bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Making an Onboard Reference Map From MRO/CTX Imagery for Mars 2020 Lander Vision System
Authors: Cheng Yang , Ansar Adnan , Johnson Andrew
Published: July 2021

The Mars 2020 rover, Perseverance, landed in Jezero crater (18.4663°N, 77.4298°E) on February 18, 2021 to collect samples from Mars that could be returned to Earth by a future Mars Sample Return campaign. While providing a rich sampling opportunity, Jezero also contains numerous landing hazards including scarps, canyons, mesas, dune fields, rock fields, and smaller craters. The Mars 2020 onboard inertial navigation system, which is the same as that used by the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL), only provides a very coarse inertially propagated position, which can have error as large as 3.2 km. The Lander Vision System (LVS) was added to Mars 2020 to reduce this position knowledge error to less than 40 m with respect to an on‐board reference map of the landing area. LVS uses a reference map on board to compare with the descent images for lander localization during the terminal stage of Entry, Descent and Landing (EDL). Because the reference map is used directly during EDL, it is critical that it have as little spatial and photometric error as possible. Photometrically, it should resemble as much as possible the real descent images to allow reliable terrain matching. Spatially, it should match as faithfully as possible the real, underlying terrain and contribute minimal error to the final localization solution. On February 18, 2021, the LVS reference map passed its ultimate test. The LVS system executed Terrain Relative Navigation (TRN) flawlessly based on the LVS reference map. In addition to its use for TRN, the local hazard map is also registered to the LVS reference map so that the safe target selection (STS) system can select a safe and reachable landing site. The final error between the site targeted by the STS system and the real landing site is estimated at only 5 m. The exceptional performance of LVS indicates that the reference map met mission requirements with comfortable margin. LVS on Mars 2020 represents the first ever use of a reference map during spacecraft EDL. This breakthrough will have profound implications for future lander missions and the scope of scientific inquiry they are able to address. In this paper, we will describe the necessary precursor steps to building the Jezero Crater LVS map, including the methodology to dejitter Context Imager (CTX) images, improve the CTX sensor model, as well as the process used to validate the LVS map accuracy.
Assessing CryoSat‐2 Antarctic Snow Freeboard Retrievals Using Data From ICESat‐2
Authors: Fons S. W. , Kurtz N. T. , Bagnardi M. , Petty A. A. , Tilling R. L.
Published: July 2021

NASA's Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite‐2 (ICESat‐2) laser altimeter launched in Fall 2018, providing an invaluable addition to the polar altimetry record generated by ESA's CryoSat‐2 radar altimeter. The simultaneous operation of these two satellite altimeters enables unique comparison studies of sea ice altimetry, utilizing the different frequencies and profiling strategies of the two instruments. Here, we use freeboard data from ICESat‐2 to assess Antarctic snow freeboard retrievals from CryoSat‐2. We first discuss updates made to a previously published CryoSat‐2 retrieval process and show how this Version 2 algorithm improves upon the original method by comparing the new retrievals to ICESat‐2 in specific along‐track profiles as well as on the basin‐scale. In two near‐coincident along‐track profiles, we find mean snow freeboard differences (standard deviations of differences) of 0.3 (9.3) and 7.6 cm (9.6 cm) with 25 km binned correlation coefficients of 0.77 and 0.89. Monthly mean freeboard differences range between −2.9 (10.8) and 6.6 cm (16.8 cm) basin wide, with the largest differences typically occurring in Austral fall months that is hypothesized to be related to new ice growth and the use of static snow backscatter coefficients in the retrieval. Monthly mean correlation coefficients range between 0.57 and 0.80. While coincident data show good agreement between the two sensors, they highlight issues related to geometric and frequency sampling differences that can impact the freeboard distributions.
Mid‐Infrared Spectroscopy of Anorthosite Samples From Near Manicouagan Crater, Canada, as Analogue for Remote Sensing of Mercury and Other Terrestrial Solar System Objects
Authors: Reitze Maximilian P. , Weber Iris , Morlok Andreas , Hiesinger Harald , Bauch Karin E. , Stojic Aleksandra N. , Helbert Jörn
Published: July 2021

We investigated mid‐infrared reflectance spectra of anorthosite samples from Mt. Briand near the Manicouagan impact structure. Microprobe analyses of the plagioclase minerals reveal that they have a similar chemical composition (labradoritic), which is corroborated by the location of the Christiansen Feature at around 7.96 m (1256 cm−1). However, their respective spectral shapes differ from each other in the region of the reststrahlen bands. This is linked to the degree of Al,Si order within the plagioclase minerals, which also correlates with the previously assumed distance of the sample site to the impact melt. Powdering and sieving led to remarkable changes in the spectra resulting from different mechanical stability of minerals contained in the sample. Our data show that even very weakly shocked (6–10 GPa, shockstage S2) anorthosites could show spectra of Al,Si disordered plagioclase which we attribute to post shock heating after the impact shock. Consequently, the degree of Al,Si order has to be taken into account in the interpretation of remote sensing data. A comparison of synthetic linear mixture with an average Mercury spectrum reveals the possible presence of more or less anorthositic material with reduced degree of Al,Si order of the plagioclase component on Mercury's surface. The results of our study are helpful for the interpretation of data returned by space missions, especially for MERTIS ‐ an infrared spectrometer on its way to Mercury.
Structural Evolution of a Crustal‐Scale Seismogenic Fault in a Magmatic Arc: The Bolfin Fault Zone (Atacama Fault System)
Authors: Masoch Simone , Gomila Rodrigo , Fondriest Michele , Jensen Erik , Mitchell Thomas , Pennacchioni Giorgio , Cembrano José , Di Toro Giulio
Published: July 2021

How major crustal‐scale seismogenic faults nucleate and evolve in crystalline basements represents a long‐standing, but poorly understood, issue in structural geology and fault mechanics. Here, we address the spatio‐temporal evolution of the Bolfin Fault Zone (BFZ), a >40‐km‐long exhumed seismogenic splay fault of the 1000‐km‐long strike‐slip Atacama Fault System. The BFZ has a sinuous fault trace across the Mesozoic magmatic arc of the Coastal Cordillera (Northern Chile) and formed during the oblique subduction of the Aluk plate beneath the South American plate. Seismic faulting occurred at 5–7 km depth and ≤ 300°C in a fluid‐rich environment as recorded by extensive propylitic alteration and epidote‐chlorite veining. Ancient (125–118 Ma) seismicity is attested by the widespread occurrence of pseudotachylytes. Field geologic surveys indicate nucleation of the BFZ on precursory geometrical anisotropies represented by magmatic foliation of plutons (northern and central segments) and andesitic dyke swarms (southern segment) within the heterogeneous crystalline basement. Seismic faulting exploited the segments of precursory anisotropies that were optimal to favorably oriented with respect to the long‐term far‐stress field associated with the oblique ancient subduction. The large‐scale sinuous geometry of the BFZ resulted from the hard linkage of these anisotropy‐pinned segments during fault growth.
Cord blood metabolic signatures predictive of childhood overweight and rapid growth
Authors: Handakas Evangelos , Keski-Rahkonen Pekka , Chatzi Lida , Alfano Rossella , Roumeliotaki Theano , Plusquin Michelle , Maitre Léa , Richiardi Lorenzo , Brescianini Sonia , Scalbert Augustin , Robinot Nivonirina , Nawrot Tim , Sassi Franco , Vrijheid Martine , Vineis Paolo , Robinson Oliver
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Metabolomics may identify biological pathways predisposing children to the risk of overweight and obesity. In this study, we have investigated the cord blood metabolic signatures of rapid growth in infancy and overweight in early childhood in four European birth cohorts.

Methods

Untargeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry metabolomic profiles were measured in cord blood from 399 newborns from four European cohorts (ENVIRONAGE, Rhea, INMA and Piccolipiu). Rapid growth in the first year of life and overweight in childhood was defined with reference to WHO growth charts. Metabolome-wide association scans for rapid growth and overweight on over 4500 metabolic features were performed using multiple adjusted logistic mixed-effect models and controlling the false discovery rate (FDR) at 5%. In addition, we performed a look-up analysis of 43 pre-annotated metabolites, previously associated with birthweight or rapid growth.

Results

In the Metabolome-Wide Association Study analysis, we identified three and eight metabolites associated with rapid growth and overweight, respectively, after FDR correction. Higher levels of cholestenone, a cholesterol derivative produced by microbial catabolism, were predictive of rapid growth (p = 1.6 × 10−3). Lower levels of the branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) valine (p = 8.6 × 10−6) were predictive of overweight in childhood. The area under the receiver operator curve for multivariate prediction models including these metabolites and traditional risk factors was 0.77 for rapid growth and 0.82 for overweight, compared with 0.69 and 0.69, respectively, for models using traditional risk factors alone. Among the 43 pre-annotated metabolites, seven and five metabolites were nominally associated (P < 0.05) with rapid growth and overweight, respectively. The BCAA leucine, remained associated (1.6 × 10−3) with overweight after FDR correction.

Conclusion

The metabolites identified here may assist in the identification of children at risk of developing obesity and improve understanding of mechanisms involved in postnatal growth. Cholestenone and BCAAs are suggestive of a role of the gut microbiome and nutrient signalling respectively in child growth trajectories.
Wogonin protects glomerular podocytes by targeting Bcl-2-mediated autophagy and apoptosis in diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Liu Xue-qi , Jiang Ling , Li Yuan-yuan , Huang Yue-bo , Hu Xue-ru , Zhu Wei , Wang Xian , Wu Yong-gui , Meng Xiao-ming , Qi Xiang-ming
Published: July 2021

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of the microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus and a major cause of end-stage renal disease with limited treatment options. Wogonin is a flavonoid derived from the root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, which has shown a potent renoprotective effect. But the mechanisms of action in DKD are not fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the effects of wogonin on glomerular podocytes in DKD using mouse podocyte clone 5 (MPC5) cells and diabetic mice model. MPC5 cells were treated with high glucose (30 mM). We showed that wogonin (4, 8, 16 μM) dose-dependently alleviated high glucose (HG)-induced MPC5 cell damage, accompanied by increased expression of WT-1, nephrin, and podocin proteins, and decreased expression of TNF-α, MCP-1, IL-1β as well as phosphorylated p65. Furthermore, wogonin treatment significantly inhibited HG-induced apoptosis in MPC5 cells. Wogonin reversed HG-suppressed autophagy in MPC5 cells, evidenced by increased ATG7, LC3-II, and Beclin-1 protein, and decreased p62 protein. We demonstrated that wogonin directly bound to Bcl-2 in MPC5 cells. In HG-treated MPC5 cells, knockdown of Bcl-2 abolished the beneficial effects of wogonin, whereas overexpression of Bcl-2 mimicked the protective effects of wogonin. Interestingly, we found that the expression of Bcl-2 was significantly decreased in biopsy renal tissue of diabetic nephropathy patients. In vivo experiments were conducted in STZ-induced diabetic mice, which were administered wogonin (10, 20, 40 mg · kg−1 · d−1, i.g.) every other day for 12 weeks. We showed that wogonin administration significantly alleviated albuminuria, histopathological lesions, and p65 NF-κB-mediated renal inflammatory response. Wogonin administration dose-dependently inhibited podocyte apoptosis and promoted podocyte autophagy in STZ-induced diabetic mice. This study for the first time demonstrates a novel action of wogonin in mitigating glomerulopathy and podocytes injury by regulating Bcl-2-mediated crosstalk between autophagy and apoptosis. Wogonin may be a potential therapeutic drug against DKD.
Transcriptome profiles of stem-like cells from primary breast cancers allow identification of ITGA7 as a predictive marker of chemotherapy response
Authors: Gwili Noha , Jones Stacey J. , Amri Waleed Al , Carr Ian M. , Harris Sarah , Hogan Brian V. , Hughes William E. , Kim Baek , Langlands Fiona E. , Millican-Slater Rebecca A. , Pramanik Arindam , Thorne James L. , Verghese Eldo T. , Wells Geoff , Hamza Mervat , Younis Layla , El Deeb Nevine M. F. , Hughes Thomas A.
Published: July 2021

Background

Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are drivers of therapy-resistance, therefore are responsible for poor survival. Molecular signatures of BCSCs from primary cancers remain undefined. Here, we identify the consistent transcriptome of primary BCSCs shared across breast cancer subtypes, and we examine the clinical relevance of ITGA7, one of the genes differentially expressed in BCSCs.

Methods

Primary BCSCs were assessed using immunohistochemistry and fluorescently labelled using Aldefluor (n = 17). Transcriptomes of fluorescently sorted BCSCs and matched non-stem cancer cells were determined using RNA-seq (n = 6). ITGA7 expression was examined in breast cancers using immunohistochemistry (n = 305), and its functional role was tested using siRNA in breast cancer cells.

Results

Proportions of BCSCs varied from 0 to 9.4%. 38 genes were significantly differentially expressed in BCSCs; genes were enriched for functions in vessel morphogenesis, motility, and metabolism. ITGA7 was found to be significantly downregulated in BCSCs, and low expression significantly correlated with reduced survival in patients treated with chemotherapy, and with chemoresistance in breast cancer cells in vitro.

Conclusions

This study is the first to define the molecular profile of BCSCs from a range of primary breast cancers. ITGA7 acts as a predictive marker for chemotherapy response, in accordance with its downregulation in BCSCs.
Continuous control of classical-quantum crossover by external high pressure in the coupled chain compound CsCuCl3
Authors: Yamamoto Daisuke , Sakurai Takahiro , Okuto Ryosuke , Okubo Susumu , Ohta Hitoshi , Tanaka Hidekazu , Uwatoko Yoshiya
Published: July 2021

In solid materials, the parameters relevant to quantum effects, such as the spin quantum number, are basically determined and fixed at the chemical synthesis, which makes it challenging to control the amount of quantum correlations. We propose and demonstrate a method for active control of the classical-quantum crossover in magnetic insulators by applying external pressure. As a concrete example, we perform high-field, high-pressure measurements on CsCuCl3, which has the structure of weakly-coupled spin chains. The magnetization process experiences a continuous evolution from the semi-classical realm to the highly-quantum regime with increasing pressure. Based on the idea of "squashing” the spin chains onto a plane, we characterize the change in the quantum correlations by the change in the value of the local spin quantum number of an effective two-dimensional model. This opens a way to access the tunable classical-quantum crossover of two-dimensional spin systems by using alternative systems of coupled-chain compounds.
The blue carbon wealth of nations
Authors: Bertram Christine , Quaas Martin , Reusch Thorsten B. H. , Vafeidis Athanasios T. , Wolff Claudia , Rickels Wilfried
Published: July 2021

Carbon sequestration and storage in mangroves, salt marshes and seagrass meadows is an essential coastal ‘blue carbon’ ecosystem service for climate change mitigation. Here we offer a comprehensive, global and spatially explicit economic assessment of carbon sequestration and storage in three coastal ecosystem types at the global and national levels. We propose a new approach based on the country-specific social cost of carbon that allows us to calculate each country’s contribution to, and redistribution of, global blue carbon wealth. Globally, coastal ecosystems contribute a mean ± s.e.m. of US$190.67 ± 30 bn yr−1 to blue carbon wealth. The three countries generating the largest positive net blue wealth contribution for other countries are Australia, Indonesia and Cuba, with Australia alone generating a positive net benefit of US$22.8 ± 3.8 bn yr−1 for the rest of the world through coastal ecosystem carbon sequestration and storage in its territory.
Pupil dilation predicts individual self-regulation success across domains
Authors: Maier Silvia U. , Grueschow Marcus
Published: July 2021

Multiple theories have proposed that increasing central arousal through the brain’s locus coeruleus—norepinephrine system may facilitate cognitive control and memory. However, the role of the arousal system in emotion regulation is less well understood. Pupil diameter is a proxy to infer upon the central arousal state. We employed an emotion regulation paradigm with a combination of design features that allowed us to dissociate regulation from emotional arousal in the pupil diameter time course of 34 healthy adults. Pupil diameter increase during regulation predicted individual differences in emotion regulation success beyond task difficulty. Moreover, the extent of this individual regulatory arousal boost predicted performance in another self-control task, dietary health challenges. Participants who harnessed more regulation-associated arousal during emotion regulation were also more successful in choosing healthier foods. These results suggest that a common arousal-based facilitation mechanism may support an individual’s self-control across domains.
A systematic review of the usefulness of magnetic resonance imaging in predicting the gait ability of stroke patients
Authors: Imura Takeshi , Mitsutake Tsubasa , Iwamoto Yuji , Tanaka Ryo
Published: July 2021

The usefulness of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in predicting gait ability in stroke patients remains unclear. Therefore, MRI evaluations have not yet been standardized in stroke rehabilitation. We performed a systematic review to consolidate evidence regarding the use of MRIs in predicting gait ability of stroke patients. The Medline, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and SCOPUS databases were comprehensively searched. We included all literature published from each source’s earliest date to August 2020. We included 19 studies: 8 were classified as structure- or function-based MRI studies and 11 as neural tract integrity-based MRI studies. Most structure- or function-based MRI studies indicated that damage to motor-related areas (primary motor cortex, corona radiata, internal capsule, and basal ganglia) or insula was related to poor gait recovery. In neural tract integrity-based MRI studies, integrity of the corticospinal tract was related to gait ability. Some studies reported predictive value of the corticoreticular pathway. All included studies had some concerns, at least one, based on the Cochrane risk of bias instrument. This review suggests that MRIs are useful in predicting gait ability of stroke patients. However, we cannot make definitive conclusion regarding the predictive value, due to the lack of quantitative evaluations.
Prediction of survival in patients with advanced, refractory colorectal cancer in treatment with trifluridine/tipiracil: real-world vs clinical trial data
Authors: Fernández Montes Ana , Carmona-Bayonas Alberto , Jimenez-Fonseca Paula , Vázquez Rivera Francisca , Martinez Lago Nieves , Covela Rúa Marta , Cousillas Castiñeiras Antía , Gonzalez Villarroel Paula , De la Cámara Gómez Juan , Méndez José Carlos Méndez , Carriles Fernández Carmen , Sanchez Cánovas Manuel , Garcia García Teresa
Published: July 2021

Trifluridine/tipiracil increases overall survival (OS) in patients with refractory, metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). A post hoc exploratory analysis of the RECOURSE randomized clinical trial (RCT) established two categories, a good prognosis corresponding to subjects having a low tumor burden and indolent disease. Other models in refractory mCRC are the FAS-CORRECT and Colon Life nomogram. The main objective was to externally validate the prognostic factors of the RECOURSE and FAS-CORRECT trials, and the Colon Life nomogram in a multicenter, real-world series of mCRC treated in 3rd and successive lines with trifluridine/tipiracil. The secondary aim was to develop an OS predictive model, TAS-RECOSMO. Between 2016 and 2019, 244 patients were recruited. Median OS was 8.15 vs 8.12 months for the poor (85% of the subjects) and good (15%) prognosis groups from the RESOURCE trial, respectively, log-rank p = 0.9. The most common grade 3–4 toxicities were neutropenia (17%), asthenia (6%), and anemia (5%). The AFT lognormal model TAS-RECOSMO included six variables: ECOG-PS, KRAS/NRAS/BRAF mutation status, time between diagnosis of metastasis and beginning of trifluridine/tipiracil, NLR, CEA, and alkaline phosphatase. The model’s bootstrapped bias-corrected c-index was 0.682 (95% CI, 0.636–0.722). The factors from the Colon Life model, FAS-CORRECT, and RECOURSE displayed a c-index of 0.690, 0.630, and 0.507, respectively. TAS-RECOSMO, FAS-CORRECT, and the Colon Life nomogram appear to predict OS in patients with refractory mCCR who begin trifluridine/tipiracil treatment in the real world. The prognostic groups of the RECOURCE RCT were unable to capture the situation of real-world subjects treated with trifluridine/tipiracil in this series.
Effect of land-use change along altitudinal gradients on soil micronutrients in the mountain ecosystem of Indian (Eastern) Himalaya
Authors: Choudhury Burhan U. , Ansari Meraj A. , Chakraborty Mahasweta , Meetei Thounaojam T.
Published: July 2021

Management of soil micronutrients for better crop production needs a sound understanding of their status and causes of variability. This is more relevant for acid soils of the mountain ecosystem of Eastern Himalaya (Northeast India). We assessed the status, and the effect of land uses along altitudinal gradients (14 to 4090 masl) on soil properties and micronutrient concentrations (DTPA extractable Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn) across the region. Soils varied widely in micronutrient concentrations: Fe from 0.665 to 257.1 mg kg−1 while Mn, Cu, and Zn from traces to 93.4, 17.1, and 34.2 mg kg−1, respectively. On conversion of evergreen forests (EF) to upland agriculture (Shifting—SC and Settled—SA) and plantation (PH), Mn, Cu, and Zn concentrations decreased significantly from 30.5, 1.74, and 2.13 mg kg−1 to 6.44–17.8, 0.68–0.81, and 1.06–1.42 mg kg−1, respectively. Grassland (GL) and lowland paddy (LP) had comparable Fe, Mn, and Cu concentrations (except Zn). Degradation of EF to scrubland (SL) recorded the lowest Mn (5.91 mg kg−1), Cu (0.59 mg kg−1), and Zn (0.68 mg kg−1) concentrations. Fe concentration was however increased in degraded SL (+ 73%) over EF (48.7 mg kg−1). The distribution of micronutrients among the land uses was inconsistent and followed the order: (i) Fe: SL > PH > LP > EF > GL > SC > SA, (ii) Mn: EF > GL > LP > PH > SC > SA > SL; (iii) Cu: EF > GL > LP > SC > SA = PH > SL; and (iv) Zn: GL > EF > LP > SC > SA > PH > SL. Four micronutrients responded differently and followed a non-linear, 6th—order polynomial trend along the altitudinal gradients (< 500 to 4100 masl). Peak concentrations of Fe, Mn, and Cu were recorded at 1001–2000 m while Zn was recorded at > 4000 masl. The variability (54–64%) in soil micronutrients was mainly controlled by three key soil properties: acidity, clay, and organic carbon contents. Thus, altitude-specific land-use management holds significance in the distribution of available soil micronutrients in hilly ecosystems.
Flexible oxygen concentrators for medical applications
Authors: Arora Akhil , Hasan M. M. Faruque
Published: July 2021

Medical oxygen concentrators (MOCs) are used for supplying medical grade oxygen to prevent hypoxemia-related complications related to COVID-19, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. MOCs often use a technology called pressure swing adsorption (PSA), which relies on nitrogen-selective adsorbents for producing oxygen from ambient air. MOCs are often designed for fixed product specifications, thereby limiting their use in meeting varying product specifications caused by a change in patient’s medical condition or activity. To address this limitation, we design and optimize flexible single-bed MOC systems that are capable of meeting varying product specification requirements. Specifically, we employ a simulation-based optimization framework for optimizing flexible PSA- and pressure vacuum swing adsorption (PVSA)-based MOC systems. Detailed optimization studies are performed to benchmark the performance limits of LiX, LiLSX and 5A zeolite adsorbents. The results indicate that LiLSX outperforms both LiX and 5A, and can produce 90% pure oxygen at 21.7 L/min. Moreover, the LiLSX-based flexible PVSA system can manufacture varying levels of oxygen purity and flow rate in the range 93–95.7% and 1–15 L/min, respectively. The flexible MOC technology paves way for transitioning to an envisioned cyber-physical system with real-time oxygen demand sensing and delivery for improved patient care.
Bioremediation of polluted soil due to tsunami by using recycled waste glass
Authors: Moqsud M. Azizul
Published: July 2021

In this research, bioremediation of tsunami-affected polluted soil has been conducted by using collective microorganisms and recycled waste glass. The Tohoku earthquake, which was a mega earthquake in Japan triggered a huge tsunami on March 11th, 2011 that caused immeasurable damage to the geo-environmental conditions by polluting the soil with heavy metals and excessive salt content. Traditional methods to clean this polluted soil was not possible due to the excess cost and efforts. Laboratory experiments were conducted to examine the capability of bioremediation of saline soil by using recycled waste glass. Different collective microorganisms which were incubated inside the laboratory were used. The electrical conductivity (EC) was measured at different specified depths. It was noticed that the electrical conductivity decreased with the assist of the microbial metabolisms significantly. Collective microorganisms (CM2) were the highly capable to reduce salinity (up to 75%) while using recycled waste glass as their habitat.
H-plane horn antenna with enhanced directivity using conformal transformation optics
Authors: Eskandari Hossein , Albadalejo-Lijarcio Juan Luis , Zetterstrom Oskar , Tyc Tomáš , Quevedo-Teruel Oscar
Published: July 2021

Conformal transformation optics is employed to enhance an H-plane horn’s directivity by designing a graded-index all-dielectric lens. The transformation is applied so that the phase error at the aperture is gradually eliminated inside the lens, leading to a low-profile high-gain lens antenna. The physical space shape is modified such that singular index values are avoided, and the optical path inside the lens is rescaled to eliminate superluminal regions. A prototype of the lens is fabricated using three-dimensional printing. The measurement results show that the realized gain of an H-plane horn antenna can be improved by 1.5–2.4 dB compared to a reference H-plane horn.
A quantitative assessment of aorta root rotation in patients with tetralogy of Fallot evaluated by MSCT
Authors: Romeih Soha , Kaoud Alaa , Hashem Mohamed , Abdelfattah Mohamed , Gibreel Mohamed , Elzoghby Mohamed , Shaaban Mahmoud , Mozy Wesam El
Published: July 2021

Lack of conal rotation and conal malseptation is a characteristic anatomical feature for TOF which lead to dextroposed position of aorta and significant RVOT narrowing. The quantitative assessment of these anatomical features using modern cardiac imaging modality has been rarely discussed in the literature. All TOF scanned had in our center from 2013 till 2019 were included. The angle of aortic root rotation was recorded by measuring the angle between a line connecting the midpoint of the non-coronary sinus to the anterior commissure and another line along the interatrial septum. Rotation angles were correlated with proximal main pulmonary artery (MPA) size indexed to BSA. 287 TOF patients were included, 258 patients (91%) had TOF with pulmonary stenosis (TOF-PS) including 138 male (54%), median age 2 years (2 months–40 years), and 29 patients (9%) had TOF with pulmonary atresia (TOF-PA) including 17 male (59%), median age 5 years (1 m-33 years). The whole cases demonstrated clockwise rotation of the aortic root. The mean rotation angle in TOF-PS group was 52.6 ± 20.9° and in TOF-PA group was 64.9 ± 13.9°. Proximal MPA diameter was 11.1 ± 5.9 mm/m2. There was a significant negative correlation between aortic root rotation angle and proximal MPA diameter (r = − 0.262, P = 0.000). The rotation angle of aortic root was significantly higher in TOF-PA compared to TOF-PS (64.9 ± 13.9° vs. 52.6 ± 20.9°, P = 0.001, respectively). MSCT provide a quantitative measurement methodology of conal malseptation and its effect in TOF patients. There is a clockwise rotation angle of the aortic root in TOF patients that correlates negatively with proximal MPA size. TOF-PA have a larger rotation angle of aortic root.
Characterizing the highest tropical cyclone frequency in the Western North Pacific since 1984
Authors: Basconcillo Joseph , Cha Eun-Jeong , Moon Il-Ju
Published: July 2021

The 2018 boreal summer in the Western North Pacific (WNP) is highlighted by 17 tropical cyclones (TC)—the highest record during the reported reliable years of TC observations. We contribute to the existing knowledge pool on this extreme TC frequency record by showing that the simultaneous highest recorded intensity of the WNP summer monsoon prompted the eastward extension of the monsoon trough and enhancement of tropical convective activities, which are both favorable for TC development. Such changes in the WNP summer monsoon environment led to the extreme TC frequency record during the 2018 boreal summer. Meanwhile, the highest record in TC frequency and the intensity of the WNP summer monsoon are both attributed with the combined increase in the anomalous westerlies originating from the cold tropical Indian Ocean sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies drawn towards the convective heat source that is associated with the warm central Pacific SST anomalies. Our results provide additional insights in characterizing above normal tropical cyclone and summer monsoon activities in the WNP in understanding seasonal predictable horizons in the WNP, and in support of disaster risk and impact reduction.
Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa), compared with cellulose and psyllium, influences the histology and mucus layer of the gastrointestinal tract in the growing pig
Authors: Montoya Carlos A. , Henare Sharon J. , O'Donoghue Erin M. , Rosendale Douglas , Edwards Patrick , Moughan Paul J.
Published: July 2021

The histology and mucus layer of the upper and lower gut of the pig model were changed when cellulose was partially substituted by psyllium and kiwifruit at a practically relevant dietary intake for humans.
Portable self-flowing platform for filtration separation of samples
Authors: Hsiao Shu-Wei , Chen Yu-Jen , Huang Jung-Tang
Published: July 2021

Microfluidic channel separation system composed of a PDMS cover, a PMMA substrate, a biosensing chip in the detection zone and a golden-finger signal output.
A turn-on probe for detecting antituberculotic drug-induced liver injury in mice via NIR-II fluorescence/optoacoustic imaging
Authors: Chen Longqi , Chen Junjie , Fang Yichang , Zeng Fang , Wu Shuizhu
Published: July 2021

A turn-on probe has been devised for detecting antituberculotic-drug-induced liver injury via responding to the in situ biomarker hepatic H2O2 with NIR-II fluorescence and MSOT imaging.
Synthesis of a phosphomolybdate with a tetranuclear vanadium core by installing vanadium atoms in a lacunary template using the protecting group strategy
Authors: Li Chifeng , Yamaguchi Kazuya , Suzuki Kosuke
Published: July 2021

We report the selective synthesis of a phosphomolybdate possessing a tetranuclear vanadium core by installing vanadium to a lacunary template using the protecting group strategy.
Metabolic iron detection through divalent metal transporter 1 and ferroportin mediated cocktail fluorogenic probes
Authors: Zhao Yu-Qiang , Duan Jiahong , Yu Le , Kim Ilwha , Wang Yumin , Ma Yi-Cheng , Zou Cheng-Gang , Zhou Ying , Zhang Jun Feng , Kim Jong Seung
Published: July 2021

A cocktail [1 + 2] dual-fluorescent probe system could realize the real-time visualization of dynamic iron state changes between Fe2+ and Fe3+.
A plastically bendable and polar organic crystal
Authors: Kusumoto Sotaro , Sugimoto Akira , Kosumi Daisuke , Kim Yang , Sekine Yoshihiro , Nakamura Masaaki , Hayami Shinya
Published: July 2021

An organic crystal of the polar space groupPcthat is capable of plastic bending is reported, and its high dielectric constant and strong second-order harmonic generation (SHG) effect have been demonstrated.
A computational probe granting insight into intra and inter-stacking interactions in squaraine dye derivatives
Authors: Gunturu Krishna Chaitanya , Schulzke Carola
Published: July 2021

Insights into intra- and inter-stack interactions in Squaraine derivatives from a computational study.
Picture-change correction in relativistic density functional theory
Authors: Ikabata Yasuhiro , Nakai Hiromi
Published: July 2021

The picture-change-corrected two-component relativistic density functional theory (PCC-2c-DFT) adopts the correctly transformed electron density, exchange–correlation potential, and two-electron operator.
Wide-angle X-ray scattering and molecular dynamics simulations of supercooled protein hydration water
Authors: Bin Maddalena , Yousif Rafat , Berkowicz Sharon , Das Sudipta , Schlesinger Daniel , Perakis Fivos
Published: July 2021

We investigate hydrated proteins by decomposing the water and protein components and we observe that the protein signal is nearly temperature independent, whereas that of hydration water exhibits a trend similar to bulk water.
Thermodynamic and structural features of chlorodifluoromethane (a sI–sII dual hydrate former) + external guest (N2 or CH4) hydrates and their significance for greenhouse gas separation
Authors: Mok Junghoon , Lim Junkyu , Choi Wonjung , Yun Soyeong , Lee Joonseop , Ko Gyeol , Seo Yongwon
Published: July 2021

A new sI–sII dual hydrate former [chlorodifluoromethane (CHClF2); an important greenhouse gas with a global warming potential of 1810] was introduced and closely investigated for its potential significance in gas hydrate-based gas separation.
ctc-[Pt(NH3)2(cinnamate)(valproate)Cl2] is a highly potent and low-toxic triple action anticancer prodrug
Authors: Li Yang , Shi Shan , Zhang Shurong , Gan Zongjie , Wang Xin , Zhao Xudong , Zhu Yijian , Cao Meiting , Wang Xiaoyue , Li Wei
Published: July 2021

The Cin-Pt(iv)-Val prodrug exerts more effective anti-tumor activities in vitro and in vivo than cisplatin by a synergistic mechanism involving DNA damage and inhibition of HDAC and MMP-2 and 9 activities.
Dry heated sorghum BRS 305 hybrid flour as a source of resistant starch and tannins improves inflammation and oxidative stress in Wistar rats fed with a high-fat high-fructose diet
Authors: Martinez Oscar David Medina , Theodoro Jaqueline Maciel Vieira , Grancieri Mariana , Toledo Renata Celi Lopes , de Barros Frederico Augusto Ribeiro , Tako Elad , Queiroz Valéria Aparecida Vieira , Martino Hércia Stampini Duarte
Published: July 2021

Phenolic compounds present in sorghum showed highin silicointeraction with Akt and p65-NFκB. Sorghum increases the antioxidant capacity and reduced inflammation in the plasma and liver of animals, improving metabolic changes induced by HFHF diet.
Antarctic krill-derived peptides with consecutive Glu residues enhanced iron binding, solubility, and absorption
Authors: Hu Shengjie , Lin Songyi , Wang Di , Zhang Shuyue , Sun Na
Published: July 2021

Exploration of the iron-binding properties, digestive stability, and effectiveness on enhancing iron solubility and absorption of Antarctic Krill-derived peptides with consecutive Glu residues.
A scalable waste-free biorefinery inspires revenue from holistic lignocellulose valorization
Authors: Xu Jikun , Zhou Pengfei , Dai Lin , Gui Yang , Yuan Lan , Shen Xiaojun , Zhang Chuntao , Huo Kaifu
Published: July 2021

With the emergence of waste-free biorefineries, we bring a prelude of using a sustainable tandem approach to maneuver the revenue from complete lignocellulose utilization.
Inertial focusing of circulating tumor cells in whole blood at high flow rates using the microfluidic CTCKey™ device for CTC enrichment
Authors: Smith Kaylee Judith , Jana Jessica Antoinette , Kaehr Anna , Purcell Emma , Opdycke Tyler , Paoletti Costanza , Cooling Laura , Thamm Douglas H. , Hayes Daniel F. , Nagrath Sunitha
Published: July 2021

The CTCKey™ inertially focuses MCF7 breast cancer cells in whole blood.
A thioridazine hydrochloride electrochemical sensor based on zeolitic imidazolate framework-67-functionalized bio-mobile crystalline material-41 carbon quantum dots
Authors: Habibi Biuck , Pashazadeh Sara , Saghatforoush Lotf Ali , Pashazadeh Ali
Published: July 2021

In this research, we introduce an innovative nanocomposite based on ZIF-67/Bio-MCM-41/CQDs in order to fabricate a novel electrochemical sensor at the glassy carbon electrode and for the first time applied for the electrodetermination of the thioridazine hydrochloride.
Design of an electrochemical platform for the determination of diclofenac sodium utilizing a graphenized pencil graphite electrode modified with a Cu–Al layered double hydroxide/chicken feet yellow membrane
Authors: Bahadori Younes , Razmi Habib
Published: July 2021

A novel electrochemical sensor based on a Cu–Al layered double hydroxide (Cu–Al LDH)/chicken feet yellow membrane (CFYM) modified graphenized pencil graphite electrode (GPGE) was designed.
A novel AIE fluorescent probe based on myrtenal for Cu2+ detection in a near-perfect aqueous medium and bioimaging in vegetables and zebrafish
Authors: Zhang Chenglong , Zhang Yan , Li Mingxin , Gong Shuai , Gao Yu , Yang Yiqin , Wang Zhonglong , Wang Shifa
Published: July 2021

An AIE-active fluorescent probe MHTS with good sensitivity and selectivity for the detection of Cu2+ was synthesized from myrtenal.
De-alloyed PtCu/C catalysts with enhanced electrocatalytic performance for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Xiao Zhuojie , Wu Hao , Zhong Huichi , Abdelhafiz Ali , Zeng Jianhuang
Published: July 2021

After electrochemical de-alloying, PtCu/C catalyst with a rich Pt shell demonstrated an enhanced ORR activity and superior durability.
1,10/1,11-Cyclization catalyzed by diverged plant sesquiterpene synthases is dependent on a single residue
Authors: Huang Jin-Quan , Li Dong-Mei , Li Jian-Xu , Lin Jia-Ling , Tian Xiu , Wang Ling-Jian , Chen Xiao-Ya , Fang Xin
Published: July 2021

A conserved amino acid residue responsible for the 1,10- or 1,11-cyclization of FDP was identified in sesquiterpene synthases of different sources and functions, shedding new light on the mechanisms of sesquiterpene cyclization.
Transition-metal free synthesis of N-aryl carbazoles and their extended analogs
Authors: Feofanov Mikhail , Akhmetov Vladimir , Takayama Ryo , Amsharov Konstantin
Published: July 2021

Herein, we describe a facile synthesis of N-heteroacenes via ladderization of fluorinated oligophenylenes.
Single crystal Ni-rich layered cathodes enabling superior performance in all-solid-state batteries with PEO-based solid electrolytes
Authors: Yi Maoyi , Li Jie , Fan Xinming , Bai Maohui , Zhang Zhi , Hong Bo , Zhang Zhian , Hu Guorong , Jiang Huai , Lai Yanqing
Published: July 2021

Single-crystal Ni-rich cathodes in ASSBs with PEO-based electrolytes show higher Li+ diffusion coefficients, higher specific capacities, and more stable cycling performances relative to polycrystalline cathodes. This is due to the lack of grain boundaries in the structure.
Multiple roles of haem in cystathionine β-synthase activity: implications for hemin and other therapies of acute hepatic porphyria
Authors: Badawy Abdulla A.-B.
Published: July 2021

The role of haem in the activity of cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) is reviewed and a hypothesis postulating multiple effects of haem on enzyme activity under conditions of haem excess or deficiency is proposed, with implications for some therapies of acute hepatic porphyrias. CBS utilises both haem and pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP) as cofactors. Although haem does not participate directly in the catalytic process, it is vital for PLP binding to the enzyme and potentially also for CBS stability. Haem deficiency can therefore undermine CBS activity by impairing PLP binding and facilitating CBS degradation. Excess haem can also impair CBS activity by inhibiting it via CO resulting from haem induction of haem oxygenase 1 (HO 1), and by induction of a functional vitamin B6 deficiency following activation of hepatic tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) and subsequent utilisation of PLP by enhanced kynurenine aminotransferase (KAT) and kynureninase (Kynase) activities. CBS inhibition results in accumulation of the cardiovascular risk factor homocysteine (Hcy) and evidence is emerging for plasma Hcy elevation in patients with acute hepatic porphyrias. Decreased CBS activity may also induce a proinflammatory state, inhibit expression of haem oxygenase and activate the extrahepatic kynurenine pathway (KP) thereby further contributing to the Hcy elevation. The hypothesis predicts likely changes in CBS activity and plasma Hcy levels in untreated hepatic porphyria patients and in those receiving hemin or certain gene-based therapies. In the present review, these aspects are discussed, means of testing the hypothesis in preclinical experimental settings and porphyric patients are suggested and potential nutritional and other therapies are proposed.
Development and Resolution of Nasal Fricatives in a Child With Repaired Bilateral Cleft Lip and Palate: A Case Report
Authors: Zajac David J. , Powell Juliana , McQuillan Margaret
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This case report describes the development, characteristics, and resolution of anterior nasal fricatives (ANFs)—a learned maladaptive articulation error—in a young girl with repaired bilateral cleft lip and palate.

Method

The girl was observed every 2 months from 12 to 24 months of age with follow-ups at 36, 48, and 67 months of age.

Results

At 12 months of age, the girl nasalized /b/ inconsistently and had mild conductive hearing loss. At 18 months of age, she exhibited audible nasal air emission on some plosives and used ANFs to replace /s/ and /z/, often with a nasal grimace. At 24 months of age, the child continued to experience mild conductive hearing loss, obligatory nasal air emission, and ANFs for /s/ and /z/. At 36 months of age, pressure-flow testing documented significant velopharyngeal (VP) dysfunction. The girl then used ANFs for /f/ and /s/, phonetically marked by different oral stops. At 48 months of age, although VP impairment continued, speech therapy largely eliminated ANFs. By 67 months of age, VP closure was nearly normal.

Conclusions

Multiple factors including VP dysfunction, audible nasal air emission, and conductive hearing loss contributed to the development of ANFs. Clinical and etiological implications are discussed.
Optimization approach to the aircraft weight and balance problem with the centre of gravity envelope constraints
Authors: Zhao Xiangling , Yuan Yuan , Dong Yun , Zhao Ren
Published: July 2021

The aircraft weight and balance problem (WBP) defined in terms of selecting unit load devices (ULDs) from an available set and allocating them to specified positions in cargo holds. It is critical to aircraft safety as well as operational efficiency and profit. It is an NP‐hard problem combining characteristics of the knapsack problem and generalized assignment problems, as well as complex practical constraints. A mixed integer programming model is constructed to maximize the total payload and minimize the center of gravity (CG) deviation by considering the constraints of positions, weights, balance etc. In contrast to prior studies using a constant delta to limit CG deviation, a new set of CG envelope constraints is proposed based on the variation in actual CG under different statuses and precise describing CG. A linearizing strategy is further designed to simplify the nonlinear CG envelope constraints. The proposed model can be solved using commercial optimization software within a few seconds and maintain the CG within the designated CG envelope in all test instances; in contrast, the other (CG deviation‐based) method may result in flight hazards in some scenarios.
Wave energy converter platform stabilisation and mooring load reduction through power take‐off control
Authors: Hillis A.J. , Courtney C.R.P. , Brask A.
Published: July 2021

Mooring systems are a significant capital cost of a floating wave energy converter and their premature failure negatively impacts operational costs. Excessive peak loads and accumulated fatigue damage can lead to failure, so these factors are cost drivers in wave energy converter design. Here, the potential to reduce platform motion and mooring loads through modification of the power take‐off (PTO) control are investigated. An approximate velocity tracking control strategy is implemented with a linear quadratic regulator design method using differential weighting of system states. It is demonstrated that the controller can be tuned to capture similar mean power to an optimally tuned, passively damped system while significantly reducing mooring line cyclic loading. The relative accumulated fatigue damage in the mooring lines in a high energy sea‐state is found to be reduced by between 43% and 92% as a result of using the approximate velocity tracking control strategy.
Exoplanet X-ray irradiation and evaporation rates with eROSITA
Authors: Foster G. , Poppenhaeger K. , Ilic N. , Schwope A.
Published: July 2021

High-energy irradiation is a driver for atmospheric evaporation and mass loss in exoplanets. This work is based on data from eROSITA, the soft X-ray instrument on board the Spectrum Roentgen Gamma mission, as well as on archival data from other missions. We aim to characterise the high-energy environment of known exoplanets and estimate their mass-loss rates. We use X-ray source catalogues from eROSITA,XMM-Newton, Chandra,and ROSAT to derive X-ray luminosities of exoplanet host stars in the 0.2–2 keV energy band with an underlying coronal, that is, optically thin thermal spectrum. We present a catalogue of stellar X-ray and EUV luminosities, exoplanetary X-ray and EUV irradiation fluxes, and estimated mass-loss rates for a total of 287 exoplanets, 96 of which are characterised for the first time based on new eROSITA detections. We identify 14 first-time X-ray detections of transiting exoplanets that are subject to irradiation levels known to cause observable evaporation signatures in other exoplanets. This makes them suitable targets for follow-up observations.
Increasing the energy efficiency of the city-forming organizations of ferrous metallurgy
Authors: Kunanbaeva Kymbat , Niyazbekova Shakizada , Olzheken Symbat , Ryabichenko Sergey
Published: July 2021

The issues of increasing the energy efficiency of the city-forming organizations of ferrous metallurgy are considered in this paper. Ferrous metallurgy is characterized by a high concentration of city-forming organizations, high social significance, and high energy intensity. The paper studies the issues of energy consumption of the city-forming organizations of ferrous metallurgy, highlights the directions for increasing the efficiency of the use of energy resources.