bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LOX-1 and cancer: an indissoluble liaison
Authors: Murdocca M. , De Masi C. , Pucci S. , Mango R. , Novelli G. , Di Natale C. , Sangiuolo F.
Published: January 2021

Recently, a strong correlation between metabolic disorders, tumor onset, and progression has been demonstrated, directing new therapeutic strategies on metabolic targets.OLR1gene encodes the LOX-1 receptor protein, responsible for the recognition, binding, and internalization of ox-LDL. In the past, several studied, aimed to clarify the role of LOX-1 receptor in atherosclerosis, shed light on its role in the stimulation of the expression of adhesion molecules, pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, and pro-angiogenic proteins, including NF-kB and VEGF, in vascular endothelial cells and macrophages. In recent years, LOX-1 upregulation in different tumors evidenced its involvement in cancer onset, progression and metastasis. In this review, we outline the role of LOX-1 in tumor spreading and metastasis, evidencing its function in VEGF induction, HIF-1alpha activation, and MMP-9/MMP-2 expression, pushing up the neoangiogenic and the epithelial–mesenchymal transition process in glioblastoma, osteosarcoma prostate, colon, breast, lung, and pancreatic tumors. Moreover, our studies contributed to evidence its role in interacting with WNT/APC/β-catenin axis, highlighting new pathways in sporadic colon cancer onset. The application of volatilome analysis in high expressing LOX-1 tumor-bearing mice correlates with the tumor evolution, suggesting a closed link between LOX-1 upregulation and metabolic changes in individual volatile compounds and thus providing a viable method for a simple, non-invasive alternative monitoring of tumor progression. These findings underline the role of LOX-1 as regulator of tumor progression, migration, invasion, metastasis formation, and tumor-related neo-angiogenesis, proposing this receptor as a promising therapeutic target and thus enhancing current antineoplastic strategies.
Roles of miRNA dysregulation in the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma
Authors: Chen Dan , Yang Xinhong , Liu Min , Zhang Zhihua , Xing Enhong
Published: January 2021

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant disease of plasma cells with complex pathology, causing significant morbidity due to its end-organ destruction. The outcomes of patients with myeloma have significantly improved in the past couple of decades with the introduction of novel agents, such as proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulators, and monoclonal antibodies. However, MM remains incurable and presents considerable individual heterogeneity. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, endogenous noncoding RNAs of 19–22 nucleotides that regulate gene expression at the posttranscriptional level. Numerous studies have shown that miRNA deregulation is closely related to MM pathology, including tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, prognosis, and drug response, which make the complicated miRNA network an attractive and marvelous area of investigation for novel anti-MM therapeutic approaches. Herein, we mainly summarized the current knowledge on the roles of miRNAs, which are of great significance in regulating pathological factors involved in MM progressions, such as bone marrow microenvironment, methylation, immune regulation, genomic instability, and drug resistance. Meanwhile, their potential as novel prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets was also discussed.
ATP synthase hexamer assemblies shape cristae of Toxoplasma mitochondria
Authors: Mühleip Alexander , Kock Flygaard Rasmus , Ovciarikova Jana , Lacombe Alice , Fernandes Paula , Sheiner Lilach , Amunts Alexey
Published: January 2021

Mitochondrial ATP synthase plays a key role in inducing membrane curvature to establish cristae. In Apicomplexa causing diseases such as malaria and toxoplasmosis, an unusual cristae morphology has been observed, but its structural basis is unknown. Here, we report that the apicomplexan ATP synthase assembles into cyclic hexamers, essential to shape their distinct cristae. Cryo-EM was used to determine the structure of the hexamer, which is held together by interactions between parasite-specific subunits in the lumenal region. Overall, we identified 17 apicomplexan-specific subunits, and a minimal and nuclear-encoded subunit-a. The hexamer consists of three dimers with an extensive dimer interface that includes bound cardiolipins and the inhibitor IF1. Cryo-ET and subtomogram averaging revealed that hexamers arrange into ~20-megadalton pentagonal pyramids in the curved apical membrane regions. Knockout of the linker protein ATPTG11 resulted in the loss of pentagonal pyramids with concomitant aberrantly shaped cristae. Together, this demonstrates that the unique macromolecular arrangement is critical for the maintenance of cristae morphology in Apicomplexa.
Boosting thermo-photocatalytic CO2 conversion activity by using photosynthesis-inspired electron-proton-transfer mediators
Authors: Li Yingxuan , Hui Danping , Sun Yuqing , Wang Ying , Wu Zhijian , Wang Chuanyi , Zhao Jincai
Published: January 2021

Natural photosynthesis proceeded by sequential water splitting and CO2 reduction reactions is an efficient strategy for CO2 conversion. Here, mimicking photosynthesis to boost CO2-to-CO conversion is achieved by using plasmonic Bi as an electron-proton-transfer mediator. Electroreduction of H2O with a Bi electrode simultaneously produces O2 and hydrogen-stored Bi (Bi-Hx). The obtained Bi-Hx is subsequently used to generate electron-proton pairs under light irradiation to reduce CO2 to CO; meanwhile, Bi-Hx recovers to Bi, completing the catalytic cycle. This two-step strategy avoids O2 separation and enables a CO production efficiency of 283.8 μmol g−1 h−1 without sacrificial reagents and cocatalysts, which is 9 times that on pristine Bi in H2 gas. Theoretical/experimental studies confirm that such excellent activity is attributed to the formed Bi-Hx intermediate that improves charge separation and reduces reaction barriers in CO2 reduction.
Tentative identification of key factors determining the hemostatic efficiency of diatom frustule
Authors: Wang Lulu , Pan Kehou , Zhang Lin , Zhou Chengxu , Li Yun , Zhu Baohua , Han Jichang
Published: January 2021

Pennate diatom can be developed as an excellent hemostasis agent. The BET value, diatom size, and pore diameter are the key factors affecting the hemostasis efficiency of diatom frustules.
Non-genetic cell-surface modification with a self-assembling molecular glue
Authors: Hakariya Hayase , Takashima Ippei , Takemoto Misao , Noda Naotaka , Sato Shin-ichi , Uesugi Motonari
Published: January 2021

A versatile non-genetic cell-surface modification method, in which a self-assembling small molecule is combined with Halo-tag proteins, permitted the sell functionalization.
Electron–phonon interaction in In-induced structures on Si(111) from first-principles
Authors: Sklyadneva Irina Yu. , Heid Rolf , M. Echenique Pedro , Chulkov Eugene V.
Published: January 2021

Electron–phonon interaction in the Si(111)-supported rectangular phases of In is investigated within the density-functional theory and linear-response.
Ultrafast channel I and channel II charge generation processes at a nonfullerene donor–acceptor PTB7:PDI interface is crucial for its excellent photovoltaic performance
Authors: Li Kai , Xu Dong-Hui , Wang Xin , Liu Xiang-Yang
Published: January 2021

Ultrafast channel I and channel II charge generation processes at a nonfullerene donor–acceptor PTB7:PDI interface is crucial for its excellent photovoltaic performance.
Effects of single and double active sites of Cu oxide clusters over the MFI zeolite for direct conversion of methane to methanol: DFT calculations
Authors: Nunthakitgoson Watinee , Thivasasith Anawat , Maihom Thana , Wattanakit Chularat
Published: January 2021

In this work, we investigate the effect of various species of Cu oxide clusters including single and double active sites incorporated in the MFI zeolite framework for the direct conversion of methane to methanol.
Single metal atom anchored on a CN monolayer as an excellent electrocatalyst for the nitrogen reduction reaction
Authors: Chu Zhaoqin , Kang Xuxin , Duan Xiangmei
Published: January 2021

The behavior of single-atom catalysts on a CN monolayer in nitrogen reduction reactions (NRRs) has been studied, the figure shows the free energy change of potential determining step of NRR on various single metal atoms supported on CN monolayer.
Dynamic halide perovskite heterojunction generates direct current
Authors: Ma Chunqing , Kim Bosung , Kim Sang-Woo , Park Nam-Gyu
Published: January 2021

Here, we demonstrate a dynamic perovskite device capable of converting mechanical energy into direct current (DC) electrical energy, combining two concepts: carrier generation from the triboelectric effect and carrier separation through band energy level difference.
Fermentation ofPleurotus ostreatusandGanoderma lucidummushrooms and their extracts by the gut microbiota of healthy and osteopenic women: potential prebiotic effect and impact of mushroom fermentation products on human osteoblasts
Authors: Kerezoudi Evangelia N. , Mitsou Evdokia K. , Gioti Katerina , Terzi Eirini , Avgousti Ifigeneia , Panagiotou Alexandra , Koutrotsios Georgios , Zervakis Georgios I. , Mountzouris Konstantinos C. , Tenta Roxane , Kyriacou Adamantini
Published: January 2021

Beta-glucan rich mushrooms may exert beneficialin vitroeffects on bone physiology by alterations in the gut microbiota and/or SCFAs.
Effect of different phosphatidylcholines on high fat diet-induced insulin resistance in mice
Authors: Gao Xiang , Du Lei , Randell Edward , Zhang Huijun , Li Kelei , Li Duo
Published: January 2021

In this study, we systematically investigated the effect of different phosphatidylcholines on high fat diet-induced insulin resistance in mice.
Caffeic acid protects against Aβ toxicity and prolongs lifespan inCaenorhabditis elegansmodels
Authors: Li Hui , Yu Xiaoxuan , Li Chenxi , Ma Lei , Zhao Zhenyu , Guan Shuwen , Wang Liping
Published: January 2021

Caffeic acid may alleviate Aβ-induced toxicity and increase lifespan by increasing signaling pathway-associated oxidative stress and regulating metabolism inC. elegans.
The interaction between tea polyphenols and host intestinal microorganisms: an effective way to prevent psychiatric disorders
Authors: Sun Qiaoyu , Cheng Lu , Zhang Xin , Wu Zufang , Weng Peifang
Published: January 2021

Tea polyphenols (TP) are the most bioactive components in tea extracts.
Role of glucose in the repair of cell membrane damage during squeeze distortion of erythrocytes in microfluidic capillaries
Authors: Chen Yuanyuan , Pan Yunfan , Feng Yuzhen , Li Donghai , Man Jia , Feng Lin , Zhang Deyuan , Chen Huawei , Chen Haosheng
Published: January 2021

Glucose helps erythrocytes maintain their biconcave morphology and deformability as they pass through small capillaries with a repetitive high squeeze effect.
Using copper sulfide nanoparticles as cross-linkers of tumor microenvironment responsive polymer micelles for cancer synergistic photo-chemotherapy
Authors: Wu Zhengzhong , Zhang Panfeng , Wang Peiwen , Wang Zizhen , Luo Xianglin
Published: January 2021

Using copper sulfide nanoparticles as cross-linkers of tumor microenvironment responsive polymer micelles for cancer synergistic photo-chemotherapy presents promising therapeutic effects in cancer treatment.
Nonlinear detour phase holography
Authors: Wang Bingxia , Hong Xuanmiao , Wang Kai , Chen Xin , Liu Shan , Krolikowski Wieslaw , Lu Peixiang , Sheng Yan
Published: January 2021

A nonlinear detour phase hologram composed of highly simplified domain modules provides an effective way to perform high-quality nonlinear holographic imaging.
Information processing based on DNA toehold-mediated strand displacement (TMSD) reaction
Authors: Luo Tao , Fan Sisi , Liu Yan , Song Jie
Published: January 2021

We reviewed the recent research on information processing with the DNA toehold-mediated strand displacement reaction, including the basic principles and applications in logic circuit, analog circuit, combinational circuit, and information relay.
Design guide of amphiphilic crystalline random copolymers for sub-10 nm microphase separation
Authors: Ikami Takaya , Kimura Yoshihiko , Takenaka Mikihito , Ouchi Makoto , Terashima Takaya
Published: January 2021

Sub-10 nm lamellar structures are efficiently constructed by the pendant microphase separation of amphiphilic crystalline random copolymers with broad molecular weight distribution that are obtained from free radical copolymerization.
Elucidating the intercalation of methylated 1,10-phenanthroline with DNA: the important weight of the CH/H interactions and the selectivity of CH/π and CH/n interactions
Authors: Sánchez-González Ángel , Gil Adrià
Published: January 2021

Intercalation of ligands forming CH/π and CH/n interactions with DNA is ruled by key acceptor atoms of DNA. It suggests some key and lock mechanism where the interacting fragments fit like puzzle pieces to achieve the stabilization of the system.
A molecular journey to check the conformational dynamics of tau tubulin kinase 2 mutations associated with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ahamad Shahzaib , Kanipakam Hema , Kumar Vijay , Gupta Dinesh
Published: January 2021

MD simulations of TTBK2 mutants to study its impact on stability of the protein.
High aspect ZnO nanorod growth over electrodeposited tubes for photocatalytic degradation of EtBr dye
Authors: Biswal Hrudaya Jyoti , Yadav Anshul , Vundavilli Pandu R. , Gupta Ankur
Published: January 2021

In this work, vertically grown rod type ZnO nanostructures have been synthesized on metallic nickel tube films fabricated through the cost-effective process of electroforming..
Tuning of structural and optical properties with enhanced catalytic activity in chemically synthesized Co-doped MoS2 nanosheets
Authors: Rahman Rosy , Samanta Dipanjan , Pathak Amita , Nath Tapan Kumar
Published: January 2021

The optimal cobalt (6% Co) doped MoS2 catalyst has shown the highest catalytic activity due to the presence of abundant defects in the active edge sites, having dominant metallic 1T phase with Co ion activated defective basal planes.
Chitosan-covered liposomes as a promising drug transporter: nanoscale investigations
Authors: Mohammed Lemaalem , Nourddine Hadrioui , Saad El Fassi , Abdelali Derouiche , Hamid Ridouane
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we studied the graft chitosan conformation and its influence on the liposome membrane structure and dynamics as a function of the grafting molar-fraction.
Synthesis and properties of EPDM-based oil-absorptive gels with different types of EPDM and styrene derivatives
Authors: Zhang Minghua , Fan Minmin , Peng Shuhua , He Jianping , Deng Mingyu , Gong Peixin , Wang Ke , Zhang Xi
Published: January 2021

The effects of EPDM types and styrene derivatives on the properties of EPDM-based oil-absorptive gels were studied.
Perfluoroalkylated alternating copolymer possessing solubility in fluorous liquids and imaging capabilities under high energy radiation
Authors: Oh Hyun-Taek , Jung Seok-Heon , Kim Kang-Hyun , Moon Yina , Jeong Do Hyeon , Ku Yejin , Lee Sangsul , Park Byeong-Gyu , Lee Jiyoul , Koh Chawon , Nishi Tsunehiro , Kim Hyun-Woo , Lee Jin-Kyun
Published: January 2021

A highly fluorinated alternating copolymer, P(RFMi-St), possessing patterning capabilities under high energy radiation was achieved with semi-perfluorodecyl maleimide and styrene.
LiCl-promoted-dehydration of fructose-based carbohydrates into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural in isopropanol
Authors: Ma Hao , Li Zhenzhen , Chen Lili , Teng Junjiang
Published: January 2021

Fructose-based carbohydrates can be dehydrated into HMF in the LiCl-promoted and i-PrOH mediated system efficiently.
Effects of potassium additives on the combustion characteristics of graphite as a heating source of heat-not-burn tobacco
Authors: Luo Chenghao , Li Dan , Huang Long , Wang Zean , Zhang Jian , Liu Hao , Liu Zhaohui
Published: January 2021

The ignition temperature of a graphite-heated heat-not-burn tobacco product can be significantly decreased by 120 °C with 0.88 wt% of K2CO3 additive.
Experimentally designed chromatographic method for the simultaneous analysis of dimenhydrinate, cinnarizine and their toxic impurities
Authors: Edrees Fadwa H. , Saad Ahmed S. , Alsaadi Mohammed T. , Amin Noha H. , Abdelwahab Nada S.
Published: January 2021

Experimentally designed HPLC method for simultaneous analysis of dimenhydrinate, cinnarizine and their toxic impurities.
Dimpled SiO2@γ-Fe2O3 nanocomposites – fabrication and use for arsenic adsorption in aqueous medium
Authors: Deeprasert Saruta , Wang Lilin , Simeonidis Konstantinos , Kim Thanh Nguyen Thi , Duguet Etienne , Mourdikoudis Stefanos
Published: January 2021

The process of grafting maghemite NFs onto silica dimples.
Mesenchymal stem cells anchored with thymidine phosphorylase for doxifluridine-mediated cancer therapy
Authors: Tarar Ammar , Alyami Esmael M. , Peng Ching-An
Published: January 2021

Mesenchymal stem cells harnessed as vehicles to deliver thymidine phosphorylase to eradicate cancer cells after dosing prodrug doxifluridine.
Reversible PtII–CH3 deuteration without methane loss: metal–ligand cooperation vs. ligand-assisted PtII-protonation
Authors: Pal Shrinwantu , Nozaki Kyoko , Vedernikov Andrei N. , Love Jennifer A.
Published: January 2021

Di(2-pyridyl)ketone dimethylplatinum(ii), (dpk)PtII(CH3)2, reacts with CD3OD at 25 °C to undergo complete deuteration of Pt–CH3 fragments in ∼5 h without loss of methane to form (dpk)PtII(CD3)2 in virtually quantitative yield.
LCST polymers with UCST behavior
Authors: Najafi Marzieh , Habibi Mehdi , Fokkink Remco , Hennink Wim E. , Vermonden Tina
Published: January 2021

In this study, temperature dependent behavior of dense dispersions of core crosslinked flower-like micelles is investigated.
Evolution of shear zones in granular packings under pressure
Authors: Madani Mahnoush , Maleki Maniya , Török János , Shaebani M. Reza
Published: January 2021

Stress transmission in realistic granular media often occurs under external load and in the presence of boundary slip. We demonstrate how the shear strain is localized in a split-bottom Couette cell with smooth walls subject to a confining pressure.
Improved interfacial chemistry and enhanced high voltage-resistance capability of an in situ polymerized electrolyte for LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2–Li batteries
Authors: Ma Yue , Sun Qifang , Wang Zhenyu , Wang Su , Zhou Ying , Song Dawei , Zhang Hongzhou , Shi Xixi , Li Chunliang , Zhang Lianqi , Zhu Lingyun
Published: January 2021

Poly(maleic anhydride–hexafluorobutyl methacrylate–methyl methacrylate) electrolyte is prepared to improve the interfacial chemistry of lithium metal batteries with a Ni-rich cathode.
Strategically integrating quantum dots into organic and perovskite solar cells
Authors: Chen Ming , Wang Jiuxing , Yin Feifei , Du Zhonglin , Belfiore Laurence A. , Tang Jianguo
Published: January 2021

Recent advances in strategically integrating diverse QDs into organic and perovskite solar cells are reviewed associating the involved device configuration, integration location, and physical mechanism.
Strategies of modifying spiro-OMeTAD materials for perovskite solar cells: a review
Authors: Ren Guanhua , Han Wenbin , Deng Yanyu , Wu Wei , Li Zhuowei , Guo Jiaxin , Bao Hongchang , Liu Chunyu , Guo Wenbin
Published: January 2021

The effects of different doping strategies and corresponding doping mechanisms on the performance and stability of PSCs were reviewed.
Highly efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution based on conjugated molecular micro/nano-crystalline sheets
Authors: Wan Yuejuan , Deng Jian , Gu Cheng , Ma Yuguang
Published: January 2021

A novel organic conjugated molecule was synthesised and fabricated into sheet-shaped crystals. The micro/nano-sheets show an excellent hydrogen evolution rate (8143 μmol g−1 h−1) from water splitting, outperforming most organic photocatalysts.
Layer-by-layer assembly of Au and CdS nanoparticles on the surface of bacterial cells for photo-assisted bioanodes in microbial fuel cells
Authors: Li Pingping , Jiang Yujing , Song Rong-Bin , Zhang Jian-Rong , Zhu Jun-Jie
Published: January 2021

Layer-by-layer assembly of Au and CdS nanoparticles on the surface of Escherichia coli was achieved for use in anodes of high-performance photo-assisted MFCs.
Highly efficient green-emitting phosphor Sr4Al14O25:Ce,Tb with low thermal quenching and wide color gamut upon UV-light excitation for backlighting display applications
Authors: Li Haoran , Liang Yujun , Liu Shiqi , Zhang Weilun , Bi Yanying , Gong Yuming , Chen Yongjun , Lei Wen
Published: January 2021

This work shows a useful method to design new green phosphors with ultra-narrow emission bands effectivelyviamanaging the energy-transfer efficiency from Ce3+to Tb3+ions in perfectly matched inorganic compounds.
Comparison of two side-chain design strategies for indacenodithienothiophene–naphthalene diimide polymer photovoltaic acceptors prepared by direct (hetero)arylation polycondensation
Authors: Zhu Bili , Guo Lingzhi , Deng Ping , Liu Shengjian
Published: January 2021

Two new indacenodithienothiophene–naphthalene diimide polymer acceptors PIN-1 and PIN-2 are rationally designed by two side-chain design strategies (SE-2 and SE-3) and are synthesized by the direct (hetero)arylation polycondensation (DHAP) method.
Site-dependent photoinduced charge carrier dynamics in nitrogen/fluorine doped TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Nam Yeonsig , Li Hao , Lee Jin Yong
Published: January 2021

Electron and hole trapping/recombination dynamics in N-doped and F-doped TiO2 nanoparticles.
Aggregation-induced phosphorescence emission (AIPE) behaviors in PtII(C^N)(N-donor ligand)Cl-type complexes through restrained D2d deformation of the coordinating skeleton and their optoelectronic properties
Authors: Yang Hua , Li Huiying , Yue Ling , Chen Xi , Song Dongdong , Yang Xiaolong , Sun Yuanhui , Zhou Guijiang , Wu Zhaoxin
Published: January 2021

A series of four-coordinated PtII(C^N)(N-donor ligand)Cl-type complexes have been synthesized to show aggregation-induced phosphorescence emission (AIPE) behaviors and impressive OLED device efficiencies.
Insight into molecular profile changes after skeletal muscle contusion using microarray and bioinformatics analyses
Authors: Li Na , Bai Ru-feng , Li Chun , Dang Li-hong , Du Qiu-xiang , Jin Qian-qian , Cao Jie , Wang Ying-yuan , Sun Jun-hong
Published: January 2021

Muscle trauma frequently occurs in daily life. However, the molecular mechanisms of muscle healing, which partly depend on the extent of the damage, are not well understood. The present study aimed to investigate gene expression profiles following mild and severe muscle contusion, and to provide more information about the molecular mechanisms underlying the repair process. A total of 33 rats were divided randomly into control (n=3), mild contusion (n=15), and severe contusion (n=15) groups; the contusion groups were further divided into five subgroups (1, 3, 24, 48, and 168 h post-injury; n=3 per subgroup). A total of 2844 and 2298 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using microarray analyses in the mild and severe contusions, respectively. From the analysis of the 1620 coexpressed genes in mildly and severely contused muscle, we discovered that the gene profiles in functional modules and temporal clusters were similar between the mild and severe contusion groups; moreover, the genes showed time-dependent patterns of expression, which allowed us to identify useful markers of wound age. The functional analyses of genes in the functional modules and temporal clusters were performed, and the hub genes in each module–cluster pair were identified. Interestingly, we found that genes down-regulated at 24-48 h were largely associated with metabolic processes, especially of the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), which has been rarely reported. These results improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying muscle repair, and provide a basis for further studies of wound age estimation.
When Hearing Does Not Mean Understanding: On the Neural Processing of Syntactically Complex Sentences by Listeners With Hearing Loss
Authors: Vogelzang Margreet , Thiel Christiane M. , Rosemann Stephanie , Rieger Jochem W. , Ruigendijk Esther
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Adults with mild-to-moderate age-related hearing loss typically exhibit issues with speech understanding, but their processing of syntactically complex sentences is not well understood. We test the hypothesis that listeners with hearing loss' difficulties with comprehension and processing of syntactically complex sentences are due to the processing of degraded input interfering with the successful processing of complex sentences.

Method

We performed a neuroimaging study with a sentence comprehension task, varying sentence complexity (through subject–object order and verb–arguments order) and cognitive demands (presence or absence of a secondary task) within subjects. Groups of older subjects with hearing loss (n= 20) and age-matched normal-hearing controls (n= 20) were tested.

Results

The comprehension data show effects of syntactic complexity and hearing ability, with normal-hearing controls outperforming listeners with hearing loss, seemingly more so on syntactically complex sentences. The secondary task did not influence off-line comprehension. The imaging data show effects of group, sentence complexity, and task, with listeners with hearing loss showing decreased activation in typical speech processing areas, such as the inferior frontal gyrus and superior temporal gyrus. No interactions between group, sentence complexity, and task were found in the neuroimaging data.

Conclusions

The results suggest that listeners with hearing loss process speech differently from their normal-hearing peers, possibly due to the increased demands of processing degraded auditory input. Increased cognitive demands by means of a secondary visual shape processing task influence neural sentence processing, but no evidence was found that it does so in a different way for listeners with hearing loss and normal-hearing listeners.
Physical insights from the spectrum of the radio halo in MACS J0717.5+3745
Authors: Rajpurohit K. , Brunetti G. , Bonafede A. , van Weeren R. J. , Botteon A. , Vazza F. , Hoeft M. , Riseley C. J. , Bonnassieux E. , Brienza M. , Forman W. R. , Röttgering H. J. A. , Rajpurohit A. S. , Locatelli N. , Shimwell T. W. , Cassano R. , Di Gennaro G. , Brüggen M. , Wittor D. , Drabent A. , Ignesti A.
Published: January 2021

We present new LOw-Frequency ARray observations of the massive merging galaxy cluster MACS J0717.5+3745, located at a redshift of 0.5458. The cluster hosts the most powerful radio halo known to date. These new observations, in combination with published uGMRT (300−850 MHz) and VLA (1−6.5 GHz) data, reveal that the halo is more extended than previously thought, with a largest linear size of ∼2.2 Mpc, making it one of the largest known halos. The halo shows a steep spectrum (α144 MHz1.5 GHz ∼ −1.4) and a steepening (α1.5 GHz5.5 GHz ∼ −1.9) above 1.5 GHz. We find a strong scattering in spectral index maps on scales of 50−100 kpc. We suggest that such a strong scattering may be a consequence of the regime where inverse Compton dominates the energy losses of electrons. The spectral index becomes steeper and shows an increased curvature in the outermost regions of the halo. We combined the radio data with Chandra observations to investigate the connection between the thermal and nonthermal components of the intracluster medium (ICM). Despite a significant substructure in the halo emission, the radio brightness correlates strongly with the X-ray brightness at all observed frequencies. The radio-versus-X-ray brightness correlation slope steepens at a higher radio frequency (from b144 MHz = 0.67 ± 0.05 to b3.0 GHz = 0.98 ± 0.09) and the spectral index shows a significant anticorrelation with the X-ray brightness. Both pieces of evidence further support a spectral steepening in the external regions. The compelling evidence for a steep spectral index, the existence of a spectral break above 1.5 GHz, and the dependence of radio and X-ray surface brightness correlation on frequency are interpreted in the context of turbulent reacceleration models. Under this scenario, our results allowed us to constrain that the turbulent kinetic pressure of the ICM is up to 10%.
A relation between the radial velocity dispersion of young clusters and their age
Authors: Ramírez-Tannus M. C. , Backs F. , de Koter A. , Sana H. , Beuther H. , Bik A. , Brandner W. , Kaper L. , Linz H. , Henning Th. , Poorta J.
Published: January 2021

The majority of massive stars (> 8M⊙) in OB associations are found in close binary systems. Nonetheless, the formation mechanism of these close massive binaries is not understood yet. Using literature data, we measured the radial-velocity dispersion (σ1D) as a proxy for the close binary fraction in ten OB associations in the Galaxy and the Large Magellanic Cloud, spanning an age range from 1 to 6 Myr. We find a positive trend of this dispersion with the cluster’s age, which is consistent with binary hardening. Assuming a universal binary fraction offbin= 0.7, we converted theσ1Dbehavior to an evolution of the minimum orbital periodPcutofffrom ∼9.5 years at 1 Myr to ∼1.4 days for the oldest clusters in our sample at ∼6 Myr. Our results suggest that binaries are formed at larger separations, and they harden in around 1 to 2 Myr to produce the period distribution observed in few million year-old OB binaries. Such an inward migration may either be driven by an interaction with a remnant accretion disk or with other young stellar objects present in the system. Our findings constitute the first empirical evidence in favor of migration as a scenario for the formation of massive close binaries.
Development of a New Aluminium Alloy for Drill Pipes
Authors: Ivanov Dmitry , Gradoboev Alexander , Ryabov Dmitry , Vakhromov Roman
Published: January 2021

The new aluminium alloy for drill pipes is one of the 6xxx-series alloys. The alloy has high strength properties at room and elevated temperatures, as well as high corrosion resistance and workability. Semi-finished extruded products from the new alloy have the following properties: UTS = 420 MPa, YTS = 380 MPa, elongation = 10% and YTS150 = 345 MPa, corrosion rate in solution (pH 11) = 0.09 g/m2 h. Based on the obtained properties, the new alloy can be used as a replacement for D16 alloy.
Analysis of the reasons for the accelerated failure of oil pipelines in the regions of the Far North and Siberia
Authors: Shaposhnikov Nikita , Ermakov Boris , Zhukov Nikita , Fedorov Aleksandr
Published: January 2021

From about the time trends of development of oil gas complex of the country requires reassess the reliability and durability of pipelines for various purposes. The reason for this trend is the gradual displacement of the producing provinces towards regions with extremely low climatic temperatures, difficult natural conditions, and highly aggressive components of the oil production. Analysis of the reasons for the accelerated destruction of pipes in the northern regions of the country made it possible to identify two main causes of failure. This is the development of corrosion- mechanical defects and insufficient cold resistance and crack resistance of materials at low climatic temperatures. The paper analyzes the role of non-metallic inclusions in increased defectiveness of steel X70 pipes, an analysis of the influence of the microstructure and non-metallic inclusions of operation the pipes in cold climate.
Physical Treatment of Oil Palm Shell for Briquette Production as Bioenergy at Remote Area
Authors: Rohsari Indah Utami Amaliyah , Suwandi Suwandi , Alun Mustafa Yoga , Mel Maizirwan
Published: January 2021

The daily needs of energy in remote areas, Indonesia, is dominated by biomass waste. The abundant types of biomass waste for heat transfer is empty fruits shell (EFS) of oil palm as briquette. This research discussed a brief analysis of oil palm shell by using physical treatment at different crushing pressure. It was also to examine the adequate size of particle for improving the heating value of briquette. The crushing pressure had a height dimension of 20 cm, as well as the briquette mold with a diameter of 2 cm and a height of 1 cm. The oil palm shell which was applied physical treatment at different crushing pressure of 400 J, 550 J, and 700 J, that resulted in particle size is smaller than 800 µm, 800 µm to 1 700 µm, 1 700 µm to 2 000 µm, and bigger than 2 000 µm. The adequate size of particle for briquette was found to be < 800 µm, which reached the heating value of 20 042.32 J g–1 and ash residue of 20 %. This study showed the advantages of oil palm shell briquette by using physical treatment is suitable and sustainable alternative to daily life use in Indonesia.
Entrepreneurship Orientation, Eco-innovation, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Learning Adoption Capability: A case Study of Food SME’s in Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Didiek Wiet Aryanto Vincent , Kondo Kunio , Wismantoro Yohan , Nurtantyo Andono Pulung
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to investigate the entrepreneurship orientation among the Central Java’s food small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and its impact on their marketing performance, the business method through eco-innovation. This study also employed eco-innovation and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) learning adoption capability. The respondents of this study were withdrawn purposely from food industries located in Central Java. The location of the study was in Surakarta, Salatiga, Semarang and Kudus. The time frame of the study was from January 2019 to July 2019. The software of SEM version 23 (Structural Equation Modelling) was utilized to test the hypotheses. The findings revealed that all the hypotheses (entrepreneurship orientation, ecoinnovation and ICT learning adoption capability) have significant impact on marketing performance.
Investigation on the effect of leading edge tubercles of sweptback wing at low reynolds number
Authors: Gopinathan Veerapathiran Thangaraj , Bruce Ralphin Rose John , Surya Mohanram
Published: January 2021

Aerodynamic efficiency of an airplane wing can be improved either by increasing its lift generation tendency or by reducing the drag. Recently, Bio-inspired designs have been received greater attention for the geometric modifications of airplane wings. One of the bio-inspired designs contains sinusoidal Humpback Whale (HW) tubercles, i.e., protuberances exist at the wing leading edge (LE). The tubercles have excellent flow control characteristics at low Reynolds numbers. The present work describes about the effect of tubercles on swept back wing performance at various Angle of Attack (AoA). NACA 0015 and NACA 4415 airfoils are used for swept back wing design with sweep angle about 30°. The modified wings (HUMP 0015 A, HUMP 0015 B, HUMP 4415 A, HUMP 4415 B) are designed with two amplitude to wavelength ratios (η) of 0.1 & 0.24 for the performance analysis. It is a novel effort to analyze the tubercle vortices along the span that induce additional flow energy especially, behind the tubercles peak and trough region. Subsequently, Co-efficient of Lift (CL), Co-efficient of Drag (CD) and boundary layer pressure gradients also predicted for modified and baseline (smooth LE) models in the pre & post-stall regimes. It was observed that the tubercles increase the performance of swept back wings by the enhanced CL/CD ratio in the pre-stall AoA region. Interestingly, the flow separation region behind the centerline of tubercles and formation of Laminar Separation Bubbles (LSB) were asymmetric because of the sweep.
The first light of the Solar Activity MOF Monitor Telescope (SAMM)
Authors: Speziali Roberto , Di Paola Andrea , Centrone Mauro , Oliviero Maurizio , Bonaccini Calia Domenico , Dal Sasso Luciano , Faccini Marco , Mauriello Vincenzo , Terranegra Luciano
Published: January 2021

SAMM (Solar Activity MOF Monitor) is a ground based robotic instrument that has been developed to study and constantly monitor the magnetic activity of the Sun, focusing on Active Regions (ARs). These regions are characterized by complex magnetic structures that may result in explosive events usually associated with large amount of particle and matter ejections in the space environment. When interacting with the Earth magnetosphere they can represent a threat for our infrastructures both in space (satellites, navigation systems) and on the ground (power plants and electrical grids). Based on Sodium (Na) and Potassium (K) magneto optical filters (MOFs), SAMM provides a “tomographic” view of the magnetic structures delivering high cadence magnetograms and dopplergrams at different heights of the solar atmosphere thus providing a unique dataset with the aim to push forward the current space weather forecasting capabilities. Being able to forecast these events enough in advance (even few hours) is a fundamental task to put in place mitigation strategies to reduce the potential catastrophic impact on vital infrastructures on earth. In this scenario the SAMM observatory has been realized to be a “node” that can be replicated in a world-wide network with the aim to give a continuous coverage of the Sun situation. This project has been initially funded by the Italian Ministry of Economic Development (MiSE) in 2015 through a soft loan grant and its development and operation is carried on within a scientific collaboration between the INAF – Rome and Naples Astronomical Observatories and the Italian small enterprise (SME) Avalon Instruments. After three years of development, SAMM is in the commissioning phase. In this paper we are presenting a final instrument description along with the first light images.
A basin recognition method by landform classification and geometrical feature discrimination
Authors: Kong Yueping , Zeng Jun , Wang Jiajing , Fang Yong
Published: January 2021

Aiming at the geomorphological and geometrical features of the basin, a recognition approach combined with a landform classification and discriminant analysis is presented. First, a k-means algorithm is applied to the digital elevation model data. The basic types of landforms with elevation, slope, and relief amplitude are clustered, and the landform regions of plains, mountains, and hills have been separated. Focusing on the plain and its neighboring region, a measurement function is defined to analyze the cases of the plain surrounded by mountains and hills. Finally, a discrimination model for basin recognition is presented with parameters of the surrounded state, area of the plain, and difference of its elevation. The approach is applied to the DEM of the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission of China. The experiments show that the results are the same as those of real terrains.
Spreading height and critical conditions for the collapse of turbulent fountains in stratified media
Authors: Sarasua L. G. , Freire D. , Cabeza C. , Martí A. C.
Published: January 2021

Axisymmetric fountains in stratified environments rise until reaching a maximum height, where the vertical momentum vanishes, and then fall and spread radially as an annular plume following a well-known top-hat profile. Here, we generalize the model of Morton et al. [“Turbulent gravitational convection from maintained and instantaneous sources,” Proc. R. Soc. London, Ser. A 234, 1 (1956)] in order to correctly determine the dependence of the maximum height and the spreading height with the parameters involved. We obtain the critical conditions for the collapse of the fountain, i.e., when the jet falls up to the source level, and show that the spreading height must be expressed as a function of at least two parameters. To improve the quantitative agreement with the experiments, we modify the criterion to take the mixing process in the downflow into account. Numerical simulations were implemented to estimate the parameter values that characterize this merging. We show that our generalized model agrees very well with the experimental measurements.
Stability-analysis-based optimization to control flow separation over a diffusing passage
Authors: Wang Yinzhu , Ferrer Esteban , Saavedra Jorge , Paniagua Guillermo , Valero Eusebio
Published: January 2021

We present a stability-analysis-based optimization approach that minimizes the growth rate of the least stable mode associated with the flow structure governing flow separation. We compare this approach with a classic optimization approach that minimizes an integral function related to pressure loss. We analyze both approaches on a two-dimensional model that mimics the diffusing passage present in the aft portion of the suction side of a low-pressure turbine. This zone is prone to boundary layer detachment at low Reynolds numbers, while fully attached flow is present at higher Reynolds numbers. The goal of the optimization is to design a local blowing technique to prevent boundary layer detachment at low Reynolds numbers and thereby reducing the dynamic head pressure loss with a minimum energy input. We simulate the problem using the compressible Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations (with the k–ω turbulence model) and perform a stability analysis on the mean flow. We then use the stability information and associated sensitivity (through adjoints) to provide insights into local blowing and thereby guide the optimization. The two optimization strategies use the blowing location, blowing rate, and blowing angle as the optimization variables. The first strategy minimizes a classic global integral function, including input and output pressure losses. The second approach minimizes the amplification rate of the least stable eigenvalue resulting from a stability analysis. The targeted mode governs the detached recirculation, and stabilizing its amplification rate leads to attached flow and minimum losses. Indeed, both strategies lead to attached flows and similar optimal values for the blowing location and to enhanced performance. It is concluded that the stability-analysis-based optimization provides results comparable to those from a classic optimization approach and can be useful for cases where there is no clear integral functional to guide the optimization procedure (e.g., pressure loss).
Hydrogel: A potential therapeutic material for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Zhang Yiwen , Li Zhixiang , Guan Jingjing , Mao YingJi , Zhou Pinghui
Published: January 2021

Current surgical treatments and material applications are not ideal for the treatment of orthopedic clinical injuries, such as large bone defects, cartilage defects, and vascular tendon adhesions that occur after repair. With the continuous development of tissue engineering technology, hydrogels have become important medical biomaterials. Hydrogels are three-dimensional hydrophilic network structures composed of cross-linked polymer chains. They are a new kind of polymeric material for the treatment of orthopedic diseases. Hydrogels have good biocompatibility, biodegradability, drug-carrying capacity, and controllable drug release ability and are less toxic than nanoparticle carriers. They have been widely used in wound repair, guided tissue regeneration, bacteriostasis, hemostasis, postoperative adhesion prevention, drug delivery, and 3D printing. These characteristics can be used to develop a variety of treatments for different diseases. This paper focuses on the innovative progress of hydrogels in promoting and improving bone, cartilage, tendon, and soft tissue regeneration in orthopedic clinical applications. Current and prospective applications of hydrogels in the field of orthopedics are discussed herein.
Flow boiling pressure drop characteristics in a multi-microchannel heat sink
Authors: Thiangtham Phubate , Mondal Pranab Kumar , Wongwises Somchai
Published: January 2021

We make an effort in this study to experimentally investigate the flow boiling pressure drop characteristics in a multi-microchannel heat sink. For the multi-microchannel heat sink, 27 parallel microfluidic channels are considered. Microchannels are fabricated on the copper block and have a hydraulic diameter of 421 µm and length of 40 mm. We perform experiments considering the refrigerant, considered the working fluid in this study. A high mass flux (G ∼ 400 kg/m2 s–1200 kg/m2 s) for a range of wall heat flux (q′′ ∼ 10 kW/m2–170 kW/m2) and varying degrees of saturation temperature (Tsat ∼ 13 °C, 18 °C, and 23 °C) are considered for the experiments. We demonstrate the correlative effect of the total pressure drop on the two-phase flow pattern in the channel. By depicting the interplay between the total pressure drop (∆p) and the frictional pressure gradient, we show that the frictional pressure gradient increases with the increasing mass flux while it decreases with the increasing degree of saturation temperature. We show the significant impact of the heat flux and saturation temperature on the frictional pressure gradient. In addition, we develop a new correlation for the pressure drop characteristics taking the interference effect of the frictional pressure drop in the multi-microchannel heat sink. The inferences of this experimental study will have far-ranging consequences for the design of heat exchangers, leading to the optimization of microscale thermal management equipment.
Constrained codes in single-reader/two-track reading bit-patterned magnetic recording
Authors: Sokjabok S. , Mattayakan M. , Buajong C. , Koonkarnkhai S. , Kovintavewat P. , Warisarn C.
Published: January 2021

A reduction in track width of ultra-high density magnetic recording such as bit-patterned media recording (BPMR) results in an increase in areal density. However, the unfortunate appearance of extreme inter-symbol interference (ISI) and inter-track interference (ITI) can severely deteriorate the system performance. To deal with these problems, we propose to use a single-reader/two-track reading (SRTR) technique, where a single reader was employed to read two parallel-track at once and the bit islands were arranged in a staggered manner. Then, a received readback signal was sampled at an over-sampling rate, where an obtained data sequence can be operated using only a one-dimensional equalization and detection scheme. Moreover, we also present the simple constrained coding schemes consisting of the rate-3/5 and -4/6 constrained codes, where both are properly designed for an SRTR BPMR system by avoiding all data patterns that are more susceptible to ISI and ITI effects. Simulation results show that the severe ISI and ITI effects can be mitigated through the use of our proposed coding schemes. Consequently, the proposed systems are superior to the conventional system (without our constrained codes) at a same user density of 3.0 Tb/in2.