bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The fertility research of "Huajin 6", a new variety of honeysuckle
Authors: Li Runzhu , Chang Hui , Liu Hongyan , Zhang Yongqing , Liang Conglian , Pu Gaobin
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the fertility of "Huajin 6" and the effect of exogenous methyl jasmonate on its fertility. In this study, "Huajin 6", "Huajin 6" treated with methyl jasmonate and "Damaohua" were used as the research objects, the stamen phenotypes and the shape of pollen grains were observed, pollen viability and stigma receptivity were measured. The results showed that the pistil structure and function were normal, and although the stamen anthers did not dehisce, they were still capable of producing pollen with a certain amount of vigor. Methyl jasmonate could promote the opening of the flowers of "Huajin 6" and improve the development of pollen grains to a certain extent, but it could not promote anthers dehiscence of "Huajin 6". This study can provide theoretical guidance for the cultivation of new honeysuckle varieties using "Huajin 6".
Many-excitation removal of a transmon qubit using a single-junction quantum-circuit refrigerator and a two-tone microwave drive
Authors: Teixeira Wallace , Mörstedt Timm , Viitanen Arto , Kivijärvi Heidi , Gunyhó András , Tiiri Maaria , Kundu Suman , Sah Aashish , Vadimov Vasilii , Möttönen Mikko
Published: June 2024

Achieving fast and precise initialization of qubits is a critical requirement for the successful operation of quantum computers. The combination of engineered environments with all-microwave techniques has recently emerged as a promising approach for the reset of superconducting quantum devices. In this work, we experimentally demonstrate the utilization of a single-junction quantum-circuit refrigerator (QCR) for an expeditious removal of several excitations from a transmon qubit. The QCR is indirectly coupled to the transmon through a resonator in the dispersive regime, constituting a carefully engineered environmental spectrum for the transmon. Using single-shot readout, we observe excitation stabilization times down to roughly 500 ns, a 20-fold speedup with QCR and a simultaneous two-tone drive addressing the e–f and f0–g1 transitions of the system. Our results are obtained at a 48-mK fridge temperature and without postselection, fully capturing the advantage of the protocol for the short-time dynamics and the drive-induced detrimental asymptotic behavior in the presence of relatively hot other baths of the transmon. We validate our results with a detailed Liouvillian model truncated up to the three-excitation subspace, from which we estimate the performance of the protocol in optimized scenarios, such as cold transmon baths and fine-tuned driving frequencies. These results pave the way for optimized reset of quantum-electric devices using engineered environments and for dissipation-engineered state preparation.
Repetitive invasive lung function maneuvers do not accentuate experimental fibrosis in mice
Authors: Röpke Tina , Aschenbrenner Franziska , Knudsen Lars , Welte Tobias , Kolb Martin , Maus Ulrich A.
Published: June 2024

Assessment of lung function is an important clinical tool for the diagnosis and monitoring of chronic lung diseases, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). In mice, lung function maneuvers use algorithm-based ventilation strategies including forced oscillation technique (FOT), negative pressure-driven forced expiratory (NPFE) and pressure–volume (PV) maneuvers via the FlexiVent system. This lung function test (LFT) is usually performed as end-point measurement only, requiring several mice for each time point to be analyzed. Repetitive lung function maneuvers would allow monitoring of a disease process within the same individual while reducing the numbers of laboratory animals. However, its feasibility in mice and impact on developing lung fibrosis has not been studied so far. Using orotracheal cannulation without surgical exposure of the trachea, we examined the tolerability to repetitive lung function maneuvers (up to four times) in one and the same mouse, both under healthy conditions and in a model of AdTGF-β1 induced lung fibrosis. In essence, we found that repetitive invasive lung function maneuvers were well tolerated and did not accentuate experimental lung fibrosis in mice. This study contributes to the 3R principle aiming to reduce the numbers of experimental animals used in biomedical research.
Millimeter wave gesture recognition using multi-feature fusion models in complex scenes
Authors: Hao Zhanjun , Sun Zhizhou , Li Fenfang , Wang Ruidong , Peng Jianxiang
Published: June 2024

As a form of body language, the gesture plays an important role in smart homes, game interactions, and sign language communication, etc. The gesture recognition methods have been carried out extensively. The existing methods have inherent limitations regarding user experience, visual environment, and recognition granularity. Millimeter wave radar provides an effective method for the problems lie ahead gesture recognition because of the advantage of considerable bandwidth and high precision perception. Interfering factors and the complexity of the model raise an enormous challenge to the practical application of gesture recognition methods as the millimeter wave radar is applied to complex scenes. Based on multi-feature fusion, a gesture recognition method for complex scenes is proposed in this work. We collected data in variety places to improve sample reliability, filtered clutters to improve the signal’s signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and then obtained multi features involves range-time map (RTM), Doppler-time map (DTM) and angle-time map (ATM) and fused them to enhance the richness and expression ability of the features. A lightweight neural network model multi-CNN-LSTM is designed to gestures recognition. This model consists of three convolutional neural network (CNN) for three obtained features and one long short-term memory (LSTM) for temporal features. We analyzed the performance and complexity of the model and verified the effectiveness of feature extraction. Numerous experiments have shown that this method has generalization ability, adaptability, and high robustness in complex scenarios. The recognition accuracy of 14 experimental gestures reached 97.28%.
Stability assessment of surrounding rock in downward mining route supported by slab-wall backfill structure
Authors: Yin Yu , Yang Shijiao , He Yan , Pan Jian , Guo Zhenpeng , Fan Junwei , Wang Zhipeng
Published: June 2024

Characteristic of ground pressure in surrounding rock is generally considered as the theoretical basis of parameter optimization for stope structure and technology. To explore the feasibility of efficient method for the second-step downward route backfill stopes in Shanjin gold mine, various numerical simulation methods were used to investigate the effect of slab-wall backfill structure on stability of surrounding rock in downward route mining system. The maximum principal stress, artificial false roof stress, and displacement were analyzed to evaluate the level of ground pressure in different mining areas. These results indicate the optimized structural parameters for backfill stopes, which may also provide a low-cost way to achieve a high safety for downward route mining system.
Exploration of using a wall-climbing robot system for indoor inspection in occupied buildings
Authors: Ma Leyuan , Hartmann Timo
Published: June 2024

Indoor inspection robots operating in occupied buildings need to minimize disturbance to occupants and access high areas of a room and cramped spaces obstructed by obstacles for higher inspection coverage. However, existing indoor inspection robots are still unable to meet these requirements. This paper aims to explore the feasibility of applying wall-climbing robots to address these requirements. To this end, we propose a small-sized wall-climbing robot prototype that can move on common indoor surfaces. We extend the proposed prototype to support thermographic inspection by integrating thermal imaging technology into it. Experiment results show that the proposed robot prototype can reach more wall and floor areas for inspection than previously developed indoor inspection robots. It has also been demonstrated that the reduced size and the wall-climbing ability allow the robot to largely avoid human activity areas, thereby reducing disturbance to occupants. This study represents the first attempt to introduce wall-climbing robots into the indoor inspection domain and provides the initial validation of their advantages over existing indoor inspection robots regarding improving inspection coverage and minimizing disturbance to occupants. The findings in this study can provide valuable insights for the future design, selection and application of robotic systems for indoor inspection tasks.
Morphological and molecular data on acuariid nematodes in European great cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis) and pygmy cormorants (Microcarbo pygmaeus)
Authors: Tedesco Perla , Caffara Monica , Davidovich Nadav , Luci Valentina , Cantori Alessia , Fioravanti Maria Letizia , Gustinelli Andrea
Published: June 2024

The family Acuariidae is a speciose group of parasitic nematodes, infecting mostly birds as definitive hosts. This study focused on the characterization of two species of acuariids, collected in two different species of piscivorous birds, the European great cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis from Italy, and the pygmy cormorant Microcarbo pygmaeus from Israel. Parasites were analyzed using light and scanning electron microscopy and by amplification and sequencing of the 28S rDNA. The results of morphological and molecular analyses showed that Ph. carbo sinensis was infected by the acuariid Syncuaria squamata (12 females) and Cosmocephalus obvelatus (1 female), whereas M. pygmaeus was infected by C. obvelatus (2 males, 12 females). The present results provide new data on the distribution of acuariid parasites of piscivorous birds, the first report of Acuariidae in Israel, and the first molecular data on S. squamata and C. obvelatus, which will be useful in future epidemiological and phylogenetic studies of these widely distributed, but less molecularly studied parasites.
Effects of expanded graphite’s structural and elemental characteristics on its oil and heavy metal sorption properties
Authors: Coetzee Divan , Rojviroon Thammasak , Niamlang Sumonman , Militký Jiři , Wiener Jakub , Večerník Josef , Melicheríková Jana , Müllerová Jana
Published: June 2024

Expanded graphite has promising potential environmental applications due to its porous structure and oleophilic nature, which allow it to absorb large quantities of oil. The material is produced by intercalating graphite and applying heat to convert the intercalant into gas to cause expansion between the layers in the graphite. Using different intercalants and temperature conditions results in varying properties of expanded graphite. This work has proven that the sorption properties of commercial expanded graphite differ significantly due to the material’s structural and elemental characteristics, which can be attributed to the intercalation method. This resulted in various degrees of exfoliation of the graphite and possible functionalisation of the graphene sheets within the structure. This affected the material's sorption capacity and its affinity for heavy metal sorption by incorporating selectivity towards the sorption of certain metals. It was found that sample EG3, which underwent a less harsh expansion, exhibited lower porosity than EG1, and thus, the sample absorbed less oil at 37.29 g/g compared to the more expanded samples EG1 and EG2 with 55.16 g/g and 48.82 g/g, respectively. However, it was able to entrap a wider variety of metal particles compared to EG1 and EG2, possibly due to its smaller cavities allowing for a capillary effect between the graphene sheets and greater Van der Waals forces. A second possibility is that ionic or coordination complexes could form with certain metals due to the possible functionalisation of the expanded graphite during the intercalation process. This would be in addition to coordination between the metals and expanded graphite carbon atoms. The findings suggest that there is evidence of functionalisation as determined by XRD and elemental analyses. However, further investigation is necessary to confirm this hypothesis. The findings in this work suggest that the first mechanism of sorption was more likely to be related to the degree of expansion of the expanded graphite. Various metals are present in used oil, and their removal can be challenging. Some metals in oil are not considered heavy since they have a relatively low density but can be associated with heavy metals in terms of toxicity.
Liraglutide exhibits potential anti-tumor effects on the progression of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Trakoonsenathong Ronnakrit , Kunprom Waritta , Aphivatanasiri Chaiwat , Yueangchantuek Padcharee , Pimkeeree Paslada , Sorin Supannika , Khawkhiaw Kullanat , Chiu Ching-Feng , Okada Seiji , Wongkham Sopit , Saengboonmee Charupong
Published: June 2024

Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonist is an emerging anti-diabetic medication whose effects on the risk and progression of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) are controversial. This study aimed to elucidate the roles of GLP-1R and its agonists on intrahepatic CCA (iCCA) progression. Expressions of GLP-1R in iCCA tissues investigated by immunohistochemistry showed that GLP-1R expressions were significantly associated with poor histological grading (P = 0.027). iCCA cell lines, KKU-055 and KKU-213A, were treated with exendin-4 and liraglutide, GLP-1R agonists, and their effects on proliferation and migration were assessed. Exendin-4 and liraglutide did not affect CCA cell proliferation in vitro, but liraglutide significantly suppressed the migration of CCA cells, partly by inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition. In contrast, liraglutide significantly reduced CCA tumor volumes and weights in xenografted mice (P = 0.046). GLP-1R appeared downregulated when CCA cells were treated with liraglutide in vitro and in vivo. In addition, liraglutide treatment significantly suppressed Akt and STAT3 signaling in CCA cells, by reducing their phosphorylation levels. These results suggested that liraglutide potentially slows down CCA progression, and further clinical investigation would benefit the treatment of CCA with diabetes mellitus.
Ending groundwater overdraft without affecting food security
Authors: Perez Nicostrato , Singh Vartika , Ringler Claudia , Xie Hua , Zhu Tingju , Sutanudjaja Edwin H. , Villholth Karen G.
Published: June 2024

Groundwater development is key to accelerating agricultural growth and to achieving food security in a climate crisis. However, the rapid increase in groundwater exploitation over the past four decades has resulted in depletion and degradation, particularly in regions already facing acute water scarcity, with potential irreversible impacts for food security and economic prosperity. Using a climate–water–food systems modelling framework, we develop exploratory scenarios and find that halting groundwater depletion without complementary policy actions would adversely affect food production and trade, increase food prices and grow the number of people at risk of hunger by 26 million by 2050. Supportive policy interventions in food and water systems such as increasing the effective use of precipitation and investments in agricultural research and development could mitigate most negative effects of sustainable groundwater use on food security. In addition, changing preferences of high-income countries towards less-meat-based diets would marginally alleviate pressures on food price. To safeguard the ability of groundwater systems to realize water and food security objectives amidst climate challenges, comprehensive measures encompassing improved water management practices, advancements in seed technologies and appropriate institutions will be needed.
Deep Kernel learning for reaction outcome prediction and optimization
Authors: Singh Sukriti , Hernández-Lobato José Miguel
Published: June 2024

Recent years have seen a rapid growth in the application of various machine learning methods for reaction outcome prediction. Deep learning models have gained popularity due to their ability to learn representations directly from the molecular structure. Gaussian processes (GPs), on the other hand, provide reliable uncertainty estimates but are unable to learn representations from the data. We combine the feature learning ability of neural networks (NNs) with uncertainty quantification of GPs in a deep kernel learning (DKL) framework to predict the reaction outcome. The DKL model is observed to obtain very good predictive performance across different input representations. It significantly outperforms standard GPs and provides comparable performance to graph neural networks, but with uncertainty estimation. Additionally, the uncertainty estimates on predictions provided by the DKL model facilitated its incorporation as a surrogate model for Bayesian optimization (BO). The proposed method, therefore, has a great potential towards accelerating reaction discovery by integrating accurate predictive models that provide reliable uncertainty estimates with BO.
A platform for precise quantification of gene editing products based on microfluidic chip-based digital PCR
Authors: Chi Jingzheng , Ding Lin , Wang Xiaofu , Chen Xiaoyun , Peng Cheng , Xu Junfeng
Published: June 2024

The new generation of gene editing technologies, primarily based on CRISPR/Cas9 and its derivatives, allows for more precise editing of organisms.
Gold catalysis in quinoline synthesis
Authors: Zhao Ximei , Wang Guanghui , Hashmi A. Stephen K.
Published: June 2024

This review provides an overview of gold-catalyzed reactions for quinoline synthesis which have been described so far.
Simple electrochemical synthesis of cyclic hydroxamic acids by reduction of nitroarenes
Authors: Winter Johannes , Lühr Susan , Hochadel Kyra , Gálvez-Vázquez María de Jesús , Prenzel Tobias , Schollmeyer Dieter , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: June 2024

A simple and scalable electrosynthesis of a broad scope of 4-hydroxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-ones was developed by simple reduction of inexpensive nitroarenes.
Methylxanthines for halogen bonded cocrystals with 1,4-diiodotetrafluorobenzene: green synthesis, structure, photophysics and DFT studies
Authors: Benito Mónica , Núñez Rosario , Sinha Sohini , Roscini Claudio , Hidalgo-Rosa Yoan , Schott Eduardo , Zarate Ximena , Molins Elies
Published: June 2024

This work provides new halogen-bonded cocrystals of methylxanthines with 1,4-diiodotetrafluorobenzene. Their crystal structures, thermal and photophysical properties combined with DFT calculations were studied.
Three-dimensional metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) containing substituted diimide ligands: synthesis, structures and gas sorption studies
Authors: Mbonzhe Luccile , Mushango Lufuno , Chatterjee Nabanita , Loots Leigh , Oliver Clive L. , Batisai Eustina
Published: June 2024

This study discusses the synthesis, characterization and gas sorption studies of two MOFs containing substituted diimide ligands.
Morphological evolution of MoxW1−xS2/MoS2 heterostructures modulated with a growth dynamic process by one-step chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Li Zi-Qiao , Wang Qi-Bo , Xu Qin-Qin , Han Zhen-Hua , Cheng Tong , Yin Jian-Zhong
Published: June 2024

By changing the ratio of Mo to W molar concentration, a change in the MoxW1−xS2/MoS2 heterostructure growth mode can be realized.
Edge-sharing water prisms
Authors: Kirov Mikhail V.
Published: June 2024

Regular-shaped water clusters and nanostructures can be of particular interest for the self-assembly of complex structures and functional materials involving water molecules.
The effective prolongation of the excited-state carrier lifetime of CsPbI2Br with applying strain
Authors: Liu Chang , Lin Chundan , Xia Yuhong , Wang Fei , Liu Guodong , Zhou Lulu , Yang Zhenqing
Published: June 2024

Applying 2% tensile and compressive strains to the all-inorganic perovskite CsPbI2Br extends the excited-state carrier lifetimes by 4.7 and 1.6 times, respectively.
Boosting the maximized output energy density of triboelectric nanogenerators
Authors: Guo Ru , Xia Xin , Luo Hang , Zhang Dou , Zi Yunlong
Published: June 2024

A comprehensive strategy including charge excitation, interface insulation, and material screening was employed to achieve a record-high output energy density of 4.3 × 105 J m−3 for a triboelectric nanogenerator.
Activating lattice oxygen by a defect-engineered Fe2O3–CeO2 nano-heterojunction for efficient electrochemical water oxidation
Authors: Huang Qiuping , Xia Guang-Jie , Huang Bo , Xie Dongling , Wang Jianan , Wen Dan , Lin Dunmin , Xu Chenggang , Gao Lei , Wu Zhenduo , Wu Jinqi , Xie Fengyu , Guo Wenhan , Zou Ruqiang
Published: June 2024

Self-supporting Fe2O3–CeO2 nano-heterojunction electrodes with rich oxygen vacancies present high catalytic performance for oxygen evolution reaction, where defect-engineering promotes the interfacial interaction and activates the lattice oxygens.
Co, Zn-coordinated ZIF-derived bimetal encapsulated N-doped CNTs for highly effective oxidation of benzyl alcohol at room temperature
Authors: Li Yulin , Du Wenjie , Wang Jian , Sui Zhuyin , Xu Xiufeng
Published: June 2024

A ZIF-derived carbon framework offered abundant platforms for the rational design and construction of high-performance nonprecious-metal catalysts.
A computational mechanistic study on the Ni-catalyzed asymmetric alkynyl propyl hydroxyaminations: origin of enantioselectivity and further rational design
Authors: Huang Yuqing , Zhu Manman , Zhang Shuqi , Qiao Yue , Zhao Lili
Published: June 2024

DFT calculations were conduct to elucidate the catalytic mechanism of the target asymmetric propargylic substitution (APS) reaction. Moreover, we rationally designed a more efficient axial chiral phosphine ligand for the APS reaction.
Near-infrared light-boosted antimicrobial activity of minocycline/hyaluronan/carbon nanohorn composite toward peri-implantitis treatments
Authors: Konishi Daisuke , Hirata Eri , Takano Yuta , Maeda Yukari , Ushijima Natsumi , Yudasaka Masako , Yokoyama Atsuro
Published: June 2024

A near-infrared responsive composite material (MC/HA/CNH) was developed for the treatment of peri-implantitis. The MC/HA/CNH showed enhanced antimicrobial effect by near-infrared light irradiation, which lasted for 48 hours.
Three-layered nanoplates and amorphous/crystalline interface synergism boost CO2 photoreduction on bismuth oxychloride nanospheres
Authors: Shahid Malik Zeeshan , Chen Zhihao , Mehmood Rashid , Zhang Meng , Pan Danrui , Xu Shishun , Wang Jin , Idris Ahmed Mahmoud , Li Zhengquan
Published: June 2024

Three-layered nanoplates and amorphous/crystalline interfaces in BiOCl nanospheres synergistically accelerate the charge carrier kinetics and exploit the active sites to photoreduce CO2-to-CO with high activity.
Simultaneous exfoliation and functionalization of MoS2 with tetrapyridyl porphyrin
Authors: Garrido Marina , Criado Alejandro , Prato Maurizio
Published: June 2024

We develop a simultaneous exfoliation and functionalization method for MoS2, in which the interactions between tetrapyridyl porphyrin and MoS2 yield dispersions of the hybrid material with good concentrations in chloroform.
Regioselective 5-exo-dig (halo)cyclization of N-propargyloxycarbonyl guanidine derivatives under mild conditions
Authors: Lin Bohong , Ruan Yaoping , Hou Qi , Yuan Zhijun , Liang Yunshi , Zhang Jing
Published: June 2024

Highly regioselective 5-exo-dig (halo)cyclization of N-propargyloxycarbonyl guanidine was developed to provide expedient access to 3-carboximidamide oxazolidones with high (E)-selectivity.
Organo-photoredox catalyzed gem-difluoroallylation of ketone-derived dihydroquinazolinones via C(sp3)–C bond and C(sp3)–F bond cleavage
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zhu Tianshuai , Lin Yuqian , Wei Xian , Xie Xinyu , Lin Ruofan , Zhang Zhijie , Fang Weiwei , Zhang Jing-Jing , Zhang Yue , Hu Meng-Yang , Cai Lingchao , Chen Zhen
Published: June 2024

An organo-photoredox catalyzed defluorinative alkylation of ketone-derived dihydroquinazolinones with α-trifluoromethyl alkenes is described, providing a facile access to a diverse set of gem-difluoroalkenes.
A protocol for hydrogenation of aldehydes and ketones to alcohols in aqueous media at room temperature in high yields and purity
Authors: Wang Xiao-Ge , Ajisafe Monday Peter , Fayad Eman , Katouah Hanadi A. , Qin Hua-Li
Published: June 2024

A protocol for hydrogenation of aldehydes and ketones to alcohols which features excellent atom economy, high chemical discrimination and the use of a ligand-free catalytic system.
Bioanalytical HPLC method with fluorescence detector for determination of Entresto™ when co-administered with ibuprofen and fexofenadine: a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Ahmed Aya R. , Galal Shereen M. , Korany Mohamed A. , Elsheikh Manal A , Bedair Asser F. , Ragab Marwa A. A.
Published: June 2024

In vivo pharmacokinetic interaction of Entresto™ (LCZ696) with ibuprofen and fexofenadine.
Self-assembly and antimicrobial activity of cationic gemini surfactants containing triazole moieties
Authors: Mechken Karima Amel , Menouar Mohammed , Talbi Zahera , Saidi-Besbes Salima , Belkhodja Moulay
Published: June 2024

Antimicrobial 1,2,3-triazole-based bis-quaternary ammonium gemini surfactants.
Ion migration and dark current suppression in quasi-2D perovskite-based X-ray detectors
Authors: Yang Zhenting , Qin Aimiao , Qin Haiqing , Li Zhenlin , Xiang Yong , Liu Hao , Qiu Jinyu , Wang Xinyu
Published: June 2024

Fabrication process of a quasi-two-dimensional structured perovskite with low dark current density and low detection limit.
Design and preparation of four-component eutectogels as a green and efficient catalyst for the one-pot multi-component synthesis of 1,2,4,5-tetrasubstituted and 2,4,5-trisubstituted imidazole derivatives under solvent-free conditions
Authors: Nguyen Phat Ngoc , Tran Trung-Nhan Dong , Nguyen Nhat Minh , Le Viet-Hoang Nguyen , Nguyen Linh Dieu , Tran Phuong Hoang , Nguyen Hai Truong
Published: June 2024

In the past few years, there has been a prominent surge in the exploration of the synthesis of imidazole derivatives in synthetic organic chemistry.
Late-stage peptide modification and macrocyclization enabled by tertiary amine catalyzed tryptophan allylation
Authors: Liu Yuyang , Li Guofeng , Ma Wen , Bao Guangjun , Li Yiping , He Zeyuan , Xu Zhaoqing , Wang Rui , Sun Wangsheng
Published: June 2024

An unprecedented tertiary amine catalyzed peptide allylation between Trp and MBH carbonates was disclosed, to enable late-stage peptide functionalization and macrocyclization both in traditional homogeneous phase and on-resins in SPPS.
Oxidatively-induced C(sp3)–C(sp3) bond formation at a tucked-in iron(iii) complex
Authors: Zurakowski Joseph A. , Durfy Connor S. , Stocek Noah B. , Fanchini Giovanni , Drover Marcus W.
Published: June 2024

Carbon–carbon (C–C) bond formation is a cornerstone of synthetic chemistry, relying on routes such as transition-metal mediated cross-coupling for the introduction of new carbon-based functionality.
Pore development in viscoelastic foods during drying
Authors: van der Sman Ruud , Curatolo Michele , Teresi Luciano
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we present a numerical model that can describe the pore formation/cavitation in viscoelastic food materials during drying.
Langevin dynamics simulations for the critical adsorption of end-grafted active polymers
Authors: Luo Meng-Bo , Shen Yi-Fan
Published: June 2024

The critical surface attraction strength of grafted, active polymers depends on polymer length and active force. The active force has a significantly stronger pulling effect when the rotation of the active head is restricted.
Electrochemical reduction of nitrate to ammonia on ultra-stable amorphous Co–P electrocatalyst
Authors: Fan Jin-Long , Liu Sheng-Bo , Chen Ming-Liang , Wu Zhangxiong , Sun Sheng-Peng , Lou Yao-Yin
Published: June 2024

Electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate (NO3−) to ammonia (NH3) is garnering increasing interest due to its potential to reduce CO2 emissions as a substitute for the Haber-Bosch process, while also mitigating NO3− pollution.
A synergic investigation of experimental and computational dual atom electrocatalysis for CO2 conversion to C1 and C2+ products
Authors: Parmar Saurabh Vinod , Kaur Damanpreet , Avasare Vidya
Published: June 2024

This review delves into the applications of DACs for the eCO2RR, highlighting their pivotal role in producing a range of diverse Cn products. DACs, through their synergistic interactions.
Assembled collagen films modified using polyacrylic acid with improved mechanical properties via mineralization
Authors: Chen Xiaohui , Huang Zhilin , Zhang Shuyun , Li Hong
Published: June 2024

The schematic diagram illustrates the possible mechanism underlying the synergistic effect of polyanion and polycation on the process of mineralization which enhances the mechanical properties of assembled mineralized collagen films.
The Noise Reduction Algorithm May Not Compensate for the Degradation in Output Signal-to-Noise Ratio Caused by Wide Dynamic Range Compression
Authors: Yun Donghyeon , Lentz Jennifer , Shen Yi
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

Most modern hearing aids (HAs) employ wide dynamic range compression (WDRC) and noise reduction (NR) algorithms. It is known that the nonlinear effects of WDRC and NR cause changes to the output signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of an HA. However, the relative contributions of WDRC and NR to the nonlinear effects are not fully understood. The current study investigated (a) whether WDRC or NR dominates the nonlinear effects measured at the output of a digital HA and (b) whether the electroacoustic effectiveness of NR depends on WDRC parameters while input SNR and background noise are systematically varied.

Method:

Test stimuli were Connected Speech Test sentences in multitalker babble noise (2- or 20-talker), presented at input SNRs ranging from −10 to +10 dB. The HA was programmed using multiband WDRC set according to the National Acoustic Laboratories for Nonlinear HA fitting formula 2 prescriptive fits for four standard audiograms and two compression speeds. The NR algorithm of the HA was switched on or off in separate conditions. Nonlinear electroacoustic effects from the WDRC and NR algorithms were assessed by measuring the output SNR of the HA using a phase-inversion technique. To investigate whether there are other factors that may be important besides the output SNR, the Hearing Aid Speech Intelligibility Index and the Hearing Aid Speech Quality Index were applied to the recordings to generate inferences on aided speech intelligibility and perceived speech quality.

Results:

Results showed that WDRC dominated the net nonlinear effect at low-input SNRs, and the net nonlinear effect of WDRC and NR was reduced at high-input SNRs. Results also showed that the effectiveness of NR depended on compression parameters. The effectiveness of NR was partially explained by the trend of Hearing Aid Speech Intelligibility Index and Hearing Aid Speech Quality Index scores, potentially indicating that the Hearing Aid Speech Intelligibility Index and Hearing Aid Speech Quality Index scores may capture factors that cannot be captured by the output SNR metric.

Conclusions:

Results suggest that the individual signal-processing stages in an HA should not be considered as independent. Electroacoustic evaluation of WDRC and NR algorithms in isolation is not sufficient to capture the combined nonlinear effect of the two algorithms.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.25962541
Automated Analysis of Fluency Behaviors in Aphasia
Authors: Fromm Davida , Chern Steffi , Geng Zihan , Kim Mason , Greenhouse Joel , MacWhinney Brian
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

This study explored the use of an automated language analysis tool, FLUCALC, for measuring fluency in aphasia. The purpose was to determine whether CLAN's FLUCALC command could produce efficient, objective outcome measures for salient aspects of fluency in aphasia.

Method:

The FLUCALC command was used on CHAT transcripts of Cinderella stories from people with aphasia (PWA;
n
= 281) and controls (
n
= 257) in the AphasiaBank database.

Results:

PWA produced significantly fewer total words, fewer words per minute, more pausing, more repetitions, more revisions, and more phonological fragments than controls, with only one exception: The Wernicke's group was similar to the control group in percentage of filled pauses. Individuals with Broca's aphasia had significantly longer inter-utterance pauses and fewer total words than all other aphasia groups. Both the Broca's and conduction aphasia groups had higher percentages of phrase repetitions than the NABW (NotAphasicByWAB) group. The conduction aphasia group also had a higher percentage of phrase revisions than the NABW and the anomic aphasia groups. Principal components analysis revealed two principal components that accounted for around 60% of the variance and related to quantity of output, rate of speech, and quality of output. The Gaussian mixture models showed that the participants clustered in three groups, which corresponded predominantly to the controls, the nonfluent aphasia group, and the remaining aphasia groups (all classically fluent aphasia types).

Conclusions:

FLUCALC is an efficient way to measure objective fluency behaviors in language samples in aphasia. Automated analyses of objective fluency behaviors on large samples of adults with and without aphasia can produce measures that can be used by researchers and clinicians to better understand and track salient aspects of fluency in aphasia.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.25979863
Star-by-star dynamical evolution of the physical pair of the Collinder 135 and UBC 7 open clusters
Authors: Ishchenko Maryna , Kovaleva Dana A. , Berczik Peter , Kharchenko Nina V. , Piskunov Anatoly E. , Polyachenko Evgeny , Postnikova Ekaterina , Just Andreas , Borodina Olga , Omarov Chingis , Sobodar Olexandr
Published: June 2024

Context. In a previous paper using Gaia DR2 data, we demonstrated that the two closely situated open clusters Collinder 135 and UBC 7 might have formed together about 50 Myr ago.

Aims. In this work, we performed star-by-star dynamical modelling of the evolution of the open clusters Collinder 135 and UBC 7 from their supposed initial state to their present-day state, reproducing observational distributions of members.

Methods. Modelling of the Collinder 135 and UBC 7 dynamical evolution was done using the high-order parallel N-body code φ-GPU with up-to-date stellar evolution. Membership and characteristics of the clusters were acquired based on Gaia DR3 data.

Results. The comparison of the present-day radial cumulative star count obtained from the N-body simulations with the current observational data gave us full consistency of the model with observational data, especially in the central 8 pc, where 80% of the stars reside. The proper motion velocity components obtained from the N-body simulations of the stars are also quite consistent with the observed distributions and error bars.

Conclusions. These results show that our numerical modelling is able to reproduce the open clusters’ current complex 6D observed phase-space distributions with a high level of confidence. Thus, the model demonstrates that the hypothesis of a common origin of Collinder 135 and UBC 7 complies with present-day observational data.
Candidate young stellar objects in the S-cluster: Kinematic analysis of a subpopulation of the low-mass G objects close to Sgr A*
Authors: Peißker F. , Zajaček M. , Melamed M. , Ali B. , Singhal M. , Dassel T. , Eckart A. , Karas V.
Published: June 2024

Context. The observation of several L-band emission sources in the S cluster has led to a rich discussion of their nature. However, a definitive answer to the classification of the dusty objects requires an explanation for the detection of compact Doppler-shifted Brγ emission. The ionized hydrogen in combination with the observation of mid-infrared L-band continuum emission suggests that most of these sources are embedded in a dusty envelope. These embedded sources are part of the S-cluster, and their relationship to the S-stars is still under debate. To date, the question of the origin of these two populations has been vague, although all explanations favor migration processes for the individual cluster members.

Aims. This work revisits the S-cluster and its dusty members orbiting the supermassive black hole Sgr A* on bound Keplerian orbits from a kinematic perspective. The aim is to explore the Keplerian parameters for patterns that might imply a nonrandom distribution of the sample. Additionally, various analytical aspects are considered to address the nature of the dusty sources.

Methods. Based on the photometric analysis, we estimated the individual H − K and K − L colors for the source sample and compared the results to known cluster members. The classification revealed a noticeable contrast between the S-stars and the dusty sources. To fit the flux-density distribution, we utilized the radiative transfer code HYPERION and implemented a young stellar object Class I model. We obtained the position angle from the Keplerian fit results; additionally, we analyzed the distribution of the inclinations and the longitudes of the ascending node.

Results. The colors of the dusty sources suggest a stellar nature consistent with the spectral energy distribution in the near and mid-infrared domains. Furthermore, the evaporation timescales of dusty and gaseous clumps in the vicinity of Sgr A* are much shorter (≪2 yr) than the epochs covered by the observations (≈15 yr). In addition to the strong evidence for the stellar classification of the D-sources, we also find a clear disk-like pattern following the arrangements of S-stars proposed in the literature. Furthermore, we find a global intrinsic inclination for all dusty sources of 60 ± 20°, implying a common formation process.

Conclusions. The pattern of the dusty sources manifested in the distribution of the position angles, inclinations, and longitudes of the ascending node strongly suggests two different scenarios: the main-sequence stars and the dusty stellar S-cluster sources share a common formation history or migrated with a similar formation channel in the vicinity of Sgr A*. Alternatively, the gravitational influence of Sgr A* in combination with a massive perturber, such as a putative intermediate mass black hole in the IRS 13 cluster, forces the dusty objects and S-stars to follow a particular orbital arrangement.
Cystic echinococcosis (Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato infection) in Tunisia, a One Health perspective for a future control programme
Authors: Gharbi Mohamed , Giraudoux Patrick
Published: June 2024

The emergence of pandemics with dramatic consequences for human health has obscured endemic diseases that continue to pose a problem for human and animal health in several regions of the world. Among these diseases, cystic echinococcosis, a zoonotic parasitic infection caused by a group of cestodes, Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato, remains a real human and animal health problem in several regions of the world, including the Mediterranean Basin. Despite the implementation of a number of governmental control programmes using several tools (dog treatment, meat inspection, etc.), this infection is still highly prevalent in North Africa. Here we present a review of the epidemiology of cystic echinococcosis in Tunisia, an analysis of the constraints limiting the effectiveness of the control programmes implemented, and finally argue for the use of the One Health framework to improve the effectiveness of future programmes.
Parallel implementation of an exact two-phase method for the biobjective knapsack problem
Authors: Chaabane Khadidja , Bouroubi Sadek , Djellouli Younes
Published: June 2024

This paper introduces a parallel implementation of an exact two-phase method for solving the bi-objective knapsack problem on a CPU-GPU system. We utilize the Branch-and-Bound procedure in both phases, along with a highly efficient reduction technique to generate all efficient solutions. However, in the first phase, we focus on identifying all supported extreme efficient solutions, followed by reducing the dimension of the problem using an object efficiency reduction algorithm. The second phase is responsible for generating all unsupported efficient solutions. We develop a combined algorithm incorporating both phases, which is implemented in the CUDA language. Our study investigates the impact of parallel computing performance on various numerical instances compared to other exact methods in the literature. Additionally, we confirm the effectiveness of our proposed parallel-solving method by testing uncorrelated instances.
Lichtdermatosen
Authors: Troyanova-Slavkova Svetoslava
Published: June 2024

Der Begriff Lichtdermatosen beschreibt eine heterogene Gruppe von Hauterkrankungen, die durch die Einwirkung von ultravioletter oder sichtbarer Sonnenstrahlung ausgelöst oder verschlimmert wird 1. Echte Lichtdermatosen sind Krankheiten, die durch abnormale Reaktionen auf Sonnenlicht verursacht werden. Ungewöhnliche Reaktionen wie diese müssen von gewöhnlichen Reaktionen auf Sonnenlicht wie Sonnenbrand unterschieden werden 2. Photodermatosen betreffen Menschen in jeder Altersgruppe. Eine oft schwierige Diagnosesicherung ist wichtig, um mit präziser Therapie den jeweils individuellen Sonnenschutz zu erreichen.

Mit der Einteilung von primären und sekundären Lichtdermatosen werden grundsätzlich auch akute und chronische Verlaufsformen unterschieden. Primäre Lichtdermatosen sind eine eigene Krankheitsentität und werden durch photosensibilisierende Substanzen hervorgerufen. Bei unbekannter Ätiologie spricht man von idiopathischen primären Lichtdermatosen. Die sekundären Lichtdermatosen sind die Folge von anderen Grunderkrankungen, z.B. von Stoffwechselerkrankungen oder Gendefekten 3.

Mit dem folgenden Artikel soll dem Leser zu einem besseren Verständnis von Diagnostik und
Therapie der primären Lichtdermatosen verholfen werden.
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound features of hepatic angiomyolipoma:
comparison with AFP-negative and non-viral hepatocellular
carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Yafang , Guo Zhi-xing , Liao Ying , Yu Yiwen , Guo Ruohan , Han Xu , Lan Lilong , Zhou Jianhua
Published: June 2024

Purpose This study aimed to compare contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS)
features of hepatic angiomyolipoma (HAML) and challenging cases of HCC, mainly
those with no hepatitis infection but also with a low level of AFP (non-viral
AFP- HCC).

Materials and Methods The study included pathologically confirmed HAMLs
and non-viral AFP- HCCs undergoing CEUS from 2012 to 2023. Sonovue (SV) CEUS and
Sonazoid (SZ) CEUS characteristics of the two groups were compared.

Results The study included 50 HAMLs (24% on SZ-CEUS) and 88 non-viral AFP-
HCCs (21.6% on SZ-CEUS). The CEUS characteristics on SZ-CEUS were similar to
those on SV-CEUS to a certain extent. HAMLs more frequently displayed no washout
and partial washout with partial no washout, so-called PWNW, in the late phase
and post-vascular phase, whereas HCCs more commonly exhibited mild washout. In
the post-vascular phase, all non-viral AFP- HCCs exhibited washout, thereby
facilitating differentiation from no-washoutHAMLs, superior to SV-CEUS, where
some non-viral AFP- HCCs still exhibited no washout in late phase that could not
be distinguished from HAMLs. It is noteworthy that PWNW was exclusively found in
nodules exhibiting hyper- and hypoechoic separation of the nodules, and hyper-
and hypoechoic separation of HAMLs in the post-vascular phase on SZ-CEUS
demonstrated PWNW more frequently compared to the late phase, which can
potentially help distinguish nodules with hyper- and hypoechoic separation as
either HAML or non-viral AFP- HCC. Conclusion: This study highlighted the
usefulness of SV- and SZ-CEUS for distinguishing HAML and non-viral AFP- HCC and
filled in existing gaps regarding the SZ-CEUS features of HAML.
Speech Outcomes after Delayed Hard Palate Closure and Synchronous Secondary Alveolar Bone Grafting in Patients with Cleft Lip, Alveolus and Palate
Authors: Haj Mona , Hakkesteegt S.N. , Poldermans H.G. , de Gier H.H.W. , Versnel S.L. , Wolvius E.B.
Published: June 2024

Background The best timing of closure of the hard palate in individuals with cleft lip, alveolus, and palate (CLAP) to reach the optimal speech outcomes and maxillary growth is still a subject of debate. This study evaluates changes in compensatory articulatory patterns and resonance in patients with unilateral and bilateral CLAP who underwent simultaneous closure of the hard palate and secondary alveolar bone grafting (ABG).

Methods A retrospective study of patients with nonsyndromic unilateral and bilateral CLAP who underwent delayed hard palate closure (DHPC) simultaneously with ABG at 9 to 12 years of age from 2013 to 2018. The articulatory patterns, nasality, degree of hypernasality, facial grimacing, and speech intelligibility were assessed pre- and postoperatively.

Results Forty-eight patients were included. DHPC and ABG were performed at the mean age of 10.5 years. Postoperatively hypernasal speech was still present in 54% of patients; however, the degree of hypernasality decreased in 67% (p < 0.001). Grimacing decreased in 27% (p = 0.015). Articulation disorders remained present in 85% (p = 0.375). Intelligible speech (grade 1 or 2) was observed in 71 compared with 35% of patients preoperatively (p < 0.001).

Conclusion This study showed an improved resonance and intelligibility following DHPC at the mean age of 10.5 years, however compensatory articulation errors persisted. Sequential treatments such as speech therapy play a key role in improvement of speech and may reduce remaining compensatory mechanisms following DHPC.
Normative Radiographic Measurements of Scaphoid in a Sample Indian Population
Authors: Bhat Anil K. , G. Mithun Pai , Singh Amanpreet
Published: June 2024

Introduction Wrist parameters measured on direct radiography are essential in diagnosing scaphoid-related pathologies and treatment. Although computed tomography has been used to establish normative for scaphoid measurement, no research has focused on Indian norms. This study aimed to determine the distribution and normal limits of parameters measured in our population's posteroanterior (PA) and direct lateral radiographs of the wrist.

Materials and Methods Two investigators conducted a prospective analysis of normal wrist radiographs in a single center. Radiology information system-picture archiving and communication system was used to collect standard digitized normal X-rays without significant osseous pathology over a year. The sample size was 600, distributed among age groups 18 to 30, 31 to 50, and 51 years and above. Scaphoid length, scaphoid width, scapholunate ratio, and scapholunate distance using both Cautilli and Gilula techniques were measured on a PA view, and scapholunate, radioscaphoid, and intrascaphoid angles were measured on a lateral view. As the lunate morphology is supposed to affect carpal kinematics with the scaphoid, the same was evaluated using the Viegas classification.

Results A total of eight measurements were documented. Scaphoid length, scaphoid width measurements, and lateral intrascaphoid angle were more in males than in females and were found to be statistically significant. No other parameters showed any significance in terms of age and relation to lunate morphology.

Conclusion The study offers a comprehensive analysis of measuring parameters specific to the Indian population. For the first time, the measurement of scapholunate distance was conducted utilizing two distinct methodologies. The normative intrascaphoid angle range and clinical implications were determined.