bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bio-mimetic synthesis of catalytically active nano-silver using Bos taurus (A-2) urine
Authors: Sarvalkar Prashant D. , Mandavkar Rutuja R. , Nimbalkar Mansingraj S. , Sharma Kiran K. , Patil Pramod S. , Kamble Ganesh S. , Prasad Neeraj R.
Published: August 2021

Herein we have synthesized silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) using liquid metabolic waste of Bos taurus (A-2 type) urine. Various bio-molecules present in cow urine, are effectively used to reduce silver (Ag) ions into silver nanoparticles in one step. This is bio-inspired electron transfer to Ag ion for the formation of base Ag metal and is fairly prompt and facile. These nanoparticles act as a positive catalyst for various organic transformation reactions. The structural, morphological, and optical properties of the as-synthesized Ag NPs are widely characterized by X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, Fourier transmission infra-red spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The as-synthesized bio-mimetic Ag NPs show potential activity for several reduction reactions of nitro groups. The Ag NPs were also used for degradation of hazardous dyes such as Methylene blue and Crystal violet with good degradation rate constant.
Phosphorylation of CrkL S114 induced by common gamma chain cytokines and T-cell receptor signal transduction
Authors: Estrada Armando , Rodriguez Alejandro C. , Rodriguez Georgialina , Grant Alice H. , Ayala-Marin Yoshira M. , Arrieta Amy J. , Kirken Robert A.
Published: August 2021

T-cell activation and cellular expansion by common gamma chain cytokines such as Interleukin-2 is necessary for adaptive immunity. However, when unregulated these same pathways promote pathologies ranging from autoimmune disorders to cancer. While the functional role of Interleukin-2 and downstream effector molecules is relatively clear, the repertoire of phosphoregulatory proteins downstream of this pathway is incomplete. To identify phosphoproteins downstream of common gamma chain receptor, YT cells were radiolabeled with [32P]-orthophosphate and stimulated with Interleukin-2. Subsequently, tyrosine phosphorylated proteins were immunopurified and subjected to tandem mass spectrometry—leading to the identification of CrkL. Phosphoamino acid analysis revealed concurrent serine phosphorylation of CrkL and was later identified as S114 by mass spectrometry analysis. S114 was inducible through stimulation with Interleukin-2 or T-cell receptor stimulation. Polyclonal antibodies were generated against CrkL phospho-S114, and used to show its inducibility by multiple stimuli. These findings confirm CrkL as an Interleukin-2 responsive protein that becomes phosphorylated at S114 by a kinase/s downstream of PI3K and MEK/ERK signaling.
Glacial mode shift of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation by warming over the Southern Ocean
Authors: Oka Akira , Abe-Ouchi Ayako , Sherriff-Tadano Sam , Yokoyama Yusuke , Kawamura Kenji , Hasumi Hiroyasu
Published: August 2021

Abrupt climate warming events, known as Dansgaard-Oeschger events, occurred frequently during glacial periods, and are thought to be linked to changes in the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation. However, the mechanism responsible is not fully understood. Here, we present numerical simulations with a sea-ice coupled ocean general circulation model that systematically investigate the thermal threshold where deep water formation, and hence the overturning circulation, shift abruptly when the sea surface cools or warms sufficiently. Specifically, in our simulations where the magnitude of the sea surface cooling is changed separately or simultaneously in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, a prominent threshold is identified when the Southern Hemisphere is slightly warmer than during glacial maxima. Abrupt mode changes of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, like those during Dansgaard-Oeschger events, occur past a threshold in a transient simulation where the Southern Hemisphere is gradually warmed. We propose that the Southern Ocean plays a role in controlling the thermal threshold of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation in a glacial climate and that Southern Ocean warming may have triggered Dansgaard-Oeschger events which occurred with long interval.
The Inflammatory Bowel Disease Transcriptome and Metatranscriptome Meta-Analysis (IBD TaMMA) framework
Authors: Massimino Luca , Lamparelli Luigi Antonio , Houshyar Yashar , D’Alessio Silvia , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Vetrano Stefania , Danese Silvio , Ungaro Federica
Published: August 2021

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a class of chronic disorders whose etiogenesis is still unknown. Despite the high number of IBD-related omics studies, the RNA-sequencing data produced results that are hard to compare because of the experimental variability and different data analysis approaches. We here introduce the IBD Transcriptome and Metatranscriptome Meta-Analysis (TaMMA) framework, a comprehensive survey of publicly available IBD RNA-sequencing datasets. IBD TaMMA is an open-source platform where scientists can explore simultaneously the freely available IBD-associated transcriptomics and microbial profiles thanks to its interactive interface, resulting in a useful tool to the IBD community.
Distinct effects of host and neighbour tree identity on arbuscular and ectomycorrhizal fungi along a tree diversity gradient
Authors: Ferlian Olga , Goldmann Kezia , Eisenhauer Nico , Tarkka Mika T , Buscot François , Heintz-Buschart Anna
Published: August 2021

Plant diversity and plant-related ecosystem functions have been important in biodiversity-ecosystem functioning studies. However, biotic interactions with mycorrhizal fungi have been understudied although they are crucial for plant-resource acquisition. Here, we investigated the effects of tree species richness and tree mycorrhizal type on arbuscular (AMF) and ectomycorrhizal fungal (EMF) communities. We aimed to understand how dissimilarities in taxa composition and beta-diversity are related to target trees and neighbours of the same or different mycorrhizal type. We sampled a tree diversity experiment with saplings (~7 years old), where tree species richness (monocultures, 2-species, and 4-species mixtures) and mycorrhizal type were manipulated. AMF and EMF richness significantly increased with increasing tree species richness. AMF richness of mixture plots resembled that of the sum of the respective monocultures, whereas EMF richness of mixture plots was lower compared to the sum of the respective monocultures. Specialisation scores revealed significantly more specialised AMF than EMF suggesting that, in contrast to previous studies, AMF were more specialised, whereas EMF were not. We further found that AMF communities were little driven by the surrounding trees, whereas EMF communities were. Our study revealed drivers of mycorrhizal fungal communities and further highlights the distinct strategies of AMF and EMF.
The helical supramolecular assembly of oligopyridylamide foldamers in aqueous media can be guided by adenosine diphosphates
Authors: Maity Debabrata , Hamilton Andrew D.
Published: August 2021

A metal-free and achiral tri-pyridylamide foldamer, DM 11, containing a critical naphthalimide side chain self-assembles in a left-handed helical manner in the presence of chiral adenosine phosphates, under physiological conditions.
Lead zirconate titanate aerogel piezoelectric composite designed with a biomimetic shell structure for underwater acoustic transducers
Authors: Long Xin , Wei Xiongbang , Qiu Yuhong , Jiang Ming , Chen Zhi , Song Yaochen , Bi Linnan , Wang Jianming , Wang Sizhe , Liao Jiaxuan
Published: August 2021

Combining 5-layer PZT aerogel/PVDF composite coatings and PZT aerogel sintered sheets based on the design of bionic shell structure, the PZT aerogel piezoelectric composite with natural excellent mechanical properties has been successfully prepared.
Dramatically comprehensive improved electrochemical performances of symmetric and asymmetric supercapacitors under external magnetic field
Authors: Guo Manying , Qu Zihan , Zhou Juan , Han Chengdong , Liu Xu , Liu Hongbin , Zhao Lijun
Published: August 2021

Recently, magnetic field (MF) has been described as a potential way to improve the properties of electrode materials, which significantly enhances the ion diffusion behavior and material wettability.
Construction of AuPdPt spherical nanodendrites with a multilayered structure by manipulating etching and regrowth in seeded growth
Authors: Zheng Yiqun , Ma Yanyun , Zhang Gongguo , Zhao Wenjun , Liu Feng , Liu Maochang
Published: August 2021

Size-tunable gold–palladium–platinum nanodendrites with a multilayered structure are successfully preparedviaetching–regrowth-involved seeded growth, exhibiting superb electrochemical activity for formic acid oxidation.
Spontaneous flexoelectricity and band engineering in MS2 (M = Mo, W) nanotubes
Authors: Dong Jiansheng , Hu Huamin , Li Hai , Ouyang Gang
Published: August 2021

Flexoelectricity in double-wall TMD nanotubes can lead to a straddling-to-staggered bandgap transition with increasing tube diameter, showing how different diameters correspond to a variety of applications in optoelectronic devices.
Generalized energy-based fragmentation approach for calculations of solvation energies of large systems
Authors: Liao Kang , Wang Shirong , Li Wei , Li Shuhua
Published: August 2021

The self-consistent reaction field calculation of a large system can be simplified as the corresponding calculations of various subsystems embedded in background point charges and surface charges.
Propensity, free energy contributions and conformation of primary n-alcohols at a water surface
Authors: Ekholm Victor , Caleman Carl , Hub Jochen S. , Wohlert Malin
Published: August 2021

The transition of primary alcohol molecules from bulk water to the surface is driven by entropy, increasing linearly with length of the hydrophobic tail. The enthalpy of surface adsorption is nearly invariant with increasing length of the molecule.
Simple lattice model of self-assembling metal–organic layers of pyridyl-substituted porphyrins and copper on Au(111) surface
Authors: Fadeeva Anastasiia I. , Gorbunov Vitaly A. , Myshlyavtsev Alexander V.
Published: August 2021

A simple lattice model of Au(111) surface-confined metal–organic layers based on pyridyl-substituted porphyrins differing in the number and position of pyridyl groups is proposed. Self-assembly mechanisms driven by pressure changes are revealed.
The not so identical twins: (dis)similarities between reactive electrophile and oxidant sensing and signaling
Authors: Long Marcus J. C. , Huang Kuan-Ting , Aye Yimon
Published: August 2021

In this tutorial review, we compare and contrast the chemical mechanisms of electrophile/oxidant sensing, and the molecular mechanisms of signal propagation.
The heat recovery potential of ‘wastewater’: a national analysis of sewage effluent discharge temperatures
Authors: Wilson M. P. , Worrall F.
Published: August 2021

Environmental water quality data from England are used to establish the excess heat in sewage effluent discharges to rivers and subsequently estimate the national scale heat recovery potential of wastewater.
Multifunctional lignin-based nanocomposites and nanohybrids
Authors: Lizundia Erlantz , Sipponen Mika H. , Greca Luiz G. , Balakshin Mikhail , Tardy Blaise L. , Rojas Orlando J. , Puglia Debora
Published: August 2021

Significant progress has been achieved in recent years in relation to lignin valorization and development of high-performance sustainable materials.
Adaptively reconstructing network of soft elastomers to increase strand rigidity: towards free-standing electro-actuation strain over 100%
Authors: Chen Zheqi , Ma Zipeng , Tang Jiali , Xiao Youhua , Mao Jie , Cai Yiting , Zhao Junjie , Gao Xiang , Li Tiefeng , Luo Yingwu
Published: August 2021

A thermomechanical training method is reported to increase the network strand rigidity of triblock copolymer elastomers, leading to significantly enhanced electro-actuation performance.
Computational study of the copolymerization mechanism of ethylene with methyl 2-acetamidoacrylate catalyzed by phosphine-sulfonate palladium complexes
Authors: Mehmood Andleeb , Xu Xiaowei , Raza Waseem , Kukkar Deepak , Kim Ki-Hyun , Luo Yi
Published: August 2021

In this research, a computational study is carried out to describe the insertion of a vital monomer, methyl 2-acetamidoacrylate (MAAA), into catalyst A (A = [(POOMe,OMe)PdMe]) (POOMe,OMe = 2[2-MeOC6H4](2-SO3-5-MeC6H4)P).
Direct synthesis of indazole derivatives via Rh(iii)-catalyzed C–H activation of phthalazinones and allenes
Authors: Yin Chuanliu , Zhong Tianshuo , Zheng Xiangyun , Li Lianghao , Zhou Jian , Yu Chuanming
Published: August 2021

An Rh(iii)-catalyzed annulation of phthalazinones and various allenes was developed, leading to the formation of indazole derivatives. This catalytic system exhibits excellent functional group tolerance and atom economy.
Nucleophile-induced transformation of phenoxathiin-based thiacalixarenes
Authors: Landovský Tomáš , Babor Martin , Čejka Jan , Eigner Václav , Dvořáková Hana , Krupička Martin , Lhoták Pavel
Published: August 2021

The phenoxathiin-based thiacalix[4]arenes react with NaSH to yield unexpected linear oligomers through a unique cascade of three consequent SNAr reactions triggered by the initial nucleophilic attack of an SH−anion.
A closed-loop regeneration of LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 and graphite from spent batteries via efficient lithium supplementation and structural remodelling
Authors: Zhou Qinwen , Huang Zixuan , Liu Jianwen , Zhao Yufeng , Jung Joey Chung-Yen , Zhang Jiujun , Xu Shengming
Published: August 2021

A novel closed-loop method to regenerate high nickel content NCM622 batteries is reported for the first time.
Conductive dual hydrogen bonding hydrogels for the electrical stimulation of infected chronic wounds
Authors: Wu Ye , Lu Yuhui , Wu Can , Chen Jiali , Ning Ning , Yang Zeyu , Guo Yi , Zhang Jieyu , Hu Xuefeng , Wang Yunbing
Published: August 2021

Polyaniline provides skin-mimic electrical conductivity and functionalized quaternary ammonium groups show intense antimicrobial activity. Electrical stimulation using conductive hydrogels shows great promise for chronic wound treatment.
Étude des mécanismes d'endommagement de deux composites à matrice métallique A356 + 20%SiCp et 2124 + 15%SiCp
Authors: Roger M. , Lu J. , Lai D. , Clavel M. , Lieurade H.P. , Lo S.H.
Published: August 2021

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Nitruration par échange d'ions de l'acier rapide pour outils AISI M2
Authors: Capan Levon , Cimen Omer , Cep Hasan , Oktem Zerrin
Published: August 2021

In this study, AISI M2 high speed tool steel is austenized at 1200°C, cooled in air and then double tempered at 540°C. Hardened samples are hold at the ion nitriding furnace between 500-540°C for different times. Hardened and nitrided samples were investigated for the surface structures using X-ray, microstructure of nitride layers and the hardness measurements were done. The hardness of steel surface and diffusion depth increase due to the increasing of nitriding time.
Wirksamkeit und Sicherheit von Home-Treatment in der Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie: Eine systematische Literaturübersicht
Authors: Zechmeister-Koss Ingrid , Grössmann Nicole , Wolf Sarah
Published: August 2021

Ziel der Studie In der Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie gewinnt aufgrund limitierter stationärer Versorgungskapazitäten sowie sich verändernden Behandlungsphilosophien das Home-Treatment an Bedeutung. Die Arbeit untersucht dessen Wirksamkeit und Sicherheit.

Methodik Es wurde eine systematische Literaturrecherche durchgeführt und die Home-Treatment-Modelleigenschaften sowie die Evidenz zu Nutzen und Risiken im Vergleich zu institutionellen Behandlungsalternativen narrativ zusammengefasst.

Ergebnisse In den 6 identifizierten Studien wurden sowohl beim Home-Treatment als auch bei stationär Behandelten Symptomverbesserungen festgestellt. Langfristig scheint das Home-Treatment etwas überlegen und mit weniger Krankenhaustagen verbunden zu sein. Ein Best-practice-Modell kann nicht abgeleitet werden.

Schlussfolgerungen Home-Treatment kann als Alternative zu stationärer Behandlung in Betracht gezogen werden, erfordert jedoch Koordinierung mit anderen Versorgungselementen und weitere Evaluation.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak after Transsphenoidal Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Slot Emma M.H. , Sabaoglu Rengin , Voormolen Eduard H.J. , Hoving Eelco W. , van Doormaal Tristan P.C.
Published: August 2021

Background Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak is widely recognized as a challenging and commonly occurring postoperative complication of transsphenoidal surgery (TSS).

The primary objective of this study is to benchmark the current prevalence of CSF leak after TSS in the adult population.

Methods The authors followed the PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for articles reporting CSF leak after TSS in the adult population. Meta-analysis was performed using the Untransformed Proportion metric in OpenMetaAnalyst. For two between-group comparisons a generalized linear mixed model was applied.

Results We identified 2,408 articles through the database search, of which 70, published since 2015, were included in this systematic review. These studies yielded 24,979 patients who underwent a total of 25,034 transsphenoidal surgeries. The overall prevalence of postoperative CSF leak was 3.4% (95% confidence interval or CI 2.8–4.0%). The prevalence of CSF leak found in patients undergoing pituitary adenoma resection was 3.2% (95% CI 2.5–4.2%), whereas patients who underwent TSS for another indication had a CSF leak prevalence rate of 7.1% (95% CI 3.0–15.7%) (odds ratio [OR] 2.3, 95% CI 0.9–5.7). Patients with cavernous sinus invasion (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.1–8.7) and intraoperative CSF leak (OR 5.9, 95% CI 3.8–9.0) have increased risk of postoperative CSF leak. Previous TSS and microscopic surgery are not significantly associated with postoperative CSF leak.

Conclusion The overall recent prevalence of CSF leak after TSS in adults is 3.4%. Intraoperative CSF leak and cavernous sinus invasion appear to be significant risk factors for postoperative CSF leak.
Novel FERMT3 and PTPRQ Mutations Associated with Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency-III and Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Candelaria Gabriela de Toledo Passos , Antunes Alexandre de A. , Pastorino Antonio C. , Dorna Mayra de B. , Zanardo Evelin A. , Dias Alexandre T. , Sugayama Sofia M. M. , Odone-Filho Vicente , Kulikowski Leslie D. , Garanito Marlene P.
Published: August 2021

Leukocyte adhesion deficiency-III (LAD-III) is a rare genetic disease caused by defective integrin activation in hematopoietic cells due to mutations in the FERMT3 gene. The PTPRQ gene encodes the protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor Q and is essential for the normal maturation and function of hair bundle in the cochlea. Homozygous PTPRQ mutations impair the stereocilia in hair cells which lead to nonsyndromic sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) with vestibular dysfunction. Here, we report two novel pathogenic homozygous mutations found in two genes, FERMT3 and PTPRQ, in a Brazilian patient with LAD-III and SNHL, which may develop our understanding of the phenotype–genotype correlation and prognosis of patients with these rare diseases.
Evolution of Cavitary Lesion in a Case of COVID-19 Pneumonia: A Rare Entity
Authors: Behera Debasis , Subhankar Saswat , Venkataram Rajesh , Jagaty Suman Kumar , Rao C. M. , Behera Ruchi Rekha , Rout Pragyan
Published: August 2021

Introduction Toward the end of 2019, a novel coronavirus was identified as the causative organism of a cluster of pneumonia cases in Wuhan, China, spreading rapidly resulting in an epidemic throughout China, followed by a global pandemic. The initial radiological findings of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia at the early stage on a computed tomography (CT) scan include multiple small patchy shadows and interstitial inflammation, predominantly distributed in the peripheral one-third of the lungs. Gradually, it develops into multiple ground glass opacities and infiltrates in the lungs. Furthermore, pulmonary consolidation is observed, but pleural effusion is rare.

Objective From time of presentation to complete recovery, CT scans show significant morphological changes in the lesions, but very few literatures have reported cavitary lesion in the lungs. We present the case of a 64-year-old patient with COVID-19 pneumonia who had typical manifestations of the disease on a CT scan along with constantly changing small cavity in the lung.

Discussion Delayed cavitation is a rarely described radiological manifestation of COVID-19. Atypical presentations of COVID-19 raise possibility of other infections or additional diagnoses. Bacterial and fungal infection should be excluded, as well as cavity-causing organisms. Although the proper mechanism of cavitation in COVID-19 pneumonia is not known, it may be due to intra- alveolar hemorrhage, diffuse alveolar damage, and necrosis of parenchymal cells based on findings of autopsy reports. Early and late complications associated with COVID-19 are yet to be defined.

Conclusion Common causes of cavitary lesions must be investigated properly in all patients. Most cases are self-limited hence managed conservatively. The clinical spectrum of disease due to COVID-19 continues to evolve. Physicians must be aware of evolving radiological findings of COVID-19 and must conduct regular follow-up of convalescent patients with COVID-19 to ensure complete recovery.
Risk assessment of airborne COVID-19 exposure in social settings
Authors: Ooi Chin Chun , Suwardi Ady , Ou Yang Zhong Liang , Xu George , Tan Chee Kiang Ivan , Daniel Dan , Li Hongying , Ge Zhengwei , Leong Fong Yew , Marimuthu Kalisvar , Ng Oon Tek , Lim Shin Bin , Lim Peter , Mak Wai Siong , Cheong Wun Chet Davy , Loh Xian Jun , Kang Chang Wei , Lim Keng Hui
Published: August 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to many countries oscillating between various states of lock-down as they seek to balance keeping the economy and essential services running and minimizing the risk of further transmission. Decisions are made about which activities to keep open across a range of social settings and venues guided only by ad hoc heuristics regarding social distancing and personal hygiene. Hence, we propose the dual use of computational fluid dynamic simulations and surrogate aerosol measurements for location-specific assessment of risk of infection across different real-world settings. We propose a 3-tiered risk assessment scheme to facilitate classification of scenarios into risk levels based on simulations and experiments. Threshold values of <54 and >840 viral copies and <5% and >40% of original aerosol concentration are chosen to stratify low, medium, and high risk. This can help prioritize allowable activities and guide implementation of phased lockdowns or re-opening. Using a public bus in Singapore as a case study, we evaluate the relative risk of infection across scenarios such as different activities and passenger positions and demonstrate the effectiveness of our risk assessment methodology as a simple and easily interpretable framework. For example, this study revealed that the bus's air-conditioning greatly influences dispersion and increases the risk of certain seats and that talking can result in similar relative risk to coughing for passengers around an infected person. Both numerical and experimental approaches show similar relative risk levels with a Spearman's correlation coefficient of 0.74 despite differing observables, demonstrating applicability of this risk assessment methodology to other scenarios.
Deciphering the dual emission in the photoluminescence of Au14Cd(SR)12: A theoretical study using TDDFT and TDDFT + TB
Authors: Havenridge Shana , Aikens Christine M.
Published: August 2021

Determining excited state processes for small nanoclusters, specifically gold, aids in our ability to fine-tune luminescent materials and optical devices. Using TDDFT and TDDFT + TB, we present a detailed theoretical explanation for the dual emission peaks displayed in Au14Cd(S-Adm)12 (Adm = adamantane). As dual emission is relatively rare, we decipher whether the mechanism originates from two different excited states or from two different minima on the same excited state surface. This unique mechanism, which proposes that the dual emission results from two minima on the first excited state, stems from geometrical changes in the bi-tetrahedron core during the emission process.
Background measurement methods for opacity experiments conducted at the Z facility
Authors: Dunham G. S. , Nagayama T. , Bailey J. E. , Loisel G. P.
Published: August 2021

Laboratory experiments typically test opacity models by measuring spectrally resolved transmission of a sample using bright backlight radiation. A potential problem is that any unaccounted background signal contaminating the spectrum will artificially reduce the inferred opacity. Methods developed to measure background signals in opacity experiments at the Sandia Z facility are discussed. Preliminary measurements indicate that backgrounds are 9%–11% of the backlight signal at wavelengths less than 10 Å. Background is thus a relatively modest correction for all Z opacity data published to date. Future work will determine how important background is at longer wavelengths.
Steady azimuthal flow field induced by a rotating sphere near a rigid disk or inside a gap between two coaxially positioned rigid disks
Authors: Daddi-Moussa-Ider Abdallah , Sprenger Alexander R. , Richter Thomas , Löwen Hartmut , Menzel Andreas M.
Published: August 2021

Geometric confinements play an important role in many physical and biological processes and significantly affect the rheology and behavior of colloidal suspensions at low Reynolds numbers. On the basis of the linear Stokes equations, we investigate theoretically and computationally the viscous azimuthal flow induced by the slow rotation of a small spherical particle located in the vicinity of a rigid no-slip disk or inside a gap between two coaxially positioned rigid no-slip disks of the same radius. We formulate the solution of the hydrodynamic problem as a mixed-boundary-value problem in the whole fluid domain, which we subsequently transform into a system of dual integral equations. Near a stationary disk, we show that the resulting integral equation can be reduced into an elementary Abel integral equation that admits a unique analytical solution. Between two coaxially positioned stationary disks, we demonstrate that the flow problem can be transformed into a system of two Fredholm integral equations of the first kind. The latter are solved by means of numerical approaches. Using our solution, we further investigate the effect of the disks on the slow rotational motion of a colloidal particle and provide expressions of the hydrodynamic mobility as a function of the system geometry. We compare our results with corresponding finite-element simulations and observe very good agreement.
Topological braiding and virtual particles on the cell membrane
Authors: Liu Jinghui , Totz Jan F. , Miller Pearson W. , Hastewell Alasdair D. , Chao Yu-Chen , Dunkel Jörn , Fakhri Nikta
Published: August 2021

Significance

Topological defects are robust particle-like structures that essentially determine the mechanics and dynamics of physical and biological matter. Examples range from vortices in quantum superfluids to the cores of spiral wave patterns in the brain. In biological systems, such defects play important roles as organizers of biochemical signaling patterns, cellular forces, and even cell death. Combining direct experimental observations with mathematical modeling and chemical perturbations, we investigated the dynamics of spiral wave defects on the surfaces of starfish egg cells. Our quantitative analysis showed that these defects exhibit complex braiding, pair creation, and annihilation dynamics, in agreement with predictions from a generic continuum theory. More broadly, these results suggest interesting parallels between information transport in living and quantum systems.
Wnt signaling recruits KIF2A to the spindle to ensure chromosome congression and alignment during mitosis
Authors: Bufe Anja , García del Arco Ana , Hennecke Magdalena , de Jaime-Soguero Anchel , Ostermaier Matthias , Lin Yu-Chih , Ciprianidis Anja , Hattemer Janina , Engel Ulrike , Beli Petra , Bastians Holger , Acebrón Sergio P.
Published: August 2021

Significance

Wnt signaling plays essential roles in embryonic patterning, stem cell renewal, and cell cycle progression from G1 to S phase via the regulation of β-catenin target genes. Here, we show that Wnt signaling also promotes timely execution of mitosis. We demonstrate that the Wnt signaling transducer Dishevelled recruits the mitotic kinesin KIF2A and mediates its binding to the mitotic spindle. KIF2A is a microtubule depolymerase that controls chromosome alignment and congression during mitosis. Consequently, we found that inhibition of Wnt signaling leads to KIF2A-dependent chromosome congression and alignment delay in somatic and pluripotent stem cells.
The impact of one’s response to the teacher’s feedback on the same person’s and the partner’s learning in paired writing
Authors: Yamashita Taichi
Published: August 2021

The present study investigated the relationship between one dyad member’s revision in response to written corrective feedback (CF) and the same person’s learning and the other dyad member’s learning during collaborative writing. Twenty-eight English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) students at an American university were paired up and collaborated on two animation description tasks in Google Docs while receiving the researcher’s written CF on their errors on the indefinite and definite articles. Learners worked individually on an animation description task one week prior to the written CF treatment (pretest), immediately after the treatment (posttest), and two weeks after (delayed posttest). When pretest score and CF frequency were controlled for, the number of one’s revisions was not related to the same person’s or the partner’s posttest score. However, the number of one’s revisions was significantly positively related to the same learner’s delayed posttest score, but not to the partner’s delayed posttest score.
HAMLET
Authors: Rigouts Terryn Ayla , Hoste Véronique , Lefever Els
Published: August 2021

Automatic term extraction (ATE) is an important task within natural language processing, both separately, and as a preprocessing step for other tasks. In recent years, research has moved far beyond the traditional hybrid approach where candidate terms are extracted based on part-of-speech patterns and filtered and sorted with statistical termhood and unithood measures. While there has been an explosion of different types of features and algorithms, including machine learning methodologies, some of the fundamental problems remain unsolved, such as the ambiguous nature of the concept “term”. This has been a hurdle in the creation of data for ATE, meaning that datasets for both training and testing are scarce, and system evaluations are often limited and rarely cover multiple languages and domains. The ACTER Annotated Corpora for Term Extraction Research contain manual term annotations in four domains and three languages and have been used to investigate a supervised machine learning approach for ATE, using a binary random forest classifier with multiple types of features. The resulting system (HAMLET Hybrid Adaptable Machine Learning approach to Extract Terminology) provides detailed insights into its strengths and weaknesses. It highlights a certain unpredictability as an important drawback of machine learning methodologies, but also shows how the system appears to have learnt a robust definition of terms, producing results that are state-of-the-art, and contain few errors that are not (part of) terms in any way. Both the amount and the relevance of the training data have a substantial effect on results, and by varying the training data, it appears to be possible to adapt the system to various desired outputs, e.g., different types of terms. While certain issues remain difficult – such as the extraction of rare terms and multiword terms – this study shows how supervised machine learning is a promising methodology for ATE.
Almost sure invariance principle for random dynamical systems via Gouëzel's approach
Authors: Dragičević D. , Hafouta Y
Published: August 2021

We extend the spectral approach of S Gouëzel for the vector-valued almost sure invariance principle (ASIP) to certain classes of non-stationary sequences with a weaker control over the behaviour of the covariance matrices, assuming only linear growth. Then we apply this extension to obtain a quenched vector-valued ASIP for random perturbations of a fixed Anosov diffeomorphism as well as random perturbations of a billiard map associated to the periodic Lorentz gas. We also consider certain classes of random piecewise expanding maps.
Enhancing magnetic pinning by BaZrO3nanorods forming coherent interface by strain-directed Ca-doping in YBa2Cu3O7−xnanocomposite films
Authors: Ogunjimi Victor , Sebastian Mary Ann , Zhang Di , Gautam Bibek , Jian Jie , Huang Jijie , Zhang Yifan , Haugan Timothy , Wang Haiyan , Wu Judy
Published: August 2021

BaZrO3(BZO) one-dimensional artificial pinning centers (1D-APCs) aligned along thec-axis of the YBa2Cu3O7(YBCO) have been adopted to enhance the magnetic vortex pinning in BZO/YBCO nanocomposite films. However, the pinning force densityFpof the BZO 1D-APCs remains moderate at temperatures near 77 K. A hypothesis of the major limiting factor is the defective BZO 1D-APCs/YBCO interface as a direct consequence of the large interfacial strain originated from the BZO/YBCO lattice mismatch of ∼7.7%. Herein, we explore enlarging thec-axis of the YBCO dynamically to reduce the lattice mismatch and hence to prevent formation of the defective BZO 1D-APCs/YBCO interface. Specifically, thec-axis enlargement was achieved by partial replacement of Cu with Ca on the YBCO lattice using strain-directed Ca diffusion into YBCO from two Ca0.3Y0.7Ba2Cu3O7−x(CaY-123) spacers of only 10 nm in thickness inserted into the 2 vol% BZO 1D-APC/YBCO nanocomposite thin films of ∼150 nm in total thickness. The achieved elongatedc-axis is attributed to the formation of stacking faults induced by Ca-replacement of Cu on YBCO lattice. The reduced BZO/YBCO lattice mismatch allows formation of a coherent BZO 1D-APC/YBCO interface with negligible defects. This leads to an enhancedFpvalue up to 98 GN m−3at 65 K, which is 70% higher than that of the reference 2 vol% BZO 1D-APC/YBCO sample. Furthermore, the benefit of the enhanced pinning of the BZO 1D-APCs with a coherent interface with YBCO can be extended to a large angular range of the magnetic field orientation. This study reveals the significant effect of the BZO/YBCO interface on the pinning efficiency of BZO 1D-APCs and provides a promising approach to achieve a coherent interface in BZO/YBCO nanocomposite films.
Ultrafast sub-nanometer matter-wave temporal Talbot effect
Authors: García-Cabrera Ana , Hernández-García Carlos , Plaja Luis
Published: August 2021

The coherent manipulation of the electron wavefunction at the atomic spatial and temporal scales is the fundamental breakthrough underlying far-reaching ultrafast phenomena as high-order harmonic radiation and attosecond pulse generation. In this work, we present a next step in the coherent control of matter waves by translating the concept of Talbot interferometry to the subnanomenter–femtosecond realm. We study the high-harmonic emission from a periodic system irradiated by an intense mid-infrared laser beam at grazing incidence. Our calculations show that Bloch electrons, once ionized, follow a sequence of ultrafast (femtosecond) revivals associated with the temporal Talbot effect. We demonstrate that these revivals leave a distinct signature in the high-frequency harmonic spectrum, in the form of structures extending beyond the main spectral cutoff, toward the x-rays. The reinterpretation of the process of high-order harmonic generation as the temporal realization of a Talbot–Lau interferometer suggests high-harmonic spectroscopy as an appropriate scheme to develop subnanometer ultrafast Talbot interferometry.
Efficient laser-driven proton and bremsstrahlung generation from cluster-assembled foam targets
Authors: Prencipe Irene , Metzkes-Ng Josefine , Pazzaglia Andrea , Bernert Constantin , Dellasega David , Fedeli Luca , Formenti Arianna , Garten Marco , Kluge Thomas , Kraft Stephan , Garcia Alejandro Laso , Maffini Alessandro , Obst-Huebl Lieselotte , Rehwald Martin , Sobiella Manfred , Zeil Karl , Schramm Ulrich , Cowan Thomas E. , Passoni Matteo
Published: August 2021

The interaction between intense 30 fs laser pulses and foam-coated 1.5 μm-thick Al foils in the relativistic regime (up to 5 × 1020 W cm−2) is studied to optimize the laser energy conversion into laser-accelerated protons. A significant enhancement is observed for foam targets in terms of proton cut-off energy (18.5 MeV) and number of protons above 4.7 MeV (4 × 109 protons/shot) with respect to uncoated foils (9.5 MeV, 1 × 109 protons/shot), together with a sixfold increase in the bremsstrahlung yield. This enhancement is attributed to increased laser absorption and electron generation in the foam meso- and nanostructure.
Diversification within ploidy-variable Balkan endemicCerastium decalvans(Caryophyllaceae) reconstructed based on genetic, morphological and ecological evidence
Authors: Niketić Marjan , Đurović Sanja Z , Tomović Gordana , Schönswetter Peter , Frajman Božo
Published: August 2021

The Balkan Peninsula is a hotspot of European biodiversity, harbouring many endemic species. Cerastium decalvans is a heteroploid species endemic to mountainous areas throughout the Balkan Peninsula. It is morphologically extremely variable, and multiple infraspecific taxa have been described. Mostly tetra-, octo- and hexadecaploids have been reported, but their distribution and relationship to morphological differentiation remain unknown. To disentangle relationships among 62 populations sampled across the distribution of the species, we applied an integrative approach. Using flow cytometry, we show that tetraploids are the most widespread cytotype, whereas octoploids are limited to the south-east of the distribution area and hexadecaploids occur mostly in high mountains of the central–eastern Balkan Peninsula. The main genetic break revealed by AFLPs separates uniformly tetraploid populations from the Dinaric Mountains in the north-west of the distribution area from the south-eastern populations. Based on our data we hypothesize multiple (auto)polyploidization events leading to the origin of octoploid populations and two allopolyploidization events leading to the origin of hexadecaploids. By combining genome size, AFLP and morphological data, we suggest recognition of five subspecies, of which we here describe hexadecaploid C. decalvans subsp. doerfleri subsp. nov. endemic to the Albanian Alps. In addition, the presence of several phylogenetic lineages and multiple ploidies with pronounced morphological variability in the southern and eastern Balkan Peninsula points to pronounced environmental stability of this area throughout the Quaternary, enabling survival and divergence in situ, and further supports the role of the Balkans as a sanctuary of plant diversification.
Chemosensory Dysfunctions Induced by COVID-19 Can Persist up to 7 Months: A Study of Over 700 Healthcare Workers
Authors: Bussière Nicholas , Mei Jie , Lévesque-Boissonneault Cindy , Blais Mathieu , Carazo Sara , Gros-Louis Francois , De Serres Gaston , Dupré Nicolas , Frasnelli Johannes
Published: August 2021

Several studies have revealed either self-reported chemosensory alterations in large groups or objective quantified chemosensory impairments in smaller populations of patients diagnosed with COVID-19. However, due to the great variability in published results regarding COVID-19-induced chemosensory impairments and their follow-up, prognosis for chemosensory functions in patients with such complaints remains unclear. Our objective is to describe the various chemosensory alterations associated with COVID-19 and their prevalence and evolution after infection. A cross-sectional study of 704 healthcare workers with a RT–PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection between 2020 February 28 and 2020 June 14 was conducted 3–7 months after onset of symptoms. Data were collected with an online questionnaire. Outcomes included differences in reported chemosensory self-assessment of olfactory, gustatory, and trigeminal functions across time points and Chemosensory Perception Test scores from an easy-to-use at-home self-administered chemosensory test. Among the 704 participants, 593 (84.2%) were women, the mean (SD) age was 42 (12) years, and the questionnaire was answered on average 4.8 (0.8) months after COVID-19. During COVID-19, a decrease in olfactory, gustatory, and trigeminal sensitivities was reported by 81.3%, 81.5%, and 48.0%, respectively. Three to 7 months later, reduced sensitivity was still reported by 52.0%, 41.9%, and 23.3%, respectively. Chemosensory Perception Test scores indicate that 19.5% of participants had objective olfactory impairment. These data suggest a significant proportion of COVID-19 cases have persistent chemosensory impairments at 3–7 months after their infection, but the majority of those who had completely lost their olfactory, gustatory, and trigeminal sensitivities have improved.
Innate and adaptive immunity: the understudied driving force of heart valve disease
Authors: Bartoli-Leonard Francesca , Zimmer Jonas , Aikawa Elena
Published: August 2021

Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD), and its clinical manifestation that is calcific aortic valve stenosis, is the leading cause for valve disease within the developed world, with no current pharmacological treatment available to delay or halt its progression. Characterized by progressive fibrotic remodelling and subsequent pathogenic mineralization of the valve leaflets, valve disease affects 2.5% of the western population, thus highlighting the need for urgent intervention. Whilst the pathobiology of valve disease is complex, involving genetic factors, lipid infiltration, and oxidative damage, the immune system is now being accepted to play a crucial role in pathogenesis and disease continuation. No longer considered a passive degenerative disease, CAVD is understood to be an active inflammatory process, involving a multitude of pro-inflammatory mechanisms, with both the adaptive and the innate immune system underpinning these complex mechanisms. Within the valve, 15% of cells evolve from haemopoietic origin, and this number greatly expands following inflammation, as macrophages, T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, and innate immune cells infiltrate the valve, promoting further inflammation. Whether chronic immune infiltration or pathogenic clonal expansion of immune cells within the valve or a combination of the two is responsible for disease progression, it is clear that greater understanding of the immune systems role in valve disease is required to inform future treatment strategies for control of CAVD development.
Teacher Coaching: Increasing Deaf Students’ Active Engagement Through Flexible Instructional Arrangements
Authors: Catalano Jennifer , Weirick Whitney , Hasko Janna , Antia Shirin
Published: August 2021

The study examined the effects of a coaching intervention on teachers’ ability to implement academically responsive instruction through flexible instructional arrangements in self-contained classrooms for students who are deaf and hard of hearing, as well as the impact of instructional arrangements on students’ academic engagement. Using a changing criterion design replicated across teachers, three-teacher participants with diverse backgrounds received differentiated coaching to implement flexible instructional arrangements. Results showed that coaching had an impact on all three teachers’ implementation of flexible instructional arrangements. Concomitantly, students increased their active engagement and decreased passive engagement when they spent less time in whole class and more time in small group and child-managed arrangements. Teachers maintained the use of flexible instructional arrangements and students continued to be more actively engaged than pre-intervention. Limitations and implications for practice and research are discussed.
His-optimized cardiac resynchronization therapy in a patient with heart failure and right bundle branch block: a case report
Authors: Volkov Dmytro , Lopin Dmytro , Rybchynskyi Stanislav , Skoryi Dmytro
Published: August 2021

Background 

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an option for treatment for chronic heart failure (HF) associated with left bundle branch block (LBBB). Patients with HF and right bundle branch block (RBBB) have potentially worse outcomes in comparison to LBBB. Traditional CRT in RBBB can increase mortality and HF deterioration rates over native disease progression. His bundle pacing may improve the results of CRT in those patients. Furthermore, atrioventricular node ablation (AVNA) for rate control in atrial fibrillation (AF) can be challenging in patients with previously implanted leads in His region.

Case summary 

We report the case of 74-year-old gentleman with a 5-year history of HF, permanent AF with a rapid ventricular response, and RBBB. He was admitted to the hospital with complaints of severe weakness and shortness of breath. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was decreased (41%), right ventricle (RV) was dilated (41 mm), and QRS was prolonged (200 ms) with RBBB morphology. The patient underwent His-optimized CRT with further left-sided AVNA. As a result, LVEF increased to 51%, RV dimensions decreased to 35 mm with an improvement of the clinical status during a 6-month follow-up.

Discussion 

Patients with AF, RBBB, and HF represent the least evaluated clinical subgroup of individuals with less beneficial clinical outcomes according to CRT studies. Achieving the most effective resynchronization could require pacing fusion from sites beyond traditional with the intention to recruit intrinsic conduction pathways. This approach can be favourable for reducing RV dilatation, improving LVEF, and maximizing electrical resynchronization.
A case series of skin manifestations of infective endocarditis in contemporary era: just another book finding or a useful clinical sign?
Authors: Gogos Christos , Moschovidis Vasileios , Adamopoulos Chris , Trigoni Anastasia , Styliadis Ioannis , Sachpekidis Vasileios
Published: August 2021

Background

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a disease of high morbidity and mortality. Infective endocarditis rarely involves skin manifestations in the contemporary era. The identification of typical skin lesions could be helpful in establishing early diagnosis of IE.

Case summary

We present four cases of IE hospitalized in our institution within a 12-month period. All patients were young and had skin manifestations on initial presentation (petechiae, splinter haemorrhages, Janeway lesions, and Osler’s nodes), which led to a high clinical suspicion of IE confirmed by echocardiography and positive blood cultures. All cases had a complicated course. One patient died and the other three had prolonged hospital stay due to variable complications.

Discussion

Clinicians should always assess for skin manifestations in patients with fever especially when suspicion of IE is high. Occurrence of skin lesions in the course of IE may be associated with higher rate of complications and worse prognosis.