bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent progress of inertial microfluidic-based cell separation
Authors: Xu Xuefeng , Huang Xiwei , Sun Jingjing , Wang Renjie , Yao Jiangfan , Han Wentao , Wei Maoyu , Chen Jin , Guo Jinhong , Sun Lingling , Yin Ming
Published: November 2021

A comprehensive review of recent progress in inertial microfluidics with special focus on multistage cell separation and detection devices in addition to straight and curved channels.
Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy on localized silver nanoparticle-decorated porous silicon substrate
Authors: Tsao Chia-Wen , Zheng You-Shan , Sun Ya-Sen , Cheng Yu-Che
Published: November 2021

We use a simple, low-cost electroless etching and deposition process to create a localized silver nanoparticle decorated surface porous silicon (LocAg-PS). The LocAg-PS surface exhibits self-align and sample condensation capabilities for SERS analysis.
A phenothiazine-based turn-on fluorescent probe for the selective detection of hydrogen sulfide in food, live cells and animals
Authors: Hu Yaoyun , Shang Zhuye , Wang Juan , Hong Min , Zhang Run , Meng Qingtao , Zhang Zhiqiang
Published: November 2021

A phenothiazine-based fluorescent probe features high selectivity and sensitivity, low cytotoxicity and reliability at physiological pH, enabling the detection of H2S in biosystems and monitoring H2S produced in the foods spoilage process.
Iodide-enhanced Cu-MOF nanomaterials for the amplified colorimetric detection of Fe3+
Authors: Guan Yan , Zhao Xiao-Lan , Li Qiu-Xia , Huang Long , Yang Jian-Mei , Yang Tong , Yang Yun-Hui , Hu Rong
Published: November 2021

In this paper, a novel colorimetric strategy based on iodide ion (I−) and Cu-MOF catalysis was developed for simple, low-cost, and naked-eye detection of Fe3+.
Kissing loop-mediated fabrication of RNA nanoparticles and their potential as cellular and in vivo siRNA delivery platforms
Authors: Kim Kyoung-Ran , Kim Junghyun , Mao Chengde , Ahn Dae-Ro
Published: November 2021

Embedding the kissing loop sequences in the RNA strands generated by rolling circle transcription is an efficient way to prepare RNA nanoparticles having a size suitable for cellular uptake and tumor accumulation.
From Raman to SESORRS: moving deeper into cancer detection and treatment monitoring
Authors: Sloan-Dennison Sian , Laing Stacey , Graham Duncan , Faulds Karen
Published: November 2021

This article discusses the use of various Raman spectroscopy techniques and how they have been applied to different methods of detection for the diagnosis of cancer and in monitoring cancer treatment, with an outlook on how they can progress into a clinical environment.
π-Conjugated-polymer-based nanofibers through living crystallization-driven self-assembly: preparation, properties and applications
Authors: Ma Junyu , Lu Guolin , Huang Xiaoyu , Feng Chun
Published: November 2021

π-Conjugated-polymer-based nanofibers endowed with both topological merits from fiber-like nanostructures and structural merits from π-conjugated polymers represent one of the most exciting and rapidly expanding fields.
Surface presentation of the noncanonical Wnt5a motif to cytotoxic CD8+ T-cells promotes their mechanotransduction and activation
Authors: Li Rui , Ali Walida , Ma Chao , Bajpai Apratim , Luu Ngoc , Varshney Aarushi , Rowe Camden Riley , Chen Weiqiang
Published: November 2021

Decoration of the Wnt5a mimetic peptide Foxy5 on a PDMS elastomer substrate promotes the mechanotransduction and activation of cytotoxic T cells.
KB3H8: an environment-friendly reagent for the selective reduction of aldehydes and ketones to alcohols
Authors: Li Xinying , Mi Tongge , Guo Wenjing , Ruan Zhongrui , Guo Yu , Ma Yan-Na , Chen Xuenian
Published: November 2021

Selective reduction of aldehydes and ketones to alcohols using KB3H8 was achieved in water and THF.
Amino acid hydrogen oxalate quasiracemates – sulfur containing side chains
Authors: Wells Russell G. , Sahlstrom Katriel D. , Wheeler Kraig A.
Published: November 2021

A new family of quasiracemic materials constructed from sulfur-containing amino acid hydrogen oxalates form supramolecular assemblies that divert significantly from near centrosymmetric alignment.
Mechanistic insights into the effects of key mutations on SARS-CoV-2 RBD–ACE2 binding
Authors: Aggarwal Abhishek , Naskar Supriyo , Maroli Nikhil , Gorai Biswajit , Dixit Narendra M. , Maiti Prabal K.
Published: November 2021

Significant secondary structural changes in the SARS-CoV-2 RBD upon single (N501Y), double (E484Q and L452R) and triple (N501Y, E484Q, and L452R) mutations lead to different binding affinities of the variants to the human ACE2 receptor.
Enzyme-photo-coupled catalytic systems
Authors: Zhang Shaohua , Liu Shusong , Sun Yiying , Li Shihao , Shi Jiafu , Jiang Zhongyi
Published: November 2021

Recent advances in enzyme-photo-coupled catalytic systems are reviewed and highlighted from the perspective of system engineering.
Solvent-controlled elongation and mechanochemical strain in a metal–organic framework
Authors: Półrolniczak Aleksandra , Sobczak Szymon , Nikolayenko Varvara I. , Barbour Leonard J. , Katrusiak Andrzej
Published: November 2021

The chiral photoresponsive DMOF shows different negative linear compressibility depending on the nature of the compression environment.
TiN@C nanocages as multifunctional sulfur hosts for superior lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Zhang Ning , Zheng Shuangshuang , Zhao Menglong , Lu Yang , Cheng Jinbing , Yang Ya , Peng Tao , Luo Yongsong
Published: November 2021

Polar TiN nanoparticles not only exhibit chemisorption capacity for LiPSs, but also catalyze and promote the conversion of LiPSs both in reduction and oxidation process.
The influence of ring strain on the formation of Si–H–Si stabilised oligosilanylsilyl cations
Authors: Nimoth Jelte P. , Müller Thomas
Published: November 2021

Ring strain wins over entropy in the formation of inter- vs. intramolecularly 3c2e Si–H–Si bridged oligosilanylsilyl cations.
Lactobacillus casei ATCC 393 and it's metabolites alleviate dextran sulphate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis in mice through the NLRP3-(Caspase-1)/IL-1β pathway
Authors: Dou Xina , Qiao Lei , Chang Jiajing , Yan Shuqi , Song Xiaofan , Chen Yue , Xu Qinhong , Xu Chunlan
Published: November 2021

L. casei ATCC 393 and its metabolites alleviated the DSS-induced ulcerative inflammatory response in C57BL/6 mice through the NLRP3-(Caspase-1)/IL-1β signaling pathway and improved DSS-induced microbiota dysbiosis.
Formononetin reshapes the gut microbiota, prevents progression of obesity and improves host metabolism
Authors: Naudhani Mahrukh , Thakur Kiran , Ni Zhi-Jing , Zhang Jian-Guo , Wei Zhao-Jun
Published: November 2021

Present research provides new insight for introducing formononetin as a novel prospective natural prebiotic and its effective dosage to reshape the gut microbiota and reduce obesity and associated complications.
Polyphenol extract and essential oil of Amomum tsao-ko equally alleviate hypercholesterolemia and modulate gut microbiota
Authors: Liu Lijun , Zhao Yimin , Ming Jian , Chen Jia , Zhao Guohua , Chen Zhen-Yu , Wang Yujie , Lei Lin
Published: November 2021

This study explored the effects of polyphenol extract (TKP) and essential oil (TKO) from Amomum tsao-ko Crevost et Lemaire (tsao-ko) on plasma total cholesterol and gut microbiota.
White light emitting silsesquioxane based materials: the importance of a ligand with rigid and directional arms
Authors: Santiago-Portillo Andrea , Cinà Valerio , Carbonell Esther , Fusaro Luca , Lemaur Vincent , Lazzaroni Roberto , Gruttadauria Michelangelo , Giacalone Francesco , Aprile Carmela
Published: November 2021

A POSS functionalized with eight rigid and directional terpyridine arms was synthesized. After complexation with europium, a white light emission ascribed to the presence of combined contributions from the blue, green and red regions was detected.
Construction of a selective non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor based on hollow nickel nanospheres/carbon dots–chitosan and molecularly imprinted polymer film for the detection of glucose
Authors: Wu Haiyan , Zheng Wei , Jiang Yan , Xu Jicheng , Qiu Fengxian
Published: November 2021

A non-enzymatic glucose electrochemical sensor platform was fabricated by assembling hollow nickel nanospheres/carbon dots–chitosan and molecularly imprinted polymer film modified a glass carbon electrode.
Enhanced photocatalytic nitrogen fixation in BiVO4: constructing oxygen vacancies and promoting electron transfer through Ohmic contact
Authors: Wang Libo , Li Mohan , Wang Shiyu , Zhang Tingting , Li Fengyan , Xu Lin
Published: November 2021

The Ag nanoparticles deposited on the surface of BiVO4 containing oxygen vacancies are employed in photocatalytic N2 fixation. The NH3 generation rate is enhanced by constructing abundant oxygen vacancies and promoting electron transfer by Ohmic contact.
Benefiting from big data in natural products: importance of preserving foundational skills and prioritizing data quality
Authors: Cech Nadja B. , Medema Marnix H. , Clardy Jon
Published: November 2021

Big data is changing how we do natural products research and creating exciting new possibilities. Continued attention to enhancing data quality, increasing access, and preserving foundational skills is needed.
Unexpected hydrophobicity on self-assembled monolayers terminated with two hydrophilic hydroxyl groups
Authors: Mao Dangxin , Wang Xian , Wu Yuanyan , Gu Zonglin , Wang Chunlei , Tu Yusong
Published: November 2021

An unexpected hydrophobicity with a contact angle of 82° on (OH)2-SAM terminated only with two hydrophilic OH groups was found, which is attributed to the formation of a hexagonal-ice-like H-bonding structure in the OH matrix of (OH)2-SAM.
Thermo-enhanced photocatalytic oxidation of amines to imines over MIL-125-NH2@Ag@COF hybrids under visible light
Authors: Li Xiangjun , Zhang Kaiyue , Huang Xiubing , Wu Zhenyu , Zhao Danfeng , Wang Ge
Published: November 2021

MIL-125-NH–CH2OH@Ag@COF is constructed by an in situ auto-reduction strategy and subsequent coating with a COF. The conversion of benzylamine at 60 °C is nearly twice as high as that at 20 °C under visible light irradiation.
Creation of polymeric nanostructures by living coordination block copolymerization of allene derivatives with fluoroalkyl substituents under polymerization-induced self-assembly conditions and their application to superhydrophobic surfaces
Authors: Cheng Yidan , Wakiya Takeshi , Inagi Shinsuke , Takata Toshikazu , Tomita Ikuyoshi
Published: November 2021

Block copolymer micelles with a fluorous corona were synthesized via living allene polymerization in fluorous media and a polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA) process, resulting in excellent superhydrophobic optically transparent coatings.
Mechanisms and origins of regioselectivities of nickel-catalyzed β,δ-vinylarylation of alkenyl esters with vinyl triflates and arylzinc reagents
Authors: Li Yupan , Xu Wan , Wang Ting , Chen Hui , Li Juan
Published: November 2021

DFT calculations were performed to explore the mechanisms, origins of regioselectivity and substituent-controlled reactivity in the β,δ-vinylarylation of alkenyl esters catalyzed by nickel catalysts.
Green synthesis, structural analysis and anticancer activity of dihydropyrimidinone derivatives
Authors: Dowarah Jayanta , Patel Devanshi , Marak Brilliant N. , Yadav Umesh Chand Singh , Shah Pramod Kumar , Shukla Pradeep Kumar , Singh Ved Prakash
Published: November 2021

Green synthesis, study and development of new potent dihydropyrimidinone analogues as anti-cancer drugs.
Synthesis of dimethyl carbonate from methanol and CO2 under low pressure
Authors: Liu Kai , Liu Chun
Published: November 2021

A mild and efficient approach for the synthesis of dimethyl carbonate from methanol and CO2 under low initial pressure was developed.
A review on phytochemical constituents and pharmacological potential ofCalotropis procera
Authors: Wadhwani Barkha Darra , Mali Deepak , Vyas Pooja , Nair Rashmy , Khandelwal Poonam
Published: November 2021

Calotropis procerais also known asAakorMadar.The present review provides a systematic outline of phytochemistry, toxicology, pharmacology and therapeutic potential ofCalotropis procera.
Spin filtering controller induced by phase transitions in fluorographane
Authors: Sun Cuicui , Jiang Yingjie , Wang Yanmin , Liu Xiao-Cun , Wu Yanling , Ding Yongling , Zhang Guiling
Published: November 2021

The fluorographane realizes a phase transition and perfect spin filtering controller by changing the edge C magnetization direction. The perfect spin current switching was attributed to the synergistic effect between the sp2 and sp3 hybridization.
Pre-service chemistry teachers’ use of pedagogical transformation competence to develop topic-specific pedagogical content knowledge for planning to teach acid–base equilibrium
Authors: Aydin-Gunbatar Sevgi , Akin Fatma Nur
Published: November 2021

In this study based on mixed-methods design, we aimed to examine to what extent the participants underwent pedagogical transformation and developed topic-specific pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) for planning to teach acid–base equilibrium. Training for the acquisition of pedagogical transformation competence to develop topic-specific PCK was provided for 12 weeks during the teaching methods course. Through this intervention, the participants were taught pedagogical transformation competence in different chemistry topics and were supposed to employ it in another topic that was not covered through the intervention. To fulfill this aim, the use of explicit discussions of the transformation of content knowledge as a teaching strategies and explicit topic-specific PCK use were provided throughout the intervention. A total of 13 junior pre-service chemistry teachers participated in the intervention. The content knowledge test, Content Representation (CoRe), semi-structured interviews, focus group interview, and reflection papers were the data sources. A rubric created by the researchers was used to analyse the pre- and post-CoRe data to determine to what extent the participants could develop topic-specific PCK for planning to teach the acid–base equilibrium topic, which was not discussed through the intervention. The results showed that 11 of the 13 participants could achieve transfer of what they had learnt and experienced during the intervention to plan for a new topic, and this was identified as an enrichment of at least one topic-specific PCK component. This study presented an uneven development of topic-specific PCK components as a product of the transformation. The findings revealed that the participants showed more progress in transferring content knowledge to students’ difficulties and alternative conceptions, and instructional strategies than in the assessment component of topic-specific PCK. This study provided valuable information about pre-service teachers’ use of the pedagogical transformation competence acquired during the intervention to develop topic-specific PCK for planning to teach acid–base equilibrium and the development of the knowledge of assessment. Implications for both the enrichment of science/chemistry teacher education and future research were presented.
Enhanced photoreduction of water catalyzed by a cucurbit[8]uril-secured platinum dimer
Authors: Rabbani Ramin , Saeedi Sima , Nazimuddin Md , Barbero Héctor , Kyritsakas Nathalie , White Travis A. , Masson Eric
Published: November 2021

The cucurbit[8]uril macrocycle can secure a platinum terpyridyl complex into a particularly reactive dimer that catalyzes the photoreduction of water.
Achieving flexible large-scale reactivity tuning by controlling the phase, thickness and support of two-dimensional ZnO
Authors: Lin Le , Zeng Zhenhua , Fu Qiang , Bao Xinhe
Published: November 2021

Flexible large-scale reactivity tuning is achieved by manipulating the phase, thickness and support of two-dimensional ZnO, and a broken scaling relationship between adsorption and barrier is found via phase and termination engineering.
Non-destructive determination of functionalized polyelectrolyte placement in layer-by-layer films by IR ellipsometry
Authors: Cho Szu-Hao , Lewis Elizabeth A. , Zacharia Nicole S. , Vogt Bryan D.
Published: November 2021

IR ellipsometry enables non-destructive characterization of stratification in layer-by layer films with minimal chemical differences associated with functionalized polyelectrolytes.
Coarse-grained theory for motion of solitons and skyrmions in liquid crystals
Authors: Long Cheng , Selinger Jonathan V.
Published: November 2021

A coarse-grained theory is developed to characterize the motion of topological structures in nematic liquid crystals under the effect of a changing external field, and the mechanism of the squirming motion for a skyrmion is elucidated.
A comparative overview of carbon anodes for nonaqueous alkali metal-ion batteries
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Zhao Siwei , Huang Fuqiang
Published: November 2021

The review elaborates on the mechanism of alkali metal ion storage of various carbon materials and several engineering strategies for improving carbon-based alkali metal ion batteries.
Efficient separation of xylene isomers by using a robust calcium-based metal–organic framework through a synergetic thermodynamically and kinetically controlled mechanism
Authors: Lin Yuhan , Zhang Jian , Pandey Haardik , Dong Xinglong , Gong Qihan , Wang Hao , Yu Liang , Zhou Kang , Yu Wei , Huang Xiaoxi , Thonhauser Timo , Han Yu , Li Jing
Published: November 2021

A microporous metal–organic framework with a robust structure has been developed. The compound exhibited highly efficient separation of xylene isomers which is a result of a synergetic thermodynamic and kinetic mechanism.
A tailored spacer molecule in 2D/3D heterojunction for ultralow-voltage-loss and stable perovskite solar cells
Authors: Fan Weili , Shen Ying , Deng Kaimo , Chen Qinghua , Bai Yang
Published: November 2021

2D/3D heterojunction engineering has been regarded as a feasible method to improve the photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). A tailored spacer molecule, 4-hydroxy-phenylethylamine iodide, is developed for high-performance 2D/3D PSCs.
Nanoscale mineralization of cell-laden methacrylated gelatin hydrogels using calcium carbonate–calcium citrate core–shell microparticles
Authors: Subbiah Ramesh , Balbinot Gabriela de Souza , Athirasala Avathamsa , Collares Fabricio Mezzomo , Sereda Grigoriy , Bertassoni Luiz E.
Published: November 2021

Bone-like scaffolds were developed using a facile microparticles-assisted nanoscale mineralization of human mesenchymal stem cell-laden hydrogels.
Atom transfer radical-polymerized cationic shells on gold nanoparticles for near infrared-triggered photodynamic therapy of tumor-bearing animals
Authors: Pham-Nguyen Oanh-Vu , Lee Ju Won , Park Yeonju , Jin Sila , Kim Song Rae , Jung Young Mee , Yoo Hyuk Sang
Published: November 2021

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were surface-engineered with a cationic corona to enhance the incorporation of photosensitizers for PDT.
Synthesis, phase purification and magnetic characterization of the (Cr1−x, Mnx)2AlC MAX-phase
Authors: Sobolev Kirill , Pazniak Hanna , Farle Michael , Rodionova Valeria , Wiedwald Ulf
Published: November 2021

The Cr2AlC MAX phase is a promising parent compound to introduce magnetism to nano-laminated ternary carbides by doping with Mn.
Elucidating the role of metal-ion co-doping towards boosting upconversion luminescence in gadolinium vanadate
Authors: Chauhan Aditya , Kataria Smile , Busko Dmitry , Cardona Fernando Arteaga , Turshatov Andrey , Richards Bryce S.
Published: November 2021

Effect of (a) particle size, (b) lattice shrinkage, and (c) vacancies on the upconversion luminescence in GdVO4:Yb3+/Er3+. The colored spheres represent the different systems (left) with the respective volumes being proportional to the quantum yield.
Applying intermolecular hydrogen bonding to exploit TADF emitters for high-performance orange-red non-doped OLEDs
Authors: Shi Yi-Zhong , Wang Kai , Fan Xiao-Chun , Wu Hao , Ou Xue-Mei , Yu Jia , Jie Jian-Sheng , Zhang Xiao-Hong
Published: November 2021

Suitable intermolecular hydrogen bonding interactions enable head-against-tailed 3D supramolecular frameworks and high-performance orange-red non-doped OLEDs were thus realized.
Purely organic Vis-to-UV upconversion with an excited annihilator singlet beyond 4 eV
Authors: Zähringer Till J. B. , Bertrams Maria-Sophie , Kerzig Christoph
Published: November 2021

Biphenyl at its best: a (triisopropylsilyl)ethynyl group in para position converts biphenyl into a UV annihilator that is successfully employed for blue-to-UV upconversion with unprecedented output photon energies.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication Course Design and Features: A Survey of Expert Faculty and Instructors
Authors: Sauerwein Allison M. , Burris Mackenzie M.
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

Multiple surveys have been used to investigate augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) coursework offered in speech-language pathology programs in the last 3 decades. These studies primarily explored the availability of AAC courses and reported a limited number of course characteristics. Because few studies to date have specifically examined the AAC course design, the purpose of this study was to investigate the design and features of AAC coursework, such as learning objectives, course content, assignments, and readings and resources, currently taught in the United States.

Method:

An online survey was developed and distributed to faculty or instructors with AAC expertise associated with 265 speech-language pathology programs in the United States. A total of 64 surveys were completed for a response rate of 24.2% (64/265). Quantitative and qualitative analyses were used to evaluate the survey data.

Results:

Patterns are reported related to a number of course design elements and features, including enrollment, course delivery, learning objectives, content, case-based instruction, assignments, in-class activities, and readings and resources.

Conclusions:

This study reports the design and features of AAC courses presently taught by faculty and instructor experts in the United States. The results have direct implications for faculty and instructors who teach AAC coursework and provide state-of-the-art information needed for continuous improvement of AAC preservice education. Resources and considerations are provided for scholarly teaching and evidence-based education.
Black Older Americans Have Lower Prevalence of Hearing Loss Than Their White Peers: Findings From Two Large Nationally Representative Surveys
Authors: Deng ZhiDi , Agbeyaka Senyo , Fuller-Thomson Esme
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to investigate Black–White differences associated with hearing loss among older adults living in the United States.

Method:

Secondary data analysis was conducted using the 2017 American Community Survey (ACS) with a replication analysis of the 2016 ACS. The ACS is an annual nationally representative survey of Americans living in community settings and institutions. The sample size of older Americans (age 65+ years) in 2017 was 467,789 non–Hispanic Whites (NHWs) and 45,105 non–Hispanic Blacks (NHBs). In the 2016 ACS, there were 459,692 NHW and 45,990 NHB respondents. Measures of hearing loss, age, race/ethnicity, education level, and household income were based on self-report. Data were weighted to adjust for nonresponse and differential selection probabilities.

Results:

The prevalence of hearing loss was markedly higher among older NHWs (15.4% in both surveys) in comparison with NHBs (9.0% in 2017 and 9.4% in 2016, both ethnic differences
p
< .001). In the 2017 ACS, the age- and sex-adjusted odds of hearing loss were 69% higher for NHWs compared with NHBs, which increased to 91% higher odds when household income and education level were also taken into account (
OR
= 1.91; 95% confidence interval [CI; 1.85, 1.97]). Findings from the 2016 ACS were very similar (e.g., 65+ fully adjusted
OR
= 1.81; 95% CI [1.76, 1.87]).

Conclusions:

NHWs have a much higher prevalence and almost double the odds of hearing loss compared with NHBs. Unfortunately, the ACS survey does not allow us to explore potential causal mechanisms behind this association.
Validation of an Acoustic-Based Framework of Speech Motor Control: Assessing Criterion and Construct Validity Using Kinematic and Perceptual Measures
Authors: Rowe Hannah P. , Stipancic Kaila L. , Lammert Adam C. , Green Jordan R.
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

This study investigated the criterion (analytical and clinical) and construct (divergent) validity of a novel, acoustic-based framework composed of five key components of motor control: Coordination, Consistency, Speed, Precision, and Rate.

Method:

Acoustic and kinematic analyses were performed on audio recordings from 22 subjects with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis during a sequential motion rate task. Perceptual analyses were completed by two licensed speech-language pathologists, who rated each subject's speech on the five framework components and their overall severity. Analytical and clinical validity were assessed by comparing performance on the acoustic features to their kinematic correlates and to clinician ratings of the five components, respectively. Divergent validity of the acoustic-based framework was then assessed by comparing performance on each pair of acoustic features to determine whether the features represent distinct articulatory constructs. Bivariate correlations and partial correlations with severity as a covariate were conducted for each comparison.

Results:

Results revealed moderate-to-strong analytical validity for every acoustic feature, both with and without controlling for severity, and moderate-to-strong clinical validity for all acoustic features except Coordination, without controlling for severity. When severity was included as a covariate, the strong associations for Speed and Precision became weak. Divergent validity was supported by weak-to-moderate pairwise associations between all acoustic features except Speed (second-formant [F2] slope of consonant transition) and Precision (between-consonant variability in F2 slope).

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated that the acoustic-based framework has potential as an objective, valid, and clinically useful tool for profiling articulatory deficits in individuals with speech motor disorders. The findings also suggest that compared to clinician ratings, instrumental measures are more sensitive to subtle differences in articulatory function. With further research, this framework could provide more accurate and reliable characterizations of articulatory impairment, which may eventually increase clinical confidence in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with different articulatory phenotypes.
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Automation in the Fields of Gynaecology and Obstetrics – an Assessment of the State of Play
Authors: Weichert Jan , Welp Amrei , Scharf Jann Lennard , Dracopoulos Christoph , Becker Wolf-Henning , Gembicki Michael
Published: November 2021

The long-awaited progress in digitalisation is generating huge amounts of medical data every day, and manual analysis and targeted, patient-oriented evaluation of this data is becoming increasingly difficult or even infeasible. This state of affairs and the associated, increasingly complex requirements for individualised precision medicine underline the need for modern software solutions and algorithms across the entire healthcare system. The utilisation of state-of-the-art equipment and techniques in almost all areas of medicine over the past few years has now indeed enabled automation processes to enter – at least in part – into routine clinical practice. Such systems utilise a wide variety of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, the majority of which have been developed to optimise medical image reconstruction, noise reduction, quality assurance, triage, segmentation, computer-aided detection and classification and, as an emerging field of research, radiogenomics.
Tasks handled by AI are completed significantly faster and more precisely, clearly demonstrated by now in the annual findings of the ImageNet Large-Scale Visual Recognition Challenge (ILSVCR), first conducted in 2015, with error rates well below those of humans. This review article will discuss the potential capabilities and currently available applications of AI in gynaecological-obstetric diagnostics. The article will focus, in particular, on automated techniques in prenatal sonographic diagnostics.
Effects of Prenatal Electronic Cigarette Exposure On Foetal Development: a Review of the Literature
Authors: Römer Pia , Putzer Amanda Goméz , Kemmerich Robin , Mathes Birgit
Published: November 2021

Since their market launch in 2007, e-cigarettes gained popularity and were considered a relatively safe alternative to traditional cigarettes. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age in particular are increasingly turning to e-cigarettes. Little is known about the effects of prenatal exposure on the affected foetus. This paper aims to provide an overview of the current research on the effects of prenatal e-cigarette exposure on the foetus. Since studies in humans are lacking to date, this review refers only to animal and in vitro analyses. The PubMed and Web of Science databases were used for an extensive literature search. The search yielded N = 17 significant research papers. Possible sequelae resulting from prenatal exposure to traditional cigarettes were also seen in prenatal exposure to e-cigarettes. Prenatal e-cigarette exposure was found to be associated with increased DNA methylation overall, resulting in lower gene expression. This could adversely impact
the development of affected children, especially in case of those genes relevant to their development. In mice, for example, this greatly reduced the cell vitality of neural and stem cells and increased cell death. Further, prenatal exposure to e-cigarettes resulted in numerous developmental disorders, such as malformations of facial morphology and lower birth weight. Moreover, in animal models the animals suffered from a deterioration of their short-term memory. Activity and cognitive flexibility increased, while anxiety behaviour decreased. It is clear that more research and especially studies of humans are needed on this issue. In addition, there is a need for more intense education of prenatal care professionals as well as women of childbearing age and during pregnancy.
Risk of Recurrence in Uterine Leiomyoma with Bizarre Nuclei: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Travaglino Antonio , Raffone Antonio , Santoro Angela , Raimondo Diego , Improda Francesco Paolo , Cariati Federica , De Marco Margot , Casadio Paolo , Seracchioli Renato , Zullo Fulvio , Insabato Luigi , Zannoni Gian Franco
Published: November 2021

Objective Leiomyoma with bizarre nuclei (LBN) is a variant of uterine leiomyoma, which has replaced the previous category of “atypical leiomyoma” and must be distinguished from smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP). However, previously published series of “atypical leiomyoma” might have included both LBN and STUMP, due to the lack of strict diagnostic criteria. Based on such hypothesis, we aimed to define the risk of recurrence in LBN.

Study Design A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed by searching 4 electronic databases for all studies assessing the outcome of patients with “atypical leiomyoma” or LBN. The pooled absolute risk of recurrence was calculated. The included studies were subdivided into two subgroups based on the criteria used: “LBN + STUMP” or “LBN-only”.

Results Twelve studies with 433 patients were included. The pooled risk of recurrence was 5.5% overall. The funnel plot showed two cluster of studies which superimposed to the two subgroups. In the LBN + STUMP cluster/subgroup, the pooled risk of recurrence was 7.7%. In the LBN-only cluster/subgroup, the pooled risk of recurrence was 1.9%. Statistical heterogeneity was null in all analyses.

Conclusion Our results show a risk of recurrence of 1.9% for LBN; higher recurrence rates in older studies are likely due to the inclusion of STUMPs.
Body Size, Fatness and Skeletal Age in Female Youth Soccer
Players
Authors: Martinho Diogo V. , Coelho-e-Silva Manuel J. , Gonçalves Santos João , Oliveira Tomas G. , Minderico Cláudia S. , Seabra Andre , Valente-dos-Santos Joao , Sherar Lauren B. , Malina Robert M.
Published: November 2021

Growth and maturation are central concerns in the organization of training and
competitions in youth sports. This study examined maturity-associated variation
in body size and adiposity among adolescent girls participating in competitive
age group youth soccer. The sample included 441 players 10.08-16.73 years of
age. Stature and body mass were measured and body composition was predicted. The
Fels method was used to estimate skeletal age. Skeletally maturity status (late,
average or early maturing) was based on the difference between chronological and
skeletal age for each player. Mean stature approximated the 50th
percentiles of the general population in all competitive age groups, while mean
weight fluctuated between 50th and 75th percentiles. Age-
and maturity-specific means for estimated fat mass ranged between 18.0%
and 28.2%. The number of players classified as skeletally mature
increased with competitive age groups (under-13: 0%; under-15:
8%; under-17: 49%). In general, early maturing girls tended to
be heavier than their age group peers and especially when compared to late
maturing players.
Definitive Radiotherapy versus Surgery for the Treatment of Verrucous Carcinoma of the Larynx: A National Cancer Database Study
Authors: Kompelli Anvesh R. , Froehlich Michael H. , Morgan Patrick F. , Li Hong , Sharma Anand K. , Nathan Cherie-Ann O. , Neskey David M.
Published: November 2021

Introduction Traditionally, larger lesions of laryngeal verrucous carcinoma are treated with surgical excision, with definitive radiotherapy generally reserved for smaller lesions. However, data utilizing modern databases is limited.

Objective The authors sought to assess, utilizing the National Cancer Database, whether overall survival for patients with laryngeal verrucous carcinoma was equivalent when treated with definitive radiotherapy versus definitive surgery.

Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted utilizing the National Cancer Database. All cases of laryngeal verrucous carcinoma within the National Cancer Database between 2006 and 2014 were reviewed. Patients with T1–T3 (American Joint Commission on Cancer 7th Edition) laryngeal verrucous carcinoma were included and stratified by treatment modality. Demographics, treatment, and survival data were analyzed.

Results A total of 392 patients were included. Two hundred and fifty patients underwent surgery and 142 received radiotherapy. The two groups differed in age, transition of care, clinical T stage, and clinical stages. There was no significant difference in survival between T1–T3 lesions treated with surgery or radiotherapy (p = 0.32). Age, comorbidities, insurance status, and clinical T stage impacted overall hazard on multivariate analysis (p < 0.01). For patients treated with radiotherapy, age, insurance status, and clinical T stage were predictive of increased hazard.

Conclusion Overall survival is equivalent for patients with clinical T1 and clinical T2 laryngeal verrucous carcinoma treated with primary radiotherapy versus primary surgery. Thus, radiotherapy should be considered as a non-inferior treatment modality for certain patients with laryngeal verrucous carcinoma.
Avaliação de métodos intramedulares com polimetilmetacrilato para fixação em lesões ósseas de extremidades
Authors: Moura Marcio , Sanches Diego Pereira , Pinto Álvaro Ferreira , Milano Sibele Sauzem , Villela Marcella Maria
Published: November 2021

Objetivo Avaliar o potencial melhor resultado funcional e controle álgico no tratamento de fraturas patológicas e fixações profiláticas tratadas com haste intramedular associada ao polimetilmetacrilato (PMMA) em comparação com o uso de haste intramedular em lesões tumorais em ossos longos.

Métodos De janeiro de 2012 a setembro de 2017, 38 pacientes com 42 lesões patológicas (fraturas ou iminência segundo os critérios de Mirels) foram tratados cirurgicamente. Dezesseis pacientes submetidos a fixação com haste intramedular bloqueada foram alocados ao grupo controle e 22 pacientes com lesões patológicas foram alocados para tratamento com haste intramedular associada ao PMMA. No pós-operatório, foi realizada a submissão dos pacientes ao escore da Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS, na sigla em inglês) e à avaliação radiográfica do tratamento realizado, assim como à avaliação de intercorrências e complicações relacionadas ao tratamento.

Resultados A avaliação através do questionário MSTS demonstrou melhor resultado funcional do grupo associado com PMMA quando comparado com o grupo controle, o qual obteve uma pontuação média de 16,375 em um máximo de 30 pontos (54,6%), enquanto o grupo em estudo com associação do PMMA obteve uma média de 22,36 pontos (74,5%). O procedimento mostrou-se seguro, taxas de complicações e gravidade semelhantes e sem diferença estatística quando comparado com o tratamento padrão.

Conclusão A estabilização de lesões tumorais com fixação associada ao PMMA demonstrou reabilitação precoce e melhora na qualidade de vida, permitindo rápida recuperação funcional. A utilização do PMMA apresenta vantagens como diminuição do sangramento e da necrose tumoral e maior estabilidade mecânica.
O impacto do envolvimento do residente nos resultados dos pacientes na revisão da artroplastia total do quadril
Authors: Alexander Bradley , Sowers Mackenzie , Jacob Roshan , McGwin Gerald , Maffulli Nicola , Naranje Sameer
Published: November 2021

Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar a influência do envolvimento dos residentes nas taxas de complicações agudas na revisão da artroplastia total do quadril (ATQ).

Métodos Utilizando o banco de dados do American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP, na sigla em inglês), foram identificadas 1.743 revisões de ATQs entre 2008 e 2012; 949 delas envolveram um médico residente. Foram analisadas informações demográficas, incluindo gênero e raça, comorbidades, incluindo doenças pulmonares, doenças cardíacas e diabetes, tempo de permanência e complicações agudas pós-operatórias no prazo de 30 dias.

Resultados O envolvimento dos residentes não foi associado a um aumento significativo no risco de complicações agudas. O tempo de operação total demonstrou associação estatisticamente significativa com o envolvimento de um residente (161,35 minutos com residente presente, 135,07 minutos sem residente; p < 0,001). Não houve evidência de que o envolvimento do residente tenha sido associado a um maior tempo de internação hospitalar (5,61 dias com residente presente, 5,22 dias sem residente; p = 0,46).

Conclusão O envolvimento de um residente ortopédico durante a revisão da ATQ não parece aumentar as taxas de complicações pós-operatórias de curto prazo, apesar de um aumento significativo nos tempos operacionais.
Heuristic Evaluation of a Top-Rated Diabetes Self-Management App
Authors: Harrington Linda , Parker Cheryl , Ulanday Kathleen , Harrington Craig
Published: November 2021

Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usability of a top-rated diabetes app. Such apps are intended to markedly support the achievement of optimal health and financial outcomes by providing patients with substantive and continual support for self-management of their disease between periodic clinician visits. Poor usability can deter use which is especially concerning in patients with diabetes due to prevalence of the disease and impact of self-management on long-term prognosis.

Methods A diabetes app was selected due to the prevalence and seriousness of the disease. A heuristic evaluation was then performed to collect and analyze data on the usability of the app based on Nielsen's heuristics. Pareto analysis was used to illustrate the contribution of each type of heuristic violation, augmented by a stacked bar chart illuminating associated severity.

Results There were 51 heuristic violations on the opening screen, violating 6 of Nielsen's 10 heuristics. Pareto analysis revealed 29 (57%) of the heuristic violations involved a match between system and real world and 8 (16%) aesthetic and minimalist design. Severity ratings ranged from 1.0 to 4.0 (mean: 3.01) with 80% comprising a major usability problem and 6% a usability catastrophe.

Conclusion Studies show that people with diabetes are more likely to receive greater benefit from a diabetes app if they are easy to use. The number and severity of heuristic violations in this study suggest that the commercialization of mobile health apps may play a factor in bypassing experts in clinical informatics during the design phase of development. Usability and associated benefits received from mobile health apps can be enhanced by debugging the user interface of identified heuristic violations during design. Waiting to correct ongoing usability issues while apps are in production can result in patients disengaging from use of digital health tools engendering poorer outcomes.
Dual-layer optimized grid-connected operation strategy of electro-thermal multi-microgrid system considering the uncertainty of renewable energy sources
Authors: Lyu ZhiLin , Zheng LiJun , Yang Xiao
Published: November 2021

Interconnecting multiple combined heat and power (CHP) microgrids with the distribution network to form a CHP multi-microgrid system can promote the complementarity of various energy forms effectively and improve energy utilization efficiency. Therefore, a dual-layer stochastic optimal scheduling strategy of a multi-microgrid system interconnected with multiple CHP microgrids and multi-node distribution networks is proposed in this paper. In this strategy, the whole system is divided into two layers: (1) The lower layer adopts a stochastic simulation method based on versatile distribution to randomly generate a large number of scenarios and then uses a backward scenario reduction method to reduce the generated scenarios to a target number. Furthermore, with the goal of minimizing the sum of the weighted costs of the microgrid in each scenario, an economically optimal mixed integer programming model for a CHP microgrid with multiple energy storage devices is established. The output power of the electro-thermal units is optimized in each microgrid, and then the power to buy or sell power for each microgrid is determined. (2) The upper layer takes the minimum loss of the distribution system connected to multiple CHP microgrids as the goal and considers the power of each microgrid optimized by the lower layer as constraints. The optimal power flow model of the multi-node power distribution system is formulated based on the second-order cone relaxation technology, and the global optimal solution of the power node is obtained. Finally, the daily dispatch in which the IEEE-30 node power system connected to multiple CHP microgrids is used as an example for analysis. The results show that considering the uncertain factors of wind and solar output can effectively improve the reliability and robustness of the system when multiple CHP microgrids are connected to distribution network. Meanwhile, the coordinated use of multiple flexible coupling devices can reduce economic costs and promote energy consumption.
Synthesis and characterization of type II silicon clathrate films with low Na concentration
Authors: Liu Yinan , Schenken William K. , Krishna Lakshmi , Majid Ahmad A. A. , Furtak Thomas E. , Walker Michael , Koh Carolyn A. , Taylor P. Craig , Collins Reuben T.
Published: November 2021

A two-step process for the synthesis of the silicon clathrate film on a diamond silicon wafer is explored in detail. Key factors impacting the film quality are uncovered. We find that the optical properties of the films are strongly influenced by inhomogeneities and defect phases that dominate the top surface and grain boundaries of the material. For the first time, we systematically develop two approaches for minimizing the effects of defective structures and allow intrinsic properties of the clathrate material to be probed. One is separating the film surface from the Si substrate to expose the buried high-quality interface, and the other one is wet or dry etching of the clathrate film to remove the disordered material which is more heavily concentrated at the top surface. With high-quality clathrate surfaces and films produced, more reliable optical measurements are taken and interpreted. Techniques in this work provide a pathway for Si clathrate thin film toward an optically efficient alternative crystalline form of Si that can transform Si-based applications in optoelectronics.
Pulsed laser cleaning of resin-based surface coating on the titanium alloy substrate
Authors: Wen Jianzhong , Li Yuqin , Fan Jinyu , Wei Xiaolong
Published: November 2021

In this work, the laser cleaning process of the surface coating for the Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy was investigated using a pulsed laser, including cleaning time, laser power, and scanning speed. Meanwhile, the corresponding mechanism of laser cleaning was analyzed using the surface morphology, element content change, coating fracture cross section, and phase change. Results demonstrated that the quality of the coating removed by laser cleaning increased first and then decreased with the increase in the three key process parameters of laser cleaning time, laser power, and scanning speed, respectively. The superior laser cleaning efficiency was achieved when the laser power was 15 W, the cleaning time was 8, and the scanning speed was 400 mm/s. It is concluded that the removal of the titanium alloy surface coating is the result of the coupling of the cleaning mechanisms such as ablation and thermal expansion.
The unusual phenomenon of electromagnetic induction
Authors: Deng Jyhjeng , Chen Chih-Tsung
Published: November 2021

This paper describes the unusual phenomenon of electromagnetic induction that occurs when a Nd–Fe–B magnet is passed through a hollow paramagnetic aluminum tube and conduction of eddy current happens. It was observed that the time taken by the Nd–Fe–B magnet to pass through a 1 m aluminum tube is longer than that through a 2 m tube. A tentative theory for this phenomenon is that due to the paramagnetism of the aluminum tube, the 2 m tube induces a more potent induction to pull the Nd–Fe–B magnet downward than that present in the 1 m tube. This scientific effect, which is coined herein as a length-boost effect, can create a situation that contradicts the conventional thinking that it should take a longer time to fall through a longer tube. One application of this is in controlling the velocity of a falling Nd–Fe–B magnet by changing the length of the aluminum pipe. The other is using aluminum as braking fins in free-fall chairs at amusement parks to reduce heat dissipation. However, diamagnetic tubes, such as those composed of copper and brass, do not possess this effect. A magnet falling through longer tubes of these metals takes a longer time than through shorter tubes.