bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced vagal modulations of heart rate during overwintering in Antarctica
Authors: Maggioni Martina A. , Merati Giampiero , Castiglioni Paolo , Mendt Stefan , Gunga Hanns-Christian , Stahn Alexander C.
Published: December 2020

Long-duration Antarctic expeditions are characterized by isolation, confinement, and extreme environments. Here we describe the time course of cardiac autonomic modulation assessed by heart rate variability (HRV) during 14-month expeditions at the German Neumayer III station in Antarctica. Heart rate recordings were acquired in supine position in the morning at rest once before the expedition (baseline) and monthly during the expedition from February to October. The total set comprised twenty-five healthy crewmembers (n = 15 men, 38 ± 6 yrs, n = 10 women, 32 ± 6 yrs, mean ± SD). High frequency (HF) power and the ratio of low to high frequency power (LF/HF) were used as indices of vagal modulation and sympathovagal balance. HF power adjusted for baseline differences decreased significantly during the expedition, indicating a gradual reduction in vagal tone. LF/HF powers ratio progressively shifted toward a sympathetic predominance reaching statistical significance in the final trimester (August to October) relative to the first trimester (February to April). This effect  was particularly pronounced in women. The depression of cardio-vagal tone and the shift toward a sympathetic predominance observed throughout the overwintering suggest a long-term cardiac autonomic modulation in response to isolation and confinement during Antartic overwintering.
Long-term exposure of human endothelial cells to metformin modulates miRNAs and isomiRs
Authors: Giuliani Angelica , Londin Eric , Ferracin Manuela , Mensà Emanuela , Prattichizzo Francesco , Ramini Deborah , Marcheselli Fiorella , Recchioni Rina , Rippo Maria Rita , Bonafè Massimiliano , Rigoutsos Isidore , Olivieri Fabiola , Sabbatinelli Jacopo
Published: December 2020

Increasing evidence suggest that the glucose-lowering drug metformin exerts a valuable anti-senescence role. The ability of metformin to affect the biogenesis of selected microRNAs (miRNAs) was recently suggested. MicroRNA isoforms (isomiRs) are distinct variations of miRNA sequences, harboring addition or deletion of one or more nucleotides at the 5′ and/or 3′ ends of the canonical miRNA sequence. We performed a comprehensive analysis of miRNA and isomiR profile in human endothelial cells undergoing replicative senescence in presence of metformin. Metformin treatment was associated with the differential expression of 27 miRNAs (including miR-100-5p, -125b-5p, -654-3p, -217 and -216a-3p/5p). IsomiR analysis revealed that almost 40% of the total miRNA pool was composed by non-canonical sequences. Metformin significantly affects the relative abundance of 133 isomiRs, including the non-canonical forms of the aforementioned miRNAs. Pathway enrichment analysis suggested that pathways associated with proliferation and nutrient sensing are modulated by metformin-regulated miRNAs and that some of the regulated isomiRs (e.g. the 5′ miR-217 isomiR) are endowed with alternative seed sequences and share less than half of the predicted targets with the canonical form. Our results show that metformin reshapes the senescence-associated miRNA/isomiR patterns of endothelial cells, thus expanding our insight into the cell senescence molecular machinery.
Big Data and Its Emerging Role in Precision Medicine and Therapeutic Response
Authors: Epsi Nusrat J. , Panja Sukanya , Mitrofanova Antonina
Published: December 2020

High-throughput molecular profiling has revolutionized our understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in disease progression and treatment response. As more information from patients' high-throughput molecular and clinical profiles (i.e., Big Data) becomes accessible, there is a significant shift in personalized and precision-based patient-centric approaches, allowing for an individualized therapeutic planning and more accurate prediction of therapeutic success or failure. Here, we discuss the most commonly utilized Big Data types (touching on most recent advances), including genome, DNA methylome, and transcriptome (i.e., RNA abundance and alternative splicing), alongside computational methods for their effective analysis. Further, we discuss how Big Data integration helps in unveiling complex molecular relationships involved in treatment response in oncology, including identification of biological pathways as markers of treatment resistance, and how its utilization builds a foundation for improved clinical decision making and precision medicine.
Analytical Challenges of Next-generation Sequencing in Precision Medicine
Authors: Liebers Matthew R.
Published: December 2020

The groundbreaking advances in life science technology have required increasingly sophisticated analytical approaches to yield results that are meaningful scientifically and clinically. Many diagnostics inherent to precision medicine are also limited by patient samples with specific and sufficient material. Parsing out true biological signals from background noise is further restricted by the sensitivity and accuracy of technologies and bioinformatic pipelines, as well as by challenges in technical replication and validation. Deducing the clinical significance of identified genetic markers or other biomarkers may require very large datasets, as well as supporting experimental and clinical data. Furthermore, the evaluation of therapeutic response at the populational level necessitates a level of scrutiny where efficacy and safety are analyzed in a highly multifactorial and highly confounding environment so that response can be successfully isolated in pertinent subpopulations.
POCT for Nucleic Acids by Using Colorimetric Nanoprobes
Authors: Wang Shiyao , Lee Thomas M. H.
Published: December 2020

Nucleic acid detection in point-of-care settings would bring tremendous benefits to early diagnosis. Colorimetric nanoprobes have proved to be promising for point-of-care testing (POCT) thanks to their simple result readout (qualitative visual and/or quantitative transmittance/absorbance readout). In this chapter, two types of colorimetric nanoprobes (i.e., gold nanoparticles and enzyme mimetics) for nucleic acid testing are introduced. To realize highly sensitive detection, some of these colorimetric assays have been coupled with nucleic acid amplification, which can be classified into thermocycling and isothermal amplification reactions. Current challenges for widespread applications of point-of-care nucleic acid testing are discussed.
An SPR investigation into the therapeutic drug monitoring of the anticancer drug imatinib with selective aptamers operating in human plasma
Authors: Tartaggia Stefano , Meneghello Anna , Bellotto Ottavia , Poetto Ariana Soledad , Zanchetta Martina , Posocco Bianca , Bunka David , Polo Federico , Toffoli Giuseppe
Published: December 2020

An ss-DNA aptamer-based biosensor was devised to detect the anticancer drug imatinib by means of surface plasmon resonance.
Electroanalytical study of five carbosilane dendrimers at the interface between two immiscible electrolyte solutions
Authors: Kowalewska Karolina , Rodriguez-Prieto Tamara , Skrzypek Slawomira , Cano Jesús , Ramírez Rafael Gómez , Poltorak Lukasz
Published: December 2020

The ITIES was used to study the interfacial behavior of 5 carbosilane dendrimers terminated with imidazolium groups. We have found that these chemical species undergo ion transfer reactions coupled to interfacial adsorption/desorption processes.
Photo-driven self-powered biosensors for ultrasensitive microRNA detection based on metal–organic framework-controlled release behavior
Authors: Yu Ying , Xu Xiuli , Su Qiao , Fu Tengfei , Liu Wenquan , Chen Guangquan
Published: December 2020

“Signal-on” photoelectrochemical biofuel cell-based self-powered biosensors based on metal–organic framework-controlled release behavior were constructed for ultrasensitive microRNA detection.
Tunable, bacterio-instructive scaffolds made from functional graphenic materials
Authors: Eckhart Karoline E. , Arnold Anne M. , Starvaggi Francesca A. , Sydlik Stefanie A.
Published: December 2020

Functional graphenic material (FGM) scaffolds instruct bacterial attachment through electrostatic interactions with the bacterial cell wall.
Spectroscopic discernibility of dopants and axial ligands in pyridinic FeN4 environments relevant to single-atom catalysts
Authors: Gallenkamp Charlotte , Kramm Ulrike I. , Krewald Vera
Published: December 2020

A guide for the spectroscopic differentiation of iron complexes with square-pyramidal, conjugated, pyridinic environments is presented.
Access to 1-indolyltetrahydro-β-carbolines via metal-free cross-dehydrogenative coupling: the total synthesis of eudistomin U, isoeudistomin U and 19-bromoisoeudistomin U
Authors: Ranjani Ganapathy , Nagarajan Rajagopal
Published: December 2020

A highly selective metal-free CDC approach for the synthesis of 1-indolyltetrahydro-β-carbolines is developed. The total synthesis of biologically important alkaloids, eudistomin U and isoeudistomin U and the first total synthesis of 19-bromoisoeudistomin U were accomplished.
Insights into D4h@metal-symmetry single-molecule magnetism: the case of a dysprosium-bis(boryloxide) complex
Authors: Thomas-Hargreaves Lewis R. , Hunger David , Kern Michal , Wooles Ashley J. , van Slageren Joris , Chilton Nicholas F. , Liddle Stephen T.
Published: December 2020

We report a D4h@Dy single-molecule magnet (SMM) with a Ueff energy barrier of 1565 K, one of the highest energy barriers for any 6-coordinate lanthanide SMM.
Supramolecular architectures sustained by delocalised C–I⋯π(arene) interactions in molecular crystals and the propensity of their formation
Authors: Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: December 2020

A survey of delocalised C–I⋯π(chelate ring) interactions is presented.
Electronic structure modelling of the edge-functionalisation of graphene by MnxOy particles
Authors: Terrett Richard N. L. , Tsekouras George , Tsuzuki Takuya , Swiegers Gerhard F. , Pace Ronald J. , Stranger Robert
Published: December 2020

Electronic structure calculations reveal that edge functionalised graphene supports facile chelation of oxo-manganese clusters of electrocatalytic relevance.
Hydroxide promotes ion pairing in the NaNO2–NaOH–H2O system
Authors: Graham Trent R. , Dembowski Mateusz , Wang Hsiu-Wen , Mergelsberg Sebastian T. , Nienhuis Emily T. , Reynolds Jacob G. , Delegard Calvin H. , Wei Yihui , Snyder Michelle , Leavy Ian I. , Baum Steven R. , Fountain Matthew S. , Clark Sue B. , Rosso Kevin M. , Pearce Carolyn I.
Published: December 2020

The solubility and spectroscopy of sodium nitrite in sodium hydroxide solutions are detailed to provide insight into processes underlying solubility.
How to reprogram the excitonic properties and solid-state morphologies of π-conjugated supramolecular polymers
Authors: Liu Kaixuan , Paulino Victor , Mukhopadhyay Arindam , Bernard Brianna , Kumbhar Amar , Liu Chuan , Olivier Jean-Hubert
Published: December 2020

Redox-assisted assembly offers new avenues to optimize the excitonic properties and solid-state morphologies of water-soluble perylene bisimide supramolecular polymers.
Threshold photoionization shows no sign of nitryl hydride in methane oxidation with nitric oxide
Authors: Hoener Martin , Bodi Andras , Hemberger Patrick , Endres Torsten , Kasper Tina
Published: December 2020

No nitryl hydride was detected in partial oxidation of nitric oxide doped methane, despite recent theoretical reaction rates suggesting otherwise.
Multiscale modelling investigation of wood modification with acetic anhydride
Authors: Ponnuchamy Veerapandian , Sandak Anna , Sandak Jakub
Published: December 2020

This combined DFT and MD simulations have provided significant insights for understanding the key interactions between cellobiose and lignin models with acetic anhydride in the wood modification process.
A charge transfer state induced by strong exciton coupling in a cofacial μ-oxo-bridged porphyrin heterodimer
Authors: Zarrabi Niloofar , Bayard Brandon J. , Seetharaman Sairaman , Holzer Noah , Karr Paul , Ciuti Susanna , Barbon Antonio , Di Valentin Marilena , van der Est Art , D’Souza Francis , Poddutoori Prashanth K.
Published: December 2020

Photodynamics of an aluminum(iii) porphyrin-phosphorous(v) porphyrin heterodimer reveals initial formation of a singlet CT state which relaxes to a high-energy triplet CT state lasting for about 105 μs.
Single-atom catalysts boost signal amplification for biosensing
Authors: Jiao Lei , Xu Weiqing , Wu Yu , Yan Hongye , Gu Wenling , Du Dan , Lin Yuehe , Zhu Chengzhou
Published: December 2020

This tutorial review highlights the signal amplification of single-atom catalysts in the colorimetric, electrochemical, chemiluminescence, electrochemiluminescence, and photoelectrochemical biosensing applications.
Unraveling the catalytically preferential pathway between the direct and indirect hydrogenation of CO2 to CH3OH using N-heterocyclic carbene-based Mn(i) catalysts: a theoretical approach
Authors: Das Amitabha , Mandal Shyama Charan , Pathak Biswarup
Published: December 2020

The mechanistic investigation of direct vs. indirect CO2 hydrogenation to methanol using single molecular NHC-based Mn(i) complexes.
Nonbenzenoid aromaticity of 1-phosphafulvenes: synthesis of phosphacymantrenes
Authors: Liu Yanjie , Tian Rongqiang , Duan Zheng , Mathey François
Published: December 2020

The nonbenzenoid aromaticity of 1-phosphafulvenes were revealed by the coordination with manganese carbonyls. The results highlight the analogy between phosphorus and carbon in low-coordinate organophosphorus chemistry.
Two-dimensional matrices confining metal single atoms with enhanced electrochemical reaction kinetics for energy storage applications
Authors: Wang Peng , Zhao Danyang , Yin Longwei
Published: December 2020

Cutting-edge applications involving the use of SAs@2D hybrids in various rechargeable batteries and related kinetics amelioration mechanisms are summarized in this review.
Laboratory protocols for measuring and reporting the performance of luminescent solar concentrators
Authors: Debije Michael G. , Evans Rachel C. , Griffini Gianmarco
Published: December 2020

Recommendation of standardised experiments for adoption by all researchers on luminescent solar concentrators to unify reporting and legitimise the field.
Improvement of the hepatic lipid status in intrauterine growth retarded pigs by resveratrol is related to the inhibition of mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and inflammation
Authors: Cheng Kang , Jia Peilu , Ji Shuli , Song Zhihua , Zhang Hao , Zhang Lili , Wang Tian
Published: December 2020

Mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and inflammation are crucial contributors to liver damage and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adulthood in offspring affected by intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR).
Causal relations among starch fine molecular structure, lamellar/crystalline structure and in vitro digestion kinetics of native rice starch
Authors: Li Cheng , Hu Yiming , Gu Fangting , Gong Bo
Published: December 2020

Causal relations among starch fine molecular structures, lamellar/crystalline structures, and the in vitro digestion kinetics of native rice starches.
Recent advances in visible-light-mediated organic transformations in water
Authors: Sun Kai , Lv Qi-Yan , Chen Xiao-Lan , Qu Ling-Bo , Yu Bing
Published: December 2020

Water is a green reaction medium, while visible light represents a renewable, clean, and abundant energy source. The recent advances in visible-light-mediated organic transformations in water are summarized.
Rapid biosynthesis of phenolic glycosides and their derivatives from biomass-derived hydroxycinnamates
Authors: Zhao Mingtao , Hong Xulin , Abdullah  , Yao Ruilian , Xiao Yi
Published: December 2020

Three novel enzyme cascades were engineered for the rapid biosynthesis of phenolic glycosides and their derivatives from biomass-derivedp-coumaric acid and ferulic acid.
Attenuation of doubly charged ion interferences on arsenic and selenium by ICP-MS under low kinetic energy collision cell conditions with hydrogen cell gas
Authors: Sugiyama Naoki
Published: December 2020

A collision cell with hydrogen gas in place of the widely used helium attenuates not only polyatomic ion interference but also doubly charged ion interference by using KED.
Unraveling the compositional heterogeneity and carrier dynamics of alkali cation doped 3D/2D perovskites with improved stability
Authors: Tang Ming-Chun , Zhang Siyuan , Magnanelli Timothy J. , Nguyen Nhan V. , Heilweil Edwin J. , Anthopoulos Thomas D. , Hacker Christina A.
Published: December 2020

A comprehensive analysis of the compositional heterogeneity and carrier dynamics in novel rubidium-doped 3D/2D perovskites is investigated, showing a PCE over 20% and improved stability at ≈50% relative humidity without encapsulation.
Nitrogen-doped carbon dots for sensitive detection of ferric ions and monohydrogen phosphate by the naked eye and imaging in living cells
Authors: Liu Qiaoling , Ren Borong , Xie Kaixin , Yan Yanmei , Liu Ruirong , Lv Shiyou , He Qing , Yang Boru , Li Lin
Published: December 2020

Nitrogen doped carbon dots (N-CDs) have been prepared via a one-pot hydrothermal method by using formamide and o-phenylenediamine as the carbon precursors for Fe3+ and HPO42− detection.
CdS decorated MnWO4 nanorod nanoheterostructures: a new 0D–1D hybrid system for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen production under natural sunlight
Authors: Sethi Yogesh A. , Kulkarni Aniruddha K. , Ambalkar Anuradha A. , Khore Supriya K. , Gunjal Aarti R. , Gosavi Suresh W. , Kale Bharat B.
Published: December 2020

Herein, we have demonstrated the CdS decorated MnWO4 nanorods nanoheterostructure by facile solvothermal method. The heterostructures have been used as photocatalyst for hydrogen production under solar light.
Facile one-pot synthesis of multifunctional protamine sulfate-derived carbon dots for antibacterial applications and fluorescence imaging of bacteria
Authors: Zhao Dan , Liu Xuemei , Zhang Rui , Huang Xianju , Xiao Xincai
Published: December 2020

PS-carbon dots (CDs) were prepared by a microwave-assisted method using protamine sulfate (PS), and they have dual functions of antibacterial and bacterial imaging.
Efficient energy transfer from Ce3+ to Tb3+ in BaF2: green-emitting phosphors for potential applications in the detection of Cu2+ ions
Authors: He Wenxiang , Du Hongli , Fu Juan , Luan Fangfei , Li Dewei , Sun Liyuan , Guo Dongcai
Published: December 2020

A succession of Ce3+ and Tb3+ co-doped BaF2 nanoparticles were synthesized by co-precipitation and hydrothermal methods.
Semi-synthesis as a tool for broadening the health applications of bioactive olive secoiridoids: a critical review
Authors: Oliverio Manuela , Nardi Monica , Di Gioia Maria Luisa , Costanzo Paola , Bonacci Sonia , Mancuso Stefano , Procopio Antonio
Published: December 2020

Semi-synthesis is an effective strategy to obtain both natural and synthetic analogues of the olive secoiridoids, starting from easy accessible natural compounds.
Photoresponse improvement of mixed-dimensional 1D–2D GaAs photodetectors by incorporating constructive interface states
Authors: Wang Dengkui , Chen Xue , Fang Xuan , Tang Jilong , Lin Fengyuan , Wang Xinwei , Liu Guanlin , Liao Lei , Ho Johnny C. , Wei Zhipeng
Published: December 2020

A mixed-dimensional photodetector was constructed to convert the harmful surface states of low-dimensional materials into their constructive interface states.
Highly dispersive Co3O4nanoparticles incorporated into a cellulose nanofiber for a high-performance flexible supercapacitor
Authors: Rabani Iqra , Yoo Jeseung , Kim Hyo-Sun , Lam Do Van , Hussain Sajjad , Karuppasamy K. , Seo Young-Soo
Published: December 2020

Transition metal oxides used as electrode materials for flexible supercapacitors have attracted huge attention due to their high specific capacitance and surface-to-volume ratio, specifically for cobalt oxide (Co3O4) nanoparticles.
A single microwire near-infrared exciton–polariton light-emitting diode
Authors: Jiang Mingming , Tang Kai , Wan Peng , Xu Tong , Xu Haiying , Kan Caixia
Published: December 2020

Exciton-polariton LED composed of a ZnO:Ga MW and p-GaAs template serving hole supplier is demonstrated, and its working characteristics in the near-infrared spectrum.
An enzyme-mediated universal fluorescent biosensor template for pathogen detection based on a three-dimensional DNA walker and catalyzed hairpin assembly
Authors: Li Dan , Yang Enlai , Luo Zewei , Xie Qiyue , Duan Yixiang
Published: December 2020

An enzyme-mediated universal fluorescent biosensor template for rapid detection of pathogens was developed based on the strategy of a three-dimensional (3D) DNA walker and catalyzed hairpin assembly (CHA) reaction.
Optimization of flash extraction, separation of ginsenosides, identification by HPLC-FT-ICR-MS and determination of rare ginsenosides in mountain cultivated ginseng
Authors: Xu Lei , Xu Jing , Shi Guohui , Xiao Shengnan , Dai Rongke , Wu Shao , Sun Baoshan , Zhang Xiaoshu , Zhao Yuqing
Published: December 2020

23 ginsenosides, including rare ginsenosides, were separated from MCG by flash extraction technique. Through quantitative analysis, we found that the content of rare ginsenosides in MCG was higher than that in CG.
Influence of the physicochemical features of TiO2 nanoparticles on the formation of a protein corona and impact on cytotoxicity
Authors: Kose Ozge , Stalet Marion , Leclerc Lara , Forest Valérie
Published: December 2020

Characterization of the formation of the protein corona of TiO2 nanoparticles as a function of the main nanoparticle properties and investigation of potential relationship with the cytotoxicity nanoparticles induce in vitro in human lung cells.
Construction of magnetic MgFe2O4/CdS/MoS2 ternary nanocomposite supported on NaY zeolite and highly efficient sonocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants
Authors: Sadeghi Meysam , Farhadi Saeed , Zabardasti Abedin
Published: December 2020

A magnetically separable NaY zeolite/MgFe2O4/CdS NRs/MoS2 NFs nanocomposite was successfully manufactured and utilized as a new sonocatalyst for the effective degradation of toxic organic dyes.
Correction: Three-dimensional directional nerve guide conduits fabricated by dopamine-functionalized conductive carbon nanofibre-based nanocomposite ink printing
Authors: Houshyar Shadi , Pillai Mamatha M. , Saha Tanushree , Sathish-Kumar G. , Dekiwadia Chaitali , Sarker Satya Ranjan , Sivasubramanian R. , Shanks Robert A. , Bhattacharyya Amitava
Published: December 2020

Correction for ’Three-dimensional directional nerve guide conduits fabricated by dopamine-functionalized conductive carbon nanofibre-based nanocomposite ink printing’ by Shadi Houshyar et al., RSC Adv., 2020, 10, 40351–40364, DOI: 10.1039/D0RA06556K.
Multi-scale approach for the prediction of atomic scale properties
Authors: Grisafi Andrea , Nigam Jigyasa , Ceriotti Michele
Published: December 2020

Multi-scale equivariant representations overcome the nearsightedness of local machine-learning approaches.
Wetting of a liquid annulus in a capillary tube
Authors: Lv Cunjing , Hardt Steffen
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we systematically investigate the static wetting behavior of a liquid ring in a cylindrical capillary tube.
Tunable functionalization of nano-emulsions using amphiphilic polymers
Authors: Rehman Asad Ur , Anton Nicolas , Bou Sophie , Schild Jérémy , Messaddeq Nadia , Vandamme Thierry , Akram Salman , Klymchenko Andrey , Collot Mayeul
Published: December 2020

Nano-emulsion surface functionalization with amphiphilic polymer.
A full transparent high-performance flexible phototransistor with an ultra-short channel length
Authors: Zhou Yilun , Chen Jinwei , Yu Rengjian , Li Enlong , Yan Yujie , Huang Jinsong , Wu Shengyuan , Chen Huipeng , Guo Tailiang
Published: December 2020

Ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors (PDs), which can convert ultraviolet light into electrical signals for dynamic monitoring, have attracted tremendous attention to protect humans from diseases induced by harmful light radiations.
Calcitriol increases frataxin levels and restores mitochondrial function in cell models of Friedreich Ataxia
Authors: Britti Elena , Delaspre Fabien , Sanz-Alcázar A. , Medina-Carbonero Marta , Llovera Marta , Purroy Rosa , Mincheva-Tasheva Stefka , Tamarit Jordi , Ros Joaquim
Published: December 2020

Friedreich ataxia (FA) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by the deficiency of frataxin, a mitochondrial protein. In primary cultures of dorsal root ganglia neurons, we showed that frataxin depletion resulted in decreased levels of the mitochondrial calcium exchanger NCLX, neurite degeneration and apoptotic cell death. Here, we describe that frataxin-deficient dorsal root ganglia neurons display low levels of ferredoxin 1 (FDX1), a mitochondrial Fe/S cluster-containing protein that interacts with frataxin and, interestingly, is essential for the synthesis of calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D. We provide data that calcitriol supplementation, used at nanomolar concentrations, is able to reverse the molecular and cellular markers altered in DRG neurons. Calcitriol is able to recover both FDX1 and NCLX levels and restores mitochondrial membrane potential indicating an overall mitochondrial function improvement. Accordingly, reduction in apoptotic markers and neurite degeneration was observed and, as a result, cell survival was also recovered. All these beneficial effects would be explained by the finding that calcitriol is able to increase the mature frataxin levels in both, frataxin-deficient DRG neurons and cardiomyocytes; remarkably, this increase also occurs in lymphoblastoid cell lines derived from FA patients. In conclusion, these results provide molecular bases to consider calcitriol for an easy and affordable therapeutic approach for FA patients.
Reference values and the effect of clinical parameters on thyroid hormone levels during early pregnancy
Authors: Lin Huijia , Ye Mudan , Zhou Zhenwen , Yuan Lianxiong , Lash Gendie E. , Zhang Guanglan , Li Li
Published: December 2020

Objective: Thyroid dysfunction is a common endocrine problem during pregnancy; correct diagnosis and appropriate treatments are essential to avoid adverse pregnancy outcomes. Besides, it is vital to identify and quantify the major risk factors for gestational thyroid dysfunction, including thyroid autoimmunity, human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) concentration, body mass index (BMI) and parity. The study objective was to establish reference ranges during early pregnancy and to explore the relationship between risk factors and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4) and free triiodothyroxine (FT3).

Design, patients and measurements: To establish the reference ranges of thyroid hormone during early pregnancy in China and to identify the risk factors for thyroid dysfunction, woman in the first trimester of pregnancy (4–12 weeks gestation) were recruited. After excluding thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO-Ab) positive and/or thyroglobulin antibody (TG-Ab) positive women, previous thyroid disease, a lack of iodine intake, reference values were calculated by 2.5th to 97.5th percentiles.

Results: After exclusion of TPO-Ab and/or TG-Ab positive women, reference values were as follows: TSH, 0.11–3.67 mIU/l; FT3, 3.19–5.91 pmol/l; FT4 10.95–16.79 pmol/l. Higher BMI was associated with lower FT4 concentrations (P=0.005). In multiple regression analysis, TSH was significantly and positively associated with TG (P=0.03). Maternal parity and maternal age may be risk factors for the abnormal thyroidal response to hCG concentrations.

Conclusions: Our study defined first trimester-specific reference ranges for serum TSH, FT4, FT3 in a Chinese population, and demonstrated that BMI ≥23kg/m2, maternal parity ≥3 and maternal age ≥30 years may increase the risk of thyroid dysfunction.
Structural assessment of SARS-CoV2 accessory protein ORF7a predicts LFA-1 and Mac-1 binding potential
Authors: Nizamudeen Zubair Ahmed , Xu Emma-Ruoqi , Karthik Vivin , Halawa Mohamed , Arkill Kenton P. , Jackson Andrew M. , Bates David O. , Emsley Jonas
Published: December 2020

ORF7a is an accessory protein common to SARS-CoV1 and the recently discovered SARS-CoV2, which is causing the COVID-19 pandemic. The ORF7a protein has a structural homology with ICAM-1 which binds to the T lymphocyte integrin receptor LFA-1. As COVID-19 has a strong immune component as part of the disease, we sought to determine whether SARS-CoV2 would have a similar structural interaction with LFA-1. Using molecular docking simulations, we found that SARS-CoV2 ORF7a has the key structural determinants required to bind LFA-1 but also the related leukocyte integrin Mac-1, which is also known to be expressed by macrophages. Our study shows that SARS-CoV2 ORF7a protein has a conserved Ig immunoglobulin-like fold containing an integrin binding site that provides a mechanistic hypothesis for SARS-CoV2’s interaction with the human immune system. This suggests that experimental investigation of ORF7a-mediated effects on immune cells such as T lymphocytes and macrophages (leukocytes) could help understand the disease further and develop effective treatments.
ACE2, a multifunctional protein – from cardiovascular regulation to COVID-19
Authors: Bader Michael , Turner Anthony J. , Alenina Natalia
Published: December 2020

This Editorial, written by Guest Editors Professor Michael Bader, Professor Anthony J. Turner and Dr Natalia Alenina, proudly introduces the Clinical Science-themed collection on angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a multifunctional protein – from cardiovascular regulation to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
The Impact of COVID-19 on Speakers With Aphasia: What Is Currently Known and Missing?
Authors: Kong Anthony Pak-Hin
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Enhancing social participation and reducing emotional distress in persons with aphasia (PWA) are a critical rehabilitation goal. Social relationships and meaningful activities performed by PWA are also crucial to promote positive psychosocial well-being. As a precautionary measure specific to the COVID-19 pandemic, most PWA worldwide have generally followed the guidelines of going out less, restricting when and where to gather with friends and peers, reducing social activities, and maintaining appropriate social distance; these acts are contrary to the traditional principles of managing aphasia. This article aims to (a) highlight and add to our understanding of issues related to the impact of the currently evolving COVID-19 pandemic on PWA, (b) direct readers to relevant reports in the literature of telerehabilitation for aphasia to look for useful information regarding remote assessment and therapy to be considered during the pandemic, (c) summarize support initiatives developed and resources compiled thus far as well as provide links for caregivers and PWA to find more information about COVID-19 in their communities, and (d) offer recommendations to potentially move the field of aphasia research and clinical PWA services forward in a positive way to endure the pandemic and in the forthcoming post-COVID world.

Conclusions

At present, there are significant knowledge gaps regarding the short and long-term impacts of COVID-19 on PWA and their caregivers. It is crucial that different stakeholders be sensitive and flexible when addressing the psychosocial and rehabilitation needs of PWA to mitigate the negative effects during and after the COVID-19 era.
Speech-Language Pathologists' Perceptions of Their Preparation and Confidence for Providing Dysphagia Services
Authors: Caesar Lena G. , Kitila Merertu
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) regarding their academic preparation and current confidence levels for providing dysphagia services, and the relationship between their perceptions of graduate school preparation and their current levels of confidence.

Method

This study utilized an online survey to gather information from 374 American Speech-Language-Hearing Association–certified SLPs who currently provide dysphagia services in the United States. Surveys were primarily distributed through American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Special Interest Group forums and Facebook groups. The anonymous survey gathered information regarding SLPs' perceptions of academic preparation and current confidence levels for providing dysphagia services in 11 knowledge and skill areas.

Results

Findings indicated that more than half of respondents did not feel prepared following their graduate academic training in five of the 11 knowledge and skill areas related to dysphagia service delivery. However, about half of respondents indicated they were currently confident about their ability to provide services in eight of the 11 knowledge and skill areas. Findings also indicated that their current confidence levels to provide dysphagia services were significantly higher than their perceptions of preparation immediately following graduate school. However, no significant relationships were found between respondents' self-reported current confidence levels and their perceptions of the adequacy of their academic preparation.

Conclusions

Despite SLPs' low perceptions of the adequacy of their graduate preparation for providing dysphagia services in specific knowledge and skill areas immediately following graduation, they reported high confidence levels with respect to their actual service delivery. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Study on performance of AQM schemes over TCP variants in different network environments
Authors: Muhammad Salman , Chaudhery Touseef Javed , Noh Youngtae
Published: December 2020

Increasing the size of memory in network devices leads to the problem of a persistently full buffer (a.k.a, bufferbloat). The objective of this study is to compare the recently introduced Controlled Delay (CoDel) scheme with the traditional method of active queue management, such as Random Early Detection (RED) algorithms over TCP variants. To explore the potential of CoDel over RED, TCP variants have been assessed at three settings: variable congestion and fixed payload (VCFP), variable payload and fixed congestion (VPFC), and high congestion and high payload (HCHP). We assessed the CoDel and RED schemes for active queue management (AQM) using three performance metrics: link utilization, drop rate, and queuing delay. The analytical results show that CoDel outperformed RED in most aspects over variants of TCP because of its auto‐tuning and auto‐adjustment features. However, RED outperformed CoDel in a few cases. In the VCFP setting, RED recorded a lower drop rate overall TCP variants. Moreover, in the VPFC setting, RED with a payload of 500–1000 bytes performed better in terms of drop rate. Finally, in the HPHC setting, there were two cases where RED, over TCP NewReno and Vegas, performed well in terms of drop rate.
Extra‐sensitive impedance differential protection immune to CT saturation
Authors: Tong Ning , Lin Xiangning , Zhang Rui , Zhuo Yixin , Jin Neng , Li Zhengtian , Xiong Zhiwu
Published: December 2020

For extra‐high voltage transmission lines configured with a communication channel, the current differential protection is facing a dilemma between sensitivity and security. On the one hand, the resistive coverage will not be sufficiently high if security is guaranteed. Although the sequence‐current‐based differential elements are more sensitive, it may cause a longer time delay and deteriorate sensitivity under the open‐phase operating condition. On the other hand, if high sensitivity is guaranteed at the cost of security, the main protection element will be blocked in the current transformer (CT) saturation scenario. To solve this problem, a novel type of impedance differential protection (IDP) is proposed. Under the open‐phase condition awaiting an automatic reclosing, the proposed IDP can assist in accelerating the speed of fault‐clearance for healthy phases, which is faster and more sensitive than using the zero‐sequence current differential protection. For an external fault with heavy CT saturation, the proposed IDP can take over the fault identification capability before the recovery of CT, in which duration the current differential protection is blocked. Simulation results indicate that the proposed IDP coordinate perfectly with the current differential protection in the above two scenarios. The performance of the proposed IDP is also assessed using field data.
Research on fault section location method of distribution networks with arc suppression coil grounding based on energy leakage function
Authors: Fang Jian , Yan Yingjie , Zhang Hang , Wang Hongbing , Wang Yong
Published: December 2020

In distribution networks with arc suppression coil grounding, the fault line can be set as the energy leakage channel of the capacitive current of the entire system. During the period from fault occurrence to the whole action process of arc suppression coil, there is abundant fault information in the transient waves. However, the data of this period are usually ignored in previous methods. In this study, a novel fault section location method based on the leakage energy function is proposed. Only the fault phase voltage and fault phase current are used in the proposed method, to avoid the difficulty of the zero‐sequence current measurement. Then, the action characteristics of two types of arc suppression devices are analysed. The influence of the capacitor current on the fault phase voltage and current during the entire process of arc suppression coil operation is deduced. The difference between the leakage energy on both sides of the fault section is used as the criterion for fault section location. Finally, the effectiveness of the method is verified by a case study. The simulation results indicate that the proposed method has high sensitivity and high impedance adaptability, that will have more advantages in the actual situations.
Improvement of transient response in grid‐tied photovoltaic systems using virtual inertia
Authors: Kumar Dhivya Sampath , Lau Preston , Sharma Anurag , Khambadkone Ashwin , Srinivasan Dipti
Published: December 2020

Photovoltaic (PV) generation systems, unlike conventional generators, do not possess any inherent inertia. The problem is further amplified by the fact that they are non‐dispatchable and highly intermittent by nature. Furthermore, the rate at which PV power output changes is of a much shorter timescale than that of conventional generators. Thus, integrating them in large quantities to the power grid without appropriate measures will compromise the power grid stability. One of the feasible solutions is to implement the concept of virtual inertia to PV systems, by adding energy storage systems (ESS) such as batteries in parallel with PV systems. In this paper, the ESS will be controlled to regulate the ramp rate (RR) of the PV power output to the grid, which smoothens the overall generation power profile. By modelling the grid, PV, ESS and load individually in the s‐domain and using an equivalent overall two‐machine, two‐area model, the impact of implementing virtual inertia is demonstrated. The results highlight the effectiveness in using ESS to control the RR and improving the transient responses of the overall grid system. Moreover, the economic impact and feasibility of ESS are also analysed using a residential PV and load profile from Singapore.
Analysis of Credit Score in China’s E-commerce Market
Authors: Liu Xinyu
Published: December 2020

Ecommerce has become the mainstream all around the world. In China, multiple platforms occupy the market of ecommerce. These platforms have different strategies and focus on unalike customers. Most of them use personal credit score as a measurement to reduce the risk of fraud transactions, especially in some second-hand goods platforms. In this paper, the author uses survey to analyze the potential relationship between credit score and frauds, from both the consumer and seller’s sides. Then the author discusses some possible improvements which could be made to adjust the current using credit system used in the online platforms.
Research on online marketing channel layout of luxury brands
Authors: Wang Shan , Fang Gang
Published: December 2020

Based on the background that international luxury brands have entered the Chinese market in recent years and have carried out digital operation, this paper researches the channel layout of online marketing of luxury brands in China. And this paper analyzes the domestic market environment of luxury brands from four aspects of political factors, economic factors, social factors and technical factors, and analyzes the brands marketing layout from three aspects of new media channels, e-commerce channels and social retail channels. It is found that online marketing has a positive effect on brand management in the China’s market environment. Moreover, the boundaries among new media channels, e-commerce channels and social retail channels tend to be blurred. Each channel has its own advantages, and brands need to match their own positioning with channel economy.
The Influence of Social Media on Buy Decision-making of Young Chinese Consumers
Authors: Qi Xiao-lie
Published: December 2020

Social media is playing an increasingly important role in our daily lives. Young Chinese consumers are the primary users of social media in China. Social media is the primary source of information for young Chinese customers, influencing their buying decisions. Through the research obtained three main results: Young Chinese consumers use social media for information. Social media messages are their primary source of information. Social media information influences buy decisions making of young Chinese consumers. Number of negative information on social media moderates the relationships between trust in information of social media and intention to buy
HAPPINESS SCORE IDENTIFICATION: A REGRESSION APPROACH
Authors: Ma Yichen , Liu Andrew , Hu Xukai , Shao Yuchen
Published: December 2020

Happiness plays an important role in human emotion and one’s growth. In this paper, we use the data from the World Happiness Report, Countries of the World, and Countries Dataset 2020 to discern the relationship the happiness score has with the economy, family, health, freedom, trust, perception of corruption, generosity, and residual. In our research, we used the regression approach to find the most important factors that affect the happiness score in the past five years. Since we observed a positive and moderate relationship between the residual and happiness score, we then looked for other factors that contribute to the residual, the unexplained factor. Finally, we verified the main factors to the happiness score.
Discussion on Big Data Application in Finance
Authors: Ma Liyun
Published: December 2020

With the continuous development of the Internet, big data have been reflected in various industries. In the field of finance, using big data can promote the stable development of the financial field and control the unstable factors within a reasonable range. This paper first understands the content of big data, then explains the challenges faced by the application of big data in the financial field, and finally understands the strategy of big data application in the financial field, which provides a reference for the research of relevant personnel.
Research on personalized recommendation system to improve overall diversity
Authors: Liu Liyan
Published: December 2020

The recent research on the impact of information technology on consumers’ purchasing behavior shows that the purchasing power of consumers who buy more diversified products is stronger than that of consumers who buy single types of goods. Improving the overall diversity of recommendation results can make more products appear in the user’s recommendation list.
Accuracy Check and Comparative Analysis of Horizontal Fiber-Optic Gyro Inclinometer in Freezing Hole
Authors: Jiang Guojing , Li Fangzheng , Zhou Xiaomin , Gao Wei , Cui Bingbing
Published: December 2020

Based on the principle of fiber-optic gyro inclinometer, the characteristics of horizontal freezing hole and the working conditions, it is analyzed that the horizontal hole fiber-optic gyroscope tilting technology for freezing holes is one of the most reliable methods. In order to verify the azimuth measurement error of the horizontal fiber optic-gyro inclinometer, the simulation test under the 1:1 working condition was carried out with the actual working conditions on site. Compared with the total station measurement data, it was concluded that 85.2% of the data is in measurement error within ±2°, 55.6% of the data is within ±1°, which verifies the reliability of the measurement data of the horizontal fiber-optic gyro inclinometer. At the test level of α=0.05, the azimuth test error accords with the normal distribution of μ=0.54 and σ=0.73. In the actual use process, the algorithm can be used to optimize the measurement data by taking multiple measurements and taking the average value in combination with the field conditions, so that the data can be closer to the true value.
Study on Influencing Factors of Adsorption of Methylene Blue on Magnetic Graphene Oxide Composite
Authors: Li Yafeng , Li Jiacheng , Zhao Binxin
Published: December 2020

In order to explore the optimal reaction conditions of magnetic graphene oxide composite materials for the treatment of methylene blue wastewater. By controlling the pH value, contact time, temperature, the amount of adsorbent added for comparative analysis, and finally determine the best operating conditions. The study showed that when the pH value was 7, the contact time was 1440 min, the reaction temperature was 25 ° C, and the dosage of the adsorbent was 0.5 g / L, the treatment effect was the best. Parameter optimization can effectively improve the processing effect.
Analysis on Current Situation and Forecast of Chinese Online Education Industry
Authors: Huang Huawei
Published: December 2020

Affected by the epidemic of the COVID-19, classroom teaching has been suspended and demand of online education is increasing, which has a far-reaching impact on educational industry. The competition of online education companies is becoming fiercer. It is necessary to discuss the feasibility of online education and a future development. Therefore, finding potential of online education and analyzing encounter problems is the main purposes. Aiming at middle school students, this article uses questionnaire survey and statistic to summarize the current status of online education in China from three aspects: geographical distribution of usage, the hours and pricing issues of online education companies, consumer intentions and consumer concerns. The gray model will be applied to predict the development potential of online education and provide effective suggestions to the education community. The selected institutions are mainly educational institutions of well-known domestic brands.
Research on Internet Information Security in the Big Data Era
Authors: Shen Yang
Published: December 2020

In the era of big data, due to the great influence of big data itself, Internet information security has also become the focus of attention. In order to avoid disturbing people’s lives, this article summarizes the opportunities and challenges in the era of big data based on previous work experience. This article analyzes and studies five aspects including establishing complete laws and regulations, protecting personal information, applying big data technology to public security systems, doing a good job in data management and classification, and ensuring the security of data transmission. The author discusses specific measures for the maintenance of Internet information security in the era of big data from the above five aspects.