bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using percentiles in the interpretation of Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System scores: Guidelines for autism
Authors: Schuchard Julia , Kaplan‐Kahn Elizabeth A. , Carle Adam C. , Holmes Laura Graham , Law Kiely , Miller Judith S. , Parish‐Morris Julia , Forrest Christopher B.
Published: October 2022

The objectives of this study were to (1) demonstrate the application of percentiles to advance the interpretation of patient‐reported outcomes and (2) establish autism‐specific percentiles for four Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) measures. PROMIS measures were completed by parents of autistic children and adolescents ages 5–17 years as part of two studies (n = 939 parents in the first study and n = 406 parents in the second study). Data from the first study were used to develop autism‐specific percentiles for PROMIS parent‐proxy sleep disturbance, sleep‐related impairment, fatigue, and anxiety. Previously established United States general population percentiles were applied to interpret PROMIS scores in both studies. Results of logistic regression models showed that parent‐reported material hardship was associated with scoring in the moderate–severe range (defined as ≥75th percentile in the general population) on all four PROMIS measures (odds ratios 1.7–2.2). In the second study, the percentage of children with severe scores (defined as ≥95th percentile in the general population) was 30% for anxiety, 25% for sleep disturbance, and 17% for sleep‐related impairment, indicating a high burden of these problems among autistic children. Few children had scores at or above the autism‐specific 95th percentile on these measures (3%–4%), indicating that their scores were similar to other autistic children. The general population and condition‐specific percentiles provide two complementary reference points to aid interpretation of PROMIS scores, including corresponding severity categories that are comparable across different PROMIS measures.
Benchmark your department, team for professional development success
Authors: Skipworth Stan
Published: October 2022

As another year steadily comes to its end and makes room for another, we all seemingly begin to allow ourselves time to consider new goals we wish to achieve. These may be personal — perhaps to accomplish a new level of health or fitness, completing an academic endeavor, or tackling a home improvement project. These goals could also be professional: seeking to gain a key assignment or promotion, or completing a training course that expands and enhances our skill sets.
Cognitive function in late‐stage HFpEF patients with tricuspid regurgitation undergoing transcatheter tricuspid valve intervention
Authors: Gerçek Muhammed , Irimie Anca A. , Gerçek Mustafa , Fox Henrik , Fortmeier Vera , Rudolph Tanja K. , Rudolph Volker , Friedrichs Kai P.
Published: October 2022

Objectives

This study evaluates the impact of transcatheter tricuspid valve interventions (TTVI) on cognitive function (CF), quality of life (QOL), and exercise capacity in late‐stage heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and relevant tricuspid regurgitation (TR).

Background

Reduced cardiac output (CO) critically affects CF. Severe TR aggravates CO reduction in HFpEF, while TTVI has been demonstrated to re‐establish CO to a significant extent. The effect of TTVI on CF of HFpEF patients has so far not been investigated.

Methods

Assessment of CF was performed using the standardized Montreal Cognitive Assessment test in 34 symptomatic HFpEF patients with at least severe TR before and 3 months after TTVI alongside echocardiographic examinations and assessment of exercise capacity and QOL.

Results

Median age of the patients was 81.0 [78.8; 83.0] years and 50.0% were female. CF was impaired in 67.6% of the patients. TR ≤ moderate was achieved in 94.1% of the cases. Overall CF improved significantly (from 20.6 ± 3.9 to 23.0 ± 4.4; p = 0.001). Particularly, significant improvements were identified in the executive function (p < 0.001) and memory (p = 0.008). In addition, linear regression analysis demonstrated a significant collinearity of improvement between executive function as well as memory and increased CO (ρ = 0.695; p < 0.001 and ρ = 0.628; p < 0.001, respectively). The walked distance and QOL also improved significantly 3 months after TTVI.

Conclusion

Cognitive impairment is highly prevalent in HFpEF patients with severe TR. TTVI results in an improved CF, especially with regard to executive function and memory. These improvements also correlate with more efficient hemodynamics reflected by increased CO.
Stability of Pt10Sn3 Clusters Supported on γ‐Al2O3 in Oxidizing Environment: a DFT Comparison of Alloying and Size Effects
Authors: Shahrokhi Masoud , Chizallet Celine , Loffreda David , Raybaud Pascal
Published: October 2022

The understanding of the structure and properties of γ‐Al2O3 supported platinum‐tin catalysts in oxidizing conditions is of prominent importance for many catalytic reactions. By using density functional theory calculations and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations, we identify the adsorption sites of oxygen atoms on a Pt10Sn3/γ‐Al2O3(100) cluster model and analyze its reconstruction and electronic charge redistribution. A strengthening of O adsorption is found for the cluster with respect to the Pt3Sn(111) surface, due to the key role of Al−Pt interfacial sites at low coverage, the ductility and the metastability of the cluster. Moreover, the ab initio (
, T) thermodynamic phase diagrams show only minor differences between the supported Pt10Sn3 and Pt13 clusters. Both clusters are much more oxidized than their homologous Pt and Pt3Sn(111) surfaces, and their oxygen contents may exceed 1 ML. This suggests a stronger size effect than an alloying effect for the oxidation of the metallic PtSn nanoparticles at small size.
Discovery of Anti‐tubercular Analogues of Bedaquiline with Modified A‐, B‐ and C‐Ring Subunits
Authors: Barbaro Lisa , Nagalingam Gayathri , Triccas James A. , Tan Lendl , West Nicholas P. , Priebbenow Daniel L. , Baell Jonathan B.
Published: October 2022

To date, the clinical use of the anti‐tubercular therapy bedaquiline has been somewhat limited due to safety concerns. Recent investigations determined that modification of the B‐ and C‐ring units of bedaquiline delivered new diarylquinolines (for example TBAJ‐587) with potent anti‐tubercular activity yet an improved safety profile due to reduced affinity for the hERG channel. Building on our recent discovery that substitution of the quinoline motif (the A‐ring subunit) for C5‐aryl pyridine groups within bedaquiline analogues led to retention of anti‐tubercular activity, we investigated the concurrent modification of A‐, B‐ and C‐ring units within bedaquiline variants. This led to the discovery that 4‐trifluoromethoxyphenyl and 4‐chlorophenyl pyridyl analogues of TBAJ‐587 retained relatively potent anti‐tubercular activity and for the 4‐chlorophenyl derivative in particular, a significant reduction in hERG inhibition relative to bedaquiline was achieved, demonstrating that modifications of the A‐, B‐ and C‐ring units within the bedaquiline structure is a viable strategy for the design of effective, yet safer (and less lipophilic) anti‐tubercular compounds.
Intraoral clinical examinations of pediatric patients with anticipatory anxiety and situational fear facilitated by therapy dog assistance: A pilot RCT
Authors: Gussgard Anne M. , Carlstedt Kerstin , Meirik Malin
Published: October 2022

Objective

To evaluate whether the presence of a certified therapy dog specially trained for working in a dental setting may facilitate dental care of anxious pediatric patients.

Methods

The Norwegian Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research Ethics approved a randomized cross‐over trial with a study sample of n = 16 children aged between 6 and 12 years. The trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov. Pediatric patients referred to specialist care at the Public Dental Service Competence Center of Northern Norway (TkNN) because of anxiety were invited to partake in the trial. Study participants met twice for an intraoral examination by a specialist pediatric dentist. Per random allocation, a therapy dog team was present in the clinic operatory during the clinical examination on the first or the second visit. The primary outcome was the assessment of patient compliance during the intraoral examination (yes/no). Secondary outcomes were measurements of child satisfaction and anxiety using the CFSS‐DS scale (Dental subscale of Children's Fear Survey Schedule) completed by a parent/guardian. Supplementary outcomes were salivary cortisol level, heart rate variability, and skin conductance.

Results

Ten boys and six girls (mean age 8.5) were recruited. All completed both clinical visits and demonstrated full compliance while undergoing a dental examination. All study participants and guardians reported great satisfaction. The salivary cortisol level reduction during the clinical examination on the first visit decreased by 30% in the presence of the therapy dog and 20% without, while the decrease during the clinical examination on the second visit was 29% in the presence of the therapy dog and 3% without. Within the limitations of the experimental setup, the electrophysiological measurements were unreliable in the current study population.

Conclusion

Dog‐assisted therapy in a dental care setting appears to have a positive effect on children with dental anxiety or children that avoid dental care.
Landau damping of ion‐acoustic waves with simultaneous effects of non‐extensivity and non‐thermality in the presence of hybrid Cairns‐Tsallis distributed electrons
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Rehman Aman‐ur‐ , Mahmood Shahzad , Shahzad Muhammad Ahsan , Sarfraz Muhammad
Published: October 2022

The dispersion properties and Landau damping rate of ion‐acoustic waves (IAWs) with the hybrid Cairns‐Tsallis distributed (CTD) electrons and Maxwellian ions are investigated using the plasma kinetic model based on Vlasov‐Poisson's equations. For both super‐extensive (q < 1) and sub‐extensive (q > 1) plasmas, the dielectric response function, real frequency, and Landau damping rate of IAWs are derived. By taking the effect of θi, e (ion‐to‐electron temperature ratio) into account, it is found that with the increase of ion temperature, the real frequency and wave dispersion effects increase as well (for both super‐extensive and sub‐extensive cases). Exploring the properties of the Landau damping rate of IAWs with the simultaneous presence of non‐thermal parameter α and non‐extensive parameter q, a comparison of numerical and analytical results is presented. It is found that in different ranges of θe, i (electron‐to‐ion temperature ratio), on decreasing the values of the non‐extensive parameter and increasing values of the non‐thermal parameter, the weak damping rate is observed (vice versa) in super‐extensive or super‐thermal plasma, although the trend of the damping rate in sub‐thermal plasma is similar (as in the case of super‐thermal plasma) but is less weak. It is further revealed that the damping rate of IAWs in thermal plasmas (Maxwellian) is stronger than the damping rate of IAWs in the case of non‐thermal plasmas (CTD). The current study is applicable to provide deep insight and further allow the exploration of electrostatic plasma modes in different space and laboratory plasma environments where the hybrid CTD plasma exists.
Initial assemblage characteristics determine the functional dynamics of flower‐strip plant communities
Authors: Gardarin Antoine , Valantin‐Morison Muriel
Published: October 2022

In agroecosystems, species‐rich habitats, such as linear field margins and flower strips, are beneficial to the overall biodiversity and contribute to pest control. Their effects are thought to be mediated by plant species composition and diversity. However, the management of plant communities with targeted levels of functional diversity has been little investigated. In an open field landscape, we compared the effects of the sown species richness (9, 14, and 29 species) and functional diversity (high vs. low) of eight different seed mixtures, sown in flower strips, on the 4‐year temporal dynamics of their functional diversity. There was a good agreement between the expected and realized species richness and functional diversity at the start of the experiment. All plant assemblages progressively lost species over time, but this decline was lower for assemblages sown with a high initial functional diversity, in which species evenness was maintained at higher levels. Species‐rich assemblages had a higher degree of functional redundancy, and their functional diversity remained higher over time than less rich assemblages. A possible explanation for this is that functional redundancy would have enabled the compensation for the loss of species by functionally equivalent species. The realized functional diversity of the sown species also limited the establishment of spontaneous species, perhaps due to a higher degree of niche occupancy. This study provides useful insight into the creation of functionally diversified plant communities. A high level of initial species and functional diversity is required to guarantee a greater temporal persistence of the communities.
Environmental DNA (eDNA) detects temporal and habitat effects on community composition and endangered species in ephemeral ecosystems: A case study in vernal pools
Authors: Ruiz‐Ramos Dannise V. , Meyer Rachel S. , Toews Daniel , Stephens Molly , Kolster Monique K. , Sexton Jason P.
Published: October 2022

Vernal pools are temporary wetlands that can form during a rainy season, often in Mediterranean climates, and serve as ideal testing grounds to understand species detection using eDNA and how biological communities may shift across time and spatial and environmental heterogeneity. Most vernal pools exhibit high plant and animal diversity and endemism, but due to their ephemeral nature, they are understudied, especially their microorganisms. Habitat destruction and fragmentation creates an urgent need to monitor their biodiversity, but traditional species surveys require time and taxonomic expertise. We conducted a community science‐enabled examination of soil environmental DNA (eDNA) in California's Great Central Valley and assessed the capacity of eDNA to aid biomonitoring. We used metabarcoding of16S,ITS1,CO1,18S, andITS2marker regions to quantify and compare differences in pool communities across two sampling periods (during years with disparate precipitation) and to estimate variation among pools and inundation zones (vernal pool bottom, transitional edge, and grassland upland). We found differences in beta diversity among sampling periods, pools, and inundation zones; alpha diversity was mainly affected by sampling period and zone, but this differed by marker. Numerous taxonomic families varied in abundance and composition among samples, yet vernal pool communities remained distinct from upland grass communities, even between sampling periods differing by 1 year. Turnover in ecologically co‐occurring taxon pairs varied by over 90% between sampling periods in all metabarcodes but plants, which were more stable. Finally, we confirmed substantial concordance between eDNA and traditional inventories of the reserve's plants and presented a case in which we detected one endangered plant species, Colusa grass (Neostapfia colusana), in advance of its emergence. This initial study adds hundreds of new taxon records for California vernal pools and discusses benefits and challenges of using eDNA for biomonitoring within stressful, temporary, or otherwise challenging ecosystems.
Vascular disease and apathy symptoms in the very old: A cross‐sectional and longitudinal meta‐analysis of individual participant data
Authors: van der Klei Veerle M. G. T. H. , Poortvliet Rosalinde K. E. , Bogaerts Jonathan M. K. , Blom Jeanet W. , Mooijaart Simon P. , Teh Ruth , Muru‐Lanning Marama , Palapar Leah , Kingston Andrew , Robinson Louise , Kerse Ngaire , Gussekloo Jacobijn
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Previous findings suggest a vascular foundation underlying apathy, but transdiagnostic and prospective evidence on vascular apathy is scarce. This study examines the association between vascular disease and the presence and development of apathy symptoms in the very old.

Methods

Four cohorts of the Towards Understanding Longitudinal International older People Studies (TULIPS)‐consortium were included in a two‐staged, individual participant data meta‐analysis using generalized linear mixed models. Vascular disease was defined as a history of any clinical atherosclerotic pathology (angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, intermittent claudication, transient ischemic attack, stroke or related surgeries) and was related to apathy symptoms as repeatedly measured by the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS‐3A ≥2) over a maximum of 5 years.

Results

Of all 1868 participants (median age 85 years old), 53.9% had vascular disease and 44.3% experienced apathy symptoms. Participants with vascular disease had a 76% higher risk of apathy symptoms at baseline (odds ratio (OR) 1.76, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.32–2.35), irrespective of depressive symptoms and only partially explained by stroke. Conversely, there was no association of vascular disease with the occurrence of apathy symptoms longitudinally, both in those with apathy at baseline (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.84–1.20) and without (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.84–1.09).

Conclusions

Vascular disease in the very old is associated with apathy symptoms cross‐sectionally, but not proven longitudinally, independent of depressive symptoms. These findings query a vascular cause underlying apathy symptoms. However, the consistency of our cross‐sectional findings in direction and magnitude across the TULIPS‐consortium do emphasize international relevance of the interplay of vascular factors and apathy in advanced age, which meaning needs further unravelling.
Characteristic submucosal alteration in biliary carcinogenesis of pancreaticobiliary maljunction with a focus on inflammasome activation
Authors: Yamashita Shoko , Takasu Chie , Morine Yuji , Ishibashi Hiroki , Ikemoto Tetsuya , Mori Hiroki , Yamada Shinichiro , Oya Takeshi , Tsuneyama Koichi , Shimada Mitsuo
Published: October 2022

Background

This study investigated submucosal alterations in biliary carcinogenesis of pancreaticobiliary maljunction (PBM).

Methods

Thirty‐three patients with PBM (including seven with gallbladder [GB] cancer), four with neither biliary tract cancer nor PBM who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (controls), and seven with chronic cholecystitis without PBM were enrolled. Protein expression of α‐smooth muscle actin (αSMA), CD68, and CD204 in the GB lamina propria and that of NLRP3 and caspase 1 in the GB epithelium and lamina propria were examined.

Results

Compared with the control and cholecystitis groups, αSMA expression was higher in the cancerous part (stroma) of the GB in patients with GB cancer + PBM and in the lamina propria of patients with PBM. The CD204/CD68 ratio in the lamina propria was higher in the PBM group than in the control and cholecystitis groups. NLRP3 and caspase 1 expression in both the lamina propria and epithelium was higher in the PBM than control group. In the PBM group, NLRP3‐ and caspase 1‐positive cells in the lamina propria were located near the epithelium.

Conclusion

Activated fibroblasts and M2 macrophages in the GB lamina propria may be associated with biliary carcinogenesis of PBM, possibly through inflammasome activation.
Flagellum tapering and midpiece volume in songbird spermatozoa
Authors: Cramer Emily R. A. , Grønstøl Gaute , Lifjeld Jan T.
Published: October 2022

In contrast to numerous studies on spermatozoa length, relatively little work focuses on the width of spermatozoa, and particularly the width of the midpiece and flagellum. In flagellated spermatozoa, the flagellum provides forward thrust while energy may be provided via mitochondria in the midpiece and/or through glycolysis along the flagellum itself. Longer flagella may be able to provide greater thrust but may also require stronger structural features and more or larger mitochondria to supply sufficient energy. Here, we use scanning electron microscopy to investigate the ultrastructure of spermatozoa from 55 passerine species in 26 taxonomic families in the Passerides infraorder. Our data confirm the qualitative observation that the flagellum tapers along its length, and we show that longer flagella are wider at the neck. This pattern is similar to mammals, and likely reflects the need for longer cells to be stronger against shearing forces. We further estimate the volume of the mitochondrial helix and show that it correlates well with midpiece length, supporting the use of midpiece length as a proxy for mitochondrial volume, at least in between‐species studies where midpiece length is highly variable. These results provide important context for understanding the evolutionary correlations among different sperm cell components and dimensions.
High‐Resolution Vessel Wall MRI in Assessing Postoperative Restenosis of Intracranial Atherosclerotic Disease Before Drug‐Coated Balloon Treatment: An Outcome Prediction Study
Authors: Jiang Shu , Liu Qingwei , Zhang Chao , Chen Kunjian , Dou Weiqiang , Wang Xinyi
Published: October 2022

Background

Postoperative restenosis frequently occurs in intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) patients after drug‐coated balloon (DCB) treatment. However, high‐risk plaques associated with postoperative restenosis remain to be explored.

Purpose

To assess whether high‐resolution vessel wall MRI (HR‐VWI) contributes to the identification of high‐risk plaques associated with postoperative restenosis before DCB treatment.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

A total of 70 patients with ICAD who underwent DCB treatment.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T; magnetic resonance angiography, HR‐VWI.

Assessment

All patients underwent HR‐VWI examination prior to DCB treatment. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) measurement was assessed 6 months (±1 month) after operation to determine the vessel restenosis, classifying patients into three groups of no stenosis, mild stenosis (<50%), and restenosis (>50%). Clinical factors and HR‐VWI characteristics, including vessel and lumen area at maximal lumen narrowing (MLN), plaque area and length, degree of stenosis, plaque burden, remodeling index, and enhancement amplitude, were compared among three groups. Clinical factors and HR‐VWI characteristics were separately evaluated for the association with postoperative restenosis.

Statistical Tests

Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, intra‐class correlation coefficient, Kruskal Wallis H test, Mann–Whitney U test, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, multivariable linear regression analysis. P‐values <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

During the follow‐up DSA measurement, 13 lesions (18.5%) showed restenosis. With HR‐VWI, significant differences among three groups were observed in plaque length, lumen area of MLN, degree of stenosis, enhancement amplitude, and plaque burden. In ROC analysis, plaque length (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.809), and enhancement amplitude (AUC = 0.880) provided higher efficacy in identification of high‐risk plaques associated with postoperative restenosis than degree of stenosis (AUC = 0.746) and plaque burden (AUC = 0.759). Multivariable linear regression analysis showed that plaque length and enhancement amplitude were independent prognostic factors of postoperative restenosis.

Data Conclusion

HR‐VWI has the potential to identify high‐risk plaques in ICAD patients before DCB treatment.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
A discussion on the kinetic behavior of Ziegler–Natta ethylene polymerization at early moments of the reaction via modeling
Authors: Parvazinia Mahmoud
Published: October 2022

The gas‐phase ethylene polymerizations with SiO2‐supported Ziegler–Natta (ZN) catalyst at early moments of reaction is modeled. The experimental data used in this work show that at initial stages of the polymerization there is a sharp reduction in the reaction rate and a sharp rise in molecular weight. In the modeling, multi‐active sites assumption and diffusion limitations inside the particle are studied. Energy balance to calculate the temperature at early moment is applied. Kinetic model including initiation, propagation, chain transfers and active site deactivation steps are used to predict the reaction rate and molecular weights. Polymeric flow model (PFM) is applied for single particle model (SPM). The results show two distinct regions. First region with sharp gradient for reaction rate and molecular weights and then, shortly there is a smooth region in which the changes in rate and molecular weights are slow. To fit this sharp gradient followed by a nearly steady state behavior two types of active sites are necessary. A group of highly active sites which deactivated soon and the active sites with lower activity and relatively long‐lasting.
Endoscopic Medial Orbitotomy for Lateral Access to Anterior Cranial Base Pathology
Authors: Rimmer Ryan , Geltzeiler Mathew
Published: October 2022

This article showcases a technique to further expand the endoscopic endonasal approach to the skull base by traversing the orbit for further lateral exposure. Laryngoscope, 133:1336–1338, 2023
Greenhouse gases emissions and agronomic productivity as influenced by varying levels of N fertilizer and tank silt in degraded semiaridAlfisol of Southern India
Authors: Reddy Sharan Bhoopal , Srinivasarao Cherukumalli , Rao Palli Chandrasekhar , Lal Rattan , Rakesh Suresh , Kundu Sumanta , Singh Ram Nagina , Dubey Pradeep Kumar , Abhilash Purushothaman Chirakkuzhyil , Venkateswara Rao Kondru , Abrol Vikas , Somasundaram Jayaraman
Published: October 2022

The study aimed to assess the effects of combined application of urea nitrogen (N) and tank* silt (TS) on greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions [i.e., carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O)] and agronomic productivity of maize‐horsegram system. A factorial [urea (0, 60, 120, and 180 kg N ha−1)] and tank silt (0 and 30 t ha−1) replicated thrice randomized block design was employed for this investigation. Results of the study showed that maize grain yield was significantly influenced by the sole application of both N fertilizer and TS. When both the N fertilizer and TS were combined, the grain yield was significantly (p < 0.01) improved by 5% (4870 kg ha−1) over the highest yield observed under only N. We have noticed a significant (p < 0.01) residual effect of N and TS on horsegram straw yield during all the years of experimentation. With the increase in N‐rate, there was an increasing trend in CO2emission noticed in all the years including the pooled year data. Compared to CO2emission, N2O emission was greatly influenced by nutrient management and amendment application. Among the seasons, the post‐rainy season (Rabi) had a slightly lower emission trend of CO2, during all the years as compared to the rainy season (Kharif). The observed results marked the marginal increasing trend of cumulative CO2(cCO2) emissions with regard to increasing doses of urea. Tank silt addition slightly favoured a CO2emissions. The trend of cumulative N2O (cN2O) emission was greatly influenced by the dose of urea following the order of N180 > N120 > N60 > N0. However, N fertilizer application influenced the cCO2emissions (r = 0.83), and significantly increased the cN2O emission (r = 0.99). Therefore, optimum and timely application of urea combined with TS is recommended as an effective strategy to combat GHG‐based emissions (specifically N2O based) in semiarid rainfed regions.
High‐Speed Photodetectors on Silicon Photonics Platform for Optical Interconnect
Authors: Chen Guanyu , Yu Yu , Shi Yang , Li Nanxi , Luo Wei , Cao Lin , Danner Aaron J. , Liu Ai‐Qun , Zhang Xinliang
Published: October 2022

A photodetector (PD) converts optical signals into electrical ones and is widely used in optical interconnect. High‐speed PDs are in high demand as they are necessary to meet requirements of large‐capacity optical interconnect. Many high‐performance PDs with various absorption materials and structures are demonstrated on silicon photonics platform, including germanium (Ge) PDs, germanium tin (GeSn) PDs, heterogeneous integrated III–V PDs, all silicon (Si) PDs, 2D material PDs, etc. These kinds of PDs continue to set new records of speed and open an era of ultrahigh‐speed optical interconnect. A comprehensive summary of the state‐of‐the‐art high‐speed PDs on silicon photonics platform is necessary and meaningful. In this review, the basic metrics and key process technologies for the PDs are introduced, and various types of high‐speed PDs based on silicon photonics platform are reviewed and discussed. Furthermore, the summary and perspectives are provided. It is hoped that this review can provide readers more insights into recent advances in high‐speed PDs on silicon photonics platform and contribute to the further development.
A note on Andrews inequalities
Authors: Fang Hao , Ma Biao , Wei Wei
Published: October 2022

In this note, we prove two Andrews‐type inequalities concerning conic manifolds and manifolds with boundary. In each case, we establish a rigidity result when the equality holds.
Prenatal heroin exposure alters brain morphology and connectivity in adolescent mice
Authors: Hornburg Kathryn J. , Slosky Lauren M. , Cofer Gary , Cook James , Qi Yi , Porkka Fiona , Clark Nicholas B. , Pires Andrea , Petrella Jeffrey R. , White Leonard E. , Wetsel William C. , Barak Lawrence , Caron Marc G. , Johnson G. Allan
Published: October 2022

The United States is experiencing a dramatic increase in maternal opioid misuse and, consequently, the number of individuals exposed to opioids in utero. Prenatal opioid exposure has both acute and long‐lasting effects on health and wellbeing. Effects on the brain, often identified at school age, manifest as cognitive impairment, attention deficit, and reduced scholastic achievement. The neurobiological basis for these effects is poorly understood. Here, we examine how in utero exposure to heroin affects brain development into early adolescence in a mouse model. Pregnant C57BL/6J mice received escalating doses of heroin twice daily on gestational days 4–18. The brains of offspring were assessed on postnatal day 28 using 9.4 T diffusion MRI of postmortem specimens at 36 μm resolution. Whole‐brain volumes and the volumes of 166 bilateral regions were compared between heroin‐exposed and control offspring. We identified a reduction in whole‐brain volume in heroin‐exposed offspring and heroin‐associated volume changes in 29 regions after standardizing for whole‐brain volume. Regions with bilaterally reduced standardized volumes in heroin‐exposed offspring relative to controls include the ectorhinal and insular cortices. Regions with bilaterally increased standardized volumes in heroin‐exposed offspring relative to controls include the periaqueductal gray, septal region, striatum, and hypothalamus. Leveraging microscopic resolution diffusion tensor imaging and precise regional parcellation, we generated whole‐brain structural MRI diffusion connectomes. Using a dimension reduction approach with multivariate analysis of variance to assess group differences in the connectome, we found that in utero heroin exposure altered structure‐based connectivity of the left septal region and the region that acts as a hub for limbic regulatory actions. Consistent with clinical evidence, our findings suggest that prenatal opioid exposure may have effects on brain morphology, connectivity, and, consequently, function that persist into adolescence. This work expands our understanding of the risks associated with opioid misuse during pregnancy and identifies biomarkers that may facilitate diagnosis and treatment.
Thiol‐ene emulsion step polymerization in a photochemical stirred tank reactor: Molecular weight, cyclization, and fragmentation
Authors: Le Cuong Minh Quoc , Chemtob Abraham
Published: October 2022

Unlike many step polymerizations, the polymerization of bifunctional thiol and alkene monomers can be carried in emulsion to prepare a range of sulfur‐containing polymer particles differing markedly from conventional emulsion chain polymers. This study examines how the change of polymerization mechanism affects polymer molecular weight, structure and composition. A 2,2′‐dimercaptodiethyl sulfide/diallyl phthalate emulsion is photopolymerized in a photochemical stirred‐tank reactor equipped with Light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) to yield a 30% solids content latex with a high weight‐average molecular weight (100 kDa) and a broad molecular weight distribution (Đ = 8.5). Intramolecular cyclization occurs during polymerization by the addition of a thiyl radical to the unsaturated end group of the same molecule. Irreversible ring‐closure takes place to produce “dead” cyclic oligomers in the early stage of the reaction, whereas chain‐growth continues at high conversion. Consequently, the particles are composed of high molecular weight linear chains and a fraction of stable oligomer cycles, showing a broad and bimodal molecular weight distribution. The linear poly(thioether) chains include occasionally disulfide units due to thiyl radical recombination. The reversibility of disulfide bonds causes a decrease of molecular weight during storage. The addition of radical inhibitor to the latex stops fragmentation of SS bonds.
EarCV: An open‐source, computer vision package for maize ear phenotyping
Authors: Gonzalez Juan M. , Ghosh Nayanika , Colantonio Vincent , Pereira Francielly de Cássia , Pinto Ricardo A. , Wasson Chase , Leach Kristen A. , Resende Marcio F. R.
Published: October 2022

Fresh market sweet corn (Zea mays L.) is a row crop commercialized as a vegetable, resulting in strict expectations for ear size, color, and shape. Ear phenotyping in breeding programs is typically done manually and can be subjective, time consuming, and unreliable. Computer vision tools have enabled an inexpensive, high‐throughput, and quantitative alternative to phenotyping in agriculture. Here we present a computer vision tool using open‐source Python and OpenCV to measure yield component and quality traits relevant to sweet corn from photographs. This tool increases accuracy and efficiency in phenotyping through high‐throughput, quantitative feature extraction of traits typically measured qualitatively. EarCV worked in variable lighting and background conditions, such as under full sun and shade and against grass and dirt backgrounds. The package compares ears in images taken at varying distances and accurately measures ear length and ear width. It can measure traits that were previously difficult to quantify such as color, tip fill, taper, and curvature. EarCV allows users to phenotype any number of ears, dried or fresh, in any orientation while tolerating some debris and silk noise. The tool can categorize husked ears according to the predefined USDA quality grades based on length and tip fill. We show that the information generated from this computer vision approach can be incorporated into breeding programs by analyzing hybrid ears, capturing heritability of yield component traits, and detecting phenotypic differences between cultivars that conventional yield measurements cannot. Ultimately, computer vision can reduce the cost and resources dedicated to phenotyping in breeding programs.
Analysis of Post‐Blast Residues in Soil Sample by 1H qNMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Dalal Anu , Sethi Jaswant Rai , Gangwar Upanshu , Gholap Shivajirao L. , Shukla Sudhir , Munjal Priyanka
Published: October 2022

Analysing active chemical components of explosives, propellants and post‐blast residues have been challenging as it involves massive complexity. The increased use of energetics in various activities like military conflicts, terrorist's activities, and accidental explosions has made the task even more difficult for forensic scientists and environmentalists to analyse post‐blast debris. The present studies reported the quantitative analysis of energetic materials present in post‐blast soil by 1H qNMR. The three methods have been used for quantitative studies, i. e. calibration curve method, co‐axial stem insert method, and ERETIC method (Electronic to Access In Vivo Concentration). All three methods have been compared with the studies of post‐blast residues of explosives such as PETN, Tetryl and TNT. The technique is selective, sensitive, rapid, reliable, and reproduce the result with good accuracy. The study merely requires a nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer (400 MHz or 500 MHz) as an instrument.
Variable Dual Auxeticity of the Hierarchical Mechanical Metamaterial Composed of Re‐Entrant Structural Motifs
Authors: Dudek Krzysztof K. , Iglesias Martínez Julio A. , Kadic Muamer
Published: October 2022

Herein, a novel hierarchical mechanical metamaterial is proposed that is composed of re‐entrant truss‐lattice elements. It is shown that this system can deform very differently and can exhibit a versatile extent of the auxetic behavior depending on a small change in the thickness of its hinges. In addition, depending on which hierarchical level is deforming, the whole structure can exhibit a different type of auxetic behavior that corresponds to a unique deformation mechanism. This results in a dual auxetic structure where the interplay between the two auxetic mechanisms determines the evolution of the system. It is also shown that depending on the specific deformation pattern, it is possible to observe a very different behavior of the structure in terms of frequencies of waves that can be transmitted through the system. In fact, it is demonstrated that even a very small change in the parametric design of the system may result in a significantly different bandgap formation that can be useful in the design of tunable vibration dampers or sensors. The possibility of controlling the extent of the auxeticity also makes the proposed metamaterial to be very appealing from the point of view of protective and biomedical devices.
Examining preservice science teachers' implementation of language‐ and literacy‐integrated science through a cultural historical activity theory lens
Authors: Rutt Alexis A. , Mumba Frackson
Published: October 2022

The increasing attention in science education reform documents to language and literacy, coupled with the growing linguistic diversity of United States classrooms, means that science teacher educators and researchers are facing an important task of preparing secondary science preservice teachers (PSTs) to teach a language‐ and literacy‐integrated form of science in linguistically diverse classrooms. Unfortunately, research in this field is in its nascency, and while some studies have addressed PSTs' instructional planning for and implementation of language‐ and literacy‐integrated science instruction, none have considered the unique contextual factors that inform PSTs' uptake of these reform‐oriented instructional practices, despite many studies suggesting student‐teaching contexts are a key factor in PSTs' instructional decisions. The purpose of this multiple case study was to consider the unique contextual factors that supported and constrained three PSTs' uptake of language‐ and literacy‐integrated science practices through a Cultural‐Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) lens. Findings indicated that PSTs' implementation of language‐ and literacy‐integrated science instruction was shaped by interactions among the mediating elements of their student teaching activity systems, including PSTs' division of labor with mentor teachers, the classroom and school norms, PSTs' perceptions of their classroom communities, and PSTs' past life experiences and resources. These findings highlight the roles that different elements of learning‐to‐teach contexts can play in PSTs' enactment of reform‐oriented instruction. Implications for science teacher education, instruction for emergent bilinguals, and research are discussed.
A Study on High‐Quality RDX‐Based Flexible Explosives with High Energy and Low Vulnerability
Authors: Liu Bingxin , Li Wantong , Chen Shixiong , Qian Hua , Liu Dabin
Published: October 2022

A new type of flexible explosive(HFE) with high energy and low vulnerability based on H‐RDX(High‐quality RDX) was proposed. Fundamental characterizations of H‐RDX, including infrared testing and particle size measurement, were carried out. The technological parameters of the process were researched. Mechanical sensitivities were characterized by impact sensitivity tester and friction sensitivity tester on the base of the explosion probability method. Energetic properties containing densities, initiation properties, and detonation velocities were investigated. For comparison, normal RDX was introduced. It is concluded that HFE with great flexibility was obtained under the sulfuration condition of 80 °C, 10d. The surface of H‐RDX is smoother with fewer defects and a smaller specific surface, leading to the better safety performance of HFE. The impact and friction sensitivities of HFE were 50 % and 22 % less than those of RDX‐based flexible explosive, respectively. Moreover, higher densities and a 6∼19 % rise in detonation velocities indicate that HFE(6700∼7500 m ⋅ s−1) has better energy performance. The precise incision was realized as the dosage of HFE rose(thickness, from 3 mm to 5 mm). The waterproofness of HFE was also tested by the detonation of the sample(submerged in 1 m water for 24 h) with the optimum proportion of the formula(explosive/rubber/functional agents=92/6/2). An excellent application prospect of the flexible explosive was observed in this work.
Catalytic Oxidative Depolymerization of Sodium Lignosulfonate into Valuable Esters over CuxO/m‐Sep Catalyst in H2O Solvent Systems
Authors: Sheng Zhiyuan , Shao Lishu , Zhang Lin , Zhan Peng , Wu Zhiping
Published: October 2022

The catalytic oxidative depolymerization is one of the main means for lignin depolymerization to produce various value‐added chemicals, such as ketones, aldehydes and organic acids, et al. However, the high‐efficiency cleavage of lignin interlinkage is often challenging due to the high recalcitrance of C−C bonds and the weak activity of catalyst. Herein, a series of modified sepiolite (m‐Sep) supported metal oxide catalysts (MxO/m‐Sep) were prepared by the precipitation method with assistance of ultrasonic wave, and firstly used in the oxidative depolymerization of sodium lignosulfonate (SLS). Three MxO /m‐Sep catalysts (CuxO, CoxO, and FexO) were characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, N2 adsorption‐desorption, FT‐IR, XPS, and O2‐TPD to study their microstructure and surface chemical state. The effect of the reaction conditions (temperatures, O2 initial pressure, and time) for the oxidative depolymerization of SLS in H2O solvent were investigated over CuxO/m‐Sep catalyst, respectively. Correspondingly, the orthogonal experiment was also performed for obtaining the optimal depolymerization conditions. The results indicated the conversion rate of SLS could reach the highest value of 99.2 wt% under 1 MPa O2 at 210 °C for 4 h, and the optimal yield rate of ethyl acetate‐soluble products (EA‐soluble products) was 11.1 wt%. All these EA‐soluble products were analyzed by GC‐MS, and the selective esters including diethyl maleate (18.41 %) and diethyl succinate (22.91 %) could be obtained over CuxO/m‐Sep catalyst under the optimal reaction conditions. In addition, CoxO/m‐Sep and FexO/m‐Sep also exhibited comparable catalytic performance for SLS. This work developed a new approach for the effective oxidative depolymerization of SLS with low‐cost catalysts and mild conditions, and provided references for the production of lignin‐derived high‐value chemicals.
SO2F2 Promoted Deoxygenhalogenation from Alcohols: A Practical Method for Preparing Halides.
Authors: Zhang Guofu , Luo Zijin , Wang Huimin , Deng Linfang , Ding Chengrong
Published: October 2022

A simple and practical technique for directly transforming readily available alkyl alcohols into halides using economical sulfuryl fluoride (SO2F2) has been developed. This halogenation protocol is extended to a wide range of alkyl alcohols to provide the corresponding chlorides, bromides, iodides, and fluorides in excellent yields (over 90 % in most cases) with broad functional group compatibility.
Biopolymer Based Materials as Alternative Greener Binders for Sustainable Electrochemical Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Rasheed Tahir , Anwar Muhammad Tuoqeer , Naveed Ahmad , Ali Amjad
Published: October 2022

In this study, we address the most recent innovations in the field of sustainable and environment friendlier binders for electrochemical energy storage devices such as, supercapacitors and batteries accompanied by the explanation, how they could reduce the impacts of environment and cost and enhance the efficiency of the energy equipment. Hitherto, the number of sustainable and environment friendlier binders are categorized according to their chemical composition, processability and natural availability. Different electrochemical devices are being employed to investigate their wide‐ranging advantages. Among them the most commonly employed devices are lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and electrochemical double layer supercapacitors (ECDSs). A detailed insight into the anodic half as well as cathodic half has been presented. The Si derived anodes exhibit enhanced capacitive performance as a result of increased cycling ability. This feature owes from the greater interactions between the functionalities and surface of the active particles of the anode material for example, polysaccharides such as carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)/nanocellulose (NC). On the other hands the transition to water‐processable cathodes is more complicated compared to anodes. Among various polysaccharides, the NC has gained considerable attention as a sustainable and environment friendlier class of greener materials. Herein, we have discussed the role of NC based electrode materials with applications in supercapacitors and batteries. Finally, a comprehensive overview based on the documented work and current views for the further development of NC based aqueous electrodes in the field of electrochemical energy storage devices are discussed.
Molecular Docking and Antibacterial Assessment of Monocyclic β‐Lactams against Broad‐Spectrum and Nosocomial Multidrug‐Resistant Pathogens
Authors: Riazimontazer Elham , Heiran Roghayeh , Jarrahpour Aliasghar , Gholami Ahmad , Hashemi Zahra , Kazemi Aboozar
Published: October 2022

β‐Lactam antibiotics are critical antibacterial agents and have rapidly become active ingredients in modern medicine. On the other hand, in the face of increasing rate of antibacterial resistance, there are many concerns requiring the design and synthesis of new antibacterial agents. Herein, we synthesized some monocyclic β‐lactams with various substituents through the Staudinger cycloaddition reaction. The formation of cycloadducts was confirmed by elemental analysis and different spectral data, including NMR, FTIR, and Mass spectroscopy. The investigation of in vitro antibacterial activity of synthesized β‐lactams was performed against some broad‐spectrum strains, including Escherichia coli (E. coli), streptococcus aureus (S. aureus), Salmonella Typhi (S. Typhi), Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), and Candida albicans (C. albicans) and also some nosocomial multidrug‐resistant pathogens such as methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and vancomycin‐resistant enterococci (VRE). Penicillin Binding Proteins (PBPs) are responsible for the cell wall synthesis process as an enzymatic target for β‐lactam antibiotics. The molecular docking study exhibited a good correlation between the calculated binding affinity to PBP and the experimental data. Based on the obtained results, compound 4 d was successfully fitted in the BPB active site, and could potentially serve as a promising lead compound for the treatment of infectious diseases.