bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineering interface structures for heterojunction photocatalysts
Authors: Lin Min , Chen Hui , Zhang Zizhong , Wang Xuxu
Published: January 2023

This review outlines the recent accomplishments in the design and modification of interface structures in heterojunction photocatalysts, aiming to provide some useful perspectives for future research in this field.
The role of the sextet potential energy surface in O2 + N inelastic collision processes
Authors: Huang Xia , Cheng Xin-Lu
Published: January 2023

Besides 2A′ and 4A′ PESs, O2 + N inelastic collisions also occur on the 6A′ PES. State-to-state rate coefficients increase by a factor of 2 to 6 when the contribution of the 6A′ PES is considered.
Defect formation and ambivalent effects on electrochemical performance in layered sodium titanate Na2Ti3O7
Authors: Pak Yong-Chol , Rim Chung-Hyok , Hwang Suk-Gyong , Ri Kum-Chol , Yu Chol-Jun
Published: January 2023

First-principles study of intrinsic point defects and defect complexes in layered sodium titanate Na2Ti3O7 was reported to identify the effects on electrode voltage and Na diffusion activation energy for sodium-ion batteries.
Stable block copolymer single-material organic solar cells: progress and perspective
Authors: Li Bin , Yang Xue , Li Siying , Yuan Jianyu
Published: January 2023

The rapidly increasing population and decreasing supply of fossil fuels have resulted in a growing demand for energy, which has brought on an energy crisis.
Chalcogen bonding in copper(ii)-mediated synthesis
Authors: Aliyeva Vusala A. , Gurbanov Atash V. , Mahmoud Abdallah G. , Gomila Rosa M. , Frontera Antonio , Mahmudov Kamran T. , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: January 2023

Chalcogen bonding as a synthetic tool in metal-mediated synthesis and engineering of the secondary coordination sphere of copper(ii) complexes.
Site-selective methylene C–H oxidation of an alkyl diamine enabled by supramolecular recognition using a bioinspired manganese catalyst
Authors: Vicens Arnau , Vicens Laia , Olivo Giorgio , Lanzalunga Osvaldo , Di Stefano Stefano , Costas Miquel
Published: January 2023

A manganese catalyst equipped with 18-benzo-6-crown ether receptors has been employed in the catalytic oxidation of tetradecane-1,14-diamine. Binding of the protonated amines results in selective (up to 92%) oxidation of the C6/C7 methylenic sites.
Non-toxic solvent-processed tin-halide perovskite solar cells via weak coordination
Authors: Tang Zhiyue , Wang Shurong , Zhu Weike , Ding Liming , Hao Feng
Published: January 2023

The non-toxic solvent of N,N-diethylformamide exhibits weak coordination with SnI2, rendering the formation of smoother lead-free perovskite films with larger grain sizes, which facilitates the carrier transport and reduces recombination.
Chemically debondable, high-strength and tough adhesives from sulfur-modified epoxy networks
Authors: Jin Yu , Wang Zhengxiang , Hu Chengcheng , Wang Jie , Yan Kangle , He Juan , Wang Zhong , Wang Zhongkai , Yuan Liang
Published: January 2023

The natural advantages of sulfur in adhesion and dynamic exchanges are combined with epoxies to achieve high-strength debondable adhesives.
Focus on the molecular mechanisms of cisplatin resistance based on multi-omics approaches
Authors: Yue Ping , Han Bingjie , Zhao Yi
Published: January 2023

The integration of multi-omics approaches presents new opportunities and challenges for exploring the molecular mechanisms of tumor cisplatin resistance.
AgSbF6-catalyzed C3 aza-Friedel–Crafts alkylation of N,O-acetals with indoles for the synthesis of N-α indole substituted pyrrolidine and piperidine derivatives
Authors: Zhang Yu , Yi Zi-Juan , Yang Ai-Mei , Guo Jia-Ming , Li Xin , Wei Bang-Guo
Published: January 2023

An efficient approach to access chiral N-α indole substituted pyrrolidine and piperidine skeletons has been developed through a AgSbF6-catalyzed N-α aza-Friedel–Crafts alkylation of N,O-acetals 6a, 6b, 9, and 11a–11d with indoles.
Correction: Sulphonated graphene oxide catalyzed continuous flow synthesis of pyrazolo pyrimidinones, sildenafil and other PDE-5 inhibitors
Authors: Sthalam Vinay Kumar , Mahajan Bhushan , Karra Purushotham Reddy , Singh Ajay K. , Pabbaraja Srihari
Published: January 2023

Correction for ‘Sulphonated graphene oxide catalyzed continuous flow synthesis of pyrazolo pyrimidinones, sildenafil and other PDE-5 inhibitors’ by Vinay Kumar Sthalam et al., RSC Adv., 2022, 12, 326–330, https://doi.org/10.1039/D1RA08220E.
RNA interference, an emerging component of antiviral immunity in mammals
Authors: Anobile Dario Pasquale , Poirier Enzo Z.
Published: January 2023

Antiviral RNA interference (RNAi) is an immune pathway that can, in certain conditions, protect mammalian cells against RNA viruses. It depends on the recognition and dicing of viral double-stranded RNA by a protein of the Dicer family, which leads to the production of viral small interfering RNAs (vsiRNAs) that sequence-specifically guide the degradation of cognate viral RNA. If the first line of defence against viruses relies on type-I and type-III interferons (IFN) in mammals, certain cell types such as stem cells, that are hyporesponsive for IFN, instead use antiviral RNAi via the expression of a specific antiviral Dicer. In certain conditions, antiviral RNAi can also contribute to the protection of differentiated cells. Indeed, abundant vsiRNAs are detected in infected cells and efficiently guide the degradation of viral RNA, especially in cells infected with viruses disabled for viral suppressors of RNAi (VSRs), which are virally encoded blockers of antiviral RNAi. The existence and importance of antiviral RNAi in differentiated cells has however been debated in the field, because data document mutual inhibition between IFN and antiviral RNAi. Recent developments include the engineering of a small molecule inhibitor of VSR to probe antiviral RNAi in vivo, as well as the detection of vsiRNAs inside extracellular vesicles in the serum of infected mice. It suggests that using more complex, in vivo models could allow to unravel the contribution of antiviral RNAi to immunity at the host level.
Targeting the DNA damage response for cancer therapy
Authors: Curtin Nicola J.
Published: January 2023

The DNA damage response (DDR) is an elegant system, coordinating DNA repair with cell cycle checkpoints, that evolved to protect living organisms from the otherwise fatal levels of DNA damage inflicted by endogenous and environmental sources. Since many agents used to treat cancer; radiotherapy and cytotoxic chemotherapy, work by damaging DNA the DDR represents a mechanism of resistance. The original rational for the development of drugs to inhibit the DDR was to overcome this mechanism of resistance but clinical studies using this approach have not led to improvements in the therapeutic index. A more exciting approach is to exploit cancer-specific defects in the DDR, that represent vulnerabilities in the tumour and an opportunity to selectively target the tumour. PARP inhibitors (PARPi) selectively kill homologous recombination repair defective (HRD, e.g. through BRCA mutation) cells. This approach has proven successful clinically and there are now six PARPi approved for cancer therapy. Drugs targeting other aspects of the DDR are under pre-clinical and clinical evaluation as monotherapy agents and in combination studies. For this promising approach to cancer therapy to be fully realised reliable biomarkers are needed to identify tumours with the exploitable defect for monotherapy applications. The possibility that some combinations may result in toxicity to normal tissues also needs to be considered. A brief overview of the DDR, the development of inhibitors targeting the DDR and the current clinical status of such drugs is described here.
How viral infections cause neuronal dysfunction: a focus on the role of microglia and astrocytes
Authors: Hosseini Shirin , Korte Martin
Published: January 2023

In recent decades, a number of infectious viruses have emerged from wildlife or reemerged that pose a serious threat to global health and economies worldwide. Although many of these viruses have a specific target tissue, neurotropic viruses have evolved mechanisms to exploit weaknesses in immune defenses that eventually allow them to reach and infect cells of the central nervous system (CNS). Once in the CNS, these viruses can cause severe neuronal damage, sometimes with long-lasting, life-threatening consequences. Remarkably, the ability to enter the CNS and cause neuronal infection does not appear to determine whether a viral strain causes neurological complications. The cellular mechanisms underlying the neurological consequences of viral infection are not fully understood, but they involve neuroimmune interactions that have so far focused mainly on microglia. As the major immune cells in the brain, reactive microglia play a central role in neuroinflammation by responding directly or indirectly to viruses. Chronic reactivity of microglia leads to functions that are distinct from their beneficial roles under physiological conditions and may result in neuronal damage that contributes to the pathogenesis of various neurological diseases. However, there is increasing evidence that reactive astrocytes also play an important role in the response to viruses. In this review article, we summarize the recent contributions of microglia and astrocytes to the neurological impairments caused by viral infections. By expanding knowledge in this area, therapeutic approaches targeting immunological pathways may reduce the incidence of neurological and neurodegenerative disorders and increase the therapeutic window for neural protection.
Influences of surface state on thermal stability and magnetic properties of Fe-Si-B-C amorphous alloy
Authors: Zhang Suo , Li Wenqiang , Han Chengfu , Wu Shaojie , Chen Chen , Wei Ran , Wang Tan , Li Fushan
Published: January 2023

Influences of surface state on thermal stability and magnetic properties for Fe82Si1B12C5 completely amorphous alloys and Fe83Si1B12C4 amorphous alloys with partial crystallization at their surface have been investigated by layer polished-removal method. The crystallization enthalpy of α-Fe phase for the two amorphous alloys decreases obviously with polishing removal of surface layer with the thickness of removal, due to the alteration of internal stress state. An increase of only 1.2% in Fe content causes an increase of 8.4% in crystallization enthalpy of α-Fe phase for the alloy system with an initial casting thickness, indicating that the thermal stability is stress-sensitive for Fe-based amorphous alloys with high Fe content close to amorphous forming boundary are easier to crystallize. It was found that in the as-quenched state the coercivity for both of them increases linearly with the thickness of removal, which is caused by an increase in internal stress. And it was confirmed by experiment that adequate annealing can greatly improve the soft magnetic properties and alter thermal stability.
Statistical and Fractal Description of Defects on Topography Surfaces
Authors: Mwema Fredrick , Jen Tien-Chien
Published: January 2023

In this article, simulated/artificial surfaces consisting of perfectly ordered and mounded (perfect) structures and defective surfaces are characterised through statistical and fractal methods. The image sizes are designed to mimic atomic force microscopy (AFM) of scan area 1 μm2 and maximum height features of 500 nm. The simulated images are then characterised using statistical tools such as root mean square and average roughness, skewness, kurtosis, and maximum pit and peaks. Fractal analyses are also undertaken using fractal dimensions, autocorrelation, height-height correlation and power spectral density functions. The results reveal significant differences between defective and perfectly ordered and mounded surfaces. The defective surfaces exhibit higher roughness values and lower fractal dimensions values as compared to the perfect surfaces. The results in this article can help researchers to better explain their results on topography and surface evolution of thin films.
Functions of glutaminyl cyclase and its isoform in diseases
Authors: Liu Yu’e , Shi Yufeng , Wang Ping
Published: January 2023

Glutaminyl cyclase (QC; isoform: isoQC) is a zinc-dependent enzyme that catalyzes the intramolecular cyclization of N-terminal glutamine and glutamic acid residues into a pyroglutamate residue (pGlu). This conversion is a type of posttranslational modification called pyroglutamylation. The expression of QC/isoQC is regulated by epigenetics, cell homeostasis, and its substrates. Pyroglutamylation is an important maturation process during the synthesis and secretion of hormones, functioning in different diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, tumors, and other kinds of chronic diseases mediated by inflammation. IsoQC has been identified as a key regulator of the CD47-SIRPα checkpoint and is critical for the pyroglutamylation of CD47 at its SIRPα binding site, thus helping cancer cells evade immune surveillance. Inhibition of isoQC blocks the interaction between CD47 and SIRPα, leading to constrained tumor growth, indicating that isoQC is a novel target for immunotherapy. Targeting isoQC overcomes the side effects of targeting CD47 because isoQC is Golgi resident and is not expressed on erythrocytes. Small molecules and antibodies have been developed to target isoQC, and some of them have been tested in preclinical or clinical studies. Here, we briefly review the discovery history of QC/isoQC and then discuss its regulation and function in different diseases, emphasizing the unique role of isoQC in immunotherapy. Finally, we summarize the development of inhibitors and their progress in clinical trials with the hope of providing useful insights for future investigation of QC/isoQC and targeting it in various diseases.
Aufklärung von Eltern zu Fieber im Kindesalter Evaluation der
Wirkung einer Informationsbroschüre
Authors: Himbert Christina , Jenetzky Ekkehart , Wagenpfeil Gudrun , Kerdar Sara Hamideh , Schwarz Silke , Martin David
Published: January 2023

Hintergrund Fieber gilt als wichtige Abwehrreaktion des Körpers
bei Infekten und spielt im Kindesalter eine große Rolle. Unter Eltern
sind immer noch Angst und Unsicherheit im Umgang mit Fieber weit verbreitet. Als
Aufklärungsinstrument für Eltern können
Informationsbroschüren zum Wissen und Umgang mit Fieber im Kindesalter
dienen. Es wurde bisher noch nicht untersucht, ob diese Art der
Informationsvermittlung ein geeignetes Werkzeug zur Aufklärung von
Eltern darstellt.

Methode 16 Krippen und Kindergärten im Saarland wurden aufgesucht.
481 Elternteile von mindestens einem Kind zwischen 1 und 7 Jahren beantworteten
einen Fragebogen zu Wissen, Umgang und Vorgehen bei Fieber im Rahmen von
Infekten. Im Anschluss wurde eine Informationsbroschüre zu Fieber
ausgehändigt. Am Folgetag wurde der Fragebogen erneut von denjenigen 190
Eltern beantwortet, welche die Informationsbroschüre gelesen hatten. Die
Änderung durch Lektüre der Informationsbroschüre wurde
analysiert.

Ergebnisse 40% der Teilnehmenden lasen die
Informationsbroschüre. An der Nacherhebung nahmen 87%
Mütter und 13% Väter teil. 10% der Nachbefragten
hatten Hauptschulabschluss und 34% einen Universitätsabschluss.
Nach der Lektüre wurde Fieber signifikant häufiger als
nützlich angesehen und als Grund für eine Fiebersenkung wurden
signifikant seltener Fieberkrämpfe und Folgeschäden genannt.

Schlussfolgerung Informationsbroschüren zu Fieber können
ein ergänzendes Werkzeug zur Aufklärung darstellen, die
kurzfristige Wirkung wird bestätigt, die Nachhaltigkeit muss weiter
evaluiert werden. Es besteht zudem die Notwendigkeit die Mehrheit zu
erreichen.
Preterm Birth Rates and Racial Disparities during the COVID-19 Pandemic at a Single Institution in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Cate Jennifer J. M. , Craig Amanda M. , Hughes Brenna L. , Dotters-Katz Sarah K. , Wheeler Sarahn M.
Published: January 2023

Objective The COVID pandemic has been associated with varied effects on preterm birth (PTB). We sought to compare rates of PTB during the pre- and post vaccination COVID periods with pre-pandemic PTB rates, stratified by race and ethnicity.

Study Design Retrospective cohort comparing all deliveries over 20 weeks at a single tertiary center during “early” (March 2020–June 2020) versus “late” COVID (March 2021–June 2021), and “late” COVID versus pre-COVID (March to June 2014–2019). PTBs <37, <34, and <28 weeks were compared and stratified by race/ethnicity.

Results A total of 16,483 deliveries occurred including 2,068 “early” COVID, 2,115 “late” COVID, and 12,300 pre-COVID. The PTB rate during “late” COVID was lower compared to “early” COVID (12.1 vs. 14.6%, p = 0.02). Rate of PTB <34 was also lower during “late” COVID (4.4 vs. 5.7%, p = 0.05). PTB <28 did not differ. When controlling for prior PTB, “late” COVID remained associated with a decreased risk of PTB compared to “early” COVID, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 0.82 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.68, 0.98). Although there was no difference in PTB among Hispanic individuals when comparing “late” COVID versus pre-COVID, when further subdivided, a small number of Hispanic Puerto Rican individuals had higher odds of PTB < 37 during “late” COVID versus pre-COVID (aOR = 4.29 [95% CI: 1.12, 16.4]). Additionally, White individuals had reduced odds of PTB <37 (aOR = 0.80 [95% CI: 0.65, 0.98]) during “late” COVID versus pre-COVID while the PTB rate was unchanged when comparing “late” COVID versus pre-COVID in all other racial and ethnic groups.

Conclusion During 2021, PTB rates decreased from rates observed in 2020 at the height of COVID restrictions. Among White birthing individuals, PTB decreased in 2021 compared to pre-COVID rates. This decrease was not observed in Black and Hispanic birthing individuals. These data highlight the continued racially disparate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on PTB rates.

Key Points
Pregnancy-Associated Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in the United States
Authors: Varvoutis Megan S. , Wein Lauren E. , Sugrue Ronan , Darwin Kristin C. , Vaught Arthur J. , Meng Marie-Louise , Hughes Brenna L. , Grotegut Chad A. , Federspiel Jerome J.
Published: January 2023

Objective The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy has increased in the adult population. Studies from the H1N1 influenza pandemic suggest that ECMO deployment in pregnancy is associated with favorable outcomes. With increasing numbers of pregnant women affected by COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) and potentially requiring this life-saving therapy, we sought to compare comorbidities, costs, and outcomes between pregnancy- and nonpregnancy-associated ECMO therapy among reproductive-aged female patients.

Study Design We used the 2013 to 2019 National Readmissions Database. Diagnosis and procedural coding were used to identify ECMO deployment, potential indications, comorbid conditions, and pregnancy outcomes. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality during the patient's initial ECMO stay. Secondary outcomes included length of stay and hospital charges/costs, occurrence of thromboembolic or bleeding complications during ECMO hospitalization, and mortality and readmissions up to 330 days following ECMO stay. Univariate and multivariate regression models were used to model the associations between pregnancy status and outcomes.

Results The sample included 324 pregnancy-associated hospitalizations and 3,805 nonpregnancy-associated hospitalizations, corresponding to national estimates of 665 and 7,653 over the study period, respectively. Pregnancy-associated ECMO had lower incidence of in-hospital death (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.56, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.41–0.75) and bleeding complications (aOR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.49–0.93). Length of stay was significantly shorter (adjusted rate ratio (aRR): 0.86, 95% CI: 0.77–0.96) and total hospital costs were less (aRR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.75–0.93). Differences in the incidence of thromboembolic events (aOR: 1.04, 95% CI: 0.78–1.38) were not statistically significant.

Conclusion Pregnancy-associated ECMO therapy had lower incidence of in-hospital death, bleeding complications, total inpatient cost, and length of stay when compared with nonpregnancy-associated ECMO therapy without increased thromboembolic complications. Pregnancy-associated ECMO therapy should be offered to eligible patients.

Key Points
The Application of a Standard Risk Threshold for the Stratification of Maternal Morbidity among Population Subgroups
Authors: Clapp Mark A. , James Kaitlyn E. , Mccoy Thomas H. , Perlis Roy H. , Kaimal Anjali J.
Published: January 2023

Objective The aim of this study was to determine if a universally applied risk score threshold for severe maternal morbidity (SMM) resulted in different performance characteristics among subgroups of the population.

Study Design This is a retrospective cohort study of deliveries that occurred between July 1, 2016, and June 30, 2020, in a single health system. We examined the performance of a validated comorbidity score to stratify SMM risk in our cohort. We considered the risk score that was associated with the highest decile of predicted risk as a “screen positive” for morbidity. We then used this same threshold to calculate the sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV) of this “highest risk” designation among subgroups of the overall cohort based on the following characteristics: age, race/ethnicity, parity, gestational age, and planned mode of delivery.

Results In the overall cohort of 53,982 women, the C-statistic was 0.755 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.741–0.769) and calibration plot demonstrated that the risk score was well calibrated. The model performed less well in the following groups: non-White or Hispanic (C-statistic, 0.734; 95% CI, 0.712–0.755), nulliparas (C-statistic, 0.735; 95% CI, 0.716–0.754), term deliveries (C-statistic, 0.712; 95% CI, 0.694–0.729), and planned vaginal delivery (C-statistic, 0.728; 95% CI, 0.709–0.747). There were differences in the PPVs by gestational age (7.8% term and 29.7% preterm) and by planned mode of delivery (8.7% vaginal and 17.7% cesarean delivery). Sensitivities were lower in women who were <35 years (36.6%), non-White or Hispanic (40.7%), nulliparous (38.9%), and those having a planned vaginal delivery (40.9%) than their counterparts.

Conclusion The performance of a risk score for SMM can vary by population subgroups when using standard thresholds derived from the overall cohort. If applied without such considerations, such thresholds may be less likely to identify certain subgroups of the population that may be at increased risk of SMM.

Key Points
An Efficient Catalyst-Free Direct Approach to 5-Polyfluoroalkyl-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiones
Authors: Slivka Mikhailo V. , Holovko-Kamoshenkova Oksana M. , Hrdina Radim , Baumer Vyacheslav N. , Korol Nataliya I. , Sokolenko Liubov V. , Lendel Vasil G.
Published: January 2023

An easy to handle high-efficient approach to 5-polyfluoroalkyl-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiones (11 examples, up to 91% yield) is reported. The tautomerism of thione and thiol forms for the obtained products is discussed. A one step procedure for 6,6-dimethyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)-5,6-dihydro[1,3]thiazolo[2,3-c][1,2,4]triazole formation from trifluoroacetic acid and 4-methallylthiosemicarbazide has been developed. The structures of the products were unambiguously determined by complex NMR investigation and by single crystal X-ray diffraction.
Epilepsy in Joubert Syndrome: A Still Few Explored Matter
Authors: Prato Adriana , Scuderi Anna , Amore Greta , Spoto Giulia , Salpietro Vincenzo , Ceravolo Antonio , Farello Giovanni , Iapadre Giulia , Pironti Erica , Dicanio Daniela , Rosa Gabriella Di
Published: January 2023

Epilepsy is rarely associated with Joubert's syndrome and related disorders (JSRD), being reported only in 3% of cases. Few patients have been described, moreover, with poor evidences of specific seizures' semiology or standard of practice for pharmacological treatment. Epilepsy is likely to be related to brain malformations in ciliopathies. Beyond the typical hindbrain malformation, the molar tooth sign, other cerebral anomalies variably reported in JSRD, such as generalized polymicrogyria, hamartomas, periventricular nodular heterotopia, and hippocampal defects, have been described. Herein, we aimed to revise the main clinical and etiopathogenetic characteristics of epilepsy associated with JSRD.
Radiological Features of Joubert's Syndrome
Authors: Stroscio Giovanni , Cuppari Caterina , Ceravolo Maria Domenica , Salpietro Annamaria , Battaglia Francesco , Sallemi Alessia , Fusco Monica , Ceravolo Antonio , Iapadre Giulia , Calì Elisa , Impollonia Daniela , Granata Francesca
Published: January 2023

Joubert syndrome (JS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder. All patients affected by this syndrome presented a characteristic picture of cranial fossa malformations, called “molar tooth sign.” This sign is defined by the presence in axial section at the level of a deck/midbrain, of hypo/dysplasia of the cerebellar vermis, abnormally deep interpeduncular fossa and horizontalized thickened and elongated superior cerebellar peduncles. Although “molar tooth sign” is peculiar of JS, other radiological findings have been also reported in these patients. Here, the authors briefly assumed the principal magnetic resonance imaging findings of JS.
Neuromodulation in Children with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy
Authors: Ali Irfan , Houck Kimberly M. , Sully Krystal
Published: January 2023

The introduction of neuromodulation was a revolutionary advancement in the antiseizure armamentarium for refractory epilepsy. The basic principle of neuromodulation is to deliver an electrical stimulation to the desired neuronal site to modify the neuronal functions not only at the site of delivery but also at distant sites by complex neuronal processes like disrupting the neuronal circuitry and amplifying the functions of marginally functional neurons. The modality is considered open-loop when electrical stimulation is provided at a set time interval or closed-loop when delivered in response to an incipient seizure. Neuromodulation in individuals older than 18 years with epilepsy has proven efficacious and safe. The use of neuromodulation is extended off-label to pediatric patients with epilepsy and the results are promising. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), responsive neurostimulation (RNS), and deep brain stimulation (DBS) are Food and Drug Administration-approved therapeutic techniques. The VNS provides retrograde signaling to the central nervous system, whereas DBS and RNS are more target specific in the central nervous system. While DBS is open-loop and approved for stimulation of the anterior nucleus of the thalamus, the RNS is closed-loop and can stimulate any cortical or subcortical structure. We will review different modalities and their clinical efficacy in individuals with epilepsy, with a focus on pediatric patients.
Methylene Blue Use in Pediatrics
Authors: Moss Rachel , Derespina Kim R. , Frye Jessica , Kaushik Shubhi
Published: January 2023

Catecholamine-resistant shock, also known as vasoplegia, is a challenging entity with a significant risk of mortality. We seek to provide further data on the safety and effectiveness of methylene blue (MB) for vasoplegic shock in the pediatric population. We conducted a retrospective observational study of pediatric patients admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit or pediatric cardiac intensive care unit at Mount Sinai Kravis Children's Hospital from 2011 to 2021 who received MB for refractory shock. A list of patients was obtained by performing a pharmaceutical query from 2011 to 2021 for “MB.” Chart review was performed to determine indication for use and to collect demographic and clinical data. There were 33 MB administrations: 18 administrations (16 unique patients) for vasoplegic shock, 11 for surgical dye, and 4 for methemoglobinemia. The median age was 5 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 0.08, 13). Ten patients required MB following congenital cardiac repair (62.5%); one administration for myocarditis, septic shock, postcardiac arrest, high output chylothorax, scoliosis repair, and one multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. No patients experienced hemolytic anemia or serotonin syndrome following administration. The median dose of MB was 1 mg/kg. Vasoactive-inotrope score (VIS) improved in 4 out of 18 administrations at 1 hour. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) improved in 10 out of 18 administrations at 1 hour. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) improved in 8 out of 18 administrations at 1 hour. VIS, MAP, and SBP improved in 8 out of 18 administrations at 6 hours. MB may be safely considered as rescue therapy in catecholamine-resistant shock in pediatrics.
The variational principle, conformal and disformal transformations, and the degrees of freedom
Authors: Golovnev Alexey
Published: January 2023

Conformal and disformal transformations are now being very intensively studied in the context of various modified gravity theories. In particular, some special classes of them can be used for constructing mimetic dark matter models. Recently, it has been shown that many more transformations of this type, if not virtually all of them when the coefficients depend on the scalar kinetic term, can produce new solutions with mimetic properties. The aim of this paper is to explain how it works at the level of the variational principle, and to express some worries about the viability of these models.
Light-induced ordering of nanodomains in lithium tantalate as a result of multiple scanning by IR laser irradiation
Authors: Shur V. Ya. , Kosobokov M. S. , Makaev A. V. , Kuznetsov D. K.
Published: January 2023

The ordering of a light-induced structure of isolated circular ferroelectric nanodomains was discovered in lithium tantalate crystals under multiple scanning by infrared laser irradiation. The effect was considered as domain arising and growth under the action of alternating in sign pyroelectric field arising during sample heating and subsequent cooling. The circular domains appeared due to 1D to 2D shape transformation after the second scan and grew during subsequent scanning by merging with arising domains accompanied by shape restoration. The ordering of the domain pattern during multiple scanning characterized by an increase in the peak of the autocorrelation function was attributed to domain interaction. This mechanism was confirmed by computer simulation using the kinetic approach based on the analogy between the growth of domains and crystals. It was demonstrated that the quasi-regular pattern of one-size circular domains could be created by scanning with shift. The discovered domain ordering effect is similar to that in magnetic materials.
Demonstration and analysis of ambipolar SnO inverter with high gain
Authors: Mashooq Kishwar , Jo Jaesung , Peterson Rebecca L.
Published: January 2023

Ambipolar materials offer a unique and simple route toward cost-effective complementary thin film circuits. SnO is one of the few metal oxide semiconductors that demonstrates ambipolar behavior. In this work, we demonstrated an ambipolar SnO inverter with record high inverter gain and corroborated our experimental results with a comprehensive analytical model. First, we developed ambipolar SnO thin film transistors (TFTs) with symmetric p-type and n-type conduction. Using these ambipolar SnO TFTs, we fabricated ambipolar SnO inverters. Our ambipolar SnO inverter shows a record gain of 432 (V/V), which is the highest reported among all ambipolar material systems. To understand our high inverter gain, we developed a comprehensive analytical model to analyze the transition region of an ambipolar inverter. Our analytical model showed an excellent match with our experiment results. Furthermore, our analytical model shows that to achieve a high inverter gain and a voltage transition point in the middle of the supply voltage range, we must minimize channel length modulation and match the p- and n-type behaviors of the ambipolar TFTs. By expanding our understanding of ambipolar inverter behavior, this work highlights the possibilities of ambipolar SnO TFTs for future high performance complementary thin film circuits.
Explicit implicit domain splitting for two phase flows with phase transition
Authors: May S. , Thein F.
Published: January 2023

Two phase flows that include phase transition, especially phase creation, with a sharp interface remain a challenging task for numerics. We consider the isothermal Euler equations with phase transition between a liquid and a vapor phase. The phase interface is modeled as a sharp interface and the mass transfer across the phase boundary is modeled by a kinetic relation. Existence and uniqueness results were proven in the work by Hantke and Thein [“A general existence result for isothermal two-phase flows with phase transition,” J. Hyperbolic Differ. Equations 16, 595–637 (2019)]. Using sharp interfaces for simulating nucleation and cavitation results in the grid containing tiny cells that are several orders of magnitude smaller than the remaining grid cells. This forces explicit time stepping schemes to take tiny time steps on these cells. As a remedy, we suggest an explicit implicit domain splitting where the majority of the grid cells is treated explicitly and only the neighborhood of the tiny cells is treated implicitly. We use dual time stepping to solve the resulting small implicit systems. Our numerical results indicate that the new scheme is robust and provides significant speed-up compared to a fully explicit treatment.
Investigation on mechanisms of fast opposing water waves influencing overlying wind using simulation and theoretical models
Authors: Cao Tao , Liu Xu , Xu Xiaowen , Deng Bingqing
Published: January 2023

We use large-eddy simulation (LES) and theoretical analyses to study the turbulent flow over fast opposing water waves. A novel nonlinear viscous model for airflow perturbations induced by Stokes waves is developed, which can account for wave-perturbation viscous stress and the nonlinear forcing by multimode interactions of wave-correlated quantities in the wind field. Overall, the nonlinear viscous model can describe the wave-coherent airflow in the LES results for high-order Stokes waves, which demonstrates the negligible effects of wave-perturbation turbulent stress in the wind. According to the model, the dominant components of the fundamental mode of the airflow perturbation primarily result from the linear response of the wind to the wave and, thus, are not substantially affected by the nonlinear forcing. However, the weak components of the fundamental mode, which produce the form drag on the wave, are created by the combined effects of the nonlinear forcing and the wave-perturbation viscous stress. We found that the main mechanism for generating the nonlinear forcing is the interaction between the second harmonic and the fundamental mode of the wave-correlated quantities in the air. In this mechanism, wave nonlinearity exerts its effects mainly through the second harmonic of the wave surface, instead of the second harmonic of the wave kinematics. Therefore, it is further demonstrated that a second-order Stokes wave is sufficient to capture the wave nonlinearity effects on the form drag.
Establishment of an enhanced wall function using the heat transfer analogy method for internal combustion engines
Authors: Cao Jingjie , Jia Ming , Cai Yikang , Li Yaopeng , Liu Hong
Published: January 2023

The thermal wall function method offers an effective pathway for modeling heat transfer in engines. This paper reexamined the traditional construction method of the thermal wall function and improved it by correcting the integration scheme in the boundary layer; then, an enhanced heat transfer model was introduced. Since the heat release from the chemical reactions is of great significance to the near-wall flow, it is necessary to construct a law of the wall including the heat release effect. A new law of the wall including the impacts of the pressure work and the heat release from chemical reactions was obtained based on the analogy between the momentum transfer and the heat transfer predicted using the improved thermal wall function. In the analogy process, the formula of the eddy-viscosity ratio was reconstructed for the whole boundary layer, and then, the Prandtl number for turbulent flow was improved. The current research is beneficial for predicting the near-wall flow and heat transfer characteristics under conditions with strong interactions between the wall and the flame.
SPHydro: Promoting smoothed particle hydrodynamics method toward extensive applications in ocean engineering
Authors: Lyu Hong-Guan , Sun Peng-Nan , Huang Xiao-Ting , Peng Yu-Xiang , Liu Nian-Nian , Zhang Xiang , Xu Yang , Zhang A-Man
Published: January 2023

This paper aims at presenting a general-purpose-oriented and fully parallelized meshless framework to simulate complex Fluid–Structure Interaction (FSI) problems in ocean engineering. In this framework, a Weakly Compressible Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (WCSPH) solver is combined with several advanced pre- and post-processing techniques. Based on the framework, we have been developing our in-house WCSPH-FSI package named SPHydro for solving hydrodynamic problems involving complex FSI processes in an accurate, efficient, and convenient manner. Three benchmarks are performed to qualitatively and quantitatively validate the accuracy and convergence of SPHydro. In addition, several practical applications are also provided to further highlight the generality and applicability of SPHydro in ocean engineering simulations. It is demonstrated that SPHydro holds satisfactory performance in solving complex FSI problems in ocean engineering and that the present framework can be further developed to tackle more complex FSI problems for general engineering applications due to its high flexibility and extensibility.
Exploration of robust machine learning strategy for subgrid scale stress modeling
Authors: Abekawa A. , Minamoto Y. , Osawa K. , Shimamoto H. , Tanahashi M.
Published: January 2023

Various aspects of machine learning (ML) are explored to resolve limitations appearing in current ML-based subgrid scale (SGS) stress modeling. Graph neural network (GNN), applied in the present study, allows flexible and rigorous use of spatial convolution regardless of the proximity to physical boundaries and mesh uniformity. Along with GNN, the proposed feature scaling method relies only on the local quantities and can be applied for a range of flow configurations. A data augmentation method is also proposed to consider the rotational invariant. All these techniques are implemented in the present model, and the model is compared with versions of corresponding ML-based models including a typical multilayer perceptron (MLP) for various flow configurations. The results showed that both GNN and MLP models yield reasonable prediction overall. However, GNN shows superior performance near-wall due to spatial convolution. Although the present method implements the rotational invariant discretely, the augmentation method is found to produce consistent performance for any rotated coordinates. The minimal flow configuration, which can train a model to predict a range of flow configurations, is also explored. It is found that a model trained based on turbulent channel flows alone yields a close level of prediction robustness to the ones trained with multiple flow configurations. The developed GNN model is implemented in OpenFOAM, and large eddy simulation (LES) results are compared with corresponding direct numerical simulation data. With these proposed techniques, ML-based SGS models can be improved in terms of robustness and usability for a range of LES applications.
Characterisation and evaluation of wheat genetic resources for heat stress tolerance using stay-green traits
Authors: Soni Aarti , Munjal Renu
Published: January 2023

Context Post-anthesis heat stress is a major concern for wheat. Stay-green (SG) can serve as a crucial marker for plant adaptation to it. Though genetic resources provide an invaluable gene pool for crop breeding, collections are still uncharacterised and their potential is yet to be explored. Aims This study was planned to characterise and evaluate wheat genetic resources, including wild germplasm, for heat stress tolerance using SG traits as selection criteria. Methods Experiment was conducted with thirty wheat genotypes under late and very late sown environments for 2 years. Genotypes were assessed for SG traits like Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Soil Plant Analysis Development Chlorophyll Meter Reading (SCMR), Leaf Senescence Rate (LSR), chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm), canopy temperature (CT), phenological traits, morphological traits, yield and its attributes; and characterised into three categories viz., slow senescing, intermediate senescing and fast senescing, based on their rate of senescence. Key results Results indicate that slow-senescing genotypes had a significantly higher NDVI, SCMR and yield as compared to fast-senescing genotypes. NDVI, SCMR, Fv/Fm, days to heading, days to anthesis, days to maturity, grain weight per spike, 100-grain weight and biomass were significantly positively correlated whereas LSR and CT were significantly negatively correlated with grain yield. From the principal component analysis studies, it was revealed that genotypes with a high SCMR, a low LSR, and a high grain yield were placed together as SG genotypes. Conclusions This study confirms that genotypes with SG traits performed better under heat stress. Implications From the wild, genotypes HTW 11 (W), HTW 67 (W) and HTW 6 (W) can be utilised for heat tolerance breedings.
Genetic monitoring of Indian rice (Oryza sativa) cultivars over decadal periods employing gene-specific markers and yield component traits
Authors: Maneesha Kunuthuru , Bhargavi Mondem , Withanawasam Darsha Manjula , Shanthi Penumalli , Kommana Madhavilatha , Issa Keerthi , Padherla Lavanya Kumari , Veeraghattapu Roja , Islam Md Aminul , Tanti Bhaben , Palagiri Sudhakar , Vemireddy Lakshminarayana Reddy
Published: January 2023

Context Regular genetic monitoring of rice diversity provides informed direction for plant breeders when selecting parents in breeding programs. Aims The investigation was conducted to assess the trends of decade-wise genetic diversity in popular Indian rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes. Methods We screened 62 genotypes including popular rice varieties released from the 1970s to 2010s in India along with landraces, using gene-specific markers and some of the key yield and yield-contributing traits. Key results Using gene-specific markers, genetic diversity has shown a downward trend from landraces to the 2010s. Qualitative analysis revealed that more alleles were present in landraces than released varieties. The disappearance of alleles was prominently observed in varieties released in the 1970s and even more so in the 2010s, which suggests that present-day cultivars are losing several valuable alleles of the key yield genes. Genetic diversity assessed using phenotypic data also exhibited a downward trend towards the 2010s. Molecular and phenotypic data on genetic diversity were used to group the rice genotypes, revealing that genotypes with common parents grouped together. Conclusions Genetic diversity has shown a downward trend from landraces to the 2010s, as assessed using both gene-specific markers and phenotypic data, although with slight deviations among various decades. Implications This study reinforces the fact that assessment of temporal trends in genetic diversity at regular intervals is warranted to meet future food demands while conserving on-farm crop diversity.
Skinks of Oceania, New Guinea, and Eastern Wallacea: an underexplored biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Slavenko Alex , Allison Allen , Austin Christopher C. , Bauer Aaron M. , Brown Rafe M. , Fisher Robert N. , Ineich Ivan , Iova Bulisa , Karin Benjamin R. , Kraus Fred , Mecke Sven , Meiri Shai , Morrison Clare , Oliver Paul M. , O’Shea Mark , Richmond Jonathan Q. , Shea Glenn M. , Tallowin Oliver J. S. , Chapple David G.
Published: January 2023

Context Skinks comprise the dominant component of the terrestrial vertebrate fauna in Oceania, New Guinea, and Eastern Wallacea (ONGEW). However, knowledge of their diversity is incomplete, and their conservation needs are poorly understood. Aims To explore the diversity and threat status of the skinks of ONGEW and identify knowledge gaps and conservation needs. Methods We compiled a list of all skink species occurring in the region and their threat categories designated by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. We used available genetic sequences deposited in the National Center for Biotechnology Information’s GenBank to generate a phylogeny of the region’s skinks. We then assessed their diversity within geographical sub-divisions and compared to other reptile taxa in the region. Key results Approximately 300 species of skinks occur in ONGEW, making it the second largest global hotspot of skink diversity following Australia. Many phylogenetic relationships remain unresolved, and many species and genera are in need of taxonomic revision. One in five species are threatened with extinction, a higher proportion than almost all reptile families in the region. Conclusions ONGEW contain a large proportion of global skink diversity on <1% of the Earth’s landmass. Many are endemic and face risks such as habitat loss and invasive predators. Yet, little is known about them, and many species require taxonomic revision and threat level re-assessment. Implications The skinks of ONGEW are a diverse yet underexplored group of terrestrial vertebrates, with many species likely facing extreme risks in the near future. Further research is needed to understand the threats they face and how to protect them.
DNA topoisomerase 2-associated proteins PATL1 and PATL2 regulate the biogenesis of hERG K
+
channels
Authors: Yao Li , Ruan Mei-Yu , Ye Shi-Wei , Cai Shi-Qing
Published: January 2023

The human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) K
+
channel conducts a rapidly activating delayed rectifier K
+
current (I
Kr
), which is essential for normal electrical activity of the heart. Precise regulation of hERG channel biogenesis is critical for serving its physiological functions, and deviations from the regulation result in human diseases. However, the mechanism underlying the precise regulation of hERG channel biogenesis remains elusive. Here, by using forward genetic screen, we found that PATR-1, the
Caenorhabditis elegans
homolog of the yeast DNA topoisomerase 2-associated protein PAT1, is a critical regulator for the biogenesis of UNC-103, the ERG K
+
channel in
C. elegans
. A loss-of-function mutation in
patr-1
down-regulates the expression level of UNC-103 proteins and suppresses the phenotypic defects resulted from a gain-of-function mutation in the
unc-103
gene. Furthermore, downregulation of PATL1 and PATL2, the human homologs of PAT1, decreases protein levels and the current density of native hERG channels in SH-SY5Y cells and human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs). Knockdown of PATL1 and PATL2 elongates the duration of action potentials in hiPSC-CMs, suggesting that PATL1 and PATL2 affect the function of hERG channels and hence electrophysiological characteristics in the human heart. Further studies found that PATL1 and PATL2 interact with TFIIE, a general transcription factor required for forming the RNA polymerase II preinitiation complex, and dual-luciferase reporter assays indicated that PATL1 and PATL2 facilitate the transcription of hERG mRNAs. Together, our study discovers that evolutionarily conserved DNA topoisomerase 2-associated proteins regulate the biogenesis of hERG channels via a transcriptional mechanism.