bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heatwaves during low tide are critical for the physiological performance of intertidal macroalgae under global warming scenarios
Authors: Román Marta , Román Salvador , Vázquez Elsa , Troncoso Jesús , Olabarria Celia
Published: December 2020

The abundance and distribution of intertidal canopy-forming macroalgae are threatened by the increase in sea surface temperature and in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves caused by global warming. This study evaluated the physiological response of predominant intertidal macroalgae in the NW Iberian Peninsula (Bifurcaria bifurcata, Cystoseira tamariscifolia and Codium tomentosum) to increased seawater temperature during immersion and increased air temperatures during consecutive emersion cycles. We combined field mensuration and laboratory experiments in which we measured mortality, growth, maximum quantum yield and C:N content of the macroalgae. Air temperature was a critical factor in determining physiological responses and survivorship of all species, whereas high seawater temperature had sublethal effects. Cystoseira tamariscifolia suffered the greatest decreases in Fv/Fm, growth and the highest mortality under higher air temperatures, whereas C. tomentosum was the most resistant and resilient species. Two consecutive cycles of emersion under atmospheric heatwaves caused cumulative stress in all three macroalgae, affecting the physiological performance and increasing the mortality. The potential expansion of the warm-temperate species B. bifurcata, C. tamariscifolia and C. tomentosum in the NW Iberian Peninsula in response to increasing seawater temperature may be affected by the impact of increased air temperature, especially in a region where the incidence of atmospheric heatwaves is expected to increase.
Composition and geographic variation of the bacterial microbiota associated with the coelomic fluid of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus
Authors: Faddetta Teresa , Ardizzone Francesco , Faillaci Francesca , Reina Chiara , Palazzotto Emilia , Strati Francesco , De Filippo Carlotta , Spinelli Giovanni , Puglia Anna Maria , Gallo Giuseppe , Cavalieri Vincenzo
Published: December 2020

In the present work, culture-based and culture-independent investigations were performed to determine the microbiota structure of the coelomic fluid of Mediterranean sea urchinParacentrotus lividusindividuals collected from two distinct geographical sites neighboring a high-density population bay and a nature reserve, respectively. Next Generation Sequencing analysis of 16S rRNA gene (rDNA) showed that members of theProteobacteria,BacteroidetesandFusobacteriaphyla, which have been previously reported to be commonly retrieved from marine invertebrates, dominate the overall population of microorganisms colonizing this liquid tissue, with minority bacterial genera exhibiting remarkable differences among individuals. Our results showed that there is a correlation between microbiota structure and geographical location of the echinoderm collection site, highlighting over-representation of metagenomic functions related to amino acid and bioactive peptides metabolism in specimens inhabiting the nature reserve. Finally, we also described the developmental delay and aberrations exhibited by sea urchin embryos exposed to distinct bacterial isolates, and showed that these defects rely upon hydrophilic compound(s) synthesized by the bacterial strains assayed. Altogether, our findings lay the groundwork to decipher the relationships of bacteria with sea urchins in their aquatic environment, also providing an additional layer of information to understand the biological roles of the coelomic fluid.
Non-invasive pulmonary artery pressure estimation by electrical impedance tomography in a controlled hypoxemia study in healthy subjects
Authors: Proença Martin , Braun Fabian , Lemay Mathieu , Solà Josep , Adler Andy , Riedel Thomas , Messerli Franz H. , Thiran Jean-Philippe , Rimoldi Stefano F. , Rexhaj Emrush
Published: December 2020

Pulmonary hypertension is a hemodynamic disorder defined by an abnormal elevation of pulmonary artery pressure (PAP). Current options for measuring PAP are limited in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to evaluate if electrical impedance tomography (EIT), a radiation-free and non-invasive monitoring technique, can be used for the continuous, unsupervised and safe monitoring of PAP. In 30 healthy volunteers we induced gradual increases in systolic PAP (SPAP) by exposure to normobaric hypoxemia. At various stages of the protocol, the SPAP of the subjects was estimated by transthoracic echocardiography. In parallel, in the pulmonary vasculature, pulse wave velocity was estimated by EIT and calibrated to pressure units. Within-cohort agreement between both methods on SPAP estimation was assessed through Bland–Altman analysis and at subject level, with Pearson’s correlation coefficient. There was good agreement between the two methods (inter-method difference not significant (P > 0.05), bias ± standard deviation of − 0.1 ± 4.5 mmHg) independently of the degree of PAP, from baseline oxygen saturation levels to profound hypoxemia. At subject level, the median per-subject agreement was 0.7 ± 3.8 mmHg and Pearson’s correlation coefficient 0.87 (P < 0.05). Our results demonstrate the feasibility of accurately assessing changes in SPAP by EIT in healthy volunteers. If confirmed in a patient population, the non-invasive and unsupervised day-to-day monitoring of SPAP could facilitate the clinical management of patients with pulmonary hypertension.
Effects of constructal theory on thermal management of a power electronic system
Authors: Asadi Amin , Pourfattah Farzad
Published: December 2020

Thermal management of power electronics (PE) systems is a long-lasting challenge in their industrial applications. It is important to provide a uniform temperature distribution on the surface of the insulated gate bipolar transistors and diodes. The thermal management of a PE module is the main objective of the present study. The flow characteristics and the effects of the constructal theory on the heat transfer performance of the cooling system have been numerically investigated. The governing equations have been discretized using the finite volume method, and validation has been done to make sure the results are reliable. The effects of different channels configurations on decreasing the chips’ temperature and uniform temperature distribution on the chips’ surface have been studied. The flow characteristics and heat transfer performance at different mass flow rates for different channel configurations have been studied by presenting the results of the average chips’ temperature, Nusselt (Nu) number, pressure loss, and standard temperature deviation. Moreover, different temperature distribution contours have been presented to show the performance of different configurations. The results revealed that by changing the channels’ configuration from the conventional straight channel to leaf-inspired channels (case B and C), the cooling performance is improved.
Dynamic switching between intrinsic and extrinsic mode networks as demands change from passive to active processing
Authors: Riemer Frank , Grüner Renate , Beresniewicz Justyna , Kazimierczak Katarzyna , Ersland Lars , Hugdahl Kenneth
Published: December 2020

In this study we report on the relationship between default and extrinsic mode networks across alternating brief periods of rest and active task processing. Three different visual tasks were used in a classic fMRI ON–OFF block design where task (ON) blocks alternated with equal periods of rest (OFF) blocks: mental rotation, working memory and mental arithmetic. We showed the existence of a generalized task-positive network, labelled the extrinsic mode network (EMN) that is anti-correlated with the default mode network (DMN) as processing demands shifted from rest to active processing. We then identified two key regions of interest (ROIs) in the supplementary motor area (SMA) and precuneus/posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) regions as hubs for the extrinsic and intrinsic networks, and extracted the time-course from these ROIs. The results showed a close to perfect anti-correlation for the SMA and Precuneus/PCC time-courses for ON- and OFF-blocks. We suggest the existence of two large-scale networks, an extrinsic mode network and an intrinsic mode network, which are up- and down-regulated as environmental demands change from active to passive processing.
Extralesional microvascular and structural macular abnormalities in cytomegalovirus retinitis
Authors: Wongchaisuwat Nida , Khongpipatchaisiri Sansanee , Boonsopon Sutasinee , Choopong Pitipol , Tesavibul Nattaporn , Prakhunhungsit Supalert , Thoongsuwan Somanus , Rodanant Nuttawut , Phasukkijwatana Nopasak
Published: December 2020

To evaluate extralesional microvascular and structural changes of the macula using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and structural OCT in cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVR). An observational study of CMVR patients were performed. Complete ophthalmic examination, serial color fundus photography, structural OCT and OCTA were performed at baseline and follow-up visits for up to 12 months. The structural OCT was analyzed to evaluate macular areas within, bordering and beyond the CMVR lesions. Extralesional retinal capillary plexus of the macula were evaluated by OCT angiography and compared with the unaffected fellow eyes. Thirteen eyes from 13 patients were enrolled. At baseline, macular areas without CMVR lesions showed decreased vessel density (VD) of both the superficial (P = 0.0002) and deep (P < 0.0001) retinal capillary plexus in eyes with CMVR as compared with the corresponding macular areas of the unaffected fellow eyes. The decrease of VD persisted through the follow-up period for up to 12 months after adjusting for degree of vitreous haze. Structural macular OCT characteristics at the borders and beyond the lesions included intraretinal hyperreflective dots, cystoid macular edema, subretinal fluid and selective ellipsoid zone (EZ) loss. The selective EZ loss found in 6 of 12 eyes showed recovery in 4 eyes after receiving anti-viral treatment. In CMVR eyes, there were microvascular and microstructural abnormalities in the macular area without clinically visible CMVR lesions. Our results provided interesting insights into CMV infection of the retina.
Acclimatization of photosynthetic apparatus and antioxidant metabolism to excess soil cadmium in Buddleja spp.
Authors: Gong Weichang , Dunn Bruce L. , Chen Yaqing , Shen Yunmei
Published: December 2020

Heavy metal (HM) pollutants can cause serious phytotoxicity or oxidative stress in plants. Buddleja L., commonly known as “butterfly bushes”, are frequently found growing on HM-contaminated land. However, to date, few studies have focused on the physiological and biochemical responses of Buddleja species to HM stress. In this study, potted seedlings of B. asiatica Lour. and B. macrostachya Wall. ex Benth. were subjected to various cadmium (Cd) concentrations (0, 25, 50, 100, and 200 mg kg−1) for 90 days. Both studied Buddleja species showed restricted Cd translocation capacity. Exposure to Cd, non-significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed, including quantum yield of photosystem II (PSII), effective quantum yield of PSII, photochemical quenching and non-photochemical quenching in both species between all studied Cd concentrations. Moreover, levels of cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) significantly declined (p < 0.05) with low malondialdehyde concentrations. In B. asiatica, high superoxide dismutase and significantly enhanced (p < 0.05) peroxidase (POD) activity contributed greatly to the detoxification of excess ROS, while markedly enhanced POD activity was observed in B. macrostachya. Additionally, B. macrostachya showed higher membership function values than did B. asiatica. These results suggested that both Buddleja species exhibited high Cd resistance and acclimatization.
Constant neuropilar ratio in the insect brain
Authors: Polilov Alexey A. , Makarova Anastasia A.
Published: December 2020

Revealing scaling rules is necessary for understanding the morphology, physiology and evolution of living systems. Studies of animal brains have revealed both general patterns, such as Haller's rule, and patterns specific for certain animal taxa. However, large-scale studies aimed at studying the ratio of the entire neuropil and the cell body rind in the insect brain have never been performed. Here we performed morphometric study of the adult brain in 37 insect species of 26 families and ten orders, ranging in volume from the smallest to the largest by a factor of more than 4,000,000, and show that all studied insects display a similar ratio of the volume of the neuropil to the cell body rind, 3:2. Allometric analysis for all insects shows that the ratio of the volume of the neuropil to the volume of the brain changes strictly isometrically. Analyses within particular taxa, size groups, and metamorphosis types also reveal no significant differences in the relative volume of the neuropil; isometry is observed in all cases. Thus, we establish a new scaling rule, according to which the relative volume of the entire neuropil in insect brain averages 60% and remains constant.
The transcription factor TAL1 and miR-17-92 create a regulatory loop in hematopoiesis
Authors: Meyer Annekarin , Herkt Stefanie , Kunze-Schumacher Heike , Kohrs Nicole , Ringleb Julia , Schneider Lucas , Kuvardina Olga N. , Oellerich Thomas , Häupl Björn , Krueger Andreas , Seifried Erhard , Bonig Halvard , Lausen Joern
Published: December 2020

A network of gene regulatory factors such as transcription factors and microRNAs establish and maintain gene expression patterns during hematopoiesis. In this network, transcription factors regulate each other and are involved in regulatory loops with microRNAs. The microRNA cluster miR-17-92 is located within the MIR17HG gene and encodes six mature microRNAs. It is important for hematopoietic differentiation and plays a central role in malignant disease. However, the transcription factors downstream of miR-17-92 are largely elusive and the transcriptional regulation of miR-17-92 is not fully understood. Here we show that miR-17-92 forms a regulatory loop with the transcription factor TAL1. The miR-17-92 cluster inhibits expression of TAL1 and indirectly leads to decreased stability of the TAL1 transcriptional complex. We found that TAL1 and its heterodimerization partner E47 regulate miR-17-92 transcriptionally. Furthermore, miR-17-92 negatively influences erythroid differentiation, a process that depends on gene activation by the TAL1 complex. Our data give example of how transcription factor activity is fine-tuned during normal hematopoiesis. We postulate that disturbance of the regulatory loop between TAL1 and the miR-17-92 cluster could be an important step in cancer development and progression.
Impact of different manufacturers and gauge sizes on the performance of backflush needle
Authors: Imai Hisanori , Tetsumoto Akira , Yamada Hiroko , Nakamura Makoto
Published: December 2020

The present study aimed to identify the factors regulating aspiration rate (AR) of backflush needles and to compare those factors across various backflush needles from different manufacturers. The 27-gauge (27G), 25-gauge, and 23-gauge backflush needles from four different manufacturers, Alcon, MedOne, VitreQ, and DORC, were used for this experiment. AR was measured at four different aspiration vacuum levels: 100, 200, 400, and 650 mmHg. AR was significantly increased as the aspiration vacuum level increased when both aspirating balanced salt solution (BSS) and ethylene glycol; however, 27G products from VitreQ and MedOne were unable to aspirate ethylene glycol at the low aspiration vacuum level of 100 mmHg. When aspirating BSS at the high aspiration vacuum level of 650 mmHg, a smaller gauge number generally resulted in a significantly higher AR. AR, inner diameter, and cross-sectional area in Alcon products were significantly larger in any gauge, and the shaft length of Alcon products was significantly shorter than those of other manufacturers’ products in any gauge. Cross-sectional area negatively correlated with the degree of shaft deflection (r2 = 0.21, p = 0.042). These results imply that AR differs significantly among backflush needles and among companies depending on the shaft cross-sectional area.
A chemiluminescence-based heterogeneous asymmetric recombinase polymerase amplification assay for the molecular detection of mycotoxin producers
Authors: Sollweck Katharina , Schwaiger Gerhard , Seidel Michael
Published: December 2020

A method using chemiluminescence-based heterogeneous asymetric recombinase polymerase amplification for the detection and quantification of mycotoxin producers was developed.
Development of a microfluidic membraneless vaporization flow system for trace analysis of arsenic
Authors: Ratanawimarnwong Nuanlaor , Ruckchang Patcharat , Yooram Supattra , Songsrirote Kriangsak , Uraisin Kanchana , Cerdà Victor
Published: December 2020

A new design of a membraneless vaporization (MBL-VP) unit coupled with a specific flow system is presented for the determination of arsenic at trace levels using a hydride generation process.
One-pot synthesis of novel water-dispersible fluorescent silicon nanoparticles for selective Cr2O72− sensing
Authors: Wen Qiaoqiao , Pan Congjie , Qin Xuezhen , Ma Qiujuan , Feng Suxiang
Published: December 2020

The novel water dispersible SiNPs which were prepared by a one-step hydrothermal method were applied to the detection of Cr2O72−via internal filtering effect (IFE) and a fluorescent paper sensor for visual detection of Cr2O72− was developed.
Multivariate optimization of ultrasound-assisted liquid–liquid microextraction based on two solvents for cadmium preconcentration prior to determination by flame atomic absorption spectrometry
Authors: Ferreira Vanessa Jesus , de Jesus Marina Santos , dos Santos Mayara Costa , Guedes Wesley N. , Lemos Valfredo A. , Novaes Cleber G. , Costa Floriatan Santos , Pacheco Clissiane S. Viana , da Silva Erik Galvão Paranhos , Amorim Fábio Alan Carqueija
Published: December 2020

A method based on ultrasound-assisted emulsification liquid–liquid microextraction (USAEME) for cadmium determination by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) was developed in this work.
Stepping stones to the future of haemoglobin-based blood products: clinical, preclinical and innovative examples
Authors: Coll-Satue Clara , Bishnoi Shahana , Chen Jiantao , Hosta-Rigau Leticia
Published: December 2020

Critical overview of the different oxygen therapeutics developed so far to be used when donor blood is not available.
A CoV2O4 precatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction: highlighting the importance of postmortem electrocatalyst characterization
Authors: Michaud Samuel E. , Riehs Michael T. , Feng Wei-Jie , Lin Chia-Cheng , McCrory Charles C. L.
Published: December 2020

Postmortem analysis of a CoV2O4 catalyst for oxygen evolution reveals the active species is likely a vanadium-free amorphous cobalt oxide.
A novel STING agonist for cancer immunotherapy and a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine adjuvant
Authors: Wu Jun-Jun , Zhao Lang , Han Bei-Bei , Hu Hong-Guo , Zhang Bo-Dou , Li Wen-Hao , Chen Yong-Xiang , Li Yan-Mei
Published: December 2020

A novel STING agonist was synthesized and successfully applied to cancer immunotherapy and as a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine adjuvant.
Assembly of functionalized π-extended indolizine polycycles through dearomative [3+2] cycloaddition/oxidative decarbonylation
Authors: Jin Shaojing , Wang Lele , Han Huabin , Liu Xiongli , Bu Zhanwei , Wang Qilin
Published: December 2020

An unexpected construction of functionalized π-extended indolizine polycycles through a one-pot two-step process comprising the base-promoted dearomative [3+2] cycloaddition and a DDQ-mediated oxidative decarbonylation was developed.
The elusive crystals of calcium acetate hemihydrate: chiral rods linked by parallel hydrophilic strips
Authors: Abrahams Brendan F. , Commons Christopher J. , Hudson Timothy A. , Sanchez Arlt Robin W.
Published: December 2020

The chance discovery of crystals of calcium acetate hemihydrate, which is commonly formed on calcareous heritage objects, has allowed its single crystal structure determination; this remarkable crystal structure consists of chiral rod-like units.
Methane activation by ZSM-5-supported transition metal centers
Authors: Kiani Daniyal , Sourav Sagar , Tang Yadan , Baltrusaitis Jonas , Wachs Israel E.
Published: December 2020

The literature on methane dehydroaromatization (MDA) to benzene using ZSM-5 supported, group V–VIII transition metal-based catalysts (MOx/ZSM-5) is critically reviewed with a focus on in situ and operando molecular insights.
Remarkable capacitive performance in novel tungsten bronze ceramics
Authors: Zhang Xinzhong , Ye Wenbo , Bu Xingying , Zheng Peng , Li Lili , Wen Fei , Bai Wangfeng , Zheng Liang , Zhang Yang
Published: December 2020

A high energy storage density and large efficiency, together with excellent charge–discharge performance, can be simultaneously achieved in the designed tungsten bronze-structured ceramics.
Post-combustion emissions control in aero-gas turbine engines
Authors: Prashanth Prakash , Speth Raymond L. , Eastham Sebastian D. , Sabnis Jayant S. , Barrett Steven R. H.
Published: December 2020

Emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from aircraft cause air quality degradation and climate change. Use of ultra-low sulfur fuel along with post-combustion emissions control results in a net benefit of 304 USD per metric tonne of jet fuel burned.
One-pot access to sulfonylated naphthalenediols/hydroquinones from naphthols/phenols with sodium sulfinates in an aqueous medium
Authors: Meng Lingxin , Zhang Ruike , Guan Yuqiu , Chen Tian , Ding Zhiqiang , Wang Gongshu , Reheman Aikebaier , Chen Zhangpei , Hu Jianshe
Published: December 2020

A metal-free method towards sulfonylated hydroquinones/naphthalenediols under an ambient atmosphere has been developed with up to 97% yield.
Stereoselectivity in dehydrative cyclic trimerization of substituted 4-alkylaminobenzoic acids
Authors: Takagi Koji , Yamaguchi Hinako , Miyamoto Daiki , Deguchi Yuka , Hirao Takehiro , Haino Takeharu
Published: December 2020

Cyclic trimerization of two 4-alkylaminobenzoic acids was performed to investigate the stereochemistry.
Decoding the kinetic limitations of plasmon catalysis: the case of 4-nitrothiophenol dimerization
Authors: Koopman Wouter , Sarhan Radwan M. , Stete Felix , Schmitt Clemens N. Z. , Bargheer Matias
Published: December 2020

Nanoscale heating determines the rate of plasmon-driven nitro-thiophenol coupling.
Introducing visible-light sensitivity into photocatalytic CeO2 nanoparticles by hybrid particle preparation exploiting plasmonic properties of gold: enhanced photoelectrocatalysis exemplified for hydrogen peroxide sensing
Authors: Zhao Shuang , Riedel Marc , Patarroyo Javier , Bastus Neus , Puntes Victor , Yue Zhao , Lisdat Fred , Parak Wolfgang J.
Published: December 2020

Enhancement of the photocatalytic current of CeO2 NPs upon their linkage to plasmonic Au NPs.
Deciphering the excited-state dynamics and multicarrier interactions in perovskite core–shell type hetero-nanocrystals
Authors: Ren Yinjuan , Nie Zhonghui , Deng Fei , Wang Ziming , Xia Siyang , Wang Yue
Published: December 2020

We observed the hole transfer and confirmed the formation of charge transfer state in CsPbBr3@ZnS core–shell type NCs. The Auger recombination is largely suppressed, endowing the hetero-nanocrystals with unique optical gain properties.
Phosphorus-doping-induced kinetics modulation for nitrogen-doped carbon mesoporous nanotubes as superior alkali metal anode beyond lithium for high-energy potassium-ion hybrid capacitors
Authors: Li Jie , Yu Lai , Li Yapeng , Wang Gongrui , Zhao Liping , Peng Bo , Zeng Suyuan , Shi Liang , Zhang Genqiang
Published: December 2020

PNC-MeNTs have been fabricated by a template-assisted method and carbonization treatment, and they exhibit outstanding electrochemical performance for Na+/K+ storage.
Oxygenated functional group-engaged electroless deposition of ligand-free silver nanoparticles on porous carbon for efficient electrochemical non-enzymatic H2O2 detection
Authors: Chen Qian , Zhou Lingxi , Jiang Weidong , Fan Guangyin
Published: December 2020

Ag/PC synthesized by using a novel one-step substrate-induced electroless deposition (SIED) strategy showed excellent performance for electrochemical non-enzymatic H2O2 detection.
A high speed electrically switching reflective structural color display with large color gamut
Authors: Wang Wenqiang , Guan Zhiqiang , Xu Hongxing
Published: December 2020

We theoretically designed a reflective structural color display pixel with high electrically switching speed (∼10 MHz) and large color gamut (157% sRGB).
The microbial adhesive arsenal deciphered by atomic force microscopy
Authors: Beaussart Audrey , Feuillie Cécile , El-Kirat-Chatel Sofiane
Published: December 2020

Microbes employ a variety of strategies to adhere to abiotic and biotic surfaces, as well as host cells.
Surface-induced phase engineering and defect passivation of perovskite nanograins for efficient red light-emitting diodes
Authors: Ye Yong-Chun , Li Yanqing , Tian Yu , Cai Xiao-Yi , Shen Yang , Shen Kong-Chao , Gao Xingyu , Song Fei , Wang Wenjun , Tang Jian-Xin
Published: December 2020

Efficient and stable red-emission perovskite light-emitting diodes with an EQE of 17.1% are realized by guanidinium iodide-assisted surface engineering.
Ring opening polymerization of ε-caprolactone through water
Authors: Atta Supriya , Cohen Jarrod , Kohn Joachim , Gormley Adam J.
Published: December 2020

Ring opening polymerization (ROP) through water is used to synthesize biodegradable polymers such as polycaprolactone (PCL).
Cp*Ir(iii)- and Cp*Rh(iii)-catalyzed C(sp2)–H amination of arenes using thioethers as directing groups
Authors: Xie Hui , Zhong Mei , Wang Xiao-Tong , Wu Jia-Qiang , Cai Yan-Qu , Liu Jidan , Shu Bing , Che Tong , Zhang Shang-Shi
Published: December 2020

A mild and selective Cp*Ir(iii)- and Cp*Rh(iii)-catalyzed direct C(sp2)–H amination of arenes and three types of nitrene precursor reagents is reported, with the assistance of a thioether directing group.
Arylation of enelactams using TIPSOTf: reaction scope and mechanistic insight
Authors: Idzik Tomasz J. , Myk Zofia M. , Struk Łukasz , Perużyńska Magdalena , Maciejewska Gabriela , Droździk Marek , Sośnicki Jacek G.
Published: December 2020

Triisopropylsilyltrifluoromethanesulfonate can be effectively used for the arylation of a wide range of enelactams. The multinuclear NMR study provided deep insights into the reaction mechanism.
A chiroptical approach for the absolute stereochemical determination of P-stereogenic centers
Authors: Chakraborty Debarshi , Gholami Hadi , Sarkar Aritra , Joyce Leo A. , Jackson James E. , Borhan Babak
Published: December 2020

A simple chiroptical solution for the absolute stereochemical determination for asymmetric phosphorus V stereocenters is presented.
A β-hairpin epitope as novel structural requirement for protein arginine rhamnosylation
Authors: Yakovlieva Liubov , Wood Thomas M. , Kemmink Johan , Kotsogianni Ioli , Koller Franziska , Lassak Jürgen , Martin Nathaniel I. , Walvoort Marthe T. C.
Published: December 2020

For bacterial arginine rhamnosylation, the rhamnosyltransferase EarP specifically recognizes a β-hairpin structure in the acceptor substrate.
New chemistry for enhanced carbon capture: beyond ammonium carbamates
Authors: Forse Alexander C. , Milner Phillip J.
Published: December 2020

New pathways for carbon capture and sequestration are needed to tackle the challenge of rising anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions.
Confined growth of MOF nanocrystals using a “locked” metal ion source
Authors: Huang Zhongliang , Fan LongLong , Chen Bin , Zhou Shu-feng , Huang Jiale , Li Qingbiao , Zhan Guowu
Published: December 2020

We report a facile strategy for the confined growth of Cu-MOF nanocrystals in a mesoporous silica shell using “locked” Cu ions.
3D tree-shaped hierarchical flax fabric for highly efficient solar steam generation
Authors: Li Yaping , Fan Jie , Wang Run , Shou Wan , Wang Liang , Liu Yong
Published: December 2020

A 3D hierarchical tree-shaped biomimetic flax fabric is fabricated and modified by one-step synthesis of polydopamine–polypyrrole composite nanofibers to achieve highly efficient solar steam generation, with great potential in water purification and seawater desalination.
Structurally and chemically engineered graphene for capacitive deionization
Authors: Chang Liang , Fei Yuhuan , Hu Yun Hang
Published: December 2020

The structurally and chemically engineered graphenes have promoted the increase of the electrosorption capacity from 1.85 to ∼150 mg g−1.
Energy-level modulation of coumarin-based molecular donors for efficient all small molecule fullerene-free organic solar cells
Authors: Pradhan Rashmirekha , Dahiya Hemraj , Bag Bhawani Prasad , Keshtov Mukhamed L. , Singhal Rahul , Sharma Ganesh D. , Mishra Amaresh
Published: December 2020

Despite their minimal HOMO energy level offset promising power conversion efficiencies up to 13.54% have been recorded for ternary organic solar cells using coumarin-based molecular donors and fullerene-free acceptors.
Size-controlled synthesis of bioinspired polyserotonin nanoparticles with free radical scavenging activity
Authors: Jeon Keuna , Andoy Nesha May O. , Schmitt Christian W. , Xue Yilei , Barner Leonie , Sullan Ruby May A.
Published: December 2020

Shortest synthetic route for polyserotonin nanoparticles as a new class of bioinspired nanomaterial with demonstrated therapeutic potential for future clinical applications.
Water-soluble ZnSe/ZnS:Mn/ZnS quantum dots convert UV to visible light for improved Si solar cell efficiency
Authors: Nishimura Hisaaki , Maekawa Takaya , Enomoto Kazushi , Shigekawa Naoteru , Takagi Tomomi , Sobue Susumu , Kawai Shoichi , Kim DaeGwi
Published: December 2020

The sensitivity of Si solar cells to the UV portion of the solar spectrum is low, and must be increased to further improve their efficiencies.
High-performance near-infrared photodetectors based on C3N quantum dots integrated with single-crystal graphene
Authors: Zhao Yun , Feng Xiaoqiang , Zhao Menghan , Zheng Xiaohu , Liu Zhiduo , Yang Siwei , Tang Shiwei , Chen Da , Wang Gang , Ding Guqiao
Published: December 2020

Employing C3N QD-integrated single-crystal graphene, photodetectors exhibited a distinct photocurrent response at 1550 nm. The photocurrent map revealed that the fast response derive from C3N QDs that enhanced the local electric field near graphene.
One-step conversion of CsPbBr3 into Cs4PbBr6/CsPbBr3@Ta2O5 core–shell microcrystals with enhanced stability and photoluminescence
Authors: Zhang Manli , Li Yao , Du Kaimin , Gao Xuan , Lu Yu , Wen Ding , Yao Shuang , Feng Jing , Zhang Hongjie
Published: December 2020

Cs4PbBr6/CsPbBr3@Ta2O5 microcrystals were prepared through a one-step sol–gel method at room temperature. It possesses better stability and photoluminescence properties than Cs4PbBr6/CsPbBr3.
The Development of the “Telislife” Questionnaire for the Evaluation of Telephone Use in Cochlear Implant Users
Authors: Bolzer Adrien , Hoen Michel , Montaut-Verient Bettina , Hoffmann Charles , Ardoint Marine , Laplante-Lévesque Ariane , Guevara Nicholas , Mom Thierry , Karoui Chadlia , Vincent Christophe , Parietti-Winkler Cécile
Published: December 2020

Purpose

For cochlear implant users, the ability to use the telephone is often seen as an important landmark during rehabilitation and an indicator of cochlear implant benefit. The goal of this study was to develop a short questionnaire exploring the ability to use the telephone in cochlear implant users, named Telislife, and test it in a group of experienced users.

Method

This prospective multicenter study was based on the completion of self-administrated questionnaires. The Telislife includes 20 items using a 5-point Likert scale for answers. Speech recognition scores were obtained with monosyllabic word lists at 70 dB HL. Quality of life was evaluated with the Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire. This study included 55 adult patients wearing a cochlear implant for over 1 year.

Results

The Telislife questionnaire showed excellent reliability (Cronbach's α = .91). A significant correlation was found between Telislife scores and Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire scores (
r
= .69,
p
< .001) and speech recognition scores (
r
= .35,
p
= .007).

Conclusion

Given significant correlations between Telislife scores and both speech recognition and quality of life and given its short form, the Telislife questionnaire appears to be a reliable tool to evaluate cochlear implant outcomes in clinical practice.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.13322873
Linear functional state bounding for positive singular systems with unbounded delay and disturbances varying within a bounded set
Authors: Sau Nguyen Huu
Published: December 2020

In this paper, the linear functional state bounding problem, which is considered in [25], is extended to the singular system with unbounded delay. Firstly, some conditions are presented to guaranteed positivity, regularity, impulse‐free, and the component‐wise bound for the state vector of the singular system without disturbance. Then, based on the results obtained and by using state transformations, the smallest component‐wise ultimate bound of the state vector of the singular system with bounded disturbances is derived. By using the new technique, some sufficient conditions were proposed given in terms of the linear programming/Hurwit matrix/spectral abscissa for linear functional state bounding problems of the singular system with unbounded delay. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the obtained results.
Candidate bus selection for dynamic VAR planning towards voltage stability enhancement considering copula‐based correlation of wind and load uncertainties
Authors: Chi Yuan , Xu Yan , Zhang Rui
Published: December 2020

As a critical step of VAR planning, candidate bus selection can significantly reduce the scale of the planning problem without impairing the optimality of the planning decisions. A novel candidate bus selection method is proposed considering not only the capacity sensitivity of candidate buses, but also the correlation among uncertainties of wind power generation and load demands. First, two metrics are proposed for different sensitivity analysis purposes to evaluate voltage performance in the post‐contingency stage comprehensively, considering the extent of the voltage deviation and voltage recovery time simultaneously. Then, D‐vine copulas are constructed systematically and employed to generated correlated operational scenarios for the dependent variable sensitivity analysis based on Kucherenko indices. Morris screening method is used for the independent capacity sensitivity analysis of the candidate buses. Finally, a 2‐dimensional candidate bus selection process is proposed for the decision‐makers to determine the candidate buses flexibly. The proposed method is tested on a modified Nordic 74‐bus system with an industry‐standard complex load model. Simulation results verify the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed method.
Mechanical defect identification for gas‐insulated switchgear equipment based on time‐frequency vibration signal analysis
Authors: Zhong Yao , Hao Jian , Liao Ruijin , Wang Xupeng , Jiang Xiping , Wang Feng
Published: December 2020

Mechanical defect is an important reason for the failure of gas‐insulated switchgear (GIS) equipment. Based on the time‐frequency characteristic vibration signal analysis on five kinds of mechanical defects, a novel intelligent algorithm model combining complementary ensemble empirical mode decomposition (CEEMD) and genetic algorithm improved kernel fuzzy mean clustering (GAKFCM) was proposed to identify the mechanical defect type. First, the mechanical defect platform and detection system were built. Then CEEMD and IMF sensitivity factors were used to analyse the time‐frequency signal of five kinds of vibration defects, and the feature extraction was performed on the processed vibration signals. Finally, the mechanical vibration defect recognition model was established based on the GAKFCM algorithm and its validity was verified. Results show that the developed detection system can detect mechanical vibration signals sensitively. Singular values, frequency band lines and entropy can reflect the energy attenuation and distribution differences for different type of mechanical defect vibration signals. The proposed GAKFCM clustering model combining the above vibration feature parameters can effectively find and diagnose the mechanical defect of GIS equipment. Its recognition accuracy reaches 96.74%, especially for the loose contact seat bolts and poor contact failures of the disconnector.
Electric vehicles reactive power management and reconfiguration of distribution system to minimise losses
Authors: Singh Jyotsna , Tiwari Rajive
Published: December 2020

This study investigates the optimal operation of distribution feeder reconfiguration (DFR) strategy in smart distribution system integrated with electric vehicles (EVs) and wind power generation. A two‐stage framework is proposed for real and reactive power management and DFR. In the first stage, demand dispatch of EVs is coordinated to utilise available wind power and minimise the total load variations. In the second stage, a comprehensive problem formulation is developed to minimise the losses in the system with simultaneous EVs reactive power management and DFR. A genetic algorithm is used to solve this two‐stage optimisation problem. A case study of 33‐bus radial distribution system is presented to highlight the efficacy of proposed approach. The obtained results are quantitatively assessed in terms of losses and node voltages. A comparative benchmarking analysis is presented to substantiate the role of DFR and reactive power capability of EVs in improving the system performance.
Fast and improved PSO (FIPSO)‐based deterministic and adaptive MPPT technique under partial shading conditions
Authors: Imtiaz Tabish , Khan Badrul Hasan , Khanam Nida
Published: December 2020

Partial shading in photovoltaic (PV) power generating systems is practically unavoidable and is a menace to the PV system. Non‐uniform shading can be caused due to clouds, tree branches, buildings or other nearby items. The non‐linear output characteristics of a PV source varies with temperature and solar insolation. During partial shading condition, the conventional hill‐climbing methods of maximum power point tracking (MPPT) prove to be inefficient. In partial shading, the power–voltage curve exhibits multiple peaks. Conventional MPPT methods get stuck on one of the local maxima and fail to attain the global maximum power point (GMPP). Particle swarm optimisation (PSO) has proved to be a very accurate and powerful technique to find GMPP. In this study, the authors improved the conventional PSO by reducing swarm size, as well as, the number of iterations to achieve MPP at a fast pace with remarkable accuracy, thus making the system more efficient with less computational effort. Simulation and hardware implementation for performance evaluation of the proposed technique is carried out to verify various qualities under different partial shading conditions, such as flexibility, reliability, system‐independence and high accuracy in tracking the GMPP under non‐uniform insolations.
A new recognition algorithm for high‐voltage lines based on improved LSD and convolutional neural networks
Authors: Luo Yanhong , Yu Xue , Yang Dongsheng
Published: December 2020

With the development of high‐voltage transmission and artificial intelligence technology, unmanned line inspection has become the inevitable trend of current electric power inspection. A new recognition algorithm for high‐voltage lines is proposed based on colour (Red, Green, Blue) RGB image to support the unmanned line inspection. Firstly, in order to solve the problem of missing weak edges in image edge detection, an improved Canny algorithm is proposed. Fourier transform Gaussian filter is introduced to enhance the high‐frequency signal of the image, which makes the extracted edge information more complete. At the same time, an improved line segment detector (LSD) algorithm is developed to extract the high‐voltage line. The complementary edge information of the three channels of the colour RGB image is analyzed, and the calculation formula of the horizontal line angle is improved, which greatly reduces the possibility of false detection and missed detection in the high‐voltage line extraction. In addition, the convolution neural network (CNN) is used to accurately recognize the extracted high‐voltage lines, which reduces the interference of non–high‐voltage lines. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has high recognition accuracy and strong robustness in the complex environment.
Identifying the degree of genetic interactions using Restricted Boltzmann Machine—A study on colorectal cancer
Authors: Saha Sujay , Bandopadhyay Saikat , Ghosh Anupam
Published: December 2020

The phenomenon of two or more genes affecting the expression of each other in various ways in the development of a single character of an organism is known as gene interaction. Gene interaction not only applies to normal human traits but to the diseased samples as well. Thus, an analysis of gene interaction could help us to differentiate between the normal and the diseased samples or between the two/more phases any diseased samples. At the first stage of this work we have used restricted Boltzmann machine model to find such significant interactions present in normal and/or cancer samples of every gene pairs of 20 genes of colorectal cancer data set (GDS4382) along with the weight/degree of those interactions. Later on, we are looking for those interactions present in adenoma and/or carcinoma samples of the same 20 genes of colorectal cancer data set (GDS1777). The weight/degree of those interactions represents how strong/weak an interaction is. At the end we will create a gene regulatory network with the help of those interactions, where the regulatory genes are identified by using Naïve Bayes Classifier. Experimental results are validated biologically by comparing the interactions with NCBI databases.
Detection of volatiles undergoing sublimation from 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko coma particles using ROSINA/COPS
Authors: Pestoni B. , Altwegg K. , Balsiger H. , Hänni N. , Rubin M. , Schroeder I. , Schuhmann M. , Wampfler S.
Published: December 2020

Context. The ESA Rosetta mission has allowed for an extensive in situ study of the comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko. In measurements performed by the ram gauge of the COmet Pressure Sensor (COPS), observed features are seen to deviate from the nominal ram gauge signal. This effect is attributable to the sublimation of the volatile fraction of cometary icy particles containing volatiles and refractories.

Aims. The objective of this work is to investigate the volatile content of icy particles that enter the COPS ram gauge.

Methods. We inspected the ram gauge measurements to search for features associated with the sublimation of the volatile component of cometary particles impacting the instrument. All the sublimation features with a high-enough signal-to-noise ratio were modelled by fitting one or more exponential decay functions. The parameters of these fits were used to categorise different compositions of the sublimating component.

Results. Based on features that are attributable to ice sublimation, we infer the detection of 73 icy particles containing volatiles. Of these, 25 detections have enough volatile content for an in-depth study. From the values of the exponential decay constants, we classified the 25 inferred icy particles into three types, interpreted as different volatile compositions, which are possibly further complicated by their differing morphologies. The available data do not give any indication as to which molecules compose the different types. Nevertheless, we can estimate the total volume of volatiles, which is expressed as the diameter of an equivalent sphere of water (density of 1 g cm−3). This result was found to be on the order of hundreds of nanometres.
SLITRONOMY: Towards a fully wavelet-based strong lensing inversion technique
Authors: Galan A. , Peel A. , Joseph R. , Courbin F. , Starck J.-L.
Published: December 2020

Strong gravitational lensing provides a wealth of astrophysical information on the baryonic and dark matter content of galaxies. It also serves as a valuable cosmological probe by allowing us to measure the Hubble constant independently of other methods. These applications all require the difficult task of inverting the lens equation and simultaneously reconstructing the mass profile of the lens along with the original light profile of the unlensed source. As there is no reason for either the lens or the source to be simple, we need methods that both invert the lens equation with a large number of degrees of freedom and also enforce a well-controlled regularisation that avoids the appearance of spurious structures. This can be beautifully accomplished by representing signals in wavelet space. Building on the Sparse Lens Inversion Technique (SLIT), we present an improved sparsity-based method that describes lensed sources using wavelets and optimises over the parameters given an analytical lens mass profile. We applied our technique on simulated HST and E-ELT data, as well as on real HST images of lenses from the Sloan Lens ACS sample, assuming a lens model. We show that wavelets allowed us to reconstruct lensed sources containing detailed substructures when using both present-day data and very high-resolution images expected from future thirty-metre-class telescopes. In the latter case, wavelets moreover provide a much more tractable solution in terms of quality and computation time compared to using a source model that combines smooth analytical profiles and shapelets. Requiring very little human interaction, our flexible pixel-based technique fits into the ongoing effort to devise automated modelling schemes. It can be incorporated in the standard workflow of sampling analytical lens model parameters while modelling the source on a pixelated grid. The method, which we call SLITRONOMY, is freely available as a new plug-in to the modelling software LENSTRONOMY.