bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing the attainment of major motor milestones in CDKL5 deficiency disorder
Authors: Wong Kingsley , Junaid Mohammed , Demarest Scott , Saldaris Jacinta , Benke Tim A. , Marsh Eric D. , Downs Jenny , Leonard Helen
Published: August 2022

This study investigated the influence of factors at birth and in infancy on the likelihood of achieving major motor milestones in CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder (CDD). Data on 350 individuals with a pathogenicCDKL5variant was sourced from the International CDKL5 Disorder Database. A first model included factors available at birth (e.g., sex, variant group and mosaicism) and the second additionally included factors available during infancy (e.g., age at seizure onset, number of anti-seizure medications used, experience of a honeymoon period and formal therapy). Cox regression was used to model the time to achieve the milestones. The probability of attaining the outcomes at specific ages was estimated by evaluating the time-to-event function at specific covariate values. Independent sitting and walking were achieved by 177/350 and 57/325 children respectively. By seven years of age, 67.1% of females but only 37.3% of males could sit independently. About a quarter each of females and males achieved independent walking by eight and six years, respectively. When observed from birth, female gender, a late truncating variant and mosaicism impacted most positively on the likelihood of independent sitting. When observed from one year, later seizure onset and experiencing a honeymoon period also improved the likelihood of independent sitting. Factors that favoured sitting (except gender) also improved walking. Having a truncating variant between aa178 and aa781 reduced the likelihood of achieving independent sitting and walking. It is possible to utilise factors occurring early in life to inform the likelihood of future motor development in CDD.
Strenuous exercise-tolerance stretchable dry electrodes for continuous multi-channel electrophysiological monitoring
Authors: Xie Ruijie , Li Qingsong , Teng Lijun , Cao Zhengshuai , Han Fei , Tian Qiong , Sun Jing , Zhao Yang , Yu Mei , Qi Dianpeng , Guo Peizhi , Li Guanglin , Huo Fengwei , Liu Zhiyuan
Published: August 2022

Electrophysiological monitoring under strenuous exercise by using stretchable dry electrodes is vital for healthcare monitoring, prosthetic control, human−machine interfaces and other biomedical applications. However, the existing dry electrodes are not applicable to the strenuous exercise situation that always involves both fast moving and profuse sweating. Herein, we present a nano-thick porous stretchable dry electrode system with high stretchability and water permeability. The system attaches conformably to the skin and stretches with it under Van der Waals forces even at sweating conditions, allowing the detection of electromyogram when moving with an acceleration of 10 g at a sweating rate of 2.8 mg cm−2 min−1. It is also capable of acquiring electrocardiogram and electroencephalogram signals. The strategy proposed would enable the biomedical studies and related applications with the requirement of stably recording electrophysiological signals under strenuous exercise scenarios.
Structure of CRL7FBXW8 reveals coupling with CUL1–RBX1/ROC1 for multi-cullin-RING E3-catalyzed ubiquitin ligation
Authors: Hopf Linus V. M. , Baek Kheewoong , Klügel Maren , von Gronau Susanne , Xiong Yue , Schulman Brenda A.
Published: August 2022

Most cullin-RING ubiquitin ligases (CRLs) form homologous assemblies between a neddylated cullin-RING catalytic module and a variable substrate-binding receptor (for example, an F-box protein). However, the vertebrate-specific CRL7FBXW8 is of interest because it eludes existing models, yet its constituent cullin CUL7 and F-box protein FBXW8 are essential for development, and CUL7 mutations cause 3M syndrome. In this study, cryo-EM and biochemical analyses reveal the CRL7FBXW8 assembly. CUL7’s exclusivity for FBXW8 among all F-box proteins is explained by its unique F-box-independent binding mode. In CRL7FBXW8, the RBX1 (also known as ROC1) RING domain is constrained in an orientation incompatible with binding E2~NEDD8 or E2~ubiquitin intermediates. Accordingly, purified recombinant CRL7FBXW8 lacks auto-neddylation and ubiquitination activities. Instead, our data indicate that CRL7 serves as a substrate receptor linked via SKP1–FBXW8 to a neddylated CUL1–RBX1 catalytic module mediating ubiquitination. The structure reveals a distinctive CRL–CRL partnership, and provides a framework for understanding CUL7 assemblies safeguarding human health.
Visual and refractive outcomes of new intraocular lens implantation after cataract surgery
Authors: Singh Bhupesh , Sharma Sourabh , Bharti Neha , Samantrey Dharitri , Paandey Dadan J. , Bharti Sudhank
Published: August 2022

To report the visual and refractive outcomes of new aspheric hydrophobic acrylic monofocal intraocular lens (IOL). Retrospective case series. This study included eyes of patients who underwent routine cataract surgery for uncomplicated age-related cataract with implantation of a Aktis SP (NS-60YG; Nidek Co. Ltd., Japan) IOL and attended regular follow ups at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 12 months. At each post-operative visit, ophthalmological evaluation included measurement Uncorrected (UCVA) and Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), contrast sensitivity, posterior capsular opacification (PCO), optical aberrations, analysis of point spread function (PSF) and modulation transfer function (MTF). The study included 2102 eyes of 1358 patients aged 45 to 75 years (mean age 62.6 years ± 5.6 SD). The mean preoperative BCVA was 0.56 ± 0.26 logMAR. At 1 year follow up, the mean postoperative UCVA and BCVA were 0.11 ± 0.09 and 0.02 ± 0.03 logMAR, respectively. At the end of 6 months, around 1487 (93%) eyes had BCVA of 20/20 and better than 20/30 in 100% of the eyes. Mild posterior capsule opacification (PCO) was observed in 56 patients, but none required Nd YAG laser capsulotomy. There was reduction in ocular spherical aberration and Higher order aberrations (HOAs) as compared to pre operative. This explains better contrast sensitivity obtained by MTF and PSF values. The study shows that the Aktis SP IOL is safe, effective, and stable lens that could be inserted through 2.2 mm incision with satisfactory visual and refractive outcomes, even in late post-operative period.
A highly compact Fabry Perot cavity-based MIMO antenna with decorrelated fields
Authors: Illahi M. Umair , Khan Muhammad U. , Hussain Rifaqat , Tahir Farooq A.
Published: August 2022

This work presents the design of a low profile Fabry-Perot cavity-based multiple-input-multiple-output antenna with low correlation coefficient. The fields of closely placed antenna elements are tilted by using a phase-gradient partially reflective surface (PRS), thereby decreasing the correlation coefficient. The PRS is designed in such a way that its reflection phase is complementary to that of the ground plane. The PRS decorrelates the fields of the two radiating elements when placed at a height of λ/10 above them resulting in a reduction of the correlation coefficient by almost 95% for an isotropic environment. This height is considerably less than λ/4, which has been reported previously.
Rapid-SL identifies synthetic lethal sets with an arbitrary cardinality
Authors: Dehghan Manshadi Mehdi , Setoodeh Payam , Zare Habil
Published: August 2022

The multidrug resistance of numerous pathogenic microorganisms is a serious challenge that raises global healthcare concerns. Multi-target medications and combinatorial therapeutics are much more effective than single-target drugs due to their synergistic impact on the systematic activities of microorganisms. Designing efficient combinatorial therapeutics can benefit from identification of synthetic lethals (SLs). An SL is a set of non-essential targets (i.e., reactions or genes) that prevent the proliferation of a microorganism when they are “knocked out” simultaneously. To facilitate the identification of SLs, we introduce Rapid-SL, a new multimodal implementation of the Fast-SL method, using the depth-first search algorithm. The advantages of Rapid-SL over Fast-SL include: (a) the enumeration of all SLs that have an arbitrary cardinality, (b) a shorter runtime due to search space reduction, (c) embarrassingly parallel computations, and (d) the targeted identification of SLs. Targeted identification is important because the enumeration of higher order SLs demands the examination of too many reaction sets. Accordingly, we present specific applications of Rapid-SL for the efficient targeted identification of SLs. In particular, we found up to 67% of all quadruple SLs by investigating about 1% of the search space. Furthermore, 307 sextuples, 476 septuples, and over 9000 octuples are found for Escherichia coli genome-scale model, iAF1260.
Dogs suppress a pivotal function in the food webs of sandy beaches
Authors: Maslo Brooke , Kwait Robert , Crosby Christian , Holman Price , Zoccolo Isabelle , Kerwin Kathleen , Pover Todd , Schlacher Thomas A.
Published: August 2022

Domestic dogs are the most abundant carnivore globally and have demonstrable negative impacts to wildlife; yet, little evidence regarding their functional roles in natural food webs exists. Adding dogs to food webs may result in a net loss (via suppression of naturally occurring species), net gain (via mesopredator release), or no change (via functional replacement) to ecosystem function. Scavenging is a pivotal function in ecosystems, particularly those that are energetically supported by carrion. Dogs also scavenge on animal carcasses, but whether scavenging by dogs influences the structural and functional properties of food webs remains unclear. Here we used camera traps baited with carrion to test the effect of dogs on the composition and diversity of the vertebrate scavenger guild, as well as carrion detection and consumption rates. We conducted this work in sandy beach ecosystems, which rely on the import of marine organic matter (i.e. stranding of dead marine animals). Diversity of the scavenger community was similar on beaches without dogs. Dogs increased the time it took for carcasses to be detected and decreased the proportion of carrion consumed. This ‘dog suppression effect’ on scavenging was stronger for nocturnal mammalian scavengers, presumably being driven by indirect trait-mediated effects, which raises further questions about the broader ecological consequences of domestic dogs in natural systems.
Impact of lidocaine on hemodynamic and respiratory parameters during laparoscopic appendectomy in children
Authors: Kaszyński Maciej , Stankiewicz Barbara , Pałko Krzysztof Jakub , Darowski Marek , Pągowska-Klimek Izabela
Published: August 2022

We assessed the influence of systemic lidocaine administration on ventilatory and circulatory parameters, and the pneumoperitoneum impact on the cardiopulmonary system during a laparoscopic appendectomy in children. A single-center parallel single-masked randomized controlled study was carried out with 58 patients (3–17 years). Intravenous lidocaine bolus of 1.5 mg/kg over 5 min before induction of anesthesia followed by lidocaine infusion at 1.5 mg/kg/h intraoperatively. Respiratory system compliance (C, C/kg), Ppeak-PEEP and Pulse rate (Pulse), systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure (NBPs, NBPd, NBPm), assessed in the Lidocaine and Control group, at the: beginning (P1), minimum lung compliance (P2) and at the end of surgery (P3) were compared. The respiratory/hemodynamic parameters did not differ between the groups at any stage of operation. Blood Pressure and Ppeak-PEEP were significantly higher at the P2 compared to P1 and P3 stages (P < 0.001, 1 − β ≥ 0.895) that correlated with lung compliance changes: C/kg vs. NBPs and Ppeak-PEEP (− 0.42, − 0.84; P < 0.001); C vs. Pulse and Ppeak-PEEP (− 0.48, − 0.46; P < 0.001). Although an increase in intraabdominal pressure up to 12(15) mmHg causes significant changes in hemodynamic/respiratory parameters, there appears to be no risk of fatal reactions in 1E, 2E ASA patients. Systemic lidocaine administration doesn’t alleviate circulatory/respiratory alterations during pneumoperitoneum. No lidocaine related episode of anaphylaxis, systemic toxicity, circulatory disturbances or neurological impairment occurred.

ClinicalTrials.gov: 22/03/2019.

Trial registration number: NCT03886896.
Cerebrovascular function in tension-type headache and migraine with or without aura: Transcranial Doppler study
Authors: Khedr Eman M. , Abbas Mohammed A. , Gamea Ayman , Sadek Mohamed A. , Zaki Ahmed F.
Published: August 2022

The aim of the current study was to determine whether tension-type headache (TTH) and migraine with or without aura have altered anterior and posterior circulation compared with normal volunteers as assessed by Transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasonography. The study included 24 patients with chronic TTH and 37 patients with migraine (16 with aura and 21 without aura) classified according to the diagnostic criteria of the International Headache Society 2018. They were compared with a control group of 50 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers. Each participant was examined with TCD ultrasonography of the middle, anterior and posterior cerebral and vertebral arteries (MCA, ACA, PCA, and VA) at rest. Patients in the TTH group had a significantly lower peak systolic velocity (PSV) and mean flow velocity (MFV) in the MCA compared with controls, whereas EDV and MFV in the ACA were significantly higher in the migraine without aura group than controls. Within the 3 groups of patients, the TTH group had significantly lower PSV in the MCA and PCA than the group of migraine with aura. In addition, the TTH group had significantly lower PSV and MFV in the MCA and a lower EDV in the VA than migraine patients without aura. In conclusion, the possibility of cerebrovascular changes is confirmed in the present study in both TTH and migraine without aura. The former has a low MFV in the MCA whereas the latter has a high MFV in the ACA.
Influence of suspended inorganic particles (kaolinite) on eggs and larvae of the pelagic shrimp Lucensosergia lucens
Authors: Alam Md. Jahangir , Date Kazuma , Arakawa Hisayuki
Published: August 2022

The pelagic shrimp Lucensosergia lucens is a commercially important species in Japan, predominantly harvested in Suruga Bay. It has been suggested that a marked decrease in the wild population over recent years is associated with an increased concentration of suspended particles. We tested the hypothesis that suspended inorganic particles (kaolinite) negatively affect the hatching ratio of fertilized eggs, and the survival, growth, and metamorphosis of nauplius and elaphocaris larvae. The relative hatching ratio of eggs decreased from 100 to 57.7% at 139 mg L−1 of kaolinite particles. Similarly, the relative survival ratio of nauplius larvae progressively decreased from 100% in filtered seawater to 73.6% after 72 h of exposure to 139 mg L−1 of kaolinite particles. Consequently, the survival ratio of elaphocaris larvae was greatly reduced at high particle concentrations. Exponential growth in the standard lengths of elaphocaris larvae occurred at particle concentrations < 6.9 mg L−1, but growth was inhibited at kaolinite concentrations > 20 mg L−1.
Impact of health literacy on anxiety and depressive symptoms in pregnant women in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Haruyama Yasuo , Miyagi Etsuko , Kobashi Gen , Obata Soichiro , Umazume Takeshi , Yoshimi Asuka , Hishimoto Akitoyo , Kurasawa Kentaro , Suzuki Yukio , Ikeda Tomoaki , Kimura Tadashi , Yamada Hideto
Published: August 2022

To investigate the relationships between communicative and critical health literacy (CCHL) and anxiety and depressive symptoms (ADs) in pregnant women during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. A cross-sectional study was conducted and 5466 pregnant women responded in Japan in September 2020. A Kessler 6 scale (K6) score ≥ 10, an Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score ≥ 13, and four CCHL groups were analyzed using a logistic regression model and trend test. The proportions of pregnant women with a K6 score ≥ 10 and EPDS score ≥ 13 were 13.5 and 15.4%, respectively. In comparisons with the low CCHL group, the adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) for anxiety symptoms was 0.770 (0.604–0.982) in the high CCHL group, while those for depressive symptoms were 0.777 (0.639–0.946), 0.665 (0.537–0.824), and 0.666 (0.529–0.838) in the lower, higher, and high CCHL groups (all p < 0.05), respectively, after adjustments for potential confounding factors, such as age, weeks of gestation, complications, history, number of children, marital status, education, employment, and income. Higher CCHL was associated with significantly lower adjusted odds ratios for anxiety (p for trend = 0.019) and depressive symptoms (p for trend < 0.001). These results suggest a relationship between CCHL and ADs in pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Emotion control training enhances reappraisal success among individuals with reported ADHD symptoms
Authors: Hamerman Revital , Cohen Noga
Published: August 2022

Previous research indicates that training individuals to recruit cognitive control before exposure to negative pictures can facilitate the propensity to use reappraisal and reappraisal success. Individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience difficulties in cognitive control and emotion regulation, so they may especially benefit from such training. Individuals reporting high ADHD symptoms and controls were randomly assigned to one of two training conditions. In the high emotion control (H-EC) training condition, negative pictures were typically preceded by a stimulus that recruits cognitive control. In contrast, in the low emotion control (L-EC) training condition, negative pictures were typically preceded by a stimulus that does not recruit cognitive control. Participants were then asked to recall an adverse personal event and to reappraise the event. As predicted, instructed reappraisal was more effective in reducing negative mood in the H-EC training compared to the L-EC training. Furthermore, compared to controls, individuals with reported ADHD symptoms showed a greater propensity to use reappraisal after writing the event and a more considerable reduction in event significance and negativity following the instructed reappraisal assignment. We argue that employing cognitive control over emotional information has a causal role in reappraisal use and success among individuals with ADHD symptoms.
The association of pericardial fat and peri-aortic fat with severity of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Lee Chun-Wei , Yun Chun-Ho , Huang Wen-Hung , Hung Ta-Chuan , Tsai Cheng-Ting , Kuo Jen-Yuan , Su Cheng-Huang , Cheng Han-En , Hung Chung-Lieh , Hou Charles Jia-Yin
Published: August 2022

Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is associated with central obesity, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. However, the association of body-site specific adiposity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has not been well characterized. We studies 704 consecutive subjects who underwent annual health survey in Taiwan. All subjects have been divided into three groups including normal (341), mild (227) and moderate and severe (136) NAFLD according to ultrasound finding. Pericardial (PCF) and thoracic peri-aortic adipose tissue (TAT) burden was assessed using a non-contrast 16-slice multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) dataset with off-line measurement (Aquarius 3DWorkstation, TeraRecon, SanMateo, CA, USA). We explored the relationship between PCF/TAT, NAFLD and cardiometabolic risk profiles. Patients with moderate and mild NAFLD have greater volume of PCF (100.7 ± 26.3vs. 77.1 ± 21.3 vs. 61.7 ± 21.6 ml, P < 0.001) and TAT (11.2 ± 4.1 vs. 7.6 ± 2.6 vs. 5.5 ± 2.6 ml, P < 0.001) when compared to the normal groups. Both PCF and TAT remained independently associated with NAFLD after counting for age, sex, triglyceride, cholesterol and other cardiometabolic risk factors. In addition, both PCF and TAT provided incremental prediction value for NAFLD diagnosis. (AUROC: 0.85 and 0.87, 95%, confidence interval: 0.82–0.89 and 0.84–0.90). Both visceral adipose tissues strongly correlated with the severity of NAFLD. Compared to PCF, TAT is more tightly associated with NAFLD diagnosis in a large Asian population.
Growth promotion and protective potentials of leaf infusions of Parkia biglobosa, Moringa oleifera and Vernonia amygdalina on Abelmoschus esculentus seeds
Authors: Akpor Oghenerobor B. , Maxwell Marvellous-Mercy , Evbuomwan Ikponmwosa O. , Olaolu Tomilola D. , Adeyonu Abigail G. , Osemwegie Omorefosa O.
Published: August 2022

The germinability and protective potential of leaf infusion of Parkia biglobosa, Moringa oleifera and Vernonia amygdalina leaves on okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) seeds against infections simulated with suspended cells of Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, A. fumigatus, and Penicillium sp. were examined. Prior to planting, the okra seeds were first surface-sterilized in 5% sodium hypochlorite solution before steeping in known concentrations (0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100%) of the respective leaf infusions for a known duration. Seven of the steeped seeds were planted in plastic transparent containers, incubated for 7 days under light, and observed daily. Germination index, germination rate, germination time, and vigor index were calculated for each treatment, using standard procedures. The effective concentrations of the infusions of V. amygdalina, P. biglobosa and M. oleifera were 40, 40, and 60% respectively. Optimum steeping durations in leaf infusions were 1, 5, and 6 h, for P. biglobosa, M. oleifera and V. amygdalina, respectively. All the leaf infusions were observed to protect the okra seeds against infections with the test organisms. Furthermore, seeds steeped in the respective leaf infusions showed remarkably higher germinability potential than the control seeds steeped in water. The study confirmed that the leaf infusions may be attractive as economic alternatives for seed priming and protection.
A rapid and universal liquid chromatograph-mass spectrometry-based platform, refmAb-Q nSMOL, for monitoring monoclonal antibody therapeutics
Authors: Iwamoto Noriko , Koguchi Yoshinobu , Yokoyama Kotoko , Hamada Akinobu , Yonezawa Atsushi , Piening Brian D. , Tran Eric , Fox Bernard A. , Redmond William L. , Shimada Takashi
Published: August 2022

Accurate multiplexed quantitation of unique signature peptides derived from monoclonal antibody therapeutics with a universal reference antibody refmAb-Q using Fab-selective proteolysis nSMOL coupled with LC-MS/MS.
Electrochemical determination of purine and pyrimidine bases using a 1,10-phenanthroline–Fe3O4 nanoparticles–graphene oxide–chitosan nanocomposite
Authors: Karimian Ramin , Afshar Vahid
Published: August 2022

A 1,10-phenanthroline–Fe3O4 nanoparticles–graphene oxide–chitosan nanocomposite was fabricated and used to modify a glassy carbon electrode. Then, the prepared electrode was used as a sensor for simultaneous determination of all nucleobases in DNA.
A nanoplatform for mild-temperature photothermal and type I & II photodynamic therapy in the NIR-II biowindow
Authors: Lu Bing , Zhang Zhecheng , Huang Yuying , Zhang Yuehua , Wang Jin , Ding Yue , Wang Yang , Yao Yong
Published: August 2022

A new strategy for tumor phototherapy based on the combination of mild-temperature photothermal therapy and type I & II photodynamic therapy.
The bimetallic effect promotes the activity of Rh in catalyzed selective hydrogenation of phenol
Authors: Li Shiwei , Zhao Huachao , Ran Wei , Liu Jingfu , Liu Rui
Published: August 2022

Bimetallic Au@Rh catalysts with modulated electronic states by the underlying Au core showed satisfactory performance in the selective hydrogenation of phenols toward cyclohexanones compared with monometallic Rh nanoparticle catalysts.
Correction: Diastereoselective synthesis of tetrahydrobenzo[b]azocines by Lu(OTf)3-catalyzed [4+4] cycloaddition of donor–acceptor cyclobutanes with anthranils
Authors: Hou Meifeng , Li Jiajun , Rao Fucai , Chen Zuliang , Wei Yingjing
Published: August 2022

Correction for ‘Diastereoselective synthesis of tetrahydrobenzo[b]azocines by Lu(OTf)3-catalyzed [4+4] cycloaddition of donor–acceptor cyclobutanes with anthranils’ by Meifeng Hou et al., Chem. Commun., 2022, 58, 5865–5868, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2CC00829G.
Two coordination polymers as multi-responsive luminescent sensors for the detection of UO22+, Cr(vi), and the NFT antibiotic
Authors: Xue Yun-Shan , Sun Dan-Ling , Lv Jun-Qing , Li Shi-Juan , Chen Xuan-Rong , Cheng Wei-Wei , Wu Hong-Xiu , Wang Jun
Published: August 2022

Two CPs have been synthesized using solvothermal method and can act as multi-responsive luminescent probe to detect UO22+ cation, Cr2O72−/CrO42− anions, and nitrofuran antibiotic in aqueous media with high sensitivity and selectivity.
Excited-state photochemistry dynamics of 2-(1-naphthyl) phenol: electronic structure calculations and non-adiabatic dynamics simulations
Authors: Wu Jiahui , Chen Xiaohang , Xia Shu-Hua , Cui Ganglong , Zhang Yan
Published: August 2022

Photochemical reactions with respect to two ESIPT processes to carbon atoms and two quinone methides of (1-naphthyl)phenol were investigated by combining static electronic structure calculations and non-adiabatic dynamics simulations in vacuum.
Making more from bio-based platforms: life cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis of N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone from succinic acid
Authors: Haus Moritz O. , Winter Benedikt , Fleitmann Lorenz , Palkovits Regina , Bardow André
Published: August 2022

Life cycle assessment shows the potential benefits of N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone synthesis from succinic acid. Given the right catalyst, replacing the incumbent fossil technology can be cost-neutral, while slashing CO2 equivalent emissions by 50%.
In situ Ti isotopic analysis by femtosecond laser ablation MC-ICP-MS
Authors: Huang Chao , Wang Hao , Xie Liewen , Nie Nicole X. , Yang Yueheng , Zhao Xinmiao , Li Jin , Tian Heng-Ci , Wu Shitou , Xu Lei , Yang Jinhui
Published: August 2022

Titanium isotopes are emerging as a power tool for studying magmatic processes on the Earth and other planets. In our work, a novel and robust method for in situ Ti isotopic analysis of titanium-bearing minerals was presented by fs-LA-MC-ICP-MS.
Correction: LAPONITE® nanodisk-based platforms for cancer diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Li Gaoming , Guo Yunqi , Guo Rui , Shi Xiangyang , Shen Mingwu
Published: August 2022

Correction for ‘LAPONITE® nanodisk-based platforms for cancer diagnosis and therapy’ by Gaoming Li et al., Mater. Adv., 2022, https://doi.org/10.1039/d2ma00637e.
A highly selective A–π–A “turn-on” fluorescent probe for hypochlorite in tap water
Authors: Cheng Wenshuai , Ren Chunping , Liu Shuang , Jiang Wenshuo , Zhu Xiuna , Jia Wenxuan , Cheng Jianbo , Liu Zhenbo
Published: August 2022

A nitro group-bearing fluorescent probe with the electronic structure of “A–π–A” showed high selectivity and sensitivity for hypochlorite.
Conferring doorman characteristic and superior nano-scratch stability to graphene oxide membranes via tailoring channel microenvironment
Authors: Meng Wenting , Li Nan , Min Chunying , Shi Jie , Zhu Bo , Liu Liangsen , Liu Shengkai , Shao Ruiqi , Xu Zhiwei , Cai Zhijiang
Published: August 2022

Graphene oxide (GO) membranes with doorman characteristic, tunable nanochannel microenvironment and high interfacial adhesion were fabricated.
Evaluation of intracellular distribution of folate functionalized silica nanoparticles using fluorescence and hyperspectral enhanced dark field microscopy
Authors: Miclea Luminita Claudia , Mihailescu Mona , Tarba Nicolae , Brezoiu Ana-Maria , Sandu Ana Maria , Mitran Raul-Augustin , Berger Daniela , Matei Cristian , Moisescu Mihaela Georgeta , Savopol Tudor
Published: August 2022

The uptake and intracellular distribution of nanoparticles, relevant for understanding their cytotoxicity, can be evaluated by enhanced dark field microscopy combined with hyperspectral imagery and 3D reconstructions of fluorescent samples.
Integrating chemistry laboratory–tutorial timetabling with instructional design and the impact on learner perceptions and outcomes
Authors: Lau Poh Nguk , Teow Yiwei , Low Xin Tian Tammy , Tan Shi Ting Bernice
Published: August 2022

For chemistry, where learners are required to integrate experimental observations with theoretical knowledge, laboratory work appears to be a viable instructional strategy. However, research has shown that chemistry laboratory instruction often fails to live up to its potential. The scheduling practice in higher education (HE) separating theory lessons and practical work into temporally disjointed sessions could exacerbate the theory–laboratory disconnect. This paper continues an earlier work, in which integrated schedules of chemistry tutorial and laboratory classes were implemented in two general chemistry courses in a freshman chemical engineering programme. Traditionally separate tutorial and laboratory classes were chained into 3 hour blocks in the experimental classes. Worked examples, group presentations and course materials designed as a merged package to connect theory with practical work were implemented for selected tasks in integrated teaching. Prior ability was measured based on previous titration experience or grades in earlier general chemistry courses. Lesson experiences were collected on the validated Meaningful Learning in the Laboratory Instrument (MLLI) (Galloway and Bretz, 2015). Block (or integrated) and traditional learners performed equally on theory tests, but integrated learners scored higher on a titration skills assessment. The origin of differences in skills performance could not be ascertained conclusively. Perceptions across the MLLI domains declined across schedules, with significant losses in the cognitive domain. MLLI scores did not differ by schedules. There is some evidence favouring stronger theory–laboratory connection from the qualitative MLLI data and the focus group interviews, although cognitive overloading may adversely impact low ability learners. This work showed that block scheduling does not affect the chemistry skills-set equally, which opens the topic for future research. Suggestions for future implementation of chemistry block teaching were also proposed.
Spectroscopic ellipsometry as a route to thermodynamic characterization
Authors: White Ronald P. , Buculei Dragos , Beale Alexia M. J. M. , Goovaerts Ilias , Keddie Joseph L. , Lipson Jane E. G.
Published: August 2022

Crucial data for modelling dynamics and miscibility are reflected in thermal expansivities. Analysis of ten polymer films and correlation with volumetric data show ellipsometry is an effective route.
Topographical biointerface regulating cellular functions for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Zhu Mingyu , Zhang Rui , Mao Zhixiang , Fang Ju , Ren Fuzeng
Published: August 2022

The physiochemical properties of the implant interface significantly influence cell growth, differentiation, cellular matrix deposition, and mineralisation, and eventually, determine the bone regeneration efficiency. Cells directly sense and respond to the physical, chemical, and mechanical cues of the implant surface, and it is increasingly recognized that surface topography can evoke specific cellular responses, conferring biological functions on substrate materials and regulating tissue regeneration. Current progress towards the fundamental understanding of the interplay between the cell and topographical surface has been made by combined advance in fabrication technologies and cell biology. Particularly, the precise fabrication and control of nano/microscale topographies can provide the fundamental knowledge of the mechanotransduction process that governs the cellular response as well as the knowledge of how the specific features drive cells towards a defined differentiation outcome. In this review, we first introduce common techniques and substrate materials for designing and fabricating micro/nano‐topographical surfaces for bone regeneration. We then illustrate the intrinsic relationship of topological cues, cellular signal transduction, and cell functions and fates in osteogenic differentiation. Finally, we discuss the challenges and the future of using topological cues as a cell therapy to direct bone tissue regeneration.
Improving the area of harmonic pollution and vulnerability to voltage sag for compatible and reliable operation of sensitive harmonic loads
Authors: Shakeri Sina , Khajouei Javad , Esmaeili Saeid , Koochi Mohammad Hossein Rezaeian
Published: August 2022

Nowadays, sensitive harmonic loads (SHLs) are being increasingly used in the industrial sector. SHLs generate harmonics and may become disconnected from the network when voltage sags occur at the point of common coupling (PCC). Here, a new approach is proposed to reduce harmonics distortion and establish a more reliable annual operation of SHLs by reducing the area of pollution (AOP) with harmonic and the area of vulnerability (AOV) to voltage sag, respectively. The proposed approach includes an innovative optimization problem for planning passive harmonic filters which is solved by the Non‐dominant Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA‐II) on the basis of historical data of the industrial power grid. By doing so, a solution is obtained in which the costs of passive harmonic filters and financial costs due to grid losses and voltage sags are minimized. In order to assess the new proposed approach, an Iranian large copper mine electrical network equipped with SHLs is used. Results of using the new approach show that total harmonic distortion and grid losses decrease by nearly 80% and 15%, respectively and also, the voltage value at the PCC is improved which can assure the secure operation of SHLs. Moreover, decreased financial losses is obtained since voltage sags are reduced by 65%.
Design and experiments of isolated gate driver using discrete devices for silicon carbide MOSFET
Authors: Jiang Dong , Wang Hanxiang , Wang Ruodong , Liu Zicheng , Liu Yongjiang , Lin Zhenjun , Wan Weiwei
Published: August 2022

The high temperature (HT) characteristics of silicon carbide (SiC) devices enable power electronic converters to operate at higher ambient temperature, and the importance of HT isolated gate drivers is becoming increasingly significant. Compared with the complex silicon on insulator (SOI) HT chips and normal silicon (Si) ICs, the Si‐based discrete devices can well balance the temperature capability and design cost. A feasible isolated gate driver design method is proposed in this paper by using discrete MOSFETs, discrete BJTs and other passive components with consideration of cost and can be with less leakage current than normal integrated circuits. The function of gate driver includes signal isolation and signal amplification. In the signal isolation part, a CMOS‐based isolation circuit is proposed with its merits. In the signal amplification part, normal topologies are improved to get better efficiency and high‐speed capability. SiC power module‐based double pulse test is used to verify the switching performance, and experiments are done to verify the continuous operating capability. The main factors which affect the performance of the proposed isolated gate driver are summarized. This technology provides a novel solution for SiC MOSFET gate driver in HT environment.
The structure of jets launched from post-AGB binary systems
Authors: Bollen D. , Kamath D. , Van Winckel H. , De Marco O. , Verhamme O. , Kluska J. , Wardle M.
Published: August 2022

Context. In this paper, we focus on post-asymptotic giant branch (post-AGB) binaries and study the interaction between the different components of these complex systems. These components comprise the post-AGB primary, a main sequence secondary, a circumbinary disk, as well as a fast bipolar outflow (jet) launched by the companion. We obtained well-sampled time series of high resolution optical spectra over the last decade and these spectra provide the basis of our study.

Aims. We aim to use the time-series data to quantify the velocity and density structure of the jets in nine of these post-AGB binaries. This complements our earlier work and this amounts to the analyses of 16 jet-launching systems in total.

Methods. The jet is detected in absorption, at superior conjunction, when the line of sight towards the primary goes through the bipolar cone. Our spectral time series scan the jets during orbital motion. Our spatio-kinematic model is constrained by these dynamical spectra. We complement this with a radiative-transfer model in which the Balmer series are used to derive total mass-loss rates in the jets.

Results. The jets are found to be wide (> 30°) and display an angle-dependent density structure with a dense and slower outer region near the jet cone and a fast inner part along the jet symmetry axes. The deprojected outflow velocities confirm that the companions are main sequence companions. The total mass-loss rates are large (10−8 − 10−5 M⊙ yr−1), from which we can infer that the mass-accretion rates onto the companion star must be high as well. The circumbinary disk is likely the main source for the accretion disk around the companion. All systems with full disks that start near the sublimation radius show jets, whereas for systems with evolved transition disks this lowers to a detection rate of 50%. Objects without an infrared excess do not show jets.

Conclusions. We conclude that jet creation in post-AGB binaries is a mainstream process. Our geometric spatio-kinematic model is versatile enough to model the variety of spectral time series. The interaction between the circumbinary disks and the central binary provide the needed accretion flow, but the presence of a circumbinary disk does not seem to be the only prerequisite to launch a jet.
Characterising the Apertif primary beam response
Authors: Dénes H. , Hess K. M. , Adams E. A. K. , Kutkin A. , Morganti R. , van der Hulst J. M. , Oosterloo T. A. , Moss V. A. , Adebahr B. , de Blok W. J. G. , Ivashina M. V. , Coolen A. H. W. M. , Damstra S. , Hut B. , Loose G. M. , Lucero D. M. , Maan Y. , Mika Á. , Norden M. J. , Oostrum L. C. , Pisano D. J. , Smits R. , van Cappellen W. A. , van den Brink R. , van der Schuur D. , van Diepen G. N. J. , van Leeuwen J. , Vohl D. , Wijnholds S. J. , Ziemke J.
Published: August 2022

Context. Phased array feeds (PAFs) are multi-element receivers in the focal plane of a telescope that make it possible to simultaneously form multiple beams on the sky by combining the complex gains of the individual antenna elements. Recently, the Westerbork Synthesis Radio Telescope (WSRT) was upgraded with PAF receivers to carry out several observing programs, including two imaging surveys and a time-domain survey. The Apertif imaging surveys use a configuration of 40 partially overlapping compound beams (CBs) simultaneously formed on the sky and arranged in an approximately rectangular shape.

Aims. This work is aimed at characterising the response of the 40 Apertif CBs to create frequency-resolved I, XX, and YY polarization empirical beam shapes. The measured CB maps can be used for the image deconvolution, primary beam correction, and mosaicking processes of Apertif imaging data.

Methods. We used drift scan measurements to measure the response of each of the 40 Apertif CBs. We derived beam maps for all individual beams in I, XX, and YY polarisation in 10 or 18 frequency bins over the same bandwidth as the Apertif imaging surveys. We sampled the main lobe of the beams and the side lobes up to a radius of 0.6 degrees from the beam centres. In addition, we derived beam maps for each individual WSRT dish.

Results. We present the frequency and time dependence of the beam shapes and sizes. We compared the compound beam shapes derived with the drift scan method to beam shapes derived with an independent method using a Gaussian Process Regression comparison between the Apertif continuum images and the NRAO VLA Sky Survey (NVSS) catalogue. We find a good agreement between the beam shapes derived with the two independent methods.
Transmission spectroscopy of the ultra-hot Jupiter MASCARA-4 b
Authors: Zhang Yapeng , Snellen Ignas A. G. , Wyttenbach Aurèlien , Nielsen Louise D. , Lendl Monika , Casasayas-Barris Núria , Chaverot Guillaume , Kesseli Aurora Y. , Lovis Christophe , Pepe Francesco A. , Psaridi Angelica , Seidel Julia V. , Udry Stéphane , Ulmer-Moll Solène
Published: August 2022

Context. Ultra-hot Jupiters (UHJs), rendering the hottest planetary atmospheres, offer great opportunities of detailed characterisation with high-resolution spectroscopy. MASCARA-4 b is a recently discovered close-in gas giant belonging to this category.

Aims. We aim to characterise MASCARA-4 b, search for chemical species in its atmosphere, and put these in the context of the growing knowledge on the atmospheric properties of UHJs.

Methods. In order to refine system and planet parameters, we carried out radial velocity measurements and transit photometry with the CORALIE spectrograph and EulerCam at the Swiss 1.2 m Euler telescope. We observed two transits of MASCARA-4 b with the high-resolution spectrograph ESPRESSO at ESO’s Very Large Telescope. We searched for atomic, ionic, and molecular species via individual absorption lines and cross-correlation techniques. These results are compared to literature studies on UHJs characterised to date.

Results. With CORALIE and EulerCam observations, we update the mass of MASCARA-4 b (Mp = 1.675 ± 0.241 MJup) as well as other system and planet parameters. In the transmission spectrum derived from ESPRESSO observations, we resolve excess absorption by Hα, Hβ, NaI D1&D2, CaII H&K, and a few strong lines of MgI, FeI, and FeII. We also present the cross-correlation detection of Mg I, CaI, Cr I, Fe I, and Fe II. The absorption strength of Fe II significantly exceeds the prediction from a hydrostatic atmospheric model, as commonly observed in other UHJs. We attribute this to the presence of Fe II in the exosphere due to hydrodynamic outflows. This is further supported by the positive correlation of absorption strengths of Fe II with the Hα line, which is expected to probe the extended upper atmosphere and the mass loss process. Comparing transmission signatures of various species in the UHJ population allows us to disentangle the hydrostatic regime (as traced via the absorption by Mg I and Fe I) from the exospheres (as probed by Hα and Fe II) of the strongly irradiated atmospheres.
Simulation view of galaxy clusters with low X-ray surface brightness
Authors: Ragagnin A. , Andreon S. , Puddu E.
Published: August 2022

Context. X-ray selected samples are known to miss galaxy clusters that are gas poor and have a low surface brightness. This is different for the optically selected samples such as the X-ray Unbiased Selected Sample (XUCS).

Aims. We characterise the origin of galaxy clusters that are gas poor and have a low surface-brightness by studying covariances between various cluster properties at fixed mass using hydrodynamic cosmological simulations.

Methods. We extracted ≈1800 galaxy clusters from a high-resolution Magneticum hydrodynamic cosmological simulation and computed covariances at fixed mass of the following properties: core-excised X-ray luminosity, gas fraction, hot gas temperature, formation redshift, matter density profile concentration, galaxy richness, fossilness parameter, and stellar mass of the bright central galaxy. We also compared the correlation between concentration and gas fractions in non-radiative simulations, and we followed the trajectories of particles inside galaxy clusters to assess the role of AGN depletion on the gas fraction.

Results. In simulations and in observational data, differences in surface brightness are related to differences in gas fraction. Simulations show that the gas fraction strongly correlates with assembly time, in the sense that older clusters are gas poor. Clusters that formed earlier have lower gas fractions because the feedback of the active galactic nucleus ejected a significant amount of gas from the halo. When the X-ray luminosity is corrected for the gas fraction, it shows little or no covariance with other quantities.

Conclusions. Older galaxy clusters tend to be gas poor and possess a low X-ray surface brightness because the feedback mechanism removes a significant fraction of gas from these objects. Moreover, we found that most of the LX covariance with the other quantities is explained by differences in the gas fraction.
MiR-30a-3p Targeting FLT1 Modulates Trophoblast Cell Proliferation in
the Pathogenesis of Preeclampsia
Authors: Wang Yuping , Wang Lanlan , Yu Xiaoyan , Gong Wenwen
Published: August 2022

Preeclampsia (PE) may pose significant adverse effects on pregnant women.
Dysregulation of angiogenesis, trophoblast invasion, and proliferation are known
to be associated with PE development and progression. Fms related tyrosine
kinase 1 (FLT1), an anti-angiogenic factor, is consistently upregulated in PE
patients. Recent papers highlight that aberrant miR-30a-3p expression
contributes to PE development. More effects are needed to assess the biological
function of placental miR-30a-3p in PE. The soluble FLT1 (sFLT1) and FLT1 levels
were tested by ELISA assay and Western blotting assay. mRNA levels were measured
by RT-qPCR assay. Colony formation and MTT assays were applied to assess the
effect of miR-30a-3p on trophoblast cell proliferation. The serum sFLT1 and
placental FLT1 levels were substantially high in patients with PE. Using miRNA
microarray assay, we identified miR-30a-3p upregulation in PE patients’
placenta tissues. We further confirmed that miR-30a-3p binds to the
3′-UTR of FLT1 gene and positively regulate its expression. Forcing
miR-30a-3p expression inhibited trophoblast cell proliferation and vice versa.
In conclusion, persistent high levels of FLT1 and miR-30a-3p may pose adverse
effects on angiogenesis and trophoblast proliferation in placenta of PE
patients. Therefore, targeting FLT1 and miR-30a-3p may serve as ideal strategies
for managing patients with PE.
Primäre Papillentumoren – Fallserie und Literaturüberblick
Authors: Leclaire Martin Dominik , Schatten Hannah , Biermann Julia
Published: August 2022

Hintergrund Primäre Tumoren der Papille stellen den behandelnden Augenarzt oft vor Herausforderungen. Sie weisen sehr unterschiedliche Erscheinungsbilder auf und viele primäre
Papillentumoren sind mit Syndromerkrankungen (vor allem Phakomatosen) assoziiert. Wegen der Seltenheit fallen Einordnung und Einschätzung oft schwer.

Material und Methoden Es erfolgte eine systematische Suche in den elektronischen Patientenakten (Zeitraum 01.01.2015 – 01.06.2022) der Klinik für Augenheilkunde des
Universitätsklinikums Münster nach Patienten mit primären Papillentumoren. Für jede Tumorentität wurden exemplarisch Fälle ausgesucht, die hier ausführlicher vorgestellt werden. Die
Kriterien zur exemplarischen Auswahl der Fälle waren eine eindeutige Diagnose, das Vorliegen geeigneten Bildmaterials und Folgeuntersuchungen in unserer Klinik.

Ergebnisse Die Suche ergab 7 Fälle mit 3 verschiedenen primären Tumorentitäten im Bereich der Papille (kapilläres Hämangioblastom, astrozytäres Hamartom und Melanozytom). Es wurden
exemplarisch 4 Patienten herausgesucht, die hier vorgestellt werden: 2 Fälle zum kapillären Hämangioblastom (einmal isoliert und zum anderen im Rahmen eines Von-Hippel-Lindau-Syndroms) sowie
jeweils ein Fall zum astrozytären Hamartom und zum Melanozytom. Wir skizzieren die weitere Diagnostik und den Krankheitsverlauf und geben einen Überblick über die wesentlichen Merkmale der
jeweils zugrunde liegenden Tumoren.

Schlussfolgerung Die Kenntnis der unterschiedlichen primären Tumoren im Bereich der Papille ist für eine korrekte Diagnosefindung notwendig. So gelingt die Abgrenzung zu malignen
Prozessen und Papillenanomalien. In vielen Fällen ist eine interdisziplinäre weitergehende Diagnostik notwendig. Die multimodale Bildgebung ist hilfreich und eine Anbindung an ein Zentrum
sinnvoll.