bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proper orthogonal decomposition analysis of variable temperature field during gas tungsten arc welding
Authors: Blanc N. , Boutin T. , Bendaoud I. , Soulié F. , Bordreuil C.
Published: December 2021

Fluid flow motion controls energy transfer in the weld pool and drives the solidification process. Experimental investigation of the fluid flow during welding is made particularly difficult by unsteady movements in the molten pool. In this paper, proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) based on images during gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) on thin plates is used to investigate coherent structures revealed by the thermal field in the molten pool. The POD method is based on fluctuating gray levels related to surface temperature. Based on this decomposition, two dimensional spatial modes and temporal coefficients are calculated allowing the identification of regions where temperatures are correlated. To explore the potential of the POD method, weld beads were performed on a 316L stainless steel plate at three welding speeds (2.3, 3.3, and 4.3 mm s−1) and constant current (80 A). These three conditions lead to different sizes of fully penetrated weld pools and different temperature distributions. Spatial modes and temporal coefficients provide information on temperature fluctuations along the free surface. Based on POD first modes, the thermal field is reconstructed along the free surface to understand the heat transfer. Combining these results with side-view observations of the arc allows us to derive three dimensional flow patterns within the weld pool.
High-precision in situ measurements of size and optical properties of single microparticles in an RF plasma
Authors: Wohlfahrt Sören , Block Dietmar
Published: December 2021

An enhanced, high-precision, in situ method to determine the radii and refractive indices of single microparticles embedded in a plasma is presented. The particles are confined in the plasma sheath and illuminated with laser light that has a well-defined and adjustable state of polarization. Using an out-of-focus imaging setup, the angle- and polarization-resolved scattering intensities are measured and compared to Lorentz–Mie theory. A two-stage data evaluation process is used to obtain the particle size and the complex refractive index of different particle materials as a function of interaction time with the plasma.
Electron-spin-resonance meanderlines for effective spin control in Si quantum dots for large-scale qubit applications
Authors: Chang Yao-Chun , Huang Ian , Chen Chiung-Yu , Lin Min-Jui , Chen Shih-Yuan , Li Jiun-Yun
Published: December 2021

Coherent control of electron spins in multiple quantum dots (QDs) is critical for realizing large-scale spin qubits. The manipulation of electron spins in Si QDs can be achieved by electron spin resonance (ESR). While the effective spin control over a single qubit has been demonstrated, the architecture of ESR lines for large-scale spin qubits has yet to be demonstrated. In this paper, we propose an ESR meanderline for large-scale Si QDs. Simulation results show that magnetic fields can be effectively enhanced with low electric fields using a meanderline, enabling high-fidelity and low-noise control over electron spins in a 50-qubit system. Reflection coefficients of ESR meanderlines by on-wafer microwave measurements show low loss (−7 dB) for a 3-qubit device at a frequency range of 10 to 50 GHz.
Vortical structures and turbulence characteristics in an isothermal channel flow at supercritical pressure
Authors: Pei Binbin , Li FangBo , Zhao Kunpeng , Zhao Liang , Bai Bofeng
Published: December 2021

Due to effect of the variations in the thermo-physical properties, the role of vortical structures in wall-bounded turbulence characteristics at supercritical pressure becomes particularly complex. In this work, we investigate the dynamics of vortical structures in an isothermal turbulent channel flow at supercritical pressure by direct numerical simulation. We find that the streaks near the cold (respectively, hot) wall are strengthened (respectively, weakened), which are associated with the enhanced (respectively, decreased) frequency of bursting events induced by the higher (respectively, lower) mean values of density and viscosity near the cold (respectively, hot) wall. Additionally, the typical hairpin vortex is modulated due to the effect of the baroclinic field and the bursting events near the wall, and accompanied by the generation of the sheet-like, tube-like vortical structures and the wavepackets. Consequently, both the volume fractions of vortex sheets and vortex tubes increase in comparison with the incompressible flow, especially near the cold wall. Further, we confirm that, for the variable property cases, the mechanism underlying the increased contribution of vortex sheets to the enstrophy production in the viscous sublayer is the stronger vortex stretching than the incompressible counterpart. The turbulence anisotropy is found to be increased due to the increase in the mean shear and the overlap between the large energy-containing eddies and the dissipative small scales. For the downward flow with mixed convection, buoyancy mainly weakens the anisotropy in the viscous sublayer near the cold wall due to the larger mean density.
Infrared spectroscopic signature of a hydroperoxyalkyl radical (•QOOH)
Authors: Hansen Anne S. , Bhagde Trisha , Qian Yujie , Cavazos Alyssa , Huchmala Rachel M. , Boyer Mark A. , Gavin-Hanner Coire F. , Klippenstein Stephen J. , McCoy Anne B. , Lester Marsha I.
Published: December 2021

Infrared (IR) action spectroscopy is utilized to characterize a prototypical carbon-centered hydroperoxyalkyl radical (•QOOH) transiently formed in the oxidation of volatile organic compounds. The •QOOH radical formed in isobutane oxidation, 2-hydroperoxy-2-methylprop-1-yl, •CH2(CH3)2COOH, is generated in the laboratory by H-atom abstraction from tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP). IR spectral features of jet-cooled and stabilized •QOOH radicals are observed from 2950 to 7050 cm−1 at energies that lie below and above the transition state barrier leading to OH radical and cyclic ether products. The observed •QOOH features include overtone OH and CH stretch transitions, combination bands involving OH or CH stretch and a lower frequency mode, and fundamental OH and CH stretch transitions. Most features arise from a single vibrational transition with band contours well simulated at a rotational temperature of 10 K. In each case, the OH products resulting from unimolecular decay of vibrationally activated •QOOH are detected by UV laser-induced fluorescence. Assignments of observed •QOOH IR transitions are guided by anharmonic frequencies computed using second order vibrational perturbation theory, a 2 + 1 model that focuses on the coupling of the OH stretch with two low-frequency torsions, as well as recently predicted statistical •QOOH unimolecular decay rates that include heavy-atom tunneling. Most of the observed vibrational transitions of •QOOH are readily distinguished from those of the TBHP precursor. The distinctive IR transitions of •QOOH, including the strong fundamental OH stretch, provide a general means for detection of •QOOH under controlled laboratory and real-world conditions.
A comparison of visual observation and DNA metabarcoding to assess the diet of juvenile sea turtle
Authors: Martin Jessica , Gambaiani Delphine , Sabatte Marie-Aurélia , Pelorce Jacques , Valentini Alice , Dejean Tony , Darmon Gaëlle , Miaud Claude
Published: December 2021

The contents of the digestive tracts of 21 loggerhead turtles (20 juveniles and 1 adult) collected along the French Mediterranean coast were extracted during necropsies. Hard and soft items were collected and identified by visual observation. A 15-mL sample of the liquid from the rinsed contents of each digestive tract was collected and dietary DNA (dDNA) was extracted and amplified with a 18S universal eukaryotic primers. The obtained reads were compared with taxonomic DNA reference database. Ten taxonomic groups (annelids, cnidarians, crustaceans, echinoderms, fish, insects, molluscs, plants, poriferans and tunicates) were identified with visual observation and eight (ctenophores, cnidarians, crustaceans, fish, molluscs, poriferans, tunicates and plants) with dDNA metabarcoding. Annelids, echinoderms and insects were detected only with visual observation, whereas ctenophores were detected only with dDNA. The two methods were complementary to cover the range of prey, with more soft-bodied organisms detected by dDNA and more hard-shelled organisms detected by visual observation. The increased use of the dDNA metabarcoding method will help compare sea turtle diets of the different stages such as juveniles and adults, or specimens living in different areas, despite the limitations and complexity associated with its use.
Specific hypomethylation programs underpin B cell activation in early multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ma Qin , Caillier Stacy J. , Muzic Shaun ,   University of California San Francisco MS-EPIC Team, Wilson Michael R. , Henry Roland G. , Cree Bruce A. C. , Hauser Stephen L. , Didonna Alessandro , Oksenberg Jorge R. , Alexander Jessa , Bove Riley , Baranzini Sergio , Cree Bruce A. C. , Caverzasi Eduardo , Cuneo Richard , Caillier Stacy J. , Cooper Tiffany , Green Ari J. , Guo Chu-Yueh , Gelfand Jeffrey M. , Gomez Refujia , Gupta Sasha , Hollenbach Jill , Harms Meagan , Henry Roland G. , Hauser Stephen L. , Mendoza Myra , Oksenberg Jorge R. , Papinutto Nico , Pleasure Sam , Santaniello Adam , Sabatino Joseph J. , Stern William A. , Wilson Michael R. , Zamvil Scott
Published: December 2021

Significance

Cellular and molecular mediators driving multiple sclerosis (MS) pathology have been discovered to a great extent. However, the early molecular events leading to aberrant immune responses remain largely unknown. In this study, we combined bisulfite sequencing with transcriptome profiling to characterize the epigenetic landscape of four peripheral immune cell populations isolated from newly diagnosed, untreated MS patients and healthy individuals. We demonstrate widespread hypomethylation in CD19
+
B cells at clinical disease onset. Notably, this epigenetic signature is functionally linked with the overactivation of B cells. Altogether, our results pinpoint the role of aberrant DNA methylation in connecting defects in the periphery with central nervous system autoimmunity and corroborate the key role of B cells in the initial stages of MS.
Active Syllable Average Limit 1,000 (音涯一千)
Authors: Kong Jiangping
Published: December 2021

This paper mainly studies phonemic cognitive ability through the databases of living spoken languages in the Sino-Tibetan languages including 20 Chinese dialects, 6 Tibetan dialects, 5 Miao dialects, Mian, Zhuang, Thai, Li, Dai, Yi, Burmese, Zaiwa, and, Achang. The methods of statistics and information entropy and the concepts of the actual syllabic space, the syllabic theoretical space and redundancy rate are used and proposed in this paper. The results show that: (1) statistical methods can be used in the study of phonemic cognition; (2) the actual syllabic space in spoken Sino-Tibetan languages reflects the man’s phonemic cognitive ability; (3) the theoretical syllabic space composed of initial, final, and tone in the Sino-Tibetan languages reflects the dynamic process of a phoneme system in language contact and evolution; (4) a redundancy rate of 60% is the bottom limit in oral communication in the Sino-Tibetan languages. Therefore, the conclusion of this study is that Active Syllable Average Limit 1,000 not only reflects man’s phonemic cognitive ability, but also reflects the interdependence of phonemic cognition and semantic cognition, and reveals an important link in the process of a language chain from semantic to phonemic transformation, which has important theoretical significance in the study of language cognition.
Syllable isochrony and the prosodic features of stop syllables in Cantonese
Authors: Zhang Ling
Published: December 2021

Cantonese is a syllable-timed language: that is, the syllable is the isochronous unit of speech. However, in Cantonese, there is a type of closed syllable with the stop codas [-p], [-t], or [-k] (i.e. syllables with the so called “entering-tones”) which sound much shorter than other syllables. On the surface, the shorter duration of stop syllables and the general prosodic feature of syllable-isochrony seem to conflict. This study conducted acoustic investigations of stop syllables in Cantonese in different contexts (i.e. in isolated form, in disyllabic words, and in disyllabic words located at the beginning, middle, and final positions of sentences). The results showed that stop syllables alone are shorter than non-stop syllables in various contexts. However, in disyllabic words or in sentences, there is a supplementary lengthening effect immediately after the stop syllables: there is more acoustic blank, and in some circumstances the initial of the following syllable is lengthened. Therefore, we propose that the phonetic realization of syllable isochrony is beyond the syllable itself in Cantonese. The results and discussions of this study may also shed light on the problem of the disappearance of “entering tones” from various Chinese dialects.
Prosodic realization of tonal target and F0 peak alignment in Mandarin neutral tone
Authors: Li Aijun , Li Zhiqiang
Published: December 2021

Neutral tone in Mandarin is generally believed to lack tonal identity and exhibit more variability in its phonetic
realization. We examined the tonal target of neutral tone in a prosodic word consisting of a full syllable (S) and one, two, or
three neutral-tone syllables. In the experiment, the test words, presented in isolation and embedded in a carrier sentence, were
read in two intonation patterns: declarative and interrogative. The results showed: (1) the tonal target of neutral tone is L(ow)
at the end of the intonation phrase in declarative intonation and M(id) in question intonation; (2) its phonetic realization is
influenced by intonation patterns, the tone of S and the number of neutral-tone syllables in the prosodic word; (3) the influence
of the tone of S is more robust in shorter sequences than in longer ones with three neutral-tone syllables; (4) placement of the
F0 peak in T2 (LH) and the neutral tone immediately following T3 (L) is susceptible to the number of neutral-tone syllables. It
seems clear from our study that while the tonal target of neutral tone is related to prosodic structure, its actual F0 scaling is
sensitive to prosodic manipulations such as intonation patterns and prosodic word length. In addition,
tonelessness of neutral tone allows for more freedom in the alignment of the F0 peak, whose temporal
coordination with its segmental host is, nevertheless, subject to both phonological and phonetic constraints.
A preliminary study on nasalization and phonation
Authors: Li Xuan , Wang Feng
Published: December 2021

Although it is widely acknowledged that different speech processes may interact with each other, the way that nasalization affects phonation remains poorly understood. This paper explores the relationship between nasalization and phonation, by analyzing the phonetic cues of the tense/lax distinction both in nasalization and non-nasalization in the Bai language. The data for discussion is from two Bai dialects, Chengbei and Jinhua, which have a tense/lax distinction in both nasalized and non-nasalized syllables. Three phonation parameters – fundamental frequency (F0), open quotient (OQ), and speed quotient (SQ) – are extracted from EGG signals for analysis. It is found that the influence of nasalization on phonation varies with the tone contours. As for the level tones, the role of phonation manner in tone distinction is not evident in nasalization in that tense tones can be distinguished from lax tones only by pitch. However, in non-nasalization, phonation manner plays an indispensable role in tone distinction, in that the contrast between tense and lax tones are reflected not only on F0 but also on OQ and SQ. Moreover, non-nasalized tense tones are more likely to be accompanied by non-modal phonation that is characterized by a significantly higher SQ. In terms of articulatory explanation, high SQ in non-modal phonation is the result of the vibration of tightened vocal folds, and the tension of vocal folds is caused by raising the soft palate in non-nasalization. As for the falling tones, the role of phonation manner in tone distinction is more salient in nasalization than in non-nasalization in Chengbei Bai, but it is not attested in Jinhua Bai. This study shows that the interaction between nasalization and phonation in Bai can be revealed in the analysis of phonation parameters, i.e. F0, OQ, and SQ.
Cuantificación y pobreza de recursos
Authors: Laurencio Tacoronte Ariel
Published: December 2021

Abstracta

A partir de la idea de trabajo deAdamczewski (1978)de que algunos operadores adverbiales temporales o de frecuencia, al cuantificar la validez de la relación predicativa, bloquean esta relación tematizándola, intentamos desarrollar un instrumento de análisis lingüístico con el que abordar cuestiones aparentemente dispares como la interpretación iterativa o la indeterminada en ámbito verbal, o el uso del plural o del diminutivo en ámbito nominal. Por otro lado, al poder apreciar en el contraste entre lenguas que algunas implementan la operación de cuantificación a través de operadores con los que no cuentan otras, y que cada lengua al fin y al cabo no hace que uso de los recursos de los que dispone hasta ese momento de su evolución, desarrollamos el concepto de pobreza de recursos. A través de él intentamos hacer ver que cada lengua realiza en general operaciones similares a otras lenguas aun si las huellas visibles de estas operaciones en la superficie del enunciado son o pueden parecer del todo disímiles.
Multi-word term variation
Authors: Cabezas-García Melania , Chambó Santiago
Published: December 2021

Complex nominals (CNs) are frequently found in specialized discourse in all languages, since they are a productive
method of creating terms by combining existing lexical units. In Spanish, a conceptual combination may often be rendered with a
prepositional CN (PCN) or an equivalent adjectival CN (ACN), e.g., demanda de electricidad vs. demanda eléctrica [electricity
demand]. Adjectives in ACNs – usually derived from nouns – are known as ‘relational adjectives’ because they encode semantic
relations with other concepts. With recent exceptions, research has focused on the underlying semantic relations in CNs. In
natural language processing, several works have dealt with the automatic detection of relation adjectives in Romance and Germanic
languages. However, there is no discourse studies of these CNs, to our knowledge, for the goal of establishing writer
recommendations. This study analyzed the co-text of equivalent PCNs and ACNs to identify factors governing the use of a certain
form. EcoLexicon ES, a corpus of Spanish environmental specialized texts, was used to extract 6 relational adjectives and,
subsequently, a set of 12 pairs of equivalent CNs. Their behavior in co-text was analyzed by querying EcoLexicon ES and a general
language corpus with 20 expressions in CQP-syntax. Our results showed that immediate linguistic co-text determined the preference
for a particular structure. Based on these findings, we provide writing guidelines to assist in the production of CNs.
Neutrophil DREAM come true: The not-so-impossible quest for mechanisms of neutrophil function and heterogeneity
Authors: Gomez John C. , Doerschuk Claire M.
Published: December 2021

Neutrophil functions and responses are heterogeneous, and the nature and categorization of this heterogeneity is achieving considerable interest. Work by Li et al. in this issue of JEM (2021. J. Exp. Med.https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.20211083) identifies how a transcriptional repressor, DREAM, regulates adhesion of neutrophils to endothelial cells and their transmigration into tissue. This study offers a mechanism for heterogeneity in this critical response of neutrophils to inflammatory stimuli.
Catecholamines are key modulators of ventricular repolarization patterns in the ball python (Python regius)
Authors: Boukens Bastiaan J.D. , Joyce William , Kristensen Ditte Lind , Hooijkaas Ingeborg , Jongejan Aldo , Wang Tobias , Jensen Bjarke
Published: December 2021

Ectothermic vertebrates experience daily changes in body temperature, and anecdotal observations suggest these changes affect ventricular repolarization such that the T-wave in the ECG changes polarity. Mammals, in contrast, can maintain stable body temperatures, and their ventricular repolarization is strongly modulated by changes in heart rate and by sympathetic nervous system activity. The aim of this study was to assess the role of body temperature, heart rate, and circulating catecholamines on local repolarization gradients in the ectothermic ball python (Python regius). We recorded body-surface electrocardiograms and performed open-chest high-resolution epicardial mapping while increasing body temperature in five pythons, in all of which there was a change in T-wave polarity. However, the vector of repolarization differed between individuals, and only a subset of leads revealed T-wave polarity change. RNA sequencing revealed regional differences related to adrenergic signaling. In one denervated and Ringer’s solution–perfused heart, heating and elevated heart rates did not induce change in T-wave polarity, whereas noradrenaline did. Accordingly, electrocardiograms in eight awake pythons receiving intra-arterial infusion of the β-adrenergic receptor agonists adrenaline and isoproterenol revealed T-wave inversion in most individuals. Conversely, blocking the β-adrenergic receptors using propranolol prevented T-wave change during heating. Our findings indicate that changes in ventricular repolarization in ball pythons are caused by increased tone of the sympathetic nervous system, not by changes in temperature. Therefore, ventricular repolarization in both pythons and mammals is modulated by evolutionary conserved mechanisms involving catecholaminergic stimulation.
Anomalous behavior induced by water insertion in molybdenum disulfide nanoflowers
Authors: Roshini R Anu , Malavika C , Kumar B Manoj , Kannan E S
Published: December 2021

The coexistence of negative photoconductivity and metallic-like behavior in conventional semiconductors is very uncommon. In this work, we report the existence of such unconventional physical properties in molybdenum disulfide nanoflowers (MoS2-NF). This is achieved by making the surface of MoS2 hygroscopic by alcohol treatment and creating a transport channel that favors protonic over electronic conduction. On cooling the MoS2-NF in a heat sink, the excess water that condenses on the surface forms a proton (H3O+) wire which exhibits pinched hysteresis characteristics. The conductivity of MoS2 increased by two orders of magnitude in the proton-dominated conduction regime with an exceptionally high positive temperature coefficient of 1.3 × 104 Ω K−1. Interestingly, MoS2-NF also exhibits strong negative photoconductivity at room temperature when illuminated with UV and infra-red radiation. This interesting behavior observed in MoS2 NF can be useful for energy harvesting applications and the realization of fast thermal memories and optical switches.
Self-powered flexible piezoelectric sensor based on PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 nanofibers for impact force monitoring and rubber mat aging assessment
Authors: Ding Yuxing , Geng Ranran , Zhu Ruijian , Zhang Weimin , Wang Weijie , Wang Zengmei
Published: December 2021

In this work, a flexible piezoelectric sensor was fabricated based on PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3(PZT) nanofibers (NFs) composite, and its potential applications in impact force monitoring and rubber mat aging assessment were reported. The lead zirconate titanate (PZT) piezoelectric NFs with diameters of 150–260 nm were prepared via electrospinning technique, showing a high piezoelectric coefficient (d
33 ∼ 92.5 pm V−1) for piezoelectric fibers. The PZT NFs and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were dispersed in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to fabricate a highly stretchable and flexible impact sensor (PZT/CNTs/PDMS piezoelectric nanocomposite sensor), which showed excellent low frequency sensitivity (as low as 0.01 Hz), high bending deformation sensitivity (as low as 0.192 cm−1 curvature deformation with 6.64 V cm−1 sensitivity) and cycle stability under external impact force. Besides, it is the first attempt to assess railway tracks rubber mat aging based on piezoelectric nanocomposite impact sensor, and the static stiffness relative error reaches a low value of 6.91%.
On topological models of zero entropy loosely Bernoulli systems
Authors: García-Ramos Felipe , Kwietniak Dominik
Published: December 2021

We provide a purely topological characterisation of uniquely ergodic topological dynamical systems (TDSs) whose unique invariant measure is zero entropy loosely Bernoulli (following Ratner, we call such measures loosely Kronecker). At the heart of our proofs lies Feldman-Katok continuity (FK-continuity for short), that is, continuity with respect to the change of metric to the Feldman-Katok pseudometric. Feldman-Katok pseudometric is a topological analog of f-bar (edit) metric for symbolic systems. We also study an opposite of FK-continuity, coined FK-sensitivity. We obtain a version of Auslander-Yorke dichotomies: minimal TDSs are either FK-continuous or FK-sensitive, and transitive TDSs are either almost FK-continuous or FK-sensitive.
Combined TMS-fMRI reveals behavior-dependent network effects of right temporoparietal junction neurostimulation in an attentional belief updating task
Authors: Mengotti Paola , Käsbauer Anne-Sophie , Fink Gereon R , Vossel Simone
Published: December 2021

Updating beliefs after unexpected events is fundamental for an optimal adaptation to the environment. Previous findings suggested a causal involvement of the right temporoparietal junction (rTPJ) in belief updating in an attention task. We combined offline continuous theta-burst stimulation (cTBS) over rTPJ with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate local and remote stimulation effects within the attention and salience networks. In a sham-controlled, within-subject crossover design, 25 participants performed an attentional cueing task during fMRI with true or false information about cue predictability. By estimating learning rates from response times, we characterized participants’ belief updating. Model-derived cue predictability entered the fMRI analysis as a parametric regressor to identify the neural correlates of updating. rTPJ-cTBS effects showed high interindividual variability. The expected learning rate reduction with false cue predictability information by cTBS was only observed in participants showing higher updating in false than in true blocks after sham. cTBS modulated the neural signatures of belief updating, both in rTPJ and in nodes of the attention and salience networks. The interindividual variability of the behavioral cTBS effect was related to differential activity and rTPJ connectivity of the right anterior insula. These results demonstrate a crucial interaction between ventral attention and salience networks for belief updating.
Fair Allocation of Scarce Therapies for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Persad Govind , Peek Monica E , Shah Seema K
Published: December 2021

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued emergency use authorizations (EUAs) for monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for nonhospitalized patients with mild or moderate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) disease and for individuals exposed to COVID-19 as postexposure prophylaxis. EUAs for oral antiviral drugs have also been issued. Due to increased demand because of the Delta variant, the federal government resumed control over the supply and asked states to ration doses. As future variants (eg, the Omicron variant) emerge, further rationing may be required. We identify relevant ethical principles (ie, benefiting people and preventing harm, equal concern, and mitigating health inequities) and priority groups for access to therapies based on an integrated approach to population health and medical factors (eg, urgently scarce healthcare workers, persons in disadvantaged communities hard hit by COVID-19). Using priority categories to allocate scarce therapies effectively operationalizes important ethical values. This strategy is preferable to the current approach of categorical exclusion or inclusion rules based on vaccination, immunocompromise status, or older age, or the ad hoc consideration of clinical risk factors.
Genetic evaluation of paediatric nephrocalcinosis: phenotype-driven genetic panels reveal a rare diagnosis
Authors: Patterson Jenny , Jacob Zoe , Reynolds Ben C
Published: December 2021

Monogenic causes of paediatric nephrocalcinosis are associated with extensive phenotypic variability. We report a 14-year-old male who presented at 8 years of age with incidentally identified nephrocalcinosis alongside growth impairment and dental anomalies. Extensive genetic investigation confirmed a molecular diagnosis of Bartter syndrome type II. This is exceptional in both late presentation and the presence of amelogenesis imperfecta, a very rare association of inherited tubulopathies. Details of the nephrocalcinosis gene panel analysed and associated phenotypes are presented to highlight the utility of a phenotype-driven genetic panel in resolving an atypical presentation of nephrocalcinosis, allowing precise diagnosis, tailored therapy and prognostication.
Haploinsufficiency of the mouseTshz3gene leads to kidney defects
Authors: Sanchez-Martin Irene , Magalhães Pedro , Ranjzad Parisa , Fatmi Ahmed , Richard Fabrice , Manh Thien Phong Vu , Saurin Andrew J , Feuillet Guylène , Denis Colette , Woolf Adrian S , Schanstra Joost P , Zürbig Petra , Caubit Xavier , Fasano Laurent
Published: December 2021

Renal tract defects and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) deficits represent the phenotypic core of the 19q12 deletion syndrome caused by the loss of one copy of the TSHZ3 gene. Although a proportion of Tshz3 heterozygous (Tshz3+/lacZ) mice display ureteral defects, no kidney defects have been reported in these mice. The purpose of this study was to characterize the expression of Tshz3 in adult kidney as well as the renal consequences of embryonic haploinsufficiency of Tshz3 by analyzing the morphology and function of Tshz3 heterozygous adult kidney. Here, we described Tshz3 expression in the smooth muscle and stromal cells lining the renal pelvis, the papilla and glomerular endothelial cells (GEnCs) of the adult kidney as well as in the proximal nephron tubules in neonatal mice. Histological analysis showed that Tshz3+/lacZ adult kidney had an average of 29% fewer glomeruli than wild-type kidney. Transmission electron microscopy of Tshz3+/lacZ glomeruli revealed a reduced thickness of the glomerular basement membrane and a larger foot process width. Compared to wild type, Tshz3+/lacZ mice showed lower blood urea, phosphates, magnesium and potassium at 2 months of age. At the molecular level, transcriptome analysis identified differentially expressed genes related to inflammatory processes in Tshz3+/lacZ compare to wild-type (control) adult kidneys. Lastly, analysis of the urinary peptidome revealed 33 peptides associated with Tshz3+/lacZ adult mice. These results provide the first evidence that in the mouse Tshz3 haploinsufficiency leads to cellular, molecular and functional abnormalities in the adult mouse kidney.
Human Research Study of Particulate Propagation Distance From Human Respiratory Function
Authors: Reyes Jonathan , Stiehl Bernhard , Delgado Juanpablo , Kinzel Michael , Ahmed Kareem
Published: December 2021

Background

Airborne viral pathogens like severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can be encapsulated and transmitted through liquid droplets/aerosols formed during human respiratory events.

Methods

The number and extent of droplets/aerosols at distances between 1 and 6 ft (0.305–1.829 m) for a participant wearing no face covering, a cotton single-layer cloth face covering, and a 3-layer disposable face covering were measured for defined speech and cough events. The data include planar particle imagery to illuminate emissions by a light-sheet and local aerosol/droplet probes taken with phase Doppler interferometry and an aerodynamic particle sizer.

Results

Without face coverings, droplets/aerosols were detected up to a maximum of 1.25 m (4.1ft ± 0.22–0.28 ft) during speech and up to 1.37 m (4.5ft ± 0.19–0.33 ft) while coughing. The cloth face covering reduced maximum axial distances to 0.61 m (2.0 ft ± 0.11–0.15 ft) for speech and to 0.67 m (2.2 ft ± 0.02–0.20 ft) while coughing. Using the disposable face covering, safe distance was reduced further to 0.15 m (0.50 ft ± 0.01–0.03 ft) measured for both emission scenarios. In addition, the use of face coverings was highly effective in reducing the count of expelled aerosols.

Conclusions

The experimental study indicates that 0.914 m (3 ft) physical distancing with face coverings is equally as effective at reducing aerosol/droplet exposure as 1.829 m (6 ft) with no face covering.
Spectrophotometric Determination of Metformin in Different Pharmaceutical Combinations With Glipizide or Sitagliptin in Presence of Toxic Impurities of Metformin
Authors: Abdallah Fatma F , Magdy Fatma , Abdelaleem Eglal A , Emam Aml A
Published: December 2021

Background

The presented quadruple divisor spectrophotometric method was able to resolve and analyze a complex quintuple drug matrix with severe overlapped spectra without previous separation or extraction steps or need of complicated apparatus like chromatographic methods and had the advantage of being green as the solvent used was water.

Method

A simple, sensitive, and precise quadruple devisor spectrophotometric method was developed for simultaneous determination of metformin, glipizide, and sitagliptin in the presence of metformin potential impurities melamine and cyanoguanidine. The proposed method was applied for analysis of metformin, glipizide, and sitagliptin in pure form and pharmaceutical formulation (tablets). The developed method was validated and met the requirements for ICH guidelines with respect to linearity, accuracy, precision, specificity, and robustness.

Results

A linear response was observed in the range of 2–27, 2–20, 1–20, 0.5–10, and 1–10 μg/mL for metformin, glipizide, sitagliptin, melamine, and cyanoguanidine, respectively, with a correlation coefficient of 0.9996, 0.9998, 0.9997, 0.9997, and 0.9996 for metformin, glipizide, sitagliptin, melamine, and cyanoguanidine, respectively.

Conclusions

The validated method was successfully applied for determination of the studied drugs in Janumet® and Engilor® tablets; moreover, the results were statistically compared to those obtained by the reported RP-HPLC method and no significant difference was found between them, indicating the ability of the proposed method to be used for routine quality-control analysis of these drugs.

Highlights

Novel application of quadruple divisor spectrophotometric technique is introduced for resolving mixtures containing five components with severely overlapping spectra. A simple and sensitive spectrophotometric method was developed for simultaneous determination of metformin, glipizide, and sitagliptin in the presence of metformin potential impurities melamine and cyanoguanidine. The validity of the proposed method was revealed as per ICH guidelines.
Transcriptional regulation of triacylglycerol accumulation in plants under environmental stress conditions
Authors: Nam Jeong-Won , Lee Hong Gil , Do Hyungju , Kim Hyun Uk , Seo Pil Joon
Published: December 2021

Triacylglycerol (TAG), a major energy reserve in lipid form, accumulates mainly in seeds. Although TAG concentrations are usually low in vegetative tissues because of the repression of seed maturation programs, these programs are derepressed upon the exposure of vegetative tissues to environmental stresses. Metabolic reprogramming of TAG accumulation is driven primarily by transcriptional regulation. A substantial proportion of transcription factors regulating seed TAG biosynthesis also participates in stress-induced TAG accumulation in vegetative tissues. TAG accumulation leads to the formation of lipid droplets and plastoglobules, which play important roles in plant tolerance to environmental stresses. Toxic lipid intermediates generated from environmental-stress-induced lipid membrane degradation are captured by TAG-containing lipid droplets and plastoglobules. This review summarizes recent advances in the transcriptional control of metabolic reprogramming underlying stress-induced TAG accumulation, and provides biological insight into the plant adaptive strategy, linking TAG biosynthesis with plant survival.
Star cluster formation from giant molecular clouds in the Small Magellanic Cloud about 2 Gyr ago: their origin, structures, and kinematics
Authors: Williams Mia L , Bekki Kenji , McKenzie Madeleine
Published: December 2021

Recent observations have found that the age distribution of star clusters (SCs) in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) shows a sharp peak around 2 Gyr ago. However, it is theoretically unclear what physical processes are responsible for such sudden formation of SCs in the SMC. Here, we investigate whether massive SCs with initial masses more than $10^5\, \text{M}_\odot$ can be formed during tidal interaction of the SMC with the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) about 2 Gyr ago, based on our new simulations, which include molecular hydrogen formation on dust grains and SC formation within giant molecular clouds (GMCs). We find that the formation of GMCs with masses more than $10^5\, \text{M}_\odot$ can be dramatically enhanced due to the tidal force of the LMC–SMC interaction. We also find that gravitationally bound massive SCs can be formed within these GMCs, though their mean stellar densities ($10^4\, \text{M}_\odot \,\text{pc}^{-3}$) are systematically lower than those of the genuine globular clusters (GCs). All simulated SCs have diffuse extended stellar envelopes that were formed from multiple merging of sub clusters within their natal GMCs. Furthermore, we find that some of the simulated SCs can have considerable global internal rotation and sub-structures surrounding them. Based on these simulation results, we discuss the origin of the observed diverse properties of SCs in the SMC and the physical roles of galaxy interaction in the formation of massive SCs from GMCs.
The nature of the Cygnus extreme B supergiant 2MASS J20395358+4222505
Authors: Herrero A , Berlanas S R , Gil de Paz A , Comerón F , Puls J , Ramírez Alegría S , Garcia M , Lennon D J , Najarro F , Simón-Díaz S , Urbaneja M A , Gallego J , Carrasco E , Iglesias J , Cedazo R , García Vargas M L , Castillo-Morales Á , Pascual S , Cardiel N , Pérez-Calpena A , Gómez-Alvarez P , Martínez-Delgado I
Published: December 2021

2MASS J20395358+4222505  is an obscured early B supergiant near the massive OB star association Cygnus OB2. Despite its bright infrared magnitude (Ks = 5.82) it has remained largely ignored because of its dim optical magnitude (B = 16.63, V = 13.68). In a previous paper, we classified it as a highly reddened, potentially extremely luminous, early B-type supergiant. We obtained its spectrum in the U, B and R spectral bands during commissioning observations with the instrument MEGARA at the Gran Telescopio CANARIAS. It displays a particularly strong Hα emission for its spectral type, B1 Ia. The star seems to be in an intermediate phase between supergiant and hypergiant, a group that it will probably join in the near (astronomical) future. We observe a radial velocity difference between individual observations and determine the stellar parameters, obtaining Teff = 24 000 K and log gc = 2.88 ± 0.15. The rotational velocity found is large for a B supergiant, $v$ sin i = 110 ± 25 $\rm km\, s^{-1}$. The abundance pattern is consistent with solar, with a mild C  underabundance (based on a single line). Assuming that J20395358+4222505  is at the distance of Cyg OB2, we derive the radius from infrared photometry, finding R = 41.2 ± 4.0 R⊙, log(L/L⊙) = 5.71 ± 0.04 and a spectroscopic mass of 46.5 ± 15.0 M⊙. The clumped mass-loss rate (clumping factor 10) is very high for the spectral type, $\dot{M}$ = 2.4 × 10−6 M⊙ a−1. The high rotational velocity and mass-loss rate place the star at the hot side of the bi-stability jump. Together with the nearly solar CNO abundance pattern, they may also point to evolution in a binary system, J20395358+4222505  being the initial secondary.
Stepsize errors in the N-body problem: discerning Mercury’s true possible long-term orbits
Authors: Hernandez David M , Zeebe Richard E , Hadden Sam
Published: December 2021

Numerical integrations of the Solar system have been carried out for decades. Their results have been used, for example to determine whether the Solar system is chaotic, whether Mercury’s orbit is stable, or to help discern Earth’s climate history. We argue that all of the past studies we consider in this work are affected by numerical chaos to different degrees, affecting the possible orbits and instability probability of Mercury, sometimes significantly. We show how to eliminate the effects of numerical chaos by resolving Mercury’s pericentre passage. We also show that several higher order symplectic maps do not exhibit significant differences in resolving pericentre passage of Mercury (at fixed time-step), making their advantages suspect for calculating long-term orbits. Resolving pericentre passage affects a wide array of orbital numerical studies, like exoplanet studies, studies of the galactic centre, and other N-body problems.
The ALMaQUEST survey IX: the nature of the resolved star forming main sequence
Authors: Baker William M , Maiolino Roberto , Bluck Asa F L , Lin Lihwai , Ellison Sara L , Belfiore Francesco , Pan Hsi-An , Thorp Mallory
Published: December 2021

We investigate the nature of the scaling relations between the surface density of star formation rate (ΣSFR), stellar mass (Σ*), and molecular gas mass ($\Sigma _{\rm H_2}$), aiming at distinguishing between the relations that are primary, i.e. more fundamental, and those which are instead an indirect by-product of the other relations. We use the ALMA-MaNGA QUEnching and STar formation survey and analyse the data by using both partial correlations and random forest regression techniques. We unambiguously find that the strongest intrinsic correlation is between ΣSFR and $\Sigma _{\rm H_2}$ (i.e. the resolved Schmidt–Kennicutt relation), followed by the correlation between $\Sigma _{\rm H_2}$ and Σ* (resolved molecular gas main sequence, rMGMS). Once these two correlations are taken into account, we find that there is no evidence for any intrinsic correlation between ΣSFR and Σ*, implying that star formation rate (SFR) is entirely driven by the amount of molecular gas, while its dependence on stellar mass (i.e. the resolved star forming main sequence, rSFMS) simply emerges as a consequence of the relationship between molecular gas and stellar mass.
Intrinsic and extrinsic gravitational flexions
Authors: Giesel Eileen Sophie , Ghosh Basundhara , Schäfer Björn Malte
Published: December 2021

The topic of this paper is a generalization of the linear model for intrinsic alignments of galaxies to intrinsic flexions: In this model, third moments of the brightness distribution reflect distortions of elliptical galaxies caused by third derivatives of the gravitational potential, or, equivalently, gradients of the tidal gravitational fields. With this extension of the linear model mediating between the brightness distribution and the tidal gravitational fields and with a quantification of the shape of the galaxy at third order provided by the HOLICs-formalism, we are able to compute angular spectra of intrinsic flexions and the cross-spectra with weak lensing flexions. Spectra for intrinsic flexions are typically an order of magnitude smaller than lensing flexions, exactly as in the case of intrinsic ellipticity in comparison to weak shear. We find a negative cross-correlation between intrinsic and extrinsic gravitational flexions, too, complementing the analogous correlation between intrinsic and extrinsic ellipticity. After discussing the physical details of the alignment model to provide intrinsic flexions and their scaling properties, we quantify the observability of the intrinsic and extrinsic flexions and estimate with the Fisher-formalism how well the alignment parameter can be determined from a Euclid-like weak lensing survey. Intrinsic flexions are very difficult to measure and yield appreciable signals only with highly optimistic parameter choices and noise levels, while being basically undetectable for more realistic flexion measurement errors.
Clinical practice guidance for childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus—secondary publication
Authors: Takei Syuji , Igarashi Toru , Kubota Tomohiro , Tanaka Eriko , Yamaguchi Kenichi , Yamazaki Kazuko , Itoh Yasuhiko , Arai Satoru , Okamoto Keisuke , Mori Masaaki
Published: December 2021

Childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) has been recognised as a more acute and severe autoimmune disease than adult-onset SLE. With the development of medications for the disease and supportive therapy, the mortality rate associated with cSLE has drastically improved; the 10-year survival rate among patients with cSLE between 1995 and 2006 in Japan was 98.3%. However, the 10-year survival rate without any permanent functional impairment remained low at 66.1%. Therefore, the current treatment goal for cSLE is to ensure that they can perform normal daily activities throughout their lives by preventing the occurrence and/or progression of organ damage.

For this purpose, appropriate treatments and evaluations are required according to the severity and risk of organ damage; however, there are no established guidelines for cSLE. Therefore, the Pediatric Rheumatology Association of Japan and the Pediatric Rheumatology Subcommittee in the Japan College of Rheumatology developed a comprehensive guidance for clinical practice based on cSLE-related data collected from Japanese national surveys and relevant articles from both domestic and international sources. However, due to the lack of indications for defined and objective evidence quality levels, this guidance should be used on the basis of the judgement of the attending physicians for individual patients.
Deformity analysis of the lower limb on the coronal plane in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis
Authors: Nejima Shuntaro , Fujimaki Hiroshi , Kumagai Ken , Choe Hyonmin , Ike Hiroyuki , Tezuka Taro , Hisatomi Kensuke , Nagaoka Akiko , Inaba Yutaka
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To evaluate joint orientation angles of the coronal plane in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in comparison with osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

In total, 72 patients with RA (90 knees) and 76 patients with OA (90 knees) who underwent total knee arthroplasty were enrolled. The hip–knee–ankle (HKA) angle, mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), mechanical medial proximal tibial angle (mMPTA), and joint line convergence angle (JLCA) were measured on preoperative long-leg radiographs in the standing position. Student’s t-test was used to assess differences in radiographic data between patients with RA and OA.

Results

In knees with RA and OA, the mean HKA was −3.4 ± 9.4° and −10.6 ± 8.0°, the mean mLDFA was 86.6 ± 3.7° and 88.2 ± 2.7°, the mean mMPTA was 85.9 ± 4.0° and 84.3 ± 3.7°, and the mean JLCA was 2.7 ± 4.2° and 6.8 ± 4.1°. All parameters in the knees with RA were more valgus than those with OA.

Conclusions

Knees with RA had a great variability in joint orientation angles on the coronal plane; the whole lower limb alignment and the femur, tibia, and joint were more valgus in knees with RA than with OA.