bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of weaning-induced breast involution in women: implications for young women’s breast cancer
Authors: Jindal Sonali , Narasimhan Jayasri , Borges Virginia F. , Schedin Pepper
Published: October 2020

In rodents, weaning-induced mammary gland involution supports increased mammary tumor incidence, growth, and progression to metastasis. Further, the protumor attributes of gland involution are COX-2 dependent and mitigated by short-duration non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), suggesting a potential prevention strategy. However, the transition from lactation to postweaning breast involution has not been rigorously evaluated in healthy women. Here we queried breast biopsies from healthy women (n = 112) obtained at nulliparity, lactation, and multiple postweaning time points using quantitative immunohistochemistry. We found that mammary remodeling programs observed in rodents are mirrored in the human breast. Specifically, lactation associates with the expansion of large, secretory mammary lobules and weaning associates with lobule loss concurrent with epithelial cell death and stromal hallmarks of wound healing, including COX-2 upregulation. Altogether, our data demonstrate that weaning-induced breast involution occurs rapidly, concurrent with protumor-like attributes, and is a potential target for NSAID-based breast cancer prevention.
The use of a direct bronchial challenge test in primary care to diagnose asthma
Authors: Bins J. E. , Metting E. I. , Muilwijk-Kroes J. B. , Kocks J. W. H. , in ’t Veen J. C. C. M.
Published: October 2020

Many asthmatics in primary care have mild symptoms and lack airflow obstruction. If variable expiratory airflow limitation cannot be determined by spirometry or peak expiratory flow, despite a history of respiratory symptoms, a positive bronchial challenge test (BCT) can confirm the diagnosis of asthma. However, BCT is traditionally performed in secondary care. In this observational real-life study, we retrospectively analyze 5-year data of a primary care diagnostic center carrying out BCT by histamine provocation. In total, 998 primary care patients aged ≥16 years underwent BCT, without any adverse events reported. To explore diagnostic accuracy, we examine 584 patients with a high pretest probability of asthma. Fifty-seven percent of these patients have a positive BCT result and can be accurately diagnosed with asthma. Our real-life data show BCT is safe and feasible in a suitably equipped primary care diagnostic center. Furthermore, it could potentially reduce diagnostic referrals to secondary care.
Magnetic domain engineering in SrRuO3 thin films
Authors: Wang Wenbo , Li Lin , Liu Junhua , Chen Binbin , Ji Yaoyao , Wang Jun , Cheng Guanglei , Lu Yalin , Rijnders Guus , Koster Gertjan , Wu Weida , Liao Zhaoliang
Published: October 2020

Magnetic domain engineering in ferromagnetic thin films is a very important route toward the rational design of spintronics and memory devices. Although the magnetic domain formation has been extensively studied, artificial control of magnetic domain remains challenging. Here, we present the control of magnetic domain formation in paradigmatic SrRuO3/SrTiO3 heterostructures via structural domain engineering. The formation of structural twin domains in SrRuO3 films can be well controlled by breaking the SrTiO3 substrate symmetry through engineering miscut direction. The combination of x-ray diffraction analysis of structural twin domains and magnetic imaging of reversal process demonstrates a one-to-one correspondence between structural domains and magnetic domains, which results in multi-step magnetization switching and anomalous Hall effect in films with twin domains. Our work sheds light on the control of the magnetic domain formation via structural domain engineering, which will pave a path toward desired properties and devices applications.
Gender differences in adverse event reports associated with antidiabetic drugs
Authors: Joung Kyung-In , Jung Gyu-Won , Park Han-Heui , Lee Hyesung , Park So-Hee , Shin Ju-Young
Published: October 2020

Little is known about gender-specific reporting of adverse events (AEs) associated with antidiabetic drugs. This study was to assess the gender-related difference in AEs reporting associated with antidiabetic agents. The number of antidiabetic drug-AE pairs associated was identified using the Korea Adverse Event Reporting System database. Prevalence of diabetes was estimated using the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service-National Patients Sample database. Reporting rate per 10,000 people was calculated by dividing drug-AE pairs with the number of antidiabetic drug users by gender. Gender difference was presented with risk ratio (reporting rate ratio) of women to men. Antidiabetic agent-associated AEs were more frequently reported by women than men throughout body organs and drug classes. 13 out of 17 system organ class level disorders with significant gender differences were reported more often by women than men. By drug class, gender-specific reporting rates were observed in most of the drug classes, especially in newer classes such as glucagon-like peptide-1 analog (GLP1-RA), sodium glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i), and thiazolidinedione (TZD). Looking into preferred term level for each drug class, women dominated the reports of class-specific AEs of newer antidiabetic drugs such as urinary tract/genital infection (all reported by women) in SGLT2i, edema in TZD (risk ratio (RR) 12.56), and hyperglycemia in insulin users (RR 15.35). Gender differences in antidiabetic-associated AE reporting often attributed to women. Explanations for these different report levels by gender should be further investigated.
Vitreomacular traction quantitative cutoffs for the assessment of resolution after ocriplasmin intravitreal treatment
Authors: Arrigo Alessandro , Calamuneri Alessandro , Bordato Alessandro , Aragona Emanuela , Pierro Luisa , Bandello Francesco , Battaglia Parodi Maurizio
Published: October 2020

This study aimed to assess optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters associated with vitreomacular traction (VMT) resolution after ocriplasmin intravitreal injection and also associated with the development of vitreomacular complications. Study designed was a retrospective case series. Structural OCT images were acquired at baseline and over the follow-up after treatment. We developed a mathematical model to provide quantitative parameters associated with VMT resolution. Moreover, we adopted the same model to assess the quantitative parameters associated with development of further vitreomacular complications or with the worsening of the coexisting condition. Main outcome measures were BCVA, central macular thickness (CMT), VMT reflectivity, VMT size, VMT resolution, epiretinal membrane (ERM), macular holes. 73 eyes of 73 VMT patients (mean age 73 ± 9 years) were recruited. The mean follow-up duration was 2.6 ± 1.1 years. Mean baseline BCVA was 0.38 ± 0.18 LogMAR, improving to 0.26 ± 0.20 at the end of the follow-up (p < 0.01). Baseline CMT was 431 ± 118 µm, improving to 393 ± 122 µm at the end of the follow-up (p < 0.01). 38/73 eyes (52%) showed only VMT, whereas 35/73 eyes (48%) also showed coexisting alterations at baseline. VMT resolved in 40/73 eyes (55% of cases). Our model disclosed VMT reflectivity as the most involved parameter in VMT resolution. VMT size showed less influence on the success of ocriplasmin treatment. ERM was negatively associated with VMT resolution. Moreover, VMT reflectivity values and ERM represented the most important parameters for the onset of vitreomacular complications.
Hypoxia and proangiogenic proteins in human ameloblastoma
Authors: de Mendonça Raíssa Pinheiro , Balbinot Karolyny Martins , Martins Beatriz Voss , da Silva Kataoka Maria Sueli , Mesquita Ricardo Alves , de Jesus Viana Pinheiro João , de Melo Alves Júnior Sérgio
Published: October 2020

Ameloblastomas are epithelial odontogenic tumours that, although benign, are locally invasive and may exhibit aggressive behaviour. In the tumour microenvironment, the concentration of oxygen is reduced, which leads to intratumoral hypoxia. Under hypoxia, the crosstalk between the HIF-1α, MMP-2, VEGF, and VEGFR-2 proteins has been associated with hypoxia-induced angiogenesis, leading to tumour progression and increased invasiveness. This work showcases 24 ameloblastoma cases, 10 calcifying odontogenic cysts, and 9 dental follicles, used to investigate the expression of these proteins by immunohistochemistry. The anti-HIF-1α, anti-MMP-2, anti-VEGF, and anti-VEGFR-2 primary antibodies are used in this work. The results have been expressed by the mean grey value after immunostaining in images acquired with an objective of 40×. The ameloblastoma samples showed higher immunoexpression of HIF-1α, MMP-2, VEGF, and VEGFR-2 when compared to the dental follicles and calcifying odontogenic cysts. Ameloblastomas show a higher degree of expression of proteins associated with intratumoral hypoxia and proangiogenic proteins, which indicates the possible role of these proteins in the biological behaviour of this tumour.
Best practices for authors of healthcare-related artificial intelligence manuscripts
Authors: Kakarmath Sujay , Esteva Andre , Arnaout Rima , Harvey Hugh , Kumar Santosh , Muse Evan , Dong Feng , Wedlund Leia , Kvedar Joseph
Published: October 2020

Since its inception in 2017, npj Digital Medicine has attracted a disproportionate number of manuscripts reporting on uses of artificial intelligence. This field has matured rapidly in the past several years. There was initial fascination with the algorithms themselves (machine learning, deep learning, convoluted neural networks) and the use of these algorithms to make predictions that often surpassed prevailing benchmarks. As the discipline has matured, individuals have called attention to aberrancies in the output of these algorithms. In particular, criticisms have been widely circulated that algorithmically developed models may have limited generalizability due to overfitting to the training data and may systematically perpetuate various forms of biases inherent in the training data, including race, gender, age, and health state or fitness level (Challen et al. BMJ Qual. Saf. 28:231–237, 2019; O’neil. Weapons of Math Destruction: How Big Data Increases Inequality and Threatens Democracy, Broadway Book, 2016). Given our interest in publishing the highest quality papers and the growing volume of submissions using AI algorithms, we offer a list of criteria that authors should consider before submitting papers to npj Digital Medicine.
Fusion of medical imaging and electronic health records using deep learning: a systematic review and implementation guidelines
Authors: Huang Shih-Cheng , Pareek Anuj , Seyyedi Saeed , Banerjee Imon , Lungren Matthew P.
Published: October 2020

Advancements in deep learning techniques carry the potential to make significant contributions to healthcare, particularly in fields that utilize medical imaging for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment decisions. The current state-of-the-art deep learning models for radiology applications consider only pixel-value information without data informing clinical context. Yet in practice, pertinent and accurate non-imaging data based on the clinical history and laboratory data enable physicians to interpret imaging findings in the appropriate clinical context, leading to a higher diagnostic accuracy, informative clinical decision making, and improved patient outcomes. To achieve a similar goal using deep learning, medical imaging pixel-based models must also achieve the capability to process contextual data from electronic health records (EHR) in addition to pixel data. In this paper, we describe different data fusion techniques that can be applied to combine medical imaging with EHR, and systematically review medical data fusion literature published between 2012 and 2020. We conducted a systematic search on PubMed and Scopus for original research articles leveraging deep learning for fusion of multimodality data. In total, we screened 985 studies and extracted data from 17 papers. By means of this systematic review, we present current knowledge, summarize important results and provide implementation guidelines to serve as a reference for researchers interested in the application of multimodal fusion in medical imaging.
Quantification of clinically applicable stimulation parameters for precision near-organ neuromodulation of human splenic nerves
Authors: Gupta Isha , Cassará Antonino M. , Tarotin Ilya , Donega Matteo , Miranda Jason A. , Sokal David M. , Ouchouche Sebastien , Dopson Wesley , Matteucci Paul , Neufeld Esra , Schiefer Matthew A. , Rowles Alison , McGill Paul , Perkins Justin , Dolezalova Nikola , Saeb-Parsy Kourosh , Kuster Niels , Yazicioglu Refet Firat , Witherington Jason , Chew Daniel J.
Published: October 2020

Neuromodulation is a new therapeutic pathway to treat inflammatory conditions by modulating the electrical signalling pattern of the autonomic connections to the spleen. However, targeting this sub-division of the nervous system presents specific challenges in translating nerve stimulation parameters. Firstly, autonomic nerves are typically embedded non-uniformly among visceral and connective tissues with complex interfacing requirements. Secondly, these nerves contain axons with populations of varying phenotypes leading to complexities for axon engagement and activation. Thirdly, clinical translational of methodologies attained using preclinical animal models are limited due to heterogeneity of the intra- and inter-species comparative anatomy and physiology. Here we demonstrate how this can be accomplished by the use of in silico modelling of target anatomy, and validation of these estimations through ex vivo human tissue electrophysiology studies. Neuroelectrical models are developed to address the challenges in translation of parameters, which provides strong input criteria for device design and dose selection prior to a first-in-human trial.
VEGFC negatively regulates the growth and aggressiveness of medulloblastoma cells
Authors: Penco-Campillo Manon , Comoglio Yannick , Feliz Morel Álvaro Javier , Hanna Rita , Durivault Jérôme , Leloire Magalie , Mejias Bastien , Pagnuzzi Marina , Morot Amandine , Burel-Vandenbos Fanny , Selby Matthew , Williamson Daniel , Clifford Steven C. , Claren Audrey , Doyen Jérôme , Picco Vincent , Martial Sonia , Pagès Gilles
Published: October 2020

Medulloblastoma (MB), the most common brain pediatric tumor, is a pathology composed of four molecular subgroups. Despite a multimodal treatment, 30% of the patients eventually relapse, with the fatal appearance of metastases within 5 years. The major actors of metastatic dissemination are the lymphatic vessel growth factor, VEGFC, and its receptors/co-receptors. Here, we show that VEGFC is inversely correlated to cell aggressiveness. Indeed, VEGFC decreases MB cell proliferation and migration, and their ability to form pseudo-vessel in vitro. Irradiation resistant-cells, which present high levels of VEGFC, lose the ability to migrate and to form vessel-like structures. Thus, irradiation reduces MB cell aggressiveness via a VEGFC-dependent process. Cells intrinsically or ectopically overexpressing VEGFC and irradiation-resistant cells form smaller experimental tumors in nude mice. Opposite to the common dogma, our results give strong arguments in favor of VEGFC as a negative regulator of MB growth.
Actomyosin and the MRTF-SRF pathway downregulate FGFR1 in mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Zonderland Jip , Rezzola Silvia , Moroni Lorenzo
Published: October 2020

Both biological and mechanical signals are known to influence cell proliferation. However, biological signals are mostly studied in two-dimensions (2D) and the interplay between these different pathways is largely unstudied. Here, we investigated the influence of the cell culture environment on the response to bFGF, a widely studied and important proliferation growth factor. We observed that human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs), but not fibroblasts, lose the ability to respond to soluble or covalently bound bFGF when cultured on microfibrillar substrates. This behavior correlated with a downregulation of FGF receptor 1 (FGFR1) expression of hMSCs on microfibrillar substrates. Inhibition of actomyosin or the MRTF/SRF pathway decreased FGFR1 expression in hMSCs, fibroblasts and MG63 cells. To our knowledge, this is the first time FGFR1 expression is shown to be regulated through a mechanosensitive pathway in hMSCs. These results add to the sparse literature on FGFR1 regulation and potentially aid designing tissue engineering constructs that better control cell proliferation.
Microbial growth and carbon use efficiency show seasonal responses in a multifactorial climate change experiment
Authors: Simon Eva , Canarini Alberto , Martin Victoria , Séneca Joana , Böckle Theresa , Reinthaler David , Pötsch Erich M. , Piepho Hans-Peter , Bahn Michael , Wanek Wolfgang , Richter Andreas
Published: October 2020

Microbial growth and carbon use efficiency (CUE) are central to the global carbon cycle, as microbial remains form soil organic matter. We investigated how future global changes may affect soil microbial growth, respiration, and CUE. We aimed to elucidate the soil microbial response to multiple climate change drivers across the growing season and whether effects of multiple global change drivers on soil microbial physiology are additive or interactive. We measured soil microbial growth, CUE, and respiration at three time points in a field experiment combining three levels of temperature and atmospheric CO2, and a summer drought. Here we show that climate change-driven effects on soil microbial physiology are interactive and season-specific, while the coupled response of growth and respiration lead to stable microbial CUE (average CUE = 0.39). These results suggest that future research should focus on microbial growth across different seasons to understand and predict effects of global changes on soil carbon dynamics.
Cryo-electron tomography of cardiac myofibrils reveals a 3D lattice spring within the Z-discs
Authors: Oda Toshiyuki , Yanagisawa Haruaki
Published: October 2020

The Z-disc forms a boundary between sarcomeres, which constitute structural and functional units of striated muscle tissue. Actin filaments from adjacent sarcomeres are cross-bridged by α-actinin in the Z-disc, allowing transmission of tension across the myofibril. Despite decades of studies, the 3D structure of Z-disc has remained elusive due to the limited resolution of conventional electron microscopy. Here, we observed porcine cardiac myofibrils using cryo-electron tomography and reconstructed the 3D structures of the actin-actinin cross-bridging complexes within the Z-discs in relaxed and activated states. We found that the α-actinin dimers showed contraction-dependent swinging and sliding motions in response to a global twist in the F-actin lattice. Our observation suggests that the actin-actinin complex constitutes a molecular lattice spring, which maintains the integrity of the Z-disc during the muscle contraction cycle.
Artificial imine reductases: developments and future directions
Authors: Booth Rosalind L. , Grogan Gideon , Wilson Keith S. , Duhme-Klair Anne-Kathrin
Published: October 2020

This review surveys the development of this class of artificial metalloenzymes and provides a perspective on existing and future research in the area.
A 2D donor–acceptor covalent organic framework with charge transfer for supercapacitors
Authors: Li Tao , Yan Xiaodong , Zhang Wen-Da , Han Wang-Kang , Liu Yong , Li Yunxing , Zhu Haiyan , Li Zaijun , Gu Zhi-Guo
Published: October 2020

A 2D covalent organic framework with intramolecular charge transfer, numerous redox-active groups and high electrical conductivity possesses a specific capacitance of 752 F g−1 and an energy density of 57 W h kg−1.
Accelerating charge transfer to enhance H2 evolution of defect-rich CoFe2O4 by constructing a Schottky junction
Authors: Wang Yuchao , Liu Biao , Liu Yi , Song Chengye , Wang Wenju , Li Wenkui , Feng Qingguo , Lei Yongpeng
Published: October 2020

The accelerated charge transfer via constructing a Schottky junction significantly enhanced the H2 evolution activity.
A practical base mediated synthesis of 1,2,4-triazoles enabled by a deamination annulation strategy
Authors: Zhang Chunyan , Liang Zuyu , Jia Xiaofei , Wang Maorong , Zhang Guoying , Hu Mao-Lin
Published: October 2020

t-BuOK mediates the deamination annulation of nitriles with hydrazines for the synthesis of 1,2,4-triazoles. This protocol provides a practical strategy to construct 15N-labeled 1,2,4-triazoles and protein antagonists and the receptor mGlu5 in one-pot.
Solvent-dependent termination, size and stability in polyynes synthesized via laser ablation in liquids
Authors: Peggiani Sonia , Marabotti Pietro , Lotti Riccardo Alberto , Facibeni Anna , Serafini Patrick , Milani Alberto , Russo Valeria , Li Bassi Andrea , Casari Carlo Spartaco
Published: October 2020

UV-vis and SERS spectroscopy reveal the solvent effect on termination, size and stability in polyynes synthesized via laser ablation in liquids.
Capturing unconventional metallofullerene M@C60 through activation of the unreactive [5,6] bond toward Diels–Alder reaction
Authors: Wu Yabei , Jiang Yuhang , Deng Jianjun , Wang Zhiyong
Published: October 2020

Encapsulation of a calcium atom inside C60 fullerene efficiently activates the less reactive [5,6] bond over the [6,6] bond toward Diels–Alder reaction with cyclopentadiene.
Dipole–phonon quantum logic with alkaline-earth monoxide and monosulfide cations
Authors: Mills Michael , Wu Hao , Reed Evan C. , Qi Lu , Brown Kenneth R. , Schneider Christian , Heaven Michael C. , Campbell Wesley C. , Hudson Eric R.
Published: October 2020

We outline a path towards universal quantum computation using the dipole–phonon interaction of polar molecular ions in an ion trap.
Long-range coupling in cyclic silanes
Authors: Ferguson John T. , Jiang Qifeng , Marro Eric A. , Siegler Maxime A. , Klausen Rebekka S.
Published: October 2020

We report the synthesis of a mixed methyl- and hydro-substituted cyclosilane (1) possessing cis/trans stereoisomerism.
A photocatalytic ensemble HP-T@Au-Fe3O4: synergistic and balanced operation in Kumada and Heck coupling reactions
Authors: Kaur Harpreet , Kumar Manoj , Bhalla Vandana
Published: October 2020

A supramolecular catalytic ensemble HP-T@Au-Fe3O4 supported by highly branched assemblies of hexaphenylbenzene (HPB) derivative has been developed which serve as an efficient catalytic system for Kumada cross coupling and Heck coupling reactions.
Cytotoxicity induced by new spiral mesoporous silica nanorods via specific surface area and ROS accumulation in HeLa cells
Authors: She Lan , Sun Miao , Li Xinfang , Kang Anfeng , Yang Feng , Deng Yonghui , Wang Dan , Zhang Xinrong
Published: October 2020

Results indicated that the effect of MSNRs on cell viability and cellular oxidative stress was related to specific surface area.
Complementary techniques to analyse pericellular matrix formation by human MSC within hyaluronic acid hydrogels
Authors: Salzlechner Christoph , Walther Anders Runge , Schell Sophie , Merrild Nicholas Groth , Haghighi Tabasom , Huebscher Isabella , Undt Gerhard , Fan Kathleen , Bergholt Mads Sylvest , Hedegaard Martin A. B. , Gentleman Eileen
Published: October 2020

Hydrogels are used widely for cell encapsulation to mimic the native ECM. Here, we characterise and visualise the matrix secreted by encapsulated cells by combining fluorescent non-canonical amino acid tagging with confocal Raman spectral imaging.
Structural alteration of myoglobin with two homologous cationic surfactants and effect of β-cyclodextrin: multifaceted insight and molecular docking study
Authors: Patel Biman Kumar , Sepay Nayim , Mahapatra Ambikesh
Published: October 2020

Structural alteration and regeneration of myoglobin.
Pyrazolylphenanthroimidazole heterocycles: synthesis, biological and molecular docking studies
Authors: Sivaramakarthikeyan Ramar , Iniyaval Shunmugam , Lim Wei-Meng , Hii Ling-Wei , Mai Chun-Wai , Ramalingan Chennan
Published: October 2020

The synthesis of a series of novel pyrazolylphenanthroimidazoles 6a–6j has been accomplished utilizing a multi-step synthetic protocol, and characterized through physical and spectral techniques.
Ligand and additive free aerobic synthesis of diynes using Pd–CuFe2O4magnetic nanoparticles as an efficient reusable catalyst
Authors: Chutia Rituparna , Chetia Bolin
Published: October 2020

Herein, we present the synthesis of Pd–CuFe2O4magnetic nanoparticles as an efficient and recyclable catalyst for the oxidative homocoupling of various terminal alkynes to form symmetric 1,3-diynes.
Magnetically recoverable porphyrin-based nanocatalysts for the effective oxidation of olefins with hydrogen peroxide: a comparative study
Authors: Rayati Saeed , Moradi Dana , Nejabat Fatemeh
Published: October 2020

A simple method for the functionalization of magnetic nanoparticles, which is achieved by the attachment of metalloporphyrin onto the surface of amine functionalized silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles via an amide bond.
One-step facile synthesis of Au@copper–tannic acid coordination core–shell nanostructures as photothermally-enhanced ROS generators for synergistic tumour therapy
Authors: Liu Yanhong , Shi Qingyang , Zhang Yan , Jing Jili , Pei Jin
Published: October 2020

Au@TACu core–shell nanostructures with good biocompatibility and GSH-depleting capability showed enhanced photothermal performance and ROS generation for synergistic tumour therapy.
Unravelling the photophysics of triphenylamine and diphenylamine dyes: a comprehensive investigation with ortho-, meta- and para-amido substituted derivatives
Authors: Mandare Narendra , Shanmugam Ponnusamy , Sundararajan Mahesh , Dutta Choudhury Sharmistha
Published: October 2020

This study reveals the intriguing solvent polarity dependent modulations in the photophysics of triphenylamine and diphenylamine based dyes.
Synthesis of fluorescent and water-soluble silicon nanoparticles with a high pH response and its application to pH measurement and gastric parietal cell imaging
Authors: Nsanzamahoro Stanislas , Li Ling , Mutuyimana Félicité Pacifique , Liu Juanjuan , Ren Cuiling , Qin Hongyan , Chen Hongli
Published: October 2020

In this work, an effective, simple and facile approach was applied to prepare Si NPs, which emitted yellow fluorescence and were used for pH measurement and fluorescence imaging.
Application of MOF-derived transition metal oxides and composites as anodes for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Tan Xiaohong , Wu Yongbo , Lin Xiaoming , Zeb Akif , Xu Xuan , Luo Yifan , Liu Jincheng
Published: October 2020

Research progress of MOF-derived metal oxides and composites in lithium ion batteries has been presented based on different organic linkers.
Freestanding polypyrrole/carbon nanotube electrodes with high mass loading for robust flexible supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Songjie , Liang Yongyin , Zhuo Wenchen , Lei Hang , Javed Muhammad Sufyan , Liu Botian , Wang Zilong , Mai Wenjie
Published: October 2020

To meet the increasing requirement of flexible energy storage devices, it is critical to develop an electrode with commercial-level mass loading of active material for supercapacitors.
Silica-supported dual-dye nanoprobes for ratiometric hypoxia sensing
Authors: Wang Chang , Chen Yu-Zhe , Yang Qing-Zheng , Tung Chen-Ho , Wu Da-Yong , Wu Li-Zhu
Published: October 2020

A covalently encapsulated dual-dye silica nanoprobe has been developed by a one-pot approach for sensitive ratiometric hypoxia detection with the Ksv value of 243.1 bar−1 and I0/I100 ratio of 153.
The synthesis of competing phase GeSe and GeSe2 2D layered materials
Authors: Yumigeta Kentaro , Brayfield Cassondra , Cai Hui , Hajra Debarati , Blei Mark , Yang Sijie , Shen Yuxia , Tongay S.
Published: October 2020

We report the synthesis of layered anisotropic semiconductor GeSe and GeSe2 nanomaterials through low temperature and atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition using halide based precursors. The crystal phase is controlled by simply changing selenium vapor pressure.
Inhibitory effect of coumarin and its analogs on insulin fibrillation /cytotoxicity is depend on oligomerization states of the protein
Authors: Akbarian Mohsen , Rezaie Ehsan , Farjadian Fatemeh , Bazyar Zahra , Hosseini-Sarvari Mona , Ara Ehsan Malek , Mirhosseini Seyed Ali , Amani Jafar
Published: October 2020

The effect of the applied compounds on insulin fibrillation at two pHs. By and large, the compounds through changing the oligomerization states and altering structure integrity of insulin can govern the fibrillation process.
Twenty years of progress in angiotensin converting enzyme 2 and its link to SARS-CoV-2 disease
Authors: Ferrario Carlos M. , Ahmad Sarfaraz , Groban Leanne
Published: October 2020

The virulence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and the aggressive nature of the disease has transformed the universal pace of research in the desperate attempt to seek effective therapies to halt the morbidity and mortality of this pandemic. The rapid sequencing of the SARS-CoV-2 virus facilitated identification of the receptor for angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as the high affinity binding site that allows virus endocytosis. Parallel evidence that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) disease evolution shows greater lethality in patients with antecedent cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or even obesity questioned the potential unfavorable contribution of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin II (Ang II) receptor blockers as facilitators of adverse outcomes due to the ability of these therapies to augment the transcription of Ace2 with consequent increase in protein formation and enzymatic activity. We review, here, the specific studies that support a role of these agents in altering the expression and activity of ACE2 and underscore that the robustness of the experimental data is associated with weak clinical long-term studies of the existence of a similar regulation of tissue or plasma ACE2 in human subjects.
Promoting Reading Achievement in Children With Developmental Language Disorders: What Can We Learn From Research on Specific Language Impairment and Dyslexia?
Authors: Adlof Suzanne M.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Specific language impairment (SLI; see also developmental language disorder) and dyslexia are separate, yet frequently co-occurring disorders that confer risks to reading comprehension and academic achievement. Until recently, most studies of one disorder had little consideration of the other, and each disorder was addressed by different practitioners. However, understanding how the two disorders relate to each other is important for advancing theories about each disorder and improving reading comprehension and academic achievement. The purpose of this clinical focus article is to integrate research on SLI and dyslexia as well as advocate for the consideration of comorbidities in future research and clinical practice.

Method

The first section reviews definitions as well as inclusionary and exclusionary criteria for SLI and dyslexia. The second section reviews research demonstrating that SLI and dyslexia are different disorders that often co-occur. Studies examining language, working memory, and academic achievement in children with separate versus co-occurring SLI and dyslexia are reviewed. The final section compares and contrasts school identification frameworks for children with SLI and dyslexia and considers the potential benefits of incorporating broad language skills into response to intervention (RTI) assessment frameworks.

Conclusions

Children with weak language skills are at a high risk of experiencing reading problems, but language difficulties are often hidden from view. Directly addressing language skills within school RTI frameworks can help improve the identification and treatment of children with SLI and dyslexia as well as support improved reading comprehension and academic achievement for all students.

Presentation Video

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.13063793
Wind profile disturbance isolation and attenuation through an UIO–LPV approach in PMSG‐based wind turbines
Authors: Salameh Jack P. , Sébastien Cauet , Etien Erik , Sakout Anas , Rambault Laurent
Published: October 2020

Wind turbines operate under random and harsh operating conditions due to several environmental factors. The main source of disturbance is the wind profile due to wind shear and tower shadow influence on the aerodynamic torque driving the system. Disturbed aerodynamic torque induces unwanted operating conditions for all wind turbines subsystems. This study proposes a novel combined unknown input observer (UIO) and linear parameter varying (LPV) approach. In a first instance an UIO approach for disturbance isolation in the input aerodynamic torque as a simple, fast and accurate method. In addition, a comparison with an Extended Kalman filter approach for disturbance isolation is introduced. Then, when the isolation occurs, an LPV controller is used as an active controller for disturbance attenuation in the speed range of the wind turbine. The LPV controller injects a current signal into the generator opposing the disturbance signature introduced by the wind profile. The aim of the UIO‐LPV strategy is limiting the amount of generated current and being able to extend the amount of disturbance attenuation. The strategy is applied to a permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) based wind turbine with experimental tests and results by the means of a test rig.
Data filtering‐based recursive identification for an exponential autoregressive moving average model by using the multi‐innovation theory
Authors: Xu Huan , Ma Fengying , Ding Feng , Xu Ling , Alsaedi Ahmed , Hayat Tasawar
Published: October 2020

This study employs the data filtering technique to investigate the recursive identification problems for a non‐linear exponential autoregressive model with moving average noise, i.e. the ExpARMA model. Whitening the ExpARMA model by a linear filter, the original identification model is divided into a filtered identification model and a coloured noise model, then a filtering‐based extended stochastic gradient algorithm is derived. In order to improve the parameter estimation accuracy, the multi‐innovation identification theory is used to develop a filtering‐based multi‐innovation extended stochastic gradient algorithm for the ExpARMA model. A simulation example is given to demonstrate the superiority of the proposed filtering‐based multi‐innovation algorithm over the existing algorithms.
Adaptive inertia emulation control for high‐speed flywheel energy storage systems
Authors: Karrari Shahab , Baghaee Hamid Reza , Carne Giovanni De , Noe Mathias , Geisbuesch Joern
Published: October 2020

Low‐inertia power systems suffer from a high rate of change of frequency (ROCOF) during a sudden imbalance in supply and demand. Inertia emulation techniques using storage systems, such as flywheel energy storage systems (FESSs), can help to reduce the ROCOF by rapidly providing the needed power to balance the grid. In this work, a new adaptive controller for inertia emulation using high‐speed FESS is proposed. The controller inertia and damping coefficients vary using a combination of bang–bang control approaches and self‐adaptive ones, to simultaneously improve both the ROCOF and the frequency nadir. The performance of the proposed adaptive controller has been initially validated and compared with several existing adaptive controllers by means of offline simulations, and then validated with experimental results. The proposed controller has been implemented on a real 60 kW high‐speed FESS, and its performance has been evaluated by means of power hardware‐in‐the‐loop (PHIL) testing of the FESS in realistic grid conditions. Both simulations and PHIL testing results confirm that the proposed inertia emulation control for the FESS outperforms several previously reported controllers, in terms of reducing the maximum ROCOF and improving the frequency nadir during large disturbances.
A close-encounter method for simulating the dynamics of planetesimals
Authors: Lorek Sebastian , Johansen Anders
Published: October 2020

The dynamics of planetesimals plays an important role in planet formation because their velocity distribution sets the growth rate to larger bodies. When planetesimals form in the gaseous environment of protoplanetary discs, their orbits are nearly circular and planar due to the effect of gas drag. However, mutual close encounters of the planetesimals increase eccentricities and inclinations until an equilibrium between stirring and damping is reached. After disc dissipation there is no more gas that damps the motion and mutual close encounters as well as encounters with planets stir the orbits again. After disc dissipation there is no gas that can damp the motion, and mutual close encounters and encounters with planets can stir the orbits. The large number of planetesimals in protoplanetary discs makes it difficult to simulate their dynamics by means of directN-body simulations of planet formation. Therefore, we developed a novel method for the dynamical evolution of planetesimals that is based on following close encounters between planetesimal-mass bodies and gravitational stirring by planet-mass bodies. To separate the orbital motion from the close encounters we employ a Hamiltonian splitting scheme, as used in symplecticN-body integrators. Close encounters are identified using a cell algorithm with linear scaling in the number of bodies. A grouping algorithm is used to create small groups of interacting bodies which are integrated separately. Our method can simulate a large number of planetesimals interacting through gravity and collisions at low computational cost. The typical computational time is of the order of minutes or hours, up to a few days for more complex simulations, compared to several hours or even weeks for the same setup with fullN-body. The dynamical evolution of the bodies is sufficiently well reproduced. This will make it possible to study the growth of planetesimals through collisions and pebble accretion coupled to their dynamics for a much larger number of bodies than previously accessible with fullN-body simulations.
Formation of interstellar cyanoacetamide: a rotational and computational study
Authors: Sanz-Novo M. , León I. , Alonso J. L. , Largo A. , Barrientos C.
Published: October 2020

Context. Cyanoacetamide is a –CN bearing molecule that is also an amide derivative target molecule in the interstellar medium.

Aims. The aim of our investigation is to analyze the feasibility of a plausible formation process of protonated cyanoacetamide under interstellar conditions and to provide direct experimental frequencies of the ground vibrational state of the neutral form in the microwave region in order to enable its eventual identification in the interstellar medium.

Methods. We used high-level theoretical computations to study the formation process of protonated cyanoacetamide. Furthermore, we employed a high-resolution laser-ablation molecular beam Fourier transform spectroscopic technique to measure the frequencies of the neutral form.

Results. We report the first rotational characterization of cyanoacetamide, and a precise set of the relevant rotational spectroscopic constants have been determined as a first step to identifying the molecule in the interstellar medium. We fully explored the potential energy surface to study a gas-phase reaction on the formation process of protonated cyanoacetamide. We found that an exothermic process with no net activation barrier is initiated by the high-energy isomer of protonated hydroxylamine, which leads to protonated cyanoacetamide.
Optical spectroscopy of 4U 1812–12
Authors: Armas Padilla M. , Muñoz-Darias T. , Jiménez-Ibarra F. , Fernández-Ontiveros J. A. , Casares J. , Torres M. A. P. , García-Rojas J. , Cúneo V. A. , Degenaar N.
Published: October 2020

The persistent low-luminosity neutron star X-ray binary 4U 1812−12 is a potential member of the scarce family of ultra-compact systems. We performed deep photometric and spectroscopic optical observations with the 10.4 m Gran Telescopio Canarias in order to investigate the chemical composition of the accreted plasma, which is a proxy for the donor star class. We detect a faint optical counterpart (g ∼ 25, r ∼ 23) that is located in the background of the outskirts of the Sharpless 54 H II region, whose characteristic nebular lines superimpose on the X-ray binary spectrum. Once this is corrected for, the actual source spectrum lacks hydrogen spectral features. In particular, the Hα emission line is not detected, with an upper limit (3σ) on the equivalent width of < 1.3 Å. Helium (He I) lines are also not observed, even though our constraints are not restrictive enough to properly test the presence of this element. We also provide stringent upper limits on the presence of emission lines from other elements, such as C and O, which are typically found in ultra-compact systems with C−O white dwarfs donors. The absence of hydrogen features, the persistent nature of the source at low luminosity, and the low optical–to–X-ray flux ratio confirm 4U 1812−12 as a compelling ultra-compact X-ray binary candidate, for which we tentatively propose a He-rich donor based on the optical spectrum and the detection of short thermonuclear X-ray bursts. In this framework, we discuss the possible orbital period of the system according to disc instability and evolutionary models.
Evaluation of rootstocks for the ‘Verdejo Negro’ cultivar
Authors: Loureiro María Dolores , Moreno-Sanz Paula , Suárez Belén
Published: October 2020

Grapevine (Vitis viniferaL.) cultivation in Asturias (Northwestern Spain) was on the brink of extinction in the last century. Nevertheless, the present century is witnessing its rebound as a consequence of the recognition of the Cangas Wine Designation of Origin. The long period of abandonment has resulted in a lack of information about the most suitable rootstocks for the attainment of optimal quality. In this study, the agronomical and oenological parameters of the ‘Verdejo Negro’ cultivar grafted on three rootstocks (‘196-17 C’, ‘101-14 MG’ and ‘3309 C’) were studied. Three repetitions of ten vines for each rootstock were disposed in a completely randomized design. Agronomical (phenology, yield, pruning weight and Ravaz index) and enological (berry, must and wine composition) parameters were measured, and the elaborated wines were sensorially evaluated. Concerning phenology, the ‘101-14 MG’ rootstock advanced the veraison in the last two years of the study. The year significantly influenced many of the agronomical and enological parameters, whereas the rootstock only affected the Weaver index, which was higher for the ‘101-14 MG’ rootstock, indicating a more advanced maturation with this rootstock, and at the wine volatile acidity, higher for ‘3309 C’ wines. When the wines of ‘Verdejo Negro’ grafted on the three studied rootstocks were sensorially evaluated, few differences were found. Wines from ‘101-14 MG’ scored slightly better for nose parameters, although the overall judgment was very similar for all the wines. Considering the small effect of the rootstocks on the wines of ‘Verdejo Negro’, there is no clear recommendation at present. But it is important to take into account the effects of climate change, since the advance of maturation induced by the ‘101-14 MG’ rootstock may hinder the production of balanced wines of the ‘Verdejo Negro’ cultivar in the future. The predicted earlier ripening may lead to grapes with excessive sugar level, low acidity and a decoupling of phenolic and technological maturity.
Effect of hydraulic parameters on the computed serviceability of infrastructure slopes
Authors: Tsiampousi Aikaterini , Zdravkovic Lidija , Potts David M.
Published: October 2020

Atmospheric phenomena such as rainfall and evapotranspiration contribute to slope movements in unsaturated soils, the study of which requires fully coupled numerical methods, combined with realistic boundary conditions and appropriate mechanical and hydraulic soil properties. This paper focuses on the effect of the hydraulic behaviour, and in particular of the modelling of the soil-water retention curve and the permeability on slope movements, with the aim of identifying which model parameters are critical and, therefore, require careful experimental identification.
Numerical study on bearing capacity of a pile group next to a slope in unsaturated soils
Authors: Pourfatollah Amirreza , Pirjalili Ali , Golshani Aliakbar
Published: October 2020

The bearing capacity of a pile group mostly depends on parameters of the soil shear strength affected by the soil-water characteristics, especially in unsaturated soils. The soil shear strength is entirely affected by hydraulic stresses in unsaturated soil, such as precipitation and evaporation. Further, the bearing capacity of the pile installed on unsaturated soil depends on hydraulic stresses applied to the soil. Furthermore, slope vicinity may cause a severe decline in the pile bearing capacity. The present study aimed to investigate a pile group in unsaturated soil adjacent to a slope and analyzed the effect of the rainfall on the soil strength parameters. Thus, a numerical study has been performed using a finite difference software,i.e., FLAC2D. Besides, to investigate the model in a real situation, the intensity and duration of rainfall are considered to evaluate changes in hydraulic stresses. Finally, the results show that the rainfall causes a considerable decrease in soil strength parameters in unsaturated soil, leading to the reduction of the pile group bearing capacity and slope stability.
Monitoring of thermo-hydrological behavior in Green Infrastructure
Authors: Yildiz Anil , Stirling Ross A. , Glendinning Stephanie
Published: October 2020

The multi-purpose nature of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) or Green Infrastructure (GI) presents a significant opportunity to store or recover heat for low carbon urban heating/cooling systems. The capacity of such systems for energy storage is strongly dependent on the thermal and hydrological boundary conditions, estimation of their feasibility requires a deep understanding of how atmospheric conditions and the near-surface hydrological regime affect heat transfer. A large-scale, outdoor lysimeter has been set up at the (UK) National Green Infrastructure Facility in order to monitor the influence of atmospheric conditions on hydrological and thermal properties of SuDS. Volumetric water content, matric suction and temperature were monitored at various depths and locations within the sand and topsoil layer. Additionally, thermal conductivity at multiple depths, and heat flux at the surface and bottom boundary were measured. Results of the initial monitoring phase, as well as, preliminary laboratory tests are presented herein and demonstrate the complex interaction between partial saturation and heat transfer. Further work investigates the effects of rainfall and heat injection using rainfall simulation and a variable-power heating cable, respectively.