bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Actions of CSF2 and DKK1 on bovine embryo development and pregnancy outcomes are affected by composition of embryo culture medium
Authors: Amaral Thiago F. , de Grazia Joao Gabriel Viana , Martinhao Luany Alves Galvao , De Col Felipe , Siqueira Luiz Gustavo B. , Viana Joao Henrique M. , Hansen Peter J.
Published: May 2022

Procedures for in vitro embryo production in cattle have not been optimized. In the current experiment, we utilized a 3 × 3 factorial design to test whether the proportion of embryos becoming blastocysts in culture and the pregnancy rate after embryo transfer are affected by type of serum in the medium [no serum; 3% (v/v) KnockOut Serum Replacement (SR); 3% (v/v) fetal bovine serum (FBS)] and addition of specific embryokines [vehicle; 10 ng/mL colony stimulating factor 2 (CSF2); 100 ng/mL dickkopf related protein 1 (DKK1)] at day 5 of culture. Embryos were produced using abattoir-derived ovaries and Y-sorted semen from two Angus sires. The percent of putative zygotes and cleaved embryos becoming blastocysts was improved by SR and FBS. Pregnancy rate at day 30 was determined for 1426 Nelore recipients and calving rate for 266 recipients. In the absence of CSF2 or DKK1, pregnancy rates were lower for embryos cultured with SR or FBS. CSF2 and DKK1 reduced pregnancy rate for embryos cultured without serum but had no detrimental effect in the SR or FBS groups. Indeed, CSF2 blocked the negative effect of FBS on pregnancy rate. Data on birth weights were available for 67 bull calves. There were no effects of treatment. The sire used to produce embryos had significant and large effects on development to the blastocyst stage, pregnancy rate at day 30, calving rate and pregnancy loss between day 30 and calving. Results indicate that (1) SR and FBS can improve embryonic development in vitro while also compromising competence of embryos to survive after transfer, (2) actions of CSF2 and DKK1 depend upon other characteristics of the embryo production system, and (3) sire can have a large effect on embryonic development before and after transfer.
Filtering electrons by mode coupling in finite semiconductor superlattices
Authors: Luo Xiaoguang , Shi Jian , Zhang Yaoming , Niu Ziang , Miao Dongpeng , Mi Huiru , Huang Wei
Published: May 2022

Electron transmission through semiconductor superlattices is studied with transfer matrix method and resonance theory. The formation of electron band-pass transmission is ascribed to the coupling of different modes in those semiconductor superlattices with the symmetric unit cell. Upon Fabry-Pérot resonance condition, Bloch modes and two other resonant modes are identified to be related to the nature of the superlattice and its unit cell, respectively. The bands related to the unit cell and the superlattice overlap spontaneously in the tunneling region due to the shared wells, and the coupling of perfect resonances results in the band-pass tunneling. Our findings provide a promising way to study electronic systems with more complicated superlattices or even optical systems with photonic crystals.
Individualism versus collective movement during travel
Authors: Doherty Clare T. M. , Laidre Mark E.
Published: May 2022

Collective movement may emerge if coordinating one’s movement with others produces a greater benefit to oneself than can be achieved alone. Experimentally, the capacity to manoeuvre simulated groups in the wild could enable powerful tests of the impact of collective movement on individual decisions. Yet such experiments are currently lacking due to the inherent difficulty of controlling whole collectives. Here we used a novel technique of experimentally simulating the movement of collectives of social hermit crabs (Coenobita compressus) in the wild. Using large architectural arrays of shells dragged across the beach, we generated synchronous collective movement and systematically varied the simulated collective’s travel direction as well as the context (i.e., danger level). With drone video from above, we then tested whether focal individuals were biased in their movement by the collective. We found that, despite considerable engagement with the collective, individuals’ direction was not significantly biased. Instead, individuals expressed substantial variability across all stimulus directions and contexts. Notably, individuals typically achieved shorter displacements in the presence of the collective versus in the presence of the control stimulus, suggesting an impact of traffic. The absence of a directional bias in individual movement due to the collective suggests that social hermit crabs are individualists, which move with a high level of opportunistic independence, likely thanks to the personal architecture and armour they carry in the form of a protective shell. Future studies can manipulate this level of armour to test its role in autonomy of movement, including the consequences of shell architecture for social decisions. Our novel experimental approach can be used to ask many further questions about how and why collective and individual movement interact.
Convolutional neural network for automatic maxillary sinus segmentation on cone-beam computed tomographic images
Authors: Morgan Nermin , Van Gerven Adriaan , Smolders Andreas , de Faria Vasconcelos Karla , Willems Holger , Jacobs Reinhilde
Published: May 2022

An accurate three-dimensional (3D) segmentation of the maxillary sinus is crucial for multiple diagnostic and treatment applications. Yet, it is challenging and time-consuming when manually performed on a cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) dataset. Recently, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have proven to provide excellent performance in the field of 3D image analysis. Hence, this study developed and validated a novel automated CNN-based methodology for the segmentation of maxillary sinus using CBCT images. A dataset of 264 sinuses were acquired from 2 CBCT devices and randomly divided into 3 subsets: training, validation, and testing. A 3D U-Net architecture CNN model was developed and compared to semi-automatic segmentation in terms of time, accuracy, and consistency. The average time was significantly reduced (p-value < 2.2e−16) by automatic segmentation (0.4 min) compared to semi-automatic segmentation (60.8 min). The model accurately identified the segmented region with a dice similarity co-efficient (DSC) of 98.4%. The inter-observer reliability for minor refinement of automatic segmentation showed an excellent DSC of 99.6%. The proposed CNN model provided a time-efficient, precise, and consistent automatic segmentation which could allow an accurate generation of 3D models for diagnosis and virtual treatment planning.
Classification of severe aortic stenosis and outcomes after aortic valve replacement
Authors: Ahn Yura , Choi Se Jin , Lim Soyeoun , Kim Joon Bum , Song Jong-Min , Kang Duk-Hyun , Song Jae-Kwan , Kim Hwa Jung , Kang Joon-Won , Yang Dong Hyun , Kim Dae-Hee , Koo Hyun Jung
Published: May 2022

Aortic valve calcium scoring by cardiac computed tomographic (CT) has been recommended as an alternative to classify the AS (aortic stenosis) severity, but it is unclear that whether CT findings would have additional value to discriminate significant AS subtypes including high gradient severe AS, classic low-flow, low gradient (LF-LG) AS, paradoxical LF-LG AS, and moderate AS. In this study, we examined the preoperative clinical and cardiac CT findings of different subtypes of AS in patients with surgical aortic valve replacement (AVR) and evaluated the subtype classification as a factor affecting post-surgical outcomes. This study included 511 (66.9 ± 8.8 years, 55% men) consecutive patients with severe AS who underwent surgical AVR. Aortic valve area (AVA) was obtained by echocardiography (AVAecho) and by CT (AVACT) using each modalities measurement of the left ventricular outflow tract. Patients with AS were classified as (1) high-gradient severe (n = 438), (2) classic LF-LG (n = 18), and (3) paradoxical LF-LG (n = 55) based on echocardiography. In all patients, 455 (89.0%) patients were categorized as severe AS according to the AVACT. However, 56 patients were re-classified as moderate AS (43 [9.8%] high-gradient severe AS, 5 [27.8%] classic LF-LG AS, and 8 [14.5%] paradoxical LF-LG AS) by AVACT. The classic LF-LG AS group presented larger AVACT and aortic annulus than those in high-gradient severe AS group and one third of them had AVACT ≥ 1.2 cm2. After multivariable adjustment, old age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.04, P = 0.049), high B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) (HR, 1.005; P < 0.001), preoperative atrial fibrillation (HR, 2.75; P = 0.003), classic LF-LG AS (HR, 5.53, P = 0.004), and small aortic annulus on CT (HR, 0.57; P = 0.002) were independently associated with major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) after surgical AVR.
Heterogeneous genetic landscape of congenital neutropenia in Korean patients revealed by whole exome sequencing: genetic, phenotypic and histologic correlations
Authors: Jeong Dajeong , Kim Sung-Min , Min Byung Joo , Kim Ju Han , Ju Young Seok , Ahn Yong-Oon , Yun Jiwon , Lee Young Eun , Kwon Seok Ryun , Park Jae Hyeon , Yoon Jong Hyun , Lee Dong Soon
Published: May 2022

Congenital neutropenia (CN) is a hematological disease heterogeneous in its genetic, phenotypic and histologic aspects. We aimed to identify the genetic etiology of Korean CN patients in the context of bone marrow (BM) histology and clinical phenotype. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) or targeted sequencing was performed on the BM or peripheral blood specimens of 16 patients diagnosed with CN based on BM exam from 2009 to 2018. Absolute count of myeloperoxidase (MPO)-positive cells was calculated using ImageJ software. Semi-quantitation of MPO-positive cells in BM sections was performed by MPO grading (grades 0–3). Comprehensive retrospective review on real-world data of 345 pediatric patients with neutropenia including 16 patients in this study during the same period was performed. Seven disease-causing variants were identified in ELANE, G6PC3 and CXCR4 in 7 patients. A novel homozygous G6PC3 variant (K72fs) of which the mechanism was copy-neutral loss of heterozygosity was detected in two brothers. A low myeloid-to-erythroid ratio (0.5–1.5) was consistently observed in patients with ELANE mutations, while MPO-positive cells (40%–50%) with MPO grade 1 or 2 were detected in myelokathexis caused by G6PC3 and CXCR4 mutations. Meanwhile, disease-causing variants were detected in ELANE, TAZ and SLC37A4 in 5 patients by retrospective review of medical records. Our results suggest that following the immunological study and BM exam, WES or an expanded next generation sequencing panel that covers genes related to immunodeficiency and other inherited bone marrow failures as well as CN is recommended for neutropenia patient diagnosis.
Bioinformatic analyses to uncover genes involved in trehalose metabolism in the polyploid sugarcane
Authors: de Oliveira Lauana Pereira , Navarro Bruno Viana , de Jesus Pereira João Pedro , Lopes Adriana Rios , Martins Marina C. M. , Riaño-Pachón Diego Mauricio , Buckeridge Marcos Silveira
Published: May 2022

Trehalose-6-phosphate (T6P) is an intermediate of trehalose biosynthesis that plays an essential role in plant metabolism and development. Here, we comprehensively analyzed sequences from enzymes of trehalose metabolism in sugarcane, one of the main crops used for bioenergy production. We identified protein domains, phylogeny, and in silico expression levels for all classes of enzymes. However, post-translational modifications and residues involved in catalysis and substrate binding were analyzed only in trehalose-6-phosphate synthase (TPS) sequences. We retrieved 71 putative full-length TPS, 93 trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase (TPP), and 3 trehalase (TRE) of sugarcane, showing all their conserved domains, respectively. Putative TPS (Classes I and II) and TPP sugarcane sequences were categorized into well-known groups reported in the literature. We measured the expression levels of the sequences from one sugarcane leaf transcriptomic dataset. Furthermore, TPS Class I has specific N-glycosylation sites inserted in conserved motifs and carries catalytic and binding residues in its TPS domain. Some of these residues are mutated in TPS Class II members, which implies loss of enzyme activity. Our approach retrieved many homo(eo)logous sequences for genes involved in trehalose metabolism, paving the way to discover the role of T6P signaling in sugarcane.
Oxime derivative TFOBO promotes cell death by modulating reactive oxygen species and regulating NADPH oxidase activity in myeloid leukemia
Authors: Jo Ahyoung , Kwak Jae-Hwan , Woo Soo-Yeon , Kim Bo-Young , Son Yonghae , Choi Hee-Seon , Kim Jayoung , Kwon Munju , Cho Hyok-Rae , Eo Seong-Kug , Nam Ji Ho , Kim Hyung-Sik , Baryawno Ninib , Lee Dongjun , Kim Koanhoi
Published: May 2022

Several derivatives derived from the oxime structure have been reported as potential anticancer agents in various cancers. Here, we first tested a novel oxime-containing derivative of 2-((2,4,5-trifluorobenzyl)oxy)benzaldehyde oxime (TFOBO) to evaluate its anticancer effect in myeloid leukemic cells. Compared to (2-((2,4,5-trifluorobenzyl)oxy)phenyl)methanol (TFOPM), the oxime derivative TFOBO suppresses leukemic cell growth by significantly increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and cell death. Leukemic cells treated with TFOBO displayed apoptotic cell death, as indicated by nuclear condensation, DNA fragmentation, and annexin V staining. TFOBO increases Bax/Bcl2 levels, caspase9, and caspase3/7 activity and decreases mitochondrial membrane potential. ROS production was reduced by N-acetyl-l-cysteine, a ROS scavenger, diphenyleneiodonium chloride, a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase inhibitor, after exogenous TFOBO treatment. ROS inhibitors protect leukemic cells from TFOBO-induced cell death. Thus, our study findings suggest that TFOBO promotes apoptosis by modulating ROS and regulating NADPH oxidase activity. Collectively, the oxime-containing derivative TFOBO is a novel therapeutic drug for myeloid leukemia.
Cu and Ni Co-sputtered heteroatomic thin film for enhanced nonenzymatic glucose detection
Authors: Barbee Brianna , Muchharla Baleeswaraiah , Adedeji Adetayo , Karoui Abdennaceur , Kumar Sadasivuni Kishor , Sha Mizaj Shabil , Abdullah Aboubakr M. , Slaughter Gymama , Kumar Bijandra
Published: May 2022

In this work, we report a wafer-scale and chemical-free fabrication of nickel (Ni) and copper (Cu) heteroatomic Cu–Ni thin films using RF magnetron sputtering technique for non-enzymatic glucose sensing application. The as-prepared wafer-scale Cu–Ni thin films exhibits excellent electrocatalytic activity toward glucose oxidation with a 1.86 μM detection limit in the range of 0.01 mM to 20 mM range. The Cu–Ni film shows 1.3- and 5.4-times higher glucose oxidation activity in comparison to the Cu and Ni electrodes, respectively. The improved electrocatalytic activity is attributed to the synergistic effect of the bimetallic catalyst and high density of grain boundaries. The Cu–Ni electrodes also possessed excellent anti-interference characteristics. These results indicate that Cu–Ni heteroatomic thin film can be a potential candidate for the development of non-enzymatic glucose biosensor because of its chemical free synthesis, excellent reproducibility, reusability, and long-term stability.
A randomized controlled trial of the effects of whole grains versus refined grains diets on the microbiome in pregnancy
Authors: Sun Haipeng , Yamada Pamella , Paetow Alexandra , Chan Michael , Arslan Alan , Landberg Rikard , Dominguez-Bello Maria Gloria , Young Bruce K.
Published: May 2022

Dietary whole grain consumption has been postulated to have metabolic benefits. The purpose of this study was to compare a pregnancy diet containing 75% of total carbohydrates as refined grains with a diet of 75% of total carbohydrates as whole grains for pregnancy outcomes and effects on the microbiome. Gestational weight gain, glucose tolerance and newborn outcomes were measured on 248 enrolled compliant women from whom a subset of 103 women consented to give 108 vaginal and 109 anal swabs. The data presented here are limited to the patients from whom the vaginal and anal swabs were obtained in order to study the microbiome. A microbiome—16SrRNA survey—was characterized in these samples. Samples and measurements were obtained at the first obstetrical visit, before beginning a prescribed diet (T1—baseline) and after 17–32 weeks on the prescribed diet (T3). Food frequency questionnaires and total plasma alkylresorcinols were used as a measure of whole grain consumption. There were no dietary differences in maternal weight gain, birth weight, or glucose tolerance test. Mothers consuming the whole grains diet showed a trend of gestational decrease in vaginal bacterial alpha diversity, with increasing Lactobacillus-dominance. No significant difference was observed for the anal microbiome. The results suggest that diet modulations of the vaginal microbiome during gestation may have important implications for maternal and neonatal health and in the intergenerational transfer of maternal microbiome.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03232762.
The footprint of ship anchoring on the seafloor
Authors: Watson Sally J. , Ribó Marta , Seabrook Sarah , Strachan Lorna J. , Hale Rachel , Lamarche Geoffroy
Published: May 2022

With the COVID-19 pandemic came what media has deemed the “port congestion pandemic”. Intensified by the pandemic, the commonplace anchoring of high-tonnage ships causes a substantial geomorphologial footprint on the seabed outside marine ports globally, but isn’t yet quantified. We present the first characterisation of the footprint and extent of anchoring in a low congestion port in New Zealand-Aotearoa, demonstrating that high-tonnage ship anchors excavate the seabed by up to 80 cm, with the impacts preserved for at least 4 years. The calcuated volume of sediment displaced by one high-tonnage ship (> 9000 Gross Tonnage) on anchor can reach 2800 m3. Scaled-up globally, this provides the first estimates of the footprint of anchoring to the coastal seabed, worldwide. Seafloor damage due to anchoring has far-reaching implications for already stressed marine ecosystems and carbon cycling. As seaborne trade is projected to quadruple by 2050, the poorly constrained impacts of anchoring must be considered to avoid irreversible damage to marine habitats.
Proteins in human body fluids contain in vivo antigen analog of the melibiose-derived glycation product: MAGE
Authors: Gostomska-Pampuch Kinga , Gamian Andrzej , Rawicz-Pruszyński Karol , Gęca Katarzyna , Tkaczuk-Włach Joanna , Jonik Ilona , Ożga Kinga , Staniszewska Magdalena
Published: May 2022

Melibiose-derived AGE (MAGE) is an advanced glycation end-product formed in vitro in anhydrous conditions on proteins and protein-free amino acids during glycation with melibiose. Our previous studies revealed the presence of MAGE antigen in the human body and tissues of several other species, including muscles, fat, extracellular matrix, and blood. MAGE is also antigenic and induces generation of anti-MAGE antibody. The aim of this paper was to identify the proteins modified by MAGE present in human body fluids, such as serum, plasma, and peritoneal fluids. The protein-bound MAGE formed in vivo has been isolated from human blood using affinity chromatography on the resin with an immobilized anti-MAGE monoclonal antibody. Using mass spectrometry and immunochemistry it has been established that MAGE epitope is present on several human blood proteins including serum albumin, IgG, and IgA. In serum of diabetic patients, mainly the albumin and IgG were modified by MAGE, while in healthy subjects IgG and IgA carried this modification, suggesting the novel AGE can impact protein structure, contribute to auto-immunogenicity, and affect function of immunoglobulins. Some proteins in peritoneal fluid from cancer patients modified with MAGE were also observed and it indicates a potential role of MAGE in cancer.
Persistence of C-reactive protein increased levels and high disease activity are predictors of cardiovascular disease in patients with axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: Navarini Luca , Currado Damiano , Marino Annalisa , Di Donato Stefano , Biaggi Alice , Caso Francesco , Costa Luisa , Tasso Marco , Ruscitti Piero , Pavlych Viktoriya , Berardicurti Onorina , Ciancio Antonio , Pantano Ilenia , Camarda Federica , Chimenti Maria Sole , D’Antonio Arianna , Ursini Francesco , Corrado Addolorata , Cantatore Francesco Paolo , Perricone Roberto , Guggino Giuliana , Ciccia Francesco , Cipriani Paola , Scarpa Raffaele , Afeltra Antonella , Giacomelli Roberto
Published: May 2022

An accurate prediction of cardiovascular (CV) risk in patients with Axial Spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a strong unmet need, as CV risk algorithms poorly perform in these subjects. The aim of this study was to establish whether the persistence of high C-reactive protein (CRP) and high disease activity may be considered predictive factors of CVD in axSpA. 295 patients without personal history of CVD, were consecutively enrolled in this study. To evaluate the relationship between CV events occurrence (fatal and non-fatal) and the persistence of increased CRP levels, ASDAS (Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score) > 2.1, and BASDAI (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity) > 4 during the follow-up, univariable and multivariable Cox Proportional Hazard Models have been performed. During follow-up (we analyzed 10-years retrospective data), 23 patients had a CV event. Multivariable Cox Proportional Hazard Models showed a strong association between CV event and the persistency of increased CRP levels (namely, percentage of visits in which CRP levels were increased) (HR = 1.03; 95%CI 1.015–1.045; p < 0.001), of ASDAS > 2.1 (HR = 1.014, 95%CI 1.000–1.028, p = 0.047), and of BASDAI > 4 (HR 1.019, 95%CI 1.006–1.033, p = 0.006) during follow-up, after adjustment for age, sex, and diabetes. This study suggests that persistence of increased CRP levels and high disease activity may be considered biomarkers to identify those axSpA patients at higher risk of CVD. Innovative axSpA-specific CV risk score, including these variables, have to be developed.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: The numerical study of pressure and temperature effects on mechanical properties of baghdadite-based nanostructure: molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Liu Qun , Bykanova Olga , Akhmadeev Ravil , Baghaie Shaghaiegh , Hekmatifar Maboud , Arefpour Ahmadreza , Sabetvand Roozbeh , Borisov Vitaliy
Published: May 2022

Bioceramics have been commonly implemented to replace and restore hard tissues such as teeth and bones in recent years. Among different bioceramics, Baghdadite (BAG) has high bioactivity due to its ability to form apatite and stimulate cell proliferation. So, this structure is used widely for medical applications to treat bone-based diseases. Physically, we expect changes in temperature and pressure to affect the Baghdadite-based nanostructure’s mechanical behaviour. So, in this computational study, we report the pressure/temperature effect on Baghdadite matrix with nanoscale size by using Molecular Dynamics (MD) approach. To this end, physical values like the total energy, temperature, final strength (FS), stress–strain curve, potential energy, and Young’s modulus (YM) are reported. Simulation results indicated the mechanical properties of Baghdadite (BAG) nanostructure weakened by temperature and pressure increase. Numerically, the FS and YM of the defined structure reach 131.40 MPa/159.43 MPa, and 115.15 MPa/139.72 MPa with temperature/pressure increasing. Therefore, the increase in initial pressure and temperature leads to a decrease in the mechanical properties of nanostructures. These results indicate the importance of the initial condition in the Baghdadite-based nanostructures’ mechanical behaviour that must be considered in clinical applications.
Patterns of sexual and HIV-related stigma among men who have sex with men and women living with HIV in Haiti
Authors: Dévieux Jessy G. , Vertovec John , Jean-Gilles Michèle , Rosenberg Rhonda , René Cassandra , Cyrus Elena , Jean Samuel Emieux , Dunbar Willy
Published: May 2022

Vulnerability to contracting HIV among Men who have Sex with Men and Women (MSMW) was recognized early in the epidemic. However, while global HIV efforts have made tremendous progress for the heterosexually-identified population, the specific needs of MSMW were not directly addressed with tailored and context-adapted interventions. The purpose of this study was to inform this area of research by exploring patterns of stigma through sexual identity developmental history as well as coping mechanisms among MSMW living with HIV in Haiti. A qualitative descriptive study comprised of in-depth interviews with 32 MSMW living with HIV was carried out. Participants were recruited using snowball techniques. An inductive thematic analysis was conducted in NVivo, contextualized by the socio-ecological context of Haiti. MSMW reported struggling with their sexuality since their adolescence, often because of enacted stigma from family members, the community, and cultural conflicts. Most participants described experiencing anxiety, psychological distress, depression, social isolation, suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. Mechanisms for coping with stigma included self-acceptance, social support, hiding their sexual orientation, and tolerance of the voodoo religion. To combat stigma, and improve HIV treatment adherence and retention among MSMW, culturally-tailored multilevel initiatives should be implemented.
Sourcing Herod the Great's calcite-alabaster bathtubs by a multi-analytic approach
Authors: Amir Ayala , Frumkin Amos , Zissu Boaz , Maeir Aren M. , Goobes Gil , Albeck Amnon
Published: May 2022

Herod “the Great”, king of Judea in the second half of the first century BC, was known for his building projects, wealth, and political power. Two of his personal calcite-alabaster bathtubs, found in the Kypros fortress and the palace of Herodium, are among the very limited archaeological evidence of his private life. It seemed plausible that they were imported from Egypt, the main source of calcite-alabaster in ancient periods. Yet, the recent identification of a calcite quarry in the Te’omim cave, Israel, challenges this hypothesis. Here, we developed an approach for identification of the source of calcite-alabaster, by combination of four analytical methods: ICP, FTIR, ssNMR and isotope ratio. These methods were then applied to Herod’s bathtubs demonstrating that they were indeed quarried in Israel rather than in Egypt.
Recent developments of iridium-based catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction in acidic water electrolysis
Authors: Wu Hongxiang , Wang Yibo , Shi Zhaoping , Wang Xue , Yang Jiahao , Xiao Meiling , Ge Junjie , Xing Wei , Liu Changpeng
Published: May 2022

Advanced optimization strategies for Ir-based oxygen evolution catalysts include morphological regulation, heteroatomic doping, crystal phase control, and support introduction.
A facile visualized solid-phase detection of virus-specific nucleic acid sequences through an upconversion activated linear luminescence recovery process
Authors: Liu Xiaorong , He Chaonan , Huang Qi , Yu Mengmeng , Qiu Zhuang , Cheng Haoxin , Yang Yifei , Hao Xian , Wang Xiaolei
Published: May 2022

Based on the LRET between UCNPs and AuNPs, a solid-phase biosensor was developed for detection of virus-specific nucleic acid sequences by the naked eye, and is expected to become a fast, facile, efficient and reliable POCT platform.
Mixed superalkalis are a better choice than pure superalkalis for B12N12 nanocages to design high-performance nonlinear optical materials
Authors: Bano Rehana , Ayub Khurshid , Mahmood Tariq , Arshad Muhammad , Sharif Ahsan , Tabassum Sobia , Gilani Mazhar Amjad
Published: May 2022

Mixed superalkali clusters are a better source of excess electrons, as their vertical ionization energies (2.81–3.36 eV) are much lower than those of alkali metals (even cesium (∼3.85 eV)) and the superalkali Li3O (3.42 eV).
From saliva to SNP: non-invasive, point-of-care genotyping for precision medicine applications using recombinase polymerase amplification and giant magnetoresistive nanosensors
Authors: de Olazarra Ana Sofia , Cortade Dana Lee , Wang Shan X.
Published: May 2022

We present a portable, highly integrated platform that employs isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification and giant magnetoresistive nanosensors to perform multiplex SNP genotyping at the point-of-care.
BiFeO3 photocathodes for efficient H2O2 production via charge carrier dynamics engineering
Authors: Zhang Zemin , Tan Bing , Ma Wenjun , Liu Bo , Sun Mengdi , Cooper Jason K. , Han Weihua
Published: May 2022

A remarkable advance in BiFeO3-based photocathodes was achieved by introducing a functional charge collection layer to boost the charge carrier dynamics by reducing the charge transport barrier and prolonging the lifetime of photocarriers.
A facile synthesis of hierarchically porous graphene for high-performance lithium storage
Authors: Feng Chenming , Lu Yi , Liu Yixuan , Yang Xiaoyu , Tian Ge
Published: May 2022

Hierarchically porous graphene with macro-mesopores is highly desired for enhancing lithium storage.
A synthesis of fuctionalized 2-amino-3-cyano pyrroles from terminal alkynes, sulfonyl azides and phenacylmalononitriles
Authors: Yavari Issa , Ghorbanzadeh Meysam , Akbarzadeh Somayeh
Published: May 2022

A new strategy for the construction of functionalized 2-amino-3-cyano pyrroles has been developed.
A stepwise one-pot synthesis of aliphatic thiols and their derivatives from acrylamides and sulfur
Authors: Németh András Gy. , Szabó Renáta , Németh Krisztina , Keserű György M. , Ábrányi-Balogh Péter
Published: May 2022

Investigation of the reactivity of sulfur towards electron deficient alkenes revealed a new method to generate polysulfides from acrylamides, which can be further transformed to thiols and its derivatives.
One-pot synthesis of phosphorylnaphth[2,1-d]oxazoles and products as P,N-ligands in C–N and C–C formation
Authors: Peng Lingteng , Hu Zhifang , Zhao Yanting , Peng Lifen , Xu Zhi , Yin Shuang-Feng , Tang Zilong , Qiu Renhua , Kambe Nobuaki
Published: May 2022

Phosphanylnaphtho[2,1-d]oxazoles, a P,N-chelating ligand, were synthesized through one-pot phosphonation/Cu-catalyzed oxidative condensation, followed by methylation and reduction.
A potential link between the structure of iron catalysts and Fenton-like performance: from fundamental understanding to engineering design
Authors: Li Ling , Yin Zhuo , Cheng Min , Qin Lei , Liu Shiyu , Yi Huan , Zhang Mingming , Fu Yukui , Yang Lu , Tang Chensi , Zhou Xuerong , Xu Fuhang , Zeng Guangming , Lai Cui
Published: May 2022

Modulating the structure of Fe catalysts is possible to alter the exposure of active sites, electron density around active sites, coordination number, charge transfer or mass transfer limitation, and thus affect Fenton-like catalytic activity.
Molecularly imprinted CsPbBr3 quantum dot-based fluorescent sensor for trace tetracycline detection in aqueous environments
Authors: Wei Xiao , Zhang Shen , Wang Tong , Chen Aixia , Guo Jifeng , Bai Bo , Yang Shengke , Li Yaqian , Wang Xinyi , Liu Xinni
Published: May 2022

A sensitive, selective fluorescent sensor combining luminescent CsPbBr3 quantum dots and molecularly imprinted polymers was developed for detecting trace tetracycline in aqueous environments.
A Tool for Differential Diagnosis of Childhood Apraxia of Speech and Dysarthria in Children: A Tutorial
Authors: Iuzzini-Seigel Jenya , Allison Kristen M. , Stoeckel Ruth
Published: May 2022

Purpose:

While there has been mounting research centered on the diagnosis of childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), little has focused on differentiating CAS from pediatric dysarthria. Because CAS and dysarthria share overlapping speech symptoms and some children have both motor speech disorders, differential diagnosis can be challenging. There is a need for clinical tools that facilitate assessment of both CAS and dysarthria symptoms in children. The goals of this tutorial are to (a) determine confidence levels of clinicians in differentially diagnosing dysarthria and CAS and (b) provide a systematic procedure for differentiating CAS and pediatric dysarthria in children.

Method:

Evidence related to differential diagnosis of CAS and dysarthria is reviewed. Next, a web-based survey of 359 pediatric speech-language pathologists is used to determine clinical confidence levels in diagnosing CAS and dysarthria. Finally, a checklist of pediatric auditory–perceptual motor speech features is presented along with a procedure to identify CAS and dysarthria in children with suspected motor speech impairments. Case studies illustrate application of this protocol, and treatment implications for complex cases are discussed.

Results:

The majority (60%) of clinician respondents reported low or no confidence in diagnosing dysarthria in children, and 40% reported they tend not to make this diagnosis as a result. Going forward, clinicians can use the feature checklist and protocol in this tutorial to support the differential diagnosis of CAS and dysarthria in clinical practice.

Conclusions:

Incorporating this diagnostic protocol into clinical practice should help increase confidence and accuracy in diagnosing motor speech disorders in children. Future research should test the sensitivity and specificity of this protocol in a large sample of children with varying speech sound disorders. Graduate programs and continuing education trainings should provide opportunities to practice rating speech features for children with dysarthria and CAS.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.19709146
Performance analysis of one‐source‐with‐one‐helper transmission over shadowed κ$\kappa$‐μ$\mu$ fading multiple access channels
Authors: Qian Shen , He Jiguang , Zhou Xiaobo , Imai Takamasa , Matrumoto Tad
Published: May 2022

The performance of correlated sources transmission over multiple access shadowed ‐ fading channels is investigated, in which one of the correlated sources needs to be recovered at the destination, whereas the other serves as a helper. The sufficient condition for lossless coding is determined by the intersection of the modified Slepian–Wolf region and the multiple access channel region. The outage probability upper bounds are derived based on the sufficient condition, with the Gaussian codebook capacity and the constellation constrained capacity, respectively. The difference between the outage probabilities derived with the two kinds of capacities is found to be very minor, when the spectrum efficiency or source rate is low; however, with high spectrum efficiency or high source rate, such difference becomes significant. A closed‐form outage approximation is also obtained at the high signal‐to‐noise ratio region. The accuracy of the analytical results is verified by the Monte‐Carlo simulations. It is found that shadowing significantly affects the outage performance, however, it has no effect on the diversity gain. Furthermore, the power allocation between the source and the helper is studied to minimize the outage probability and it is found that generally more power should be allocated to the helper in the case with higher source‐helper correlation.
Effective capacity optimization for UDN
Authors: Xie Shaoguo , Ai Liefu , Xu Wenquan
Published: May 2022

For the ultra‐dense distributed network (UDN), the intensive deployment leads to the collision problem of the unlicensed spectrum access due to the random contention access mechanism of the unlicensed spectrum, which is difficult to improve the user quality of service (QoS). Here, the wireless access process of the licensed assisted access (LAA) network is modelled as a four‐state semi‐Markov model. Then, the effective capacity (EC) of the UDN based on the random access is derived, and the network capacity limit under the QoS requirements in the unlicensed spectrum is given. Based on the obtained EC, two power control algorithms are proposed to maximize the EC and effective energy efficiency (EEE) respectively under the user QoS requirements. Finally, numerical results verify the accuracy of the proposed theory, and the capacity‐delay domain of the UDN is given. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithms improve the EC and the EEE compared with existing classical schemes.
Senti‐eXLM: Uyghur enhanced sentiment analysis model based on XLM
Authors: Li Siyu , Zhao Kui , Yang Jin , Jiang Xinyun , Li Zhengji , Ma Zicheng
Published: May 2022

In the field of public opinion analysis, sentiment analysis is an important basic research branch. Previous studies have successfully proved that the advanced transformer pre‐training model can be applied to this scenario in Uyghur and other low‐resource language scenarios. However, the majority of these studies are based on the traditional language anchor point and rely on the pre‐training model's cross‐lingual understanding ability. The Senti‐eXLM model proposed in this paper employs a method that allows for adaptively expanding the model's knowledge domain and dynamically adjusting the model for Uyghur language in order to improve the language's understanding and representation capability, thereby increasing the accuracy of text emotion analysis. Experiments on publicly available data sets demonstrate that when compared to the original model, the model's emotion classification accuracy is improved by 6.17%, the training convergence speed is increased by 27%, and the average reasoning time is increased by only 11%.
Secrecy performance evaluation of cooperative vehicular relay networks against location‐uncertain eavesdroppers
Authors: Huang Shanchuan , Huang Xiujie , Zhao Shancheng , Tang Siyun , Lin Lei
Published: May 2022

This letter is concerned with the physical layer security of the cooperative vehicular relay network where a source vehicle communicates with a destination vehicle via both a direct link in the presence of a location‐uncertain eavesdropping vehicle and an indirect link with the help of an amplify‐and‐forward relay vehicle. Based on the double‐Rayleigh fading model for all links, an approximate analytical expression of the average secrecy capacity of the considered system is derived. This analysis on the average secrecy capacity is shown to be validated by Monte‐Carlo simulations and numerical computations. The simulation and numerical results also demonstrate the effects of the uncertainty of the eavesdropper's location and the relay's location on the average secrecy capacity.
Virtual model predictive control of the inverter to achieve unbalance compensation for islanded and grid‐tied operations
Authors: Li Zhenwei , Li Haoyu , Zheng Xuemei , Gao Mengyou , Yu Yanxue
Published: May 2022

Voltage unbalance is a frequent problem in the power system, and using renewable energy power generation devices to achieve unbalance compensation is a promising solution compared to adding additional equipment. Most of the existing unbalance compensation schemes for inverters are implemented based on cascaded linear controllers, which have obvious disadvantages of complex structure and cumbersome parameter adjustment process. In order to develop a simpler unbalance compensation scheme, this paper first derives the equivalent sequence network (ESN) model of the unbalanced three‐phase power system, and it reveals the important role of transmission line impedance in the unbalance problem. Inspired by the ESN model, an unbalance compensation scheme based on negative sequence virtual impedance (NSVI) is determined. Then the NSVI is embedded in the inverter mathematical model, and the virtual model predictive control (VMPC) of the inverter to achieve unbalance compensation is proposed. Finally, the proposed VMPC method is validated by experiments, and a comparative analysis is carried out with linear control methods. The development process and validation results show that, compared with the unbalance compensation scheme based on cascaded linear controllers, the VMPC method proposed in this paper has a simpler structure and stable performance.
New objective function of parameters extraction of photovoltaic modules for plummeting execution time complexity
Authors: Diab Ahmed A. Zaki , Al Sumaiti Ameena , Ezzat A. A. , Rafaat Amr E. , Denis Kotin A. , El‐Magd Ayat Gamal Abo
Published: May 2022

Building precise solar cells and PV modules models is indispensable for constructing I–V and P–V features. A crucial difficulty in the estimation process is time complexity. The application of optimization algorithms to solve the photovoltaics (PV) parameter estimation requires solving the mathematical equation through numerical analysis methods with an iterative process, leading to an increase in time complexity. This paper proposes a new objective function (OF) that can be solved using algebraic mathematics. The consequence of the proposed OF is to decrease the time and cost of implementation by reducing the complexity. The designed procedure has been tested and evaluated by estimating the PV parameters of two cases of study using Single Diode Model (SDM). The results have been validated with those obtained using the conventional OF. The paper also presented a new application of the recent optimization algorithm of the Dingo Optimization Algorithm (DOA) to reach the optimal solution for the OFs. With the proposed linear OF, the results demonstrate a 21.96% reduction in the simulation time over the nonlinear OF concerning a difference among them of 2.5460e‐06. The simulation results with statistical tests have proved the superiority of the new OF in the parameter estimation process.
A comprehensive state‐of‐the‐art review of power conditioning systems for energy storage systems: Topology and control applications in power systems
Authors: Rafaq Muhammad Saad , Basit Bilal Abdul , Mohammed Sadeq Ali Qasem , Jung Jin‐Woo
Published: May 2022

Energy storage systems are pivotal for maximising the utilisation of renewable energy sources for smart grid and microgrid systems. Among the ongoing advancements in energy storage systems, the power conditioning systems for energy storage systems represent an area that can be significantly improved by using advanced power electronics converter designs and control techniques. Normally, the battery, flywheel, ultracapacitor and superconducting magnetic energy storage are the types of energy storage systems that typically require power conditioning systems for efficient bidirectional power flows. Compared to the previous review papers, this paper critically reviews the power conditioning system configurations and control techniques from the perspective of energy storage system applications in the power systems. First, the power conditioning systems are categorised into DC bus power conditioning systems and AC bus power conditioning systems based on the output voltage types at the connected point. Next, the topologies and control configurations of popular power electronics are comparatively analysed to highlight their advantages and power system applications. Moreover, the control configurations are discussed in terms of the popular applications of energy storage systems, that is, power backup smoothing, frequency regulation, voltage regulation and power quality applications. In addition, the latest developments in the energy storage system such as multi‐functional energy storage system stacking, artificial intelligence for power conditioning system of energy storage systems and security of control of energy storage systems are critically analysed. Finally, the review is concluded by discussing industrial applications and future research trends for the power conditioning systems of energy storage systems.
Alcove formation in dissolving cliffs driven by density inversion instability
Authors: Sharma Ram Sudhir , Berhanu Michael , Kudrolli Arshad
Published: May 2022

We demonstrate conditions that give rise to cave-like features commonly found in dissolving cliffsides with a minimal two-phase physical model. Alcoves that are wider at the top and tapered at the bottom, with sharp-edged ceilings and sloping floors, are shown to develop on vertical solid surfaces dissolving in aqueous solvents. As evident from descending plumes, sufficiently large indentations evolve into alcoves as a result of the faster dissolution of the ceiling due to a solutal Rayleigh–Bénard density inversion instability. In contrast, defects of size below the boundary layer thickness set by the critical Rayleigh number smooth out, leading to stable planar interfaces. The ceiling recession rate and the alcove opening area evolution are shown to be given to first-order by the critical Rayleigh number. By tracking passive tracers in the fluid phase, we show that the alcoves are shaped by the detachment of the boundary layer flow and the appearance of a pinned vortex at the leading edge of the indentations. The attached boundary layer past the developing alcove is then found to lead to rounding of the other sides and the gradual sloping of the floor.
Production and growing regions.
Authors: Ferrara G. , Mazzeo A. , Colasuonno P. , Marcotuli I.
Published: May 2022

The economic importance of fig production is likely to continue into the future since the growing interest of consumers in this 'minor' fruit species. In the world market, there is an increasing demand for fresh figs and a stable demand for dried figs. This chapter presents the worldwide distribution of fig production. The most important fig producers are Turkey, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Iran, Spain and Syria. The United States (California), Tunisia, Afghanistan, Albania, Brazil, Greece, China, India and Japan are recent (or less recent) and important production areas.
Biodiversity, germplasm resources and breeding methods.
Authors: Ikegami H. , Hormaza J. I. , Balas F. C. , Serradilla M. J. , López-Corrales M.
Published: May 2022

This chapter focuses on basic matters pertaining to fig (Ficus carica) breeding. Specifically, it discusses fig genetic resources that form the foundation of breeding and genetic diversity, breeding history, target traits of the breeding process and the characteristics and application of conventional and contemporary breeding methods.
Propagation techniques and nursery management.
Authors: Yakushiji H. , Ertan E. , Ertan B. , Dalkılıç G. Günver
Published: May 2022

This chapter discusses recent research on fig propagation techniques, i.e. use of seeds, cuttings, layering, budding, grafting and tissue culture, and the efficacy of various nursery management methods, such as soilless cultivation and rootstock production, among others.
Environmental requirements and site selection.
Authors: Polat A. Aytekin , Sarkhosh A.
Published: May 2022

This paper explores the environmental requirements and site selection of Ficus carica. The ideal conditions for dried fig production are: temperate and rainy winters, 30-40°C summer temperatures especially in July-September, 45-50% relative humidity, alluvial, clayish-loam soil, and average annual precipitation of around 650 mm. Growing fig trees in intensive production systems under hydroponic and greenhouse conditions is an excellent alternative production system since it allows increasing leaf area index, harvest index and fruit yield in relation to the total biomass of the plant. In site selection for greenhouse production, most of the same factors as used in siting an orchard location should be considered: topography, soil and water quantity and quality, and marketing factors. In addition, the most important greenhouse factors such as light, temperature, relative humidity, precipitation and ventilation should be considered, as well as the most important marketing or economic factors such as road transportation, market accessibility (proximity to settlements, market demands), availability of services (fuel, fertilizer, disinfectant and electricity), and availability of labor.