bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term water conservation is fostered by smart meter-based feedback and digital user engagement
Authors: Cominola Andrea , Giuliani Matteo , Castelletti Andrea , Fraternali Piero , Gonzalez Sergio Luis Herrera , Herrero Joan Carles Guardiola , Novak Jasminko , Rizzoli Andrea Emilio
Published: May 2021

Consumption-based feedback has been demonstrated to encourage water conservation behaviors. Smart meters and digital solutions can support customized feedback and reinforce behavioral change. Yet, most of the studies documenting water conservation effects induced by feedback and smart meter data visualization evaluate them in short-term experimental trials only. Here we show that water conservation behaviors promoted by smart meter-based consumption feedback and digital user engagement interventions might persist in the long term. We developed an analysis of 334 households in Valencia, Spain. We find that approximately 47% of the households engaged in our water conservation program achieved a long-term 8% reduction of volumetric water consumption, compared with pre-treatment observations. Water conservation behaviors persisted more than two years after the beginning of the program, especially for the households receiving sub-daily smart meter information. Our results provide empirical evidence that smart meter-based water consumption feedback and digital user engagement can effectively promote durable conservation behaviors.
Comparison of the Hi-C, GAM and SPRITE methods using polymer models of chromatin
Authors: Fiorillo Luca , Musella Francesco , Conte Mattia , Kempfer Rieke , Chiariello Andrea M. , Bianco Simona , Kukalev Alexander , Irastorza-Azcarate Ibai , Esposito Andrea , Abraham Alex , Prisco Antonella , Pombo Ana , Nicodemi Mario
Published: May 2021

Hi-C, split-pool recognition of interactions by tag extension (SPRITE) and genome architecture mapping (GAM) are powerful technologies utilized to probe chromatin interactions genome wide, but how faithfully they capture three-dimensional (3D) contacts and how they perform relative to each other is unclear, as no benchmark exists. Here, we compare these methods in silico in a simplified, yet controlled, framework against known 3D structures of polymer models of murine and human loci, which can recapitulate Hi-C, GAM and SPRITE experiments and multiplexed fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) single-molecule conformations. We find that in silico Hi-C, GAM and SPRITE bulk data are faithful to the reference 3D structures whereas single-cell data reflect strong variability among single molecules. The minimal number of cells required in replicate experiments to return statistically similar contacts is different across the technologies, being lowest in SPRITE and highest in GAM under the same conditions. Noise-to-signal levels follow an inverse power law with detection efficiency and grow with genomic distance differently among the three methods, being lowest in GAM for genomic separations >1 Mb.
A multilevel carbon and water footprint dataset of food commodities
Authors: Petersson Tashina , Secondi Luca , Magnani Andrea , Antonelli Marta , Dembska Katarzyna , Valentini Riccardo , Varotto Alessandra , Castaldi Simona
Published: May 2021

Informing and engaging citizens to adopt sustainable diets is a key strategy for reducing global environmental impacts of the agricultural and food sectors. In this respect, the first requisite to support citizens and actors of the food sector is to provide them a publicly available, reliable and ready to use synthesis of environmental pressures associated to food commodities. Here we introduce the SU-EATABLE LIFE database, a multilevel database of carbon (CF) and water (WF) footprint values of food commodities, based on a standardized methodology to extract information and assign optimal footprint values and uncertainties to food items, starting from peer-reviewed articles and grey literature. The database and its innovative methodological framework for uncertainty treatment and data quality assurance provides a solid basis for evaluating the impact of dietary shifts on global environmental policies, including climate mitigation through greenhouse gas emission reductions. The database ensures repeatability and further expansion, providing a reliable science-based tool for managers and researcher in the food sector.
Bioprocess development for enhanced endoglucanase production by newly isolated bacteria, purification, characterization and in-vitro efficacy as anti-biofilm of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Ibrahim Atef M. , Hamouda Ragaa A. , El-Naggar Noura El-Ahmady , Al-Shakankery Fatma M.
Published: May 2021

Endoglucanase producing bacteria were isolated from Egyptian soils and the most active bacterial strain was identified as Bacillus subtilis strain Fatma/1. Plackett–Burman statistical design was carried out to assess the effect of seven process variables on endoglucanase production. Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), yeast extract and peptone were the most significant variables that enhanced the endoglucanase production and thus were selected for further optimization using face-centered central composite design. The highest yield of endoglucanase (32.37 U/mL) was obtained in run no. 9, using 18 g/L CMC, 8 g/L peptone, 7 g/L yeast extract and 0.1 g/L FeSO4.7H2O. The optimized medium showed about eightfold increase in endoglucanase production compared to the unoptimized medium. The produced crude enzyme was further purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation, then DEAE-Sepharose CL6B column. The purified enzyme was shown to have a molecular weight of 37 kDa. The enzyme showed maximum activity at pH 8.0, temperature of 50 °C, incubation time of 60 min. The half-life time (T1/2) was 139.53 min at 50 °C, while being 82.67 min at 60 °C. Endoglucanase at concentration of 12 U/mL effectively removed 84.61% of biofilm matrix of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with marked reduction in carbohydrate content of the biofilm from 63.4 to 7.9 μg.
A morphometric approach to track opium poppy domestication
Authors: Jesus Ana , Bonhomme Vincent , Evin Allowen , Ivorra Sarah , Soteras Raül , Salavert Aurélie , Antolín Ferran , Bouby Laurent
Published: May 2021

Opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L. subsp. somniferum) was likely domesticated in the Western Mediterranean, where its putative wild ancestor is indigenous, and then spread to central and northern Europe. While opium poppy seeds are regularly identified in archaeobotanical studies, the absence of morphological criteria to distinguish the seeds of wild and domestic forms prevents the documentation of their respective historical and geographical occurrences and of the process of opium domestication as a whole. To fill this gap and better understand the status of this crop in the Neolithic, we combined seed outline analyses, namely elliptic Fourier transforms, with other morphometric descriptors to describe and identify Papaver setigerum, Papaver somniferum and other Papaver taxa. The combination of all measured parameters gives the most precise predictions for the identification of all seven taxa. We finally provide a case study on a Neolithic assemblage from a pile-dwelling site in Switzerland (Zurich-Parkhaus Opéra, ca. 3170 BC). Our results indicate the presence of mixed populations of domestic and wild seeds belonging to the P. somniferum group, suggesting that the plant was already in the process of domestication at the end of 4th millennium BC. Altogether, these results pave the way to understand the geography and history of the poppy domestication and its spread into Europe.
Mechanical biofilm disruption causes microbial and immunological shifts in periodontitis patients
Authors: Johnston W. , Rosier B. T. , Artacho A. , Paterson M. , Piela K. , Delaney C. , Brown J. L. , Ramage G. , Mira A. , Culshaw S.
Published: May 2021

Periodontitis is characterized by subgingival biofilm dysbiosis, inflammation and tissue destruction. Current treatment involves mechanical biofilm disruption known as non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT). This study sought to characterise the impact of treatment on microbial diversity and overall community, and the parallel impact on host inflammation in the oral cavity. Fourty-two periodontitis patients were included in this study, with periodontal clinical parameters, subgingival plaque and saliva samples collected at baseline and 90 days after treatment. Salivary cytokines were quantified, and subgingival plaque was analysed using 16S rRNA sequencing. After treatment, there were marked health-associated alterations in microbial composition and diversity, including differential abundance of 42 genera and 61 species. These changes were accompanied by substantial clinical improvement (pockets ≥ 5 mm, 27.50% to 9.00%,p < 0.001) and a decrease in salivary IL-1β (p < 0.001)—a putative marker of periodontal inflammation. Despite significant reductions in disease associated anaerobes, several genera (Fusobacterium, Prevotella, Tanenerella, Treponema) remained present and formed a distinct subnetwork associated with residual disease. Collectively, this study shows that current periodontal treatment results in partial restoration of a healthy microbial ecosystem, but features of biofilm dysbiosis and host inflammation remain in some patients, which were surprisingly independent of clinical response.
Skeletal muscle metabolic responses to physical activity are muscle type specific in a rat model of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Avin Keith G. , Hughes Meghan C. , Chen Neal X. , Srinivasan Shruthi , O’Neill Kalisha D. , Evan Andrew P. , Bacallao Robert L. , Schulte Michael L. , Moorthi Ranjani N. , Gisch Debora L. , Perry Christopher G. R. , Moe Sharon M. , O’Connell Thomas M.
Published: May 2021

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) leads to musculoskeletal impairments that are impacted by muscle metabolism. We tested the hypothesis that 10-weeks of voluntary wheel running can improve skeletal muscle mitochondria activity and function in a rat model of CKD. Groups included (n = 12–14/group): (1) normal littermates (NL); (2) CKD, and; (3) CKD-10 weeks of voluntary wheel running (CKD-W). At 35-weeks old the following assays were performed in the soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL): targeted metabolomics, mitochondrial respiration, and protein expression. Amino acid-related compounds were reduced in CKD muscle and not restored by physical activity. Mitochondrial respiration in the CKD soleus was increased compared to NL, but not impacted by physical activity. The EDL respiration was not different between NL and CKD, but increased in CKD-wheel rats compared to CKD and NL groups. Our results demonstrate that the soleus may be more susceptible to CKD-induced changes of mitochondrial complex content and respiration, while in the EDL, these alterations were in response the physiological load induced by mild physical activity. Future studies should focus on therapies to improve mitochondrial function in both types of muscle to determine if such treatments can improve the ability to adapt to physical activity in CKD.
Effects of methane ratio on MPDF (micro-pilot dual-fuel) combustion characteristic in a heavy-duty single cylinder engine
Authors: Choi Minhoo , Mohiuddin Khawar , Park Sungwook
Published: May 2021

In this study, the characteristics of micro-pilot dual-fuel combustion with respect to the fuel mixture ratio in a single cylinder dual-fuel engine have been investigated. In order to analyze the characteristics of micro-pilot dual-fuel combustion, a metal engine and an optical single cylinder dual-fuel engine were used. The fuel mixture ratio was varied for experimental purposes; the diesel was directly injected into combustion chamber and the methane gas was supplied via intake port. The present study reports that increasing the methane mixture ratio from 0 to 97.67% changes the diesel combustion to pre-mixed combustion. As a result, the peak cylinder pressure was increased from 184 to 198 bar, and the rate of heat release was greatly advanced. In the MPDF condition, the nitrogen oxides emissions were reduced by about 90%p, and the fuel conversion efficiency increased about 5%p because of the low combustion temperature of pre-mixed combustion. However, for the same reason, the hydrocarbon emissions were increased about 95%p. The fastest combustion speed was found form the results of methane mixture ratio between 40 and 80%. In the condition of diesel combustion and micro-pilot dual-fuel combustion, the combustion periods of middle and initial were increased, respectively, resulting in the low combustion speed. The standard deviation of peak cylinder pressure, which represents the combustion variation, was correlated with initial combustion period. While the condition of methane gas mixture ratio between 40 and 80% shows the lowest combustion variation, the highest combustion variation was occurred by MPDF condition. Through the optical engine experiment, it can be found that the cycle to cycle combustion variation is ascribed to the turbulent flow and the variation of ignition position. The combustion images show that the unpredictable characteristics of the ignition position and slow flame propagation speed caused the combustion variation in micro-pilot dual-fuel combustion.
The gut microbiome is associated with brain structure and function in schizophrenia
Authors: Li Shijia , Song Jie , Ke Pengfei , Kong Lingyin , Lei Bingye , Zhou Jing , Huang Yuanyuan , Li Hehua , Li Guixiang , Chen Jun , Li Xiaobo , Xiang Zhiming , Ning Yuping , Wu Fengchun , Wu Kai
Published: May 2021

The effect of the gut microbiome on the central nervous system and its possible role in mental disorders have received increasing attention. However, knowledge about the relationship between the gut microbiome and brain structure and function is still very limited. Here, we used 16S rRNA sequencing with structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) and resting-state functional (rs-fMRI) to investigate differences in fecal microbiota between 38 patients with schizophrenia (SZ) and 38 demographically matched normal controls (NCs) and explored whether such differences were associated with brain structure and function. At the genus level, we found that the relative abundance of Ruminococcus and Roseburia was significantly lower, whereas the abundance of Veillonella was significantly higher in SZ patients than in NCs. Additionally, the analysis of MRI data revealed that several brain regions showed significantly lower gray matter volume (GMV) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) but significantly higher amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation in SZ patients than in NCs. Moreover, the alpha diversity of the gut microbiota showed a strong linear relationship with the values of both GMV and ReHo. In SZ patients, the ReHo indexes in the right STC (r = − 0.35, p = 0.031, FDR corrected p = 0.039), the left cuneus (r = − 0.33, p = 0.044, FDR corrected p = 0.053) and the right MTC (r = − 0.34, p = 0.03, FDR corrected p = 0.052) were negatively correlated with the abundance of the genus Roseburia. Our results suggest that the potential role of the gut microbiome in SZ is related to alterations in brain structure and function. This study provides insights into the underlying neuropathology of SZ.
Exploration of changes in spatial chondrocyte organisation in human osteoarthritic cartilage by means of 3D imaging
Authors: Danalache Marina , Beutler Kevin Ralf , Rolauffs Bernd , Wolfgart Julius Michael , Bonnaire Florian Christof , Fischer Stefan , Greving Imke , Hofmann Ulf Krister
Published: May 2021

Using two-dimensional top-down view microscopy, researchers have recently described chondrocytes as being spatially arranged in distinct patterns such as strings, double strings, and small and large clusters. Because of the seeming association of these changes with tissue degeneration, they have been proposed as an image-based biomarker for early osteoarthritis (OA) staging. The aim of our study was to investigate the spatial arrangement of chondrocytes in human articular cartilage in a 3D fashion and to evaluate the 3D changes of these patterns in the context of local tissue destruction. Decalcified femoral condyle resections from the load-bearing area were analysed in 3D for their spatial chondrocyte organisation by means of fluorescence microscopy and synchrotron-radiation micro-computed tomography (SR-µCT). In intact cartilage chondrocyte strings can be found in the superficial, transitional and deep zones. The proposed pattern changes accompanying tissue destruction could be located not just along the surface but also through all layers of cartilage. Each spatial pattern was characterised by a different cellular density (the only exception being between single and double strings with p = 0.062), with cellular density significantly increasing alongside the increase in local tissue degeneration as defined by the chondrocyte patterns. We can thus corroborate that the proposed cellular spatial changes are a three-dimensional function of local tissue degeneration, underlining their relevance as an image-based biomarker for the early diagnosis and description of OA.

Clinical trial registration number: Project number of the ethics committee of the University of Tübingen:171/2014BO2.
Production of Carbon Nanostructure/Graphene Oxide Composites by Self-assembly and Their Applications
Authors: Ortega-Amaya R. , Pérez-Guzmán M. A. , Ortega-López M.
Published: May 2021

Carbon-based nanostructures and nanocomposites include a wide range of technological useful materials for applications ranging from advanced electronic to environment pollution remediation. Among them, graphene-derived nanostructures such as fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, graphene, graphene oxide (GO), and reduced-graphene oxide (rGO) are of current interest. These nanostructures have been embedded into inorganic, polymeric matrices to prepare a great variety of nanocomposites, which display unique physicochemical properties. This chapter focuses on graphene-related nanostructures, including graphene oxide, graphite quantum dots, carbon nanotubes, and their composites, which originate from the graphene oxide self-assembly. The synthetical methods and applications of the carbon nanomaterials are also presented.
δ-Tocotrienol induces apoptosis and inhibits proliferation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells
Authors: Shen Junjun , Yang Tao , Tang Yiping , Guo Tianyi , Guo Ting , Hu Tao , Luo Feijun , Lin Qinlu
Published: May 2021

The potential molecular mechanism of the anti-cancer activity of δ-tocotrienol in nasopharyngeal carcinoma CNE1 cells.
Potential targets and the action mechanism of food-derived dipeptides on colitis: network pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Ge Huifang , Zhang Biying , Li Ting , Yu Yue , Men Fangbing , Zhao Songning , Liu Jingbo , Zhang Ting
Published: May 2021

The present study provides an efficient method for screening food-derived dipeptides to attenuate colitis based on the network pharmacology and bioinformatics analysis.
Analytical figures of merit of a low-dispersion aerosol transport system for high-throughput LA-ICP-MS analysis
Authors: Van Acker Thibaut , Van Malderen Stijn J. M. , Van Helden Tom , Stremtan Ciprian , Šala Martin , van Elteren Johannes T. , Vanhaecke Frank
Published: May 2021

This work reports on the analytical performance of a LA-ICP-MS low-dispersion aerosol transport system coupled to a two-volume ablation cell and a low-dispersion ablation cell housed in a LA-unit equipped with a nanosecond 1 kHz lasing system.
Direct observation of spin correlations in an artificial triangular lattice Ising spin system with grazing-incidence small-angle neutron scattering
Authors: Pip Petai , Glavic Artur , Skjærvø Sandra Helen , Weber Anja , Smerald Andrew , Zhernenkov Kirill , Leo Naëmi , Mila Frédéric , Philippe Laetitia , Heyderman Laura J.
Published: May 2021

Short-range correlations in the highly frustrated spin-liquid state of an artificial triangular-lattice Ising spin system were measured using grazing incidence small-angle neutron scattering and quantified using an empirical structure factor.
Recoil implantation using gas-phase precursor molecules
Authors: Gale Angus , Fröch Johannes E. , Kianinia Mehran , Bishop James , Aharonovich Igor , Toth Milos
Published: May 2021

Schematic illustration of the recoil implantation process by using gas-phase precursor molecules.
Hypervalent-iodine mediated one-pot synthesis of isoxazolines and isoxazoles bearing a difluoromethyl phosphonate moiety
Authors: Pajkert Romana , Koroniak Henryk , Kafarski Paweł , Röschenthaler Gerd-Volker
Published: May 2021

A one-step, regioselective procedure to an unexplored class of isoxazolines and isoxazoles bearing a difluoromethyl phosphonate group is reported.
Synthesis of a biotinylated heptose 1,7-bisphosphate analogue, a probe to study immunity and inflammation
Authors: Liang Lina , Cao Jun , Wei Tong-You Wade , Tsai Ming-Daw , Vincent Stéphane P.
Published: May 2021

This study reports the synthesis of a biotinylated analogue of the bacterial metabolite heptose bisphosphate in a regioselective and stereoselective manner from methyl α-d-mannoside.
Compartmentalized polymerization in aqueous and organic media to low-entangled ultra high molecular weight polyethylene
Authors: Wimmer Florian P. , Ebel Viktoria , Schmidt Felix , Mecking Stefan
Published: May 2021

Catalytic polymerization in compartmentalized aqueous or non-aqueous media, respectively, with functional-group tolerant Ni(ii) catalysts yields low-entangled UHMWPE.
Hydrogen bond reinforced, transparent polycaprolactone-based degradable polyurethane
Authors: Zhong Qianyun , Chen Xingxing , Yang Yuxuan , Cui Chenhui , Ma Li , Li Zhen , Zhang Qiang , Chen Xiaoming , Cheng Yilong , Zhang Yanfeng
Published: May 2021

Reinforced and toughened polyurethane film for post-operative anti-adhesion.
Noncovalent interactions in Ir-catalyzed remote C–H borylation: a recent update
Authors: Pandit Saikat , Maiti Sudip , Maiti Debabrata
Published: May 2021

This highlight provides a recent update on noncovalent interaction enabled Ir-catalyzed remote C–H borylation, with a special emphasis on the corresponding enantioselective variant.
Dynamic covalent bond constrained ureas for multimode fluorescence switching, thermally induced emission, and chemical signaling cascades
Authors: Sattar Fazli , Feng Zelin , Zou Hanxun , Ye Hebo , Zhang Yi , You Lei
Published: May 2021

A combination of organic ureas and dynamic covalent chemistry was demonstrated for multistate switching, thermally induced fluorescence, and signaling cascades.
Hetero-Diels–Alder reactions of 2H-phospholes with allenes: synthesis and functionalization of 6-methylene-1-phosphanorbornenes
Authors: Zhang Keke , Zhang Qiaoyu , Wei Donghui , Tian Rongqiang , Duan Zheng
Published: May 2021

The phospha-Diels–Alder reaction between 2H-phospholes and arylallenes affords 6-methylene-1-phosphanorbornenes in high yields with excellent regioselectivity. Further functionalization provides a 1-phosphanorbornene modified PCH2CH2P skeleton.
A Co-MOF-derived flower-like CoS@S,N-doped carbon matrix for highly efficient overall water splitting
Authors: Bereketova Akerke , Nallal Muthuchamy , Yusuf Mohammad , Jang Sanha , Selvam Karthick , Park Kang Hyun
Published: May 2021

In this study, we constructed a highly effective, low-cost, non-noble-metal-based electrocatalyst to replace Pt catalysts, with a CoS@SNC catalyst being successfully synthesized.
Natural coumarins as potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents supported by docking analysis
Authors: Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan , Albohy Amgad , Abdulrazik Basma S. , Bayoumi Soad A. L. , Malak Lourin G. , Khallaf Iman S. A. , Bringmann Gerhard , Farag Salwa F.
Published: May 2021

Potential of coumarins against Covid-19.
Newly synthesized MAX phase Zr2SeC: DFT insights into physical properties towards possible applications
Authors: Ali M. A. , Qureshi Muhammad Waqas
Published: May 2021

This is the first time study of the mechanical properties including Vickers hardness and elastic anisotropy, electronic charge density distribution, thermodynamic and optical properties of the synthesized MAX phase Zr2SeC via DFT calculations.
Effect of manganese doping on the hyperthermic profile of ferrite nanoparticles using response surface methodology
Authors: Gupta Ruby , Tomar Ruchi , Chakraverty Suvankar , Sharma Deepika
Published: May 2021

Magnetic hyperthermia-based cancer therapy mediated by magnetic nanomaterials is a promising antitumoral nanotherapy, owning to its power to generate heat under the application of an alternating magnetic field.
An automated computational approach to kinetic model discrimination and parameter estimation
Authors: Taylor Connor J. , Seki Hikaru , Dannheim Friederike M. , Willis Mark J. , Clemens Graeme , Taylor Brian A. , Chamberlain Thomas W. , Bourne Richard A.
Published: May 2021

We herein report experimental applications of a novel, automated computational approach to chemical reaction network (CRN) identification.
DeepFrag: a deep convolutional neural network for fragment-based lead optimization
Authors: Green Harrison , Koes David R. , Durrant Jacob D.
Published: May 2021

DeepFrag is a machine-learning model designed to assist with lead optimization. It recommends appropriate fragment additions given the 3D structures of a protein receptor and bound small-molecule ligand.
Fast-responding functional DNA superstructures for stimuli-triggered protein release
Authors: Zhang Yuxin , Zhang Qiang , Cheng Fang , Chang Yangyang , Liu Meng , Li Yingfu
Published: May 2021

A stimuli-responsive gating system enabled by protein@3D DNA was engineered, which allows controlled protein release in a fast-responsive manner.
A facile combinatorial approach to construct a ratiometric fluorescent sensor: application for the real-time sensing of cellular pH changes
Authors: Nakata Eiji , Hirose Hisaaki , Gerelbaatar Khongorzul , Arafiles Jan Vincent V. , Zhang Zhengxiao , Futaki Shiroh , Morii Takashi
Published: May 2021

A combinatorial assembly of two types of intensity-based fluorophores on a DNA nanostructure provided a ratiometric pH probe with high emission intensity for monitoring intracellular pH changes.
Spatial-confinement induced electroreduction of CO and CO2 to diols on densely-arrayed Cu nanopyramids
Authors: Chen Ling , Tang Cheng , Davey Kenneth , Zheng Yao , Jiao Yan , Qiao Shi-Zhang
Published: May 2021

Densely-arrayed Cu nanopyramids have spatial confinement induced by the additional Cu–O bond. This promotes C–C coupling, regulates post-C–C coupling, and retains both oxygen atoms in an alternative pathway toward ethylene glycol formation from CO.
Recent structural evolution of lactam- and imide-functionalized polymers applied in organic field-effect transistors and organic solar cells
Authors: Zhou Yankai , Zhang Weifeng , Yu Gui
Published: May 2021

This review highlights the recent structural evolution of lactam- and imide-functionalized polymers applied in organic field-effect transistors and organic solar cells.
Achieving selective photocatalytic CO2 reduction to CO on bismuth tantalum oxyhalogen nanoplates
Authors: Tao Xiaoping , Wang Yi , Qu Jiangshan , Zhao Yue , Li Rengui , Li Can
Published: May 2021

Photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to selectively produce CO was realized on the semiconductor Bi4TaO8X (X = Cl, Br) under visible light without sacrificial reagent. Morphology regulation and silver cocatalyst decoration could enhance the activity.
SAPs as a new model to probe the pathway of centriole and centrosome assembly
Authors: Wainman Alan
Published: May 2021

Centrioles are important cellular organelles involved in the formation of both cilia and centrosomes. It is therefore not surprising that their dysfunction may lead to a variety of human pathologies. Studies have identified a conserved pathway of proteins required for centriole formation, and investigations using the embryo of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster have been crucial in elucidating their dynamics. However, a full understanding of how these components interact has been hampered by the total absence of centrioles in null mutant backgrounds for any of these core centriole factors. Here, I review our recent work describing a new model for investigating these interactions in the absence of bona fide centrioles. Sas-6 Ana2 Particles (SAPs) form when two core centriole factors, Sas-6 and Ana2, are co-over-expressed in fruit fly eggs. Crucially, they form even in eggs lacking other core centriole proteins. I review our characterisation of SAPs, and provide one example of how they have been used to investigate the role of a core centriole protein in PCM formation. I then consider some of the strengths and weaknesses of the SAP model, and discuss them in the context of other models for centriole study in Drosophila. Similar aggregates have been seen in other systems upon expression of centriole factors, so SAPs may also be a useful approach to study centriole proteins in other organisms.
Colorimetric optical nanosensors for trace explosive detection using metal nanoparticles: advances, pitfalls, and future perspective
Authors: Adegoke Oluwasesan , Nic Daeid Niamh
Published: May 2021

Warfare threats and acts of terror are challenging situations encountered by defense agencies across the globe and are of growing concern to the general public, and security-minded policy makers. Detecting ultra-low quantities of explosive compounds in remote locations or under harsh conditions for anti-terror purposes as well as the environmental monitoring of residual or discarded explosives in soil, remains a major challenge. The use of metal nanoparticles (NPs) for trace explosive detection has drawn considerable interest in recent years. For nano-based explosive sensor devices to meet real-life operational demands, analytical parameters such as, long-shelf life, stability under harsh conditions, ease-of-use, high sensitivity, excellent selectivity, and rapid signal response must be met. Generally, the analytical performance of colorimetric-based nanosensor systems is strongly dependent on the surface properties of the nanomaterial used in the colorimetric assay. The size and shape properties of metal NPs, surface functionalisation efficiency, and assay fabrication methods, are factors that influence the efficacy of colorimetric explosive nanosensor systems. This review reports on the design and analytical performances of colorimetric explosive sensor systems using metal NPs as optical signal transducers. The challenges of trace explosive detection, advances in metal NP colorimetric explosive design, limitations of each methods, and possible strategies to mitigate the problems are discussed.
Deep forgery discriminator via image degradation analysis
Authors: Yu Miaomiao , Zhang Jun , Li Shuohao , Lei Jun , Wang Fenglei , Zhou Hao
Published: May 2021

Generative adversarial network‐based deep generative model is widely applied in creating hyper‐realistic face‐swapping images and videos. However, its malicious use has posed a great threat to online contents, thus making detecting the authenticity of images and videos a tricky task. Most of the existing detection methods are only suitable for one type of forgery and only work for low‐quality tampered images, restricting their applications. This paper concerns the construction of a novel discriminator with better comprehensive capabilities. Through analysis of the visual characteristics of manipulated images from the perspective of image quality, it is revealed that the synthesized face does have different degrees of quality degradation compared to the source content. Therefore, several kinds of image quality‐related handicraft features are extracted, including texture, sharpness, frequency domain features, and deep features, to unveil the inconsistent information and modification traces in the fake faces. In this way, a 1065‐dimensional vector of each image is obtained through multi‐feature fusion, and it is then fed into RF to train a targeted binary classification detector. Extensive experiments have shown that the proposed scheme is superior to the previous methods in recognition accuracy on multiple manipulation databases including the Celeb‐DF database with better visual quality.
Research on impulse impedance model and protection optimization of transmission tower grounding device in mountainous area
Authors: Huang Lin , Zhou Lijun , Zhang Dong , Wang Dongyang , Gu Weifu , Chen Sixiang
Published: May 2021

The impulse impedance of the tower is the core parameter to evaluate the lightning protection performance of the transmission line. The high soil resistivity and the underground rock layers in the mountainous areas will induce large impulse impedance and further lead to frequent lightning striking accidents. Therefore, this paper proposes a circuit‐finite element model (CFEM) and investigates the corresponding impedance‐reduction optimization method of the grounding device in mountainous areas. The model takes into account the nonlinear characteristics of the soil. Based on the parallel‐plate electrode and the concentric hemispheric test device, the nonlinear curves of the soil resistivity of five typical kinds of soils with the electric field intensity are obtained. To justify the CFEM, the field experiment of a single horizontal conductor is performed, with an average relative error of 4.67%. Based on the CFEM, this paper presents an impedance‐reduction optimization method for the grounding device in the mountainous areas, while proposing the best design method and the optimal layout of the grounding device in the rocky zone. The research results can provide a reference for the design transformation and protection optimization of the transmission tower grounding device in mountainous areas.
Measurement and causal modelling of twisted pair copper cables
Authors: Yoho Jason J. , Riad Sedki M. , Muqaibel Ali H.
Published: May 2021

The modelling of twisted pair copper cables has been under investigation in recent years with the emergence of several forms of digital subscriber line broadband access technology including G.fast. Designers of these communication systems implement these models to prototype early system architectures as well as simulate feasibility trials on the existing subscriber loop infrastructure. Previous attempts at modelling these cables have been limited because of the challenges associated with acquiring physical measurement and the inaccuracies of simulators to model effects such as the skin effect, which is significant when using these cables in high‐speed systems. These previous modelling attempts employed empirical formulas to match the measured primary transmission line parameters (RLCG) of the cables and generally failed to meet the Kramer–Kronig causality relationships. This paper presents a measurement setup for the electrical properties of twisted pair copper cables as well as a realizable RLCG model for the cables. This model is based on electromagnetic theory considering the model causality, the skin effect, and the twisting of the cable.
A non‐contact gap measurement method for narrow and irregular targets using inductive planar sensors with simple calibration
Authors: Jiao Dian , Ni Liwei , Yu Xueyang , Zhe Jiang
Published: May 2021

Planar inductive sensors are widely used for non‐contact gap measurement. Usually, a change in size, shape, or material of the target requires a tedious recalibration of the measurement setup. This paper aims to present a new method to measure the gap from irregular and narrow targets using a planar inductive sensor without this tedious calibration process. The magnetic field distribution on this target was numerically studied, and the findings suggested that a simpler calibration would work by modeling the induced current in the target as a virtual planar coil. For this target, we found that the calibration curves corresponding to different materials can be obtained by adding a constant C to the base curve. To validate this approach, three planar coils of different sizes were tested with four metallic turbine blade‐shaped targets. Results showed that the measured gaps matched well with the real gaps, with a maximum error of about 3.703%. The new approach can be applied to various applications including 3D printer build platform calibration, bandsaw blade deviation detection, and blade tip clearance monitoring.
Modélisation physique de l’initiation et la progression de l’érosion de contact au sein des digues de canaux typiques des aménagements du Rhin et du Rhône
Authors: Beguin Rémi , Duchesne Laurence , Picault Christophe , Fry Jean-Jacques , Courivaud Jean-Robert , Philippe Pierre
Published: May 2021

Les digues des aménagements hydro-électriques du Rhône et du Rhin sont sensibles à un type d’érosion interne appelé érosion de contact et localisé aux interfaces sols fins/sols grossiers, notamment à l’interface noyau/fondation. Pour analyser ce phénomène, un programme de recherche a été mené conjointement par CNR et EDF depuis 2008, d’abord à l’échelle de l’échantillon au laboratoire LTHE (Université de Grenoble), puis à l’échelle d’un modèle physique à échelle 1 au CACOH à Lyon (Centre d’analyse comportementale des ouvrages hydrauliques, CNR). Ces essais ont d’abord démontré la possibilité de formation d’un conduit d’érosion à la base du noyau menant à une rupture rapide (Beguin et al., 2013a). Pour éviter ce type de rupture, une seconde phase a testé le rôle d’une recharge granulaire, comme parade à ce processus. Une troisième phase expérimentale s’est focalisée sur la recherche des conditions de stabilité de cette recharge, lorsque le conduit amène une forte pression hydraulique sous la recharge. Le dispositif expérimental à échelle 1 utilisé permet la construction de tronçons de digue expérimentale de 2,2 m de hauteur, 4 m de largeur et 8 m de longueur. Ces tronçons sont soumis au chargement hydraulique souhaité pendant une durée de quelques heures à deux semaines et suivis par une instrumentation adaptée. Grâce à ce modèle physique de digue de grande dimension, les scénarios de progression de l’érosion, qui mettent en jeu des échelles supérieures à celle de l’échantillon, ont été observés et analysés pour la première fois. La dernière phase expérimentale a abouti à la proposition de critères de stabilité d’une recharge granulaire vis-à-vis de ce processus d’érosion.
Diagnóstico e tratamento do dedo de gatilho no Brasil - Estudo transversal
Authors: Silva Paulo Henrique Jeronimo da , Moraes Vinícius Ynoe de , Segre Nicolau Granado , Sato Edson Sasahara , Faloppa Flávio , Belloti João Carlos
Published: May 2021

Objetivo Avaliar o planejamento terapêutico para o dedo em gatilho por ortopedistas brasileiros.

Métodos Estudo transversal, cuja população foi composta por participantes do Congresso Brasileiro de Ortopedia e Traumatologia 2018 (CBOT-2018). Foi aplicado um questionário sobre a conduta adotada no diagnóstico e tratamento do dedo em gatilho.

Resultados Foram analisados 243 participantes com média de idade de 37.46 anos, na maioria homens (88%), tempo de experiência de pelo menos 1 ano (55,6%), e da região Sudeste (68.3%). A análise dos questionários evidenciou que há consenso nos seguintes quesitos: diagnóstico somente com exame físico (73,3%), classificação de Quinnell modificada por Green (58,4%), tratamento inicial não cirúrgico (91,4%), infiltração de corticoide com anestésico (61,7%) tempo de tratamento não cirúrgico de 1 a 3 meses (52,3%), tratamento cirúrgico pela via aberta (84,4%), principalmente via aberta transversa (51%), recidiva do engatilhamento como principal complicação não cirúrgica (58%), e o sucesso da cirurgia aberta em > 90% (63%), sendo a sua principal complicação as complicações cicatriciais (54%). Sem consenso nas demais variáveis. De acordo com a experiência, foram observadas diferenças referentes ao tempo de tratamento (p = 0.013) e a taxa de complicação da cirurgia aberta (p = 0.010).

Conclusões O ortopedista brasileiro tem preferência pelo diagnóstico do dedo em gatilho apenas com exame físico, classifica segundo Quinnell modificado por Green, tratamento inicial não cirúrgico, infiltrações com corticoide e anestésico local, tempo de tratamento não cirúrgico de 1 a 3 meses, tratamento cirúrgico por via aberta transversa, principal complicação não cirúrgica a recidiva do engatilhamento, e considera o sucesso da cirurgia aberta em > 90% dos casos, tendo como principal complicação as complicações cicatriciais.
Advanced Endoscopic Tools
Authors: Fung Eleanor C.
Published: May 2021

The advent and success of therapeutic endoscopy has expanded the utilization of endoscopy as an effective alternative to surgical intervention in some cases with decreased morbidity, improved outcomes, and shortened length of hospital stay. Gastrointestinal bleeding, perforations, leaks, fistulas, and strictures have become increasingly managed by endoscopy with the evolution and development of endoscopic tools for effective closure of full-thickness gastrointestinal defects, dilation, and hemostasis. This article reviews the characteristics and role of endoscopic clips, stents, dilation balloons, endoscopic knives, and suturing devices.
Radioembolization for Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Ali Aamir , Manzoor Komal , Weinstein Jeffrey L. , Faintuch Salomao , Ahmed Muneeb , Sarwar Ammar
Published: May 2021

Cholangiocarcinoma is the second most common primary hepatic malignancy which accounts for 13% of total cancer mortality worldwide. Surgical resection is the only curative treatment for localized disease; however, the majority of patients present when the tumor is unresectable. The incidence of the intrahepatic subtype of cholangiocarcinoma is increasing worldwide. Current standard of care in patients with unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is systemic chemotherapy; however, yttrium-90 transarterial radioembolization (Y90-TARE) is under investigation for the treatment of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with promising trials and published clinical experience. This review critically evaluates the role of Y90-TARE in the management of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.
Highly efficient optoelectronic devices based on colloidal heterostructured quantum dots
Authors: Liu Peng , Liu Bingxu , Zhang Yuanming , Jiang Zhan , Zhao Haiguang
Published: May 2021

Recently, significant progress has been made in colloidal quantum dot (QD) based optoelectronic devices for solar energy conversion, such as solar cells, luminescent solar concentrators, and solar-driven photoelectrochemical devices. In this Research Update, we summarized the most recent works on the QD based optoelectronic devices. Particularly, we focused on the effect of the QD structure on the functional properties of QD based devices. The major factors that determine the efficiency of the optoelectronic devices were discussed. In the end, we proposed potential ways to address the future challenges and opportunities of this field.
Coherent terahertz radiation with orbital angular momentum by helically microbunched electron beam
Authors: Zhang Haoran , Wang Wenxing , Jiang Shimin , Li Cheng , He Zhigang , Zhang Shancai , Jia Qika , Wang Lin , He Duohui
Published: May 2021

A scheme to generate coherent terahertz (THz) radiation carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM) through down-frequency conversion of optical lasers and higher order mode coupling is proposed and analyzed. Based on the laser–electron interaction in the undulator under a linear regime, the scheme utilizes dual-frequency lasers resonating at the harmonics of two consecutive undulators and a dispersion section to impose a THz helical microbunching in the electron beam. By choosing appropriate parameters of lasers and dispersion section, the density modulation can be down-converted to a THz spectral-domain and the central frequency can be extensively tuned together with the helical mode number. Then, the helically microbunched beam can be used as a source of THz OAM radiation in a downstream radiator. We expect that the intense vortex beam in the terahertz band will bring new opportunities for the research of quantum topological materials.
Origin of vernacular names of plants: case of toxic plants for medicinal use in the central Middle Atlas – Morocco
Authors: Najem Mariame , Nassiri Laila , Ibijbijen Jamal
Published: May 2021

The present study investigates the origin and significance of the vernacular appellations of 83 toxic plants solicited in the traditional phytotherapy of the Moroccan central Middle Atlas. The vernacular names attributed to those medicinal plants were collected from some phytotherapists during ethnobotanical surveys and through various bibliographical sources. It appears that the listed plants have different vernacular names in Arabic and/or Berber dialect; but, only the origin of the appellation of 47 species was clarified. This denomination essentially finds its origin in descriptors related to the morphology of the plants, their secretions and their uses, and sometimes, it evokes legends, habitats and animal organs. Certainly, the identification of plants on the basis of asserted taxonomic criteria is unavoidable, but, the vernaculars remain faithful indicators especially since they are part of the intangible Moroccan culture and heritage.
Studying subjective hearing loss in older adults measured by speech, spatial, and quality of hearing scale within the framework of the ICF core set for hearing loss
Authors: Alfakir Razan
Published: May 2021

Objective

This study aimed to assess categories underlying subjective hearing loss (SHL) in older adults using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability (ICF) and Health-Brief Core Set for Hearing Loss (ICF-BCS-HL).

Design

A cross-sectional study. One-hundred and thirty-one independent-living older adults (Mage = 72.32, SD = 6.83), who completed the speech, spatial, and quality of hearing (SSQ) scale and a set of clinically accepted outcome measurements linked with selected categories listed in the ICF-BCS-HL.

Results

A linear regression analysis model was fitted with the outcome measurements after controlling for age, sex, education, multimorbidity, and hearing aid use. The model showed 5 significant predictors underlying the SSQ-total score: HL (ß = −.38, p ≤ .001), dizziness handicap (ß = −.35, p ≤ .001), cognitive decline (ß = .17, p < .05), multimorbidity (ß = .12, p < .005), and poor ability to accept the noise level (ß = −.16, p = p < .05). Predictors varied across the SSQ-subscales scores, however.

Conclusion

A link of SHL with HL, cognitive deficits, poor ability to accept background noise level, and multimorbidity, collectively or individually, were well-established. So far, little attention has been paid to the impact of dizziness handicap of elderly patients when evaluating their SHL.
Solving the Kratzer oscillator in diatomic molecules: an algebraic approach based on the so(2,1) Lie algebra
Authors: Maulén Boris , Gonzalez Jose Mauricio
Published: May 2021

In this article, we solve the rovibrational Schrödinger equation for diatomic molecules using the Kratzer oscillator by means of the

so
(
2
,
1
)

Lie algebra. The main contribution of our algebraic approach is that this allows us to reduce the degree of the Schrödinger equation giving thus a first-order differential equation, by which the vibrational ground state wave function is obtained, clearly and in few steps. The energies are obtained by scaling of the observables r and p

r
which preserves the canonical commutation relation, and a recurrence relation for the bound states written in terms of the raising operator is also given. Also we calculate the rovibrational spectrum of H
2 and CO molecules, showing that the energies of the Kratzer oscillator not only depends on vibrational and rotational quantum numbers, but also in the difference between the vibrational quantum number with its minimum value, for a fixed l. The article ends giving a physical insight of the symmetry transformation of the SO(2, 1) Lie group in order to show the relationship between this group and its associated Lie algebra. Finally, as an illustrative example, we calculated the selection rules for the vibrational quantum number, from a purely algebraic approach.