a redox cycling microsensor as a novel tool for personalized Parkinson's disease modelling and drug screening
Authors: Zanetti Cristian , Spitz Sarah , Berger Emanuel , Bolognin Silvia , Smits Lisa M. , Crepaz Philipp , Rothbauer Mario , Rosser Julie M. , Marchetti-Deschmann Martina , Schwamborn Jens C. , Ertl Peter
Published: February 2021

A novel dopamine targeted electrochemical detection strategy has enabled the phenotyping and non-invasive monitoring of human midbrain organoids (healthy and Parkinson's diseased), by employing a redox-cycling based microsensor.
Carbon dots as naked eye sensors
Authors: Junaid Hafiz Muhammad , Solangi Amber Rehana , Batool Madeeha
Published: February 2021

Optical sensors are always fascinating for chemists due to their selectivity, sensitivity, robustness and cost-effective nature.
ANFO vapour detection with conducting polymer percolation network sensors and GC/MS
Authors: Lefferts Merel J. , Humphreys Lisa H. , Mai Nathalie , Murugappan Krishnan , Armitage Ben I. , Pons Jean-François , Castell Martin R.
Published: February 2021

Ammonium nitrate mixed with fuel oil (ANFO) is commonly used in improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The modification of a pyrene group makes a Ru(ii) complex versatile
Authors: Jin Zhihui , Qi Shuang , Guo Xusheng , Jian Yao , Hou Yuanjun , Li Chao , Wang Xuesong , Zhou Qianxiong
Published: February 2021

A versatile Ru(ii) complex with self-reporting ligand photo-dissociation and efficient two-photon excited synergistic PACT and PDT abilities was designed and studied.
Experimental and theoretical study of photo-dissociation spectroscopy of pyrene dimer radical cations stored in a compact electrostatic ion storage ring
Authors: Bernard J. , Al-Mogeeth A. , Martin S. , Montagne G. , Joblin C. , Dontot L. , Spiegelman F. , Rapacioli M.
Published: February 2021

The gas-phase photodissociation spectrum of pyrene dimer cations was recorded using a compact electrostatic ion storage ring (Mini-Ring) and analyzed using Monte Carlo finite temperature simulations of the electronic photoabsorption spectrum.
Thermal transport by electrons and phonons in PdTe2: an ab initio study
Authors: Li Shouhang , Zhang Xinyu , Bao Hua
Published: February 2021

The electronic and lattice thermal conductivities of the a-axis and c-axis of PdTe2.
High denticity oxinate-linear-backbone chelating ligand for diagnostic radiometal ions [111In]In3+ and [89Zr]Zr4+
Authors: Southcott Lily , Wang Xiaozhu , Wharton Luke , Yang Hua , Radchenko Valery , Kubeil Manja , Stephan Holger , de Guadalupe Jaraquemada-Peláez María , Orvig Chris
Published: February 2021

A potentially decadentate oxinate-containing ligand was synthesized and assessed through solution thermodynamics studies, concentration dependent radiolabeling and serum stability assays with [nat/111In]In3+ and [nat/89Zr]Zr4+.
Advanced manufacturing for electrosynthesis of fuels and chemicals from CO2
Authors: Corral Daniel , Feaster Jeremy T. , Sobhani Sadaf , DeOtte Joshua R. , Lee Dong Un , Wong Andrew A. , Hamilton Julie , Beck Victor A. , Sarkar Amitava , Hahn Christopher , Jaramillo Thomas F. , Baker Sarah E. , Duoss Eric B.
Published: February 2021

Changing the reactor design paradigm for improved CO2electrolyzers through advanced manufacturing.
Frictional behaviour of molten chocolate as a function of fat content
Authors: Rodrigues Sophia A. , Shewan Heather M. , Xu Yuan , Selway Nichola , Stokes Jason R.
Published: February 2021

Stribeck measurements of molten chocolate as a function of decreasing solid content (w/w) between soft contacts reveal deviations from the 'typical' curve result from shear-thinning behaviour and particle exclusion.
Valorization of carbon fiber waste from the aeronautics sector: an application in Li-ion batteries
Authors: Savignac Laurence , Danis Andrew S. , Charbonneau Mathieu , Schougaard Steen B.
Published: February 2021

Recycled carbon fibers coming from the aerospace industry are integrated as the backbone of a high energy density free-standing electrode.
Microfluidic ultrafine particle dosimeter using an electrical detection method with a machine-learning-aided algorithm for real-time monitoring of particle density and size distribution
Authors: Lee Tae-Hoon , Kwon Hong-Beom , Song Woo-Young , Lee Seung-Soo , Kim Yong-Jun
Published: February 2021

A compact, cost-efficient airborne ultrafine particle (UFP) dosimeter that can monitor essential parameters required for accurate UFP dosimetry.
Rational design and bioimaging application of water-soluble Fe3+ fluorescent probes
Authors: Qiu Jianwen , Zhong Chunli , Liu Meng , Yuan Yaofeng , Zhu Hu , Gao Yong
Published: February 2021

The carboxyl group improves the water-solubility of Fe3+ fluorescent probes, while resulting in different performances based on its position.
Mechanical switching of orientation-related photoluminescence in deep-blue 2D layered perovskite ensembles
Authors: Dhanabalan Balaji , Castelli Andrea , Ceseracciu Luca , Spirito Davide , Di Stasio Francesco , Manna Liberato , Krahne Roman , Arciniegas Milena P.
Published: February 2021

The optical anisotropy of layered perovskites is exploited in flexible free-standing polymer films through multiple stretch/release cycles at low tensile stress, to enhance the emission intensity of the resulting composites.
Growth of Au nanoparticles on phosphorylated zein protein particles for use as biomimetic catalysts for cascade reactions at the oil–water interface
Authors: Xi Yongkang , Liu Bo , Wang Shuxin , Huang Xiaonan , Jiang Hang , Yin Shouwei , Ngai To , Yang Xiaoquan
Published: February 2021

A robust chemo- and biocatalytic cascade PIC with a recovery catalyst and a separation product was developed. The results groundbreakingly highlighted the preliminary applications of artificial enzymes and bio-enzymes in a one-pot cascade PIC.
((R)-(−)-3-Hydroxyquinuclidium)[FeCl4]; a plastic hybrid compound with chirality, ferroelectricity and long range magnetic ordering
Authors: González-Izquierdo Palmerina , Fabelo Oscar , Cañadillas-Delgado Laura , Beobide Garikoitz , Vallcorba Oriol , Salgado-Beceiro Jorge , Sánchez-Andújar Manuel , Martin Carmen , Ruiz-Fuentes Javier , García José Eduardo , Fernández-Díaz María Teresa , de Pedro Imanol
Published: February 2021

Scheme of the different phase transitions of ((R)-(−)-3-hydroxyquinuclidium)[FeCl4].
Anionic redox reaction triggered by trivalent Al3+ in P3-Na0.65Mn0.5Al0.5O2
Authors: Shi Ding-Ren , Wang Tian , Shadike Zulipiya , Ma Lu , Yang Xiao-Qing , Chu Shu-Fen , Zhao Zhi-Wei , Peng Zhang-Quan , Fu Zheng-Wen
Published: February 2021

P3-type Na0.65Mn0.5Al0.5O2 (NMAO) exhibits a first charging capacity of ∼110 mA h g−1 with oxygen redox behavior triggered by Al3+.
Mechanistic elucidation of monoalkyltin(iv)-catalyzed esterification
Authors: Wolzak Lukas A. , Hermans Joen J. , de Vries Folkert , van den Berg Keimpe J. , Reek Joost N. H. , Tromp Moniek , Korstanje Ties J.
Published: February 2021

Monoalkyltin-catalyzed esterification was studied under industrially relevant catalytic conditions and was found to have a monomeric active species, with both a monomeric and a dimeric resting state.
Investigation of high-concentration doping performance based on Er3+-ion-doped Ba6Gd2Ti4O17
Authors: Xu Yang , Wang Zhiying , Xu Hanyu , Jia Mochen , Wang Rong , Sheng Tianqi , Sun Zhen , Jin Xiaoyang , Lv Ziqian , Fu Zuoling
Published: February 2021

Investigation of high concentration doping performance based on Er3+ ions doped Ba6Gd2Ti4O17.
Synthesis and reactivity of boryloxorhodium complexes. Relevance to intermolecular transmetalation from boron to rhodium in Rh-catalyzed reactions
Authors: Nishihara Yasushi , Nishide Yasuhiro , Osakada Kohtaro
Published: February 2021

Transmetalation of the organic groups from boron to rhodium is a key step in the rhodium-catalyzed 1,4-addition of arylboronic acids. In this study, rhodium complexes bearing the Rh–O–B moieties were synthesized and characterized by X-ray crystallography.
Choline chloride-promoted efficient solvent-free hydrogenation of biomass-derived levulinic acid to γ-valerolactone over Ru/C
Authors: Liu Huai , Cao Xuejuan , Tang Xing , Zeng Xianhai , Sun Yong , Ke Xixian , Lin Lu
Published: February 2021

The hydrogen bond between LA and ChCl boosted the solvent-free hydrogenation of LA over Ru/C by alleviating the adsorption of the carboxylic group and enhancing the adsorption of the acyl group of LA.
Organosilanes and their magnetic nanoparticles as naked eye red emissive sensors for Ag+ ions and potent anti-oxidants
Authors: Singh Gurjaspreet , Diksha  , Singh Akshpreet , Satija Pinky , Pawan  , Mohit  , González-Silvera D. , Espinosa-Ruíz Cristóbal , Esteban María Angeles
Published: February 2021

This work involves the synthesis of organosilanes as colorimetric sensors for the detection of Ag+ ions, cytotoxicity studies and antioxidant activity.
Mixed supply function‐Cournot equilibrium model of futures and day‐ahead electricity markets
Authors: Banaei Mohsen , Oloomi‐buygi Majid , Raouf‐Sheybani Hani , Khooban Mohammad‐Hassan
Published: February 2021

Futures contract is one of the useful financial derivatives for hedging the market players against the risks of undesirable price fluctuations in the power systems. Market players are allowed to trade electric energy in both futures and day‐ahead electricity markets. The behaviour of market players in each market affects the prices and power transactions of the other market. In this study, the mutual impacts of the futures and day‐ahead electricity markets are studied using a mixed supply function‐Cournot equilibrium model. The day‐ahead electricity market is modelled by Cournot method and futures market negotiations are modelled by the supply function method. The proposed model considers the strategic behaviour of consumers in the futures market, mark‐to‐marketing (MTM) settlement in the futures market, dynamics of market players’ behaviour during the trading period, and transmission system constraints. An upgraded risk management method is also introduced and evaluated. The proposed model is applied to a test system and the impacts of different parameters on the results are discussed.
Compressed sensing Kalman filter estimation scheme for MIMO system under phase noise problem
Authors: El‐Mashed Mohamed G.
Published: February 2021

Phase noise problem in oscillators can degrade the performance of high‐speed communication systems. The author analysed the impact of phase noise problem on multi‐input–multi‐output (MIMO) systems under common and independent oscillators. The estimation of system parameters (i.e. phase noise and channel gains) is a challenging task. In this study, a data‐aided least square estimator based compressed sensing Kalman filter (KF)‐based compressed sensing (CS) scheme is proposed for tracking phase parameters. The signal model and estimation problem for the system are mathematically derived. Also, Bayesian Cramér–Rao lower bound (BCRLB) scheme is also derived. For joint estimation, the mean square error (MSE) and bit error rate (BER) performances of the BCRLBs and proposed scheme are compared. Results demonstrate that the proposed KF‐based CS scheme gives low BER values and better performance compared to other estimation schemes. The utilisation of the proposed scheme helps in reducing the MSE of the MIMO system. Finally, the proposed scheme enhances the estimation of phase noise parameters for the MIMO system.
Performance analysis of incoherent PPM‐OCDMA networks based on optimised modified prime code for multimedia applications
Authors: Morsy Morsy Ahmed , Alsayyari Abdulaziz S.
Published: February 2021

This study presents the design analysis and correlation properties of a new spreading code for the incoherent synchronous pulse position modulation‐optical code division multiple access (PPM‐OCDMA) networks. The proposed code called optimised modified prime code (OMPC), which refers to the modified prime codes (MPCs) family. Additionally, this new code designed at a higher code length, optimised code weight and good correlation characteristics to enhance communication security and improve the bit error rate (BER) performance. In this study, the proposed code is used as source code for different kinds of multimedia services such as data, voice, and video. Furthermore, the characteristics and correlation properties of the OMPC in comparison with the other MPCs families that utilised in the PPM‐OCDMA networks are presented. Moreover, for the PPM‐OCDMA networks, the effect of OMPC auto‐ and cross‐correlation properties on the multiple access interference (MAI) was investigated. Consequently, the MAI is considered in the BER analysis and calculations. Finally, the results show that the proposed OMPC is better than the other existing codes with respect to the channel capacity and system performance.
Friendly co‐existence of phosphorescent white and infrared LEDs in optical wireless communications
Authors: Stepniak Grzegorz , Kowalczyk Marcin , Siuzdak Jerzy
Published: February 2021

In this study, the authors demonstrate that transmission rate in white phosphorescent light emitting diode (LED) transmitter communication‐illumination system can be increased significantly by simultaneous transmission of an additional infrared (IR) channel. Unlike in typical colour multiplexing, the IR channel does not require a dedicated receiver filter as the channel crosstalk can be removed using digital signal processing. Both channels can operate in synchronous or asynchronous mode. The experimental results in this study demonstrate a significant increase in the data rate.