bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of factors contributing to the performance of nonwoven fibrous matrices as substrates for adenovirus vectored vaccine stabilisation
Authors: Dulal Pawan , Gharaei Robabeh , Berg Adam , Walters Adam A. , Hawkins Nicholas , Claridge Tim D. W. , Kowal Katarzyna , Neill Steven , Ritchie Adam J. , Ashfield Rebecca , Hill Adrian V. S. , Tronci Giuseppe , Russell Stephen J. , Douglas Alexander D.
Published: October 2021

Adenovirus vectors offer a platform technology for vaccine development. The value of the platform has been proven during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although good stability at 2–8 °C is an advantage of the platform, non-cold-chain distribution would have substantial advantages, in particular in low-income countries. We have previously reported a novel, potentially less expensive thermostabilisation approach using a combination of simple sugars and glass micro-fibrous matrix, achieving excellent recovery of adenovirus-vectored vaccines after storage at temperatures as high as 45 °C. This matrix is, however, prone to fragmentation and so not suitable for clinical translation. Here, we report an investigation of alternative fibrous matrices which might be suitable for clinical use. A number of commercially-available matrices permitted good protein recovery, quality of sugar glass and moisture content of the dried product but did not achieve the thermostabilisation performance of the original glass fibre matrix. We therefore further investigated physical and chemical characteristics of the glass fibre matrix and its components, finding that the polyvinyl alcohol present in the glass fibre matrix assists vaccine stability. This finding enabled us to identify a potentially biocompatible matrix with encouraging performance. We discuss remaining challenges for transfer of the technology into clinical use, including reliability of process performance.
Significance of genetic modifiers of hemoglobinopathies leading towards precision medicine
Authors: Hariharan Priya , Gorivale Manju , Sawant Pratibha , Mehta Pallavi , Nadkarni Anita
Published: October 2021

Hemoglobinopathies though a monogenic disorder, show phenotypic variability. Hence, understanding the genetics underlying the heritable sub-phenotypes of hemoglobinopathies, specific to each population, would be prognostically useful and could inform personalized therapeutics. This study aimed to evaluate the role of genetic modifiers leading to higher HbF production with cumulative impact of the modifiers on disease severity. 200 patients (100 β-thalassemia homozygotes, 100 Sickle Cell Anemia), and 50 healthy controls were recruited. Primary screening followed with molecular analysis for confirming the β-hemoglobinopathy was performed. Co-existing α-thalassemia and the polymorphisms located in 3 genetic loci linked to HbF regulation were screened. The most remarkable result was the association of SNPs with clinically relevant phenotypic groups. The γ-globin gene promoter polymorphisms [− 158 C → T, + 25 G → A],BCL11A rs1427407 G → T, − 3 bp HBS1L-MYB rs66650371 and rs9399137 T → C polymorphisms were correlated with higher HbF, in group that has lower disease severity score (P < 0.00001), milder clinical presentation, and a significant delay in the age of the first transfusion. Our study emphasizes the complex genetic interactions underlying the disease phenotype that may be a prognostic marker for predicting the clinical severity and assist in disease management.
Polariton condensation in an organic microcavity utilising a hybrid metal-DBR mirror
Authors: McGhee Kirsty E. , Putintsev Anton , Jayaprakash Rahul , Georgiou Kyriacos , O’Kane Mary E. , Kilbride Rachel C. , Cassella Elena J. , Cavazzini Marco , Sannikov Denis A. , Lagoudakis Pavlos G. , Lidzey David G.
Published: October 2021

We have developed a simplified approach to fabricate high-reflectivity mirrors suitable for applications in a strongly-coupled organic-semiconductor microcavity. Such mirrors are based on a small number of quarter-wave dielectric pairs deposited on top of a thick silver film that combine high reflectivity and broad reflectivity bandwidth. Using this approach, we construct a microcavity containing the molecular dye BODIPY-Br in which the bottom cavity mirror is composed of a silver layer coated by a SiO2 and a Nb2O5 film, and show that this cavity undergoes polariton condensation at a similar threshold to that of a control cavity whose bottom mirror consists of ten quarter-wave dielectric pairs. We observe, however, that the roughness of the hybrid mirror—caused by limited adhesion between the silver and the dielectric pair—apparently prevents complete collapse of the population to the ground polariton state above the condensation threshold.
Multi-omics analysis of m6A modification-related patterns based on m6A regulators and tumor microenvironment infiltration in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wu Xincheng , Bai Zhengping
Published: October 2021

Epigenetic modifications, especially N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, play a key role in tumor microenvironment (TME) infiltration. However, the regulatory role of m6A modification in the TME of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unclear. A total of 2506 patients with LUAD were included in the analysis and divided into different groups according to distinct m6A modification-related patterns based on 23 m6A regulators. A comprehensive analysis was performed to explore TME infiltration in different m6A modification-related patterns. Principal component analysis was performed to obtain the m6Ascore and to quantify m6A modification-related patterns in different individuals. Three distinct m6A modification-related patterns were identified by 23 m6A regulators. The pathway enrichment analysis showed that m6Acluster-A was associated with immune activation; m6Acluster-B was associated with carcinogenic activation; m6Acluster-C was prominently related to substance metabolism. M6Acluster-A was remarkably rich in TME-infiltrating immune cells and patients with this pattern showed a survival advantage. The m6Ascore could predict TME infiltration, tumor mutation burden (TMB), the effect of tumor immunotherapy, and the prognosis of patients in LUAD. High m6Ascore was characterized by increased TME infiltration, reduced TMB, and survival advantage. Patients with a high m6Ascore exhibited significantly improved clinical response to anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (anti-CTLA4) immunotherapy. This study explored the regulatory mechanisms of TME infiltration in LUAD. The comprehensive analysis of m6A modification-related patterns may contribute to the development of individualized immunotherapy and the improvement of the overall effectiveness of immunotherapy for LUAD patients.
Mapping manifestations of parametric uncertainty in projected pelagic oxygen concentrations back to contemporary local model fidelity
Authors: Löptien U. , Dietze H. , Preuss R. , Toussaint U. V.
Published: October 2021

Pelagic biogeochemical models (BGCMs) have matured into generic components of Earth System Models. BGCMs mimic the effects of marine biota on oceanic nutrient, carbon and oxygen cycles. They rely on parameters that are adjusted to match observed conditions. Such parameters are key to determining the models’ responses to changing environmental conditions. However, many of these parameters are difficult to constrain and constitute a major source of uncertainty in BGCM projections. Here we use, for the first time, variance-based sensitivity analyses to map BGCM parameter uncertainties onto their respective local manifestation in model entities (such as oceanic oxygen concentrations) for both contemporary climate and climate projections. The mapping effectively relates local uncertainties of projections to the uncertainty of specific parameters. Further, it identifies contemporary benchmarking regions, where the uncertainties of specific parameters manifest themselves, thereby facilitating an effective parameter refinement and a reduction of the associated uncertainty. Our results demonstrate that the parameters that are linked to uncertainties in projections may differ from those parameters that facilitate model conformity with present-day observations. In summary, we present a practical approach to the general question of where present-day model fidelity may be indicative for reliable projections.
Evidence for the formation of two types of oxygen interstitials in neutron-irradiated α-Al2O3 single crystals
Authors: Lushchik A. , Kuzovkov V. N. , Kotomin E. A. , Prieditis G. , Seeman V. , Shablonin E. , Vasil’chenko E. , Popov A. I.
Published: October 2021

Due to unique optical/mechanical properties and significant resistance to harsh radiation environments, corundum (α-Al2O3) is considered as a promising candidate material for windows and diagnostics in forthcoming fusion reactors. However, its properties are affected by radiation-induced (predominantly, by fast neutrons) structural defects. In this paper, we analyze thermal stability and recombination kinetics of primary Frenkel defects in anion sublattice − the F-type electronic centers and complementary oxygen interstitials in fast-neutron-irradiated corundum single crystals. Combining precisely measured thermal annealing kinetics for four types of primary radiation defects (neutral and charged Frenkel pairs) and the advanced model of chemical reactions, we have demonstrated for the first time a co-existence of the two types of interstitial defects – neutral O atoms and negatively charged O- ions (with attributed optical absorption bands peaked at energies of 6.5 eV and 5.6 eV, respectively). From detailed analysis of interrelated kinetics of four oxygen-related defects, we extracted their diffusion parameters (interstitials serve as mobile recombination partners) required for the future prediction of secondary defect-induced reactions and, eventually, material radiation tolerance.
Meta-analysis of the normal diffusion tensor imaging values of the median nerve and how they change in carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Rojoa Djamila , Raheman Firas , Rassam Joseph , Wade Ryckie G.
Published: October 2021

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) leads to distortion of axonal architecture, demyelination and fibrosis within the median nerve. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) characterises tissue microstructure and generates reproducible proxy measures of nerve ‘health’ which are sensitive to myelination, axon diameter, fiber density and organisation. This meta-analysis summarises the normal DTI values of the median nerve, and how they change in CTS. This systematic review included studies reporting DTI of the median nerve at the level of the wrist in adults. The primary outcome was to determine the normal fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) of the median nerve. Secondarily, we show how the FA and MD differ between asymptomatic adults and patients with CTS, and how these differences are independent of the acquisition methods. We included 32 studies of 2643 wrists, belonging to 1575 asymptomatic adults and 1068 patients with CTS. The normal FA was 0.58 (95% CI 0.56, 0.59) and the normal MD was 1.138 × 10–3mm2/s (95% CI 1.101, 1.174). Patients with CTS had a significantly lower FA than controls (mean difference 0.12 [95% CI 0.09, 0.16]). Similarly, the median nerve of patients with CTS had a significantly higher mean diffusivity (mean difference 0.16 × 10–3 mm2/s [95% CI 0.05, 0.27]). The differences were independent of experimental factors. We provide summary estimates of the normal FA and MD of the median nerve in asymptomatic adults. Furthermore, we show that diffusion throughout the length of the median nerve becomes more isotropic in patients with CTS.
Intestinal, liver and lipid disorders in genetically obese rats are more efficiently reduced by dietary milk thistle seeds than their oil
Authors: Opyd Paulina M. , Jurgoński Adam
Published: October 2021

We hypothesized that milk thistle seed or seed oil dietary supplementation reduces intestinal, liver and lipid disorders specific to genetic obesity, and the seeds can be more efficient in doing so. Lean and obese male Zucker rats were allocated to 4 groups: the lean (LC) and obese control (OC) groups fed a standard diet and the other 2 obese groups fed a diet supplemented with milk thistle seed oil (O + MTO) or milk thistle seeds (O + MTS). After 5 weeks of feeding, the cecal SCFA pool was slightly and significantly lower in OC and O + MTO compared with LC and O + MTS. The liver fat content was greater in OC, O + MTO and O + MTS compared with LC; however, it was significantly lower in O + MTS than in OC and O + MTO. The plasma cholesterol was greater in OC compared with LC, O + MTO and O + MTS; however, it was significantly greater in O + MTO and O + MTS compared with LC. The plasma bilirubin was detected in OC and O + MTO, whereas it was not present in LC and O + MTS. Milk thistle seeds can improve fermentation events in the distal intestine and reduce other disorders specific to genetically obese rats, and the seed PUFAs are responsible for that to a lesser extent.
Dementia subtype prediction models constructed by penalized regression methods for multiclass classification using serum microRNA expression data
Authors: Asanomi Yuya , Shigemizu Daichi , Akiyama Shintaro , Sakurai Takashi , Ozaki Kouichi , Ochiya Takahiro , Niida Shumpei
Published: October 2021

There are many subtypes of dementia, and identification of diagnostic biomarkers that are minimally-invasive, low-cost, and efficient is desired. Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) have recently gained attention as easily accessible and non-invasive biomarkers. We conducted a comprehensive miRNA expression analysis of serum samples from 1348 Japanese dementia patients, composed of four subtypes—Alzheimer’s disease (AD), vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and normal pressure hydrocephalus—and 246 control subjects. We used this data to construct dementia subtype prediction models based on penalized regression models with the multiclass classification. We constructed a final prediction model using 46 miRNAs, which classified dementia patients from an independent validation set into four subtypes of dementia. Network analysis of miRNA target genes revealed important hub genes, SRC and CHD3, associated with the AD pathogenesis. Moreover, MCU and CASP3, which are known to be associated with DLB pathogenesis, were identified from our DLB-specific target genes. Our study demonstrates the potential of blood-based biomarkers for use in dementia-subtype prediction models. We believe that further investigation using larger sample sizes will contribute to the accurate classification of subtypes of dementia.
West Nile virus seroprevalence and associated risk factors among horses in Egypt
Authors: Selim Abdelfattah , Megahed Ameer , Kandeel Sahar , Alouffi Abdulaziz , Almutairi Mashal M.
Published: October 2021

Determination of the seroprevalence and risk factors that are associated with West Nile virus (WNV) in horses is essential for adoption of effective prevention strategies. Our objective in this study, therefore, was to determine the seroprevalence and to identify the risk factors associated with WNV infection in the most densely horse-populated governorates in Egypt. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2018 on 930 horses, which were distributed over five governorates in the Nile delta of Egypt. The horses, which were randomly selected, were serologically tested through use of an ID screen West Nile competition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect anti-WNV immunoglobulin G (IgG) and plaque reduction neutralization tests (PRNT; gold standard) to confirm the seropositive status of animals and to avoid cross reaction with other flavi-viruses. Four variables (geographical location, breed, sex and age) were considered in the risk analysis. Univariable and stepwise forward multivariable logistic regression methods were used for risk-factor analysis. The odds ratio (OR) was used as an approximate measure of relative risk. A total of 156 (16.8%; 95% confidence interval (CI) 14.4–19.2; P < 0.001) serum samples were found to be serologically positive for WNV. The highest seroprevalence rate was detected in horses of age ≥ 15 years (68.1%; 95% CI 49.8–72.4), stallions (26.4%; 95% CI 22.7–30.4), and those of mixed breed (21.5%; 95% CI 17.7–27.5). Horses older than 15 years were found to be at increased risk of WNV infection with OR = 4.3 (95% CI 3.0–6.2, P < 0.001) compared with horses aged under 2.5 years. Also, when all the risk factors were considered, stallions were more likely than mares to be WNV seropositive (OR = 2.4, 95% CI 1.6–3.7, P < 0.001), and of the breeds, mixed-breed (OR = 1.9, 95% CI 1.2–2.8, P = 0.005) and Arabian horses (OR = 1.9, 95% CI 1.2–2.8, P = 0.005) were more likely to be seropositive. Geographical location seemed to have no impact on the seroprevalence of exposure to WNV among these horses. Due to these findings, we strongly recommend intensive surveillance and implementation of effective control and prevention strategies against WNV, especially in stallion, mixed-breed horses with ages ≥ 15 years.
Assessment on the oil accumulation by knockdown of triacylglycerol lipase in the oleaginous diatom Fistulifera solaris
Authors: Maeda Yoshiaki , Watanabe Kahori , Kaha Marshila , Yabu Yusuke , Yoshino Tomoko , Matsumoto Mitsufumi , Tanaka Tsuyoshi
Published: October 2021

Microalgae are promising producers of biofuel due to higher accumulation of triacylglycerol (TAG). However, further improvement of the lipid metabolism is critical for feasible application of microalgae in industrial production of biofuel. Suppression of lipid degradation pathways is a promising way to remarkably increase the lipid production in model diatoms. In this study, we established an antisense-based knockdown (KD) technique in the marine oleaginous diatom, Fistulifera solaris. This species has a capability to accumulate high content of lipids. Tgl1 KD showed positive impact on cell growth and lipid accumulation in conventional culture in f/2 medium, resulting in higher oil contents compared to wild type strain. However, these impacts of Tgl1 KD were slight when the cells were subjected to the two-stage growth system. The Tgl1 KD resulted in slight change of fatty acid composition; increasing in C14:0, C16:0 and C16:1, and decreasing in C20:5. This study indicates that, although Tgl1 played a certain role in lipid degradation in F. solaris, suppression of only a single type of TAG lipase was not significantly effective to improve the lipid production. Comprehensive understanding of the lipid catabolism in this microalga is essential to further improve the lipid production.
Classification of temporomandibular joint internal derangement based on magnetic resonance imaging and clinical findings of 435 patients contributing to a nonsurgical treatment protocol
Authors: Hegab Ayman F. , Al Hameed Hossam IAbd , Karam Khaled Said
Published: October 2021

This prospective clinical study aimed to establish a new classification system for TMJ internal derangement based on MRI in correlation with clinical findings contributing to a nonsurgical treatment protocol. A consecutive sample of 435 internal derangement patients was enrolled in the study. Clinical and MRI studies were used to establish the new classification system. A total of 747 joints were classified according to our staging system and received treatment according to the associated nonsurgical treatment protocol. The primary outcome variables were maximum voluntary mouth opening and visual analogue scale pain scores. The secondary outcome variable was joint sound. Statistical analysis of the differences between pretreatment and posttreatment measurements showed an increase in mouth opening throughout the study period (P < 0.001 at 12 m posttreatment). Statistical analysis of the VAS scores showed a statistically significant decrease in all study groups during all study periods, with P < 0.0001 at 12 months posttreatment. Statistical analysis of joint sounds showed significant improvement during all study periods. The new classification system is a simple, & reasonable including a detailed description of all the pathologic changes of the joint. The nonsurgical treatment protocol was Simple, effective and specific depending on the pathological changes in joint.
Influence of gender and education on cocaine users in an outpatient cohort in Spain
Authors: Requena-Ocaña Nerea , Flores-Lopez María , Martín Alicia San , García-Marchena Nuria , Pedraz María , Ruiz Juan Jesús , Serrano Antonia , Suarez Juan , Pavón Francisco Javier , de Fonseca Fernando Rodríguez , Araos Pedro
Published: October 2021

Gender significantly influences sociodemographic, medical, psychiatric and addiction variables in cocaine outpatients. Educational level may be a protective factor showing less severe addictive disorders, longer abstinence periods, and better cognitive performance. The aim was to estimate gender-based differences and the influence of educational level on the clinical variables associated with cocaine use disorder (CUD). A total of 300 cocaine-consuming patients undergoing treatments were recruited and assessed using the Psychiatric Research Interview for Substance and Mental Diseases according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Women developed CUD later but exhibited more consumption of anxiolytics, prevalence of anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and major depressive disorders. Alcohol and cannabis use disorders were more frequent in men. A predictive model was created and identified three psychiatric variables with good prognosis for distinguishing between women and men. Principal component analysis helped to describe the different profile types of men and women who had sought treatment. Low educational levels seemed to be a risk factor for the onset, development, and duration of CUD in both genders. Women and men exhibited different clinical characteristics that should be taken into account when designing therapeutic policies. The educational level plays a protective/risk role in the onset, development and progression of CUD, thus prolonging the years of compulsory education and implementing cognitive rehabilitation programmes could be useful.
Decision support systems halve fungicide use compared to calendar-based strategies without increasing disease risk
Authors: Lázaro Elena , Makowski David , Vicent Antonio
Published: October 2021

The European Green Deal aims to reduce the use of chemical pesticides by half by 2030. Decision support systems are tools to help farmers schedule fungicide spraying based on disease risk and can reduce fungicide application frequency and overall use. However, the potential benefit of decision support systems compared to traditional calendar-based strategies has not yet been rigorously quantified. Here we synthesise 80 experiments and show that globally decision support systems can reduce fungicide treatments by at least 50% without compromising disease control. For a given fixed number of fungicide sprays, decision support systems were as effective as calendar-based programs in reducing disease incidence. When the number of sprays was halved, the increase in disease incidence was lower for decision support system-based strategies than calendar-based strategies. Our findings suggest that decision support systems can reduce fungicide use while limiting the risk to plant health and resistance development.
Enabling the next steps in cancer immunotherapy: from antibody-based bispecifics to multispecifics, with an evolving role for bioconjugation chemistry
Authors: Thoreau Fabien , Chudasama Vijay
Published: October 2021

Immune targets and antibodies for cancer immunotherapy are reviewed. Multispecific antibody formats and bioconjugation chemistry to generate them are discussed.
A gold(i) 1,2,3-triazolylidene complex featuring the interaction between gold and methine hydrogen
Authors: Narayana Mannem Adi , Vaddamanu Moulali , Sathyanarayana Arruri , Siddhant Kumar , Sugiyama Shohei , Ozaki Kazuhisa , Rengan Aravind Kumar , Velappan Kavitha , Hisano Kyohei , Tsutsumi Osamu , Prabusankar Ganesan
Published: October 2021

A mesoionic N-heterocyclic carbene–gold(i) complex with a unique Au⋯H–C(methine) intramolecular hydrogen bonding interaction has been investigated for the first time in the solid state.
Bi3+ photoluminescence in Y1−xBixCa3(GaO)3(BO3)4 and energy transfer to Eu3+ and Tb3+ in co-doped phosphors
Authors: Gao Yan , Qian Huayu , Jiang Pengfei , Cong Rihong , Yang Tao
Published: October 2021

The high efficiency and broad band excitation/emission of Bi3+ make it a good sensitizer to RE3+; thus color tunable phosphors from blue to red and from blue to green are realized by utilizing the energy transfer in co-doped phosphors.
A 2D/2D NiCo-MOF/Ti3C2 heterostructure for the simultaneous detection of acetaminophen, dopamine and uric acid by differential pulse voltammetry
Authors: Lu Xing , Zhang Feng , Sun Yimeng , Yu Kai , Guo Wei , Qu Fengyu
Published: October 2021

A 2D/2D NiCo-MOF/Ti3C2 heterojunction is constructed as a non-enzymatic biosensor for the simultaneous electrochemical detection of acetaminophen (AP), dopamine (DA), and uric acid (UA) via differential pulse voltammetry.
Role of the (pseudo)halido ligand in ruthenium(ii) p-cymene α-amino acid complexes in speciation, protein reactivity and cytotoxicity
Authors: Biancalana Lorenzo , Zanda Emanuele , Hadiji Mouna , Zacchini Stefano , Pratesi Alessandro , Pampaloni Guido , Dyson Paul J. , Marchetti Fabio
Published: October 2021

Replacement of the labile chlorido ligand with (pseudo)halides in Ru(ii) p-cymene α-amino acid complexes determines their speciation in water and in cell culture medium and reactivity with cytochrome c; yet does not confer cytotoxicity.
C–O and C–C bond cleavage of α,β-unsaturated esters with the assistance of a gallane(pyridyl)iron complex
Authors: Muraoka Takako , Siti Nursaliha , Ueno Keiji
Published: October 2021

C–O and C–C bonds in α,β-unsaturated esters were selectively cleaved with the assistance of a gallane(pyridyl)iron complex.
Direct MoB MBene domain formation in magnetron sputtered MoAlB thin films
Authors: Sahu Rajib , Bogdanovski Dimitri , Achenbach Jan-Ole , Zhang Siyuan , Hans Marcus , Primetzhofer Daniel , Schneider Jochen M. , Scheu Christina
Published: October 2021

Two-dimensional (2D) inorganic transition metal boride nanosheets are emerging as promising post-graphene materials in energy research due to their unique properties.
Design and synthesis of novel phthalocyanines as potential antioxidant and antitumor agents starting with new synthesized phthalonitrile derivatives
Authors: El-badrawy Afnan M. , Fadda Ahmed A. , Abdel-Latif Ehab , Selim Yasser A.
Published: October 2021

New phthalonitrile derivatives formed from reactions of 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone (DDQ) were considered as the key intermediates for the synthesis of new phthalocyanines.
Inhibitory mechanism of two homoisoflavonoids from Ophiopogon japonicus on tyrosinase activity: insight from spectroscopic analysis and molecular docking
Authors: Wang Liling , Qin Yuchuan , Wang Yanbin , Zhou Yifeng , Liu Bentong , Bai Minge , Tong Xiaoqing , Fang Ru , Huang Xubo
Published: October 2021

The inhibition mechanism of two homoisoflavonoids from Ophiopogon japonicus including methylophiopogonanone A (MO-A) and methylophiopogonanone B (MO-B) on tyrosinase (Tyr) was studied by multiple spectroscopic techniques and molecular docking.
ZIF-95 as a filler for enhanced gas separation performance of polysulfone membrane
Authors: Shafiq Sanaullah , Al-Maythalony Bassem A. , Usman Muhammad , Ba-Shammakh Mohammad Saleh , Al-Shammari Abdallah A.
Published: October 2021

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are found to be promising porous crystalline materials for application in gas separation.
Effect of the swelling degree on the non-isothermal dehydration kinetics of a poly(acrylic acid)-g-gelatine hydrogel
Authors: Stanković Branislav
Published: October 2021

Dehydration kinetics of a PAAG hydrogel is governed by changes in the hydrogel structure, due to which the structure and energy state of adsorbed water are also changed. Dehydration kinetics depends on the swelling degree and on the thermal history.
The structure of polymer brushes: the transition from dilute to dense systems: a computer simulation study
Authors: Polanowski Piotr , Sikorski Andrzej
Published: October 2021

Monodisperse polymer brushes were studied by means of Monte Carlo simulations.
Covalent triazine frameworks for the selective sorption of palladium from highly acidic radioactive liquid wastes
Authors: Wu Pengcheng , Liu Hui , Sun Mengqi , Zeng Yaxin , Ye Jiawei , Qin Song , Cai Yimin , Feng Wen , Yuan Lihua
Published: October 2021

Two novel robust covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs) have been prepared, which present excellent irradiation stability, sorption capability, and selectivity for Pd(ii) at 1–6 M HNO3with the highest uptake of 333 mg g−1at 3 M HNO3.
Zero-strain Ca0.4Ce0.6VO4 anode material for high capacity and long-life Na-ion batteries
Authors: Liang Guisheng , Xiong Xuhui , Yang Liting , Liu Xianhu , Che Renchao
Published: October 2021

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have attracted widespread attention for grid-scale energy storage owing to the natural abundance of sodium, low cost and environmental friendliness.
Supporting a Cu@In2O3 core–shell structure on N-doped graphitic carbon cuboctahedral cages for efficient photocatalytic homo-coupling of terminal alkynes
Authors: Yuan Yaya , Wang Ya-Qun , Zhuang Guilin , Li Qiuyan , Yang Feng-Lei , Wang Xiaojun , Han Xiguang
Published: October 2021

N-doped carbon cuboctahedral cage-supported core–shell Cu@In2O3 nanocomposites exhibit highly enhanced photocatalytic performances towards the home-coupling of terminal alkynes.
Bioinspired tailoring of nanoarchitectured nickel sulfide@nickel permeated carbon composite as highly durable and redox chemistry enabled battery-type electrode for hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Pallavolu Mohan Reddy , Nallapureddy Ramesh Reddy , Goli Hemachandra Rao , Banerjee Arghya Narayan , Rajasekhara Reddy Gutturu , Joo Sang W.
Published: October 2021

Bioinspired tailoring of nanoarchitectured nickel sulfide@nickel permeated carbon composite as highly durable and redox chemistry enabled battery-type electrode for hybrid supercapacitors.
How Do You Do Talk Therapy With Someone Who Can't Talk? Perspectives From Mental Health Providers on Delivering Services to Individuals With Aphasia
Authors: Strong Katie A. , Randolph Jenna
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Aphasia is correlated with depression and anxiety, and it has a negative impact on quality of life. Aphasia is also frequently misunderstood among mental health care providers. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of mental health providers who provide services to people living with aphasia.

Method

Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyze interviews of six mental health providers who had some experience in providing services to people with aphasia.

Results

Three main themes among mental health care providers' experiences providing services to people with aphasia were identified: barriers, interprofessional collaboration, and therapy looks different. Subthemes associated with
barriers
included insufficient training and knowledge of aphasia, the stigma of receiving mental health services, and accessibility to services. Subthemes related to
interdisciplinary collaboration
included referrals, knowledge and awareness, and strategies and tools. Subthemes supporting
therapy looks different
included a new approach to therapy and challenges.

Conclusions

Mental health providers' experiences reveal the need for an action-oriented approach to overcome barriers, a nontraditional approach to talk therapy for people with aphasia, and increased collaboration with speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Future research should explore expanding the collaboration between SLPs and mental health providers to increase shared knowledge and skills in issues related to reducing depression and anxiety to support the well-being of people with aphasia.
Phonological Development in Urdu-Speaking Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ambreen Saira , To Carol K. S.
Published: October 2021

Background

Speech and language researchers study phonological acquisition and evaluate the errors that children make to understand this complex process. This information provides clinicians with a scientific reference for better assessment and intervention services to children with articulation/phonological disorders. Urdu is a language spoken by more than 200 million speakers worldwide. However, research on Urdu phonological development is in its infancy.

Purpose

This systematic review aimed to identify relevant studies and provide a comprehensive review of which aspects of Urdu phonological development have been targeted, along with the reported findings.

Method

Five phases of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. All retrieved studies published between January 1980 and March 2020 and focusing on Urdu speech sound acquisition and/or phonological processes in typically developing native Urdu speakers aged up to 8 years were included in the review. The final search was conducted on May 4, 2020.

Results

A total of 873 records were identified from five databases and a manual search. Nine studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included in the final review. All studies were published in the English language, five of which were unpublished master's theses and four were peer-reviewed journal articles. Four of these studies focused on consonant acquisition, whereas five explored phonological processes. No study focused on the acquisition of Urdu vowels, diphthongs, or consonant clusters. These shortlisted studies were reviewed in detail to determine participants' demographic characteristics, focused areas of phonological acquisition, data elicitation methods and contexts, transcription systems, and major findings.

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive review of the available literature on Urdu phonological development and highlights areas for future research.
Adaptive sliding mode synchronisation for fractional‐order non‐linear systems in the presence of time‐varying actuator faults
Authors: Bataghva Meysam , Hashemi Mahnaz
Published: October 2021

This paper presents an adaptive sliding mode synchronisation scheme for a class of fractional order non‐linear systems in the presence of unknown parameters, actuator faults and disturbances. The designed adaptive controller compensates a general class of actuator faults without the need for any explicit fault detection. The parameters, times and patterns of the considered faults are completely unknown. The proposed adaptive sliding mode synchronisation scheme can guarantee the asymptotic convergence of the synchronisation errors to the origin despite the presence of actuator faults and uncertainties. The simulation results show the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed adaptive sliding mode fault compensation approach.
Control strategy for direct voltage and frequency stability enhancement in HVAC/HVDC grids
Authors: Azizi Neda , Moradi CheshmehBeigi Hassan , Rouzbehi Kumars
Published: October 2021

Direct voltage fluctuations due to the presence of relatively large DC reactors (as an essential part of HVDC breakers), lack of inertia, and unwanted frequency fluctuations in the AC side of HVDC grids, have major consequences on the stability of HVAC/HVDC grids. The use of the DC Power System Stabilizer (DC‐PSS) can damp and eliminate voltage oscillations caused by the presence of the DC reactors. However, DC‐PSS cannot address the issues of inertia and unwanted frequency fluctuations. A method to improve inertia is proposed here that can operate well with the droop controller, and DC‐PSS does not interfere with power‐sharing and does not interact with any of these elements. Since the presence of a droop controller in HVAC/HVDC grids associates with power and direct voltage, the method proposed here can improve direct voltage fluctuations by eliminating severe power peaks. Moreover, this method does not change the voltage level of the entire system, so there is no need to change the set‐points of controllers. In addition, all parameters of the controllers are tuned by an intelligent algorithm, and the Participation factor (PF) scheme is used to find the proper placement of the proposed controller.
High‐speed target imaging for vortex electromagnetic wave radar
Authors: Zhou Yu‐Ang , Zhu Yong‐Zhong , Chen Yi‐Jun , Zhao He‐Feng , Xie Wen‐Xuan
Published: October 2021

Vortex electromagnetic waves (VEMWs) carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM) are promising to benefit the higher degree of freedom for inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) imaging on account of their helical wavefront. For high‐speed targets, the ‘stop and go’ hypothesis is no longer valid. Thus, the intrapulse movement of the target will cause the broadening and shift of the one‐dimensional range profile and the blurring of the OAM eigenvalues coupling azimuth. This contribution proposes a high‐speed target imaging method for the VEMW ISAR. First, an OAM‐based ISAR imaging model for high‐speed targets is derived and the echo characteristics are analysed. Subsequently, in order to effectively estimate the ratio of the echo to correct the imaging result, an estimation method that takes into account the calculation speed and accuracy is proposed. On this basis, the target velocity distribution obtained under multiple echoes is analysed to improve the accuracy of the results. Finally, the range profile and azimuthal profile are reconstructed. Compared with the existing vortex electromagnetic imaging algorithm, the proposed method can effectively eliminate the influence of high‐speed motion on the range and azimuth profile. This work provides suggestions for the development of EM vortex ISAR imaging technology.
Low elevation target altitude measurement for ubiquitous radar based on known transmitted waveform and sparse representation
Authors: Guo Rui , Peng Xiangyu , Tian Biao , Zhang Yue , Chen Zengping
Published: October 2021

The multipath effect deteriorates the performance of low elevation target altitude estimation with a ubiquitous radar strongly, especially in complex terrain environments in which multiple reflection paths exist simultaneously. This work shows how the authors reconstructed a multipath model for ubiquitous radar with a known waveform and took advantage of it to improve the altitude measurement performance when locating low‐altitude small targets in complex terrain environments. The authors first present a multipath propagation model for target elevation angle estimation in which not only received multipaths but also transmitted multipaths are taken into consideration. Then, a reconstructed elevation angle estimation model in which the waveform is known and the target elevation information is as same as the original model is derived. Finally, an innovative low elevation angle estimation algorithm based on a maximum likelihood estimator and a sparse representation is proposed. Simulations and experiment results verify that the proposed algorithm has a much more robust low elevation angle estimation performance than existing methods in complex terrain environments. Index Terms—Target altitude measurement, complex multipath effect, known transmitted waveform, sparse representation, ubiquitous radar.
Laboratory observation and astronomical search of 1-cyano propargyl radical, HCCCHCN
Authors: Cabezas C. , Nakajima M. , Chang C. H. , Agúndez M. , Endo Y. , Cernicharo J.
Published: October 2021

Context. The reaction between carbon atoms and vinyl cyanide, CH2CHCN, is a formation route to interstellar 3-cyano propargyl radical, CH2C3N, a species that has recently been discovered in space. The 1-cyano propargyl radical (HC3HCN), an isomer of CH2C3N, is predicted to be produced in the same reaction at least twice more efficiently than CH2C3N. Hence, HC3HCN is a plausible candidate to be observed in space as well.

Aims. We aim to generate the HC3HCN radical in the gas phase in order to investigate its rotational spectrum. The derived spectroscopic parameters for this species will be used to obtain reliable frequency predictions to support its detection in space.

Methods. The HC3HCN radical was produced by an electric discharge, and its rotational spectrum was characterized using a Balle-Flygare narrowband-type Fourier-transform microwave spectrometer operating in the frequency region of 4–40 GHz. The spectral analysis was supported by high-level ab initio calculations.

Results. A total of 193 hyperfine components that originated from 12 rotational transitions, a- and b-type, were measured for the HC3HCN radical. The analysis allowed us to accurately determine 22 molecular constants, including rotational and centrifugal distortion constants as well as the fine and hyperfine constants. Transition frequency predictions were used to search for the HC3HCN radical in TMC-1 using the QUIJOTE survey between 30 and 50 GHz. We do not detect HC3HCN in TMC-1 and derive a 3σ upper limit to its column density of 6.0 × 1011 cm−2.
Linking high- and low-mass star formation
Authors: Pitts R. L. , Kristensen L. E. , Jørgensen J. K. , van der Walt S. J.
Published: October 2021

Context. Astronomers have yet to establish whether high-mass protostars form from high-mass prestellar cores, similar to their lower-mass counterparts, or from lower-mass fragments at the heart of a pre-protostellar cluster undergoing large-scale collapse. Part of the uncertainty is due to a shortage of envelope structure data on protostars of a few tens of solar masses, where we expect to see a transition from intermediate-mass star formation to the high-mass process.

Aims. We sought to derive the masses, luminosities, and envelope density profiles for eight sources in Cygnus-X, whose mass estimates in the literature placed them in the sampling gap. Combining these sources with similarly evolved sources in the literature enabled us to perform a meta-analysis of protostellar envelope parameters over six decades in source luminosity.

Methods. We performed spectral energy distribution fitting on archival broadband photometric continuum data from 1.2 to 850 μm to derive bolometric luminosities for our eight sources plus initial mass and radius estimates for modelling density and temperature profiles with the radiative-transfer package Transphere.

Results. The envelope masses, densities at 1000 AU, outer envelope radii, and density power law indices as functions of bolometric luminosity all follow established trends in the literature spanning six decades in luminosity. Most of our sources occupy an intermediate to moderately high range of masses and luminosities, which helps to more firmly establish the continuity between low- and high-mass star formation mechanisms. Our density power law indices are consistent with observed values in the literature, which show no discernible trends with luminosity, and have a mean p = −1.4 ± 0.4. However, our sub-sample, with a mean power law index of −1.1 ± 0.3, is slightly flatter than would be expected for spherical envelopes in free fall (p = −1.5).

Conclusions. We attribute flattened density profiles for our eight sources to one or more of the following: ongoing accretion from their natal filaments, convolution of sources with neighbours or the larger filament, spherical averaging of asymmetric features (for example fragments), or inflation of the envelope by a moderate far-ultraviolet field. Finally, we show that the trends in all of the envelope parameters for high-mass protostars are statistically indistinguishable from trends in the same variables for low-mass protostars.
Impact of hydrogen injection on thermophysical properties and measurement reliability in natural gas networks
Authors: Dell’Isola Marco , Ficco Giorgio , Moretti Linda , Perna Alessandra , Candelaresi Daniele , Spazzafumo Giuseppe
Published: October 2021

In the context of the European decarbonization strategy, hydrogen is a key energy carrier in the medium to long term. The main advantages deriving from a greater penetration of hydrogen into the energy mix consist in its intrinsic characteristics of flexibility and integrability with alternative technologies for the production and consumption of energy. In particular, hydrogen allows to: i) decarbonise end uses, since it is a zero-emission energy carrier and can be produced with processes characterized by the absence of greenhouse gases emissions (e.g. water electrolysis); ii) help to balancing electricity grid supporting the integration of non-programmable renewable energy sources; iii) exploit the natural gas transmission and distribution networks as storage systems in overproduction periods. However, the hydrogen injection into the natural gas infrastructures directly influences thermophysical properties of the gas mixture itself, such as density, calorific value, Wobbe index, speed of sound, etc [1]. The change of the thermophysical properties of gaseous mixture, in turn, directly affects the end use service in terms of efficiency and safety as well as the metrological performance and reliability of the volume and gas quality measurement systems. In this paper, the authors present the results of a study about the impact of hydrogen injection on the properties of the natural gas mixture. In detail, the changes of the thermodynamic properties of the gaseous mixtures with different hydrogen content have been analysed. Moreover, the theoretical effects of the aforementioned variations on the accuracy of the compressibility factor measurement have been also assessed.
Feasibility analysis of an innovative naval on-board power-train system with hydrogen- based PEMFC technology
Authors: Di Micco Simona , Minutillo Mariagiovanna , Forcina Antonio , Cigolotti Viviana , Perna Alessandra
Published: October 2021

The maritime transportation sector is one of the main contributors to global emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter (PM), hazardous air pollutants, NOX and SOX. In particular, it is estimated that the CO2 emissions in this sector are about 1 Gt every year.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted stringent emission limits in its Tier III regulation, most notably on NOX and SOX emissions and pledged to reach a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipments by at least 50% by the year 2050, compared to 2008 emissions. For emission control areas (ECAs) these requirements are particularly strict and will be difficult to meet with traditional diesel engines and bunker fuels. Therefore, ship owners need to adopt solutions to bring emissions within these and other future limits by means of environmentally friendly fuels and high efficiency propulsion technologies. In this context, hydrogen and fuel cells play a crucial role, thanks to their low criteria pollutant and GHG emission.

This paper presents a techno-economic feasibility study for replacing the conventional diesel engine powertrain, usually employed in Ro-Pax ferries, with an innovative system based on polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) technology. The ferry is actually powered by four diesel engines, which deliver a total output of 37.8 MW. The ferry also has two auxiliary engines which give an output of 4.0 MW and also two 2.0 MW bow thrusters for its manoeuvring. The energy analysis has allowed to define the hydrogen consumption for each cruise, as well as the optimal size of the innovative propulsion system. In particular, The PEMFC powertrain is sized at the same maximum power output as the main diesel engine and, thanks to the modular architecture of fuel cells and their flexible performance at partial load, the auxiliary engines are not contemplated. Moreover, in order to identify the best solution in terms of ship’s weight and space requirements, two hydrogen storage solutions based on compressed hydrogen technology and liquefied hydrogen technology, have been analyzed and compared. The economic assessment has been carried out by estimating the CAPEX and OPEX for each H2 storage technology by considering short-term, mid-term and long-term scenarios (from 2020 to 2050).