bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contamination-resistant, rapid emulsion-based isothermal nucleic acid amplification with Mie-scatter inspired light scatter analysis for bacterial identification
Authors: Day Alexander S. , Ulep Tiffany-Heather , Budiman Elizabeth , Dieckhaus Laurel , Safavinia Babak , Hertenstein Tyler , Yoon Jeong-Yeol
Published: October 2021

An emulsion loop-mediated isothermal amplification (eLAMP) platform was developed to reduce the impact that contamination has on assay performance. Ongoing LAMP reactions within the emulsion droplets cause a decrease in interfacial tension, causing a decrease in droplet size, which results in decreased light scatter intensity due to Mie theory. Light scatter intensity was monitored via spectrophotometers and fiber optic cables placed at 30° and 60°. Light scatter intensities collected at 3 min, 30° were able to statistically differentiate 103 and 106 CFU/µL initial Escherichia coli O157:H7 concentrations compared to NTC (0 CFU/µL), while the intensity at 60° were able to statistically differentiate 106 CFU/µL initial concentrations and NTC. Control experiments were conducted to validate nucleic acid detection versus bacterial adsorption, finding that the light scatter intensities change is due specifically to ongoing LAMP amplification. After inducing contamination of bulk LAMP reagents, specificity lowered to 0% with conventional LAMP, while the eLAMP platform showed 87.5% specificity. We have demonstrated the use of angle-dependent light scatter intensity as a means of real-time monitoring of an emulsion LAMP platform and fabricated a smartphone-based monitoring system that showed similar trends as spectrophotometer light scatter data, validating the technology for a field deployable platform.
Vaccination intentions generate racial disparities in the societal persistence of COVID-19
Authors: Wang Yanchao , Ristea Alina , Amiri Mehrnaz , Dooley Dan , Gibbons Sage , Grabowski Hannah , Hargraves J. Lee , Kovacevic Nikola , Roman Anthony , Schutt Russell K. , Gao Jianxi , Wang Qi , O’Brien Daniel T.
Published: October 2021

We combined survey, mobility, and infections data in greater Boston, MA to simulate the effects of racial disparities in the inclination to become vaccinated on continued infection rates and the attainment of herd immunity. The simulation projected marked inequities, with communities of color experiencing infection rates 3 times higher than predominantly White communities and reaching herd immunity 45 days later on average. Persuasion of individuals uncertain about vaccination was crucial to preventing the worst inequities but could only narrow them so far because 1/5th of Black and Latinx individuals said that they would never vaccinate. The results point to a need for well-crafted, compassionate messaging that reaches out to those most resistant to the vaccine.
Exploration of efficient electron acceptors for organic solar cells: rational design of indacenodithiophene based non-fullerene compounds
Authors: Khalid Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Usman , -Razia Eisha-tul , Shafiq Zahid , Alam Mohammed Mujahid , Imran Muhammad , Akram Muhammad Safwan
Published: October 2021

The global need for renewable sources of energy has compelled researchers to explore new sources and improve the efficiency of the existing technologies. Solar energy is considered to be one of the best options to resolve climate and energy crises because of its long-term stability and pollution free energy production. Herein, we have synthesized a small acceptor compound (TPDR) and have utilized for rational designing of non-fullerene chromophores (TPD1–TPD6) using end-capped manipulation in A2–A1–D–A1–A2 configuration. The quantum chemical study (DFT/TD-DFT) was used to characterize the effect of end group redistribution through frontier molecular orbital (FMO), optical absorption, reorganization energy, open circuit voltage (Voc), photovoltaic properties and intermolecular charge transfer for the designed compounds. FMO data exhibited that TPD5 had the least ΔE (1.71 eV) with highest maximum absorption (λmax) among all compounds due to the four cyano groups as the end-capped acceptor moieties. The reorganization energies of TPD1–TPD6 hinted at credible electron transportation due to the lower values of λe than λh. Furthermore, open circuit voltage (Voc) values showed similar amplitude for all compounds including parent chromophore, except TPD4 and TPD5 compounds. These designed compounds with unique end group acceptors have the potential to be used as novel fabrication materials for energy devices.
Reliably quantifying the evolving worldwide dynamic state of the COVID-19 outbreak from death records, clinical parametrization, and demographic data
Authors: Vilar Jose M. G. , Saiz Leonor
Published: October 2021

The dynamic characterization of the COVID-19 outbreak is critical to implement effective actions for its control and eradication but the information available at a global scale is not sufficiently reliable to be used directly. Here, we develop a quantitative approach to reliably quantify its temporal evolution and controllability through the integration of multiple data sources, including death records, clinical parametrization of the disease, and demographic data, and we explicitly apply it to countries worldwide, covering 97.4% of the human population, and to states within the United States (US). The validation of the approach shows that it can accurately reproduce the available prevalence data and that it can precisely infer the timing of nonpharmaceutical interventions. The results of the analysis identified general patterns of recession, stabilization, and resurgence. The diversity of dynamic behaviors of the outbreak across countries is paralleled by those of states and territories in the US, converging to remarkably similar global states in both cases. Our results offer precise insights into the dynamics of the outbreak and an efficient avenue for the estimation of the prevalence rates over time.
Identification of biomarkers of brown adipose tissue aging highlights the role of dysfunctional energy and nucleotide metabolism pathways
Authors: Mancini Carola , Gohlke Sabrina , Garcia-Carrizo Francisco , Zagoriy Vyacheslav , Stephanowitz Heike , Schulz Tim J.
Published: October 2021

Brown adipose tissue function declines during aging and may contribute to the onset of metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity. Only limited understanding of the mechanisms leading to the metabolic impairment of brown adipocytes during aging exists. To this end, interscapular brown adipose tissue samples were collected from young and aged mice for quantification of differential gene expression and metabolite levels. To identify potential processes involved in brown adipocyte dysfunction, metabolite concentrations were correlated to aging and significantly changed candidates were subsequently integrated with a non-targeted proteomic dataset and gene expression analyses. Our results include novel age-dependent correlations of polar intermediates in brown adipose tissue. Identified metabolites clustered around three biochemical processes, specifically energy metabolism, nucleotide metabolism and vitamin metabolism. One mechanism of brown adipose tissue dysfunction may be linked to mast cell activity, and we identify increased histamine levels in aged brown fat as a potential biomarker. In addition, alterations of genes involved in synthesis and degradation of many metabolites were mainly observed in the mature brown adipocyte fraction as opposed to the stromal vascular fraction. These findings may provide novel insights on the molecular mechanisms contributing to the impaired thermogenesis of brown adipocytes during aging.
Assessing the carbon capture potential of a reforestation project
Authors: Lefebvre David , Williams Adrian G. , Kirk Guy J. D. , Paul  , Burgess J. , Meersmans Jeroen , Silman Miles R. , Román-Dañobeytia Francisco , Farfan Jhon , Smith Pete
Published: October 2021

The number of reforestation projects worldwide is increasing. In many cases funding is obtained through the claimed carbon capture of the trees, presented as immediate and durable, whereas reforested plots need time and maintenance to realise their carbon capture potential. Further, claims usually overlook the environmental costs of natural or anthropogenic disturbances during the forest’s lifetime, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with the reforestation are not allowed for. This study uses life cycle assessment to quantify the carbon footprint of setting up a reforestation plot in the Peruvian Amazon. In parallel, we combine a soil carbon model with an above- and below-ground plant carbon model to predict the increase in carbon stocks after planting. We compare our results with the carbon capture claims made by a reforestation platform. Our results show major errors in carbon accounting in reforestation projects if they (1) ignore the time needed for trees to reach their carbon capture potential; (2) ignore the GHG emissions involved in setting up a plot; (3) report the carbon capture potential per tree planted, thereby ignoring limitations at the forest ecosystem level; or (4) under-estimate tree losses due to inevitable human and climatic disturbances. Further, we show that applications of biochar during reforestation can partially compensate for project emissions.
Reward prediction error in the ERP following unconditioned aversive stimuli
Authors: Stewardson Harry J. , Sambrook Thomas D.
Published: October 2021

Reinforcement learning in humans and other animals is driven by reward prediction errors: deviations between the amount of reward or punishment initially expected and that which is obtained. Temporal difference methods of reinforcement learning generate this reward prediction error at the earliest time at which a revision in reward or punishment likelihood is signalled, for example by a conditioned stimulus. Midbrain dopamine neurons, believed to compute reward prediction errors, generate this signal in response to both conditioned and unconditioned stimuli, as predicted by temporal difference learning. Electroencephalographic recordings of human participants have suggested that a component named the feedback-related negativity (FRN) is generated when this signal is carried to the cortex. If this is so, the FRN should be expected to respond equivalently to conditioned and unconditioned stimuli. However, very few studies have attempted to measure the FRN’s response to unconditioned stimuli. The present study attempted to elicit the FRN in response to a primary aversive stimulus (electric shock) using a design that varied reward prediction error while holding physical intensity constant. The FRN was strongly elicited, but earlier and more transiently than typically seen, suggesting that it may incorporate other processes than the midbrain dopamine system.
Effect of Geobacillus toebii GT-02 addition on composition transformations and microbial community during thermophilic fermentation of bean dregs
Authors: Chen Xiaojia , Wu Chengjian , Li Xiang , Wang Chenyang , Li Qinyu , Zhou Peng , Wei Dong , Shi Jiping , Zhao Zhijun
Published: October 2021

Bean dregs can be prepared into organic fertilizer by microbial fermentation. Geobacillus toebii GT-02, which has promoting effect on bean dregs fermentation, was isolated from horse dung and it grows within a range of 40–75 °C and pH 6.50–9.50. The effectiveness of GT-02 addition on composition transformations and the microbial community in bean dregs thermophilic fermentation at 70 °C for 5 days was investigated (T1). Fermentation of bean dregs without GT-02 served as control (CK). The results showed that T1 (the germination index (GI) = 95.06%) and CK (GI = 86.42%) reached maturity (defined by GI ≥ 85%) on day 3 and day 5, respectively. In addition, the total nitrogen loss of T1 (18.46%) on day 3 was lower than that in CK (24.12%). After thermophilic fermentation, the total organic carbon and dry matter loss of T1 (53.51% and 54.16%) was higher than that in CK (41.72% and 42.82%). The mean microbial number in T1 was 4.94 × 107 CFUs/g dry matter, which was 5.37 times higher than that in CK. 16S rDNA sequencing identified Bacillus, Geobacillus and Thermobacillus as dominant in CK, while Bacillus, Ammoniibacillus and Geobacillus were dominant in T1. A canonical correspondence analysis showed that Geobacillus and Ammoniibacillus were positively correlated with the GI. Thus, thermophilic fermentation with GT-02 can promote the maturity of bean dregs, which indicated the potential application value of GT-02 in thermophilic fermentation.
Apoplastic effector candidates of a foliar forest pathogen trigger cell death in host and non-host plants
Authors: Hunziker Lukas , Tarallo Mariana , Gough Keiko , Guo Melissa , Hargreaves Cathy , Loo Trevor S. , McDougal Rebecca L. , Mesarich Carl H. , Bradshaw Rosie E.
Published: October 2021

Forests are under threat from pests, pathogens, and changing climate. A major forest pathogen worldwide is the hemibiotroph Dothistroma septosporum, which causes dothistroma needle blight (DNB) of pines. While D. septosporum uses effector proteins to facilitate host infection, it is currently unclear whether any of these effectors are recognised by immune receptors to activate the host immune system. Such information is needed to identify and select disease resistance against D. septosporum in pines. We predicted and investigated apoplastic D. septosporum candidate effectors (DsCEs) using bioinformatics and plant-based experiments. We discovered DsCEs that trigger cell death in the angiosperm Nicotiana spp., indicative of a hypersensitive defence response and suggesting their recognition by immune receptors in non-host plants. In a first for foliar forest pathogens, we developed a novel protein infiltration method to show that tissue-cultured pine shoots can respond with a cell death response to a DsCE, as well as to a reference cell death-inducing protein. The conservation of responses across plant taxa suggests that knowledge of pathogen–angiosperm interactions may also be relevant to pathogen–gymnosperm interactions. These results contribute to our understanding of forest pathogens and may ultimately provide clues to disease immunity in both commercial and natural forests.
Sericin cocoon bio-compatibilizer for reactive blending of thermoplastic cassava starch
Authors: Chaiyaso Thanongsak , Rachtanapun Pornchai , Thajai Nanthicha , Kiattipornpithak Krittameth , Jantrawut Pensak , Ruksiriwanich Warintorn , Seesuriyachan Phisit , Leksawasdi Noppol , Phimolsiripol Yuthana , Techapun Charin , Sommano Sarana Rose , Ougizawa Toshiaki , Yakul Kamon , Jantanasakulwong Kittisak
Published: October 2021

Cassava starch was blended with glycerol to prepare thermoplastic starch (TPS). Thermoplastic starch was premixed with sericin (TPSS) by solution mixing and then melt-blended with polyethylene grafted maleic anhydride (PEMAH). The effect of sericin on the mechanical properties, morphology, thermal properties, rheology, and reaction mechanism was investigated. The tensile strength and elongation at break of the TPSS10/PEMAH blend were improved to 12.2 MPa and 100.4%, respectively. The TPS/PEMAH morphology presented polyethylene grafted maleic anhydride particles (2 μm) dispersed in the thermoplastic starch matrix, which decreased in size to approximately 200 nm when 5% sericin was used. The melting temperature of polyethylene grafted maleic anhydride (121 °C) decreased to 111 °C because of the small crystal size of the polyethylene grafted maleic anhydride phase. The viscosity of TPS/PEMAH increased with increasing sericin content because of the chain extension. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the reaction between the amino groups of sericin and the maleic anhydride groups of polyethylene grafted maleic anhydride. This reaction reduced the interfacial tension between thermoplastic starch and polyethylene grafted maleic anhydride, which improved the compatibility, mechanical properties, and morphology of the blend.
Paracrine activity of adipose derived stem cells on limbal epithelial stem cells
Authors: Sikora Bartosz , Skubis-Sikora Aleksandra , Prusek Agnieszka , Gola Joanna
Published: October 2021

Limbal stem cells deficiency (LSCD) is an eye disease caused by the loss of stem cells in the corneal limbus as a succession of an injury due physical, biological, or chemical agents. Current therapies of LSCD are focused on the transplantation of donor corneas or tissue equivalents produced from autologous limbal stem cells. Every year there are waiting millions of patients for the cornea transplantation all over the world and the list is growing due to the relatively low number of cornea donors. On the other hand, the transplantation of tissue or cells into the recipient’s body is associated with the higher risk of possible side effects. The possibility of the application of an indirect treatment using the properties of the paracrine activity of stem cells, would be beneficial for the patients with transplant failures. This study was to evaluate the paracrine effect of mesenchymal stem cells derived from adipose tissue (ADSC) on the viability of limbal epithelial stem cells (LESC). The paracrine effect was assessed by treating LESC with conditioned medium collected from ADSC culture. Cell viability, cytotoxicity, apoptosis and proliferation were evaluated using in vitro assays in standard conditions and induced inflammation. After the exposure to the examined conditions, the expression of genes related to pro- and anti- inflammatory factors was evaluated and compared to the secretion of selected cytokines by ELISA test. Moreover, the changes in LESC phenotype were assessed using of phenotype microarrays. Our findings suggest that paracrine activity of ADSC on LESC promotes its proliferation and has a potential role in mitigation of the adverse impact of inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide.
Development of a prediction model based on LASSO regression to evaluate the risk of non-sentinel lymph node metastasis in Chinese breast cancer patients with 1–2 positive sentinel lymph nodes
Authors: Meng Lei , Zheng Ting , Wang Yuanyuan , Li Zhao , Xiao Qi , He Junfeng , Tan Jinxiang
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to develop an intraoperative prediction model to evaluate the risk of non-sentinel lymph node (NSLN) metastasis in Chinese breast cancer patients with 1–2 positive sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs). The clinicopathologic data of 714 patients with 1–2 positive SLNs were investigated. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the risk factors of NSLN metastasis. A new mathematical prediction model was developed based on LASSO and validated in an independent cohort of 131 patients. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to quantify performance of the model. Patients with NSLN metastasis accounted for 37.3% (266/714) and 34.3% (45/131) of the training and validation cohorts, respectively. A LASSO regression-based prediction model was developed and included the 13 most powerful factors (age group, clinical tumour stage, histologic type, number of positive SLNs, number of negative SLNs, number of SLNs dissected, SLN metastasis ratio, ER status, PR status, HER2 status, Ki67 staining percentage, molecular subtype and P53 status). The AUCs of training and validation cohorts were 0.764 (95% CI 0.729–0.798) and 0.777 (95% CI 0.692–0.862), respectively. We presented a new prediction model with excellent clinical applicability and diagnostic performance for use by clinicians as an intraoperative clinical tool to predict risk of NSLN metastasis in Chinese breast cancer patients with 1–2 positive SLNs and make the final decisions regarding axillary lymph node dissection.
Direct fermentative conversion of poly(ethylene terephthalate) into poly(hydroxyalkanoate) by Ideonella sakaiensis
Authors: Fujiwara Ryoga , Sanuki Rikako , Ajiro Hiroharu , Fukui Toshiaki , Yoshida Shosuke
Published: October 2021

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is a widely used plastic in bottles and fibers; its waste products pollute the environment owing to its remarkable durability. Recently, Ideonella sakaiensis 201-F6 was isolated as a unique bacterium that can degrade and assimilate PET, thus paving the way for the bioremediation and bioconversion of PET waste. We found that this strain harbors a poly(hydroxyalkanoate) (PHA) synthesis gene cluster, which is highly homologous with that of Cupriavidus necator, an efficient PHA producer. Cells grown on PET accumulated intracellular PHA at high levels. Collectively, our findings in this study demonstrate that I. sakaiensis can mediate the direct conversion of non-biodegradable PET into environment-friendly plastic, providing a new approach for PET recycling.
The genome of Shorea leprosula (Dipterocarpaceae) highlights the ecological relevance of drought in aseasonal tropical rainforests
Authors: Ng Kevin Kit Siong , Kobayashi Masaki J. , Fawcett Jeffrey A. , Hatakeyama Masaomi , Paape Timothy , Ng Chin Hong , Ang Choon Cheng , Tnah Lee Hong , Lee Chai Ting , Nishiyama Tomoaki , Sese Jun , O’Brien Michael J. , Copetti Dario , Isa Mohd Noor Mat , Ong Robert Cyril , Putra Mahardika , Siregar Iskandar Z. , Indrioko Sapto , Kosugi Yoshiko , Izuno Ayako , Isagi Yuji , Lee Soon Leong , Shimizu Kentaro K.
Published: October 2021

Hyperdiverse tropical rainforests, such as the aseasonal forests in Southeast Asia, are supported by high annual rainfall. Its canopy is dominated by the species-rich tree family of Dipterocarpaceae (Asian dipterocarps), which has both ecological (e.g., supports flora and fauna) and economical (e.g., timber production) importance. Recent ecological studies suggested that rare irregular drought events may be an environmental stress and signal for the tropical trees. We assembled the genome of a widespread but near threatened dipterocarp,Shorea leprosula, and analyzed the transcriptome sequences of ten dipterocarp species representing seven genera. Comparative genomic and molecular dating analyses suggested a whole-genome duplication close to the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event followed by the diversification of major dipterocarp lineages (i.e. Dipterocarpoideae). Interestingly, the retained duplicated genes were enriched for genes upregulated by no-irrigation treatment. These findings provide molecular support for the relevance of drought for tropical trees despite the lack of an annual dry season.
Hybrid PET-MRI for early detection of dopaminergic dysfunction and microstructural degradation involved in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Shang Song’an , Li Daixin , Tian Youyong , Li Rushuai , Zhao Hongdong , Zheng Liyun , Zhang Yingdong , Chen Yu-Chen , Yin Xindao
Published: October 2021

Dopamine depletion and microstructural degradation underlie the neurodegenerative processes in Parkinson’s disease (PD). To explore early alterations and underlying associations of dopamine and microstructure in PD patients utilizing the hybrid positron emission tomography (PET)-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Twenty-five PD patients in early stages and twenty-four matched healthy controls underwent hybrid 18F-fluorodopa (DOPA) PET-diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) scanning. The striatal standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR), DTI maps (fractional anisotropy, FA; mean diffusivity, MD) in subcortical grey matter, and deterministic tractography of the nigrostriatal pathway were processed. Values in more affected (MA) side, less affected (LA) side and mean were analysed. Correlations and mediations among PET, DTI and clinical characteristics were further analysed. PD groups exhibited asymmetric pattern of dopaminergic dysfunction in putamen, impaired integrity in the microstructures (nigral FA, putaminal MD, and FA of nigrostriatal projection). On MA side, significant associations between DTI metrics (nigral FA, putaminal MD, and FA of nigrostriatal projection) and motor performance were significantly mediated by putaminal SUVR, respectively. Early asymmetric disruptions in putaminal dopamine concentrations and nigrostriatal pathway microstructure were detected using hybrid PET-MRI. The findings further implied that molecular degeneration mediates the modulation of microstructural disorganization on motor dysfunction in the early stages of PD.
Study of ultrafast Rabi flopping in colloidal quantum dots at room temperature
Authors: Xu Xingsheng , Zhen Zhen , Jin Siyue , Ren Jie
Published: October 2021

The interaction between high-intensity ultrashort optical pulses and materials has led to a number of fascinating optical phenomena, including Rabi flopping and self-induced transparency. Until now, there have been few reports on ultrashort coherent pulse propagation and reshaping in semiconductor materials. Here we investigate Rabi flopping and Rabi splitting in colloidal quantum dots with Fabry-Perot cavity of SU8/Si. The Rabi flopping phenomenon is monitored via the pump-probe differential reflection spectroscopy. A high excitation power reshapes the temporal oscillations so that the fast Fourier transform spectra display several peaks. The photoluminescence spectrum by continuous-wave excitation splits under a proper incident angle, and the splitted photoluminescence spectrum is generally consistent with the amplitude of differential reflectivity as function of wavelength. These results demonstrate that both of the temporal oscillations and the splitting of the continuous-wave excited photoluminescence spectra are due to strong coupling between colloidal quantum dots and the Fabry-Perot cavity.
Highlighting altruism in geoscience careers aligns with diverse US student ideals better than emphasizing working outdoors
Authors: Carter Samantha C. , Griffith Elizabeth M. , Jorgensen Theresa A. , Coifman Karin G. , Griffith W. Ashley
Published: October 2021

A common approach to attract students in the United States to the geosciences is to emphasize outdoor experiences in the natural world. However, it is unclear how successful this strategy is. Specifically, the geosciences have been less successful than other sciences at recruiting a diverse workforce that reflects different perspectives and life experiences. Here we present a survey of students enrolled in College Algebra at a Hispanic-serving institution in the southwestern United States where, of 1550 students surveyed, 55.3% identified as an underrepresented minority (URM). We find that surveyed students care little about working outdoors. Instead, they rate altruistic factors, such as helping people or the environment, as most important. Female respondents rate these factors higher than male respondents. We also find that many respondents know little about what a career in geoscience entails. We argue that better informing students about the altruistic potential of geoscience careers would be an effective strategy to broaden recruitment.
Construction of self-enhanced photoelectrochemical platform for l-cysteine detection via electron donor–acceptor type coumarin 545 aggregates
Authors: Meng Hui , Chen Min , Mo Fangjing , Guo Jiang , Liu Pingkun , Fu Yingzi
Published: October 2021

The electron donor–acceptor type coumarin 545 aggregates with good stability and high photoelectric activity was used for constructing a self-enhanced photoelectrochemical sensor free of extra electron donors for the sensitive detection of l-Cys.
Binders for sodium-ion batteries: progress, challenges and strategies
Authors: Li Rong-Rong , Yang Zhuo , He Xiang-Xi , Liu Xiao-Hao , Zhang Hang , Gao Yun , Qiao Yun , Li Li , Chou Shu-Lei
Published: October 2021

The challenges faced by binders can be addressed by enhancing the mechanical and chemical bonding strength, designing multifunctional integrated binders, and combining advanced characterization techniques.
Exploring the possibilities of calcium isotopic analysis in aqueous humor using a fast and miniaturized calcium isolation procedure
Authors: Valencia Eva , López Adrián , Lobo Lara , González-Iglesias Héctor , Pereiro Rosario
Published: October 2021

A fast Ca purification procedure was optimized for low sample volumes and subsequent high precision isotopic analysis by multicollector-ICP-MS. As a proof of concept, the method was successfully applied for the analysis of aqueous humor samples.
Structure-based design of haloperidol analogues as inhibitors of acetyltransferase Eis from Mycobacterium tuberculosis to overcome kanamycin resistance
Authors: Punetha Ankita , Green Keith D. , Garzan Atefeh , Thamban Chandrika Nishad , Willby Melisa J. , Pang Allan H. , Hou Caixia , Holbrook Selina Y. L. , Krieger Kyle , Posey James E. , Parish Tanya , Tsodikov Oleg V. , Garneau-Tsodikova Sylvie
Published: October 2021

Haloperidol analogues were developed as inhibitors of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistance enzyme Eis to serve as kanamycin adjuvants.
Structure, assembly mechanism and magnetic properties of heterometallic dodecanuclear nanoclusters DyIII4MII8 (M = Ni, Co)
Authors: Yu Shui , Zhang Qin-Hua , Chen Zilu , Zou Hua-Hong , Hu Huancheng , Liu Dongcheng , Liang Fu-Pei
Published: October 2021

Two isostructural heterometallic dodecanuclear nanoclusters [Dy4Co8(μ3-OH)8(L)8(OAc)4(H2O)4]·3EtOH·3CH3CN·H2O (1) and [Dy4Ni8(μ3-OH)8(L)8(OAc)4(H2O)4]·3.5EtOH·0.5CH3CN·5H2O (2) with different assembly mechanisms are presented here.
Surface blocking of azolla modified copper electrode for trace determination of phthalic acid esters as the molecular barricades by differential pulse voltammetry: response surface modelling optimized biosensor
Authors: Darvishi Maryam , Shariati Shahab , Safa Fariba , Islamnezhad Akbar
Published: October 2021

In this work, a sensitive and efficient voltammetric biosensor was introduced for differential pulse voltammetric (DPV) determination of dibutyl phthalate, dimethyl phthalate, di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate and dicyclohexyl phthalate in aqueous solutions.
Origin of the N-coordinated single-atom Ni sites in heterogeneous electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction reaction
Authors: Wang Yu , You Liming , Zhou Kun
Published: October 2021

A constant-potential first-principles and microkinetic model is developed to uncover the nature of heterogeneous Ni–N–C catalysts. It highlights the crucial role of a pyrrolic-type NiN4 moiety in electrochemical CO2 reduction.
Word-Final Disfluencies in a School-Age Child: Beneath the Tip of the Iceberg
Authors: Eichorn Naomi , Donnan Sidney
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Disfluencies associated with stuttering generally occur in the initial position of words. This study reviews data from a school-age child with an atypical stuttering profile consisting predominantly of word-final disfluencies (WFDs). Our primary goals were to identify patterns in overt features of WFDs and to extend our understanding of this clinical profile by focusing on aspects of stuttering that lie beneath the surface.

Method

Analyses explored the patterns and distributions of the child's observable stuttering behaviors, in addition to his awareness, perceptions, and subjective experience of stuttering.

Results

Findings indicated that the WFD profile consists of relatively consistent and distinct overt features. We also found that, in many ways, the child perceived the impact of his disfluencies much like other children who stutter, even though his disfluencies manifested in a less common form.

Conclusion

Findings suggest the need for increased awareness of the varied forms stuttering may take in order to ensure accurate diagnosis, clear communication to clients and parents, and timely access to appropriate intervention.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Dysphagia: What Have We Learned So Far and What Do We Still Need to Investigate?
Authors: Mancopes Renata , Borowsky da Rosa Fernanda , Tomasi Lidia Lis , Pasqualoto Adriane S. , Steele Catriona M.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Dysphagia is an underrecognized concern in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and may contribute to disease exacerbations. In this review article, we share information regarding dysphagia in people with COPD, synthesizing knowledge both from the literature and from studies performed in the context of a multidisciplinary clinical pulmonary rehabilitation program at the Federal University of Santa Maria in Brazil.

Results

This narrative review presents evidence showing that awareness of dysphagia and patient-reported symptoms of dysphagia are rare in individuals with stable COPD. However, evidence from the routine collection of patient-reported symptom data using the Eating Assessment Tool 10 and about dysphagia-related quality of life using the Swallowing Quality of Life questionnaire do suggest that dysphagia is experienced by some individuals with COPD. Several studies suggest that patients with stable COPD present with altered swallowing physiology on videofluoroscopic exams, including silent aspiration in a small number of these individuals. However, both patient self-report and clinical screening using the Volume–Viscosity Swallowing Test have been found to be poor predictors of these videofluoroscopic findings. We discuss the possibility that altered laryngeal sensation and respiratory–swallow discoordination play a role in dysphagia in people with COPD, and highlight assessment tasks that appear to have the highest sensitivity for detecting penetration–aspiration in this population. Finally, we review preliminary evidence suggesting that physical therapy techniques targeting altered respiratory muscle biomechanics may benefit swallowing in people with COPD. Knowledge gaps requiring further research are identified, and implications for clinical practice are discussed.
Global repair bandwidth cost optimization of generalized regenerating codes in clustered distributed storage systems
Authors: Gu Shushi , Wang Fugang , Zhang Qinyu , Huang Tao , Xiang Wei
Published: October 2021

In clustered distributed storage systems (CDSSs), one of the main design goals is minimizing the transmission cost during the failed storage nodes repairing. Generalized regenerating codes (GRCs) are proposed to balance the intra‐cluster repair bandwidth and the inter‐cluster repair bandwidth for guaranteeing data availability. The trade‐off performance of GRCs illustrates that, it can reduce storage overhead and inter‐cluster repair bandwidths simultaneously. However, in practical big data storage scenarios, GRCs cannot give an effective solution to handle the heterogeneity of bandwidth costs among different clusters for node failures recovery. This paper proposes an asymmetric bandwidth allocation strategy (ABAS) of GRCs for the inter‐cluster repair in heterogeneous CDSSs. Furthermore, an upper bound of the achievable capacity of ABAS is derived based on the information flow graph (IFG), and the constraints of storage capacity and intra‐cluster repair bandwidth are also elaborated. Then, a metric termed global repair bandwidth cost (GRBC), which can be minimized regarding of the inter‐cluster repair bandwidths by solving a linear programming problem, is defined. The numerical results demonstrate that, maintaining the same data availability and storage overhead, the proposed ABAS of GRCs can effectively reduce the GRBC compared to the traditional symmetric bandwidth allocation schemes.
A full‐domain fluidic‐thermal approach for a high‐speed PMSM considering the bearing components
Authors: Zhu Gaojia , Li Longnv , Xue Ming , Liu Tao
Published: October 2021

This paper presents a refined full‐domain model for the fluidic‐thermal coupled analyses of a 15‐kW 30,000‐rpm high‐speed permanent magnet synchronous machine (HS‐PMSM) considering the heat generation and dissipation of the bearing components. In order to analyse the heat dissipation capacities of the bearing components, firstly, the fluid flow conditions inside the bearings with different revolution and rotation ratios are researched, and the most serious case is taken in the full‐domain calculations. Secondly, the three‐dimensional (3D) full‐domain model is established, and the fluidic‐thermal analyses are conducted based on the basic principles of numerical heat transfer and CFD. During calculations, in order to obtain the temperature rise precisely, the angular contact ball bearings are well modelled with all the internal components including the oil films, and the frictional loss in the bearings are computed by the Palmgren model. A 15‐kW 30,000‐rpm HS‐PMSM prototype is established and tested to verify the full domain thermal modelling methodologies and indirectly validate the bearing performance calculations. Finally, a self‐ventilated structure is employed to prevent the bearing temperature rise, and the cooling effectiveness is validated by numerical calculations.
A combination of feature extraction methods and deep learning for brain tumour classification
Authors: Siar Masoumeh , Teshnehlab Mohammad
Published: October 2021

This paper presents a method for categorizing tumour disease from magnetic resonance imaging images using a convolutional neural network. The proposed technique consists of three major phases, including feature extraction, feature selection, and combination. The authors considered the classification method using convolutional neural network without any pre‐processing on input images as the original method. The original method is then improved in some sequential phases when convolutional neural network uses features generated by feature extraction methods. Many popular feature extraction methods in generating the input features of the network are examined. After examining the results, a set of feature extraction schemes with appropriate performance are selected for the next phase. Also, the authors assigned weight factors to each of the selected methods, according to their accuracy. By assigning these weight factors to the methods, the network's accuracy increased to an acceptable level compared to the first and second observations. An accuracy above 99.76% was achieved, which is a 2% improvement using these feature extraction methods compared to the original method. The authors also added a third class named ‘I do not know’ to increase the tumour detection problem's reliability in the last phase. The authors have successfully introduced a convolutional neural network architecture with high accuracy and reliability.
A review of wave energy technology from a research and commercial perspective
Authors: Guo Bingyong , Ringwood John V.
Published: October 2021

Although wave energy prototypes have been proposed for more than 100 years, they have still not reached full commercialisation. The reasons for this are varied, but include the diversity of device operating principles, the variety of onshore/nearshore/offshore deployment possibilities, the diversity of the wave climate at various potential wave energy sites, and the consequent lack of convergence in technology and consensus. This distributed effort has, in turn, lead to a slow rate of progression up the learning curve, with a significant number of wave energy company liquidations and technical setbacks dampening investor confidence. Although a number of reviews on wave energy technology are already in the published literature, such a dynamic environment merits an up‐to‐date analysis and this review examines the wave energy landscape from a technological, research and commercial perspective.
Virgo filaments
Authors: Castignani G. , Combes F. , Jablonka P. , Finn R. A. , Rudnick G. , Vulcani B. , Desai V. , Zaritsky D. , Salomé P.
Published: October 2021

It is now well established that galaxies have different morphologies, gas contents, and star formation rates (SFR) in dense environments like galaxy clusters. The impact of environmental density extends to several virial radii, and galaxies appear to be pre-processed in filaments and groups before falling into the cluster. Our goal is to quantify this pre-processing in terms of gas content and SFR, as a function of density in cosmic filaments. We have observed the two first CO transitions in 163 galaxies with the IRAM-30 m telescope, and added 82 more measurements from the literature, thus forming a sample of 245 galaxies in the filaments around the Virgo cluster. We gathered HI-21cm measurements from the literature and observed 69 galaxies with the Nançay telescope to complete our sample. We compare our filament galaxies with comparable samples from the Virgo cluster and with the isolated galaxies of the AMIGA sample. We find a clear progression from field galaxies to filament and cluster galaxies for decreasing SFR, increasing fraction of galaxies in the quenching phase, an increasing proportion of early-type galaxies, and decreasing gas content. Galaxies in the quenching phase, defined as having a SFR below one-third of that of the main sequence (MS), are only between 0% and 20% in the isolated sample, according to local galaxy density, while they are 20%–60% in the filaments and 30%–80% in the Virgo cluster. Processes that lead to star formation quenching are already at play in filaments; they depend mostly on the local galaxy density, while the distance to the filament spine is a secondary parameter. While the HI-to-stellar-mass ratio decreases with local density by an order of magnitude in the filaments, and two orders of magnitude in the Virgo cluster with respect to the field, the decrease is much less for the H2-to-stellar-mass ratio. As the environmental density increases, the gas depletion time decreases, because the gas content decreases faster than the SFR. This suggests that gas depletion precedes star formation quenching.
Solar Orbiter observations of the structure of reconnection outflow layers in the solar wind
Authors: Owen C. J. , Foster A. C. , Bruno R. , Livi S. , Louarn P. , Berthomier M. , Fedorov A. , Anekallu C. , Kataria D. , Kelly C. W. , Lewis G. R. , Watson G. , Berčič L. , Stansby D. , Suen G. , Verscharen D. , Fortunato V. , Nicolaou G. , Wicks R. T. , Rae I. J. , Lavraud B. , Horbury T. S. , O’Brien H. , Evans V. , Angelini V.
Published: October 2021

We briefly review an existing model of the structure of reconnection layers which predicts that several more distinct layers, in the form of contact discontinuities, rotational Alfvèn waves, or slow shocks, should be identifiable in solar wind reconnection events than are typically reported in studies of reconnection outflows associated with bifurcated current sheets. We re-examine this notion and recast the identification of such layers in terms of the changes associated with the boundaries of both the ion and electron outflows from the reconnection current layers. We then present a case study using Solar Orbiter MAG and SWA data, which provides evidence consistent with this picture of extended multiple layers around the bifurcated current sheet. A full confirmation of this picture requires more detailed examination of the particle distributions in this and other events. However, we believe this concept is a valuable framework for considering the nature of reconnection layers in the solar wind.
Evolution patterns of the peak energy in the GRB prompt emission
Authors: Gao Hao-Xuan , Geng Jin-Jun , Huang Yong-Feng
Published: October 2021

Context. The peak energy (Ep) exhibited during the prompt emission phase of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) shows two different evolution patterns, namely hard-to-soft and intensity-tracking, of which the physical origin remains unknown. In addition to low-energy indices of GRB prompt spectra, the evolution patterns of Ep may be another crucial indicator with which to discriminate radiation mechanisms (e.g., synchrotron or photosphere) for GRBs.

Aims. We explore the parameter space to find conditions that could generate different evolution patterns in the peak energy in the framework of synchrotron radiation.

Methods. We have developed a code to calculate the synchrotron emission from a simplified shell numerically, considering: three cooling processes (synchrotron, synchrotron self-Compton (SSC), and adiabatic) of electrons, the effect of decaying magnetic field, the effect of the bulk acceleration of the emitting shell, and the effect of a variable source function that describes electrons accelerated in the emitting region.

Results. After exploring the parameter space of the GRB synchrotron scenario, we find that the intensity-tracking pattern of Ep could be achieved in two situations. One is that the cooling process of electrons is dominated by adiabatic cooling or SSC+adiabatic cooling at the same time. The other is that the emitting region is under acceleration in addition to the cooling process being dominated by SSC cooling. Otherwise, hard-to-soft patterns of Ep are normally expected. Moreover, a chromatic intensity-tracking pattern of Ep could be induced by the effect of a variable source function.
The effect of material position of multi-pass friction stir processing on friction stir welded AA1050/AA6082 dissimilar joints
Authors: Muribwathoho Oritonda , Msomi Velaphi , Merdji Ali , Mabuwa Sipokazi
Published: October 2021

The AA1050 and AA6082 plates were used in producing dissimilar joint through friction stir welding (FSW) technique. The developed dissimilar joint was then subjected to multi-pass friction stir processing (FSP) technique. Various tests for the AA1050/AA6082 (AA1050 on the advancing side) and AA6082/AA1050 (AA6082 on the advancing side) joints were conducted on joints subjected to 1pass (1P) and 4pass (4P). The microstructural analysis showed that the increase in number of FSP passes resulted in a reduced grain size regardless of the of material position. The Vickers microhardness for AA1050/AA6082 FSPed joints increased towards AA6082 side while the microhardness for AA6082/AA1050 FSPed joints decreased towards the AA 1050 side regardless the number of the passes. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of AA1050/AA6082 joint increased with an increase in the number of passes while AA6082/AA1050 fluctuated between the specimens sampled from different locations of the FSPed joints.
Impact of Problems Associated with Scheduling and Capacity Planning of a Production Process – An Overview
Authors: Sunday A. Afolalu , Omolayo M. Ikumapayi , Remilekun E. Elewa , Abdulkareem Ademola , Moses E. Emetere , Samuel O. Ongbali , Olamma U. Iheanetu
Published: October 2021

Production is one of the most important activities which guarantee the continued existence of man; however, it comes with its challenges which make it very difficult to meet up the consumer’s demand. In this regard, the system is required by production and manufacturing companies, human resources, and materials to be enhanced by scheduling and planning of production. In addressing this problem of scheduling over a mid-term possibility, material flow and production objectives should be forecast by solving the problems of planning. Only when the production planning problems have been solved then scheduling problems could be addressed. In this work, we relate scheduling with capacity planning in relation to the production of goods and services. Also reviewed the common problems associated with the industry and how they are overcome.
Evaluation of Effective Maintenance and Reliability Operation Management – A Review
Authors: Sunday A. Afolalu , Omolayo M. Ikumapayi , Okwilagwe Osise , Moses M. Emetere , Bernard A. Adaramola
Published: October 2021

Manufacturing operations are often carried out with one major goal in mind: to develop products that satisfy increasing customer demand for reliable and high-quality goods. Achieving this target is often hindered by factors such as machine downtime caused by faults in the machinery or production process which leads to time and financial losses. Hence, it is important for operation managers to ensure measures are employed at every stage of production to effectively address these factors and enable unhindered production. Some commonly used strategies include timely maintenance of machines and facilities and reliability analysis of components and processes. This paper assesses the influence of effective maintenance and reliability practices for operations management.