bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review and comparison of breast tumor cell nuclei segmentation performances using deep convolutional neural networks
Authors: Lagree Andrew , Mohebpour Majidreza , Meti Nicholas , Saednia Khadijeh , Lu Fang-I. , Slodkowska Elzbieta , Gandhi Sonal , Rakovitch Eileen , Shenfield Alex , Sadeghi-Naini Ali , Tran William T.
Published: April 2021

Breast cancer is currently the second most common cause of cancer-related death in women. Presently, the clinical benchmark in cancer diagnosis is tissue biopsy examination. However, the manual process of histopathological analysis is laborious, time-consuming, and limited by the quality of the specimen and the experience of the pathologist. This study's objective was to determine if deep convolutional neural networks can be trained, with transfer learning, on a set of histopathological images independent of breast tissue to segment tumor nuclei of the breast. Various deep convolutional neural networks were evaluated for the study, including U-Net, Mask R-CNN, and a novel network (GB U-Net). The networks were trained on a set of Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E)-stained images of eight diverse types of tissues. GB U-Net demonstrated superior performance in segmenting sites of invasive diseases (AJI = 0.53, mAP = 0.39 & AJI = 0.54, mAP = 0.38), validated on two hold-out datasets exclusively containing breast tissue images of approximately 7,582 annotated cells. The results of the networks, trained on images independent of breast tissue, demonstrated that tumor nuclei of the breast could be accurately segmented.
A multiparametric extraction method for Vn96-isolated plasma extracellular vesicles and cell-free DNA that enables multi-omic profiling
Authors: Roy Jeremy W. , Taylor Catherine A. , Beauregard Annie P. , Dhadi Surendar R. , Ayre D. Craig , Fry Sheena , Chacko Simi , Wajnberg Gabriel , Joy Andrew P. , Mai-Thi Ngoc-Nu , Crapoulet Nicolas , Barnett David A. , Ghosh Anirban , Lewis Stephen M. , Ouellette Rodney J.
Published: April 2021

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been recognized as a rich material for the analysis of DNA, RNA, and protein biomarkers. A remaining challenge for the deployment of EV-based diagnostic and prognostic assays in liquid biopsy testing is the development of an EV isolation method that is amenable to a clinical diagnostic lab setting and is compatible with multiple types of biomarker analyses. We have previously designed a synthetic peptide, known as Vn96 (ME kit), which efficiently isolates EVs from multiple biofluids in a short timeframe without the use of specialized lab equipment. Moreover, it has recently been shown that Vn96 also facilitates the co-isolation of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) along with EVs. Herein we describe an optimized method for Vn96 affinity-based EV and cfDNA isolation from plasma samples and have developed a multiparametric extraction protocol for the sequential isolation of DNA, RNA, and protein from the same plasma EV and cfDNA sample. We are able to isolate sufficient material by the multiparametric extraction protocol for use in downstream analyses, including ddPCR (DNA) and ‘omic profiling by both small RNA sequencing (RNA) and mass spectrometry (protein), from a minimum volume (4 mL) of plasma. This multiparametric extraction protocol should improve the ability to analyse multiple biomarker materials (DNA, RNA and protein) from the same limited starting material, which may improve the sensitivity and specificity of liquid biopsy tests that exploit EV-based and cfDNA biomarkers for disease detection and monitoring.
A model of processive walking and slipping of kinesin-8 molecular motors
Authors: Xie Ping
Published: April 2021

Kinesin-8 molecular motor can move with superprocessivity on microtubules towards the plus end by hydrolyzing ATP molecules, depolymerizing microtubules. The available single molecule data for yeast kinesin-8 (Kip3) motor showed that its superprocessive movement is frequently interrupted by brief stick–slip motion. Here, a model is presented for the chemomechanical coupling of the kinesin-8 motor. On the basis of the model, the dynamics of Kip3 motor is studied analytically. The analytical results reproduce quantitatively the available single molecule data on velocity without including the slip and that with including the slip versus external load at saturating ATP as well as slipping velocity versus external load at saturating ADP and no ATP. Predicted results on load dependence of stepping ratio at saturating ATP and load dependence of velocity at non-saturating ATP are provided. Similarities and differences between dynamics of kinesin-8 and that of kinesin-1 are discussed.
Very low-density lipoprotein receptor increases in a liver-specific manner due to protein deficiency but does not affect fatty liver in mice
Authors: Oshio Yui , Hattori Yuta , Kamata Hatsuho , Ozaki-Masuzawa Yori , Seki Arisa , Tsuruta Yasutaka , Takenaka Asako
Published: April 2021

Very low-density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR) is a member of the LDL receptor family that is involved in the uptake of VLDL into cells. Increased hepatic VLDLR under endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress has been shown to cause fatty liver. In this study, the effect of dietary protein restriction on hepatic VLDLR and the role of VLDLR in fatty liver were investigated using Vldlr knockout (KO) mice. Growing wild-type (WT) and KO mice were fed a control diet containing 20% ​​protein or a low protein diet containing 3% protein for 11 days. In WT mice, the amount of hepatic Vldlr mRNA and VLDLR protein increased by approximately 8- and 7-fold, respectively, due to protein restriction. Vldlr mRNA and protein levels increased in both type 1 and type 2 VLDLR. However, neither Vldlr mRNA nor protein levels were significantly increased in heart, muscle, and adipose tissue, demonstrating that VLDLR increase due to protein restriction occurred in a liver-specific manner. Increased liver triglyceride levels during protein restriction occurred in KO mice to the same extent as in WT mice, indicating that increased VLDLR during protein restriction was not the main cause of fatty liver, which was different from the case of ER stress.
Chemotherapy confers a conserved secondary tolerance to EGFR inhibition via AXL-mediated signaling bypass
Authors: Aldonza Mark Borris D. , Reyes Roben D. Delos , Kim Young Seo , Ku Jayoung , Barsallo Ana Melisa , Hong Ji-Young , Lee Sang Kook , Ryu Han Suk , Park YongKeun , Cho Je-Yoel , Kim Yoosik
Published: April 2021

Drug resistance remains the major culprit of therapy failure in disseminated cancers. Simultaneous resistance to multiple, chemically different drugs feeds this failure resulting in cancer relapse. Here, we investigate co-resistance signatures shared between antimitotic drugs (AMDs) and inhibitors of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) to probe mechanisms of secondary resistance. We map co-resistance ranks in multiple drug pairs and identified a more widespread occurrence of co-resistance to the EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) gefitinib in hundreds of cancer cell lines resistant to at least 11 AMDs. By surveying different parameters of genomic alterations, we find that the two RTKs EGFR and AXL displayed similar alteration and expression signatures. Using acquired paclitaxel and epothilone B resistance as first-line AMD failure models, we show that a stable collateral resistance to gefitinib can be relayed by entering a dynamic, drug-tolerant persister state where AXL acts as bypass signal. Delayed AXL degradation rendered this persistence to become stably resistant. We probed this degradation process using a new EGFR-TKI candidate YD and demonstrated that AXL bypass-driven collateral resistance can be suppressed pharmacologically. The findings emphasize that AXL bypass track is employed by chemoresistant cancer cells upon EGFR inhibition to enter a persister state and evolve resistance to EGFR-TKIs.
Methane emissions from upstream oil and gas production in Canada are underestimated
Authors: MacKay Katlyn , Lavoie Martin , Bourlon Evelise , Atherton Emmaline , O’Connell Elizabeth , Baillie Jennifer , Fougère Chelsea , Risk David
Published: April 2021

Methane emissions were measured at 6650 sites across six major oil and gas producing regions in Canada to examine regional emission trends, and to derive an inventory estimate for Canada’s upstream oil and gas sector. Emissions varied by fluid type and geographic region, with the heavy oil region of Lloydminster ranking highest on both absolute and intensity-based scales. Emission intensities varied widely for natural gas production, where older, low-producing developments such as Medicine Hat, Alberta showed high emission intensities, and newer developments in Montney, British Columbia showed emission intensities that are amongst the lowest in North America.Overall, we estimate that the Canadian upstream oil and gas methane inventory is underestimated by a factor of 1.5, which is consistent with previous studies of individual regions.
Synthesis of Ni2P/CdS and Pt/TiO2 nanocomposite for photoreduction of CO2 into methanol
Authors: Nagababu Penumaka , Ahmed Sehba Anjum Mumtaz , Prabhu Y. Taraka , kularkar Ankush , Bhowmick Subhamoy , Rayalu Sadhana S.
Published: April 2021

It is a great challenge to convert thermochemically stable CO2 into value-added products such as CH4, CH3OH, CO via utilizing solar energy. It is also a difficult task to develop an efficient catalyst for the reduction of CO2. We have designed and synthesized noble metal-free photocatalytic nanostructure Ni2P/CdS and Pt/TiO2 for conversion of CO2 to methanol in the presence of sacrificial donor triethylamine (TEA) and hydrogen peroxide. The synthesised catalysts physicochemical properties were studied by using several spectroscopic techniques like; XRD, UV-DRS, XPS, TEM, SEM and PL. Quantification of methanol by GC–MS showed encouraging results of 1424.8 and 2843 μmol g−1 of catalyst for Pt/TiO2 and 5 wt% Ni2P/CdS composites, respectively. Thus, Ni2P/CdS is a promising catalyst with higher productivity and significant selectivity than in-vogue catalysts.
Neutron flux evaluation model provided in the accelerator-based boron neutron capture therapy system employing a solid-state lithium target
Authors: Nakamura Satoshi , Igaki Hiroshi , Ito Masashi , Imamichi Shoji , Kashihara Tairo , Okamoto Hiroyuki , Nishioka Shie , Iijima Kotaro , Chiba Takahito , Nakayama Hiroki , Takemori Mihiro , Abe Yoshihisa , Kaneda Tomoya , Takahashi Kana , Inaba Koji , Okuma Kae , Murakami Naoya , Nakayama Yuko , Masutani Mitsuko , Nishio Teiji , Itami Jun
Published: April 2021

An accelerator-based boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) system employing a solid-state Li target can achieve sufficient neutron flux for treatment although the neutron flux is reduced over the lifetime of its target. In this study, the reduction was examined in the five targets, and a model was then established to represent the neutron flux. In each target, a reduction in neutron flux was observed based on the integrated proton charge on the target, and its reduction reached 28% after the integrated proton charge of 2.52 × 106 mC was delivered to the target in the system. The calculated neutron flux acquired by the model was compared to the measured neutron flux based on an integrated proton charge, and the mean discrepancies were less than 0.1% in all the targets investigated. These discrepancies were comparable among the five targets examined. Thus, the reduction of the neutron flux can be represented by the model. Additionally, by adequately revising the model, it may be applicable to other BNCT systems employing a Li target, thus furthering research in this direction. Therefore, the established model will play an important role in the accelerator-based BNCT system with a solid-state Li target in controlling neutron delivery and understanding the neutron output characteristics.
Investigations on the potential of optical coherence tomography as an imaging tool for eustachian tube
Authors: Sun Xiao-Mei , Luo Jia-Qi , Xiao Zhi-Wen , Gu Qing-Yu , Lan Lin-Chan , Zhang Hui-Qing , Zhang Guan-Ping
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this study was to explore the feasibility of eustachian tube optical coherence tomography (ET-OCT) for imaging the pharyngeal region of the eustachian tube (ET). Ten subjects with ear complaints underwent ET-OCT guided by nasal endoscopy, and ET-OCT examination was performed on both sides of each subject's ETs. The process and resulting images were analysed. Ten subjects ranging from 21 to 73 years old (45 ± 14.77) were enrolled in this study. Eighteen ET-OCT imaging examinations were completed. The mean duration of each examination was 2.80 ± 1.62 min (ranging from 2 to 7 min). There were no adverse events or complications. In some subjects, the ET-OCT images clearly presented the microstructures of the ET wall, including the lumen, mucosa, submucosa, cartilage and plica. However, in some subjects, it showed different characteristics, such as an unclear hierarchy and secretions in the lumen. ET-OCT may help to distinguish the structural composition of the ET and elucidate related pathophysiological mechanisms. It is a valuable imaging tool suited for the ET, with potential diagnostic value in determining the morphology of the lumen, intraluminal mucosa and submucosal tissue in the pharyngeal region of the ET.
Publisher Correction: Characterization and carbon mineralization of biochars produced from different animal manures and plant residues
Authors: Sarfaraz Qamar , da Silva Leandro Souza , Drescher Gerson Laerson , Zafar Mohsin , Severo Fabiane Figueiredo , Kokkonen Allan , Dal Molin Gustavo , Shafi Muhammad Izhar , Shafique Qudsia , Solaiman Zakaria M.
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Continuity of chronic predation risk determines changes in prey physiology
Authors: Jermacz Łukasz , Kletkiewicz Hanna , Nowakowska Anna , Dzierżyńska-Białończyk Anna , Klimiuk Maciej , Kobak Jarosław
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: An emerging consensus in palaeoanthropology: demography was the main factor responsible for the disappearance of Neanderthals
Authors: Vaesen Krist , Dusseldorp Gerrit L. , Brandt Mark J.
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Experimental and computation assessment of thermomechanical effects during auxetic foam fabrication
Authors: Critchley Richard , Smy Victoria , Corni Ilaria , Wharton Julian A. , Walsh Frank C. , Wood Robert J. K. , Stokes Keith R.
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Hydrochar did not reduce rice paddy NH3 volatilization compared to pyrochar in a soil column experiment
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , Cheng Yueqin , Liu Yang , Chen Danyan , Chen Yin , Wang Yueman
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Catechin and curcumin interact with S protein of SARS-CoV2 and ACE2 of human cell membrane: insights from computational studies
Authors: Jena Atala B. , Kanungo Namrata , Nayak Vinayak , Chainy G. B. N. , Dandapat Jagneshwar
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Heme controls the structural rearrangement of its sensor protein mediating the hemolytic bacterial survival
Authors: Nishinaga Megumi , Sugimoto Hiroshi , Nishitani Yudai , Nagai Seina , Nagatoishi Satoru , Muraki Norifumi , Tosha Takehiko , Tsumoto Kouhei , Aono Shigetoshi , Shiro Yoshitsugu , Sawai Hitomi
Published: April 2021

Hemes (iron-porphyrins) are critical for biological processes in all organisms. Hemolytic bacteria survive by acquiring b-type heme from hemoglobin in red blood cells from their animal hosts. These bacteria avoid the cytotoxicity of excess heme during hemolysis by expressing heme-responsive sensor proteins that act as transcriptional factors to regulate the heme efflux system in response to the cellular heme concentration. Here, the underlying regulatory mechanisms were investigated using crystallographic, spectroscopic, and biochemical studies to understand the structural basis of the heme-responsive sensor protein PefR from Streptococcus agalactiae, a causative agent of neonatal life-threatening infections. Structural comparison of heme-free PefR, its complex with a target DNA, and heme-bound PefR revealed that unique heme coordination controls a >20 Å structural rearrangement of the DNA binding domains to dissociate PefR from the target DNA. We also found heme-bound PefR stably binds exogenous ligands, including carbon monoxide, a by-product of the heme degradation reaction.
Variation in personality can substitute for social feedback in coordinated animal movements
Authors: Planas-Sitjà Isaac , Deneubourg Jean-Louis , Cronin Adam L.
Published: April 2021

Collective movements are essential for the effective function of animal societies, but are complicated by the need for consensus among group members. Consensus is typically assumed to arise via feedback mechanisms, but this ignores inter-individual variation in behavioural tendency (‘personality’), which is known to underpin the successful function of many complex societies. In this study, we use a theoretical approach to examine the relative importance of personality and feedback in the emergence of collective movement decisions in animal groups. Our results show that variation in personality dramatically influences collective decisions and can partially or completely replace feedback depending on the directionality of relationships among individuals. The influence of personality increases with the exaggeration of differences among individuals. While it is likely that both feedback and personality interact in nature, our findings highlight the potential importance of personality in driving collective processes.
Acylation of agricultural protein biomass yields biodegradable superabsorbent plastics
Authors: Capezza Antonio J. , Muneer Faraz , Prade Thomas , Newson William R. , Das Oisik , Lundman Malin , Olsson Richard T. , Hedenqvist Mikael S. , Johansson Eva
Published: April 2021

Superabsorbent polymers (SAP) are a central component of hygiene and medical products requiring high liquid swelling, but these SAP are commonly derived from petroleum resources. Here, we show that sustainable and biodegradable SAP can be produced by acylation of the agricultural potato protein side-stream (PPC) with a non-toxic dianhydride (EDTAD). Treatment of the PPC yields a material with a water swelling capacity of ca. 2400%, which is ten times greater than the untreated PPC. Acylation was also performed on waste potato fruit juice (PFJ), i.e. before the industrial treatment to precipitate the PPC. The use of PFJ for the acylation implies a saving of 320 000 tons as CO2 in greenhouse gas emissions per year by avoiding the industrial drying of the PFJ to obtain the PPC. The acylated PPC shows biodegradation and resistance to mould growth. The possibilities to produce a biodegradable SAP from the PPC allows for future fabrication of environment-friendly and disposable daily-care products, e.g. diapers and sanitary pads.
Temperature chaos is present in off-equilibrium spin-glass dynamics
Authors: Baity-Jesi Marco , Calore Enrico , Cruz Andrés , Fernandez Luis Antonio , Gil-Narvion José Miguel , Gonzalez-Adalid Pemartin Isidoro , Gordillo-Guerrero Antonio , Iñiguez David , Maiorano Andrea , Marinari Enzo , Martin-Mayor Víctor , Moreno-Gordo Javier , Muñoz-Sudupe Antonio , Navarro Denis , Paga Ilaria , Parisi Giorgio , Perez-Gaviro Sergio , Ricci-Tersenghi Federico , Ruiz-Lorenzo Juan Jesús , Schifano Sebastiano Fabio , Seoane Beatriz , Tarancon Alfonso , Tripiccione Raffaele , Yllanes David
Published: April 2021

Experiments featuring non-equilibrium glassy dynamics under temperature changes still await interpretation. There is a widespread feeling that temperature chaos (an extreme sensitivity of the glass to temperature changes) should play a major role but, up to now, this phenomenon has been investigated solely under equilibrium conditions. In fact, the very existence of a chaotic effect in the non-equilibrium dynamics is yet to be established. In this article, we tackle this problem through a large simulation of the 3D Edwards-Anderson model, carried out on the Janus II supercomputer. We find a dynamic effect that closely parallels equilibrium temperature chaos. This dynamic temperature-chaos effect is spatially heterogeneous to a large degree and turns out to be controlled by the spin-glass coherence length ξ. Indeed, an emerging length-scale ξ* rules the crossover from weak (at ξ ≪ ξ*) to strong chaos (ξ ≫ ξ*). Extrapolations of ξ* to relevant experimental conditions are provided.
Novel Detection Approaches to Tackle the Challenges of Complex Matrices for Alternative Drugs and New Psychoactive Substances
Authors: Brown K. , Dennany L.
Published: April 2021

This chapter focuses on the challenges faced by forensic practitioners in regard to the detection of novel psychoactive substances. With the ever-evolving nature of these substances it has become clear that the long-established methods employed for the detection of traditional illicit drugs are not translatable to this new drug trend. As such the forensic community is required to adapt these protocols and consider alternative techniques. This chapter aims to highlight some of these alternative techniques and discuss the advantages they can offer alongside their current limitations, with a particular focus upon detection in complex matrices.
Challenges in the Analysis of Toxicological Samples
Authors: Hamnett H. J. , Russell S. , Baginski S.
Published: April 2021

This chapter examines some of the existing and new challenges for forensic toxicologists analysing biological fluids for drugs, alcohol and poisons. In recent years there have been impressive advances in instrumentation, which have enabled toxicology laboratories to make more sensitive measurements and analyse new types of samples, drugs, inhalants and also some endogenous biomarkers. This has brought new interpretation challenges, including analytical uncertainty, and has all had to be achieved whilst working to updated accreditation and quality standards.
Fingermarks
Authors: de Puit Marcel , van Helmond Ward
Published: April 2021

Fingermarks are traditionally used for individualisation purposes in a criminal investigation and as evidence in the courts. In the past few decades we have seen a wide variety of novel visualisation methods being explored. Moreover, there has been an enormous increase in the technological possibilities for the chemical analysis and imaging of fingermarks. These developments have a profound implication for criminal investigations. In this chapter the highlights of the challenges in detection of fingermarks will be discussed.
Interpretative Challenges for Forensic Chemistry
Authors: Houck M. M.
Published: April 2021

Forensic chemistry is very similar to analytical chemistry but it differs in several ways, one of which is where its samples come from and how to accurately interpret those samples particularly when trying to determine if they have come from the same source. This chapter discusses fundamental factors, including supply chains, the comparative process, and sampling, that may affect interpretation of forensic chemistry samples.
Hybrid Likelihood Ratio Models for Forensic Applications: a Novel Solution to Determine the Evidential Value of Physicochemical Data
Authors: Martyna A. , Zadora G.
Published: April 2021

In an era of rapid advancement in analytical techniques the amount of data that needs to be properly processed increases. According to the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes, a proper interpretation of data for forensic applications should be embedded in a likelihood ratio (LR) framework. The method clearly reflects the role of the forensic expert in the process of evidence evaluation. The concept involves analysis of the evidence data in the context of two adversative hypotheses, e.g. the sample recovered from the suspect's clothing and the sample collected from the crime scene may have come from the same object (H1), or not (H2). The LR model evaluates the similarity between the samples, the frequency of observing their data and typical variability within and between such samples in the population to indicate which of the hypotheses is more likely. The chapter focuses on hybrid LR models, which were developed to bypass the infeasibility of training LR models for datasets with more variables than samples. They are constructed for a limited number of variables derived from chemometric techniques that effectively reduce data dimensionality, enhance the differences between samples in the training set and reduce the variance within them for improving the performance of LR models.
Increased hole mobility in anti-ThCr2Si2-type La2O2Bi co-sintered with alkaline earth metal oxides for oxygen intercalation and hole carrier doping
Authors: Matsumoto Kota , Kawasoko Hideyuki , Kimura Noriaki , Fukumura Tomoteru
Published: April 2021

La2O2Bi co-sintered with alkaline earth oxides showed higher hole mobility than ever due to effective oxygen intercalation. SrO also served as a hole dopant.
Nanocosm: a well plate photobioreactor for environmental and biotechnological studies
Authors: Volpe Charlotte , Vadstein Olav , Andersen Geir , Andersen Tom
Published: April 2021

A versatile LED based miniature photobioreactor ideal for factorial experiments that allows simultaneous testing of a wide range of variables and experimental combinations needed for high-throughput screening analysis.
Manipulation of up-conversion emission in NaYF4core@shell nanoparticles doped by Er3+, Tm3+, or Yb3+ions by excitation wavelength—three ions—plenty of possibilities
Authors: Grzyb Tomasz , Kamiński Piotr , Przybylska Dominika , Tymiński Artur , Sanz-Rodríguez F. , Haro Gonzalez Patricia
Published: April 2021

Core@shell nanoparticles showing up-conversion under 808, 975, 1208 or 1532 nm excitation were synthesised. Nanoparticles revealed their multifunctionality and emission bands covering the visible to near-infrared range (475 to 1625 nm).
Concentrated small extracellular vesicles from menstrual blood-derived stromal cells improve intrauterine adhesion, a pre-clinical study in a rat model
Authors: Zhang Siwen , Chang Qiyuan , Li Pingping , Tong Xiaoyu , Feng Yi , Hao Xinyao , Zhang Xudong , Yuan Zhengwei , Tan Jichun
Published: April 2021

MenSCs-sEVs safely and effectively enhanced endometrial restoration, suggesting a promising non-cellular therapy for endometrial regeneration and a key role in MenSC-mediated IUA treatment.
A novel light-controlled colorimetric detection assay for nitroreductase based onp-aminophenol-catalyzed and NADH-mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Bo-Wen , Huang Peng-Cheng , Wu Fang-Ying
Published: April 2021

A novel and efficient light-controlled colorimetric assay for the quantification and detection of nitroreductase (NTR) was constructed based onp-aminophenol (pAP)-catalyzed and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)-mediated generation of AgNPs. Due to the hydrolysis ofp-nitrophenol by NTR in the presence of NADH, the hydrolysis product can be used as a catalyst to catalyze the reduction of Ag+by NADH under the light.
A mitochondria-targeted near-infrared fluorescent probe for imaging viscosity in living cells and a diabetic mice model
Authors: Chen Bochao , Mao Shumei , Sun Yanyan , Sun Liyuan , Ding Ning , Li Chengde , Zhou Jin
Published: April 2021

A mitochondria-targeted near-infrared fluorescent probe NIR-V with 700 nm emission was designed to monitor cell viscosity changes, which was applied to detect the intracellular viscosity and imagine pancreatic tissue in diabetic mouse model.
Room-temperature ferromagnetism in two-dimensional transition metal borides: a first-principles investigation
Authors: Dou Min , Li Huan , Yao Qingnian , Wang Jiabao , Liu Yunfei , Wu Fang
Published: April 2021

Both CrB and FeB monolayers are FM metals with a moderate magnetic anisotropy energy by saturation with functional groups, which indicates that the 2D transition metal borides have great potential application in information storage devices.
Effects of doping high-valence transition metal (V, Nb and Zr) ions on the structure and electrochemical performance of LIB cathode material LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2
Authors: Chen Yan-Hui , Zhang Jing , Li Yi , Zhang Yong-Fan , Huang Shu-Ping , Lin Wei , Chen Wen-Kai
Published: April 2021

Based on the DFT study, V5+ doping in NCM811 facilitates Li-ion diffusion and mitigates Ni oxidation efficiently.
ReaxFF reactive molecular dynamics simulations to study the interfacial dynamics between defective h-BN nanosheets and water nanodroplets
Authors: Verma Akarsh , Zhang Weiwei , van Duin Adri C. T.
Published: April 2021

In this work, the authors have developed a reactive force field (ReaxFF) and performed molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the effect of water molecules on the interfacial interactions with vacancy defective hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) nanosheets.
Rational design of monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide@fullerene van der Waals photovoltaic heterojunctions with time-domain density functional theory simulations
Authors: Zhou Hong-Jun , Xu Dong-Hui , Yang Qing-Hong , Liu Xiang-Yang , Cui Ganglong , Li Laicai
Published: April 2021

Herein, DFT and TDDFT methods are used to evaluate the potential photovoltaic performances of several manually constructed transition metal dichalcogenide@fullerene van der Waals heterojunctions.
Unexpected formation of ansa isomers enabled by phosphazene ring flexibility in the reactions of cyclotetraphosphazene with 1,2-ethanediol
Authors: Palabıyık Duygu , Mutlu Balcı Ceylan , Allen Christopher W. , Beşli Serap
Published: April 2021

The skeletal structure of cyclotetraphosphazene (PN)4 has changed from chair to boat conformation according to the substitution number of 1,2-ethanediol.
Keggin-type polyoxometalate 1 : 1 complexes of Pb(ii) and Bi(iii): experimental, theoretical and luminescence studies
Authors: Mukhacheva Anna A. , Asanova Tatiana , Ryzhikov Maxim R. , Sukhikh Taisiya S. , Kompankov Nikolay B. , Yanshole Vadim V. , Berezin Alexey S. , Gushchin Artem L. , Abramov Pavel A. , Sokolov Maxim N.
Published: April 2021

Bi3+ and Pb2+ can be coordinated by a monolacunary Keggin-type [PW11O39]7− anion producing photoluminescent naked [PW11O39Bi]4− and [PW11O39Pb]5− anions.
Lewis acidic zinc(ii) salen-type Schiff-base complexes: sensing properties and responsive nanostructures
Authors: Di Bella Santo
Published: April 2021

The Lewis acidic character in Zn(salen)-type Schiff-base complexes confers peculiar characteristics as responsive molecular materials.
A new amido-phosphane as ligand for copper and silver complexes. Synthesis, characterization and catalytic application for azide–alkyne cycloaddition in glycerol
Authors: Mahmoud Abdallah G. , Guedes da Silva M. Fátima C. , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: April 2021

Copper and silver complexes bearing a novel amido-phosphane ligand and their application as catalysts for azide–alkyne cycloaddition in glycerol.
Comparing the greenness and sustainability of three routes to an HIV protease inhibitor intermediate
Authors: Akakios Stephanie Gina , Bode Moira Leanne , Sheldon Roger Arthur
Published: April 2021

The greenness and sustainability of three different routes for the synthesis of an advanced intermediate for a group of HIV protease inhibitors used in antiretroviral (ARV) therapy are compared.
pH response of a hydroxyl-functionalized luminescent metal–organic framework based phosphor
Authors: Hui Sayani , Majee Prakash , Singha Debal Kanti , Daga Pooja , Mondal Sudip Kumar , Mahata Partha
Published: April 2021

The ligand sensitized Tb3+ centered emission of Tb-doped Y-based hydroxyl functionalized MOFs has been utilized for pH sensing in the visible range.
A novel triple aqua-, phenoxo- and carboxylato-bridged dinickel(ii) complex, its magnetic properties, and comparative biomimetic catalytic studies with analogous dinickel(ii) complexes
Authors: Jana Narayan Ch. , Jagličić Zvonko , Brandão Paula , Adak Sarmistha , Saha Amrita , Panja Anangamohan
Published: April 2021

A unique triply bridged dinickel(ii) complex and two doubly bridged dinickel(ii) complexes are reported, and their magnetic properties and comparative biomimetic catalytic performances are studied.
Tuning the ligand field in seven-coordinate Dy(iii) complexes to perturb single-ion magnet behavior
Authors: Zhang Chunyang , Cheng Zhijie , Tan Pengfei , Lv Wei , Cui Huihui , Chen Lei , Cai Xingwei , Zhao Yuyuan , Yuan Aihua
Published: April 2021

Two mononuclear seven-coordinate Dy(iii) complexes with different strengths of ligand fields exhibit different slow magnetic relaxations.
The detection of chymotrypsin using peptides covalent bound to the surface of graphene oxide and gold nanoparticles
Authors: Gao Li , Shi Haixia , Liu Cheng , Xia Ni , Cheng Jia , Liu Lei
Published: April 2021

In this study, pyrene was used as a fluorescent dye for peptides.
Heterodinuclear [Co-Ln] complexes of semicarbazide-arm bearing ligand: synthesis from the cleavage of starting [Co-Co] complex, structures and magnetic properties
Authors: Biswas Mousumi , Basak Dipmalya , Sañudo E. Carolina , Ray Debashis
Published: April 2021

Cleavage of a [Co-Co] precursor by an anionic form of 1-(2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene)semicarbazide in the presence of Ln(NO)3·nH2O salts provided new dinuclear [Co-Ln] complexes from a single-ligand anion support and scrambling of pivalate ions.
Versatile graphene oxide nanosheetsviacovalent functionalization and their applications
Authors: Park Minju , Kim Namhee , Lee Jiyoung , Gu Minsu , Kim Byeong-Su
Published: April 2021

This review focuses on the covalent functionalization of GO and presents various strategies to control its dispersibility, conductivity, and catalytic activity toward potential applications.
The precise synthesis of twin-born Fe3O4/FeS/carbon nanosheets for high-rate lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Ma Linlin , Hou Baoxiu , Shang Ningzhao , Zhang Shuaihua , Wang Chun , Zong Lingbo , Song Jianjun , Wang Jiangyan , Zhao Xiaoxian
Published: April 2021

Metal oxides/sulfides have been considered as promising anode candidates for use in next-generation lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), but the large volume changes and poor electron and ion conductivities limit their practical applications.
Chiral lithium amide mediated desymmetrization of 3-substituted cyclobutanone
Authors: Zhong Changxu , Wang Shaowei , Lu Ping
Published: April 2021

A practical approach to access enantioenriched cyclobutenes was developed via a chiral lithium amide mediated deprotonation of 3-substituted cyclobutanones. Further elaborations led to stereoselective assembly of tricyclic skeletons.
A study of starch content detection and the visualization of fresh-cut potato based on hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Wang Fuxiang , Wang Chunguang , Song Shiyong
Published: April 2021

The starch content of fresh-cut potato chips was detected via hyperspectral imaging, and a representation of the visual distribution of the starch content was realized.
Electric control of ionic transport in sub-nm nanopores
Authors: Ji Anping , Chen Yunfei
Published: April 2021

The ion transport behavior through sub-nm nanopores (length (L) ≈ radius (R)) on a film is different from that in nanochannels (L ≫ R), and even more different from the bulk behavior.
Design of new bioinspired GO-COOH decorated alginate/gelatin hybrid scaffolds with nanofibrous architecture: structural, mechanical and biological investigations
Authors: Ghitman Jana , Biru Elena Iuliana , Cojocaru Elena , Pircalabioru Gratiela Gradisteanu , Vasile Eugeniu , Iovu Horia
Published: April 2021

The study deals with the design and investigation of bioinspired and biocompatible GO-COOH decorated hybrid polymeric scaffolds with nanofibrous architecture as biomaterials with appropriate features for functional restoration of damaged tissue.
Recent approaches in the organocatalytic synthesis of pyrroles
Authors: Borah Biplob , Dwivedi Kartikey Dhar , Chowhan L. Raju
Published: April 2021

Recent advances for the synthesis of pyrroles by employing organocatalysis are summarized in this review article.
Ratchet-like mechanism in a long-life photoproduct of salicylideneaniline enclathrated in a pillared-layer guanidinium disulfonate structure
Authors: Nakayama Kentaro , Manako Taisuke , Koibuchi Ryo , Yoshikawa Isao , Houjou Hirohiko
Published: April 2021

A certain molecular environment in a hydrogen-bonded framework may extremely prolong the lifetime of photo-induced, colored species.
Anisotropic crystallite size distributions in LiFePO4 powders
Authors: Bobyl Alexander , Kasatkin Igor
Published: April 2021

Large composite particles of LiFePO4 powders registered by TEM with at least 30% amount are recorded by XRD as smaller crystallites with at least 45% amount.
Cyanine-based near infra-red organic photoredox catalysis
Authors: Obah Kosso Anne Roly , Sellet Nicolas , Baralle Alexandre , Cormier Morgan , Goddard Jean-Philippe
Published: April 2021

Direct metal-free near infra-red photoredox catalysis is applied to oxidation, reduction and photosensitization, involving cyanines as photocatalysts. Mechanistic insights through kinetic and quenching experiments are also reported.
Construction of diverse peptide structural architectures via chemoselective peptide ligation
Authors: Cheung Carina Hey Pui , Xu Jianchao , Lee Chi Lung , Zhang Yanfeng , Wei Ruohan , Bierer Donald , Huang Xuhui , Li Xuechen
Published: April 2021

Methods of introducing peptide salicylaldehyde esters and hydroxyl amine functionality into the peptide side chain have been developed. Diverse peptide structural motifs were constructed via ligation with native amide linkages at the ligation sites.
Adhesion behaviors on four special wettable surfaces: natural sources, mechanisms, fabrications and applications
Authors: Wang Yi , Guo Zhiguang , Liu Weimin
Published: April 2021

The surface of plants in nature contains important wetting and adhesion models. By studying their microstructure and chemical composition, the wetting mechanism can be modeled, and its fabrications and applications can be inspired and influenced.
Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) beyond crystallinity: amorphous MOFs, MOF liquids and MOF glasses
Authors: Fonseca Javier , Gong Tenghua , Jiao Li , Jiang Hai-Long
Published: April 2021

The field of MOFs has been incorrectly believed to be purely crystalline. Herein, non-crystalline MOFs (amorphous MOFs, MOF liquids, and MOF glasses) are reviewed. Future research directions are also discussed.
The lithium metal anode in Li–S batteries: challenges and recent progress
Authors: Hong Haeji , Che Mohamad Nur Aqlili Riana , Chae Kyunghee , Marques Mota Filipe , Kim Dong Ha
Published: April 2021

Critical challenges of Li–S batteries are related with the instability of Li metal during cycling. To overcome these issues, electrolyte modification and artificial SEI layer incorporation-based strategies have been here reviewed.
Trace amounts of Ru-doped Ni–Fe oxide bone-like structures via single-step anodization: a flexible and bifunctional electrode for efficient overall water splitting
Authors: Kim Moonsu , Ha Jaeyun , Kim Yong-Tae , Choi Jinsub
Published: April 2021

A trace amount of Ru-doped Ni–Fe oxide film with an in situ formed 3D bone-like structure is an outstanding, efficient, durable, and flexible bifunctional catalyst for water splitting.
Exosomes derived from macrophages upon Zn ion stimulation promote osteoblast and endothelial cell functions
Authors: Liu Jiachuan , Zhao Yuyu , Zhang Yi , Yao Xiaohong , Hang Ruiqiang
Published: April 2021

Osteogenesis and angiogenesis are both important for implant osseointegration, which can be tailored by immunomodulation of macrophages.
Stabilized cubic phase BiAgSe2−xSx with excellent thermoelectric properties via phase boundary engineering
Authors: Hu Yao , Yuan Song , Huo Haojie , Xing Juanjuan , Guo Kai , Yang Xinxin , Luo Jun , Rao Guang-Hui , Zhao Jing-Tai
Published: April 2021

Whilst maintaining promising thermoelectric properties, phase separation and internal strain were significantly suppressed in cubic BiAgSe2−xSxvia phase boundary engineering, as a result of the strengthened chemical bonding.
What Influences Speech-Language Pathologists' Use of Different Types of Language Assessments for Elementary School–Age Children?
Authors: Denman Deborah , Cordier Reinie , Kim Jae-Hyun , Munro Natalie , Speyer Renée
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This study reports on data from a survey of speech-language pathologists' (SLPs) language assessment practices for elementary school–age children. The objective was to investigate the regularity with which SLPs use different types of assessments (described across data types, task types, environmental contexts, and dynamic features). This study also investigated factors that influence assessment practice, the main sources from which SLPs obtain information on language assessment and the main challenges reported by SLPs in relation to language assessment.

Method

A web-based survey was used to collect information from 407 Australian SLPs regarding the types of assessments they use. Factors that influenced the regularity with which different types of assessments were used were investigated using regression analysis.

Results

Most SLPs regularly used assessments that are norm-referenced, decontextualized, and conducted in a clinical context and less regularly used other types of assessments. Service agency, Australian state, and SLPs' years of experience were found to influence the regularity with which some types of assessments were used. Informal discussions with colleagues were the most frequently identified source of information on assessment practice. Main challenges related to limited time, lack of assessment materials, and lack of confidence in assessing children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Conclusions

SLPs could improve current language assessment practice for elementary school–age children through more regular use of some types of assessments. Actions to facilitate evidence-based assessment practice should consider the contextual differences that exist between service agencies and states and address challenges that SLPs experience in relation to language assessment.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.14378948
A new blind image denoising method based on asymmetric generative adversarial network
Authors: Wang Yiming , Chang Dongxia , Zhao Yao
Published: April 2021

Image denoising is a classical topic in computer vision. In recent years, with the development of deep learning, image denoising methods based on discriminative learning have received more attention. In this paper, a new blind image denoising method based on the asymmetric generative adversarial network (ID‐AGAN) is proposed. In the new method, the adversarial learning is used to optimise the high‐dimensional image information denoising, so as to balance the noise removal and detail retention. In order to overcome the unstability of the GAN training and improve the discriminative ability of the discriminating model, an image downsampling layer is added between the generating model and the discriminating model. Moreover, a multi‐scale feature downsampling layer is utilised to extract the feature of the entire image and reducing the effect of noise on training images. Extensive experiments are conducted to verify the performance of the ID‐AGAN algorithm. The results demonstrate that authors' method has high performance and flexibility.
Time evolution of stream interaction region energetic particle spectra in the inner heliosphere
Authors: Joyce C. J. , McComas D. J. , Schwadron N. A. , Christian E. R. , Wiedenbeck M. E. , McNutt R. L. , Cohen C. M. S. , Leske R. A. , Mewaldt R. A. , Stone E. C. , Labrador A. W. , Davis A. J. , Cummings A. C. , Mitchell D. G. , Hill M. E. , Roelof E. C. , Allen R. C. , Szalay J. R. , Rankin J. S. , Desai M. I. , Giacalone J. , Matthaeus W. H. , Bale S. D. , Kasper J. C.
Published: April 2021

We analyze an energetic proton event associated with a stream interaction region (SIR) that was observed at Parker Solar Probe on day 320 of 2018 when the spacecraft was just 0.34 AU from the Sun. Using the Integrated Science Investigation of the Sun instrument suite, we perform a spectral analysis of the event and show how the observed spectra evolve over the course of the event. We find that the spectra from the first day of the event are much more consistent with local acceleration at a weak compression, while spectra from later on are more typical of SIR-related events in which particles accelerated at distant shocks dominate. After the first day, the spectra remain approximately constant, which indicates that the modulation of energetic particles during transit from the presumed source region is weaker than previously thought. We argue that these observations can be explained by a sub-Parker spiral magnetic field structure connecting the spacecraft to a source region in the SIR that is relatively close to the Sun. We further propose that acceleration at weak, pre-shock compressions likely plays an important role in observations of SIR-related events in the inner heliosphere and that future modelling of such events should consider acceleration all along the compression region, not just at the distant shock region.
Revisiting Kepler-444
Authors: Pezzotti C. , Eggenberger P. , Buldgen G. , Meynet G. , Bourrier V. , Mordasini C.
Published: April 2021

Context.Kepler-444 is one of the oldest planetary systems known thus far. Its peculiar configuration consisting of five sub-Earth-sized planets orbiting the companion to a binary stellar system makes its early history puzzling. Moreover, observations of HI-Lyαvariations raise many questions about the potential presence of escaping atmospheres today.

Aims.We aim to study the orbital evolution of Kepler-444-d and Kepler-444-e and the impact of atmospheric evaporation on Kepler-444-e.

Methods.Rotating stellar models of Kepler-444-A were computed with the Geneva stellar evolution code and coupled to an orbital evolution code, accounting for the effects of dynamical, equilibrium tides and atmospheric evaporation. The impacts of multiple stellar rotational histories and X-ray and extreme ultraviolet (XUV) luminosity evolutionary tracks are explored.

Results.Using detailed rotating stellar models able to reproduce the rotation rate of Kepler-444-A, we find that its observed rotation rate is perfectly in line with what is expected for this old K0-type star, indicating that there is no reason for it to be exceptionally active as would be required to explain the observed HI-Lyαvariations from a stellar origin. We show that given the low planetary mass (~0.03 M⊕) and relatively large orbital distance (~0.06 AU) of Kepler-444-d and e, dynamical tides negligibly affect their orbits, regardless of the stellar rotational history considered. We point out instead how remarkable the impact is of the stellar rotational history on the estimation of the lifetime mass loss for Kepler-444-e. We show that, even in the case of an extremely slow rotating star, it seems unlikely that such a planet could retain a fraction of the initial water-ice content if we assume that it formed with a Ganymede-like composition.