bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the potential for deep learning and computer vision to identify bumble bee species from images
Authors: Spiesman Brian J. , Gratton Claudio , Hatfield Richard G. , Hsu William H. , Jepsen Sarina , McCornack Brian , Patel Krushi , Wang Guanghui
Published: April 2021

Pollinators are undergoing a global decline. Although vital to pollinator conservation and ecological research, species-level identification is expensive, time consuming, and requires specialized taxonomic training. However, deep learning and computer vision are providing ways to open this methodological bottleneck through automated identification from images. Focusing on bumble bees, we compare four convolutional neural network classification models to evaluate prediction speed, accuracy, and the potential of this technology for automated bee identification. We gathered over 89,000 images of bumble bees, representing 36 species in North America, to train the ResNet, Wide ResNet, InceptionV3, and MnasNet models. Among these models, InceptionV3 presented a good balance of accuracy (91.6%) and average speed (3.34 ms). Species-level error rates were generally smaller for species represented by more training images. However, error rates also depended on the level of morphological variability among individuals within a species and similarity to other species. Continued development of this technology for automatic species identification and monitoring has the potential to be transformative for the fields of ecology and conservation. To this end, we present BeeMachine, a web application that allows anyone to use our classification model to identify bumble bees in their own images.
Interactions of genetic variants and prenatal stress in relation to the risk for recurrent respiratory infections in children
Authors: Korhonen Laura S. , Lukkarinen Minna , Kantojärvi Katri , Räty Panu , Karlsson Hasse , Paunio Tiina , Peltola Ville , Karlsson Linnea
Published: April 2021

Genetic variants may predispose children to recurrent respiratory infections (RRIs) but studies on genotype-environment interaction are rare. We hypothesized that the risk for RRIs is elevated in children with innate immune gene variants, and that prenatal exposure to maternal psychological distress further increases the risk. In a birth cohort, children with RRIs (n = 96) were identified by the age of 24 months and compared with the remaining cohort children (n = 894). The risk for RRIs in children with preselected genetic variants and the interaction between maternal distress during pregnancy and child genotype were assessed with logistic regression. TheIL6minor allele G was associated with elevated risk for RRIs (OR 1.55; 95% CI 1.14–2.12). Overall, there was no interaction between maternal psychological distress and child genotype. Exploratory analyses showed that, the association between the variant type ofIL6and the risk for RRIs was dependent on prenatal exposure to maternal psychological distress in males (OR 1.96; 95% CI 1.04–3.67). Our study didn’t find genotype-environment interaction between prenatal maternal distress and child genotype. Exploratory analyses suggest sex differences in gene-environment interaction related to susceptibility to RRIs.
Effect of PM2.5 pollution on perinatal mortality in China
Authors: Li Guangqin , Li Lingyu , Liu Dan , Qin Jiahong , Zhu Hongjun
Published: April 2021

Using ArcGIS to analyze satellite derived PM2.5estimates, this paper obtains the average concentration and maximum concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in China's 31 provinces from 2002 to 2015. We adopt fixed effects model and spatial Durbin model to investigate the association between PM2.5and perinatal mortality rates. The results indicate that PM2.5has a significantly positive association with perinatal mortality rates. A 1% increase of log-transformed average concentration and maximum concentrations of PM2.5is associated with 1.76‰ and 2.31‰ increase of perinatal mortality rates, respectively. In spatial econometrics analysis, we find PM2.5has significant spatial autocorrelation characteristics. The concentrations of log-transformed average and maximum PM2.5increase 1% is associated with a 2.49% increase in a 2.49‰ and 2.19‰ increase of perinatal mortality rates, respectively. The potential mechanism is that air pollution has an impact on infant weight to impact perinatal mortality rates.
Enhanced degradation of anthraquinone dyes by microbial monoculture and developed consortium through the production of specific enzymes
Authors: Mohanty Swati Sambita , Kumar Arvind
Published: April 2021

The current study investigates the decolorization of Indanthrene Blue RS dye and the optimization of process parameters needed for effective decolorization by the bacterial consortium. The pure culture of strain TS8, PMS, and NCH has been isolated from the textile wastewater sample collected from local textile processing units outlet and dye contaminated soil from Odisha, India. A bacterial consortium-BP of Bacillus flexus TS8 (BF), Proteus mirabilis PMS (PM), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa NCH (PA) were developed. The physicochemical parameters were optimized to attain maximum decolorization efficacy. Degradation of Indanthrene Blue RS and the formation of metabolites were confirmed through UV–vis spectroscopy, FT-IR, and GC–MS analysis. The developed consortium-BP showed an enhanced decolorization of Indanthrene Blue RS dye with an Average decolorization rate of 11,088 µg h−1 within 9 h compared to the individual strains under aerobic conditions. The supplementation of agricultural residual wastes showed increased decolorization efficiency of consortium-BP. Higher reduction in TOC and COD removal (≥ 80%) determined the mineralization of Indanthrene Blue RS by consortium-BP. Significant induction of various oxidoreductive enzymes in consortium-BP compared to that of Individual strains indicates their involvement in the overall decolorization and degradation process, with the higher protein concentration in the intracellular enzymes. Studies on the phytotoxicity effect revealed the non-toxic nature of the degraded products formed on mineralization of Indanthrene Blue RS by consortium-BP. This study represents a new approach for enhanced biodegradation using consortium-BP in treating textile wastewaters containing anthraquinone dyes.
Establishing an immunocompromised porcine model of human cancer for novel therapy development with pancreatic adenocarcinoma and irreversible electroporation
Authors: Hendricks-Wenger Alissa , Aycock Kenneth N. , Nagai-Singer Margaret A. , Coutermarsh-Ott Sheryl , Lorenzo Melvin F. , Gannon Jessica , Uh Kyungjun , Farrell Kayla , Beitel-White Natalie , Brock Rebecca M. , Simon Alexander , Morrison Holly A. , Tuohy Joanne , Clark-Deener Sherrie , Vlaisavljevich Eli , Davalos Rafael V. , Lee Kiho , Allen Irving C.
Published: April 2021

New therapies to treat pancreatic cancer are direly needed. However, efficacious interventions lack a strong preclinical model that can recapitulate patients’ anatomy and physiology. Likewise, the availability of human primary malignant tissue for ex vivo studies is limited. These are significant limitations in the biomedical device field. We have developed RAG2/IL2RG deficient pigs using CRISPR/Cas9 as a large animal model with the novel application of cancer xenograft studies of human pancreatic adenocarcinoma. In this proof-of-concept study, these pigs were successfully generated using on-demand genetic modifications in embryos, circumventing the need for breeding and husbandry. Human Panc01 cells injected subcutaneously into the ears of RAG2/IL2RG deficient pigs demonstrated 100% engraftment with growth rates similar to those typically observed in mouse models. Histopathology revealed no immune cell infiltration and tumor morphology was highly consistent with the mouse models. The electrical properties and response to irreversible electroporation of the tumor tissue were found to be similar to excised human pancreatic cancer tumors. The ample tumor tissue produced enabled improved accuracy and modeling of the electrical properties of tumor tissue. Together, this suggests that this model will be useful and capable of bridging the gap of translating therapies from the bench to clinical application.
Activation of matrix metalloproteinases and FoxO3a in HaCaT keratinocytes by radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure
Authors: Kim Ju Hwan , Kang Dong-Jun , Bae Jun-Sang , Lee Jai Hyuen , Jeon Sangbong , Choi Hyung-Do , Kim Nam , Kim Hyung-Gun , Kim Hak Rim
Published: April 2021

As the skin is the largest body organ and critically serves as a barrier, it is frequently exposed and could be physiologically affected by radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure. In this study, we found that 1760 MHz RF-EMF (4.0 W/kg specific absorption rate for 2 h/day during 4 days) exposure could induce intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in HaCaT human keratinocytes using 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescin diacetate fluorescent probe analysis. However, cell growth and viability were unaffected by RF-EMF exposure. Since oxidative stress in the skin greatly influences the skin-aging process, we analyzed the skin senescence-related factors activated by ROS generation. Matrix metalloproteinases 1, 3, and 7 (MMP1, MMP3, and MMP7), the main skin wrinkle-related proteins, were significantly increased in HaCaT cells after RF-EMF exposure. Additionally, the gelatinolytic activities of secreted MMP2 and MMP9 were also increased by RF-EMF exposure. FoxO3a (Ser318/321) and ERK1/2 (Thr 202/Tyr 204) phosphorylation levels were significantly increased by RF-EMF exposure. However, Bcl2 and Bax expression levels were not significantly changed, indicating that the apoptotic pathway was not activated in keratinocytes following RF-EMF exposure. In summary, our findings show that exposure to 1760 MHz RF-EMF induces ROS generation, leading to MMP activation and FoxO3a and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. These data suggest that RF-EMF exposure induces cellular senescence of skin cells through ROS induction in HaCaT human keratinocytes.
A meta-analysis comparing short-term weight and cardiometabolic changes between olanzapine/samidorphan and olanzapine
Authors: Srisurapanont Manit , Suttajit Sirijit , Likhitsathian Surinporn , Maneeton Benchalak , Maneeton Narong
Published: April 2021

This study compared weight and cardiometabolic changes after short-term treatment of olanzapine/samidorphan and olanzapine. Eligible criteria for an included trial were ≤ 24 weeks, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared olanzapine/samidorphan and olanzapine treatments in patients/healthy volunteers and reported weight or cardiometabolic outcomes. Three databases were searched on October 31, 2020. Primary outcomes included weight changes and all-cause dropout rates. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) and risk ratios (RRs) were computed and pooled using a random-effect model. This meta-analysis included four RCTs (n = 1195). The heterogeneous data revealed that weight changes were not significantly different between olanzapine/samidorphan and olanzapine groups (4 RCTs, SDM = − 0.19, 95% CI − 0.45 to 0.07, I2 = 75%). The whole-sample, pooled RR of all-cause dropout rates (4 RCTs, RR = 1.02, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.23, I2 = 0%) was not significant different between olanzapine/samidorphan and olanzapine groups. A lower percentage of males and a lower initial body mass index were associated with the greater effect of samidorphan in preventing olanzapine-induced weight gain. Current evidence is insufficient to support the use of samidorphan to prevent olanzapine-induced weight gain and olanzapine-induced cardiometabolic abnormalities. Samidorphan is well accepted by olanzapine-treated patients.
Characteristics of fixation patterns and their relationship with visual function of patients with idiopathic macular holes after vitrectomy
Authors: Liu Yuyan , Wang Ying , Dong Yi , Liang Dongqing , Xie Shiyong , Xiao Bo , Chu Yanhua , Han Quanhong
Published: April 2021

To analyze the relationships between the fixation location and the visual function of idiopathic macular hole (IMH) patients with macular integrity assessment (MAIA) examination preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. This was a retrospective case analysis. Forty-three eyes of 43 patients diagnosed with IMH were included in this study. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) assessments, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and MAIA examinations were performed before surgery and 1 week, 1 month and 3 months after surgery. The relationships between MAIA parameters and visual acuity were assessed by correlation analysis. Grouping by fixation location with the foveola (2°) as the centre, the locations could be divided into five groups, including foveolar, temporal, nasal, inferior and superior fixation. The mean macular sensitivity (MMS) of the macular area was correlated with the BCVA in the IMH patients before and 3 months after surgery (before surgery P = 0.00, after surgery P = 0.00). The MMS could be used as a good indicator for evaluating visual function in IMH patients. There was a significant difference in fixation location before and after the operation (P = 0.01). The preoperative fixation location of IMH patients was mainly in the superior area, while postoperatively moved to the foveola and nasal areas. Paying attention to the changes of fixation locations in IMH patients may provide new clues for further improving postoperative visual function.
Optical analysis of the behavior of sealants under mechanical, thermal and chemical stress
Authors: Erbe Christina , Deckers Florian , Schmidtmann Irene , Heider Julia , Wehrbein Heinrich
Published: April 2021

Regarding their resistance five sealants were tested in vitro after experiencing mechanical, thermal and chemical stress. Included for testing were two fluoride varnishes: Fluor Protector [FP] (Ivoclar Vivadent) and Protecto CaF2 Nano One-Step Seal [PN] (BonaDent) and three fluoride-composite filled sealants (with acid etch technique): Clinpro XT Varnish [CP] (3 M Espe), Pro Seal [PS] & Light Bond [LB] (Reliance Orthodontic Products) and a positive control group [CG] Tetric EvoFlow (Ivoclar Vivadent). The sealants were applied on 180 bovine teeth (n = 10/ sealer) in a standardized manner after bracket bonding. Mechanical pressure and its effect by simulating different time points and standardized electric cleaning protocol was tested first. Followed by thermal burden due to varying thermal stress and thirdly change in pH stress imitating chemical exposure were examined separately. A digital microscope and a grid incisal and apical to the brackets (n = 32 fields) was used to standardize the optical analysis. Material loss due to mechanical stress compared to CG (score 0.00) was CP (1.2%), FP (21.5%), LB (22.2%) and PN (81.1%). No significant difference to CG presented PS. Material loss due to thermal stress was CP (0.5%), PS (2%), FP (2.6%), LB (3.1%) and PN (39.9%). Material loss due to chemical stress was FP (1.8%), PS (2.1%), LB (5.5%) and PN (39.6%). No significant difference to CG presented CP. Only PS and CP had optically provable, good resiliance to mechanical, thermal and chemical stress. Significantly poorer outcomes in particular showed PN.
Genomic prediction for growth using a low-density SNP panel in dromedary camels
Authors: Bitaraf Sani Morteza , Zare Harofte Javad , Banabazi Mohammad Hossein , Esmaeilkhanian Saeid , Shafei Naderi Ali , Salim Nader , Teimoori Abbas , Bitaraf Ahmad , Zadehrahmani Mohammad , Burger Pamela Anna , Landi Vincenzo , Silawi Mohammad , Taghipour Sheshdeh Afsaneh , Faghihi Mohammad Ali
Published: April 2021

For thousands of years, camels have produced meat, milk, and fiber in harsh desert conditions. For a sustainable development to provide protein resources from desert areas, it is necessary to pay attention to genetic improvement in camel breeding. By using genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) method we produced over 14,500 genome wide markers to conduct a genome- wide association study (GWAS) for investigating the birth weight, daily gain, and body weight of 96 dromedaries in the Iranian central desert. A total of 99 SNPs were associated with birth weight, daily gain, and body weight (p-value < 0.002). Genomic breeding values (GEBVs) were estimated with the BGLR package using (i) all 14,522 SNPs and (ii) the 99 SNPs by GWAS. Twenty-eight SNPs were associated with birth weight, daily gain, and body weight (p-value < 0.001). Annotation of the genomic region (s) within ± 100 kb of the associated SNPs facilitated prediction of 36 candidate genes. The accuracy of GEBVs was more than 0.65 based on all 14,522 SNPs, but the regression coefficients for birth weight, daily gain, and body weight were 0.39, 0.20, and 0.23, respectively. Because of low sample size, the GEBVs were predicted using the associated SNPs from GWAS. The accuracy of GEBVs based on the 99 associated SNPs was 0.62, 0.82, and 0.57 for birth weight, daily gain, and body weight. This report is the first GWAS using GBS on dromedary camels and identifies markers associated with growth traits that could help to plan breeding program to genetic improvement. Further researches using larger sample size and collaboration of the camel farmers and more profound understanding will permit verification of the associated SNPs identified in this project. The preliminary results of study show that genomic selection could be the appropriate way to genetic improvement of body weight in dromedary camels, which is challenging due to a long generation interval, seasonal reproduction, and lack of records and pedigrees.
MicroRNA treatment modulates osteogenic differentiation potential of mesenchymal stem cells derived from human chorion and placenta
Authors: Marupanthorn Kulisara , Tantrawatpan Chairat , Kheolamai Pakpoom , Tantikanlayaporn Duangrat , Manochantr Sirikul
Published: April 2021

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are important in regenerative medicine because of their potential for multi-differentiation. Bone marrow, chorion and placenta have all been suggested as potential sources for clinical application. However, the osteogenic differentiation potential of MSCs derived from chorion or placenta is not very efficient. Bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) plays an important role in bone development. Its effect on osteogenic augmentation has been addressed in several studies. Recent studies have also shown a relationship between miRNAs and osteogenesis. We hypothesized that miRNAs targeted to Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx-2), a major transcription factor of osteogenesis, are responsible for regulating the differentiation of MSCs into osteoblasts. This study examines the effect of BMP-2 on the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs isolated from chorion and placenta in comparison to bone marrow-derived MSCs and investigates the role of miRNAs in the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs from these sources. MSCs were isolated from human bone marrow, chorion and placenta. The osteogenic differentiation potential after BMP-2 treatment was examined using ALP staining, ALP activity assay, and osteogenic gene expression. Candidate miRNAs were selected and their expression levels during osteoblastic differentiation were examined using real-time RT-PCR. The role of these miRNAs in osteogenesis was investigated by transfection with specific miRNA inhibitors. The level of osteogenic differentiation was monitored after anti-miRNA treatment. MSCs isolated from chorion and placenta exhibited self-renewal capacity and multi-lineage differentiation potential similar to MSCs isolated from bone marrow. BMP-2 treated MSCs showed higher ALP levels and osteogenic gene expression compared to untreated MSCs. All investigated miRNAs (miR-31, miR-106a and miR148) were consistently downregulated during the process of osteogenic differentiation. After treatment with miRNA inhibitors, ALP activity and osteogenic gene expression increased over the time of osteogenic differentiation. BMP-2 has a positive effect on osteogenic differentiation of chorion- and placenta-derived MSCs. The inhibition of specific miRNAs enhanced the osteogenic differentiation capacity of various MSCs in culture and this strategy might be used to promote bone regeneration. However, further in vivo experiments are required to assess the validity of this approach.
Assessing probabilistic modelling for wind speed from numerical weather prediction model and observation in the Arctic
Authors: Chen Hao , Birkelund Yngve , Anfinsen Stian Normann , Staupe-Delgado Reidar , Yuan Fuqing
Published: April 2021

Mapping Arctic renewable energy resources, particularly wind, is important to ensure the transition into renewable energy in this environmentally vulnerable region. The statistical characterisation of wind is critical for effectively assessing energy potential and planning wind park sites and is, therefore, an important input for wind power policymaking. In this article, different probability density functions are used to model wind speed for five wind parks in the Norwegian Arctic region. A comparison between wind speed data from numerical weather prediction models and measurements is made, and a probability analysis for the wind speed interval corresponding to the rated power, which is largely absent in the existing literature, is presented. The results of the present study suggest that no single probability function outperforms across all scenarios. However, some differences emerged from the models when applied to different wind parks. The Nakagami and Generalised extreme value distributions were chosen for the numerical weather predicted prediction and the observed wind speed modelling, respectively, due to their superiority and stability compared with other methods. This paper, therefore, provides a novel direction for understanding the numerical weather prediction wind model and shows that its speed statistical features are better captured than those of real wind.
Assessment of the conjunctival microcirculation for patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction compared to healthy controls
Authors: Brennan Paul F. , McNeil Andrew J. , Jing Min , Awuah Agnes , Moore Julie S. , Mailey Jonathan , Finlay Dewar D. , Blighe Kevin , McLaughlin James A. D. , Nesbit M. Andrew , Trucco Emanuele , Moore Tara C. B. , Spence Mark S.
Published: April 2021

Microcirculatory dysfunction occurs early in cardiovascular disease (CVD) development. Acute myocardial infarction (MI) is a late consequence of CVD. The conjunctival microcirculation is readily-accessible for quantitative assessment and has not previously been studied in MI patients. We compared the conjunctival microcirculation of acute MI patients and age/sex-matched healthy controls to determine if there were differences in microcirculatory parameters. We acquired images using an iPhone 6s and slit-lamp biomicroscope. Parameters measured included diameter, axial velocity, wall shear rate and blood volume flow. Results are for all vessels as they were not sub-classified into arterioles or venules. The conjunctival microcirculation was assessed in 56 controls and 59 inpatients with a presenting diagnosis of MI. Mean vessel diameter for the controls was 21.41 ± 7.57 μm compared to 22.32 ± 7.66 μm for the MI patients (p < 0.001). Axial velocity for the controls was 0.53 ± 0.15 mm/s compared to 0.49 ± 0.17 mm/s for the MI patients (p < 0.001). Wall shear rate was higher for controls than MI patients (162 ± 93 s−1 vs 145 ± 88 s−1, p < 0.001). Blood volume flow did not differ significantly for the controls and MI patients (153 ± 124 pl/s vs 154 ± 125 pl/s, p = 0.84). This pilot iPhone and slit-lamp assessment of the conjunctival microcirculation found lower axial velocity and wall shear rate in patients with acute MI. Further study is required to correlate these findings further and assess long-term outcomes in this patient group with a severe CVD phenotype.
Discovery of a low-latitude ionospheric trough associated with the inner radiation belt
Authors: Karpachev A. T.
Published: April 2021

The dynamics of ionospheric troughs that developed during a great geomagnetic storm on 11–13 April 2001 are studied using measurements of electron density obtained by the CHAMP satellite at an altitude of 410–465 km. Subauroral, mid-latitude and low-latitude troughs were observed at nighttime, sometimes simultaneously. The subauroral trough is usually defined as the main ionospheric trough, whereas the mid-latitude trough is associated with the magnetospheric ring current. It appeared at the beginning of the storm recovery phase around latitudes of 40°–45° GMLat (L = 1.7–2.0) and existed for a long period of time throughout the late recovery phase of the residual ring current at latitudes of 50°–55° GMLat (L ~ 2.4–3.0). For the first time, a low-latitude trough was revealed. It developed at latitudes of 34°–45° GMLat (L = 1.45–2.00) in association with the precipitation of energetic particles from the inner radiation belt.
Alteration of the gut fecal microbiome in children living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy in Yaounde, Cameroon
Authors: Abange William Baiye , Martin Casey , Nanfack Aubin Joseph , Yatchou Laeticia Grace , Nusbacher Nichole , Nguedia Clement Assob , Kamga Hortense Gonsu , Fokam Joseph , Kennedy Sean P. , Ndjolo Alexis , Lozupone Catherine , Nkenfou Celine Nguefeu
Published: April 2021

Multiple factors, such as immune disruption, prophylactic co-trimoxazole, and antiretroviral therapy, may influence the structure and function of the gut microbiome of children infected with HIV from birth. In order to understand whether HIV infection altered gut microbiome and to relate changes in microbiome structure and function to immune status, virological response and pediatric ART regimens, we characterized the gut microbiome of 87 HIV-infected and 82 non-exposed HIV-negative children from Yaounde, a cosmopolitan city in Cameroon. We found that children living with HIV had significantly lower alpha diversity in their gut microbiome and altered beta diversity that may not be related to CD4+ T cell count or viral load. There was an increased level ofAkkermansiaandFaecalibacteriumgenera and decreased level ofEscherichiaand otherGamma proteobacteriain children infected with HIV, among other differences. We noted an effect of ethnicity/geography on observed gut microbiome composition and that children on ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor (PI/r)-based ART had gut microbiome composition that diverged more from HIV-negative controls compared to those on non-nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors-based ART. Further studies investigating the role of this altered gut microbiome in increased disease susceptibility are warranted for individuals who acquired HIV via mother-to-child transmission.
Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry fragment regularity in gallium-doped zinc oxide thin films
Authors: Saw K. G. , Esa S. R.
Published: April 2021

Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry fragment analysis remains a challenging task. The fragment appearance regularity (FAR) rule is particularly useful for two-element compounds such as ZnO. Ion fragments appearing in the form of ZnxOy obey the rule $$2x \ge 2y + 1$$

2
x
≥
2
y
+
1

in the positive secondary ion spectrum and $$2x \le 2y + 1$$

2
x
≤
2
y
+
1

in the negative spectrum where the valence of Zn is + 2 and that of O is − 2. Fragment analysis in gallium-doped ZnO (GZO) films can give insights into the bonding of the elements in this important semiconductor. Fragment analysis of 1 and 7 wt% GZO films shows that only the negative ion fragments obey the FAR rule where ZnO‒, 66ZnO‒, 68ZnO‒ and ZnO2‒ ion fragments appear. In the positive polarity, subdued peaks from out-of-the-rule ZnO+, 66ZnO+ and 68ZnO+ ion fragments are observed. The Ga ion peaks are present in both the positive and negative spectra. The secondary ion spectra of undoped ZnO also shows consistency with the FAR rule. This implies that Ga doping even in amounts that exceed the ZnO lattice limit of solubility does not affect the compliance with the FAR rule.
En face image-based classification of diabetic macular edema using swept source optical coherence tomography
Authors: Fujiwara Atsushi , Kanzaki Yuki , Kimura Shuhei , Hosokawa Mio , Shiode Yusuke , Doi Shinichiro , Takahashi Kosuke , Matoba Ryo , Morizane Yuki
Published: April 2021

This retrospective study was performed to classify diabetic macular edema (DME) based on the localization and area of the fluid and to investigate the relationship of the classification with visual acuity (VA). The fluid was visualized using en face optical coherence tomography (OCT) images constructed using swept-source OCT. A total of 128 eyes with DME were included. The retina was segmented into: Segment 1, mainly comprising the inner nuclear layer and outer plexiform layer, including Henle’s fiber layer; and Segment 2, mainly comprising the outer nuclear layer. DME was classified as: foveal cystoid space at Segment 1 and no fluid at Segment 2 (n = 24), parafoveal cystoid space at Segment 1 and no fluid at Segment 2 (n = 25), parafoveal cystoid space at Segment 1 and diffuse fluid at Segment 2 (n = 16), diffuse fluid at both segments (n = 37), and diffuse fluid at both segments with subretinal fluid (n = 26). Eyes with diffuse fluid at Segment 2 showed significantly poorer VA, higher ellipsoid zone disruption rates, and greater central subfield thickness than did those without fluid at Segment 2 (P < 0.001 for all). These results indicate the importance of the localization and area of the fluid for VA in DME.
Simple method for detecting idiopathic interstitial pneumonias by measuring vertical lung length on chest X-ray
Authors: Karayama Masato , Aoshima Yoichiro , Yasui Hideki , Hozumi Hironao , Suzuki Yuzo , Furuhashi Kazuki , Fujisawa Tomoyuki , Enomoto Noriyuki , Nakamura Yutaro , Inui Naoki , Suda Takafumi
Published: April 2021

Detection of idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIPs) on chest X-ray is difficult for non-specialist physicians, especially in patients with mild IIPs. The current study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of a simple method for detecting IIPs by measuring vertical lung length (VLL) in chest X-rays to quantify decreased lung volume. A total of 280 consecutive patients with IIPs were randomly allocated to exploratory and validation cohorts, and 140 controls were selected for each cohort by propensity score-matching. Upper (uVLL; from apex to tracheal carina), lower (lVLL; from carina to costophrenic angle), and total VLL (tVLL; from apex to costophrenic angle), and the l/uVLL ratio were measured on chest X-rays. Patients in the exploratory cohort had significantly decreased uVLL, lVLL, tVLL, and l/uVLL ratio compared with controls (all p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses demonstrated that lVLL (area under the curve [AUC] 0.86, sensitivity 0.65, specificity 0.92), tVLL (AUC 0.83, sensitivity 0.75, specificity 0.80), and l/uVLL ratio (AUC 0.80, sensitivity 0.72, specificity 0.79) had high diagnostic accuracies for IIPs. These results were reproduced in the validation cohort. IIP patients thus have decreased VLLs, and measurements of VLL may thus aid the accurate detection of IIPs.
Predicting regional coastal sea level changes with machine learning
Authors: Nieves Veronica , Radin Cristina , Camps-Valls Gustau
Published: April 2021

All ocean basins have been experiencing significant warming and rising sea levels in recent decades. There are, however, important regional differences, resulting from distinct processes at different timescales (temperature-driven changes being a major contributor on multi-year timescales). In view of this complexity, it deems essential to move towards more sophisticated data-driven techniques as well as diagnostic and prognostic prediction models to interpret observations of ocean warming and sea level variations at local or regional sea basins. In this context, we present a machine learning approach that exploits key ocean temperature estimates (as proxies for the regional thermosteric sea level component) to model coastal sea level variability and associated uncertainty across a range of timescales (from months to several years). Our findings also demonstrate the utility of machine learning to estimate the possible tendency of near-future regional sea levels. When compared to actual sea-level records, our models perform particularly well in the coastal areas most influenced by internal climate variability. Yet, the models are widely applicable to evaluate the patterns of rising and falling sea levels across many places around the globe. Thus, our approach is a promising tool to model and anticipate sea level changes in the coming (1–3) years, which is crucial for near-term decision making and strategic planning about coastal protection measures.
Tuning intermediate adsorption in structurally ordered substituted PdCu3intermetallic nanoparticles for enhanced ethanol oxidation reaction
Authors: Jana Rajkumar , Datta Ayan , Malik Sudip
Published: April 2021

Structurally ordered Ni substituted PdCu3nanoparticles were found to remarkably enhance the ethanol oxidation efficiency due to optimal adsorption of intermediates in close proximity.
Review on quasi-2D square planar nickelates
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Tao Xutang
Published: April 2021

Quasi-2D square planar nickelates exhibit key ingredients of high-Tc superconducting cuprates. Whether bulk samples are superconducting remains an open question, single crystals are ideal platforms for addressing such fundamental questions.
Nitroethane at high density: an experimental and computational vibrational study
Authors: Yoshinaka Akio , Desgreniers Serge , Hu Anguang
Published: April 2021

Raman and IR vibrational spectra confirm two molecular units associated with the monoclinic unit cell of nitroethane under high pressure. Raman spectra are extremely sensitive to predicted effects of unit cell distortion due to changes in H-bonding.
Ferrous ions inhibit Cu uptake and accumulation via inducing iron plaque and regulating the metabolism of rice plants exposed to CuO nanoparticles
Authors: Yuan Peng , Peng Cheng , Shi Jiyan , Liu Jianshe , Cai Dongqing , Wang Dongfang , Shen Yihao
Published: April 2021

Ferrous ions effectively reduced the adsorption and uptake of CuO NPs by rice plants via forming iron plaque, while markedly downregulated abundant organic acids and amino acids but upregulated fatty acids to inhibit the Cu accumulation in plants.
The photothermal synergy effect of pure Ti3C2Txin antibacterial reaction and its mechanism
Authors: Zhang Rumeng , Li Chao , Liu Wei , Huang Yingping , Wang Bo , Xiao Kemeng , Wong Po Keung , Ye Liqun
Published: April 2021

Pure Ti3C2Txexhibit an activation effect onE. coliunder visible infrared light due to the physical contact, photogenerated free radicals, and photothermal synergy.
Anredera cordifolia extract enhances learning and memory in senescence-accelerated mouse-prone 8 (SAMP8) mice
Authors: Sumiyoshi Eri , Hashimoto Michio , Hossain Shahdat , Matsuzaki Kentaro , Islam Rafiad , Tanabe Yoko , Maruyama Koji , Kajima Koji , Arai Hiroyuki , Ohizumi Yasushi , Shido Osamu
Published: April 2021

Anredera cordifolia extract increased learning and memory by enhancing levels of hippocampal BDNF, PSD95, NR2A, and p-CREB in SAMP8 mice.
Tunable and transparent broadband metamaterial absorber with water-based substrate for optical window applications
Authors: Zhang Yaqiang , Dong Hongxing , Mou Nanli , Li Haonan , Yao Xin , Zhang Long
Published: April 2021

We present theoretically and demonstrate experimentally a tunable and transparent broadband metamaterial absorber with a water-based substrate, and the absorption properties can be tuned by controlling the thickness of the water substrate.
Core-corona Co/CoP clusters strung on carbon nanotubes as a Schottky catalyst for glucose oxidation assisted H2 production
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Qiu Yunfeng , Ma Zhuo , Wang Yanping , Zhang Yongxia , Ying Yuxin , Jiang Yinan , Zhu Yixue , Liu Shaoqin
Published: April 2021

Schottky core-corona Co/CoP clusters strung on CNT can effectively favour water dissociation, H* adsorption/desorption and glucose formyl C–H activation, thus significantly enhancing H2 production performance via glucose oxidation reaction.
Ni substitution effect on the structure, magnetization, resistivity and permeability of zinc ferrites
Authors: Vinnik D. A. , Zhivulin V. E. , Sherstyuk D. P. , Starikov A. Yu. , Zezyulina P. A. , Gudkova S. A. , Zherebtsov D. A. , Rozanov K. N. , Trukhanov S. V. , Astapovich K. A. , Sombra A. S. B. , Zhou D. , Jotania R. B. , Singh C. , Trukhanov A. V.
Published: April 2021

Increase in the spontaneous magnetization up to x < 0.5 is a sequence of appearance of the additional magnetic moment of 2 μB of the Ni2+ cations in tetrahedral positions. For x > 0.5, the moment decreases in octahedral positions and the spontaneous magnetization also decreases.
TiN nanopillar-enhanced laser desorption and ionization of various analytes
Authors: Yamada Yuri , Yatsugi Kenichi , Murase Masakazu , Mizoshita Norihiro
Published: April 2021

TiN nanopillar was applied as a robust analytical substrate for the laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry of various types of analytes with a wide mass range. Numerical simulation validated the heat confinement effect of the pillar shape.
Proton conductive polyoxoniobate frameworks constructed from nanoscale {Nb68O200} cages
Authors: Lin Yu-Diao , Zhu Zeng-Kui , Ge Rui , Yu Hao , Li Zhong , Sun Cai , Sun Yan-Qiong , Li Xin-Xiong , Zheng Shou-Tian
Published: April 2021

Nanoscale {Nb68O200} cages have been successfully employed as flexible and stable secondary building units to combine with bridging copper–amine complexes to construct two proton conductive polyoxoniobate frameworks, demonstrating a promising strategy for making new porous materials.
Bioorthogonal control of the phosphorescence and singlet oxygen photosensitisation properties of iridium(iii) tetrazine complexes
Authors: Leung Peter Kam-Keung , Lee Lawrence Cho-Cheung , Yeung Herman Ho-Yin , Io Kai-Wa , Lo Kenneth Kam-Wing
Published: April 2021

The phosphorescence and singlet oxygen photosensitisation of iridium(iii) tetrazine complexes can be controlled by their specific bioorthogonal reactions with strained alkynes and alkenes for bioimaging and photocytotoxic applications.
Asymmetric copper-catalyzed propargylic amination with amine hydrochloride salts
Authors: Huang Jian , Kong Han-Han , Li Si-Jia , Zhang Rui-Jin , Qian Hao-Dong , Li Dan-Ran , He Jin-Yu , Zheng Yi-Nuo , Xu Hao
Published: April 2021

A highly enantioselective copper-catalyzed propargylic amination of propargylic esters with amine hydrochloride salts has been realized under mild conditions.
Thermal decomposition of cyclohexane by flash pyrolysis vacuum ultraviolet photoionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry: a study on the initial unimolecular decomposition mechanism
Authors: Shao Kuanliang , Liu Xinghua , Jones Paul J. , Sun Ge , Gomez Mariah , Riser Blake P. , Zhang Jingsong
Published: April 2021

Cyclohexane decomposes mainly via C–C bond rupture producing 1,6-hexyl diradical. The diradical leads to 1-hexene and can also directly dissociate. C6H12 does not decompose to ˙C6H11 + H. Benzene can be formed via sequential H2 eliminations of C6H12.
Concluding remarks: Reaction mechanisms in catalysis: perspectives and prospects
Authors: Catlow C. Richard A.
Published: April 2021

A combination of powerful computational and experimental techniques is revealing the mechanistic details of key catalytic reactions.
A polysaccharide of PFP-1 from Pleurotus geesteranus attenuates alcoholic liver diseases via Nrf2 and NF-κB signaling pathways
Authors: Song Xinling , Sun Wenxue , Cui Weijun , Jia Le , Zhang Jianjun
Published: April 2021

A polysaccharide named PFP-1 was isolated from the Pleurotus geesteranus fruiting body, and potential investigations on ameliorating oxidative stress and liver injury against alcoholic liver disease (ALD) were performed in mice.
Size-tuneable isolation of cancer cells using stretchable inertial microfluidics
Authors: Fallahi Hedieh , Yadav Sharda , Phan Hoang-Phuong , Ta Hang , Zhang Jun , Nguyen Nam-Trung
Published: April 2021

We present a stretchable inertial microfluidic device for tuneable separation of spiked cancer cells from blood sample.
Prodrug-based self-assembled nanoparticles formed by 3′,5′-dioleoyl floxuridine for cancer chemotherapy
Authors: Xu Hui , Xiao Yue , Tang Jinlu , Liu Dongfang , Shi Xinxin , Aryee Aaron Albert , Meng Hongmin , Qu Lingbo , Li Zhaohui
Published: April 2021

Amphiphilic prodrug molecules (3′,5′-dioleoyl floxuridine, DOF) were constructed to form prodrug nanoparticles (DOF NPs) through a self-assembly process in water. The DOF NPs were easily prepared, relatively stable, and displayed improved anti-tumor activity.
New star-shape memory polyurethanes capable of thermally induced recovery and hydrogen bond-self-healing
Authors: Huang Zonghui , Ban Jianfeng , Pan Lulu , Cai Shuqing , Liao Junqiu
Published: April 2021

Star-shape memory polyurethanes that combine thermally responsive and self-healing properties.
Understanding and controlling the glass transition of HTPB oligomers
Authors: Dossi Eleftheria , Earnshaw Jacob , Ellison Laurence , Rabello dos Santos Gabriella , Cavaye Hamish , Cleaver Douglas J.
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we use a combination of experiment and simulation to achieve enhanced levels of synthetic control on the microstructure of the much-used binder material hydroxyl terminated polybutadiene (HTPB).
An ionic liquid–molecularly imprinted composite based on graphene oxide for the specific recognition and extraction of cancer antigen 153
Authors: Han Shuang , Yao Aixin , Wang Yuan
Published: April 2021

In this research, we used GO as the support material, IL as the stabilizer, CA153 as the template and DA as the functional monomer for the preparation of GMIPs. The GMIP was successfully used as an enrichment agent for the selective enrichment of CA153.
Large magnetodielectric response of PST/LSMO/LCMO film over a wide temperature range
Authors: Chen Ying , Xue Fen , Zhou Zhengyang , Wang Genshui , Wang Wensheng , Dong Xianlin , Wu Liangcai , Song Zhitang
Published: April 2021

Pb0.6Sr0.4TiO3/La0.7Sr0.3MnO3/La0.7Ca0.3MnO3 (PST/LSMO/LCMO) film is grown on Si substrate by chemical solution deposition method.
Performance and stability comparison of Aemion™ and Aemion+™ membranes for vanadium redox flow batteries
Authors: Shanahan Brian , Britton Benjamin , Belletti Andrew , Vierrath Severin , Breitwieser Matthias
Published: April 2021

Cycling behaviour of Aemion™ (50 μm), Aemion+™ (50 μm), Aemion+™ (15 μm) and Nafion® 212 (50 μm) at 100 mA cm−2. (a) Coulombic efficiency, (b) energy efficiency and (c) membrane resistance.
Light-up photoluminescence sensing of a nerve agent simulant by a bis-porphyrin–salen–UO2 complex
Authors: Gangemi Chiara Maria Antonietta , Rimkaite Ugne , Pappalardo Andrea , Trusso Sfrazzetto Giuseppe
Published: April 2021

The exposure of a nerve agent simulant to a fluorogenic sensor results in a significant increase in fluorescence response, allowing the construction of a paper test for the naked-eye detection of DMMP.
Nanostructure and thermoresponsiveness of poly(N-isopropyl methacrylamide)-based hydrogel microspheres prepared via aqueous free radical precipitation polymerization
Authors: Nishizawa Yuichiro , Minato Haruka , Inui Takumi , Saito Ikuma , Kureha Takuma , Shibayama Mitsuhiro , Uchihashi Takayuki , Suzuki Daisuke
Published: April 2021

Nanostructure and thermoresponsiveness of single and packed poly(N-isopropyl methacrylamide)-based microgels observed by temperature-controllable high speed atomic force microscopy.
Dual C–H activation: Rh(iii)-catalyzed cascade π-extended annulation of 2-arylindole with benzoquinone
Authors: Zhang Qijing , Li Qianrong , Wang Chengming
Published: April 2021

A Rh-catalyzed cascade annulation of N–H free 2-arylindole with benzoquinone via dual C–H activation strategy was reported.
N-Alkylation/aldol reaction of α-aldimino thioesters: a facile three-component coupling reaction
Authors: Shimizu Makoto , Higashino Asako , Mizota Isao , Zhu Yusong
Published: April 2021

Treatment of α-aldimino thioesters with dialkylzinc reagents in the presence of aldehydes or imines gives three-component coupling products in good yields with good to high anti-selectivities.
Catalytic enantioselective bromohydroxylation of cinnamyl alcohols
Authors: Li Jing , Shi Yian
Published: April 2021

Optically active bromohydrins are obtained with up to 95% ee via asymmetric bromohydroxylation of cinnamyl alcohols with H2O as nucleophile.
Highly efficient ammonia synthesis at low temperature over a Ru–Co catalyst with dual atomically dispersed active centers
Authors: Peng Xuanbei , Liu Han-Xuan , Zhang Yangyu , Huang Zheng-Qing , Yang Linlin , Jiang Yafei , Wang Xiuyun , Zheng Lirong , Chang Chunran , Au Chak-tong , Jiang Lilong , Li Jun
Published: April 2021

The desire for a carbon-free society and the continuously increasing demand for clean energy make it valuable to exploit green ammonia (NH3) synthesis that proceeds via the electrolysis driven Haber–Bosch (eHB) process.
The mechanism of bulky imidazolium cation storage in dual graphite batteries: a spectroscopic and theoretical investigation
Authors: Lv Zichuan , Cao Haining , Zhou Shuai , Geng Kaihao , Du Huiping , Bian Yinghui , Chen Hui , Huang Hao , Li Yuxia , Lin Meng-Chang
Published: April 2021

The insights into cation storage in the shallow surface of the bulk GE provided by in situ XRD and in situ Raman spectroscopy is the combination of intercalation and intercalation pseudocapacitance and is dominated by the latter.
Elongated heterometal double-sites promote nitrogen reduction on two-dimensional MM′B7 monolayers
Authors: Zhu Changyan , Wen Chaoxia , Wang Cong , Zhang Min , Geng Yun , Su Zhongmin
Published: April 2021

Long-distance heterometal M and M′ metals can further promote the activation and polarization of the intrinsic triple bond due to an eligible orbital matching and a stronger accepting–donating interaction to the side-on adsorbed N2 molecule.
Boosting the performance of lithium metal capacitors with a Li composite anode
Authors: Liu Bao , Chen Jiangtao , Yang Bingjun , Liu Lingyang , Sun Yinglun , Hou Ruilin , Lin Zifeng , Yan Xingbin
Published: April 2021

A Li metal capacitor with enhanced performance is achieved by constructing a dendrite-free Li metal composite anode.
Photostable AIE probes for wash-free, ultrafast, and high-quality plasma membrane staining
Authors: Sayed Sayed Mir , Jia Hao-Ran , Jiang Yao-Wen , Zhu Ya-Xuan , Ma Liang , Yin Feifei , Hussain Imtiaz , Khan Arshad , Ma Qian , Wu Fu-Gen , Lu Xiaolin
Published: April 2021

We develop an organic fluorescent probe based on aggregation-induced emission for rapid, wash-free, and stable plasma membrane imaging.
A novel strategy for fabricating highly stretchable and highly conductive photoluminescent ionogels via an in situ self-catalytic cross-linking reaction in ionic liquids
Authors: Hao Shuai , Zhang Jianxin , Yang Xuemeng , Li Tianci , Song Hongzan
Published: April 2021

Novel luminescent ionogels with excellent stretchability, high ionic conductivity, and good temperature tolerance were fabricated via a self-catalytic cross-linking method.