bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shear Zone Development in Serpentinized Mantle: Implications for the Strength of Oceanic Transform Faults
Authors: Cox Sophie , Fagereng Åke , MacLeod Christopher J.
Published: April 2021

Oceanic transform faults display fewer and smaller‐magnitude earthquakes than expected for their length. Several mechanisms have been inferred to explain this seismic slip deficit, including increased fault zone damage resulting in elevated fluid flow, and the alteration of olivine to serpentine. However, to date, these possible mechanisms are not supported by direct observation. We use micro to kilometer scale observations from an exhumed oceanic transform fault in the Troodos Ophiolite, Cyprus, to determine mineral‐scale deformation mechanisms and infer likely controls on seismic behavior of serpentinized lithospheric mantle in active oceanic transform faults. We document a range of deformation fabrics including massive, scaly and phyllonitic serpentinite, attesting to mixed brittle‐ductile deformation within serpentinite shear zones. The progressive development of a foliation, with cumulative strain, is an efficient weakening mechanism in scaly and phyllonitic serpentinite. Further weakening is promoted by a transition in the serpentine polytype from lizardite‐dominated massive and scaly serpentinites to chrysotile‐dominated phyllonitic serpentinite. The development of a foliation and polytype transition requires dissolution‐precipitation processes. Discrete faults and fractures locally crosscut, but are also deformed by, foliated serpentinites. These brittle structures can be explained by local and transient elevated strain rates, and play a crucial role in strain localization by providing positive feedback for dissolution‐precipitation by increasing permeability. We propose that the evolution in structure and deformation style documented within the serpentinized lithospheric mantle of the Southern Troodos Transform Fault Zone is a viable explanation for the dominantly creeping behavior and long‐term weakness of oceanic transform faults.
Biolability of Fresh and Photodegraded Pyrogenic Dissolved Organic Matter From Laboratory‐Prepared Chars
Authors: Bostick K. W. , Zimmerman A. R. , Goranov A. I. , Mitra S. , Hatcher P. G. , Wozniak A. S.
Published: April 2021

Pyrogenic dissolved organic matter (pyDOM) is known to be an important biogeochemical constituent of aquatic ecosystems and the carbon cycle. While recent studies have examined how pyDOM production, composition, and photolability varies with parent pyrogenic solid material type, we lack an understanding of potential microbial mineralization and transformation of pyDOM in the biogeosphere. Thus, leachates of oak, charred at 400 °C and 650 °C, as well as their photodegraded counterparts were incubated with a soil‐extracted microbial consortium over 96 days. During the incubation, significantly more carbon was biomineralized from the lower versus higher temperature char leachate (45% vs. 37% lost, respectively). Further, the photodegraded leachates were biomineralized to significantly greater extents than their fresh non‐photodegraded counterparts. Kinetic modeling identified the mineralizable pyDOC fractions to have half‐lives of 9–13 days. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy indicated that the majority of this loss could be attributed to low molecular weight constituents of pyDOM (i.e., simple alcohols and acids). Further, the quantification of benzenepolycarboxylic acid (BPCA) molecular markers indicated that condensed aromatic compounds in pyDOM were biomineralized to much lesser extents (4.4% and 10.1% decrease in yields of ΣBPCA‐C over 66 days from 400 °C and 650 °C oak pyDOM, respectively), but most of this loss could be attributed to the biomineralization of smaller condensed clusters (four aromatic rings or less). These results highlight the contrasting bioavailability of different portions of pyDOM, and the need to examine both to evaluate its role in soil or aquatic heterotrophy and its environmental fate in the hydrogeosphere.
Role of Shale Deformation in the Structural Development of a Deepwater Gravitational System in the Niger Delta
Authors: Zhang Jiajia , Wu Shenghe , Hu Guangyi , Yue Dali , Xu Zhenhua , Chen Cheng , Zhang Ke , Wang Junjie , Wen Siying
Published: April 2021

This paper presents a three‐dimensional (3D) seismic‐based case study (∼1,200 km2) from the deepwater Niger Delta to examine the role of shale deformation in the structural development of a deepwater gravitational system. Tectono‐stratigraphic interpretation reveals that this system consists of two sets of major fold‐thrusts laterally separated by a central oblique detachment fold. A prominent shale thick beneath these structures is believed to have originated from tectonic deformation rather than a pretectonic thick, due to its complex internal structures. Seismic mapping of the growth units indicates synchronous initiation of the oblique detachment fold with the main thrusts and gradual growth in response to thickening shales. Downslope gravitational contraction is not considered the direct cause for the oblique shale‐detachment fold. Evidence from the 3D shale distribution and deformation styles within the shale unit reveals that shales that were squeezed out of adjacent shale‐thinning areas “flowed” laterally into the detachment‐fold core. Based on the spatial variation in structural deformation and growth strata distribution, this study proposes a model that considers differential contraction and differential loading from syntectonic sediments as two key factors leading to the 3D shale redistribution which ultimately determines the deformation styles and evolution history within the overburden. Additionally, seismic imaging within the shale unit recognizes various internal structures ranging from hundreds to thousands of meters in scale, and confirms what has been suggested in previous studies, that redistribution of shales occurred through a combination of multiscale brittle failures, ductile folding, and plastic flows.
Mapping the People, Places, and Problems of Permafrost Thaw
Authors: Besl J.
Published: April 2021

By combining demography data with permafrost maps, researchers provide a first count of the population on permafrost and predict its imminent decline.
Anti-inflammatory activity of psoralen in human periodontal ligament cells via estrogen receptor signaling pathway
Authors: Li Huxiao , Xu Jianrong , Li Xiaotian , Hu Yi , Liao Yue , Zhou Wei , Song Zhongchen
Published: April 2021

Psoralen is one of the most effective ingredients extracted from the Chinese herb, Psoralea corylifolia L. Studies have found that psoralen has anti-inflammatory and estrogen-like effects; however, little research has been conducted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects. Through the molecule docking assay, psoralen was found to have a better combination with ERα than ERβ. In human periodontal ligament cells, psoralen was found to upregulate the estrogen target genes (e.g., CTSD, PGR, TFF1) and down-regulate the expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8) stimulated by P. gingivalis LPS, as well as TLR4-IRAK4-NF-κb signaling pathway proteins. These effects were reversed by the ER antagonist ICI 182780. These results indicated that psoralen may exert anti-inflammatory effects as an agonist to ER, which could provide a theoretical basis for the use of psoralen for adjuvant therapy and prevention of periodontitis.
A multimodal analysis of physical activity, sleep, and work shift in nurses with wearable sensor data
Authors: Feng Tiantian , Booth Brandon M. , Baldwin-Rodríguez Brooke , Osorno Felipe , Narayanan Shrikanth
Published: April 2021

Night shift workers are often associated with circadian misalignment and physical discomfort, which may lead to burnout and decreased work performance. Moreover, the irregular work hours can lead to significant negative health outcomes such as poor eating habits, smoking, and being sedentary more often. This paper uses commercial wearable sensors to explore correlates and differences in the level of physical activity, sleep, and circadian misalignment indicators among day shift nurses and night shift nurses. We identify which self-reported assessments of affect, life satisfaction, and sleep quality, are associated with physiological and behavioral signals captured by wearable sensors. The results using data collected from 113 nurses in a large hospital setting, over a period of 10 weeks, indicate that night shift nurses are more sedentary, and report lower levels of life satisfaction than day-shift nurses. Moreover, night shift nurses report poorer sleep quality, which may be correlated with challenges in their attempts to fall asleep on off-days.
Controlling chaos by the system size
Authors: Ghadiri Mahdi , Krechetnikov Rouslan
Published: April 2021

Despite the ubiquity of physical systems evolving on time-dependent spatial domains, understanding their regular and chaotic dynamics is still in a rudimentary state. While chaos implies that the system’s behavior can be altered by small perturbations, this sensitivity proves to be useful for control purposes. Here we report on the experimental discovery of a novel mechanism to control chaos by time-variation of the system (spatial domain) size: depending upon the rate of the latter, the chaotic state may be completely prevented. Our experimental observations are disentangled with theoretical insights and numerical modeling, which also reveals the ability to control spatio-temporal chaos, thus making the findings relevant to a wide range of natural phenomena.
A novel assessment considering spatial and temporal variations of water quality to identify pollution sources in urban rivers
Authors: Yang Sihang , Liang Manchun , Qin Zesheng , Qian Yiwu , Li Mei , Cao Yi
Published: April 2021

It’s vital to explore critical indicators when identifying potential pollution sources of urban rivers. However, the variations of urban river water qualities following temporal and spatial disturbances were highly local-dependent, further complicating the understanding of pollution emission laws. In order to understand the successional trajectory of water qualities of urban rivers and the underlying mechanisms controlling these dynamics at local scale, we collected daily monitoring data for 17 physical and chemical parameters from seven on-line monitoring stations in Nanfeihe River, Anhui, China, during the year 2018. The water quality at tributaries were similar, while that at main river was much different. A seasonal ‘’turning-back” pattern was observed in the water quality, which changed significantly from spring to summer but finally changed back in winter. This result was possibly regulated by seasonally-changed dissolved oxygen and water temperature. Linear mixed models showed that the site 2, with the highest loads of pollution, contributed the highest (β = 0.316, P < 0.001) to the main river City Water Quality Index (CWQI) index, but site 5, the geographically nearest site to main river monitoring station, did not show significant effect. In contrast, site 5 but not site 2 contributed the highest (β = 0.379, P < 0.001) to the main river water quality. Therefore, CWQI index was a better index than water quality to identify potential pollution sources with heavy loads of pollutants, despite temporal and spatial disturbances at local scales. These results highlight the role of aeration in water quality controlling of urban rivers, and emphasized the necessity to select proper index to accurately trace the latent pollution sources.
BRCA1 degradation in response to mitochondrial damage in breast cancer cells
Authors: Miyahara Kana , Takano Naoharu , Yamada Yumiko , Kazama Hiromi , Tokuhisa Mayumi , Hino Hirotsugu , Fujita Koji , Barroga Edward , Hiramoto Masaki , Handa Hiroshi , Kuroda Masahiko , Ishikawa Takashi , Miyazawa Keisuke
Published: April 2021

BRCA1 is a well-studied tumor suppressor involved in the homologous repair of DNA damage, whereas PINK1, a mitochondrial serine/threonine kinase, is known to be involved in mitochondrial quality control. Genetic mutations of PINK1 and Parkin cause autosomal recessive early-onset Parkinson’s disease. We found that in breast cancer cells, the mitochondrial targeting reagents, which all induce mitochondrial depolarization along with PINK1 upregulation, induced proteasomal BRCA1 degradation. This BRCA1 degradation was dependent on PINK1, and BRCA1 downregulation upon mitochondrial damage caused DNA double-strand breaks. BRCA1 degradation was mediated through the direct interaction with the E3 ligase Parkin. Strikingly, BRCA1 and PINK1/Parkin expression were inversely correlated in cancerous mammary glands from breast cancer patients. BRCA1 knockdown repressed cancer cell growth, and high BRCA1 expression predicted poor relapse-free survival in breast cancer patients. These observations indicate a novel mechanism by which mitochondrial damage is transmitted to the nucleus, leading to BRCA1 degradation.
MultiVERSE: a multiplex and multiplex-heterogeneous network embedding approach
Authors: Pio-Lopez Léo , Valdeolivas Alberto , Tichit Laurent , Remy Élisabeth , Baudot Anaïs
Published: April 2021

Network embedding approaches are gaining momentum to analyse a large variety of networks. Indeed, these approaches have demonstrated their effectiveness in tasks such as community detection, node classification, and link prediction. However, very few network embedding methods have been specifically designed to handle multiplex networks, i.e. networks composed of different layers sharing the same set of nodes but having different types of edges. Moreover, to our knowledge, existing approaches cannot embed multiple nodes from multiplex-heterogeneous networks, i.e. networks composed of several multiplex networks containing both different types of nodes and edges. In this study, we propose MultiVERSE, an extension of the VERSE framework using Random Walks with Restart on Multiplex (RWR-M) and Multiplex-Heterogeneous (RWR-MH) networks. MultiVERSE is a fast and scalable method to learn node embeddings from multiplex and multiplex-heterogeneous networks. We evaluate MultiVERSE on several biological and social networks and demonstrate its performance. MultiVERSE indeed outperforms most of the other methods in the tasks of link prediction and network reconstruction for multiplex network embedding, and is also efficient in link prediction for multiplex-heterogeneous network embedding. Finally, we apply MultiVERSE to study rare disease-gene associations using link prediction and clustering. MultiVERSE is freely available on github athttps://github.com/Lpiol/MultiVERSE.
Rapid uropathogen identification using surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy active filters
Authors: Dryden Simon D. , Anastasova Salzitsa , Satta Giovanni , Thompson Alex J. , Leff Daniel R. , Darzi Ara
Published: April 2021

Urinary tract infection is one of the most common bacterial infections leading to increased morbidity, mortality and societal costs. Current diagnostics exacerbate this problem due to an inability to provide timely pathogen identification. Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has the potential to overcome these issues by providing immediate bacterial classification. To date, achieving accurate classification has required technically complicated processes to capture pathogens, which has precluded the integration of SERS into rapid diagnostics. This work demonstrates that gold-coated membrane filters capture and aggregate bacteria, separating them from urine, while also providing Raman signal enhancement. An optimal gold coating thickness of 50 nm was demonstrated, and the diagnostic performance of the SERS-active filters was assessed using phantom urine infection samples at clinically relevant concentrations (105 CFU/ml). Infected and uninfected (control) samples were identified with an accuracy of 91.1%. Amongst infected samples only, classification of three bacteria (Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella pneumoniae) was achieved at a rate of 91.6%.
Modelling the potential impact of mask use in schools and society on COVID-19 control in the UK
Authors: Panovska-Griffiths J. , Kerr C. C. , Waites W. , Stuart R. M. , Mistry D. , Foster D. , Klein D. J. , Viner R. M. , Bonell C.
Published: April 2021

As the UK reopened after the first wave of the COVID-19 epidemic, crucial questions emerged around the role for ongoing interventions, including test-trace-isolate (TTI) strategies and mandatory masks. Here we assess the importance of masks in secondary schools by evaluating their impact over September 1–October 23, 2020. We show that, assuming TTI levels from August 2020 and no fundamental changes in the virus’s transmissibility, adoption of masks in secondary schools would have reduced the predicted size of a second wave, but preventing it would have required 68% or 46% of those with symptoms to seek testing (assuming masks’ effective coverage 15% or 30% respectively). With masks in community settings but not secondary schools, the required testing rates increase to 76% and 57%.
A novel method for the storage and transport of biological samples of therapeutic proteins prior to the detection of analytes using ELISA
Authors: Wang Lei , Liu Lixiong , Hong Xiaoping , Liu Dongzhou , Cheng Zeneng
Published: April 2021

Therapeutic proteins have exhibited promising clinical applications in the diagnosis and treatment of some diseases. Prior to the detection of analytes using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, biological samples of therapeutic proteins are conventionally frozen at temperatures ranging from − 20 to − 80 °C to increase the stability of analytes. However, therapeutic proteins destabilization and aggregation may occur during the frozen storage or the freeze-thawing step. In this work, an effective method was proposed to freeze-dry therapeutic protein samples to allow subsequent storage or transport of samples without freezing them. This new method was validated with quality control samples of adalimumab and etanercept, and it was also used in the bioanalysis of adalimumab and etanercept in pharmacokinetic (PK) studies. Adalimumab and etanercept were stable for 14 days at 4 °C after being prepared and stored using the new method, with detection that was accurate and repeatable. Studies of adalimumab and etanercept in animals and humans showed that the PK parameters of the analytes stored with the new method were consistent with those of analytes stored using the conventional method. This effective method will be attractive for facilitating the storage and transport of plasma samples containing therapeutic proteins.
Progesterone receptor membrane component 1 reduces cardiac steatosis and lipotoxicity via activation of fatty acid oxidation and mitochondrial respiration
Authors: Lee Sang R. , Heo Jun H. , Jo Seong Lae , Kim Globinna , Kim Su Jung , Yoo Hyun Ju , Lee Kyu-Pil , Kwun Hyo-Jung , Shin Hyun-Jin , Baek In-Jeoung , Hong Eui-Ju
Published: April 2021

Obesity is implicated in cardiovascular disease and heart failure. When fatty acids are transported to and not adequately oxidized in cardiac cells, they accumulate, causing lipotoxicity in the heart. Since hepatic progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (Pgrmc1) suppressed de novo lipogenesis in a previous study, it was questioned whether cardiac Pgrmc1 protects against lipotoxicity. Hence, we focused on the role of cardiac Pgrmc1 in basal (Resting), glucose-dominant (Refed) and lipid-dominant high-fat diet (HFD) conditions. Pgrmc1 KO mice showed high FFA levels and low glucose levels compared to wild-type (WT) mice. Pgrmc1 KO mice presented low number of mitochondrial DNA copies in heart, and it was concomitantly observed with low expression of TCA cycle genes and oxidative phosphorylation genes. Pgrmc1 absence in heart presented low fatty acid oxidation activity in all conditions, but the production of acetyl-CoA and ATP was in pronounced suppression only in HFD condition. Furthermore, HFD Pgrmc1 KO mice resulted in high cardiac fatty acyl-CoA levels and TG level. Accordingly, HFD Pgrmc1 KO mice were prone to cardiac lipotoxicity, featuring high levels in markers of inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and heart failure. In vitro study, it was also confirmed that Pgrmc1 enhances rates of mitochondrial respiration and fatty acid oxidation. This study is clinically important because mitochondrial defects in Pgrmc1 KO mice hearts represent the late phase of cardiac failure.
Feasibility of CT-derived myocardial strain measurement in patients with advanced cardiac valve disease
Authors: Vach Marius , Vogelhuber Johanna , Weber Marcel , Sprinkart Alois M. , Pieper Claus C. , Block Wolfgang , Kuetting Daniel , Attenberger Ulrike I. , Luetkens Julian A.
Published: April 2021

To explore the feasibility of CT-derived myocardial strain measurement in patients with advanced cardiac valve disease and to compare it to strain measurements derived from transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). 43 consecutive patients with advanced cardiac valve disease and clinically indicated retrospectively gated cardiac CTs were retrospectively analyzed. The longitudinal, circumferential as well as radial systolic strain were determined in all patients utilizing a commercially available CT strain software. In 36/43 (84%) patients, CT-derived longitudinal strain was compared to speckle-tracking TTE. Pearson’s correlation coefficients as well as Bland–Altman analysis were used to compare the CT-derived strain measurements to TTE. The intra- and inter-reader-reliability of the CT-derived strain measurements were assessed by intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs). Strain measurements were feasible in all patients. CT-derived global longitudinal strain (GLS) correlated moderately with TTE-derived GLS (r = 0.6, p < 0.001). A moderate correlation between CT-derived GLS and CT-derived left ventricular ejection fraction was found (LVEF, r = − 0.66, p = 0.036). Bland–Altman analysis showed a systematic underestimation of myocardial strain by cardiac CT compared to TTE (mean difference: − 5.8%, 95% limit of agreement between − 13.3 and 1.8%). Strain measurements showed an excellent intra- and inter-reader-reliability with an intra-reader ICC of 1.0 and an inter-reader ICC of 0.99 for GLS measurements. CT-derived myocardial strain measurements are feasible in patients with advanced cardiac valve disease. They are highly reproducible and correlate with established parameters of strain measurements. Our results encourage the implementation of CT-derived strain measurement into clinical routine.
Biomechanical assessment of different fixation methods in mandibular high sagittal oblique osteotomy using a three-dimensional finite element analysis model
Authors: Savoldelli Charles , Ehrmann Elodie , Tillier Yannick
Published: April 2021

With modern-day technical advances, high sagittal oblique osteotomy (HSOO) of the mandible was recently described as an alternative to bilateral sagittal split osteotomy for the correction of mandibular skeletal deformities. However, neither in vitro nor numerical biomechanical assessments have evaluated the performance of fixation methods in HSOO. The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical characteristics and stress distribution in bone and osteosynthesis fixations when using different designs and placing configurations, in order to determine a favourable plating method. We established two finite element models of HSOO with advancement (T1) and set-back (T2) movements of the mandible. Six different configurations of fixation of the ramus, progressively loaded by a constant force, were assessed for each model. The von Mises stress distribution in fixations and in bone, and bony segment displacement, were analysed. The lowest mechanical stresses and minimal gradient of displacement between the proximal and distal bony segments were detected in the combined one-third anterior- and posterior-positioned double mini-plate T1 and T2 models. This suggests that the appropriate method to correct mandibular deformities in HSOO surgery is with use of double mini-plates positioned in the anterior one-third and posterior one-third between the bony segments of the ramus.
Label-free proteomic analysis revealed the mechanisms of protein oxidation induced by hydroxyl radicals in whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) muscle
Authors: Lin Hui-min , Qi Xue-er , Shui Shan-shan , Benjakul Soottawat , Aubourg Santiago P. , Zhang Bin
Published: April 2021

The oxidative effects of hydroxyl radicals derived from a FeCl3/ascorbic acid/H2O2 system on the stability of muscle proteins in peeled shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) were investigated.
The synthesis of alternating donor–acceptor polymers based on pyrene-4,5,9,10-tetraone and thiophene derivatives, their composites with carbon, and their lithium storage performances as anode materials
Authors: Guo Xin , Yuan Qing , Li Chunxia , Du Hongmei , Zhao Jinsheng , Liu Lixia , Li Yunwu , Xie Yu , Vaidya Vijay
Published: April 2021

The preparation procedure and cycling performance of the two polymer composites.
Tin(iv) chloride mediated (3 + 2) annulation of trans-2-aroyl-3-styrylcyclopropane-1,1-dicarboxylates with nitriles: diastereoselective access to 5-vinyl-1-pyrroline derivatives
Authors: Thangamani Murugesan , Thangamalar Subaramaniam , Srinivasan Kannupal
Published: April 2021

A (3 + 2) annulation of trans-2-aroyl-3-styrylcyclopropane-1,1-dicarboxylates with nitriles is reported for the diastereoselective synthesis of 5-vinyl-1-pyrroline derivatives in 60–88% yields.
Preparation of graphene oxide liquid crystals with long-range highly-ordered flakes using a coat-hanger die
Authors: Wu Qixin , Guo Hao , Hua Tianxiang , Zhao Lilan , Li Lingying , Qian Bo
Published: April 2021

Graphene oxide liquid crystals with long-range highly ordered GO flakes were successfully prepared by a designed coat-hanger die.
The effect of enzyme loading, alcohol/acid ratio and temperature on the enzymatic esterification of levulinic acid with methanol for methyl levulinate production: a kinetic study
Authors: Song Miaojia , Di Xiaohui , Zhang Yu , Sun Yongming , Wang Zhongming , Yuan Zhenhong , Guo Ying
Published: April 2021

Based on reaction reversibility and the law of mass action, a mathematical model was developed. By the developed model, the effect of enzyme loading, molar alcohol/acid ratio, and temperature on methyl levulinate yield was kinetically analyzed.
Combined wet milling and heat treatment in water vapor for producing amorphous to crystalline ultrafine Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 solid electrolyte particles
Authors: Kozawa Takahiro
Published: April 2021

The preparation of ultrafine particles through combined wet planetary ball milling and heat treatment in water vapor contributes to the fabrication of extensive composite electrodes with solid electrolytes for bulk-type all-solid-state batteries.
Electropalatographic Therapy and Speech Production for Children With Down Syndrome
Authors: Page Christen G. , Johnson Katelynn
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Children with Down syndrome (DS) demonstrate speech sound disorders, which impact speech intelligibility in academic and social settings across the life span. The purpose of this technical report is to determine the effects of electropalatographic (EPG) therapy on speech productions for children with DS receiving school-based speech-language therapy services. EPG is a form of visual feedback that displays timing and location of the tongue's contact with the palate during productions of individual phonemes.

Method

Authors completed a comprehensive literature search to locate articles that investigated the treatment effects of EPG for children with DS. Using the PICO (population, intervention, control, and outcomes) format, we sought in the research to answer “Do children 3–18 years of age with Down syndrome (P), who receive EPG therapy (I) compared to same-age peers with Down syndrome who do not receive EPG therapy (C) show improvement on speech sound production (O)?”

Results

Three studies met the inclusion criteria and were critically appraised. Two studies were single-subject designs, and one study was a randomized controlled study. Results revealed that EPG therapy improved speech sound production of target phonemes (/s/, /ʃ/, /k/, and /g/) with no transfer to speech intelligibility.

Conclusions

The results may further the understanding of EPG therapy as a treatment approach, particularly in older individuals with DS receiving school-based speech-language therapy services. Prior to adopting EPG as a treatment approach, clinicians should consider treatment intensity and students' cognitive abilities. Additional research is needed on the long-term effects and generalization of EPG therapy.
A deep analysis on high‐resolution dermoscopic image classification
Authors: Pollastri Federico , Parreño Mario , Maroñas Juan , Bolelli Federico , Paredes Roberto , Ramos Daniel , Grana Costantino
Published: April 2021

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been broadly employed in dermoscopic image analysis, mainly as a result of the large amount of data gathered by the International Skin Imaging Collaboration (ISIC). As in many other medical imaging domains, state‐of‐the‐art methods take advantage of architectures developed for other tasks, frequently assuming full transferability between enormous sets of natural images (e.g. ImageNet) and dermoscopic images, which is not always the case. A comprehensive analysis on the effectiveness of state‐of‐the‐art deep learning techniques when applied to dermoscopic image analysis is provided. To achieve this goal, the authors consider several CNNs architectures and analyse how their performance is affected by the size of the network, image resolution, data augmentation process, amount of available data, and model calibration. Moreover, taking advantage of the analysis performed, a novel ensemble method to further increase the classification accuracy is designed. The proposed solution achieved the third best result in the 2019 official ISIC challenge, with an accuracy of 0.593.
On aligning cascaded elements with the polarisation of the incident circularly polarised wave
Authors: Roy Jasmin E.
Published: April 2021

Given that the discrimination between the two senses of circular polarisation (CP) has been reported for cascades of progressively rotated wire‐grids, the author investigates whether or not the progressive rotation of the elements of a cascade would be the fundamental reason for the cascade to discriminate between the two senses of CP. The author also investigates whether or not the particular progressive rotation that consists in aligning each element of the cascade with the polarisation of a normally incident CP plane wave would necessarily provide the maximum discrimination between the two senses of CP. It is shown that neither progressive rotation nor alignment are fundamental or optimal for CP discrimination. CP discrimination is shown to be achieved even when the physical geometry of the CP antenna does not match the screw that is traced in space by the CP wave which is meant to be received/transmitted by the CP antenna. This observation is important to avoid misunderstanding the mechanism that underlies the phenomenon of CP discrimination.
Low profile wideband circular patch antenna surrounded by mushroom‐type structure
Authors: Cao Yufan , Zhang Baoling , Wu Tao , Li Sen , Li Guanlin
Published: April 2021

A novel low profile wideband circular patch antenna is proposed for millimetre‐wave applications. Seven mushroom units are uniformly placed along with the edge of the circular driven patch. Two resonant modes, TM mode and quasi‐TM mode, are generated by the driven patch and mushroom‐type structure, respectively. These two modes will move in proximity to each other by optimising the size and location of mushroom‐type structure, resulting in wideband performance. Compared with our previous work, the proposed antenna owns the advantage of low profile and rotational symmetric structure. Therefore, the radiation performance is improved. Measured results show that the impedance bandwidth of 26.4% from 12.2 to 15.9 GHz is obtained with a low profile less than 0.047 .
Structuring meat systems using natural biopolymers
Authors: Baranov Boris , Sokolov Aleksandr , Boltenko Yuri
Published: April 2021

The features of the structure and properties of raw materials, which are a source of biopolymers of natural origin are presented. The main focus of the theoretical part is paid to the study of the process of structuring of biopolymers (proteins and polysaccharides). Practical approbation was carried out on the example of meat-containing meat and meat chopped products and semi-finished products.
Study on the properties of modified starch and its feasibility in crystal dumpling skins
Authors: Jingwen Wang , Melnyk Oksana , Ihnatieva Olha
Published: April 2021

Four kinds of modified starches that are expected to improve the quality of crystal dumpling skins were selected, namely Potato acetate starch, Potato hydroxypropyl starch, Octenyl succinate starch sodium, Acetate cassava starch. Through the determination of the physical indicators of the above four modified starches, and then explore the feasibility of applying them to crystal dumpling skins to improve their quality. Studies have found that the light transmittance of the four modified starches is higher than that of the original crystal dumpling mixed starch, which verifies the feasibility of applying these four modified starches to the crystal dumpling skin to improve its transparency and other characteristics. At the same time, it provides a certain reference value for related research on improving the characteristics of crystal dumpling skin.
Comparative analysis and antimicrobial action of some essential oils from plants
Authors: Mironescu Monica , Georgescu Cecilia
Published: April 2021

In this research, essential oils (EOs) were extracted through steaming from aerial parts of three plants: basil (Ocinum basilicum L.), peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) and oregano (Origanum vulgare L.) form Sibiu County, Romania. The GC-MS analysis indicated that eugenol and apiol were the major compounds in the basil EO. Timol, ɣ-terpinene, and p-cymene were the major compounds in the volatile oil extracted from oregano and menthol and methone the main components in the peppermint EO. In the first 48 h of analysis, basil EO inhibition action was the highest against Salmonella anatum (48%), followed by Aspergillus niger (26%), Bacillus cereus (21%) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (15%); this action was maintained for 120 h for all samples. In the first 48 h, the peppermint EO showed the highest inhibition rate (50%) on B. cereus, followed by A. niger (45%), S. cerevisiae (20%) and no action against Salmonella; this action varied after 72h and 120 h by slightly increasing in case of B. cereus, strongly decreasing in case of A. niger and remaining constant in case of S. cerevisiae. Oregano EO showed a very small antimicrobial action, only on S. anatum (12%) and this action was maintained for 120 h.
Research of rheological properties of fermented milk ice cream with high content of exopolysaccharides
Authors: Pozhidaeva Ekaterina , Golubeva Lyubov , Sadchenko Anton , Dymovskih Yana
Published: April 2021

As a result of scientific and technological research, the ingredient composition and the feasibility of using complex bacterial starter cultures as part of fermented milk ice cream have been substantiated. The objects of the study were samples of mixtures for the production of fermented milk ice cream were considered, which included dairy and non-dairy components, including complex bacterial starter cultures: YF-L812 (Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus) - control sample and YO-PROX 777 (Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp.bulgaricus), as well as pectin stabilizers “Grindsted Pektin LC 710” and “Cremodan SE 334” with a concentration of 0.1-0.7%. It was found that a prototype sample with starter culture YO-PROX 777 has increased values of dynamic viscosity compared with the control sample with similar stabilizers and their identical concentrations, which is evidence of the accumulation of exopolysaccharides in the fermented fermented milk mixture. A prototype of fermented milk ice cream has better shape stability during temperature control, the thawing rate is reduced by 1.6 times compared to the control. The degree of overrun of the prototype fermented milk ice cream is 37.6%, which is 1.2 times higher compared to the control.
Biochemical composition of scab-immune apple fruits varieties (Malus domestica B.) as a valuable component of healthy dietary
Authors: Saveleva Natalia , Borzykh Nadezhda , Chivilev Vladislav , Yushkov Andrey , Zemisov Aleksander , Cherenkova Tatiana
Published: April 2021

The article presents an analysis of the biochemical composition of apple varieties (Malus domestica B.) with immunity to scab. Domestic and foreign apple varieties are used as research objects. Variability in fruits in the content of ascorbic acid (AA), soluble solids (SDS), P-active compounds, and titratable acids was noted. The high content of AA is noted in Uspenskoe, Skala, Bylina, Flagman, Yubilyar apple varieties. Long-term studies have revealed intervarietal differences in biochemical composition and variation of this trait over the years in apples. Varieties with valuable biochemical composition and immunity to scab can be used in organic food production, as well as in further breeding work to improve the quality of fruits.
Study of the effect of chia seeds (Salvia Hispanica L.) on structural-mechanical characteristics of a cream-blown paste for candies
Authors: Shydakova-Kameniuka Olena , Samokhvalova Olga , Shkliaiev Oleksii , Grevtseva Nataliya
Published: April 2021

The influence of whole and crushed chia seeds on the characteristics of unstructured and structured cream-blown candy paste made with different gelling agents (agar, pectin and modified starch) was investigated. It was found that when adding an additive, the viscosity of unstructured candy pastes changes insignificantly. The adhesion of unstructured cream-blown candy pastes at the maximum dosage of chia seeds increases by 7.2... 8.5%, depending on the type used by the gelling agents. Modern equipment usually has an anti-adhesive coating. Therefore, a slight increase in the adhesion index will not affect the performance of the technological process. It is noted that the Introduction of chia seeds causes an increase in the density and strength of the structured candy pastes. According to the maximum investigated dosage of the additive, they do not meet the requirements of regulatory documents in terms of density and have unfavorable organoleptic characteristics. To ensure the high quality of cream-blown candy pastes, it is recommended to introduce whole chia seeds in an amount of 50% of the mass of dry egg albumin, and chopped seeds in an amount of 40% of the fat mass with a corresponding decrease in their prescription content.
Optimal conditions of acid modification of Bentonite-Like Clay
Authors: Gorbunova Natalya , Vezentsev Aleksandr
Published: April 2021

The results of mathematical modeling of the bentonite-like clay’s process of modifying various concentrations sulfuric acid depending on time the modification process is given in the presented article. As a result, the optimal parameters of this process were determined by the experimental and calculation method.
SWOT analysis as a strategic tool for developing the quality management system of an educational organization
Authors: Spichak Irina , Stenyushkina Svetlana , Polevoy Igor , Nazarova Anastasia , Kucheryavenko Svetlana
Published: April 2021

The article discusses the need to implement effective risk management tools in the quality management system of an educational organization, due to the increasing requirements of the external environment, increasing competition, and the globalization of the educational space. The main focus is on SWOT analysis as one of the reliable and effective tools for qualitative analysis of the organization’s strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats. The article highlights the features of using SWOT analysis in the process of risk management of an educational organization.
Condition of entomophilic fauna on Hyssopus officinalis L. crops depending on ecotope conditions
Authors: Gorbacheva Anzhelika , Dumacheva Elena , Vorobyova Oksana , Korolkova Svetlana , Filatov Sergei , Chernyavsky Vladimir , Koryakov Daniil
Published: April 2021

Species diversity and number of potential pollinator species on H. officinalis seed crops in various ecotopes of farm fields were studied under the influence of “Bi-58 new” insecticide treatment and without preliminary treatment. The presence of 16 insect species belonging to four families of the genus Hymenoptera (Megachilida, Apidae, Halictidae and Vespidae), two families of the Diptera row (Syrphidae and Stratiomyidae) and one family of the genus Lepidoptera (Lycaenalidae) has been identified on the seed crops of H. officinalis. The insecticidal treatment in general did not significantly affect the total number of pollinators, but changed the species composition of pollinators and their number on the field area. As much as possible, the decrease in the prevalence and number of the Megachilida species was affected.
Comparative analysis of habitus and behavioral responses in birds in desynchronosis conditions
Authors: Pogrebnyak Tatyana , Khorolskaya Elena , Vorobyova Oksana , Sagalaeva Irina
Published: April 2021

The dynamics of behavioral reactions is studied. Habit, live weight of roosters in artificially created models of desynchronosis: acute, due to three-day inversion of the light regime, and chronic, due to crowding increased placing density. An assessment of the behavior, habitus, feed intake, feather cover and molting conditions in combination with the glycemia level, which together provide an objective assessment of the effect of desynchronosis on the functional state of birds and their adaptation to acute and chronic stress.
Antioxidant potential, biochemical activity and hypoglycemic effects of R. obtusifolius L. seed extracts used in Armenian traditional medicine
Authors: Ginovyan Mikayel , Sahakyan Naira , Aghajanyan Anush , Trchounian Armen
Published: April 2021

The diversity of plants in Armenia is due to the singularity of natural environment. However, biochemical activity of these plants has not been studied well. The goal was to investigate biological activities as well as antihyperglycemic properties of Rumex obtusifolius L. in rabbits with hyperglycemia. According to obtained data, R. obtusifolius extracts possessed high antioxidant activity in chemical-based tests. GS/MS analysis of its methanol extracts allowed identification of several compounds, which could have high contribution on biological activities. The sub-cytotoxic concentration of investigated extract was 10 mgmL-1on Murine microglial BV-2 WT cell lines. Oral administration of ethanol extract showed significant effect on hyperglycemia, reducing fasting glucose levels (57.3%, p<0.05) and improving glucose tolerance. These findings suggest that R. obtusifolius extracts could be source of new biologically active compounds and recommended for treatment of diabetes mellitus.
The effect of dissolved oxygen on microgreen productivity
Authors: Grishin Alexander , Grishin Andrey , Semenova Natalia , Grishin Vladimir , Knyazeva Inna , Dorochov Alexey
Published: April 2021

The effect of oxygen dissolved in water was researched (1.3 mg/l – without saturation, 6.1 mg/l – air saturation, 14.7 mg/l – oxygen saturation) on the microgreen productivity of “Ivolga” variety wheat of and ‘Aida’ variety lentils. It was found that the enrichment of water for seed germination with oxygen stimulates the speedy germination and receipt of wheat and lentils sprouts 1 day faster than in the variant without saturation. An increase in oxygen concentration contributes to the rapid root system growth of the researched cultures, stimulates the formation of 2 order roots, accelerates the development of the overhead plant parts without dry weight loss. On the 7th day of cultivation, the wet weight of wheat increased by 21% in the variant with air saturation and 56% with oxygen saturation, wet weight of lentils – by 57% and 77%, respectively. Both a deficiency and an excess of oxygen in water can adversely affect the content of basic pigments. Therefore, it is necessary to select the species composition of cultures for composing multicomponent mixtures, to obtain higher microgreen quality when grown on oxygen-rich solutions.
The study of the consequences of preserving berry crops in vitro on the processes of subsequent clonal micropropagation
Authors: Knyazeva Inna
Published: April 2021

As a result of studies, it was found that collection samples of berry crops in vitro can be maintained in viable condition on specially selected nutrient media for 12 months. The effect of mannitol concentration (0.45, 0.75 and 1.05%; sucrose control -3%) on the regenerative potential of microprobe of the studied berry crop varieties was estimated. When studying the effect of the reproduction cycle on the morphogenesis of meristemic cultures, it was found that the dynamics of changes in shoot length, number of leaves and shoots depended on the concentration of the active substance. In general, the majority of berry crops that were viable after storage of explants retained the ability to grow again, in many cases reaching or exceeding the control level.
Effect of liquid organic fertilizer “Efflurost” on economically valuable indicators of vegetable crops
Authors: Kotsareva Nadejda , Tolmachev Petr , Bredihin Vladimir , Ohrimchuk Dmitrii
Published: April 2021

The results of determining the application dose of liquid organic fertilizer “Efflurost” and its effect on economically valuable indicators of sweet pepper and eggplant, agrochemical parameters of the soil are presented. The positive effect of liquid organic fertilizer “Efflurost” on economically valuable indicators of vegetable crops (sweet pepper and eggplant) and on the soil agrochemical parameters has been established. The optimal application rates of liquid organic fertilizer “Efflurost” for sweet pepper is 1:10 dilution and 1: 5 for eggplant, which bring to yield enhancement of marketable products by 10.6 t / ha and 27.2 t / ha respectively. Soil acidity decreasing by 0.1-0.4 units, the number of microorganisms involved in the mineralization of humic substances and increasing the number of ammonifying microorganisms were noted.
Analyzing the efficiency of bank branchesvianovel weighted stochastic imprecise data envelopment analysis
Authors: Aydin Nezir , Yurdakul Gökhan
Published: April 2021

As of 21st century, the terms of efficiency and productivity have become notions which dwells on both business and academic world more frequently compared to past. It is known that it is hard to increase the efficiency and productivity of both production and service systems. In this study, the efficiency analysis of the branches of a bank was conducted. Furthermore, a Weighted Stochastic Imprecise Data Envelopment Analysis (WSIDEA), which is a new approach developed based on Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), was proposed. Efficiency levels and results of decision-making units were examined according to the proposed new method. Additionally, six different DEA model results are obtained. The results of the six different DEA model and the proposed “WSIDEA” model were compared in terms of efficiency level of decision-making units, and the differences between them were examined.

Sensitivity of the inefficient units were also examined. On the other hand, unrealistic efficiency levels created by traditional methods for branches were also analyzed. Apart from all these sensitivity analyses, the sensitivity of the data set used in the analysis is scrutinized.