bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of piezoelectric transducers in photoacoustic spectroscopy for trace gas analysis
Authors: Lv Haohua , Luo Huijian , Zheng Huadan , Zhu Wenguo , Fang Junbin , Yu Jianhui , Tittel Frank , Chen Zhe
Published: March 2021

Photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) is a boomingly developed spectroscopic method for trace gas analysis in the past decades. Unlike traditional laser absorption spectroscopy, an acoustic transducer is employed to detect the acoustic waves instead of optical waves. Microphone is a commonly used transducer to convert the acoustic signal into electrical signal, which is related to the gas concentration. In recent years, piezoelectric materials are playing important roles in the acoustic‐to‐electrical conversion process of photoacoustic system. In this article, recently used transducers in PAS such as quartz tuning fork, polyvinylidene fluoride, lead zirconate titanate, electromechanical film and LiNbO3, BiB3O6, NbCOB crystals are summarized and discussed in detail. The different spectrophone configuration, schematic diagram, and experimental system are reported. Side by side comparison is carried out to show the gas sensing performance of these piezoelectric transducers.
NMR relaxometry analysis of molecular degradation in internal combustion engine lubricants
Authors: Erro Eustaquio M. , Gerbino Leandro J. , Fraenza Carla C. , Anoardo Esteban
Published: March 2021

A set of experimental techniques headed by proton fast field‐cycling nuclear magnetic resonance (1HFFC‐NMR) were used to analyze the effects of degradation of lubricant oil used in an internal combustion engine (ICE). Its relaxometric, spectroscopic, and rheological properties were evaluated and interpreted in terms of changes in the chemical structure and the involved molecular dynamics. In order to better understand the relaxometric behavior, chemical changes induced by heat were investigated for selected n‐alkanes, as model‐systems due to their structural simplicity. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, viscosity measurements, and foaming were used to contrast NMR relaxometry experiments. Main observed changes associated with oil degradation can be attributed to molecular oxidation, fragmentation, and ramification. As an outstanding feature of this work, we show that the relaxometric analysis can be done without any special treatment of the sample, allowing results in less than 10 min.
Quantum chemical calculations of77Se and125Te nuclear magnetic resonance spectral parameters and their structural applications
Authors: Rusakova Irina L. , Rusakov Yuriy Yu.
Published: March 2021

An accurate quantum chemical (QC) modeling of77Se and125Te nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra is deeply involved in the NMR structural assignment for selenium and tellurium compounds that are of utmost importance both in organic and inorganic chemistry nowadays due to their huge application potential in many fields, like biology, medicine, and metallurgy. The main interest of this review is focused on the progress in QC computations of77Se and125Te NMR chemical shifts and indirect spin–spin coupling constants involving these nuclei. Different computational methodologies that have been used to simulate the NMR spectra of selenium and tellurium compounds since the middle of the 1990s are discussed with a strong emphasis on their accuracy. A special accent is placed on the calculations resorting to the relativistic methodologies, because taking into account the relativistic effects appreciably influences the precision of NMR calculations of selenium and, especially, tellurium compounds. Stereochemical applications of quantum chemical calculations of77Se and125Te NMR parameters are discussed so as to exemplify the importance of integrated approach of experimental and computational NMR techniques.
Joint image and field map estimation for multi‐echo hyperpolarized 13C metabolic imaging of the heart
Authors: Traechtler Julia , Vishnevskiy Valery , Fuetterer Maximilian , Kozerke Sebastian
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Image reconstruction of metabolic images from hyperpolarized 13C multi‐echo data acquisition is sensitive to susceptibility‐induced phase offsets, which are particularly challenging in the heart. A model‐based framework for joint estimation of metabolite images and field map from echo shift–encoded data is proposed. Using simulations, it is demonstrated that correction of signal spilling due to incorrect decomposition of metabolites and geometrical distortions over a wide range of off‐resonance gradients is possible. In vivo feasibility is illustrated using hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate in the pig heart.

Methods

The model‐based reconstruction for multi‐echo, multicoil data was implemented as a nonconvex minimization problem jointly optimizing for metabolic images and B0. A comprehensive simulation framework for echo shift–encoded hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate imaging was developed and applied to assess reconstruction performance and distortion correction of the proposed method. In vivo data were obtained in four pigs using hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate on a clinical 3T MR system with a six‐channel receiver coil. Dynamic images were acquired during suspended ventilation using cardiac‐triggered multi‐echo single‐shot echo‐planar imaging in short‐axis orientation.

Results

Simulations revealed that off‐resonance gradients up to ±0.26 ppm/pixel can be corrected for with reduced signal spilling and geometrical distortions yielding an accuracy of ≥90% in terms of Dice similarity index. In vivo, improved geometrical consistency (10% Dice improvement) compared to image reconstruction without field map correction and with reference to anatomical data was achieved.

Conclusion

Joint image and field map estimation allows addressing off‐resonance‐induced geometrical distortions and metabolite spilling in hyperpolarized 13C metabolic imaging of the heart.
Is cerebrospinal fluid amyloid‐β42 a promising biomarker of response to nusinersen in adult spinal muscular atrophy patients?
Authors: Introna Alessandro , Milella Giammarco , D'Errico Eustachio , Fraddosio Angela , Scaglione Gaspare , Ucci Maria , Ruggieri Maddalena , Simone Isabella Laura
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Nusinersen was approved as the first treatment for all types of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), including adults with SMA types 2 and 3. Robust biomarkers of treatment response in SMA adults are lacking. Our aim was to examine cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) amyloid‐β40 (Aβ40) and amyloid‐β42 (Aβ42) peptides as biomarkers of treatment response.

Methods

Eight patients with SMA types 2 and 3 were recruited consecutively in a single‐center study. CSF was sampled at baseline, after a loading dose, and after three maintenance doses. Levels of Aβ42 and Aβ40 were evaluated for each CSF sampling. Wilcoxon matched‐pairs signed‐rank test was used to detect longitudinal changes.

Results

CSF levels of Aβ42 increased from baseline to day 420 (95% confidence interval, P = .018), with a significant increase at days 180 and 420 compared with days 0 and 300, respectively (95% confidence interval, P = .012 and P = .018).

Discussion

The maintenance and promotion of wellness of residual motor neurons mediated by the restored level of SMN protein due to nusinersen could result in an increased level of amyloid peptides.
Revealing of process–structure–property relationships of fine polypropylene fiber mats generated via melt blowing
Authors: Kara Yahya , Molnár Kolos
Published: March 2021

In this study, we presented systematic and comparative investigations on the structure of polypropylene fibers generated using different processing conditions via melt blowing. Increasing air pressure, die‐to‐collector distance, and air temperature reduced the average fiber diameter nearly 3‐fold, 2‐fold, and 1.75‐fold, respectively. An average of 1.4 μm Feret‐diameter was observed as the smallest pore size, while the fiber mat solidities ranged from 8 to 13%. Differential scanning calorimetry results showed single melting peaks in the 1st heating cycle and double melting peaks in the second one, due to the phase transition at melt blowing. The fiber crystallinities varied between 43 and 52% by changing the processing conditions. The X‐ray diffraction study revealed that the MB fibers exhibited α and mesomorphic crystals depending on the processing parameters. The reference polypropylene sheet made of the same fiber grade polypropylene resin, on the other hand, exhibited a mix of α and γ crystalline forms. The polypropylene fiber mat tensile strength improved by 48% and by 13% with increasing air pressure and air temperature, respectively. Decreasing fiber collection distances resulted in 2.5‐fold higher tensile strength while strain at break reduced eightfold. A new factor, mat consolidation coefficient, was introduced and used to efficiently summarize melt‐blown fiber mats' process–property–structure relationships. This study details how to control the melt blowing parameters to tailor the polypropylene fiber mat features for the respective application field. It also presents an insight into fiber formation mechanisms during melt blowing for generating self‐bonded, defect‐free, fine fiber mats.
Extracorporeal treatments for isoniazid poisoning: Systematic review and recommendations from the EXTRIP workgroup
Authors: Mowry James B. , Shepherd Greene , Hoffman Robert S. , Lavergne Valery , Gosselin Sophie , Nolin Thomas D. , Vijayan Anitha , Kielstein Jan T. , Roberts Darren M. , Ghannoum Marc ,   for the Extracorporeal Treatments in Poisoning workgroup
Published: March 2021

Isoniazid toxicity from self‐poisoning or dosing errors remains common in regions of the world where tuberculosis is prevalent. Although the treatment of isoniazid poisoning is centered on supportive care and pyridoxine administration, extracorporeal treatments (ECTRs), such as hemodialysis, have been advocated to enhance elimination of isoniazid. No systematic reviews or evidence‐based recommendations currently exist on the benefit of ECTRs for isoniazid poisoning. The Extracorporeal Treatments in Poisoning (EXTRIP) workgroup systematically collected and rated the available evidence on the effect of and indications for ECTRs in cases of isoniazid poisoning. We conducted a systematic review of the literature, screened studies, extracted data on study characteristics, outcomes, and measurement characteristics, summarized findings, and formulated recommendations following published EXTRIP methods. Forty‐three studies (two animal studies, 34 patient reports or patient series, and seven pharmacokinetic studies) met inclusion criteria. Toxicokinetic or pharmacokinetic analysis was available for 60 patients, most treated with hemodialysis (n = 38). The workgroup assessed isoniazid as “Moderately Dialyzable” by hemodialysis for patients with normal kidney function (quality of evidence = C) and “Dialyzable” by hemodialysis for patients with impaired kidney function (quality of evidence = A). Clinical data for ECTR in isoniazid poisoning were available for 40 patients. Mortality of the cohort was 12.5%. Historical controls who received modern standard care including appropriately dosed pyridoxine generally had excellent outcomes. No benefit could be extrapolated from ECTR, although there was evidence of added costs and harms related to the double lumen catheter insertion, the extracorporeal procedure itself, and the extracorporeal removal of pyridoxine. The EXTRIP workgroup suggests against performing ECTR in addition to standard care (weak recommendation, very low quality of evidence) in patients with isoniazid poisoning. If standard dose pyridoxine cannot be administered, we suggest performing ECTR only in patients with seizures refractory to GABAA receptor agonists (weak recommendation, very low quality of evidence).
Breath figure‐derived porous fluorine‐containing poly(ether sulfone) membranes with low dielectric constant
Authors: Zhang Chongyang , Li Mengzhu , Sun Handong , Yue Xigui
Published: March 2021

As an important part of electronic packaging materials, low‐dielectric materials can ensure effective signal transmission between electronic components and have an impact on the performance of microprocessor chips. Herein, a porous poly(ether sulfone) membrane with low dielectric constant is fabricated via a breath figure method to meet requirements for high performance of new packaging materials. Perfluorononyl oxide side groups are introduced into the molecular structure of a block poly(ether sulfone) polymer by post‐grafting, and the pore‐making process and the dielectric properties of the materials are studied. The resulting multi‐block copolymers are found to have different electric and thermal properties depending on the molar ratio of perfluorononyl oxide side groups. Regular honeycomb pores can be formed with a polymer segment length of 8/16. Besides, the porous membranes with ordered pore structure on the surface possess low dielectric constant values ranging from 1.57 to 2.19 at 10 kHz. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Synthesis and formulation of self‐immolative PEG‐aryl azide block copolymers and click‐to‐release reactivity with trans‐cyclooctene
Authors: Dadhwal Sumit , Lee Arnold , Goswami Shailesh K. , Hook Sarah , Gamble Allan B.
Published: March 2021

Self‐immolative aryl azides can react with trans‐cyclooctenes (TCO), triphenylphosphines or hydrogen sulfide (H2S) to activate prodrugs, imaging probes and drug delivery systems. To date, the synthesis of polymers containing these aryl azide self‐immolative linkers and their reactivity with a strained alkene (i.e., in a bioorthogonal reaction) has not been explored. Also, due to the instability of aryl azides towards light and high temperatures, the polymerization methods compatible with aryl azides are limited. Through systematic investigation of the reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) methods, a self‐immolative PEG‐aryl azide block copolymer (PEG45‐b‐ABOC28 2) and a non‐responsive 4‐fluoroaryl block copolymer (PEG45‐b‐FBOC24 3) was prepared. ATRP provided the desired polymers in a highly controlled manner, whereas the RAFT conditions led to higher levels of aryl azide polymer degradation. The ATRP derived polymers 2 and 3 were formulated into nanoparticles of approximately 200 nm diameter, and particle triggering was demonstrated by the [3+2]‐cycloaddition reaction of TCO with PEG45‐b‐ABOC28 2 in solution (pure polymer) and as a formulated nanoparticle. Preliminary in vitro cell viability studies suggested that the stimuli‐responsive aryl azide polymers/nanoparticles are not cytotoxic up to 200 μg/ml concentrations.
Modeling of Accelerating Universe with Bulk Viscous Fluid in Bianchi V Space‐Time
Authors: Goswami G. K. , Yadav Anil Kumar , Mishra B. , Tripathy S. K.
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we have investigated a bulk viscous anisotropic Universe and constrained its model parameters with recent and Pantheon compilation data. Using cosmic chronometric technique, we estimate the present value of Hubble's constant as , and by bounding our derived model with recent data, Pantheon and joint and Pantheon data respectively. The present age of the Universe is specified as Gyrs. The model favours a transitioning Universe with the transition red‐shift as . We have reconstructed the jerk parameter using the observational data sets. From the analysis of the jerk parameter, it is observed that, our derived model shows a marginal departure from the concordance ΛCDM model.
Engineered expression of the invertebrate‐specific scorpion toxin AaHIT reduces adult longevity and female fecundity in the diamondback moth Plutella xylostella
Authors: Harvey‐Samuel Tim , Xu Xuejiao , Lovett Erica , Dafa'alla Tarig , Walker Adam , Norman Victoria C , Carter Ruth , Teal Joss , Akilan Luxziyah , Leftwich Philip T , Reitmayer Christine M , Siddiqui Hamid A , Alphey Luke
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Previous genetic pest management (GPM) systems in diamondback moth (DBM) have relied on expressing lethal proteins (‘effectors’) that are ‘cell‐autonomous’, that is, they do not leave the cell in which they are expressed. To increase the flexibility of future GPM systems in DBM, we aimed to assess the use of a non‐cell‐autonomous, invertebrate‐specific, neurotoxic effector – the scorpion toxin AaHIT. This AaHIT effector was designed to be secreted by expressing cells, potentially leading to effects on distant cells, specifically neuromuscular junctions.

RESULTS

Expression of AaHIT caused a ‘shaking/quivering’ phenotype that could be repressed by provision of an antidote (tetracycline): a phenotype consistent with the AaHIT mode‐of‐action. This effect was more pronounced when AaHIT expression was driven by the Hr5/ie1 promoter (82.44% of males, 65.14% of females) rather than Op/ie2 (57.35% of males, 48.39% of females). Contrary to expectations, the shaking phenotype and observed fitness costs were limited to adults in which they caused severe reductions in mean longevity (−81%) and median female fecundity (−93%). Quantitative polymerase chain reactions of AaHIT expression patterns and analysis of piggyBac‐mediated transgene insertion sites suggest that restriction of the observed effects to the adult stages may be due to the influence of the local genomic environment on the tetO‐AaHIT transgene.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated the feasibility of using non‐cell‐autonomous effectors within a GPM context for the first time in Lepidoptera, one of the most economically damaging orders of insects. These findings provide a framework for extending this system to other pest Lepidoptera and to other secreted effectors. © 2021 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Prospect and Status of Polyanionic Lithium Cobalt Silicates as High Energy‐Density and Safe Cathode Materials for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Du Wenqiang , Zhang Zhifeng , Chen Zhenlian , Li Jun
Published: March 2021

Lithium cobalt silicate Li2CoSiO4 (LCSO) is a promising but challenging high energy‐density cathode for lithium‐ion battery. Herein, recent studies of synthesis–structure–performance of LCSO are reported, in which carbon coating, element doping, and nanostructure designs are incorporated in a two‐step synthesis starting with hydrothermal reaction. The initial performance is significantly improved with respect to previous reports in literature with the charge and discharge capacities now reaching 330 and 220 mAh g−1, respectively. The discharge voltage platform is compatible with the 4 V window of the nonaqueous organic electrolytes and presents no structural‐change‐induced voltage drops. The striking finding from the study of LCSO is the oxygen redox activity amid the second lithium deintercalation process, in which peroxo formation dominates the charge compensation to the high‐voltage lithium capacity. First‐principles modeling reveals an intrinsic and general relation between oxygen redox and cationic disorder in bulk compounds. Thus, LCSO is a new prototype of polyanionic materials with oxygen redox, which is the foundation of high‐capacity Li‐rich cathodes. This review is also aimed to narrate the progresses of LCSO within a broad domain of Li3PO4‐based polyanionic structures that support the development of solid‐state electrolytes for all solid‐state batteries.
Nitrogen isotope analysis of aqueous ammonium and nitrate by membrane inlet isotope ratio mass spectrometry (MIRMS) at natural abundance levels
Authors: Dyckmans Jens , Eschenbach Wolfram , Langel Reinhard , Szwec Lars , Well Reinhard
Published: March 2021

Rationale

Existing methods for the measurement of the 15N/14N isotopic composition of ammonium and nitrate are either only suitable for labelled samples or require considerable sample preparation efforts (or both). Our goal was to modify an existing analytical approach to allow for natural abundance precision levels.

Methods

Published reaction protocols were used to convert ammonium into N2 by NaOBr and nitrate into N2O by TiCl3. A membrane inlet system was developed and coupled to an isotope ratio mass spectrometer to allow precise determination of the analytes.

Results

Concentrations of ≥35 μmol/L N for both ammonium or nitrate could be analysed for δ15N values with precisions of better than 0.9 mUr. While ammonium analyses exhibited a small concentration dependency and an offset of 2.7 mUr at high ammonium concentrations irrespective of the standard isotopic composition, nitrate analysis showed no offset but a blank contribution visible at very low concentrations.

Conclusions

The presented method is capable of fast measurement of δ15N values in ammonium and nitrate from aqueous samples with reasonable accuracy at natural abundance levels. It will thus facilitate the application of isotopic methods to studies of nitrogen cycling in ecosystems.
Continuous and simultaneous measurement of triple‐oxygen and hydrogen isotopes of liquid and vapor during evaporation experiments
Authors: Brady Matthew P. , Hodell David A.
Published: March 2021

Rationale

Oxygen and hydrogen isotopes are important tools for studying the modern and past hydrological cycle. Previous evaporation experiments used episodic measurement of liquid and/or vapor or did not measure all isotopologues of water. Here, we describe an evaporation experimental system that allows all isotopologues of liquid and water vapor to be measured simultaneously and near‐continuously at high precision using cavity ring‐down laser spectroscopy (CRDS).

Methods

Evaporating liquid is periodically sampled from a closed recirculating loop by a syringe pump that delivers a constant supply of water to the vaporizer, achieving a water vapor concentration of 20,000 ppmV H2O (±132, 1σ). Vapor is sampled directly from the evaporation chamber. Isotope ratios are measured simultaneously with a Picarro L2140‐i CRDS instrument.

Results

For liquid measurements, Allan variance analysis indicates an optimum data collection window of 34 min for oxygen isotopes and 27 min for hydrogen isotopes. During these periods, the mean standard error is ±0.0081‰ for δ17O values, ±0.0081‰ for δ18O values, and ±0.019‰ for δ2H values. For the derived parameters 17O‐excess and d‐excess, the standard error of the mean is 5.8 per meg and 0.07‰, respectively. For the vapor phase a 12.5 min data window for all isotopologues results in a mean standard error of ±0.012‰ for δ17O values, ±0.011‰ for δ18O values, and ±0.023‰ for δ2H values. For the derived parameters, the standard error of the mean is 9.2 per meg for 17O‐excess and 0.099‰ for d‐excess. These measurements result in consistently narrow 95% confidence limits for the slopes of ln(δ17O + 1) vs ln(δ18O + 1) and ln(δ2H + 1) vs ln(δ18O + 1).

Conclusions

The experimental method permits measurement of fractionation of triple‐oxygen and hydrogen isotopes of evaporating water under varying controlled conditions at high precision. Application of this method will be useful for testing theoretical models of evaporation and conducting experiments to simulate evaporation and isotopic equilibration in natural systems.
Neural networks‐based sliding mode tracking control for the four wheel‐legged robot under uncertain interaction
Authors: Li Jing , Wu Qingbin , Wang Junzheng , Li Jiehao
Published: March 2021

When considering the accuracy of tracking control, physical interaction such as structural uncertainties and external dynamics is the main challenge in actual engineering scenarios, especially for the complex robot system. In this article, a neural network‐based sliding mode tracking control scheme (SMCR) is presented for the developed four wheel‐legged robot (BIT‐NAZA) under the uncertain interaction. First, a non‐singular fast terminal function based on the kinematic model is proposed for path tracking, which improves the motion quality during the approach movement and the sliding mode movement. At the same time, it can reduce the influence of uncertain disturbances on the premise of ensuring the path tracking control accuracy via neural networks. Finally, some demonstrations using the autonomous platform of the BIT‐NAZA robot are employed to evaluate the robustness and effectiveness of the hybrid algorithm.
Numerical design of Lyapunov functions for a class of homogeneous discontinuous systems
Authors: Mendoza‐Avila Jesús , Efimov Denis , Ushirobira Rosane , Moreno Jaime A.
Published: March 2021

This paper deals with the analytical and numerical design of a Lyapunov function for homogeneous and discontinuous systems. First, the presented converse theorems provide two analytic expressions of homogeneous and locally Lipschitz continuous Lyapunov functions for homogeneous discontinuous systems of negative homogeneity degree, generalizing classical results. Second, a methodology for the numerical construction of those Lyapunov functions is extended to the class of systems under consideration. Finally, the developed theory is applied to the numerical design of a Lyapunov function for some higher‐order sliding mode algorithms.
Role and Contribution of Polymeric Additives in Perovskite Solar Cells: Crystal Growth Templates and Grain Boundary Passivators
Authors: Kim Kyusun , Han Jiye , Maruyama Shigeo , Balaban Milica , Jeon Il
Published: March 2021

Polymers or polymeric materials are used as additives for promoting the nucleation and crystallization of perovskite films to increase the crystal grain size. Due to their high molecular weight, polymers remain within perovskite‐crystal grain boundaries (GBs), where they passivate trap sites. Furthermore, some polymers function as charge‐transport materials in interfacial layers to effectively separate charge carriers and reduce charge recombination. Certain hydrophobic polymers protect perovskite films against moisture, whereas elastic polymers contribute to the mechanical resilience of perovskite films by crosslinking and self‐healing. Although polymeric additives have become essential to perovskite fabrication, a thorough review has not summarized their application to perovskite solar cells. Therefore, various strategies are comprehensively discussed for incorporating typical polymers and 1D polymeric materials into perovskite materials to improve the efficiency and stability of perovskite devices. Herein, thermoplastic, hydrophilic, and conductive polymers and elastomers are focused and related works are chronologically discussed to clearly elucidate the advances in perovskite devices.
Nanoparticle Assembling Dynamics Induced by Pulsed Optical Force
Authors: Jui‐Kai Chen Jim , Chiang Wei‐Yi , Kudo Tetsuhiro , Usman Anwar , Masuhara Hiroshi
Published: March 2021

Femtosecond (fs) laser trapping dynamics is summarized for silica, hydrophobically modified silica, and polystyrene nanoparticles (NPs) in aqueous solution, highlighting their distinct optical trapping dynamics under CW laser. Mutually repulsive silica nanoparticles are tightly confined under fs laser compared to CW laser trapping and, upon increasing laser power, they are ejected from the focus as an assembly. Hydrophobically modified silica and polystyrene (PS) NPs are sequentially ejected just like a stream or ablated, giving bubbles. The ejection and bubbling take place with the direction perpendicular to laser polarization and its direction is randomly switched from one to the other. These characteristic features are interpreted from the viewpoint of single assembly formation of NPs at an asymmetric position in the optical potential. Temporal change in optical forces map is prepared for a single PS NP by calculating scattering, gradient, and temporal forces. The relative contribution of the forces changes with the volume increase of the assembly and, when the pushing force along the trapping pulse propagation overcome the gradient in the focal plane, the assembly undergoes the ejection. Further fs multiphoton absorption is induced for the larger assembly leading to bubble generation. The assembling, ejection, and bubbling dynamics of NPs are characteristic features of pulsed optical force and are considered as a new platform for developing new material fabrication method.
Multi‐objective orderly charging strategy for electric vehicles based on interactive network model
Authors: Wang Lu , Wan Youhong , Cao Weitao , Cao Yuhang
Published: March 2021

In order to solve the shortcomings of traditional orderly charging strategy, such as the inability to accurately respond to EV load, the difficulty to formulate an effective charging strategy and the lack of positive response from users. In this paper, a novel interactive network model of distribution network and electric vehicles is constructed. The optimization factor is assigned to the charging station, so that the scheduling for electric vehicles is no longer random. Further based on the time‐of‐use price for the charging, the multi‐objective orderly charging model from the point of both users and power grid is established. The minimum charge cost and the minimum variance of load are taken as the multi‐ objective function with the constraints of charging demand and rated capacity of transformer. Finally, the simulation by NSGA‐II on different numbers of electric vehicles shows that the proposed orderly charging strategy can significantly reduce the charging cost and load peak valley for a certain scale of electric vehicles charging. It is beneficial to ensure the safety and stability of the distribution network and improve users satisfaction. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Genetic and QTL mapping in African bermudagrass
Authors: Yu Shuhao , Fang Tilin , Dong Hongxu , Yan Liuling , Martin Dennis L. , Moss Justin Q. , Fontanier Charles H. , Wu Yanqi
Published: March 2021

Cynodon transvaalensis Burtt‐Davy is frequently used to cross with C. dactylon Pers. in the creation of F1 hybrid cultivars that are some of the most widely used in the worldwide turf industry. However, molecular resource development in this species is limited. Accordingly, the objectives of this study were to construct a high‐density genetic map, and to identify genomic regions associated with establishment rate. In this study, we constructed the first high‐density linkage map for African bermudagrass using a genotyping by sequencing approach based on 109 S1 progenies. A total of 1,246 single nucleotide polymorphisms and 32 simple sequence repeat markers were integrated in the linkage map. The total length of nine linkage groups was 882.3 cM, with an average distance of 0.69 cM per interval. Four genomic regions were identified to be associated with sod establishment rate. The results provide important genetic resources towards understanding the genome as well as marker‐assisted selection for improving the establishment rate in bermudagrass breeding.
Genomic prediction enables rapid selection of high‐performing genets in an intermediate wheatgrass breeding program
Authors: Crain Jared , DeHaan Lee , Poland Jesse
Published: March 2021

In an era of constrained and depleted natural resources, perennial grains could provide sustainable food production along with beneficial ecosystem services like reduced erosion and increased atmospheric carbon capture. Intermediate wheatgrass (IWG) [Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D. R. Dewey subsp. intermedium] has been undergoing continuous breeding for domestication to develop a perennial grain crop since the 1980s. As a perennial, IWG has required 2–5 yr per selection generation, but starting in 2017, genomic selection (GS) was initiated in the breeding program at The Land Institute, Salina, KS (TLI), enabling one complete cycle per year. For each cycle, ∼4,000 seedlings were profiled using genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS) and genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs) were calculated. Selection based on GEBVs identified ∼100 individuals to advance as parents each generation, while validation populations of 1,000–1,200 genets for GS model training were also selected using the genomic relationship matrix to represent genetic diversity in each cycle. The selected parents were randomly intermated in a greenhouse crossing block to form the subsequent cycle, while the validation populations were transplanted to irrigated and nonirrigated field sites for phenotypic evaluations in the following years. For priority breeding traits of seed mass, free threshing, and nonshattering, correlations between predicted values and observed data were >.5. The realized selection differential ranged from 11–23% for selected traits, and the expected genetic gains for these traits, including spike yield, ranged from 6 to 14% per year. Genomic selection is a powerful tool to speed the domestication and development of IWG and other perennial crops with extended breeding timelines.
A Formal Model for Emulating the Generation of Human Knowledge in Semantic Memory
Authors: Cerone Antonio , Pluck Graham
Published: March 2021

The transfer of information processed by human beings from their short-term memory (STM) to their semantic memory creates two kinds of knowledge: a semantic network of associations and a structured set of rules to govern human deliberate behaviour under explicit attention. This paper focuses on the memory processes that create the first of these two kinds of knowledge. Human memory storage and processing are modeled using the Real-time Maude rewrite language. Maude’s capability of specifying complex data structures as many sorted algebras and the time features of Real-Time Maude are exploited for (1) providing a means for formalising alternative memory models, (2) modelling in silico experiments to compare and validate such models. We aim at using our model for the comparison of alternative cognitive hypothesis and theories and the analysis of interactive systems.
The Grassmannian-like coset model and the higher spin currents
Authors: Ahn Changhyun
Published: March 2021

Abstract

In the Grassmannian-like coset model, $$ \frac{\mathrm{SU}{\left(N+M\right)}_k}{\mathrm{SU}{(N)}_k\times \mathrm{U}{(1)}_{kNM\left(N+M\right)}} $$

SU

N
+
M

k

SU

N

k

×
U

1

kNM

N
+
M

, Creutzig and Hikida have found the charged spin-2, 3 currents and the neutral spin-2, 3 currents previously. In this paper, as an extension of Gaberdiel-Gopakumar conjecture found ten years ago, we calculate the operator product expansion (OPE) between the charged spin-2 current and itself, the OPE between the charged spin-2 current and the charged spin-3 current and the OPE between the neutral spin-3 current and itself for generic N, M and k. From the second OPE, we obtain the new charged quasi primary spin-4 current while from the last one, the new neutral primary spin-4 current is found implicitly. The infinity limit of k in the structure constants of the OPEs is described in the context of asymptotic symmetry of MM matrix generalization of AdS3 higher spin theory. Moreover, the OPE between the charged spin-3 current and itself is determined for fixed (N, M) = (5, 4) with arbitrary k up to the third order pole. We also obtain the OPEs between charged spin-1, 2, 3 currents and neutral spin-3 current. From the last OPE, we realize that there exists the presence of the above charged quasi primary spin-4 current in the second order pole for fixed (N, M) = (5, 4). We comment on the complex free fermion realization.
General anomaly matching by Goldstone bosons
Authors: Yonekura Kazuya
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We describe how Goldstone bosons of spontaneous symmetry breakingG→Hcan reproduce anomalies of UV theories under the symmetry groupGat the nonpertur- bative level. This is done by giving a general definition of Wess-Zumino-Witten terms in terms of the invertible field theories ind+ 1 dimensions which describe the anomalies ofd-dimensional UV theories. The hidden local symmetry$$ \hat{H} $$Ĥ, which is used to describe Goldstone bosons in coset constructionG/H, plays an important role. Our definition also naturally leads to generalizedθ-angles of the hidden local gauge group$$ \hat{H} $$Ĥ. We illustrate this point by SO(Nc) (or Spin(Nc)) QCD-like theories in four dimensions.
Infinite decreasing chains in the Mitchell order
Authors: Ben-Neria Omer , Müller Sandra
Published: March 2021

It is known that the behavior of the Mitchell order substantially changes at the level of rank-to-rank extenders, as it ceases to be well-founded. While the possible partial order structure of the Mitchell order below rank-to-rank extenders is considered to be well understood, little is known about the structure in the ill-founded case. The purpose of the paper is to make a first step in understanding this case, by studying the extent to which the Mitchell order can be ill-founded. Our main results are (i) in the presence of a rank-to-rank extender there is a transitive Mitchell order decreasing sequence of extenders of any countable length, and (ii) there is no such sequence of length $$\omega _1$$

ω
1

.
Acute alcohol does not impair attentional inhibition as measured with Stroop interference scores but impairs Stroop performance
Authors: Riedel P. , Wolff M. , Spreer M. , Petzold J. , Plawecki M. H. , Goschke T. , Zimmermann U. S. , Smolka M. N.
Published: March 2021

Rationale

Inhibition is a core executive function and refers to the ability to deliberately suppress attention, behavior, thoughts, and/or emotions and instead act in a specific manner. While acute alcohol exposure has been shown to impair response inhibition in the stop-signal and Go/NoGo tasks, reported alcohol effects on attentional inhibition in the Stroop task are inconsistent. Notably, studies have operationalized attentional inhibition variably and there has been intra- and inter-individual variability in alcohol exposure.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the acute effects of alcohol on attentional inhibition, considering previous limitations.

Methods

In a single-blind, cross-over design, 40 non-dependent participants with a medium-to-high risk drinking behavior performed a Counting Stroop task (CST) under a baseline and an arterial blood alcohol concentration (aBAC) clamp at 80 mg%. Attentional inhibition was assessed as the alteration of reaction times (RT), error rates (ER), and inverse efficiency scores (IES) between incongruent and congruent trials (interference score). Stroop performance was also assessed regardless of trial-type.

Results

Compared to saline, acute alcohol exposure via an aBAC clamp did not affect CST interference scores but increased RTs and IES in both incongruent and congruent trials.

Conclusions

Attentional inhibition (Stroop interference score) was not impaired by clamped moderate alcohol exposure. Acute alcohol impaired Stroop performance evidenced by a general increase in response times. Our findings suggest that response and attentional inhibition do not share the same neurocognitive mechanisms and are affected differently by alcohol. Results could also be explained by automated behaviors known to be relatively unaffected by acute alcohol.
A comparison of toxic and essential elements in edible wild and cultivated mushroom species
Authors: Mleczek Mirosław , Budka Anna , Siwulski Marek , Mleczek Patrycja , Budzyńska Sylwia , Proch Jędrzej , Gąsecka Monika , Niedzielski Przemysław , Rzymski Piotr
Published: March 2021

The multi-elemental composition of 4 edible wild-growing mushroom species that commonly occur in Polish forests was compared to 13 cultivated mushroom species available in trade. A considerable variation in the macroelements content was revealed with cultivated species containing higher amounts of macroelements. The mean content of B, Co, Cr, Fe, Pb, Pr, Pt, Sb, Sm, Sr, Te, and Tm was higher in cultivated mushroom species, while the opposite was noted for Ba, Cd, Cu, Hg, La, Mo, Sc, and Zn. Selected cultivated forms exhibited increased content of Al (F. velutipes), As (H. marmoreus, F. velutipes), Ni (P. ostreatus, A. polytricha, H. marmoreus), and Pb (P. ostreatus, A. polytricha, F. velupites, and L. edodes). Wild-growing species, B. boletus, I. badia, and S. bovinus contained high Hg levels, close to or exceeding tolerable intakes. Compared to cultivated mushrooms, they also generally revealed a significantly increased content of Al (with the highest content in B. edulis and I. badia), As and Cd (with the highest content in B. edulis and S. bovinus in both cases). In turn, the cultivated mushrooms were characterized by a higher content of Ni (particularly in A. bisporus) and Pb (with the highest content in P. eryngii). The exposure risks may, however, differ between wild and cultivated mushrooms since the former are consumed seasonally (although in some regions at a high level), while the latter are available throughout the year. Both cultivated and wild-growing mushrooms were found to be a poor source of Ca and Mg, and only a supplemental source of K, Cu, Fe, and Zn in the human diet. These results suggest that mushrooms collected from the wild or cultivated, should be consumed sparingly. The study advocates for more strict monitoring measures of the content of toxic metals/metalloids in mushrooms distributed as food, preferentially through the establishment of maximum allowance levels not limited only to a few elements and mushroom species.
How arginine derivatives alter the stability of lipid membranes: dissecting the roles of side chains, backbone and termini
Authors: Verbeek Sarah F. , Awasthi Neha , Teiwes Nikolas K. , Mey Ingo , Hub Jochen S. , Janshoff Andreas
Published: March 2021

Arginine (R)-rich peptides constitute the most relevant class of cell-penetrating peptides and other membrane-active peptides that can translocate across the cell membrane or generate defects in lipid bilayers such as water-filled pores. The mode of action of R-rich peptides remains a topic of controversy, mainly because a quantitative and energetic understanding of arginine effects on membrane stability is lacking. Here, we explore the ability of several oligo-arginines R$$_n$$

n

and of an arginine side chain mimic R$$_\mathrm {Side}$$

Side

to induce pore formation in lipid bilayers employing MD simulations, free-energy calculations, breakthrough force spectroscopy and leakage assays. Our experiments reveal that R$$_\mathrm {Side}$$

Side

but not R$$_n$$

n

reduces the line tension of a membrane with anionic lipids. While R$$_n$$

n

peptides form a layer on top of a partly negatively charged lipid bilayer, R$$_\mathrm {Side}$$

Side

leads to its disintegration. Complementary, our simulations show R$$_\mathrm {Side}$$

Side

causes membrane thinning and area per lipid increase beside lowering the pore nucleation free energy. Model polyarginine R$$_8$$

8

similarly promoted pore formation in simulations, but without overall bilayer destabilization. We conclude that while the guanidine moiety is intrinsically membrane-disruptive, poly-arginines favor pore formation in negatively charged membranes via a different mechanism. Pore formation by R-rich peptides seems to be counteracted by lipids with PC headgroups. We found that long R$$_n$$

n

and R$$_\mathrm {Side}$$

Side

but not short R$$_n$$

n

reduce the free energy of nucleating a pore. In short R$$_n$$

n

, the substantial effect of the charged termini prevent their membrane activity, rationalizing why only longer $$\mathrm {R}_{n}$$

R
n

are membrane-active.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Frail Geriatric Trauma Patients
Authors: Anand Tanya , Khurrum Muhammad , Chehab Mohamad , Bible Letitia , Asmar Samer , Douglas Molly , Ditillo Michael , Gries Lynn , Joseph Bellal
Published: March 2021

Background

Frailty in geriatric trauma patients is commonly associated with adverse outcomes. Racial disparities in geriatric trauma patients are previously described in the literature. We aimed to assess whether race and ethnicity influence outcomes in frail geriatric trauma patients.

Methods

We performed a 1‐year (2017) analysis of TQIP including all geriatric (age ≥ 65 years) trauma patients. The frailty index was calculated using 11‐variables and a cutoff limit of 0.27 was defined for frail status. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to control for demographics, insurance status, injury parameters, vital signs, and ICU and hospital length of stay.

Results

We included 41,111 frail geriatric trauma patients. In terms of race, among frail geriatric trauma patients, 35,376 were Whites and 2916 were African Americans; in terms of ethnicity, 37,122 were Non‐Hispanics and 2184 were Hispanics. On regression analysis, the White race was associated with higher odds of mortality (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.2–2.0; p < 0.01) and in‐hospital complications (OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1–1.9; p < 0.01). White patients were more likely to be discharged to SNF (OR, 1.2; 95% CI, 1.1–1.4; p = 0.03) and less likely to be discharged home (p = 0.04) compared to African Americans. Non‐Hispanics were more likely to be discharged to SNF (OR, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.1–1.5; p < 0.01) and less likely to be discharged home (p < 0.01) as compared to Hispanics. No significant difference in in‐hospital mortality was seen between Hispanics and Non‐Hispanics.

Conclusion

Race and ethnicity influence outcomes in frail geriatric trauma patients. These disparities exist regardless of age, gender, injury severity, and insurance status. Further studies are needed to highlight disparities by race and ethnicity and to identify potentially modifiable risk factors in the geriatric trauma population.
Impact of effective regurgitant orifice area on outcome of secondary mitral regurgitation transcatheter repair
Authors:   for the EuroSMR investigators, Karam Nicole , Orban Mathias , Kalbacher Daniel , Butter Christian , Praz Fabien , Lubos Edith , Bannehr Marwin , Kassar Mohammad , Petrescu Aniela , Iliadis Christos , Unterhuber Matthias , Asselin Anouk , Thiele Holger , Pfister Roman , Windecker Stephan , Lurz Philipp , von Bardeleben Stephan , Hausleiter Jörg
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To assess the value of effective regurgitant orifice (ERO) in predicting outcome after edge-to-edge transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) for secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR) and identify the optimal cut-off for patients’ selection.

Methods

Using the EuroSMR (European Registry of Transcatheter Repair for Secondary Mitral Regurgitation) registry, that included patients undergoing edge-to-edge TMVR for SMR between November 2008 and January 2019 in 8 experienced European centres, we assessed the optimal ERO threshold associated with mortality in SMR patients undergoing TMVR, and compared characteristics and outcomes of patients according to baseline ERO.

Results

Among 1062 patients with severe SMR and ERO quantification by proximal isovelocity surface area method in the registry, ERO was < 0.3 cm2 in 575 patients (54.1%), who were more symptomatic at baseline (NYHA class ≥ III: 91.4% vs. 86.9%, for ERO < vs. ≥ 0.3 cm2; P = 0.004). There was no difference in all-cause mortality at 2-year follow-up according to baseline ERO (28.3% vs. 30.0% for ERO < vs. ≥ 0.3 cm2, P = 0.585). Both patient groups demonstrated significant improvement of at least one NYHA class (61.7% and 73.8%, P = 0.002), resulting in a prevalence of NYHA class ≤ II at 1-year follow-up of 60.0% and 67.4% for ERO < vs. ≥ 0.3 cm2, respectively (P = 0.05).

Conclusion

All-cause mortality at 2 years after TMVR does not differ if baseline ERO is < or ≥ 0.3 cm2, and both groups exhibit relevant clinical improvements. Accordingly, TMVR should not be withheld from patients with ERO < 0.3 cm2 who remain symptomatic despite optimal medical treatment, if TMVR appropriateness was determined by experienced teams in dedicated valve centres.