bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
White matter abnormalities in adults with bipolar disorder type-II and unipolar depression
Authors: Manelis Anna , Soehner Adriane , Halchenko Yaroslav O. , Satz Skye , Ragozzino Rachel , Lucero Mora , Swartz Holly A. , Phillips Mary L. , Versace Amelia
Published: April 2021

Discerning distinct neurobiological characteristics of related mood disorders such as bipolar disorder type-II (BD-II) and unipolar depression (UD) is challenging due to overlapping symptoms and patterns of disruption in brain regions. More than 60% of individuals with UD experience subthreshold hypomanic symptoms such as elevated mood, irritability, and increased activity. Previous studies linked bipolar disorder to widespread white matter abnormalities. However, no published work has compared white matter microstructure in individuals with BD-II vs. UD vs. healthy controls (HC), or examined the relationship between spectrum (dimensional) measures of hypomania and white matter microstructure across those individuals. This study aimed to examine fractional anisotropy (FA), radial diffusivity (RD), axial diffusivity (AD), and mean diffusivity (MD) across BD-II, UD, and HC groups in the white matter tracts identified by the XTRACT tool in FSL. Individuals with BD-II (n = 18), UD (n = 23), and HC (n = 24) underwent Diffusion Weighted Imaging. The categorical approach revealed decreased FA and increased RD in BD-II and UD vs. HC across multiple tracts. While BD-II had significantly lower FA and higher RD values than UD in the anterior part of the left arcuate fasciculus, UD had significantly lower FA and higher RD values than BD-II in the area of intersections between the right arcuate, inferior fronto-occipital and uncinate fasciculi and forceps minor. The dimensional approach revealed the depression-by-spectrum mania interaction effect on the FA, RD, and AD values in the area of intersection between the right posterior arcuate and middle longitudinal fasciculi. We propose that the white matter microstructure in these tracts reflects a unique pathophysiologic signature and compensatory mechanisms distinguishing BD-II from UD.
Plasma microrna expression profile for reduced ejection fraction in dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Calderon-Dominguez Maria , Belmonte Thalía , Quezada-Feijoo Maribel , Ramos Mónica , Calderon-Dominguez Juan , Campuzano Oscar , Mangas Alipio , Toro Rocio
Published: April 2021

The left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) is key to prognosis in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Circulating microRNAs have emerged as reliable biomarkers for heart diseases, included DCM. Clinicians need improved tools for greater clarification of DCM EF categorization, to identify high-risk patients. Thus, we investigated whether microRNA profiles can categorize DCM patients based on their EF. 179-differentially expressed circulating microRNAs were screened in two groups: (1) non-idiopathic DCM; (2) idiopathic DCM. Then, 26 microRNAs were identified and validated in the plasma of ischemic-DCM (n = 60), idiopathic-DCM (n = 55) and healthy individuals (n = 44). We identified fourteen microRNAs associated with echocardiographic variables that differentiated idiopathic DCM according to the EF degree. A predictive model of a three-microRNA (miR-130b-3p, miR-150-5p and miR-210-3p) combined with clinical variables (left bundle branch block, left ventricle end-systolic dimension, lower systolic blood pressure and smoking habit) was obtained for idiopathic DCM with a severely reduced-EF. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis supported the discriminative potential of the diagnosis. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that miR-150-5p and miR-210-3p target genes might interact with each other with a high connectivity degree. In conclusion, our results revealed a three-microRNA signature combined with clinical variables that highly discriminate idiopathic DCM categorization. This is a potential novel prognostic biomarker with high clinical value.
Intelligent long-term performance analysis in power electronics systems
Authors: Peyghami Saeed , Dragicevic Tomislav , Blaabjerg Frede
Published: April 2021

This paper proposes a long-term performance indicator for power electronic converters based on their reliability. The converter reliability is represented by the proposed constant lifetime curves, which have been developed using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) under different operating conditions. Unlike the state-of-the-art theoretical reliability modeling approaches, which employ detailed electro-thermal characteristics and lifetime models of converter components, the proposed method provides a nonparametric surrogate model of the converter based on limited non-linear data from theoretical reliability analysis. The proposed approach can quickly predict the converter lifetime under given operating conditions without a further need for extended, time-consuming electro-thermal analysis. Moreover, the proposed lifetime curves can present the long-term performance of converters facilitating optimal system-level design for reliability, reliable operation and maintenance planning in power electronic systems. Numerical case studies evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed reliability modeling approach.
Land use and land cover change detection and spatial distribution on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Hao Shuang , Zhu Fengshun , Cui Yuhuan
Published: April 2021

Regarded as the third pole of the Earth, the Tibetan Plateau (TP) is a region with complex terrain. Vegetation is widely distributed in the southeastern part of the plateau. However, the land use and land cover changes (LULCC) on the TP have not been sufficiently studied. In this study, we propose a method of studying the dynamic changes in the land cover on the TP. Landsat OLI images (2013 and 2015) were selected to extract the LULCC information of Nyingchi County, the DEM was used to extract objects’ land curved surface area and analyze their three-dimensional dynamic change information, which realized a four-dimensional monitoring of the forestry information on time and spatial level. The results showed that the forest area in 2015 decreased by 7.25%, of which the coniferous forest areas decreased by 25.14%, broad-leaved forest areas increased by 12.65%, and shrubbery areas increased by 14.62%. Compared with traditional LULCC detection methods, the change detection is no longer focused on the two-dimensional space, which helps determine the three-dimensional land use and land cover changes and their distribution. Thus, dynamic spatial changes can be observed. This study provides scientific support for the vegetation restoration and natural resource management on the TP.
Global short-term forecasting of COVID-19 cases
Authors: Oliveira Thiago de Paula , Moral Rafael de Andrade
Published: April 2021

The continuously growing number of COVID-19 cases pressures healthcare services worldwide. Accurate short-term forecasting is thus vital to support country-level policy making. The strategies adopted by countries to combat the pandemic vary, generating different uncertainty levels about the actual number of cases. Accounting for the hierarchical structure of the data and accommodating extra-variability is therefore fundamental. We introduce a new modelling framework to describe the pandemic’s course with great accuracy and provide short-term daily forecasts for every country in the world. We show that our model generates highly accurate forecasts up to seven days ahead and use estimated model components to cluster countries based on recent events. We introduce statistical novelty in terms of modelling the autoregressive parameter as a function of time, increasing predictive power and flexibility to adapt to each country. Our model can also be used to forecast the number of deaths, study the effects of covariates (such as lockdown policies), and generate forecasts for smaller regions within countries. Consequently, it has substantial implications for global planning and decision making. We present forecasts and make all results freely available to any country in the world through an online Shiny dashboard.
Genome survey and high-resolution genetic map provide valuable genetic resources for Fenneropenaeus chinensis
Authors: Meng Xianhong , Fu Qiang , Luan Sheng , Luo Kun , Sui Juan , Kong Jie
Published: April 2021

Fenneropenaeus chinensis is one of the most important aquaculture species in China. Research on its genomic and genetic structure not only helps us comprehend the genetic basis of complex economic traits, but also offers theoretical guidance in selective breeding. In the present study, a genome survey sequencing was performed to generate a rough reference genome utilized for groping preliminary genome characteristics and facilitate linkage and quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping. Linkage mapping was conducted using a reduced-representation sequencing method 2b-RAD. In total, 36,762 SNPs were genotyped from 273 progenies in a mapping family, and a high-resolution linkage map was constructed. The consensus map contained 12,884 markers and spanned 5257.81 cM with an average marker interval of 0.41 cM, which was the first high-resolution genetic map in F. chinensis to our knowledge. QTL mapping and association analysis were carried out in 29 characters including body size, sex and disease resistance. 87 significant QTLs were detected in several traits and they were also evaluated by association analysis. Results of this study provide us valuable suggestions in genetic improvement and breeding of new varieties and also lay a basic foundation for further application of cloning of economic genes in selective breeding program and marker-assisted selection.
Author Correction: A LC–MS method for 25-hydroxy-vitamin D3 measurements from dried blood spots for an epidemiological survey in India
Authors: Lote-Oke Rashmi , Pawar Jwala , Kulkarni Shriram , Sanas Prasanna , Kajale Neha , Gondhalekar Ketan , Khadilkar Vaman , Kamat Siddhesh , Khadilkar Anuradha
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Characterization of activity behavior using a digital medicine system and comparison to medication ingestion in patients with serious mental illness
Authors: Cochran Jeffrey M. , Heidary Zahra , Knights Jonathan
Published: April 2021

Activity patterns can be important indicators in patients with serious mental illness. Here, we utilized an accelerometer and electrocardiogram incorporated within a digital medicine system, which also provides objective medication ingestion records, to explore markers of patient activity and investigate whether these markers of behavioral change are related to medication adherence. We developed an activity rhythm score to measure the consistency of step count patterns across the treatment regimen and explored the intensity of activity during active intervals. We then compared these activity features to ingestion behavior, both on a daily basis, using daily features and single-day ingestion behavior, and at the patient-level, using aggregate features and overall ingestion rates. Higher values of the single-day features for both the activity rhythm and activity intensity scores were associated with higher rates of ingestion on the following day. Patients with a mean activity rhythm score greater than the patient-level median were also shown to have higher overall ingestion rates than patients with lower activity rhythm scores (p = 0.004). These initial insights demonstrate the ability of digital medicine to enable the development of digital behavioral markers that can be compared to previously unavailable objective ingestion information to improve medication adherence.
Author Correction: Reopening businesses and risk of COVID-19 transmission
Authors: O’Donoghue Ashley , Dechen Tenzin , Pavlova Whitney , Boals Michael , Moussa Garba , Madan Manvi , Thakkar Aalok , DeFalco Frank J. , Stevens Jennifer P.
Published: April 2021

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41746-021-00444-1
Epitope-directed monoclonal antibody production using a mixed antigen cocktail facilitates antibody characterization and validation
Authors: Liew Oi Wah , Ling Samantha S. M. , Lilyanna Shera , Zhou Yue , Wang Peipei , Chong Jenny P. C. , Ng Yan Xia , Lim Angeline E. S. , Leong Eliot R. Y. , Lin Qifeng , Lim Teck Kwang , Lin Qingsong , Ng Enoch M. W. , Ng Tuck Wah , Richards A. Mark
Published: April 2021

High quality, well-validated antibodies are needed to mitigate irreproducibility and clarify conflicting data in science. We describe an epitope-directed monoclonal antibody (mAb) production method that addresses issues of antibody quality, validation and utility. The workflow is illustrated by generating mAbs against multiple in silico-predicted epitopes on human ankyrin repeat domain 1 (hANKRD1) in a single hybridoma production cycle. Antigenic peptides (13–24 residues long) presented as three-copy inserts on the surface exposed loop of a thioredoxin carrier produced high affinity mAbs that are reactive to native and denatured hANKRD1. ELISA assay miniaturization afforded by novel DEXT microplates allowed rapid hybridoma screening with concomitant epitope identification. Antibodies against spatially distant sites on hANKRD1 facilitated validation schemes applicable to two-site ELISA, western blotting and immunocytochemistry. The use of short antigenic peptides of known sequence facilitated direct epitope mapping crucial for antibody characterization. This robust method motivates its ready adoption for other protein targets.
hReg-CNCC reconstructs a regulatory network in human cranial neural crest cells and annotates variants in a developmental context
Authors: Feng Zhanying , Duren Zhana , Xiong Ziyi , Wang Sijia , Liu Fan , Wong Wing Hung , Wang Yong
Published: April 2021

Cranial Neural Crest Cells (CNCC) originate at the cephalic region from forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain, migrate into the developing craniofacial region, and subsequently differentiate into multiple cell types. The entire specification, delamination, migration, and differentiation process is highly regulated and abnormalities during this craniofacial development cause birth defects. To better understand the molecular networks underlying CNCC, we integrate paired gene expression & chromatin accessibility data and reconstruct the genome-wide human Regulatory network of CNCC (hReg-CNCC). Consensus optimization predicts high-quality regulations and reveals the architecture of upstream, core, and downstream transcription factors that are associated with functions of neural plate border, specification, and migration. hReg-CNCC allows us to annotate genetic variants of human facial GWAS and disease traits with associated cis-regulatory modules, transcription factors, and target genes. For example, we reveal the distal and combinatorial regulation of multiple SNPs to core TF ALX1 and associations to facial distances and cranial rare disease. In addition, hReg-CNCC connects the DNA sequence differences in evolution, such as ultra-conserved elements and human accelerated regions, with gene expression and phenotype. hReg-CNCC provides a valuable resource to interpret genetic variants as early as gastrulation during embryonic development. The network resources are available at https://github.com/AMSSwanglab/hReg-CNCC.
Biexcitons fine structure and non-equilibrium effects in transition metal dichalcogenides monolayers from first principles
Authors: Torche Abderrezak , Bester Gabriel
Published: April 2021

Transition metal dichalcogenides monolayers host strongly bounded Coulomb complexes such as exciton and trion due to charge confinement and screening reduction in two dimensions. Biexciton, a bound state of two electrons and two holes, has also been observed in these materials with a binding energy which is one order of magnitude larger than its counterpart in conventional semiconductors. Here, using first principles methods, we address the biexciton in WSe2 monolayer and unravel the important role of the electron-hole exchange interaction in dictating the valley character of biexciton states and their fine structure. In particular, the fundamental biexciton transition which is located between the exciton and trion peaks is shown to have a fine structure of 2.8 meV mainly due to the splitting of the dark exciton state under the intervalley electron-hole exchange interaction. Non equilibrium effects are also addressed and optical fingerprints of non-thermalized biexciton population are discussed.
HIV detection from human serum with paper-based isotachophoretic RNA extraction and reverse transcription recombinase polymerase amplification
Authors: Bender Andrew T. , Sullivan Benjamin P. , Zhang Jane Y. , Juergens David C. , Lillis Lorraine , Boyle David S. , Posner Jonathan D.
Published: April 2021

An HIV detection assay featuring a low-cost μPAD for electrophoretic RNA extraction and rapid isothermal nucleic acid amplification.
Soft X-ray emission spectroscopy for the electronic state of water molecules influenced by plasma-treated multi-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Sakakibara Noritaka , Inoue Kenichi , Takahashi Shion , Goto Taku , Ito Tsuyohito , Akada Keishi , Miyawaki Jun , Hakuta Yukiya , Terashima Kazuo , Harada Yoshihisa
Published: April 2021

Significant interactions of the electronic states between water molecules and multi-walled carbon nanotubes were found using soft X-ray emission spectroscopy.
Analysis of DNA interactions and GC content with energy decomposition in large-scale quantum mechanical calculations
Authors: Chen Han , Skylaris Chris-Kriton
Published: April 2021

GC content is a contributing factor to the stability of nucleic acids due to hydrogen bonding. HALMO-EDA scheme is used for decomposing the inter-strand interactions of dsDNA molecules.
Directional charge transportation and Rayleigh scattering for the optimal in-band quantum yield of a composite semiconductor nano-photocatalyst
Authors: Wang Xiaoyi , Hu Wenyu , Qiu Yang , Huang Yi , Wang Xueqing , Xu Min , Ma Jian , Miao Feng , Cui Xudong , Jin Chaoyuan , Ruterana Pierre
Published: April 2021

The work propose a novel technique based on wavelength dispersive in situ photoluminescence spectroscopy for diagnosing the wavelength dependent directional charge transportation and Rayleigh scattering enhanced in-band quantum yield.
Differential profiles of HDAC1 substrates and associated proteins in breast cancer cells revealed by trapping
Authors: Zhang Yuchen , Nalawansha Dhanusha A. , Herath Kavinda E. , Andrade Rafael , Pflum Mary Kay H.
Published: April 2021

The substrates and associated proteins of histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) were profiled in triple negative breast cancers using mutant trapping for the first time to document the variable roles of HDAC1 in epigenetics and other cellular processes.
Nature and role of the weak intermolecular bond in enantiomeric conformations of H2O2–noble gas adducts: a chiral prototypical model
Authors: de Araujo Oliveira Alan Leone , de Macedo Luiz Guilherme Machado , de Oliveira Só Yuri Alves , Martins João Batista Lopes , Pirani Fernando , Gargano Ricardo
Published: April 2021

The role and nature of the weak intermolecular bond in the H2O2–noble gas enantiomeric conformations are presented. Charge transfer associated with the formation of a weak intermolecular hydrogen bond tends to stabilize the cis-barrier conformation.
Inhibition mechanism and hot-spot prediction of nine potential drugs for SARS-CoV-2 Mpro by large-scale molecular dynamic simulations combined with accurate binding free energy calculations
Authors: Luo Song , Huang Kaifang , Zhao Xiaoyu , Cong Yalong , Zhang John Z. H. , Duan Lili
Published: April 2021

Pocket prediction and drug screening against monomeric/dimeric Mpro under different protonation of Cys145/His41, Ritonavir and Arbidol, which may be optimal drugs.
In vivo oral insulin delivery via covalent organic frameworks
Authors: Benyettou Farah , Kaddour Nawel , Prakasam Thirumurugan , Das Gobinda , Sharma Sudhir Kumar , Thomas Sneha Ann , Bekhti-Sari Fadia , Whelan Jamie , Alkhalifah Mohammed A. , Khair Mostafa , Traboulsi Hassan , Pasricha Renu , Jagannathan Ramesh , Mokhtari-Soulimane Nassima , Gándara Felipe , Trabolsi Ali
Published: April 2021

We report the successful use of a gastro-resistant covalent organic framework for in vivo oral delivery of insulin.
Comparing physical mechanisms for membrane curvature-driven sorting of BAR-domain proteins
Authors: Tsai Feng-Ching , Simunovic Mijo , Sorre Benoit , Bertin Aurélie , Manzi John , Callan-Jones Andrew , Bassereau Patricia
Published: April 2021

We review current theoretical models for curvature sensing of BAR-domain proteins, test the models on 2 proteins, and present new electron microscopy data on the organization of BAR domains on tubes.
Engineering 3D-printed core–shell hydrogel scaffolds reinforced with hybrid hydroxyapatite/polycaprolactone nanoparticles for in vivo bone regeneration
Authors: El-Habashy Salma E. , El-Kamel Amal H. , Essawy Marwa M. , Abdelfattah Elsayeda-Zeinab A. , Eltaher Hoda M.
Published: April 2021

3D-printed biphasic core/shell hydrogel scaffolds with hybrid bioactive nanoparticles reinforcing core phase possessed controlled swelling, mechanical stiffness and dual-ranged pore size. They provided prominent osteoconductivity, biocompatibility and in-vivo osteogenicity.
A near-infrared light-controlled, oxygen-independent radical generating nano-system toward cancer therapy
Authors: Cao Desheng , He Hua , Li Wei , Yan Jin , Wu Jianhua , Yin Mengyuan , Zhou Yang , Zhou Zhuchao , Yin Lichen
Published: April 2021

AIBI-loaded mesoporous Prussian blue nanoparticles (AP@HPB NPs) were developed to achieve near-infrared light-controlled, oxygen-independent generation of alkyl radicals toward anti-cancer treatment.
Surface engineering of linearly fused Au13 units using diphosphine and Cd doping
Authors: Li Tianrong , Li Qinzhen , Yang Sha , Xu Liyun , Chai Jinsong , Li Peng , Zhu Manzhou
Published: April 2021

Herein, we report two new Au–Cd alloy nanoclusters, [Cd2Au17(S-c-C6H11)12(DPPP)2](BPh4) and Cd2Au29(TBBT)17(DPPF)2, which exhibit icosahedron-based kernels coated with a homologous shell.
A solvent decomposition and explosion approach for boron nanoplate synthesis
Authors: Tao Yaquan , Wang Qing , Ji Shisi , Wang Ying , Zhou Qiyuan , Huang Zhendong , Li Hai , Huang Xiao , Chen Bo , Li Shaozhou
Published: April 2021

A method to form surface-functionalized boron nanoplates by manipulating the decomposition and explosion of dimethyl sulfoxide is demonstrated.
A tractable covalent linker strategy for the production of immunogenic antigen-TLR7/8L bioconjugates
Authors: Massena C. J. , Lathrop S. K. , Davison C. J. , Schoener R. , Bazin H. G. , Evans J. T. , Burkhart D. J.
Published: April 2021

To produce antigen-adjuvant bioconjugates that enhance antigen-specific immune responses while minimizing toxicity, we offer the most straightforward, modular, and antigen-preserving linker system to date.
Faster magic angle spinning reveals cellulose conformations in woods
Authors: Yuan Eric Chung-Yueh , Huang Shing-Jong , Huang Hung-Chia , Sinkkonen Jari , Oss Andres , Org Mai-Liis , Samoson Ago , Tai Hwan-Ching , Chan Jerry Chun Chung
Published: April 2021

Magic angle spinning in the regime of 150 kHz provides an unprecedented opportunity to characterize wood structure by 1H-detected NMR. The map of 1H -13C chemical shift correlations allows a clear distinction of the tg, gt, and gg conformers of C6 in spruce.
Assembly of fluorinated chromanones via enantioselective tandem reaction
Authors: Lu Mengxue , Xiong Zongli , Zhou Yuqiao , Wang Xin , Li Xiaoyi , Duan Jingxiang , Yao Weijun , Xia Yi , Wang Zhen
Published: April 2021

The enantioselective synthesis of fluorinated tricyclic chromanones with multiple vicinal stereogenic centers has been realized for the first time.
A near-infrared fluorescent probe for accurately diagnosing cancer by sequential detection of cysteine and H+
Authors: She Zun-Pan , Wang Wen-Xin , Mao Guo-Jiang , Jiang Wen-Li , Wang Zhi-Qing , Li Yongfei , Li Chun-Yan
Published: April 2021

A near-infrared fluorescent probe, CyAc, is synthesized for accurately diagnosing cancer in vivo by sequential detection of Cys and H+. CyAc can not only discriminate normal cells and cancer cells, but also distinguish normal mice from tumor mice.
Selectivecine-arylation oftert-cyclobutanols with indoles enabled by nickel catalysis
Authors: Hu Yuanyuan , Luo Honggen , Tu Xiangtu , Xue Han , Jin Hongwei , Liu Yunkui , Zhou Bingwei
Published: April 2021

An unprecedented nickel-catalyzedcine-arylation oftert-cyclobutanols with indoles is described, which features excellent regioselectivity, high atom-economy, and broad substrate scope.
Molecular bismuth(iii) monocations: structure, bonding, reactivity, and catalysis
Authors: Lichtenberg Crispin
Published: April 2021

Structurally defined, molecular bismuth(iii) cations show remarkable properties in coordination chemistry, Lewis acidity, and redox chemistry, allowing for unique applications in synthetic chemistry.
Laser damage mechanism and in situ observation of stacking fault relaxation in a β-Ga2O3 single crystal by the EFG method
Authors: Fu Bo , He Gaohang , Mu Wenxiang , Li Yang , Feng Boyuan , Zhang Kaihui , Wang Huanyang , Zhang Jin , Zhang Shaojun , Jia Zhitai , Shi Yujun , Li Yanbin , Ding Sunan , Tao Xutang
Published: April 2021

We for the first time built up a laser damage mechanism and in situ observed stacking fault relaxation in a β-Ga2O3 single crystal.
LPE growth of Tb3Al5O12:Ce single crystalline film converters for WLED application
Authors: Markovskyi A. , Gorbenko V. , Zorenko T. , Yokosawa T. , Will J. , Spiecker E. , Batentschuk M. , Elia J. , Fedorov A. , Zorenko Yu.
Published: April 2021

Efficient phosphor converters for white LEDs based on TbAG:Ce single crystalline films, LPE grown onto YAG substrates, is developed. The film-substrate interface of TbAG:Ce SCF/YAG epitaxial structures was studied using high-resolution STEM images.
Design of robust 2,2′-bipyridine ligand linkers for the stable immobilization of molecular catalysts on silicon(111) surfaces
Authors: Johnson Samantha I. , Blakemore James D. , Brunschwig Bruce S. , Lewis Nathan S. , Gray Harry B. , Goddard William A. , Persson Petter
Published: April 2021

The attachment of the 2,2′-bipyridine (bpy) moieties to the surface of planar silicon(111) (photo)electrodes was investigated usingab initiosimulations performed on a cluster model for methyl-terminated silicon.
Spectroscopy and photochemistry of copper nitrate clusters
Authors: Pascher Tobias F. , Ončák Milan , van der Linde Christian , Beyer Martin K.
Published: April 2021

The photodissociation products of anionic copper nitrate clusters mirror the excitation character. While 3d–3d transitions trigger ground state chemistry, n–π* and ligand-to-metal charge transfer transitions also afford reactions in excited states.
Strain engineering of optical properties in transparent VO2/muscovite heterostructures
Authors: Chen Hsaio-Wen , Li Chien-I , Ma Chun-Hao , Chu Ying-Hao , Liu Hsiang-Lin
Published: April 2021

Transparent VO2/muscovite heterostructures have attracted considerable attention because of their unique chemical and physical properties and potential practical applications.
The formation and evolution of carbonate species in CO oxidation over mono-dispersed Fe on graphene
Authors: Zhu Jiang , Feng Xining , Liu Xin , Zhang Xin , Wu Yong , Zhu Hongdan , Yang Yang , Duan Ting , Sui Yanhui , Han Yu , Meng Changgong
Published: April 2021

Carbonate may act as a reaction species in CO oxidation over single atom catalysts and contribute to CO conversion.
Reaction mechanism of atomic layer deposition of aluminum sulfide using trimethylaluminum and hydrogen sulfide
Authors: Yu Yanghong , Zhou Zhongchao , Xu Lina , Ding Yihong , Fang Guoyong
Published: April 2021

TMA can react with the sulfhydryl group on the surface to form CH4 and H2S half-reaction involves the formations of CH4 and H2S in Al2S3 ALD.
Ultrafine Pt–Ni nanoparticles in hollow porous carbon spheres for remarkable oxygen reduction reaction catalysis
Authors: Wan Xian-Kai , Samjeské Gabor , Matsui Hirosuke , Chen Chaoqi , Muratsugu Satoshi , Tada Mizuki
Published: April 2021

Small-sized Pt–Ni nanoparticles were synthesized into hollow porous carbon spheres (HPCS) under molecule assistance. Pt–Ni nanoparticle/HPCS prepared in presence of 2,2′-Dipyridylamine showed excellent oxygen reduction reaction activity/durability.
Iron hexamesityl-5,15-diazaporphyrin: synthesis, structure and catalytic use for direct oxidation of sp3 C–H bonds
Authors: Nishimura Tsubasa , Sakurai Takahiro , Shinokubo Hiroshi , Miyake Yoshihiro
Published: April 2021

Iron hexamesityl-5,15-diazaporphyrin was successfully synthesized. Its use for catalytic oxidation of cyclooctane showed high performance with a total TON up to 731. The introduction of bulky mesityl groups prevented the catalyst deactivation via formation of a μ-oxo dimer.
Fluorescent labeling of biocompatible block copolymers: synthetic strategies and applications in bioimaging
Authors: Bou Sophie , Klymchenko Andrey S. , Collot Mayeul
Published: April 2021

This review describes the different chemical approaches and strategies to fluorescently label block copolymers. The review also focuses on the properties of fluorescent markers and the bioimaging applications allowed by the labeling.
Hydrophobic and hydrophilic modification of hierarchically porous monolithic polyimide derivatives as functional liquid absorbers
Authors: Wang Yan , Zhang Luwei , Asoh Taka-Aki , Uyama Hiroshi
Published: April 2021

Thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) and thermal imidization were used to prepare PI-based monoliths in sequence. The hybridized PI (PI-co-POSS) monoliths exhibit potential in liquid diode application to achieve oil–water separation.
Ligand exchange reactions on thiolate-protected gold nanoclusters
Authors: Wang Yanan , Bürgi Thomas
Published: April 2021

Ligand exchange reaction in monolayer-protected metal clusters is a versatile post-synthesis method to modify the surface properties of the clusters and to introduce functionality to them. Here we summarize the more recent knowledge in the field.
Photoelectric conversion based on peptide–porphyrin conjugates assembled hydrogel
Authors: Li Hongfang , Xing Cuijuan , Huo Weitao , Zhao Jun , Hao Yongchao , Hu Zhangji
Published: April 2021

Peptide–porphyrin conjugates facilitated porphyrin to participate in the assembly of hydrogel, improving the utilization of porphyrin and photoelectric conversion efficiency.
Molecular diversity of the acid promoted domino reaction of 3-hydroxy-3-(indol-3-yl)indolin-2-ones and cyclic mercapto-substituted β-enamino esters
Authors: Pan Liu-Na , Wang Qing , Sun Jing , Sun Quan-Shun , Yan Chao-Guo
Published: April 2021

The acetic acid promoted reaction of 3-hydroxy-3-(indol-3-yl)indolin-2-ones and mercapto-substituted β-enamino esters showed very interesting molecular diversity.
A systematic investigation on synergistic electroplating and capacitive removal of Pb2+ from artificial industrial waste water
Authors: Gui Yang , Blackwood Daniel J.
Published: April 2021

Schematic description of Pb2+ removal based on capacitive electrochemical technique.
Intelligent phase-transition MnO2 single-crystal shell enabling a high-capacity Li-rich layered cathode in Li-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Deyuan , Yang Jian , Hou Junming , Liao Jiaxuan , Wu Mengqiang
Published: April 2021

A MnO2 single-crystal shell is synthesized on the surface of Li-rich Mn-based materials, enabling high-capacity Li-rich layered cathode in Li-ion batteries.
Degradation and mechanism analysis of chloroxylenol in aqueous solution by gas–liquid discharge plasma combined with ozonation
Authors: Ma Keke , Zhou Lu , Bai Yu , Xin Yiying , Chen Mingru , Li Heping , Bao Chengyu , Zhou Yuexi
Published: April 2021

Gas–liquid discharge non-thermal plasma (NTP) coupled with an ozonation reactor was used to investigate the removal of a broad-spectrum antibacterial agent, chloroxylenol (PCMX), from aqueous solution.
S(vi) in three-component sulfonamide synthesis: use of sulfuric chloride as a linchpin in palladium-catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura coupling
Authors: Wang Xuefeng , Yang Min , Ye Shengqing , Kuang Yunyan , Wu Jie
Published: April 2021

Sulfuric chloride is used as the source of the –SO2– group in a palladium-catalyzed three-component synthesis of sulfonamides.
Tailoring the catalytic activity of nickel sites in NiFe2O4 by cobalt substitution for highly enhanced oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Yan Xiaodong , Liu Jiangyong , Liu Bing , Gu Zhi-Guo
Published: April 2021

The incorporation of Co changes the rate-determining step towards the oxygen evolution reaction and promotes the catalytic activity of Ni sites because of the Ni–Co interaction-induced change in electronic properties.
Hetero-network hydrogels crosslinked with silica nanoparticles for strategic control of thermal responsive property
Authors: Rahman M. Maria , Alam Md. Ashraful , Ihara Hirotaka , Takafuji Makoto
Published: April 2021

Hetero-network hybrid hydrogels in which two copolymers having different LCST connected with silica nanoparticles exhibit two phase transitions accompanied by volume shrinkage and transparency reduction at near the LCSTs of each copolymer.
Channel-length dependence of particle diffusivity in confinement
Authors: Tottori Soichiro , Misiunas Karolis , Tshitoyan Vahe , Keyser Ulrich F.
Published: April 2021

The diffusion coefficients of particles in finite open-ended channels are always higher than the prediction based on the conventional theoretical model of infinitely long channels when the flow is permitted through the channels.
Molecular rotors as intracellular probes of red blood cell stiffness
Authors: Briole Alice , Podgorski Thomas , Abou Bérengère
Published: April 2021

Fluorescence microscopy images of red blood cells at different temperatures (different stiffness) incubated in a DASPI molecular rotor solution.
Correction: Characterizing surface wetting and interfacial properties using enhanced sampling (SWIPES)
Authors: Jiang Hao , Fialoke Suruchi , Vicars Zachariah , Patel Amish J.
Published: April 2021

Correction for ‘Characterizing surface wetting and interfacial properties using enhanced sampling (SWIPES)’ by Hao Jiang et al., Soft Matter, 2019, 15, 860–869, DOI: 10.1039/C8SM02317D.
Room-temperature healable, recyclable and mechanically super-strong poly(urea-urethane)s cross-linked with nitrogen-coordinated boroxines
Authors: Guo Zhiwei , Bao Chunyang , Wang Xiaohan , Lu Xingyuan , Sun Haoxiang , Li Xiang , Li Jian , Sun Junqi
Published: April 2021

A strong poly(urea-urethane) cross-linked by boroxines shows a high mechanical strength of ∼47 MPa and toughness of ∼190 MJ m−3 and it can be healed and recycled at room temperature with the assistance of ethanol or a water/ethanol mixture.
High tunneling magnetoresistance induced by symmetry and quantum interference in magnetic molecular junctions
Authors: Huang Lin , Zeng Yu-Jia , Wu Dan , Luo Nan-Nan , Feng Ye-Xin , Fan Zhi-Qiang , Tang Li-Ming , Chen Ke-Qiu
Published: April 2021

A higher tunneling magnetoresistance ratio is obtained in the symmetric magnetic molecular junction due to the quantum interference, and it shows stronger ability to resist the influence of electron-vibration interaction and temperature.
Deciphering the behavior of a new MOF and its composites under light at ensemble and single crystal levels: relevance to its photonic applications
Authors: Gomez Eduardo , Yasumiya Daisuke , Tohnai Norimitsu , Moreno Miquel , Cohen Boiko , Hisaki Ichiro , Douhal Abderrazzak
Published: April 2021

Synthesis and photobehavior of luminescent MOF-isoT12(Zn) and its composites with Nile Red at ensemble and single crystal levels.
A new degree of complexi(n)ty in the regulation of GLUT4 trafficking
Authors: Bertrand Luc , De Loof Marine , Beauloye Christophe , Horman Sandrine , Bultot Laurent
Published: April 2021

Loss of the insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in muscle is a crucial event participating in the defect of whole-body metabolism in type 2 diabetes. Therefore, identification by Pavarotti et al. (Biochem. J (2021) 478 (2): 407–422) of complexin-2 as an important contributor to glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation to muscle cell plasma membrane upon insulin stimulation is essential. The present commentary discusses the biological importance of the findings and proposes future challenges and opportunities.
Don’t sugar coat it: the effects of gestational diabetes on the placental vasculature
Authors: Byford Abigail , Baird-Rayner Chloe , Forbes Karen
Published: April 2021

The placenta is a temporary organ, which facilitates the exchange of nutrients, waste and gases between the maternal and fetal circulatory systems. To perform its role, the placenta is a villous structure, which branches to cover a large surface area. In gestational diabetes (GDM), a major complication that affects otherwise healthy pregnancies, the placenta displays aberrant vasculature, including altered vascularization, villous immaturity, and endothelial dysfunction. Several contributors including reactive oxygen species (ROS), advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and the dysregulation of key angiogenic factors have been attributed to vascular dysfunction in GDM.
Low NLRP3 expression predicts a better prognosis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Shi Feng , Wei Bo , Lan Tian , Xiao Yang , Quan Xin , Chen Jun , Zhao Chong , Gao Jinhang
Published: April 2021

Background: NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation is a double-edged sword in tumorigenesis. Whether NLRP3 is involved in the progression and prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) remains elucidated and is the focus of the present study.

Methods: Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was applied on tissue microarray (TMA) to determine the expression of NLRP3 in CRC patients. All 100 patients were divided into the low NLRP3 group and the high NLRP3 group according to their NLRP3 IHC scoring. Additionally, CRC xenografts were established by injecting HCT116 or RKO cells subcutaneously into nude mice. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were determined in HCT116 cells after treatment with NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950.

Results: NLRP3 expression was up-regulated in colon adenocarcinoma tissues compared with that in paracancerous tissues in CRC patients, HCT116 xenograft, and RKO xenograft. High NLRP3 level correlated with the advanced TNM classification of malignant tumors, the occurrence of distant metastasis, vascular invasion, and positive lymph nodes. Furthermore, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed that a high NLRP3 level was associated with a low 5-year survival rate and even a low 10-year survival rate. Moreover, the multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model implied that NLRP3 expression level was an independent risk factor for CRC prognosis. Inhibition of NLRP3 by MCC950 suppressed cell proliferation, induced cell apoptosis, and decreased mRNA levels of interleukin 1β (IL1β) and interleukin 18 (IL18) in HCT116 cells.

Conclusions: High level of NLRP3 predicts poor survival in CRC patients. NLRP3 is a putative prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target in CRC treatments.
Finding a Voice for Individuals With ASD Who Are Minimally Verbal Through Comprehensive Communication Assessment
Authors: Lund Shelley K. , Weissling Kristy , Quach Wendy , McKelvey Miechelle
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Many, but not all, children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a difficult time communicating in conventional ways to express their decisions, preferences, and ideas. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) can fulfill many purposes of communication and support a child to achieve maximal self-determination and agency. The goal of assessment is not to fit the child to a particular device or communication strategy—but rather to identify the strategies that enhance the child's strengths to maximize their independent communication and ultimately their ability to exert control over their world.

Method

Our method was to combine results from our scoping review of the research literature, observations of videos of AAC assessments being conducted by specialists, and interviews with AAC experts (Lund, Quach, Weissling, McKelvey, & Dietz, 2017) and use these combined sources to extract overlapping themes. Finally, we completed an expert review of the results to verify their validity.

Results

There are 11 areas, which we found through our research, that should be included when assessing the communication and language skills of children with ASD who are minimally verbal. They are communication needs, current communication skills, language, cognition, symbol representation, sensory perceptual skills, motor skills, literacy, behavior, preferences, and system features.

Conclusions

It is important to embrace agency and choice throughout the assessment process. Having access to communication through AAC can give children with ASD a voice not only to express their choices but also to increase their self-determination.
Observer‐based fuzzy adaptive control for MIMO nonlinear systems with non‐constant control gain and input delay
Authors: Zhao Jipeng , Tong Shaocheng , Li Yongming
Published: April 2021

In this work the fuzzy adaptive control issue is investigated for multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) uncertain nonlinear systems in strict‐feedback form. The controlled systems under consideration of this work contain the immeasurable states, unknown control gain functions and input time delays. The immeasurable states are estimated by constructing a fuzzy state observer, and the uncertain nonlinear functions are approximated by utilizing the fuzzy logic systems (FLSs). In addition, the Pade approximation method is employed to handle the input time delays problem. An observer‐based fuzzy adaptive centralized control algorithm is presented by employing the adaptive backstepping control design technique and constructing the Logarithm Lyapunov functions. The designed fuzzy adaptive robust control algorithm can make sure that all signals in the closed‐loop system are semi‐globally uniformly ultimately boundedness (SGUUB). Finally, a numerical simulation example and a practical system example are considered to testify the availability of the designed centralized controllers.
Fault detection and classification of an HVDC transmission line using a heterogenous multi‐machine learning algorithm
Authors: Ghashghaei Saber , Akhbari Mahdi
Published: April 2021

This paper presents a novel integrated multi‐Machine Learning (ML) system architecture for the protection of bipolar HVDC transmission line in which different ML models of Support Vector Machine (SVM) and K‐Nearest Neighbours (KNN) are used for fault detection and classification. The KNN fault type classifier is designed as a dual‐purpose module, which not only detects the fault type but also acts as a redundant module for unsure fault declaration from the startup unit. Gradients and standard deviations of DC current, voltage, harmonic current, and a correlation coefficient between the aerial and zero modes of DC current are appropriate feature vector extracted from single‐end signal measurement. Overall, 154 training cases and 53 main test cases are obtained by simulating various fault and non‐fault states on a 650 kV‐1000 km Current Source Converter (CSC)–HVDC using an EMTDC/PSCAD platform. The ML modules are trained in MATLAB and tested under different severe conditions with a total of 2220 test cases. Thanks to the appropriate feature vector and the proposed system architecture, the obtained results show that the proposed algorithm is effective enough to detect and distinguish a variety of internal faults and pseudo‐faults/external faults. Also, it needs low training data requirements.
A blind contour‐aware quality model for sonar images
Authors: Chen Weiling , Lin Rongfu , Zhang Rongxin , Zhu Yi
Published: April 2021

Since the penetration depth of visible light is limited in muddy and dark deep marine environment, sonar imaging, which is independent of natural light, has been attracting much attention in underwater detections. However, the visual quality of sonar image is inevitably damaged during the acquisition and the transmission in the sophisticated and dynamic underwater environment. The quality decrease can further bring negative impacts on oceanic information analysis. To measure the quality decrease of sonar images, this paper proposes a contour‐aware model for sonar image quality assessment (CaMSIQA). The CaMSIQA metric is established upon the conclusion that the quality of sonar images can be defined as a measure of their utilities in real application scenarios. We exploit a contour information statistic (CIS) model that is critical to object recognition of sonar images here. Quantifying the changes of the CIS model between the unimpaired and test sonar images makes it possible to perceive the quality decrease of sonar images. Extensive experimental results have demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed method compared with current mainstream image quality assessment (IQA) methods without full reference information.
Ultra‐low power TIA with variable bandwidth in 0.13 μm CMOS for short‐range optical interconnects
Authors: Nguyen Nga T. H. , Ukaegbu Ikechi A. , Sangirov Jamshid , Hashmi Mohammad
Published: April 2021

An ultra‐low power and variable bandwidth transimpedance amplifier (TIA) for short‐range optical interconnects is presented here. The TIA is implemented in a 0.13m complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology. To reduce the power consumption, the TIA is designed using a regulated cascade topology with capacitor degeneration for frequency enhancement and also operates in the weak inversion mode. With a supply voltage of the range 0.7–0.92 V, a reduced power consumption of 2.9–4.6 mW and a variable bandwidth of the range 3–4.9 GHz are achieved. Clear eye diagrams are obtained at 2.5–6.135 Gbps and a BER of less than 10−12 with input power of −4.3 to −3 dBm at 2.5–6.135 Gbps, respectively. Also, the TIA achieved a transimpedance gain of 51.2–52.4 dBΩ. The small‐sized chip occupied an area of 0.28 × 0.42 mm2 with pads and 0.1 × 0.1 mm2 without pads.
Prediction of motorcyclist traffic crashes in Cartagena (Colombia): development of a safety performance function
Authors: Ospina-Mateus Holman , Quintana Jiménez Leonardo Augusto , Lopez-Valdes Francisco J. , Sana Shib Sankar
Published: April 2021

Motorcyclists account for more than 380 000 deaths annually worldwide from road traffic accidents. Motorcyclists are the most vulnerable road users worldwide to road safety (28% of global fatalities), together with cyclists and pedestrians. Approximately 80% of deaths are from low- or middle-income countries. Colombia has a rate of 9.7 deaths per 100 000 inhabitants, which places it 10th in the world. Motorcycles in Colombia correspond to 57% of the fleet and generate an average of 51% of fatalities per year. This study aims to identify significant factors of the environment, traffic volume, and infrastructure to predict the number of accidents per year focused only on motorcyclists. The prediction model used a negative binomial regression for the definition of a Safety Performance Function (SPF) for motorcyclists. In the second stage, Bayes’ empirical approach is implemented to identify motorcycle crash-prone road sections. The study is applied in Cartagena, one of the capital cities with more traffic crashes and motorcyclists dedicated to informal transportation (motorcycle taxi riders) in Colombia. The data of 2884 motorcycle crashes between 2016 and 2017 are analyzed. The proposed model identifies that crashes of motorcyclists per kilometer have significant factors such as the average volume of daily motorcyclist traffic, the number of accesses (intersections) per kilometer, commercial areas, and the type of road and it identifies 55 critical accident-prone sections. The research evidences coherent and consistent results with previous studies and requires effective countermeasures for the benefit of road safety for motorcyclists.