bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals key epigenetic targets in SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Salgado-Albarrán Marisol , Navarro-Delgado Erick I. , Del Moral-Morales Aylin , Alcaraz Nicolas , Baumbach Jan , González-Barrios Rodrigo , Soto-Reyes Ernesto
Published: May 2021

COVID-19 is an infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2), which has caused a global outbreak. Current research efforts are focused on the understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in SARS-CoV-2 infection in order to propose drug-based therapeutic options. Transcriptional changes due to epigenetic regulation are key host cell responses to viral infection and have been studied in SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV; however, such changes are not fully described for SARS-CoV-2. In this study, we analyzed multiple transcriptomes obtained from cell lines infected with MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2, and from COVID-19 patient-derived samples. Using integrative analyses of gene co-expression networks and de-novo pathway enrichment, we characterize different gene modules and protein pathways enriched with Transcription Factors or Epifactors relevant for SARS-CoV-2 infection. We identified EP300, MOV10, RELA, and TRIM25 as top candidates, and more than 60 additional proteins involved in the epigenetic response during viral infection that has therapeutic potential. Our results show that targeting the epigenetic machinery could be a feasible alternative to treat COVID-19.
Total nitrogen is the main soil property associated with soil fungal community in karst rocky desertification regions in southwest China
Authors: Qi Daihua , Wieneke Xuwen , Xue Peipei , He Li , DeSilva Udaya
Published: May 2021

Karst rocky desertification (KRD) is a type of land deterioration, resulting in the degraded soil and a delicate ecosystem. Previous studies focused on the influence of KRD on the animals and plants, the impact of KRD on microorganisms, especially soil fungi remains to be discovered. This study reveals the change in the soil fungal community in response to KRD progression in southwest China. Illumina HiSeq was used to survey the soil fungal community. Results showed that the soil fungal community in the severe KRD (SKRD) was noticeably different from that in other KRD areas. Statistical analyses suggested that soil TN was the primary factor associated with the fungal community, followed by pH. Phylum Ascomycota was significantly abundant in non-degraded soils; whereas Basidiomycota predominated in SKRD. The ratio of Ascomycota/Basidiomycota significantly decreased along with KRD progression, which might be used as an indicator of KRD severity. Phylum Basidiomycota was sensitive to changes in all the soil properties but AP. Genus Sebacina might have the potential to promote vegetation and land restoration in KRD areas. This study fills a gap of knowledge on changes in soil fungal communities in accordance with KRD progression.
Predicting MHC I restricted T cell epitopes in mice with NAP-CNB, a novel online tool
Authors: Wert-Carvajal Carlos , Sánchez-García Rubén , Macías José R , Sanz-Pamplona Rebeca , Pérez Almudena Méndez , Alemany Ramon , Veiga Esteban , Sorzano Carlos Óscar S. , Muñoz-Barrutia Arrate
Published: May 2021

Lack of a dedicated integrated pipeline for neoantigen discovery in mice hinders cancer immunotherapy research. Novel sequential approaches through recurrent neural networks can improve the accuracy of T-cell epitope binding affinity predictions in mice, and a simplified variant selection process can reduce operational requirements. We have developed a web server tool (NAP-CNB) for a full and automatic pipeline based on recurrent neural networks, to predict putative neoantigens from tumoral RNA sequencing reads. The developed software can estimate H-2 peptide ligands, with an AUC comparable or superior to state-of-the-art methods, directly from tumor samples. As a proof-of-concept, we used the B16 melanoma model to test the system’s predictive capabilities, and we report its putative neoantigens. NAP-CNB web server is freely available at http://biocomp.cnb.csic.es/NeoantigensApp/ with scripts and datasets accessible through the download section.
A two-hybrid system reveals previously uncharacterized protein–protein interactions within the Helicobacter pylori NIF iron–sulfur maturation system
Authors: Benoit Stéphane L. , Agudelo Stephanie , Maier Robert J.
Published: May 2021

Iron–sulfur (Fe–S) proteins play essential roles in all living organisms. The gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori relies exclusively on the NIF system for biosynthesis and delivery of Fe–S clusters. Previously characterized components include two essential proteins, NifS (cysteine desulfurase) and NifU (scaffold protein), and a dispensable Fe–S carrier, Nfu. Among 38 proteins previously predicted to coordinate Fe–S clusters, two proteins, HP0207 (a member of the Nbp35/ApbC ATPase family) and HP0277 (previously annotated as FdxA, a member of the YfhL ferredoxin-like family) were further studied, using a bacterial two-hybrid system approach to identify protein–protein interactions. ApbC was found to interact with 30 proteins, including itself, NifS, NifU, Nfu and FdxA, and alteration of the conserved ATPase motif in ApbC resulted in a significant (50%) decrease in the number of protein interactions, suggesting the ATpase activity is needed for some ApbC-target protein interactions. FdxA was shown to interact with 21 proteins, including itself, NifS, ApbC and Nfu, however no interactions between NifU and FdxA were detected. By use of cross-linking studies, a 51-kDa ApbC-Nfu heterodimer complex was identified. Attempts to generate apbC chromosomal deletion mutants in H. pylori were unsuccessful, therefore indirectly suggesting the hp0207 gene is essential. In contrast, mutants in the fdxA gene were obtained, albeit only in one parental strain (26695). Taken together, these results suggest both ApbC and FdxA are important players in the H. pylori NIF maturation system.
Human-agent coordination in a group formation game
Authors: Takko Tuomas , Bhattacharya Kunal , Monsivais Daniel , Kaski Kimmo
Published: May 2021

Coordination and cooperation between humans and autonomous agents in cooperative games raise interesting questions on human decision making and behaviour changes. Here we report our findings from a group formation game in a small-world network of different mixes of human and agent players, aiming to achieve connected clusters of the same colour by swapping places with neighbouring players using non-overlapping information. In the experiments the human players are incentivized by rewarding to prioritize their own cluster while the model of agents’ decision making is derived from our previous experiment of purely cooperative game between human players. The experiments were performed by grouping the players in three different setups to investigate the overall effect of having cooperative autonomous agents within teams. We observe that the human subjects adjust to autonomous agents by being less risk averse, while keeping the overall performance efficient by splitting the behaviour into selfish and cooperative actions performed during the rounds of the game. Moreover, results from two hybrid human-agent setups suggest that the group composition affects the evolution of clusters. Our findings indicate that in purely or lesser cooperative settings, providing more control to humans could help in maximizing the overall performance of hybrid systems.
Refinement of 16S rRNA gene analysis for low biomass biospecimens
Authors: Villette Remy , Autaa Gaelle , Hind Sophie , Holm Johanna B. , Moreno-Sabater Alicia , Larsen Martin
Published: May 2021

High-throughput phylogenetic 16S rRNA gene analysis has permitted to thoroughly delve into microbial community complexity and to understand host-microbiota interactions in health and disease. The analysis comprises sample collection and storage, genomic DNA extraction, 16S rRNA gene amplification, high-throughput amplicon sequencing and bioinformatic analysis. Low biomass microbiota samples (e.g. biopsies, tissue swabs and lavages) are receiving increasing attention, but optimal standardization for analysis of low biomass samples has yet to be developed. Here we tested the lower bacterial concentration required to perform 16S rRNA gene analysis using three different DNA extraction protocols, three different mechanical lysing series and two different PCR protocols. A mock microbiota community standard and low biomass samples (108, 107, 106, 105 and 104 microbes) from two healthy donor stools were employed to assess optimal sample processing for 16S rRNA gene analysis using paired-end Illumina MiSeq technology. Three DNA extraction protocols tested in our study performed similar with regards to representing microbiota composition, but extraction yield was better for silica columns compared to bead absorption and chemical precipitation. Furthermore, increasing mechanical lysing time and repetition did ameliorate the representation of bacterial composition. The most influential factor enabling appropriate representation of microbiota composition remains sample biomass. Indeed, bacterial densities below 106 cells resulted in loss of sample identity based on cluster analysis for all tested protocols. Finally, we excluded DNA extraction bias using a genomic DNA standard, which revealed that a semi-nested PCR protocol represented microbiota composition better than classical PCR. Based on our results, starting material concentration is an important limiting factor, highlighting the need to adapt protocols for dealing with low biomass samples. Our study suggests that the use of prolonged mechanical lysing, silica membrane DNA isolation and a semi-nested PCR protocol improve the analysis of low biomass samples. Using the improved protocol we report a lower limit of 106 bacteria per sample for robust and reproducible microbiota analysis.
Differential microbial assemblages associated with shikonin-producing Borage species in two distinct soil types
Authors: Fazal Aliya , Yang Minkai , Wen Zhongling , Ali Farman , Ren Ran , Hao Chenyu , Chen Xingyu , Fu Jiangyan , Wang Xuan , Jie Wencai , Yin Tongming , Lu Guihua , Qi Jinliang , Yang Yonghua
Published: May 2021

Shikonin and its derivatives are the main components of traditional Chinese medicine, Zicao. The pharmacological potential of shikonin and its derivatives have been extensively studied. Yet, less is known about the microbial assemblages associated with shikonin producing Borage plants. We studied microbial profiles of two Borage species, Echium plantagineum (EP) and Lithospermum erythrorhizon (LE), to identify the dynamics of microbial colonization pattern within three rhizo-compatments and two distinct soil types. Results of α and β-diversity via PacBio sequencing revealed significantly higher microbial richness and diversity in the natural soil along with a decreasing microbial gradient across rhizosphere to endosphere. Our results displayed genotype and soil type–dependent fine-tuning of microbial profiles. The host plant was found to exert effects on the physical and chemical properties of soil, resulting in reproducibly different micro-biota. Analysis of differentially abundant microbial OTUs displayed Planctomycetes and Bacteroidetes to be specifically enriched in EP and LE rhizosphere while endosphere was mostly prevailed by Cyanobacteria. Network analysis to unfold co-existing microbial species displayed different types of positive and negative interactions within different communities. The data provided here will help to identify microbes associated with different rhizo-compartments of potential host plants. In the future, this might be helpful for manipulating the keystone microbes for ecosystem functioning.
CD13 is a critical regulator of cell–cell fusion in osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Ghosh Mallika , Kelava Tomislav , Madunic Ivana Vrhovac , Kalajzic Ivo , Shapiro Linda H.
Published: May 2021

The transmembrane aminopeptidase CD13 is highly expressed in cells of the myeloid lineage, regulates dynamin-dependent receptor endocytosis and recycling and is a necessary component of actin cytoskeletal organization. Here, we show that CD13-deficient mice present a low bone density phenotype with increased numbers of osteoclasts per bone surface, but display a normal distribution of osteoclast progenitor populations in the bone marrow and periphery. In addition, the bone formation and mineral apposition rates are similar between genotypes, indicating a defect in osteoclast-specific function in vivo. Lack of CD13 led to exaggerated in vitro osteoclastogenesis as indicated by significantly enhanced fusion of bone marrow-derived multinucleated osteoclasts in the presence of M-CSF and RANKL, resulting in abnormally large cells containing remarkably high numbers of nuclei. Mechanistically, while expression levels of the fusion-regulatory proteins dynamin and DC-STAMP1 must be downregulated for fusion to proceed, these are aberrantly sustained at high levels even in CD13-deficient mature multi-nucleated osteoclasts. Further, the stability of fusion-promoting proteins is maintained in the absence of CD13, implicating CD13 in protein turnover mechanisms. Together, we conclude that CD13 may regulate cell–cell fusion by controlling the expression and localization of key fusion regulatory proteins that are critical for osteoclast fusion.
Aerobic exercise intensity does not affect the anabolic signaling following resistance exercise in endurance athletes
Authors: Jones T. W. , Eddens L. , Kupusarevic J. , Simoes D. C. M. , Furber M. J. W. , van Someren K. A. , Howatson G.
Published: May 2021

This study examined whether intensity of endurance stimulus within a concurrent training paradigm influenced the phosphorylation of signaling proteins associated with the mTOR and AMPK networks. Eight male cyclists completed (1) resistance exercise (RES), 6 × 8 squats at 80% 1-RM; (2) resistance exercise and moderate intensity cycling of 40 min at 65% V̇O2peak, (RES + MIC); (3) resistance exercise and high intensity interval cycling of 40 min with 6 alternating 3 min intervals of 85 and 45% V̇O2peak (RES + HIIC), in a cross-over design. Muscle biopsies were collected at rest and 3 h post-RES. There was a main effect of condition for mTORS2448 (p = 0.043), with a greater response in the RES + MIC relative to RES condition (p = 0.033). There was a main effect of condition for AMPKα2T172 (p = 0.041), with a greater response in RES + MIC, relative to both RES + HIIC (p = 0.026) and RES (p = 0.046). There were no other condition effects for the remaining protein kinases assessed (p > 0.05). These data do not support a molecular interference effect in cyclists under controlled conditions. There was no intensity-dependent regulation of AMPK, nor differential activation of anabolism with the manipulation of endurance exercise intensity.
The bactericidal effect of vancomycin is not altered by tranexamic acid, adrenalin, dexamethasone, or lidocaine in vitro
Authors: Schwerdt Christiane , Röhner Eric , Böhle Sabrina , Jacob Benjamin , Matziolis Georg
Published: May 2021

One of the most challenging complications of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). There is growing evidence of a good anti-infective effect of intrawound vancomycin powder in total joint arthroplasty. At the same time, various different locally applied substances have become popular in total joint arthroplasty. The objective of this study was therefore to investigate a possible inhibition of the bactericidal effect of vancomycin by tranexamic acid, adrenalin, lidocaine, or dexamethasone. The bactericidal effect of vancomycin was quantified using the established method of the agar diffusion test. The plates were incubated with Staphylococcus aureus or Staphylococcus epidermidis and four wells were stamped out. The wells were filled with vancomycin alone, the tested substance alone or a mixture of the two. The fourth well remained empty as a control. The plates were incubated overnight at 37 °C and the zone of inhibition in each field was measured on the next day. All tests were run three times for each pathogen and mean values and standard deviations of the measurements were calculated. Differences between the substances were tested using the t-test at a level of significance of 0.05. The bacterial growth was homogeneous on all plates. The baseline value for the zone of inhibition of vancomycin was on average 6.2 ± 0.4 mm for Staphylococcus aureus and 12 ± 0.3 mm for Staphylococcus epidermidis. In all other substances, no inhibition was detected around the well. The combination of vancomycin and each other substance did not show any different result compared to vancomycin alone. The bactericidal effect of vancomycin on staphylococci is not altered by tranexamic acid, adrenalin, dexamethasone, or lidocaine in vitro.
Functional interaction between Wnt and Bmp signaling in periosteal bone growth
Authors: Song Deye , He Guangxu , Shi Yu , Ni Jiangdong , Long Fanxin
Published: May 2021

Wnt and Bmp proteins are well known to regulate bone development and homeostasis. Although both signals are extensively studied, their potential interaction in vivo is less well understood. Previous studies have shown that deletion of Bmpr1a, a type I receptor for Bmp signaling, results in excessive trabecular bone formation while diminishing periosteal bone growth. Moreover, forced-expression of the Wnt antagonist Sost suppresses the overgrowth of trabecular bone caused by Bmpr1a deletion, thus implicating hyperactive Wnt signaling in the excessive trabecular bone formation. However, it remains uncertain whether Wnt and Bmp signaling interacts in regulating the periosteal bone growth. Here we show that multiple Wnt genes are markedly suppressed in the cortical bone without Bmpr1a. Importantly, overexpression of Wnt7b fully rescues periosteal bone growth in the Bmpr1a-deficient mice. Thus, pharmacological activation of Wnt signaling can restore normal bone size without intact Bmp signaling.
The contributions of entorhinal cortex and hippocampus to error driven learning
Authors: Ku Shih-pi , Hargreaves Eric L. , Wirth Sylvia , Suzuki Wendy A.
Published: May 2021

Computational models proposed that the medial temporal lobe (MTL) contributes importantly to error-driven learning, though little direct in-vivo evidence for this hypothesis exists. To test this, we recorded in the entorhinal cortex (EC) and hippocampus (HPC) as macaques performed an associative learning task using an error-driven learning strategy, defined as better performance after error relative to correct trials. Error-detection signals were more prominent in the EC relative to HPC. Early in learning hippocampal but not EC neurons signaled error-driven learning by increasing their population stimulus-selectivity following error trials. This same pattern was not seen in another task where error-driven learning was not used. After learning, different populations of cells in both the EC and HPC signaled long-term memory of newly learned associations with enhanced stimulus-selective responses. These results suggest prominent but differential contributions of EC and HPC to learning from errors and a particularly important role of the EC in error-detection.
Halogen–sodium exchange enables efficient access to organosodium compounds
Authors: Asako Sobi , Takahashi Ikko , Nakajima Hirotaka , Ilies Laurean , Takai Kazuhiko
Published: May 2021

With sodium being the most abundant alkali metal on Earth, organosodium compounds are an attractive choice for sustainable chemical synthesis. However, organosodium compounds are rarely used—and are overshadowed by organolithium compounds—because of a lack of convenient and efficient preparation methods. Here we report a halogen–sodium exchange method to prepare a large variety of (hetero)aryl- and alkenylsodium compounds including tri- and tetrasodioarenes, many of them previously inaccessible by other methods. The key discovery is the use of a primary and bulky alkylsodium lacking β-hydrogens, which retards undesired reactions, such as Wurtz–Fittig coupling and β-hydrogen elimination, and enables efficient halogen–sodium exchange. The alkylsodium is readily prepared in situ from neopentyl chloride and an easy-to-handle sodium dispersion. We believe that the efficiency, generality, and convenience of the present method will contribute to the widespread use of organosodium in organic synthesis, ultimately contributing to the development of sustainable organic synthesis by rivalling the currently dominant organolithium reagents.
A critical evaluation of short columns for estimating the attachment efficiency of engineered nanomaterials in natural soils
Authors: Norrfors Knapp Karin , Micić Vesna , Borovinskaya Olga , von der Kammer Frank , Hofmann Thilo , Cornelis Geert
Published: May 2021

A combined experimental and theoretical approach to obtain the attachment efficiency (α) of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) for heterogeneous natural soils from short, saturated packed columns was investigated and optimized.
Borate-driven ionic rectifiers based on sugar-bearing single nanochannels
Authors: Cayón Vanina M. , Laucirica Gregorio , Toum Terrones Yamili , Cortez M. Lorena , Pérez-Mitta Gonzalo , Shen Jun , Hess Christian , Toimil-Molares María Eugenia , Trautmann Christina , Marmisollé Waldemar A. , Azzaroni Omar
Published: May 2021

Bioinspired borate-driven nanofluidic devices were constructed through the combination of atomic layer deposition (ALD) and silane chemistry into track-etched nanochannels.
Synthesis and characterisation of N-gene targeted NIR-II fluorescent probe for selective localisation of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Moitra Parikshit , Alafeef Maha , Dighe Ketan , Sheffield Zach , Dahal Dipendra , Pan Dipanjan
Published: May 2021

Antisense oligonucleotide targeted quantum dot is reported herein for selective localisation of SARS-CoV-2 in infected tissues. The probe shows aggregation induced NIR-II emission in presence of its target RNA.
Ultra-flexible and waterproof perovskite photovoltaics for washable power source applications
Authors: Huang Zengqi , Long Juan , Dai Runying , Hu Xiaotian , Le Liyun , Meng Xiangchuan , Tan Licheng , Chen Yiwang
Published: May 2021

An ultra-flexible and washable PSC is demonstrated herein with a combination of a flexible self-encapsulation method and EVA modified substrate.
An unprecedented hexagonal double perovskite organic–inorganic hybrid ferroelastic material: (piperidinium)2[KBiCl6]
Authors: Meng Qian-Ru , Xu Wei-Jian , Hu Wang-Hua , Ye Hui , Chen Xiao-Xian , Yuan Wei , Zhang Wei-Xiong , Chen Xiao-Ming
Published: May 2021

An unprecedented halide hexagonal double perovskite hybrid ferroelastic material reveals a spontaneous strain of 0.0615.
Luminescence properties and energy transfer of La3Ga5SiO14:Eu3+, Tb3+ phosphors
Authors: Zuo Xiang-Gang , Wang Yi , Wei Lei , Lv Xian-Shun , Fu Yang-Bin , Li Jing , Zhang Yuan-Yuan , Wang Xu-Ping , Liu Bing , Yang Yu-Guo
Published: May 2021

The La3Ga5SiO14 based phosphors were generated by substitutions of Tb3+/Eu3+ to La3+. The Tb3+ → Eu3+ energy transfer occurs in Tb3+/Eu3+ codoped phosphors. The La2.70Eu0.12Tb0.18Ga5Si14 phosphor shows an internal quantum yield about 88.82%.
Room-temperature diffusion of metal clusters on graphene
Authors: Zarshenas Mohammad , Gervilla Victor , Sangiovanni Davide G. , Sarakinos Kostas
Published: May 2021

Super-diffusion of Ag, Au and Cu clusters and normal diffusion of Pd cluster on graphene.
A single isomer rotary switch demonstrating anti-Kasha behaviour: Does acidity function matter?
Authors: Georgiev Anton , Yordanov Dancho , Vassilev Nikolay , Deneva Vera , Nedeltcheva Daniela , Angelov Ivan , Antonov Liudmil
Published: May 2021

A new rotary switch, showing anti-Kasha excited state intra-molecular proton transfer.
The origin of the faster mechanism of partial enthalpy recovery deep in the glassy state of polymers
Authors: Ngai K. L.
Published: May 2021

A novel finding made by Cangialosi and coworkers in the physical aging of several polymers way below the glass transition temperature Tg is that equilibrium recovery occurs by reaching a plateau in the enthalpy with partial enthalpy recovery.
Membrane fouling characteristics of membrane bioreactors (MBRs) under salinity shock: extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) and the optimization of operating parameters
Authors: Luo Ling , Zhong Hui , Yuan Ye , Zhou Wenwang , Zhong Changming
Published: May 2021

Membrane fouling characteristics under salinity shock.
Direct isolation of circulating extracellular vesicles from blood for vascular risk profiling in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Tay Hui Min , Leong Sheng Yuan , Xu Xiaohan , Kong Fang , Upadya Megha , Dalan Rinkoo , Tay Chor Yong , Dao Ming , Suresh Subra , Hou Han Wei
Published: May 2021

A simple, economical and scalable microfluidic separation technology (ExoDFF) for label-free isolation of circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) from whole blood.
Sulfonium-based liposome-encapsulated antibiotics deliver a synergistic antibacterial activity
Authors: Patel Anjali , Dey Subhasis , Shokeen Kamal , Karpiński Tomasz M. , Sivaprakasam Senthilkumar , Kumar Sachin , Manna Debasis
Published: May 2021

The devastating antibacterial infections, coupled with their antibiotic resistance abilities, emphasize the need for effective antibacterial therapeutics.
Electrochemically active site-rich nanocomposites of two-dimensional materials as anode catalysts for direct oxidation fuel cells: new age beyond graphene
Authors: Baruah Kashmiri , Deb Pritam
Published: May 2021

This review highlights recent advances in the development of efficient and durable anode catalysts based on new emerging 2D materials beyond graphene.
High elasticity and strength of ultra-thin metallic transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Sheraz Ali , Mehmood Naveed , Çiçek Mert Miraç , Ergün İbrahim , Rasouli Hamid Reza , Durgun Engin , Kasırga Talip Serkan
Published: May 2021

Breaking and elasticity of metallic two-dimensional materials has been overlooked so far. Here, we study four atomically thin metallic transition metal dichalcogenides using atomic force microscopy based nanoindendation and ab initio methods.
Tandem molecular self-assembly for selective lung cancer therapy with an increase in efficiency by two orders of magnitude
Authors: Zheng Debin , Liu Jingfei , Ding Yinghao , Xie Limin , Zhang Yingying , Chen Yaoxia , Peng Rong , Cai Miao , Wang Ling , Wang Huaimin , Gao Jie , Yang Zhimou
Published: May 2021

By using elevated level of phosphatase and reductase in lung cancer cells, we designed a tandem molecular self-assembling prodrug that could selectively improve the therapeutic efficacy of HCPT against lung cancer by two orders of magnitude.
Sequential condensation/biannulation reactions of β-(2-aminophenyl)-α,β-ynones with 1,3-dicarbonyls
Authors: Marsicano Vincenzo , Arcadi Antonio , Chiarini Marco , Fabrizi Giancarlo , Goggiamani Antonella , Iazzetti Antonia
Published: May 2021

A divergent domino reaction of β-(2-aminophenyl) α,β-ynones with 1,3-dicarbonyls to construct polycyclic 4H-pyrano[3,4-c]quinoline cores and perlodinine analogues has been developed.
Correction: Development and in vitro evaluation of κ-carrageenan based polymeric hybrid nanocomposite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Aslam Khan Muhammad Umar , Raza Mohsin Ali , Mehboob Hassan , Abdul Kadir Mohammed Rafiq , Abd Razak Saiful Izwan , Shah Saqlain A. , Iqbal Muhammad Zahir , Amin Rashid
Published: May 2021

Correction for ‘Development and in vitro evaluation of κ-carrageenan based polymeric hybrid nanocomposite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering’ by Muhammad Umar Aslam Khan et al., RSC Adv., 2020, 10, 40529–40542. DOI: 10.1039/D0RA07446B.
Correction: Curcumin encapsulation in Pickering emulsions co-stabilized by starch nanoparticles and chitin nanofibers
Authors: Lee Yeong-Sheng , Tarté Rodrigo , Acevedo Nuria C.
Published: May 2021

Correction for ‘Curcumin encapsulation in Pickering emulsions co-stabilized by starch nanoparticles and chitin nanofibers’ by Yeong-Sheng Lee et al., RSC Adv., 2021, 11, 16275–16284, DOI: 10.1039/D1RA01622A.
Correction: Synthesis and characterization of nanoceria for electrochemical sensing applications
Authors: Hartati Yeni Wahyuni , Topkaya Seda Nur , Gaffar Shabarni , Bahti Husein H. , Cetin Arif E.
Published: May 2021

Correction for ‘Synthesis and characterization of nanoceria for electrochemical sensing applications’ by Yeni Wahyuni Hartati et al., RSC Adv., 2021, 11, 16216–16235, DOI: 10.1039/D1RA00637A.
Thein situremoval of surface molybdenum oxide for making binder-free porous Mo1.98C1.02film a more efficient electrocatalyst for alkaline rather than acidic hydrogen production
Authors: Lv Cuncai , Yang Qianpeng , Xu Shichen , Yuan Ling , Huang Zhipeng , Ren Zhouhong , Luo Jun , Wang Shufang , Zhang Chi
Published: May 2021

A binder-free porous film of molybdenum carbide is synthesized by a facile approach, and exhibits superb performance in the alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction, producing a current density of 10 mA cm−2at an overpotential of 47 mV.
A single-stage partial oxidation of methane to methanol: a step forward in the synthesis of oxygenates
Authors: Chawdhury Piu , Bhargavi K. V. S. S. , Subrahmanyam C.
Published: May 2021

Glass beads enhance the strength of plasma while a metal oxide coating promotes the surface reaction of the active plasma species; hence, the combined model effectively converts methane to liquid oxygenates with the assistance of NTP-discharge.
Selenium tethered copper phthalocyanine hierarchical aggregates as electrochemical hydrogen evolution catalysts
Authors: Sakthinathan Indherjith , Mahendran Manivannan , Krishnan Karthik , Karuthapandi Selvakumar
Published: May 2021

Oxidative transformation of (n-OctSe)8CuPc in different solvent systems leads to the formation of hierarchically structured fibrous and particle aggregates that allow the HER to occur at a very low overpotential.
Degradable and processable polymer monoliths with open-pore porosity for selective CO2 and iodine adsorption
Authors: Avais Mohd , Kumari Sulbha , Chattopadhyay Subrata
Published: May 2021

A method is reported to prepare biodegradable and processable open pore porous polymer monolith via colloidal templating approach for the removal of gaseous pollutants such as CO2 and iodine.
Correction: Cation optimization for burn-in loss-free perovskite solar devices
Authors: Paek Sanghyun , Khan Sher Bahadar , Franckevičius Marius , Gegevičius Rokas , Syzgantseva Olga A. , Syzgantseva Maria A. , Kinge Sachin , Asiri Abdullah M. , Roldán-Carmona Cristina , Nazeeruddin Mohammed Khaja
Published: May 2021

Correction for ‘Cation optimization for burn-in loss-free perovskite solar devices’ by Sanghyun Paek et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021, 9, 5374–5380, DOI: 10.1039/D1TA00472G.
Development and Preliminary Evaluation of the Tinnitus Severity Short Form
Authors: Frumkin Madelyn R. , Kallogjeri Dorina , Piccirillo Jay F. , Beukes Eldre W. , Manchaiah Vinaya , Andersson Gerhard , Rodebaugh Thomas L.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Tinnitus, or the perception of sounds that occur without an external sound source, is a prevalent condition worldwide. For a subset of adults, tinnitus causes significant distress and impairment. Several patient-reported outcome measures have been developed to assess severity of tinnitus distress. However, at present, the field lacks a brief measure that is sensitive to treatment change. The purpose of the current study was to develop and preliminarily validate a brief questionnaire for tinnitus severity from two existing measures of tinnitus-related distress, the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) and Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI).

Method

Using data from nine study samples in the United States and United Kingdom, we conducted exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to identify a short measure with good psychometric properties. We also assessed sensitivity to treatment-related change by examining associations with change in the TFI and THI. Finally, we conducted a confirmatory factor analysis of the final short questionnaire in a new sample of adults seeking treatment for tinnitus-related distress.

Results

We identified 10 items from the THI and TFI that exhibited limited loadings on secondary factors. The resulting Tinnitus Severity Short Form achieved good to excellent fit, including in a unique sample of individuals seeking online treatment for tinnitus, and appeared sensitive to treatment-related change.

Conclusions

The Tinnitus Severity Short Form developed in the current study may be a useful tool for the assessment of subjective severity and distress associated with tinnitus, especially when patient burden is a concern. Further research is necessary to fully validate the questionnaire for the assessment of treatment-related change.
Orthographic Support for Word Learning in Clinical Populations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Clark Grace T. , Reuterskiöld Christina
Published: May 2021

Purpose

A systematic review was performed to determine the extent to which orthographic facilitation, a strategy to improve word learning, has been demonstrated in the literature for children and adolescents from clinical categories such as developmental language disorders (DLD), autism spectrum disorders (ASD), Down syndrome, dyslexia, hearing impairment, intellectual disability, and cerebral palsy.

Method

Five databases were searched for all studies published through December 2019. Eligible studies included participants from a clinical population (DLD, ASD, dyslexia, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, hearing impairment, etc.) and compared word learning with and without orthography. Selected studies were extracted for pertinent information. In addition, assessment of the methodological rigor was performed for each study.

Results

The review yielded five studies that targeted word learning with orthographic facilitation for children from various clinical populations including DLD, verbal children with autism, Down syndrome, and dyslexia. All studied populations showed a benefit for word learning in picture naming posttests when words were trained in the presence of orthography.

Conclusions

For the studied populations, training words in the presence of orthography will improve word learning accuracy and retention. The review highlights the need for more research in this area across other clinical populations.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.14632791
Fault diagnosis method based on multi‐source information fusion for weak interturn short circuit in synchronous condensers
Authors: Ma Minghan , He Pengkang , Li Yonggang , Li Hongshuo , Jiang Meng , Wu Yucai
Published: May 2021

The interturn short circuit fault in rotor windings is a common fault in a synchronous condenser. Aiming at the early faults that are difficult to detect, the theory of multi‐source information fusion is applied herein for the identification of short circuit faults in the rotor windings of a synchronous condenser. Firstly, a field‐circuit‐network coupling model of a synchronous condenser for high‐voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission was constructed using SIMULINK/ANSYS. The air gap magnetic flux density of the interturn short circuit regulator with a rotor winding was obtained, via co‐simulation, before and after the commutation failure in the HVDC inverter. Further, three‐dimensional models of the stator and rotor of the synchronous condenser were established using ANSYS/Workbench; the stator and rotor vibration responses of the synchronous condenser were monitored before and after the system commutation failure. Secondly, three types of evidence bodies were obtained based on the Dempster–Shafer evidence theory. The results show that the confidence level of the evidence body of each faulted component of the synchronous condenser increases, and the accuracy of fault recognition also increases upon system commutation failure. Finally, a three‐pair‐pole synchronous motor (MJF‐30‐6) was used to simulate the rated and overexcited operations of the synchronous condenser for experimental verification of the feasibility of the proposed method. This method provides a reference for the identification of weak interturn short circuit faults in synchronous condensers.
Key performance‐cost tradeoffs in smart electric vehicle charging with distributed generation
Authors: Heron John W. , Sun Hongjian , Alizadeh‐Mousavi Omid , Crossland Andrew
Published: May 2021

Growing penetration of Electric Vehicles (EV) and Distributed Generation (DG) is driving sharper peaks in demand and supply, which, if poorly managed, manifest as over‐ or undervoltage and disrupt grid service quality. Smart charging schemes reschedule EV charging load according to factors such as grid stability, price signals, etc. It remains unclear how to do this while meeting the diverging needs and expectations of multiple concerned participants. This paper proposes two smart charging schemes for secondary voltage control in the distribution network and analyses performance‐cost tradeoffs relating to key players in the Smart Grid. To support these schemes, a distributed communications architecture is designed that jointly minimises traffic burden, computation load and investment in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) hardware. Scheme I (Smart Curtailment), curtails load and DG for peak shaving. Scheme II (Smart Correction) optimises cost‐efficiency for subscribing users by maximising power transfer during off‐peak hours or when renewable energy is high. Performance of both schemes is consolidated statistically under almost 6 months of practical input profiles. Dramatic improvements in EV & DG capacity are demonstrated and key performance‐cost tradeoffs relating to Voltage Control, Peak Shaving, User Inconvenience, CO2 Emissions and ICT Deployment Cost are identified.
Multi-channel coronal hole detection with convolutional neural networks
Authors: Jarolim R. , Veronig A. M. , Hofmeister S. , Heinemann S. G. , Temmer M. , Podladchikova T. , Dissauer K.
Published: May 2021

Context.A precise detection of the coronal hole boundary is of primary interest for a better understanding of the physics of coronal holes, their role in the solar cycle evolution, and space weather forecasting.

Aims.We develop a reliable, fully automatic method for the detection of coronal holes that provides consistent full-disk segmentation maps over the full solar cycle and can perform in real-time.

Methods.We use a convolutional neural network to identify the boundaries of coronal holes from the seven extreme ultraviolet (EUV) channels of the Atmospheric Imaging Assembly (AIA) and from the line-of-sight magnetograms provided by the Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager (HMI) on board the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO). For our primary model (Coronal Hole RecOgnition Neural Network Over multi-Spectral-data; CHRONNOS) we use a progressively growing network approach that allows for efficient training, provides detailed segmentation maps, and takes into account relations across the full solar disk.

Results.We provide a thorough evaluation for performance, reliability, and consistency by comparing the model results to an independent manually curated test set. Our model shows good agreement to the manual labels with an intersection-over-union (IoU) of 0.63. From the total of 261 coronal holes with an area > 1.5 × 1010km2identified during the time-period from November 2010 to December 2016, 98.1% were correctly detected by our model. The evaluation over almost the full solar cycle no. 24 shows that our model provides reliable coronal hole detections independent of the level of solar activity. From a direct comparison over short timescales of days to weeks, we find that our model exceeds human performance in terms of consistency and reliability. In addition, we train our model to identify coronal holes from each channel separately and show that the neural network provides the best performance with the combined channel information, but that coronal hole segmentation maps can also be obtained from line-of-sight magnetograms alone.

Conclusions.The proposed neural network provides a reliable data set for the study of solar-cycle dependencies and coronal-hole parameters. Given the fast and robust coronal hole segmentation, the algorithm is also highly suitable for real-time space weather applications.
Real Time PCR detection ofMacrobrachium rosenbergii(de Man, 1879) larvae with emphasis to their ecology
Authors: Harikrishnan Mahadevan , Jose Deepak , Nidhin B. , Anilkumar K.P.
Published: May 2021

Species specific identification of early larval stages of many decapod crustaceans sampled from plankton collections remains cumbersome owing to lack of distinguishable characteristics, where DNA based molecular methods provide accurate results without taxonomic ambiguities. In the present study, an attempt was made to detect temporal occurrence of early zoea of freshwater prawnMacrobrachium rosenbergii(de Man) using real-time PCR assays in polyhaline, mesohaline and oligohaline areas of a tropical positive estuary, the Vembanad lake (S. India). High caridean larval abundance could be recorded in polyhaline areas in all seasons while it could be recorded in monsoon season in mesohaline and oligohaline areas. 113 DNA isolations were successfully made from morphologically identified taxonomic units (MOTU) and SYBR Green based RT-PCR amplifications using designed primer forM. rosenbergiiyielded positive detections in 38 samples (34%) representing all seasons in all three zones. Positive detections could be recorded in all months except May in mesohaline areas and differed significantly (F = 17.2 p < 0.01) with the same in polyhaline and oligohaline areas. The present results of molecular detection ofM. rosenbergiilarvae extend confirmation of its breeding ground in Vembanad lake where appropriate management strategies could be enforced for stock conservation of this species.
A priori estimates of the mass of the burnt materials in rooms of buildings in the integral mathematical model of the initial stage of the fire
Authors: Pavlidis Victoria , Fedorov Yury , Chkalova Marina , Suleymenova Rayslu
Published: May 2021

The integral mathematical model of the initial stage of a fire in the premises of buildings focuses on the problem of estimating the mass of burnt materials assuming that the data on the rate of combustion of combustible materials are not complete. A priori estimates of the mass of burnt materials are found, which do not use data on the combustible material combustion rate. To derive these estimates, a special representation of the modulus of the increment (fall) of oxygen density in a room with a fire in the initial stage was preliminarily found. Two approaches to the derivation of a priori estimates of the mass of burnt materials have been implemented - using the upper and lower estimates of the modulus of the increment (fall) of the oxygen density. A comparison of a priori estimates obtained with different approaches is performed. Research can be useful at assessment of ecological situation and consequences of the fire.
Motor vehicle unmanned driving technology enhancement
Authors: Zhuravleva Larisa
Published: May 2021

The relevance of the introduction of unmanned vehicles, the improvement of their control systems is increasing every year due to the ever-increasing volume of cargo transportation. The undoubted advantages of the developed direction are the reduction of the influence of the human factor, management errors, and, consequently, reduction of the number of accidents, as well as reduction of the transportation costs. The research was aimed to develop the algorithmic, programmatic control of an unmanned vehicle when transporting goods along a given route, in particular, when unmanned vehicles move in a convoy behind a pilot vehicle with a given distance along an arbitrary trajectory. The article discusses the control algorithm, technical means of the control system and the technical vision tracking system. The article presents the results of experimental studies of the movement of an unmanned vehicle based on a serial KamAZ 6520 vehicle.
Development of self-pollinated maize lines based on the teosinte collection of the N.I. Vavilov institute of plant industry (VIR)
Authors: Appaev Safar , Kagermazov Alan , Khachidogov Azamat , Bizhoev Murat , Khatefov Eduard
Published: May 2021

The decline in the genetic polymorphism in maize is a cause of concern for many breeders. VIR maize collection represents the world’s maize variety over the past 100 years. The results of the study of maize quantitative properties based on 169 samples from the VIR collection created with the teosinte are shown. KB 595 hybrid, which belongs to the late-season group and is prone to multi-cob was used as a standard. Sowing and evaluation of phenotypic traits were carried out for 2 years in the foothills of Kabardino-Balkaria, in conditions of sufficient soil moisture, in the optimal time. All measurements were carried out on 10 plants with average values of 2 years and an LSD0.05. The results of the research allocated a core collection of 21 samples that promising for hybrid maize breeding and are characterized by significant height and leafiness of the stem, as well as a tendency to form 2 or more cobs on one stem. It has been suggested that the involvement of the selected core collection of 21 samples in thybrid maize breeding programs will significantly expand its genetic polymorphism and increase grain yield in hybrid combinations.
Mathematical model for calculating the parameters of machines for processing near-trunk strips in a terrace
Authors: Apazhev Aslan , Egozhev Artur , Misirov Magomed , Polishchuk Evgeny , Egozhev Asker
Published: May 2021

Horticulture is one of the most dynamically developing branches of agricultural production. In recent years, in the Russian Federation, there has been an annual increase in the area for gardens, including on sloping lands, gross harvest and good yield. In the conditions of the foothill zone of the North Caucasus, the most promising direction is the development of slope lands, with favorable soil and climatic conditions for the cultivation of fruit crops. The design features of the terraces impose restrictions on the operating conditions of agricultural units, among the many it is necessary to emphasize the possibility of approaching the row line for processing the near-trunk circle from only one side. Most of the horticultural businesses have mainly equipment designed for work in flat gardening conditions, which for complete processing requires the passage of the unit along each side of the row line that cannot be provided in terraces. A design technology scheme of the machine working tool is proposed, the technical result of which lies in the performance of a high-quality processing in the zone of the near-trunk circle by ensuring the bypass of rotors with cutting segments around the tree trunk, without its damaging, in one passage of the unit along the row line.
The use of chickpea flour in the minced meat products formula
Authors: Dzhaboeva Amina , Byazrova Olesya , Tedtova Victoria , Baeva Zarina , Kokaeva Marina
Published: May 2021

The goal of the research was to substantiate the possibility of using various doses of chickpea flour in the recipe for the “Chopped Beefsteak” instead of beef to improve its consumer and protective properties. Taking into account the functional and technological properties and organoleptic characteristics of various minced meat models, the most optimal dose of including chopped chickpea flour in the formulation of semi-finished steak is 5.0% to the mass of minced meat. To assess the consumer qualities of the compared samples of the “Chopped beefsteak” dish with the addition of chickpea flour in a dosage of 5% to the mass of minced meat, technological charts were drawn up on the basis of recipe No. 604. When chickpea flour was included in the amount of 5.0% to the mass of minced meat, the consumer characteristics of the finished product were improved. Was found, that chickpea flour is a valuable dietary product, it is distinguished by high taste and health characteristics.