bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated inflammatory gene expression in intervertebral disc tissues in mice with ADAM8 inactivated
Authors: Zhang Yejia , Tian Zuozhen , Gerard David , Yao Lutian , Shofer Frances S. , Cs-Szabo Gabriella , Qin Ling , Pacifici Maurizio , Enomoto-Iwamoto Motomi
Published: January 2021

We found ADAM8 enzymatic activity elevated in degenerative human intervertebral disc (IVD). Here, we examined the discs in ADAM8-inactivation mice that carry a mutation preventing self-activation of the enzyme. Surprisingly, elevated gene expression for inflammatory markers (Cxcl1,IL6) was observed in injured discs of ADAM8 mutant mice, along with elevated expression of type 2 collagen gene (Col2a1), compared with wild type controls. Injured annulus fibrosus of mutant and wild type mice contained a higher proportion of large collagen fibers compared with intact discs, as documented by microscopic examination under circular polarized light. In the intact IVDs,Adam8EQmouse AF contained lower proportion of yellow (intermediate) fiber than WT mice. This suggests that ADAM8 may regulate inflammation and collagen fiber assembly. The seemingly contradictory findings of elevated inflammatory markers in mutant mice and excessive ADAM8 activity in human degenerative discs suggest that ADAM8 may interact with other enzymatic and pro-inflammatory processes needed for tissue maintenance and repair. As a future therapeutic intervention to retard intervertebral disc degeneration, partial inhibition of ADAM8 proteolysis may be more desirable than complete inactivation of this enzyme.
The effect of anxiety and depression on progression of glaucoma
Authors: Shin Da Young , Jung Kyoung In , Park Hae Young Lopilly , Park Chan Kee
Published: January 2021

Glaucoma is considered a chronic disease that requires lifelong management. Chronic diseases are known to be highly associated with psychological disturbances such as depression and anxiety. There have also been many studies on association between anxiety or depression and glaucoma. The majority of these studies explained that the glaucoma diagnosis causes anxiety or depression. However, It is also necessary to evaluate whether the psychological disturbance itself affect glaucoma. Therefore, we investigated the association of anxiety and depression with glaucoma progression, and elucidate mechanisms underlying that. We included 251 eyes with open angle glaucoma who were followed up for at least 2 years in this retrospective case–control study. The Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and Beck Depressive Inventory-II (BDI-II) were used to assess anxiety and depression in glaucoma patients. Patients were classified into groups (high-anxiety group; HA-G, low-anxiety group; LA-G, high-depression group; HD-G, low-depression group; LD-G) according to their score on the BAI or BDI-II (separately). In logistic regression analysis, disc hemorrhage, peak intraocular pressure (IOP) and RNFL thickness loss rate were significantly associated with high anxiety (p = 0.017,p = 0.046,p = 0.026). RNFL thinning rate and disc hemorrhage were significant factors associated with anxiety in multivariate models (p = 0.015,p = 0.019). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed a significant positive correlation between the rate of RNFL thickness loss and BAI score (B = 0.058; 95% confidential interval = 0.020–0.097;p = 0.003), and RNFL loss and IOP fluctuation (B = 0.092; 95% confidential interval = 0.030–0.154;p = 0.004). For the depression scale, visual field mean deviation and heart rate variability were significantly associated with high depression in multivariate logistic regression analysis (p = 0.003,p = 0.006). We suggest that anxiety increase the risk of glaucoma progression and they are also associated with IOP profile and disc hemorrhage.
Photoperiodic regulation of dopamine signaling regulates seasonal changes in retinal photosensitivity in mice
Authors: Okimura Kousuke , Nakane Yusuke , Nishiwaki-Ohkawa Taeko , Yoshimura Takashi
Published: January 2021

At high latitudes, approximately 10% of people suffer from depression during the winter season, a phenomenon known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Shortened photoperiod and/or light intensity during winter season are risk factors for SAD, and bright light therapy is an effective treatment. Interestingly, reduced retinal photosensitivity along with the mood is observed in SAD patients in winter. However, the molecular basis underlying seasonal changes in retinal photosensitivity remains unclear, and pharmacological intervention is required. Here we show photoperiodic regulation of dopamine signaling and improvement of short day–attenuated photosensitivity by its pharmacological intervention in mice. Electroretinograms revealed dynamic seasonal changes in retinal photosensitivity. Transcriptome analysis identified short day-mediated suppression of the Th gene, which encodes tyrosine hydroxylase, a rate-limiting enzyme for dopamine biosynthesis. Furthermore, pharmacological intervention in dopamine signaling through activation of the cAMP signaling pathway rescued short day–attenuated photosensitivity, whereas dopamine receptor antagonists decreased photosensitivity under long-day conditions. Our results reveal molecular basis of seasonal changes in retinal photosensitivity in mammals. In addition, our findings provide important insights into the pathogenesis of SAD and offer potential therapeutic interventions.
LRIG proteins regulate lipid metabolism via BMP signaling and affect the risk of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Herdenberg Carl , Mutie Pascal M. , Billing Ola , Abdullah Ahmad , Strawbridge Rona J. , Dahlman Ingrid , Tuck Simon , Holmlund Camilla , Arner Peter , Henriksson Roger , Franks Paul W. , Hedman Håkan
Published: January 2021

Leucine-rich repeats and immunoglobulin-like domains (LRIG) proteins have been implicated as regulators of growth factor signaling; however, the possible redundancy among mammalian LRIG1, LRIG2, and LRIG3 has hindered detailed elucidation of their physiological functions. Here, we show that Lrig-null mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) are deficient in adipogenesis and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling. In contrast, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling appeared unaltered in Lrig-null cells. The BMP signaling defect was rescued by ectopic expression of LRIG1 or LRIG3 but not by expression of LRIG2. Caenorhabditis elegans with mutant LRIG/sma-10 variants also exhibited a lipid storage defect. Human LRIG1 variants were strongly associated with increased body mass index (BMI) yet protected against type 2 diabetes; these effects were likely mediated by altered adipocyte morphology. These results demonstrate that LRIG proteins function as evolutionarily conserved regulators of lipid metabolism and BMP signaling and have implications for human disease.
Large field-of-view nanometer-sectioning microscopy by using metal-induced energy transfer and biexponential lifetime analysis
Authors: Hwang Wonsang , Seo Jinwon , Kim DongEun , Lee Chang Jun , Choi In-Hong , Yoo Kyung-Hwa , Kim Dug Young
Published: January 2021

Total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy, which has about 100-nm axial excitation depth, is the method of choice for nanometer-sectioning imaging for decades. Lately, several new imaging techniques, such as variable angle TIRF microscopy, supercritical-angle fluorescence microscopy, and metal-induced energy transfer imaging, have been proposed to enhance the axial resolution of TIRF. However, all of these methods use high numerical aperture (NA) objectives, and measured images inevitably have small field-of-views (FOVs). Small-FOV can be a serious limitation when multiple cells need to be observed. We propose large-FOV nanometer-sectioning microscopy, which breaks the complementary relations between the depth of focus and axial sectioning by using MIET. Large-FOV imaging is achieved with a low-magnification objective, while nanometer-sectioning is realized utilizing metal-induced energy transfer and biexponential fluorescence lifetime analysis. The feasibility of our proposed method was demonstrated by imaging nanometer-scale distances between the basal membrane of human aortic endothelial cells and a substrate.
Electrocatalytic dimeric inactivation mechanism by a porphyrinic molecular-type catalyst: integration in a glucose/O2 fuel cell
Authors: Elouarzaki Kamal , Kannan Vishvak , Wang Yian , Fisher Adrian C. , Lee Jong-Min
Published: January 2021

We report a chemical inactivation/redox reactivation process (IAP) based on the surface-confined rhodium–porphyrinic catalyst on a multi-walled carbon nanotube surface which presents an excellent and stable electron transfer.
Strategies to suppress hydrogen evolution for highly selective electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction: challenges and perspectives
Authors: Ren Yongwen , Yu Chang , Tan Xinyi , Huang Hongling , Wei Qianbing , Qiu Jieshan
Published: January 2021

This review underlines the strategies to suppress HER for selective NRR in view of proton-/electron-transfer kinetics, thermodynamics, and electrocatalyst design on the basis of deep understanding for NRR mechanisms.
Facile fabrication of Bi nanoparticle-decorated g-C3N4photocatalysts for effective tetracycline hydrochloride degradation: environmental factors, degradation mechanism, pathways and biotoxicity evaluation
Authors: Jia Dongling , Zhang Yifan , Zhang Xue , Feng Peiying , Yang Lin , Ning Ruonan , Pan Hongzhi , Miao Yuqing
Published: January 2021

A metallic BiNPs/g-C3N4nanosheet photocatalyst is fabricated by a facile ultrasound-assisted electrostatic self-assembly method, and presents high-efficiency tetracycline degradation performance.
Potential effects of nutrition-based weight loss therapies in reversing obesity-related breast cancer epigenetic marks
Authors: Lorenzo Paula M. , Crujeiras Ana B.
Published: January 2021

Weight loss, dietary patterns and food components produce changes in obesity-related epigenetic marks that may reduce carcinogenesis processes, improve the response to treatments, and increase long-term survival in obesity-related breast cancer.
Vasculoprotective effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) and underlying molecular mechanisms
Authors: Li Chao , Li Jie , Jiang Feng , Tzvetkov Nikolay T. , Horbanczuk Jaroslaw O. , Li Yunlun , Atanasov Atanas G. , Wang Dongdong
Published: January 2021

Bioactive constituents of ginger are reviewed. Vascular protective effects of ginger and a variety of mechanisms are presented. Ginger and its components show vasculoprotective effects in clinical trials.
An integrated and multi-technique approach to characterize airborne graphene flakes in the workplace during production phases
Authors: Tombolini Francesca , Boccuni Fabio , Ferrante Riccardo , Natale Claudio , Marasco Luigi , Mantero Elisa , Del Rio Castillo Antonio Esau , Leoncino Luca , Pellegrini Vittorio , Sabella Stefania , Iavicoli Sergio
Published: January 2021

Workplace exposure to airborne few layer graphene: real time measurements (PNC, average diameter and LDSA) and characterization technique using electron microscopes (SEM, EDS, TEM, SAED) and Raman spectroscopy.
Ultrasensitive chemiluminescence immunoassay with enhanced precision for the detection of cTnI amplified by acridinium ester-loaded microspheres and internally calibrated by magnetic fluorescent nanoparticles
Authors: Zhao Huan , Lin Qifeng , Huang Li , Zhai Yunfeng , Liu Yuan , Deng Yan , Su Enben , He Nongyue
Published: January 2021

Hydrogel microspheres sensitive to temperature as new potential signal enhancers and magnetic fluorescent nanoparticles as internal standards were used to establish a new CLIA method for the accurate diagnosis of cTnI in the human body.
Molecular mechanisms underlying the role of the puckered surface in the biocompatibility of black phosphorus
Authors: Ma Xinyao , Zhu Xiaohong , Huang Changxiong , Li Zhen , Fan Jun
Published: January 2021

The puckered surface structure of black phosphorus endows it with distinctive biocompatibility.
Insertion of Pro-Hyp-Gly provides 2 kcal mol−1 stability but attenuates the specific assembly of ABC heterotrimeric collagen triple helices
Authors: Wang Wei-Ming , Yu Chen-Hsu , Chang Jing-Yuan , Chen Ting-Hsuan , Chen Yan-Chen , Sun Yi-Ting , Wang Szu-Huan , Jao Shu-Chuan , Cheng Richard P.
Published: January 2021

Collagen triple helices are stabilized by 2 kcal mol−1 upon inserting proline-hydroxyproline-glycine but attenuates the specific assembly of the ABC heterotrimer.
Continuous dimethyldioxirane generation for polymer epoxidation
Authors: Ahlqvist Grace P. , Burke Eileen G. , Johnson Jeremiah A. , Jamison Timothy F.
Published: January 2021

Herein we describe the development of a reactor for the continuous flow generation and use of dimethyldioxirane (DMDO) and its application to the low-level epoxidation of unsaturated polymers.
Metal oxide integrated metal organic frameworks (MO@MOF): rational design, fabrication strategy, characterization and emerging photocatalytic applications
Authors: Subudhi Satyabrata , Tripathy Suraj Prakash , Parida Kulamani
Published: January 2021

This review focuses on the possible synthesis route, characterization techniques, and mechanistic pathways involved in the photocatalytic applications of MO@MOFs.
A rational design of an efficient counter electrode with the Co/Co1P1N3 atomic interface for promoting catalytic performance
Authors: Zhou Danni , Xia Zhaoming , Shang Huishan , Xiao Hai , Jiang Zhuoli , Li Haijing , Zheng Lirong , Dong Juncai , Chen Wenxing
Published: January 2021

The P, N co-stabilized cobalt single atom catalyst (Co/Co1P1N3) synthesized by in situ phosphatizing strategy was adopted as efficient counter electrode (CE) in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC), proven to be a brilliant candidate for traditional precious platinum (Pt) CE.
One-step solid-state pyrolysis of bio-wastes to synthesize multi-hierarchical porous carbon for ultra-long life supercapacitors
Authors: Fu Min , Huang Jintao , Feng Simin , Zhang Tianyi , Qian Peng-Cheng , Wong Wai-Yeung
Published: January 2021

The multi-hierarchical porous carbon was prepared using a general one-step method and assembled into symmetrical supercapacitors, exhibiting exceptional cyclic stability with 93.2% capacitance retention over 100 000 cycles.
The oxa-Michael reaction in the synthesis of 5- and 6-membered oxygen-containing heterocycles
Authors: Ahmad Tauqir , Ullah Nisar
Published: January 2021

In this review, we provide an updated account on the recent advances and applications of oxa-Michael reaction in the synthesis 5- and 6-membered monocyclic oxygen-containing heterocyclic compounds published in the literature since 2013 to date.
Improving the dynamics of a Nd–Mg–Ni-based alloy by combining Ni element and mechanical milling
Authors: Zhang Yin , Yong Hui , Li Xia , Yuan Zeming , Han Zhonggang , Feng Dianchene , Sun Hao
Published: January 2021

Both ball grinding and increasing the nickel content can effectively reduce the dehydrogenation activation energy of a RE–Mg-based alloy.
Enabling scale-up of mesoporous silicon for lithium-ion batteries: a systematic study of a thermal moderator
Authors: Entwistle Jake E. , Patwardhan Siddharth V.
Published: January 2021

By identifying the critical controlling factors, this manuscript provides the first report enabling scale-up of mesoporous silicon, which is non-trivial due to the large excess heat produced.
DNA-encoded libraries (DELs): a review of on-DNA chemistries and their output
Authors: Shi Ying , Wu Yan-ran , Yu Jian-qiang , Zhang Wan-nian , Zhuang Chun-lin
Published: January 2021

We summarize a series of novel DNA-compatible chemistry reactions for DNA-encoded chemical library (DEL) building blocks and analyse the druggability of screened hit moleculesviaDELs in the past five years.
Incorporation ofN-phenyl in poly(benzimidazole imide)s and improvement in H2O-absorbtion and transparency
Authors: Qian Guangtao , Dai Fengna , Chen Haiquan , Wang Mengxia , Hu Mengjie , Chen Chunhai , Yu Youhai
Published: January 2021

A novel modified PBII was achieved. The incorporation ofN-phenyl group not only improved the properties but also healed the problem of high H2O-absorption for traditional PBIIs.
N-type thermoelectric Ag8SnSe6 with extremely low lattice thermal conductivity by replacing Ag with Cu
Authors: Yang Chao , Luo Yong , Li Xie , Cui Jiaolin
Published: January 2021

The point defects and the bond energy can be increased by replacing Ag with Cu, which have diverse effects on κL respectively, thus attaining the minimum κL ∼ 0.12 W K−1 m−1 at 645 K.
N-Heterocyclic carbene–carbodiimide (NHC–CDI) betaine adducts: synthesis, characterization, properties, and applications
Authors: Lamb Jessica R. , Brown Christopher M. , Johnson Jeremiah A.
Published: January 2021

N-heterocyclic carbene-carbodiimide betaine adducts are zwitterionic amidinate-like structures with tunable properties that have applications as ligands, junctions in supramolecular polymers, and stabilizers for radical cations.
Engineering polymer film porosity for solvent triggered actuation
Authors: Pervin Rumiaya , Ghosh Pijush , Basavaraj Madivala G.
Published: January 2021

A novel approach for the fabrication of porous polymer films and their self-folding behavior in response to water is investigated.
Porous and amorphous cobalt hydroxysulfide core–shell nanoneedles on Ti-mesh as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for energy-efficient hydrogen production via urea electrolysis
Authors: Jiang Yu , Gao Shanshan , Xu Gongchen , Song Xiaoming
Published: January 2021

Porous and amorphous CoSx(OH)y core–shell nanoneedles covered by numerous ultra-thin small nanosheets are synthesized successfully on Ti-mesh, and act as a high activity and stability bifunctional catalyst for urea electrolysis.
The rational design of a redox-active mixed ion/electron conductor as a multi-functional binder for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Hwang Chihyun , Lee Jungho , Jeong Jihong , Lee Eunryeol , Kim Jonghak , Kim Seoyoung , Yang Changduk , Song Hyun-Kon
Published: January 2021

A redox-active mixed ion and electron conductor (redox-active MIEC) is presented as a binder. High capacity was guaranteed, particularly at high rates due to its MIEC nature, while an additional capacity was achieved from its redox activity.
Chemically presodiated Sb with a fluoride-rich interphase as a cycle-stable anode for high-energy sodium ion batteries
Authors: Liu Mengchuang , Yang Zezhou , Shen Yifei , Guo Shuhan , Zhang Junyao , Ai Xinping , Yang Hanxi , Qian Jiangfeng
Published: January 2021

A controllable and effective presodiation strategy was reported to eliminate the large irreversible Na loss of Sb anodes, thus enabling a Na-ion full battery with high energy density and excellent cycling stability.
Investigation of transitions between the M-phases in AgNbO3 based ceramics
Authors: Yan Zhongna , Zhang Dou , Zhou Xuefan , Zhang Man , Zhang Ludan , Zhang Hangfeng , Xue Guoliang , Abrahams Isaac , Yan Haixue
Published: January 2021

Phase behaviour is clarified in the M-phases of AgNbO3 based ceramics which show field-induced phase transitions from antiferroelectric (AFE) to ferroelectric (FE) phases and are of interest for high power energy storage in dielectric capacitors.
Electron/hole blocking layers as ionic blocking layers in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Bitton Sapir , Tessler Nir
Published: January 2021

Ion diffusion into the BLs changes the device from symmetric-intrinsic to asymmetric-doped with all internal parameters changed.
Three-in-one: information encryption, anti-counterfeiting and LD-tracking of multifunctional purine derivatives
Authors: Wang Hao-Yuan , Yu Kang-Kang , Tan Chong-Yun , Li Kun , Liu Yan-Hong , Shi Lei , Lu Kai , Yu Xiao-Qi
Published: January 2021

Novel purine-based derivatives with satisfactory fluorescence properties can be applied in information encryption, anti-counterfeiting and LD-tracking.
Biomimetic multifunctional E-skins integrated with mechanoluminescence and chemical sensing abilities
Authors: Yang Xin , Zhang Xu , Guan Qingbao , Zhang Xinxing
Published: January 2021

We present a facile method to prepare multifunctional sensors with visual strain sensing and ammonia monitoring abilities based on PANI@CNCs and metal-doped ZnS microparticle-embedded PDMS composites.
Co3C as a promising cocatalyst for superior photocatalytic H2production based on swift electron transfer processes
Authors: Irfan Rana Muhammad , Tahir Mudassir Hussain , Iqbal Shahid , Nadeem Mubashar , Bashir Tariq , Maqsood Mudassar , Zhao Jianqing , Gao Lijun
Published: January 2021

The inexpensive Co3C proved itself as highly efficient cocatalyst to generate economical H2. An apparent quantum yield of 19% was achieved which is among the best reported carbide-based cocatalysts.
Recent advances in ultrathin 2D hexagonal boron nitride based gas sensors
Authors: Goel Neeraj , Kumar Mahesh
Published: January 2021

This review analytically summarises the state-of-art advances in hBN based devices with a particular emphasis on gas sensors. The involved physics and sensing mechanism for detecting different gas molecules are also thoroughly elucidated.
Correction: Analysis of the effects of acoustic levitation to simulate the microgravity environment on the development of early zebrafish embryos
Authors: Li Li , Gu Ning , Dong Huijuan , Li Bingsheng , Grattan Kenneth T. V.
Published: January 2021

Correction for ‘Analysis of the effects of acoustic levitation to simulate the microgravity environment on the development of early zebrafish embryos’ by Li Li et al., RSC Adv., 2020, 10, 44593–44600, DOI: 10.1039/D0RA07344J.
Review: Neural Mechanisms of Tinnitus and Hyperacusis in Acute Drug-Induced Ototoxicity
Authors: Salvi Richard , Radziwon Kelly , Manohar Senthilvelan , Auerbach Ben , Ding Dalian , Liu Xiaopeng , Lau Condon , Chen Yu-Chen , Chen Guang-Di
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Tinnitus and hyperacusis are debilitating conditions often associated with age-, noise-, and drug-induced hearing loss. Because of their subjective nature, the neural mechanisms that give rise to tinnitus and hyperacusis are poorly understood. Over the past few decades, considerable progress has been made in deciphering the biological bases for these disorders using animal models.

Method

Important advances in understanding the biological bases of tinnitus and hyperacusis have come from studies in which tinnitus and hyperacusis are consistently induced with a high dose of salicylate, the active ingredient in aspirin.

Results

Salicylate induced a transient hearing loss characterized by a reduction in otoacoustic emissions, a moderate cochlear threshold shift, and a large reduction in the neural output of the cochlea. As the weak cochlear neural signals were relayed up the auditory pathway, they were progressively amplified so that the suprathreshold neural responses in the auditory cortex were much larger than normal. Excessive central gain (neural amplification), presumably resulting from diminished inhibition, is believed to contribute to hyperacusis and tinnitus. Salicylate also increased corticosterone stress hormone levels. Functional imaging studies indicated that salicylate increased spontaneous activity and enhanced functional connectivity between structures in the central auditory pathway and regions of the brain associated with arousal (reticular formation), emotion (amygdala), memory/spatial navigation (hippocampus), motor planning (cerebellum), and motor control (caudate/putamen).

Conclusion

These results suggest that tinnitus and hyperacusis arise from aberrant neural signaling in a complex neural network that includes both auditory and nonauditory structures.
Teachers' Content Knowledge and Pedagogical Beliefs Regarding the Use of African American English
Authors: Diehm Emily A. , Hendricks Alison Eisel
Published: January 2021

Purpose

In order to provide appropriate and effective assessment and instructional activities, teachers are encouraged to develop their cultural competency. Although speech-language pathologists (SLPs) receive training on the linguistic features of nonmainstream dialects of English, such as African American English (AAE), less is known about teachers' training, beliefs, and pedagogical knowledge surrounding this topic.

Method

Using stratified random sampling by county population, we invited educators within selected Ohio school districts to complete an online survey (
n
= 17,548). The survey probed teachers' pre- and postservice training, beliefs, and knowledge of linguistic features and terminology relating to AAE. A total of 571 teachers completed at least 50% of the survey items (3.66% response rate).

Results

Few teachers report receiving training on AAE and demonstrated a limited grasp of linguistic terms commonly found in AAE literature; however, many teachers reported feeling confident in their abilities to identify features of AAE in written language tasks. In terms of school culture, teachers reported that they believed AAE to be more appropriate outside (rather than inside) the classroom, and only one third of teachers received resources to enhance their knowledge of the cultural and linguistic features of AAE.

Conclusions

Results suggest that teachers may benefit from increased access to training and materials to further develop their cultural competence. Given SLPs' familiarity with cultural and linguistic variability, SLPs may work to support teachers' cultural competence and encourage culturally appropriate assessment and intervention practices. Additional research is needed to determine how teachers' skills in these areas predict effectiveness/teaching ability and which factors are most important in the provision of culturally relevant instruction.
Using Free Computer-Assisted Language Sample Analysis to Evaluate and Set Treatment Goals for Children Who Speak African American English
Authors: Overton Courtney , Baron Taylor , Pearson Barbara Zurer , Ratner Nan Bernstein
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Spoken language sample analysis (LSA) is widely considered to be a critical component of assessment for child language disorders. It is our best window into a preschool child's everyday expressive communicative skills. However, historically, the process can be cumbersome, and reference values against which LSA findings can be “benchmarked” are based on surprisingly little data. Moreover, current LSA protocols potentially disadvantage speakers of nonmainstream English varieties, such as African American English (AAE), blurring the line between language difference and disorder.

Method

We provide a tutorial on the use of free software (Computerized Language Analysis [CLAN]) enabled by the ongoing National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders–funded “Child Language Assessment Project.” CLAN harnesses the advanced computational power of the Child Language Data Exchange System archive (
www.childes.talkbank.org
), with an aim to develop and test fine-grained and potentially language variety–sensitive benchmarks for a range of LSA measures. Using retrospective analysis of data from AAE-speaking children, we demonstrate how CLAN LSA can facilitate dialect-fair assessment and therapy goal setting.

Results

Using data originally collected to norm the Diagnostic Evaluation of Language Variation, we suggest that Developmental Sentence Scoring does not appear to bias against children who speak AAE but does identify children who have language impairment (LI). Other LSA measure scores were depressed in the group of AAE-speaking children with LI but did not consistently differentiate individual children as LI. Furthermore, CLAN software permits rapid, in-depth analysis using Developmental Sentence Scoring and the Index of Productive Syntax that can identify potential intervention targets for children with developmental language disorder.
African American English and Early Literacy: A Comparison of Approaches to Quantifying Nonmainstream Dialect Use
Authors: Maher Zachary K. , Erskine Michelle E. , Byrd Arynn S. , Harring Jeffrey R. , Edwards Jan R.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Many studies have found a correlation between overall usage rates of nonmainstream forms and reading scores, but less is known about which dialect differences are most predictive. Here, we consider different methods of characterizing African American English use from existing assessments and examine which methods best predict literacy achievement.

Method

Kindergarten and first-grade students who speak African American English received two assessments of dialect use and two assessments of decoding at the beginning and end of the school year. Item-level analyses of the dialect-use assessments were used to compute measures of dialect usage: (a) an overall feature rate measure based on the Diagnostic Evaluation of Language Variation–Screening Test, (b) a subscore analysis of the Diagnostic Evaluation of Language Variation–Screening Test based on items that pattern together, (c) an alternative assessment where children repeat and translate sentences, and (d) “repertoire” measures based on a categorical distinction of whether a child used a particular feature of mainstream American English.

Results

Models using feature rate measures provided better data–model fit than those with repertoire measures, and baseline performance on a sentence repetition task was a positive predictor of reading score at the end of the school year. For phonological subscores, change from the beginning to end of the school year predicted reading at the end of the school year, whereas baseline scores were most predictive for grammatical subscores.

Conclusions

The addition of a sentence imitation task is useful for understanding a child's dialect and anticipating potential areas for support in early literacy. We observed some support for the idea that morphological dialect differences (i.e., irregular verb morphology) have a particularly close tie to later literacy, but future work will be necessary to confirm this finding.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.13425968
Rare Vocabulary Production in School-Age Narrators From Low-Income Communities
Authors: Mahurin-Smith Jamie , Mills Monique T. , Chang Rong
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This study was designed to assess the utility of a tool for automated analysis of rare vocabulary use in the spoken narratives of a group of school-age children from low-income communities.

Method

We evaluated personal and fictional narratives from 76 school-age children from low-income communities (Mage= 9;3 [years;months]). We analyzed children's use of rare vocabulary in their narratives, with the goal of evaluating relationships among rare vocabulary use, performance on standardized language tests, language sample measures, sex, and use of African American English.

Results

Use of rare vocabulary in school-age children is robustly correlated with established language sample measures. Male sex was also significantly associated with more frequent rare vocabulary use. There was no association between rare vocabulary use and use of African American English.

Discussion

Evaluation of rare vocabulary use in school-age children may be a culturally fair assessment strategy that aligns well with existing language sample measures.
Print Knowledge in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Do Child and Family Variables Play a Role?
Authors: Dynia Jaclyn M. , Solari Emily J.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the print knowledge of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in comparison to children who have developmental language disorder (DLD) and typically developing (TD) children as well as examine the child and family predictors of print knowledge.

Method

A total of 629 preschool children, including 33 children with ASD, 93 children with DLD, and 503 TD children, were the focus of the current study. Teachers completed direct assessments with the children in the fall and spring of the academic year on print knowledge using the Phonological Awareness Literacy Screener.

Results

Analyses of covariance were used to compare the print knowledge skills (uppercase and lowercase letter identification, print and word awareness, name writing) in the fall and spring for each of the three groups. The groups were significantly different for the Print and Word Awareness and Name Writing subtests in both the fall and spring. A Tukey's honestly significant difference further indicated that, for these subtests, the children with ASD had significantly lower scores than both the children with DLD and TD children. When examining the child and family predictors of residualized gain in print knowledge for the children with ASD, the only significant predictor for any outcome was fall scores. When examining the predictors for the full sample, fall scores, age, ASD status, and mothers' education level were significant predictors of print and word awareness and name writing scores.

Conclusions

None of the child and family characteristics seemed to be related to residualized gain in print knowledge for children with ASD. However, when examining predictors of residualized gain in print knowledge for the full sample, ASD status was related to lower scores for both print and word awareness and name writing.
Building Comprehension Skills of Young Children With Autism One Storybook at a Time
Authors: Fleury Veronica P. , Whalon Kelly , Gilmore Carolyn , Wang Xiaoning , Marks Richard
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Reading involves the ability to decode and draw meaning from printed text. Reading skill profiles vary widely among learners with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). One fairly common pattern is relative strength in decoding combined with weak comprehension skills—indicators of this profile emerge as early as the preschool years. In order for children with ASD to develop a facility with language that prepares them for reading success, practitioners must intentionally create and provide appropriate instruction practices.

Method

In this tutorial, we describe ways in which practitioners can support language development and comprehension skills for children with ASD within the context of shared reading activities. We begin by providing known information about the reading performance of children with ASD using the Simple View of Reading as our guiding conceptual framework. Next, we present a number of practical, evidence-based strategies that educators can implement within the context of shared book reading activities. Case studies are embedded throughout the tutorial to demonstrate how practitioners may apply these strategies in their instructional settings.

Conclusions

Shared book reading interventions are a well-studied, developmentally appropriate approach for bringing about change in language and literacy in early childhood. The success of shared reading depends upon rich communication and interaction between the adult reader and the child. Many children with ASD will require strategies to support social communication and emergent literacy skill development (e.g., vocabulary knowledge, language comprehension) that are specifically linked to future reading comprehension.
Real‐time and dynamic time transfer method based on double‐differenced real‐time kinematic mode
Authors: Tu Rui , Zhang Pengfei , Zhang Rui , Fan Lihong , Han Junqiang , Hong Ju , Liu Jinhai , Lu Xiaochun
Published: January 2021

In this study, a real‐time and dynamic time transfer method based on double‐differenced (DD) real‐time kinematic (RTK) mode is proposed. First, the method forms the DD observations of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) to fix the DD ambiguity, and then, all of the fixed single‐differenced (SD) ambiguities are recovered while defining the SD ambiguity datum; finally, the method uses the SD observations to realise the time transfer by using the fixed SD ambiguities. Five different baseline links were used for the validations. The results demonstrated that the DD‐RTK method can be used for both kinematic positioning and precise time transfers, and it provides for much better accuracy and stability than the un‐differenced precise point positioning method because it is operated by the broadcast ephemeris, which is more convenient for real‐time applications.
PSZSPT: A joint Planck and SPT-SZ cluster catalog
Authors: Melin J.-B. , Bartlett J. G. , Tarrío P. , Pratt G. W.
Published: January 2021

We present the first cluster catalog extracted from combined space-based (Planck) and ground-based (South Pole Telescope; SPT-SZ) millimeter data. We developed and applied a matched multi-filter (MMF) capable of dealing with the different transfer functions and resolutions of the two datasets. We verified that it produces results consistent with publications from Planck and SPT collaborations when applied on the datasets individually. We also verified that Planck and SPT-SZ cluster fluxes are consistent with each other. When applied blindly to the combined dataset, the MMF generated a catalog of 419 detections (S/N > 5), of which 323 are already part of the SPT-SZ or PSZ2 catalogs; 54 are new SZ detections, which have been identified in other catalogs or surveys; and 42 are new unidentified candidates. The MMF takes advantage of the complementarity of the two datasets, Planck being particularly useful for detecting clusters at a low redshift (z < 0.3), while SPT is efficient at finding higher redshift (z > 0.3) sources. This work represents a proof of concept that blind cluster extraction can be performed on combined, inhomogeneous millimeter datasets acquired from space and ground. This result is of prime importance for planned ground-based cosmic microwave background (CMB) experiments (e.g., Simons Observatory, CMB-S4) and envisaged CMB space missions (e.g., PICO, Backlight) that will detect hundreds of thousands of clusters in the low mass regime (M500 ≤ 1014 M⊙), for which the various sources of intra-cluster emission (gas, dust, synchrotron) will be of the same order of magnitude and hence require broad ground and space frequency coverage with a comparable spatial resolution for adequate separation.
Searching for solar-like oscillations in pre-main sequence stars using APOLLO
Authors: Müllner M. , Zwintz K. , Corsaro E. , Steindl T. , Potravnov I. , Guenther E. W. , Kniazev A. , Gvaramadze V.
Published: January 2021

Context. In recent years, our understanding of solar-like oscillations from main sequence to red giant stars has improved dramatically thanks to pristine data collected from space telescopes. One of the remaining open questions focuses on the observational identification of solar-like oscillations in pre-main sequence stars.

Aims. We aim to develop an improved method to search for solar-like oscillations in pre-main sequence stars and apply it to data collected by the Kepler K2 mission.

Methods. Our software APOLLO includes a novel way to detect low signal-to-noise ratio solar-like oscillations in the presence of a high background level.

Results. By calibrating our method using known solar-like oscillators from the main Kepler mission, we apply it to T Tauri stars observed by Kepler K2 and identify several candidate pre-main sequence solar-like oscillators.

Conclusions. We find that our method is robust even when applied to time-series of observational lengths as short as those obtained with the TESS satellite in one sector. We identify EPIC 205375290 as a possible candidate for solar-like oscillations in a pre-main sequence star with νmax ≃ 242 μHz. We also derive its fundamental parameters to be Teff = 3670 ± 180 K, log g = 3.85 ± 0.3, v sin i = 8 ± 1 km s−1, and about solar metallicity from a high-resolution spectrum obtained from the Keck archive.
Inverse design of EBG waveguides through scattering matrices
Authors: Palmeri Roberta , Isernia Tommaso
Published: January 2021

Inverse design procedures aim at determining optimal parameters for a given device in order to satisfy assigned specifications. In this contribution, the design of optimal EBG waveguides through inverse problems tools is addressed. In particular, an inversion tool based on the so called ‘scattering matrices’ is proposed and assessed to optimize the guiding effect for straight and bent waveguides.
Double-scale homogenized impedance models for periodically modulated metasurfaces
Authors: Martini Enrica , Caminita Francesco , Maci Stefano
Published: January 2021

This paper investigates the accuracy of homogenized impedance models for the description of periodically modulated metasurfaces (MTSs) realized by printing subwavelength patches on a grounded dielectric slab. The problem is relevant to surface-wave based MTS antennas. The homogenized models are based on the local impedance synthesis of the subwavelength patch elements on the basis of a micro-periodicity assumption (that is, with a subwavelength period); the homogenized impedance is successively used in a macro-periodically modulated problem; that is, a periodic homogenized problem with a period which includes several micro-periods. Two different homogenized impedance models are compared. A first model is based on an anisotropic “impenetrable” impedance, defined by boundary conditions (BCs) at the MTS-air interface, while the second one uses a “penetrable” impedance sheet describing the homogenized BCs imposed by the metallic cladding on the grounded metallic slab. Although the presence of the grounded slab is considered in both models, they provide different results when the homogenized impedance is used to describe the macro-modulation. It is shown, through comparison with a full-wave analysis, that both the homogenized models can provide consistent results, but the penetrable impedance model is more accurate in the prediction of both the complex propagation constant and the current distribution. This is due to its capability to correctly account for the spatial dispersivity of the MTS.
Cardinality estimation for random stopping sets based on Poisson point processes
Authors: Privault Nicolas
Published: January 2021

We construct unbiased estimators for the distribution of the number of points inside random stopping sets based on a Poisson point process. Our approach is based on moment identities for stopping sets, showing that the random count of points inside the complement S̅ of a stopping set S has a Poisson distribution conditionally to S. The proofs do not require the use of set-indexed martingales, and our estimators have a lower variance when compared to standard sampling. Numerical simulations are presented for examples such as the convex hull and the Voronoi flower of a Poisson point process, and their complements.
Anomalous Origin of the Left Anterior Descending Coronary Artery in an Adult
Authors: Shibagaki Keisuke , Shiiku Chikara , Kamiya Hiroyuki , Kikuchi Yoichi
Published: January 2021

An anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is a rare congenital heart disease. Among the variants, an anomalous origin of the left anterior descending coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALADPA) is extremely rare. Here, we report a case of ALADPA in an adult that was treated with coronary artery bypass grafting using the left internal thoracic artery.
Make Cardiac Surgery Great again: The Perks of Being a Resident
Authors: Van Hemelrijck Mathias
Published: January 2021

Training in cardiac surgery is a cumbersome topic. Over the last years, major cardiac surgical operations have been found to decrease due to the increasing number in transcatheter interventions. Becoming a cardiac surgeon has become partly a hard task. Since the beginning of 2020, the new coronavirus epidemic has been shaking peoples' lives all over the world, hindering every normal hospital activity including residency programs.
A systems theory approach to describe dynamic coupling at the cell–electrode interface
Authors: Bruno Ugo , Mariano Anna , Santoro Francesca
Published: January 2021

The optimization of the cell–chip coupling is one of the major challenges in bioelectronics. The cell–electrode interface is typically represented by an equivalent electrical circuit that can simulate the electrical behavior of neuronal cells coupled to microelectrodes. However, these circuital models do not take into account the highly dynamic mechanical behavior of cells. In fact, cells constantly remodel their cytoskeleton to preserve or adapt their shape to external mechanical cues. Hereby, we present a mathematical model along with a systems theory approach to numerical simulations, in order to study and predict cell–electrode interface dynamics over time. Both planar and pseudo-3D electrode designs have been considered, and their effect on the cell coupling for extracellular recordings has been investigated. In turn, this dynamic model can be exploited to provide fundamental parameters for future design of microelectrode arrays.
Evaluation of olfactory and visual cues to deter southern hairy-nosed wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons) from their burrows
Authors: O'Brien Casey , Sparrow Elisa , Dibben Ron , Ostendorf Bertram , Taggart David
Published: January 2021

Human–wildlife conflicts threaten a huge diversity of species and affect the livelihoods of millions of people. There is an increasing need to develop management strategies that meet the needs of humans and wildlife. A variety of conflict mitigation measures are available, but for many species like the southern hairy-nosed wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons) their effectiveness has not been scientifically tested. Deterrents could provide a cost effective and efficient means of reducing wombat damage to agriculture. Anecdotal accounts suggest that ‘Blood & Bone’ (a plant fertiliser) and compact discs may deter wombats. This study aimed to assess their effectiveness in deterring free-living wombats from burrows on agricultural land using remote cameras to monitor changes in activity and behaviour before and after treatment application. Mixed-effects models revealed a significant decrease in the number of visits to burrows following the application of compact discs (P<0.01). ‘Blood & Bone’ did not deter wombats from burrows (P=0.81), but increased exploratory behaviour (P=0.01) and decreased travelling behaviour (P=0.05) were observed. This suggests that visual cues may be more effective in deterring wombats from burrows than olfactory cues, possibly because they are more easily detected from further away.
The H. H. Finlayson mammal collection
Authors: Horner Paul , Johnson Ken
Published: January 2021

The extensive published works of Hedley Herbert Finlayson provide a major and widely recognised benchmark in the study of Australian mammals during the first half of the 1900s. His publications are still commonly cited in the literature, especially in relation to studies concerning the desert regions, but little has been documented of his extensive and extremely valuable private collection of almost 3000 expertly prepared study specimens. This paper provides a brief background to the man and reports a compilation of his surviving specimens, giving information on quantities, type and geographic origin of specimens, nomenclature and accession numbers. A transcription of his original register of specimens is also provided.