bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NOTCH1 is critical for fibroblast-mediated induction of cardiomyocyte specialization into ventricular conduction system-like cells in vitro
Authors: Ribeiro da Silva Agatha , Neri Elida A. , Turaça Lauro Thiago , Dariolli Rafael , Fonseca-Alaniz Miriam H. , Santos-Miranda Artur , Roman-Campos Danilo , Venturini Gabriela , Krieger Jose E.
Published: September 2020

Cardiac fibroblasts are present throughout the myocardium and are enriched in the microenvironment surrounding the ventricular conduction system (VCS). Several forms of arrhythmias are linked to VCS abnormalities, but it is still unclear whether VCS malformations are cardiomyocyte autonomous or could be linked to crosstalk between different cell types. We reasoned that fibroblasts influence cardiomyocyte specialization in VCS cells. We developed 2D and 3D culture models of neonatal rat cardiac cells to assess the influence of cardiac fibroblasts on cardiomyocytes. Cardiomyocytes adjacent to cardiac fibroblasts showed a two-fold increase in expression of VCS markers (NAV1.5 and CONTACTIN 2) and calcium transient duration, displaying a Purkinje-like profile. Fibroblast-conditioned media (fCM) was sufficient to activate VCS-related genes (Irx3, Scn5a, Connexin 40) and to induce action potential prolongation, a hallmark of Purkinge phenotype. fCM-mediated response seemed to be spatially-dependent as cardiomyocyte organoids treated with fCM had increased expression of connexin 40 and NAV1.5 primarily on its outer surface. Finally, NOTCH1 activation in both cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts was required for connexin 40 up-regulation (a proxy of VCS phenotype). Altogether, we provide evidence that cardiac fibroblasts influence cardiomyocyte specialization into VCS-like cells via NOTCH1 signaling in vitro.
Spatial–temporal dynamics and driving factor analysis of urban ecological land in Zhuhai city, China
Authors: Hu Yunfeng , Zhang Yunzhi
Published: September 2020

Ecological land is a type of land that has considerable ecological value. Understanding the evolution of urban ecological land in Zhuhai, China, holds great significance for revealing the evolution of ecological land in the Dawan District of southern China. We explored the temporal and spatial variation in urban ecological land in Zhuhai using the transformation matrix, equivalent ecological land, landscape index and ecological land center of gravity migration methods. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the mechanism of ecological land change, and a transition probability map of the ecological land in the study area was drawn. The results showed the following. (1) From 1991 to 2018, the area of ecological land in Zhuhai city continuously decreased, with a reduction in area of 274.8 km2, or 32.3%. Sharp changes mainly occurred from 1991 to 2000. (2) The ecological land in the study area has gradually become fragmented, and the degree of landscape heterogeneity has increased. Affected by the expansion of the outer edge of the city to the southwest and the construction of ecological land within the city, the center of gravity of the ecological land has shifted to the northeast by 1346 m. (3) The elevation, slope, distance from built-up land and growth rate of built-up land are important factors influencing the transformation of ecological land. In the future, rivers and shallow coastal waters, tidal flats, and grasslands in the study area have the highest probability of transformation. The Jinwan District and Xiangzhou District will face severe ecological land protection pressure. The method of spatial–temporal analysis of urban ecological land developed in this paper can be applied in similar studies on other cities, and the results obtained for Zhuhai, China, have reference value for future urban planning and ecological protection work.
The shaping of immunological responses through natural selection after the Roma Diaspora
Authors: Dobon Begoña , ter Horst Rob , Laayouni Hafid , Mondal Mayukh , Bianco Erica , Comas David , Ioana Mihai , Bosch Elena , Bertranpetit Jaume , Netea Mihai G.
Published: September 2020

The Roma people are the largest transnational ethnic minority in Europe and can be considered the last human migration of South Asian origin into the continent. They left Northwest India approximately 1,000 years ago, reaching the Balkan Peninsula around the twelfth century and Romania in the fourteenth century. Here, we analyze whole-genome sequencing data of 40 Roma and 40 non-Roma individuals from Romania. We performed a genome-wide scan of selection comparing Roma, their local host population, and a Northwestern Indian population, to identify the selective pressures faced by the Roma mainly after they settled in Europe. We identify under recent selection several pathways implicated in immune responses, among them cellular metabolism pathways known to be rewired after immune stimulation. We validated the interaction between PIK3-mTOR-HIF-1α and cytokine response influenced by bacterial and fungal infections. Our results point to a significant role of these pathways for host defense against the most prevalent pathogens in Europe during the last millennium.
Evaluation of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound on doxorubicin delivery in 2D and 3D cancer cell cultures
Authors: Paškevičiūtė Miglė , Januškevičienė Indrė , Sakalauskienė Kristina , Raišutis Renaldas , Petrikaitė Vilma
Published: September 2020

The aim of our study was to evaluate the influence of low-intensity pulsed US on the delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) into MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer and A549 non-small cell lung cancer cell 2D and 3D cultures. US with pulse repetition frequency of 10 Hz and 1 MHz center frequency was generated with peak negative pressure of 0.5 MPa and 50% duty cycle. SonoVue microbubbles were used. Spheroids were formed using 3D Bioprinting method. DOX delivery in 2D and 3D cultures was assessed using fluorescence microscopy. US without the addition of microbubbles did not enhance the penetration of DOX into monolayer-cultured cells and tumor spheroids. In the presence of microbubbles US improved the delivery of DOX into the edge end middle zones of A549 and MDA-MB-231 spheroids. Application of low-intensity pulsed US in combination with microbubbles may be a promising approach to enhance the delivery of DOX into tumor spheroids.
Prevalence, risk factors, and optimized management of moderate-to-severe thirst in the post-anesthesia care unit
Authors: Lee Chia-Wei , Liu Shih-Ting , Cheng Ya-Jung , Chiu Ching-Tang , Hsu Yu-Fen , Chao Anne
Published: September 2020

Post-operative thirst is common and may cause intense patient discomfort. The aims of this retrospective study conducted in a high-volume post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) were as follows: (1) to examine the prevalence of moderate-to-severe post-operative thirst—defined as a numerical rating scale (NRS) score of 4 or higher, (2) to identify the main risk factors for moderate-to-severe post-operative thirst, and (3) to maximize the efficacy and safety of thirst management through a quality improvement program. During a 1-month quality improvement program conducted in August 2018, a total of 1211 adult patients admitted to our PACU were examined. Moderate-to-severe thirst was identified in 675 cases (55.8%). The use of glycopyrrolate during anesthesia was associated with moderate-to-severe thirst (71.7% versus 66.4%, respectively, p = 0.047; adjusted odds ratio: 1.46, p = 0.013). Following a safety assessment, ice cubes, room temperature water, or an oral moisturizer were offered to patients. A generalized estimating equation model revealed that ice cubes were the most effective means for thirst management—resulting in an estimated thirst intensity reduction of 0.93 NRS points at each 15-min interval assessment (p < 0.001)—followed by room temperature water (− 0.92/time-point, p < 0.001) and the oral moisturizer (− 0.60/time-point; p < 0.001). Patient satisfaction (rated from 1 [definitely dissatisfied] to 5 [very satisfied]) followed a similar pattern (ice cubes: 4.22 ± 0.58; room temperature water: 4.08 ± 0.55; oral moisturizer: 3.90 ± 0.55, p < 0.001). The use of glycopyrrolate—an anticholinergic agent that reduces salivary secretion—was the main independent risk factor for moderate-to-severe post-operative thirst. Our findings may provide clues towards an optimized management of thirst in the immediate post-operative period.
Different organic manure sources and NPK fertilizer on soil chemical properties, growth, yield and quality of okra
Authors: Adekiya Aruna Olasekan , Ejue Wutem Sunny , Olayanju Adeniyi , Dunsin Oluwagbenga , Aboyeji Christopher Muyiwa , Aremu Charity , Adegbite Kehinde , Akinpelu Olanike
Published: September 2020

Use of organic manures to meet the nutrient requirement of crop would be an inevitable practice in the years to come for sustainable agriculture since organic manures generally improve the soil physical, chemical and biological properties. Hence, field experiments were carried out in 2017 and 2018 to compare the impact of different organic manures and NPK fertilizer on soil properties, growth, yield, proximate and mineral contents of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.). The treatments each year 2017 and 2018 consisted of: rabbit manure, cow dung, poultry manure, green manure [Mexican sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia Asteraceae)], pig manure, NPK 15-15-15 fertilizer applied at 120 kg N ha−1 and a control (no manure/inorganic fertilizer). The seven treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replication. Organic manures and NPK fertilizer increased the soil organic matter (OM), N, P, K, Ca and Mg (NPK fertilizer did not increase OM, Ca and Mg significantly), growth, yield, minerals, protein, ash, carbohydrate and mucilage contents of okra fruit as compared with control. Organic manures improved okra yield compared with NPK fertilizer. Okra growth and yield parameters were significantly higher in 2018 compared with 2017. Control, rabbit manure, cow dung, poultry manure, green manure, pig manure and NPK fertilizer in 2018 increased the pod yield of okra by 9.7%, 35.3%, 57.9%, 36.2%, 39.2%, 45.5% and 3.2%, respectively compare with the same treatment in 2017. Amongst various organic manures, poultry manure produced significantly higher plant growth, yield, mineral and proximate composition of okra because of its high soil chemical properties which could be related to its lowest C: N ratio, lignin and lignin: N ratio. Results also showed that okra grown during high intensity rainfall has higher yield but with reduced quality except its mucilage content. Therefore, planting of okra with poultry manure under moderate rainfall will enhance the health benefit from the fruit, however, those that desire its mucilage content planting during high rainfall is recommended.
Multimodal combination of GC × GC-HRTOFMS and SIFT-MS for asthma phenotyping using exhaled breath
Authors: Stefanuto Pierre-Hugues , Zanella Delphine , Vercammen Joeri , Henket Monique , Schleich Florence , Louis Renaud , Focant Jean-François
Published: September 2020

Chronic inflammatory lung diseases impact more than 300 million of people worldwide. Because they are not curable, these diseases have a high impact on both the quality of life of patients and the healthcare budget. The stability of patient condition relies mostly on constant treatment adaptation and lung function monitoring. However, due to the variety of inflammation phenotypes, almost one third of the patients receive an ineffective treatment. To improve phenotyping, we evaluated the complementarity of two techniques for exhaled breath analysis: full resolving comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled to high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC × GC-HRTOFMS) and rapid screening selected ion flow tube MS (SIFT-MS). GC × GC-HRTOFMS has a high resolving power and offers a full overview of sample composition, providing deep insights on the ongoing biology. SIFT-MS is usually used for targeted analyses, allowing rapid classification of samples in defined groups. In this study, we used SIFT-MS in a possible untargeted full-scan mode, where it provides pattern-based classification capacity. We analyzed the exhaled breath of 50 asthmatic patients. Both techniques provided good classification accuracy (around 75%), similar to the efficiency of other clinical tools routinely used for asthma phenotyping. Moreover, our study provides useful information regarding the complementarity of the two techniques.
Genetic basis of falling risk susceptibility in the UK Biobank Study
Authors: Trajanoska Katerina , Seppala Lotta J. , Medina-Gomez Carolina , Hsu Yi-Hsiang , Zhou Sirui , van Schoor Natasja M. , de Groot Lisette C. P. G. M. , Karasik David , Richards J. Brent , Kiel Douglas P. , Uitterlinden Andre G. , Perry John R. B. , van der Velde Nathalie , Day Felix R. , Rivadeneira Fernando
Published: September 2020

Both extrinsic and intrinsic factors predispose older people to fall. We performed a genome-wide association analysis to investigate how much of an individual’s fall susceptibility can be attributed to genetics in 89,076 cases and 362,103 controls from the UK Biobank Study. The analysis revealed a small, but significant SNP-based heritability (2.7%) and identified three novel fall-associated loci (Pcombined ≤ 5 × 10−8). Polygenic risk scores in two independent settings showed patterns of polygenic inheritance. Risk of falling had positive genetic correlations with fractures, identifying for the first time a pathway independent of bone mineral density. There were also positive genetic correlations with insomnia, neuroticism, depressive symptoms, and different medications. Negative genetic correlations were identified with muscle strength, intelligence and subjective well-being. Brain, and in particular cerebellum tissue, showed the highest gene expression enrichment for fall-associated variants. Overall, despite the highly heterogenic nature underlying fall risk, a proportion of the susceptibility can be attributed to genetics.
Investigations into the source attribution of party sparklers using trace elemental analysis and chemometrics
Authors: D'Uva Joshua A. , DeTata David , May Christopher D. , Lewis Simon W.
Published: September 2020

In Australia, party sparklers are commonly used to initiate or prepare inorganic based homemade explosives (HMEs) as they are the most easily accessible and inexpensive pyrotechnic available on the market.
A lab in a bento box: an autonomous centrifugal microfluidic system for an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
Authors: Abe Takaaki , Okamoto Shunya , Taniguchi Akinobu , Fukui Michiyasu , Yamaguchi Akinobu , Utsumi Yuichi , Ukita Yoshiaki
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we report on the demonstration of a portable immunoassay system consisting of a small centrifugal microfluidic device driver (bento box) and a centrifugal microfluidic device made of polypropylene and fabricated by injection molding.
Stimulated Raman scattering by intracavity mixing of nanosecond laser excitation and fluorescence in acoustically levitated droplets
Authors: Bierstedt Andreas , Warschat Carsten , You Yi , Rurack Knut , Riedel Jens
Published: September 2020

Stimulated Raman scattering in droplets is achieved with just one fixed wavelength laser by exploiting the spherical symmetry of the droplets for intracavity excitation inside the whispering gallery mode of the resonator as well as addition of dye.
Oxygen exchange in Bi2MoO6nanosheets with different thicknesses during oxidative dehydrogenation of 1-butene
Authors: Lao Jiazheng , Wan Chao , Cheng Dang-guo , Chen Fengqiu , Zhan Xiaoli
Published: September 2020

A series of Bi2MoO6nanosheet catalysts with different thicknesses were synthesized for oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) of 1-butene and the oxygen exchange process during ODH was clarified.
Transition-metal-free trifluoromethylative difunctionalization of olefins and alkynes: approaches and challenges ahead
Authors: Keerthika K. , Nath Shounak , Geetharani K.
Published: September 2020

Transition metal free trifluoromethylative difunctionalization of olefins and alkynes represents one of the most efficient methods to generate pharmaceutically and agrochemically important organofluoride compounds.
Increasing stability, efficiency, and fundamental understanding of lithium-mediated electrochemical nitrogen reduction
Authors: Andersen Suzanne Z. , Statt Michael J. , Bukas Vanessa J. , Shapel Sarah G. , Pedersen Jakob B. , Krempl Kevin , Saccoccio Mattia , Chakraborty Debasish , Kibsgaard Jakob , Vesborg Peter C. K. , Nørskov Jens , Chorkendorff Ib
Published: September 2020

Novel cycling method that significantly increases stability and efficiency of the lithium-mediated electrochemical nitrogen reduction process.
Toward ideal hole transport materials: a review on recent progress in dopant-free hole transport materials for fabricating efficient and stable perovskite solar cells
Authors: Yin Xinxing , Song Zhaoning , Li Zaifang , Tang Weihua
Published: September 2020

A review on the fundamental understanding and rational design of ideal, dopant-free HTMs for fabricating efficient and stable perovskite solar cells.
Prebiotic effects of pectooligosaccharides obtained from lemon peel on the microbiota from elderly donors using an in vitro continuous colon model (TIM-2)
Authors: Míguez Beatriz , Vila Carlos , Venema Koen , Parajó Juan Carlos , Alonso José Luis
Published: September 2020

The development of new prebiotics capable of modulating the gut microbiota in the elderly has become an area of great interest due to the particular vulnerability and frailty of this population.
Development of whole-cell and cell-free biosensors for the detection and differentiation of organic and inorganic forms of copper
Authors: Costello Alan , Parker Joanne , Clynes Martin , Murphy Richard
Published: September 2020

The modern world has seen exposure of bacterial communities to toxic metals at selective levels. This manifests itself both intentionally, through medicines and un-intentionally through waste streams. There is growing concern that selective exposure to metals may be linked to microbial resistance to antibiotics. For a microbe to become resistant to a specific metal it must first come in contact with it. The transition metal copper has the ability to enter bacterial cells without need for a copper specific uptake mechanism. Copper is commonly used as an antimicrobial in the healthcare industry, consumer products and as a growth promoter of livestock in the agricultural sector. Here we report a study into the uptake of different organic and inorganic sources of copper. A whole-cell bacterial biosensor was developed to quantify the specific uptake of copper from various sources. Furthermore, a cell-free sensor was utilized to investigate the response to copper sources when uptake is eliminated as a factor. The data within suggest inorganic copper to have greatly reduced uptake compared to organic sources and that there is significant difference between copper oxides, Cu2O and CuO.
Electronic and excitonic properties of ultrathin (In,Ga)N layers: the role of alloy and monolayer width fluctuations
Authors: Tanner Daniel S. P. , Schulz Stefan
Published: September 2020

Atomistic many-body calculations reveal that small structural inhomogeneities in ultrathin (In,Ga)N layers may lead to indirect excitons.
A hydrogen peroxide activatable nanoprobe for light-controlled “double-check” multi-colour fluorescence imaging
Authors: Zhang Xing , Fu Youxin , Liu Jianping , Qian Guangren , Zhang Junji , Zhang Run , Xu Zhi Ping
Published: September 2020

We report a photochromic molecule doped polymer nanoprobe in which the emission can be modulated by light and lysosomal hydrogen peroxide for multicolour fluorescence “double-check” imaging.
In situ surface-enhanced electronic and vibrational Raman scattering spectroscopy at metal/molecule interfaces
Authors: Inagaki Motoharu , Motobayashi Kenta , Ikeda Katsuyoshi
Published: September 2020

Both information about adsorbates and surface charges at the metal/dielectric interface were simultaneously obtained using in situ SERS.
Pyrazoloanthrone-functionalized fluorescent copolymer for the detection and rapid analysis of nitroaromatics
Authors: Saravanan S. , Ahmad Rafiq , Kasthuri S. , Pal Kunal , Raviteja S. , Nagaraaj P. , Hoogenboom Richard , Nutalapati Venkatramaiah , Maji Samarendra
Published: September 2020

Pyrazoloanthrone functionalized copolymer exhibit high selectivity and sensitivity towards TNP in aqueous medium in presence of other competitive explosive analytes.
Investigation of angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory tri-peptides: a combination of 3D-QSAR and molecular docking simulations
Authors: Wang Fangfang , Zhou Bo
Published: September 2020

Angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) is a key enzyme in the regulation of peripheral blood pressure and electrolyte homeostasis.
Study on the unsteady state oxidative coupling of methane: effects of oxygen species from O2, surface lattice oxygen, and CO2 on the C2+ selectivity
Authors: Yoon Suji , Lim Seoyeon , Choi Jae-Wook , Suh Dong Jin , Song Kwang Ho , Ha Jeong-Myeong
Published: September 2020

This study examined the effects of oxygen species on the unsteady-state oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) using a lengthy catalyst bed of Na2WO4/Mn/SiO2.
Ultrasensitive and low detection limit of acetone gas sensor based on ZnO/SnO2 thick films
Authors: Chen Yanping , Cao Yue
Published: September 2020

XRD patterns of ZnO/SnO2 powders.
Near infrared absorption/emission perylenebisimide fluorophores with geometry relaxation-induced large Stokes shift
Authors: Ma Jie , Zhang Yizhi , Zhang Hongbo , He Xifeng
Published: September 2020

The dyes with near infrared absorption/emission and large stokes shifts induced by geometry relaxation were prepared.
Co-doped carbon materials synthesized with polymeric precursors as bifunctional electrocatalysts
Authors: Karajagi Imran , Ramya K. , Ghosh P. C. , Sarkar A. , Rajalakshmi N.
Published: September 2020

Metal free bifunctional catalysts based on co-doped carbon materials synthesized from polymeric precursors via a simple pyrolysis route with high cyclic stability and low polarization for Zn–air batteries.
CO2 electroreduction to fuels on mesoporous carbon-embedded copper nanoparticles
Authors: Sahin Nihat , Silva Wanderson O. , Camilo Mariana R. , Ticianelli Edson A. , Lima Fabio H. B. , Parmentier Julien , Comminges Clément , Napporn Teko W. , Kokoh Kouakou B.
Published: September 2020

An electrocatalyst with Cu nanoparticles embedded in a mesoporous carbon was prepared by the soft-template route using a green process. Its particular structure boosts its performance for CO2RR regarding selectivity and charge/mass transfers.
Unfolding mechanism and free energy landscape of single, stable, alpha helices at low pull speeds
Authors: Bergues-Pupo Ana Elisa , Lipowsky Reinhard , Vila Verde Ana
Published: September 2020

SAHs under tension unfold residue-by-residue even at near-equilibrium pull speeds; this mechanical response is reproduced by the Sticky Chain Model, which helps to quantify the average 1-D free energy landscape of amino acids.
X-ray scattering study on the crystalline and semi-crystalline structure of water/PEG mixtures in their eutectic phase diagram
Authors: Kuttich Björn , Matt Alexander , Appel Christian , Stühn Bernd
Published: September 2020

Water/PEG mixtures start to phase separate below the liquidus line. Above the eutectic temperature the solid phase is either pure water ice or semi-crystalline PEG. Below the eutectic line both crystals coexist, no mixed-crystalline phase is found.
Facile route to an organosulfur composite from biomass-derived guaiacol and waste sulfur
Authors: Karunarathna Menisha S. , Lauer Moira K. , Smith Rhett C.
Published: September 2020

A simple approach to a high sulfur-content material from biomass-derived guaiacol and waste sulfur is introduced.
KR-12 coating of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) surface via polydopamine improves osteointegration and antibacterial activity in vivo
Authors: Meng Xiangchao , Zhang Jue , Chen Jun , Nie Binen , Yue Bing , Zhang Wei , Lyu Zhuocheng , Long Teng , Wang You
Published: September 2020

KR-12 was grafted onto the surface of PEEK, which improved the hydrophilicity of the material surface, promoted cell adhesion, osteogenic differentiation and osseointegration, while also endowing the appreciable antibacterial activity on the material surface.
Polymeric nanoparticles based on CDs with photoreversible dual-color fluorescence modulation
Authors: Deng Mengyu , Zhang Yangdaiyi , Wang Yufei , Jiang Shimei
Published: September 2020

The fluorescence emission of nanoparticles could be reversibly switched between blue-green and red fluorescence with UV/vis light irradiation.
Sublimable cationic iridium(iii) complexes for red-emitting diodes with high colour purity
Authors: Liu Ruihuan , Ma Dongxin , Duan Lian
Published: September 2020

Cationic iridium(iii) complexes show great promise as phosphorescent materials due to their superior photophysical properties and electrochemical stabilities.
Digital Proficiency Is Not a Significant Barrier for Taking Up Hearing Services With a Hybrid Online and Face-to-Face Model
Authors: Ratanjee-Vanmali Husmita , Swanepoel De Wet , Laplante-Lévesque Ariane
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of self-perceived digital proficiency on the uptake of hearing services through a hybrid online and face-to-face hearing health care model.

Method

Adults were recruited via online methods to complete an online hearing screening test within the greater Durban area in South Africa. On submission of contact details after failing the screening, contact was made via telephone to assess readiness for further hearing care. If motivated and willing to continue, a face-to-face appointment for diagnostic hearing testing was confirmed, at which time an e-mail with an online mobile device and computer proficiency survey was sent. Hearing services were offered using combined online and face-to-face methods.

Results

Within 2 years (June 2017 to June 2019), 1,259 people from the target location submitted their details for the clinic audiologist to contact, of whom 931 participants (73.95%) failed the screening test. Of these participants, 5.69% (53/931, 57.41% men) attended a face-to-face diagnostic hearing evaluation. Mobile device and computer proficiency scores were not a predictor of acquiring hearing services. Age was the only significant predictor (
p
= .018) for those continuing with hearing care. Patients who continued with hearing care by acquiring hearing aids and support services were older (
M
= 73.63 years,
SD
= 11.62) and on average aware of their hearing loss for a longer time (
M
= 14.71 years,
SD
= 15.77), as compared to those who discontinued hearing health care who were younger (
M
= 59.21 years,
SD
= 14.42) and on average aware of their hearing loss for a shorter time (
M
= 6.37 years,
SD
= 9.26).

Conclusions

Digital proficiency is not a predictor for acquiring hearing services through a hybrid online and face-to-face hearing care model. Hybrid services could allow professionals to assist patients in a combination of face-to-face and online services tailored to meet individual needs, including convenience and personalized care.
Knowledge and Awareness of Ear Protection Devices for Sound Sensitivity by Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Neave-DiToro Dorothy , Fuse Akiko , Bergen Michael
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Sensitivity to sounds and atypical reactions to sensory input by individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been reported in the literature. In response to this sensitivity, some individuals use ear protection devices (EPDs) such as noise-canceling headphones, earplugs, or earmuffs to attenuate the perceived unpleasant sounds. Given the communication deficits often noted in this population and the essential role of hearing in speech and language development, the impact of wearing EPDs to attenuate sound needs to be explored. The purpose of this study was to obtain information from various stakeholders regarding their opinions about use of EPDs in individuals with ASD and perceived benefits and possible concerns of EPD use.

Method

A survey was constructed to assess the opinions of speech-language pathologists, audiologists, teachers, and graduate students about EPDs among individuals with ASD. A total of 255 professionals and graduate students completed the survey.

Results

The vast majority of respondents indicated a level of awareness of EPDs within this population. Regarding observed use of such devices, the majority of participants (66%) reported observing individuals with ASD using EPDs. The most commonly used devices observed were headphones (91%), followed by earmuffs (44%) and earplugs (33%). Respondents who had experience recommending and/or using EPDs with individuals with ASD were asked to report on major reasons why the devices were used and the perceived benefits and possible negative effects.

Conclusions

There appears to be uncertainty among various stakeholders of the benefits and possible negative effects of EPD use by individuals with ASD. Additionally, there is a dearth of research in this area, and the necessity for specific guidelines for recommending and monitoring EPD use is indicated.
An Exploration of Early Spelling in Kindergarten Children With Hearing Loss
Authors: Aho Carson , Werfel Krystal L.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine if group differences exist in spelling accuracy or spelling errors between kindergarten children with hearing loss and children with normal hearing loss.

Method

Participants included 23 kindergarten children with hearing loss and 21 children with normal hearing. All children used spoken English as their primary language, and the children with hearing loss used amplification. Participants completed three single-word spelling assessments, a language assessment, and an oral reading assessment. Spelling was scored holistically and with two linguistic-based scoring systems.

Results

Children with hearing loss did not differ significantly from children with normal hearing in spelling accuracy or linguistic-based spelling error analyses.

Conclusions

The current study provides evidence that children with hearing loss in kindergarten do not differ significantly in their spelling errors compared to children with normal hearing, aside from a lower proportion of mental graphemic representation errors. With these data, in combination with previous research conducted, speech-language pathologists can further individualize treatment to focus on these specific error patterns. Additionally, this focus of treatment can help better prepare children with hearing loss for spelling and writing tasks in later grades. Future research should be conducted to determine when in elementary school the differences in spelling errors are initially seen.
Video Visual Scene Displays With Dynamic Text: Effect on Single-Word Reading by an Adolescent With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Mandak Kelsey , Light Janice , McNaughton David
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the Transition to Literacy (T2L) feature within video visual scene displays (VSDs) on the single-word reading of academic vocabulary concepts (i.e., weather concepts) by a preliterate adolescent with cerebral palsy and minimal speech.

Method

A single-subject, multiple-probe, across-word-sets design was used to evaluate the effects of the intervention. The intervention used an augmentative and alternative communication app programmed with video VSDs embedded with hot spots with the T2L feature to teach the adolescent 12 academic vocabulary words.

Results

The adolescent acquired all target words successfully with only minimal exposure to the written words through the app and was able to generalize her learning to two novel tasks. Using Tau-U to evaluate the size of the observed effects, there were very large effects across all word sets.

Conclusions

The findings from this study demonstrate the effectiveness of the T2L feature to improve single-word reading in preliterate individuals with minimal speech. The use of video VSDs and T2L technology together may offer professionals a unique way to complement current augmentative and alternative communication devices and literacy instruction for adolescents with minimal speech who are preliterate.
Natural DC‐link voltage balance in a single‐phase NPC inverter with four‐level legs and novel modulation method
Authors: Stala Robert
Published: September 2020

This study presents a concept of modulation of a single‐phase seven‐level neutral point clamped (NPC) converter with natural DC‐link voltage balance and symmetrical DC‐link capacitors discharge. The method is analysed in a single‐phase full‐bridge inverter composed of four‐level diode‐clamped legs (4L‐FBCLD) which utilises three capacitors in a DC‐link. Under the classic pulse width modulation (PWM) technique, the discharge of DC‐link capacitors is unequal in a converter operating with active power. The proposed modulation assures symmetrical discharge of the DC‐link capacitors and is achieved in a two‐stage design. In the first stage, the carrier‐based phase disposition PWM technique with modified carriers is used. In the second stage, the pulses are directed to suitable switches with the use of a state‐machine decoder. The switching patterns are different in each level of modulation and are used to trigger natural balancing in the converter on the first and third level of modulation. This study presents the concepts of switching patterns, PWM generation, as well as the simulation and results of the experiment. The latter demonstrates the operation and feasibility of the 4L‐FBCLD, symmetrical DC‐link capacitor discharge and natural balancing in the converter.
High step‐up single switch quadratic modified SEPIC converter for DC microgrid applications
Authors: Maroti Pandav Kiran , Esmaeili Soroush , Iqbal Atif , Meraj Mohammad
Published: September 2020

A new non‐isolated high‐voltage gain single switch quadratic modified single‐ended primary‐inductor capacitor (SEPIC) DC–DC converter is proposed in this study. The proposed converter consists of a modified SEPIC converter along with a boosting module to obtain a high‐voltage gain at a low‐duty ratio. It has all advantages of the SEPIC converter such as continuous input current, which makes it applicable for renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic systems. The proposed converter is able to attain a higher voltage gain in comparison with similar previous transformer‐less DC–DC converters. Also, unlike high‐voltage transformer‐based DC–DC converters, it does not suffer from leakage inductances. Also, the proposed converter presents low‐voltage stress across the switch and output diode. The proposed converter is controlled through a single switch and there is no limitation for a range of duty ratios. The voltage gain analysis of the proposed converter is done in continuous conduction mode and discontinuous conduction mode, also comparative analysis is done with the existing topologies with similar features. The proposed converter is designed for 400 V DC microgrid applications. The theoretical analysis of the proposed converter is verified by the experimental investigation in the laboratory.
Port‐controlled Hamiltonian‐based controller for an interleaved boost PFC converter
Authors: Shipra Kumari , Maurya Rakesh , Sharma Shambhu N.
Published: September 2020

This study reveals the energy shaping port‐controlled Hamiltonian passivity‐based control (PCH‐PBC) technique for an interleaved boost power factor correction (IBPFC) converter. First, the mathematical modelling of an IBPFC converter is developed under all possible operating modes. Then, the average state‐space model of the system is established with the help of averaging state‐space technique. Further, the PCH technique is applied for controller design and the stability analysis of the proposed system is carried out. A proportional‐integral (PI) controller is integrated with the PCH‐PBC controller to achieve minimum steady‐state errors. Finally, a Simulink model of the proposed system is developed using the Simulink toolbox of MATLAB software and its performances are studied under several operating conditions and verified through experimentation. To assess the system performance in terms of efficiency and input current total harmonic distortion (THD), the comparative study is also carried out under different controllers. Based on the simulation outcomes, the proposed controller is compared with the benchmark PI controller, adaptive passivity‐based controller in terms of different control parameters. The performances of the controller are also investigated against dynamic variations at the input voltage and the load. It is observed that the proposed PCH‐PBC controller achieves robustness against the aforesaid variations.
New multiplexing method to add a new signal in the Galileo E1 band
Authors: Ortega Lorenzo , Poulliat Charly , Boucheret Marie Laure , Aubault‐Roudier Marion , Al‐Bitar Hanaa
Published: September 2020

This work addresses the problem of integrating a new signal in the Galileo E1 band. Thus, the arising question is how the existing multiplexing methods can be efficiently used or modified to integrate a new binary signal in the Galileo E1 band with the existing Galileo E1 signals. To this end, in this study, the authors first select three efficient multiplexing methods from the state of the art (i.e. interplexing, POCET and CEMIC methods) to multiplex a new Galileo signal along with the Galileo E1 legacy signals in a constant envelope modulation. Moreover, they evaluate their performance and main advantages and drawbacks. Secondly, in order to improve both performance and flexibility/adaptability of the multiplexing method, a modified CEMIC method, called ACEMIC, is proposed. This method allows to design modulations which maximise the power efficiency with respect to a given peak‐to‐average‐power‐ratio constraint. Finally, they compare the previous multiplexing methods in terms of power signal distribution, constant envelope fluctuation and power efficiency.
Modelling and analysis of celestial Doppler difference velocimetry navigation considering solar characteristics
Authors: Liu Jin , Wang Ting , Ning Xiao‐Lin , Kang Zhi‐Wei
Published: September 2020

The traditional method considers the Sun as a rigid sphere and diffuse radiator, and neglects the solar characteristics. However, this leads to high bias in the measurement model. In this study, to build a more realistic bias model and a statistical model of noise, the authors consider three solar characteristics, including the solar differential rotation, Lambert radiator and small‐scale solar activities. After mathematical derivation, the bias model of the solar Doppler difference measurement considering the solar differential rotation and Lambert radiator is built. Simulation results demonstrate that the difference between the proposed bias model and the traditional one is on the order of 0.1–1 m/s, which is slowly‐varying and non‐ignorable. Therefore, the bias model considering the solar differential rotation and Lambert radiator is meaningful. After mathematical analysis, they also find that small‐scale solar activities cause an extremely low error in the solar Doppler difference measurement. Moreover, the noise of the Doppler difference is within 2 m/s. Due to the randomness of small‐scale solar activities, the extremely low errors caused by activities can be regarded as noises. These results provide a reference for the measurement modelling of the solar Doppler difference velocimetry navigation.
The great Kite in the sky: A LOFAR observation of the radio source in Abell 2626
Authors: Ignesti A. , Shimwell T. , Brunetti G. , Gitti M. , Intema H. , van Weeren R. J. , Hardcastle M. J. , Clarke A. O. , Botteon A. , Di Gennaro G. , Brüggen M. , Browne I. W. A. , Mandal S. , Röttgering H. J. A. , Cuciti V. , de Gasperin F. , Cassano R. , Scaife A. M. M.
Published: September 2020

Context.The radio source at the center of the galaxy cluster Abell 2626, also known as the Kite, stands out for its unique morphology composed of four symmetric arcs. Previous studies have probed the properties of this source at different frequencies and its interplay with the surrounding thermal plasma, but the puzzle of its origin is still unsolved.

Aims.We use a new LOw-Frequency ARray (LOFAR) observation from the LOFAR Two-meter Sky Survey at 144 MHz to investigate the origin of the Kite.

Methods.We present a detailed analysis of the new radio data, which we combined with archival radio and X-ray observations. We produced a new, resolved spectral index map of the source with a resolution of 7″ and we studied the spatial correlation of radio and X-ray emission to investigate the interplay between thermal and nonthermal plasma.

Results.The new LOFAR data changed our view of the Kite because we discovered two steep-spectrum (α <  −1.5) plumes of emission connected to the arcs. The spectral analysis shows, for the first time, a spatial trend of the spectrum along the arcs with evidence of curved synchrotron spectra and a spatial correlation with the X-ray surface brightness. On the basis of our results, we propose that the Kite was originally an X-shaped radio galaxy whose fossil radio plasma, after the end of the activity of the central active galactic nucleus, has been compressed as a consequence of motions of the thermal plasma encompassing the galaxy. The interplay between the compression and advection of the fossil plasma, with the restarting of the nuclear activity of the central galaxy, could have enhanced the radio emission of the fossil plasma producing the arcs of the Kite. We also present the first, low-frequency observation of a jellyfish galaxy in the same field, in which we detect extended, low-frequency emission without a counterpart at higher frequencies.
Simulation fragmentation of samples of rock at explosive loading
Authors: Trofimov Vitaly , Shipovskii Ivan
Published: September 2020

Research to improve the definition of rational parameters for blasting is becoming increasingly important and valuable. This is especially true in the era of digital technology, which allows miners to realize a holistic vision of optimizing the entire process - from the quarry to the receipt of the final product at the processing plant. The proposed computer simulation based on the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) method in AUTODYN computer complex to optimize the explosion results by integrating the initial data - charge parameters and rock properties, is aimed at improving measures that reduce the total cost of drilling and blasting, increasing mining productivity and safety. The presented calculations make it possible to estimate the number of fragments and their initial expansion velocity for various explosives.
Strength characteristics of fiber-reinforced light shotcrete
Authors: Alekseev Konstantin , Kurilko Alexsandr
Published: September 2020

The article presents the regularities of the flexural and compressive strength variation, as well as the energy intensity of destruction of light heat-shielding vermiculite concrete, depending on the content of polypropylene or basalt fiber. The paper stresses that the greatest increase in flexural strength of 40% is observed at the polypropylene or basalt fiber that the greatest increase in flexural strength of 40% is observed at the polypropylene or basalt fiber of 2 and 2-4% respectively. As the basalt fiber content increases from 1 to 4%, the compressive strength increases from 42 to 83%. The resistance of vermiculite concrete to dynamic bending loads when the polypropylene fiber ranges from 0.5 to 2% by a factor of 2.5 4.2. With basalt fiber content of 1 to 4% the energy intensity of destruction increases 1.5 2.5 times.Specific energy intensity of destruction of samples reinforced with basalt fiber increases by 2.3 ÷ 2.7 times during volumetric destruction of the specimens under study on a vertical pile driver. The regularities obtained in the course of the studies indicate that fiber reinforcement of light heat-shielding vermiculite concrete increase its strength characteristics and thereby expand the scope of its application.
Flotation froth feature analysis using computer vision technology
Authors: Romachev Artem , Kuznetsov Valentin , Ivanov Egor , Jörg Benndorf
Published: September 2020

The possibility of machine vision application in the field of flotation efficiency evaluation was studied. Algorithm for froth image analysis was developed with aim of obtaining bubble’s size distribution. Algorithm consists of two parts: image processing and object detection. Algorithm’s work was verified on the sulfide flotation froth. As result, mathematical correlations for air flow rate, mean bubble diameter and surface area bubble flux were established.
The influence of extensive caving zones on the state and behavior of the surface as a result of underground mining works
Authors: Fedorov Evgeny , Kassymkanova Khaini-Kamal , Jangulova Gulnar , Miletenko Natalia
Published: September 2020

The article discusses the features of the development of the Donskoy chromite deposit and the improvement of the applied development system with self-caving of ore. For a system with self-destruction of ore, as well as for other similar systems, the weakest point is mining under the collapsed massif, which largely affects the stability of mine workings, their safety for the entire period of stope excavation, the effect of extensive zones of collapse on the state and behavior surface. This problem is one of the most important and urgent, especially with the transition of mining operations to deeper horizons, where the technological features of the mine field are significantly complicated. Therefore, the formation of extensive zones of collapsed rocks in the process of stope excavation leads to the development of negative processes for the formation of extremely high loads on the support of mine workings, and in certain geotechnical situations, the collapse zones affect the state of the day surface, where subsidence is possible up to the formation of craters. All this can lead to disastrous consequences, both in mine conditions and on the surface. The study of the formation of caving zones during the development of ore deposits is an urgent task.
Improvement of the automated seismic and acoustic monitoring system “Prognoz-ADS” main elements
Authors: Anikin Pavel , Kursakin Gennady , Fedotova Iuliia
Published: September 2020

The results of theoretical and experimental studies have established the need to improve and modernize the highly sensitive piezoelectric resonant type PeA12 converters used in the seismic monitoring system, which have been successfully used for more than 30 years in the rock mass at a number of rockburst hazardous mines. The main problem of the accuracy measurement by the geophone PeA12 (and other models based on it) is due to the presence of several resonances in the operating frequency band. The developed upgraded model of the AP2088 converter has successfully passed industrial testing as part of the automated monitoring system “Prognoz-ADS” at rockburst hazardous mine. During the test period (more than 1 year), seismoacoustic events were registered and verified in the rock mass, including rock burst and shocks in the rock mass. Thus, the use of highly sensitive (u10 V/m•s-2) piezoacoustic converters AP2088 as part of the automated system provides registration of acoustic emission in the rock mass in the frequency range from 0.1 to 10 kHz with the energy of seismic events from 10 to 106 J, which will increase the reliability of the forecast of geodynamic phenomena and technogenic seismicity in the control zone of the system.