bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 mitigation by digital contact tracing and contact prevention (app-based social exposure warnings)
Authors: Soldano Germán J. , Fraire Juan A. , Finochietto Jorge M. , Quiroga Rodrigo
Published: July 2021

A plethora of measures are being combined in the attempt to reduce SARS-CoV-2 spread. Due to its sustainability, contact tracing is one of the most frequently applied interventions worldwide, albeit with mixed results. We evaluate the performance of digital contact tracing for different infection detection rates and response time delays. We also introduce and analyze a novel strategy we call contact prevention, which emits high exposure warnings to smartphone users according to Bluetooth-based contact counting. We model the effect of both strategies on transmission dynamics in SERIA, an agent-based simulation platform that implements population-dependent statistical distributions. Results show that contact prevention remains effective in scenarios with high diagnostic/response time delays and low infection detection rates, which greatly impair the effect of traditional contact tracing strategies. Contact prevention could play a significant role in pandemic mitigation, especially in developing countries where diagnostic and tracing capabilities are inadequate. Contact prevention could thus sustainably reduce the propagation of respiratory viruses while relying on available technology, respecting data privacy, and most importantly, promoting community-based awareness and social responsibility. Depending on infection detection and app adoption rates, applying a combination of digital contact tracing and contact prevention could reduce pandemic-related mortality by 20–56%.
Modeling and optimization of radish root extract drying as peroxidase source using spouted bed dryer
Authors: Hamedi Shahrbanoo , Afsahi M. Mehdi , Riahi-Madvar Ali , Mohebbi Ali
Published: July 2021

The main advantages of the dried enzymes are the lower cost of storage and longer time of preservation for industrial applications. In this study, the spouted bed dryer was utilized for drying the garden radish (Raphanus sativus L.) root extract as a cost-effective source of the peroxidase enzyme. The response surface methodology (RSM) was used to evaluate the individual and interactive effects of main parameters (the inlet air temperature (T) and the ratio of air flow rate to the minimum spouting air flow rate (Q)) on the residual enzyme activity (REA). The maximum REA of 38.7% was obtained at T = 50 °C and Q = 1.4. To investigate the drying effect on the catalytic activity, the optimum reaction conditions (pH and temperature), as well as kinetic parameters, were investigated for the fresh and dried enzyme extracts (FEE and DEE). The obtained results showed that the optimum pH of DEE was decreased by 12.3% compared to FEE, while the optimum temperature of DEE compared to FEE increased by a factor of 85.7%. Moreover, kinetic parameters, thermal-stability, and shelf life of the enzyme were considerably improved after drying by the spouted bed. Overall, the results confirmed that a spouted bed reactor can be used as a promising method for drying heat-sensitive materials such as peroxidase enzyme.
Atypical periprosthetic femoral fractures after arthroplasty for fracture are at high risk of complications
Authors: Baba Tomonori , Uchino Masataka , Ochi Hironori , Ikuta Takuya , Saita Yoshitomo , Hagino Hiroshi , Nonomiya Hiroaki , Jingushi Seiya , Nakajima Takayuki , Ueda Yasuhisa , Kazuo Kaneko
Published: July 2021

It is difficult to investigate clinical features in a single-center study because atypical periprosthetic femoral fracture (APFF) is rare. This study aims to perform a nationwide survey of APFF to investigate the characteristics of this fracture and compare the clinical outcome with that of typical periprosthetic femoral fracture (typical PFF). A nationwide survey was performed asking for cooperation from 183 councilors of the Japanese Society for Fracture Repair. The subjects were patients with APFF injured between 2008 and 2017. The control group was comprised of patients with typical PFF of our facility injured in the same period. A total of 43 patients met the APFF definition. The control group was comprised of 75 patients with typical PFF. The rate of bisphosphonate use was significantly higher in the APFFs group than in the typical PFF group (62.8% and 32%, p < 0.02). The rate of cemented stem was significantly higher in the APFFs group than in the typical PFF group (30.2% and 6.7%, p < 0.001). In the patients with arthroplasty for hip fracture, multivariable logistic regression analyses showed that APFF was an independent risk factor of complications following the initial management (Odds ratio 11.1, 95% confidence interval 1.05–117.2, p = 0.045). However, no significant association between PFF and APFF was observed in the patients with arthroplasty for other hip diseases. The risk of complications was higher in the APFF group than in the typical PFF group in the patients with arthroplasty for fracture. When AFPP after arthroplasty for the fracture is suspected, it may be necessary to add not only internal fixation with a normal plate but also some additional treatment.
Influence of Ile655Val polymorphism on trastuzumab-induced cardiotoxicity in early-stage HER2 positive breast cancer
Authors: Vazdar Ljubica , Gabrić Ivo Darko , Kruljac Ivan , Pintarić Hrvoje , Šeparović Robert , Kirigin Biloš Lora Stanka , Pavlović Mirjana , Tečić Vuger Ana , Štefanović Mario
Published: July 2021

Trastuzumab has improved the prognosis of HER2 positive breast cancer, but cardiotoxicity remains a concern. We aimed to identify risk factors for trastuzumab-induced cardiotoxicity, with an emphasis on the HER2 Ile655Val single nucleotide polymorphism. This single-center case–control study included 1056 patients with early-stage HER2 positive breast cancer that received adjuvant trastuzumab. Cardiotoxicity was defined as a decline in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) > 15% in patients without previous cardiomyopathy, or > 10% in patients with baseline LVEF of < 50%. Patient characteristics and cardiac parameters were compared in 78 (7.38%) cases and 99 randomly assigned controls, and the polymorphism was genotyped using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Cardiotoxicity was independently associated with advanced age (P = 0.024), lower body mass index (P = 0.023), left breast involvement (P = 0.001), N3 status (P = 0.004), diabetes (P = 0.016), and a family history of coronary artery disease (P = 0.019). Genotype distribution was as follows: A/A (Ile/Ile) was found in 111 (62.7%) patients, A/G (Ile/Val) in 60 (33.9%) patients, and G/G (Val/Val) in 6 (3.4%) patients. The genotype was not associated with cardiotoxicity or the severity of heart failure, reversibility, and recovery time. We found no association between the HER2 Ile655Val polymorphism and trastuzumab-induced cardiotoxicity; therefore, we do not recommend routine cardiotoxicity-risk stratification using this polymorphism.
Universal Stokes’s nanomechanical viscometer
Authors: Chaudhary Komal , Munjal Pooja , Singh Kamal P.
Published: July 2021

Although, many conventional approaches have been used to measure viscosity of fluids, most methods do not allow non-contact, rapid measurements on small sample volume and have universal applicability to all fluids. Here, we demonstrate a simple yet universal viscometer, as proposed by Stokes more than a century ago, exploiting damping of capillary waves generated electrically and probed optically with sub-nanoscale precision. Using a low electric field local actuation of fluids we generate quasi-monochromatic propagating capillary waves and employ a pair of single-lens based compact interferometers to measure attenuation of capillary waves in real-time. Our setup allows rapid measurement of viscosity of a wide variety of polar, non-polar, transparent, opaque, thin or thick fluids having viscosity values varying over four orders of magnitude from $$10^{0}{-}10^{4}~\text{mPa} \, \text{s}$$

10
0

-

10
4

mPa

s

. Furthermore, we discuss two additional damping mechanisms for nanomechanical capillary waves caused by bottom friction and top nano-layer appearing in micro-litre droplets. Such self-stabilized droplets when coupled with precision interferometers form interesting microscopic platform for picomechanical optofluidics for fundamental, industrial and medical applications.
Haematopoietic and cardiac GPR55 synchronize post-myocardial infarction remodelling
Authors: Puhl Sarah-Lena , Hilby Michael , Kohlhaas Michael , Keidel Linus M. , Jansen Yvonne , Hristov Michael , Schindler Jakob , Maack Christoph , Steffens Sabine
Published: July 2021

While classical cannabinoid receptors are known to crucially impact on myocardial infarction (MI) repair, a function of the cannabinoid-sensitive receptor GPR55 herein is poorly understood. We investigated the role of GPR55 in cardiac physiology and post-MI inflammation and remodelling. Global GPR55−/− and wildtype (WT) mice were basally characterized or assigned to 1, 3 or 28 days permanent MI and subsequently analysed via pro-inflammatory and pro-hypertrophic parameters. GPR55−/− deficiency was basally associated with bradycardia, increased diastolic LV volume and sarcomere length and a subtle inflammatory phenotype. While infarct size and myeloid cell infiltration were unaffected by GPR55 depletion, acute cardiac chemokine production was prolonged post-MI. Concurrently, GPR55−/− hearts exhibited a premature expansion of pro-reparative and phagocytic macrophages paralleled by early up-regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) factors 3 days post-MI, which could be mimicked by sole haematopoietic GPR55 depletion. Moreover, global GPR55 deficiency mitigated MI-induced foetal gene re-programming and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, culminating in aggravated LV dilatation and infarct expansion. GPR55 regulates cardiac homeostasis and ischaemia responses by maintaining adequate LV filling and modulating three crucial processes post-MI: wound healing kinetics, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and maladaptive remodelling.
Transition between bipolar and abnormal bipolar resistive switching in amorphous oxides with a mobility edge
Authors: Ader Christiane , Falkenstein Andreas , Martin Manfred
Published: July 2021

Resistive switching is an important phenomenon for future memory devices such as resistance random access memories or neuronal networks. While there are different types of resistive switching, such as filament or interface switching, this work focuses on bulk switching in amorphous, binary oxides. Bulk switching was found experimentally in different oxides, for example in amorphous gallium oxide. The forms of the observed current–voltage curves differ, however, fundamentally. Even within the same material, both abnormal bipolar and normal bipolar resistive switching were found. Here, we use a new drift–diffusion model to theoretically investigate bulk switching in amorphous oxides where the electronic conductivity can be described by Mott’s concept of a mobility edge. We show not only that a strong, non-linear dependence of the electronic conductivity on the oxygen content is necessary for bulk switching but also that changing the geometry of the memristive device causes the transition between abnormal and normal bipolar switching.
A single session of moderate intensity exercise influences memory, endocannabinoids and brain derived neurotrophic factor levels in men
Authors: Marin Bosch Blanca , Bringard Aurélien , Logrieco Maria G. , Lauer Estelle , Imobersteg Nathalie , Thomas Aurélien , Ferretti Guido , Schwartz Sophie , Igloi Kinga
Published: July 2021

Regular physical exercise enhances memory functions, synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus, and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. Likewise, short periods of exercise, or acute exercise, benefit hippocampal plasticity in rodents, via increased endocannabinoids (especially anandamide, AEA) and BDNF release. Yet, it remains unknown whether acute exercise has similar effects on BDNF and AEA levels in humans, with parallel influences on memory performance. Here we combined blood biomarkers, behavioral, and fMRI measurements to assess the impact of a single session of physical exercise on associative memory and underlying neurophysiological mechanisms in healthy male volunteers. For each participant, memory was tested after three conditions: rest, moderate or high intensity exercise. A long-term memory retest took place 3 months later. At both test and retest, memory performance after moderate intensity exercise was increased compared to rest. Memory after moderate intensity exercise correlated with exercise-induced increases in both AEA and BNDF levels: while AEA was associated with hippocampal activity during memory recall, BDNF enhanced hippocampal memory representations and long-term performance. These findings demonstrate that acute moderate intensity exercise benefits consolidation of hippocampal memory representations, and that endocannabinoids and BNDF signaling may contribute to the synergic modulation of underlying neural plasticity mechanisms.
Climate change drives mountain butterflies towards the summits
Authors: Rödder Dennis , Schmitt Thomas , Gros Patrick , Ulrich Werner , Habel Jan Christian
Published: July 2021

Climate change impacts biodiversity and is driving range shifts of species and populations across the globe. To understand the effects of climate warming on biota, long-term observations of the occurrence of species and detailed knowledge on their ecology and life-history is crucial. Mountain species particularly suffer under climate warming and often respond to environmental changes by altitudinal range shifts. We assessed long-term distribution trends of mountain butterflies across the eastern Alps and calculated species’ specific annual range shifts based on field observations and species distribution models, counterbalancing the potential drawbacks of both approaches. We also compiled details on the ecology, behaviour and life-history, and the climate niche of each species assessed. We found that the highest altitudinal maxima were observed recently in the majority of cases, while the lowest altitudes of observations were recorded before 1980. Mobile and generalist species with a broad ecological amplitude tended to move uphill more than specialist and sedentary species. As main drivers we identified climatic conditions and topographic variables, such as insolation and solar irradiation. This study provides important evidence for responses of high mountain taxa to rapid climate change. Our study underlines the advantage of combining historical surveys and museum collection data with cutting-edge analyses.
The relationship between Google search interest for pulmonary symptoms and COVID-19 cases using dynamic conditional correlation analysis
Authors: Cinarka Halit , Uysal Mehmet Atilla , Cifter Atilla , Niksarlioglu Elif Yelda , Çarkoğlu Aslı
Published: July 2021

This study aims to evaluate the monitoring and predictive value of web-based symptoms (fever, cough, dyspnea) searches for COVID-19 spread. Daily search interests from Turkey, Italy, Spain, France, and the United Kingdom were obtained from Google Trends (GT) between January 1, 2020, and August 31, 2020. In addition to conventional correlational models, we studied the time-varying correlation between GT search and new case reports; we used dynamic conditional correlation (DCC) and sliding windows correlation models. We found time-varying correlations between pulmonary symptoms on GT and new cases to be significant. The DCC model proved more powerful than the sliding windows correlation model. This model also provided better at time-varying correlations (r ≥ 0.90) during the first wave of the pandemic. We used a root means square error (RMSE) approach to attain symptom-specific shift days and showed that pulmonary symptom searches on GT should be shifted separately. Web-based search interest for pulmonary symptoms of COVID-19 is a reliable predictor of later reported cases for the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Illness-specific symptom search interest on GT can be used to alert the healthcare system to prepare and allocate resources needed ahead of time.
Generation of T-cell-redirecting bispecific antibodies with differentiated profiles of cytokine release and biodistribution by CD3 affinity tuning
Authors: Haber Lauric , Olson Kara , Kelly Marcus P. , Crawford Alison , DiLillo David J. , Tavaré Richard , Ullman Erica , Mao Shu , Canova Lauren , Sineshchekova Olga , Finney Jennifer , Pawashe Arpita , Patel Supriya , McKay Ryan , Rizvi Sahar , Damko Ermelinda , Chiu Danica , Vazzana Kristin , Ram Priyanka , Mohrs Katja , D’Orvilliers Amanda , Xiao Jenny , Makonnen Sosina , Hickey Carlos , Arnold Cody , Giurleo Jason , Chen Ya Ping , Thwaites Courtney , Dudgeon Drew , Bray Kevin , Rafique Ashique , Huang Tammy , Delfino Frank , Hermann Aynur , Kirshner Jessica R. , Retter Marc W. , Babb Robert , MacDonald Douglas , Chen Gang , Olson William C. , Thurston Gavin , Davis Samuel , Lin John C. , Smith Eric
Published: July 2021

T-cell-redirecting bispecific antibodies have emerged as a new class of therapeutic agents designed to simultaneously bind to T cells via CD3 and to tumor cells via tumor-cell-specific antigens (TSA), inducing T-cell-mediated killing of tumor cells. The promising preclinical and clinical efficacy of TSAxCD3 antibodies is often accompanied by toxicities such as cytokine release syndrome due to T-cell activation. How the efficacy and toxicity profile of the TSAxCD3 bispecific antibodies depends on the binding affinity to CD3 remains unclear. Here, we evaluate bispecific antibodies that were engineered to have a range of CD3 affinities, while retaining the same binding affinity for the selected tumor antigen. These agents were tested for their ability to kill tumor cells in vitro, and their biodistribution, serum half-life, and anti-tumor activity in vivo. Remarkably, by altering the binding affinity for CD3 alone, we can generate bispecific antibodies that maintain potent killing of TSA + tumor cells but display differential patterns of cytokine release, pharmacokinetics, and biodistribution. Therefore, tuning CD3 affinity is a promising method to improve the therapeutic index of T-cell-engaging bispecific antibodies.
Body weight gain rather than body weight variability is associated with increased risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Cho Eun Ju , Yu Su Jong , Jung Gu Cheol , Kwak Min-Sun , Yang Jong In , Yim Jeong Yoon , Chung Goh Eun
Published: July 2021

Weight loss, the most established therapy for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is frequently followed by weight regain and fluctuation. The aim of this study was to investigate whether body weight change and variability were independent risk factors for incident NAFLD. We conducted a longitudinal cohort study. Among the 1907 participants, incident NAFLD occurred in 420 (22.0%) cases during median follow-up of 5.6 years. In the multivariate analysis, there was no significant association between weight variability and the risk of incident NAFLD. The risk of incident NAFLD was significantly higher in subjects with weight gain ≥ 10% and 7% < gain ≤ 10% [hazard ratios (HR), 2.43; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 1.65–3.58 and HR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.26–2.39, respectively], while the risk of incident NAFLD was significantly lower in those with −7% < weight loss ≤ -−3% (HR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.22–0.51). Overall body weight gain rather than bodyweight variability was independently associated with the risk of incident NAFLD. Understanding the association between body weight variability and incident NAFLD may have future clinical implications for the quantification of weight loss as a treatment for patients with NAFLD.
The risk reduction effect of sediment production rate by understory coverage rate in granite area mountain forest
Authors: Mizuno Toshiaki , Kojima Nagahiro , Asano Satoshi
Published: July 2021

Ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (Eco-DRR) is an important concept to the adaption of climate change for a sustainable life. In Japan, it is anticipated that damages caused by sediment production will be increased as the intensity and amount of rainfall are increased by climate change. Thus, we need to know the Eco-DRR effect of the forest for planning sustainable land use by evidence-based data. In this study, we focused on the relationship between sediment production rate and the understory coverage rate of a low mountain forest in the granite area. From the results of the field survey and statistical meta-analysis, the sediment production rate was reduced by 97% in granite area mountain forest when the understory coverage rate was 60% or more compared to when less than 30% by evidence-based data. Accordingly, we found that it will be necessary to keep forests with an understory coverage rate of 60% or more when considering the risk-reducing effect of sediment disaster in granite area mountain forests for the adaption of climate change.
Reasoning supports forgiving accidental harms
Authors: Patil Indrajeet , Trémolière Bastien
Published: July 2021

People experience a strong conflict while evaluating actors who unintentionally harmed someone—her innocent intention exonerating her, while the harmful outcome incriminating her. Different people solve this conflict differently, suggesting the presence of dispositional moderators of the way the conflict is processed. In the present research, we explore how reasoning ability and cognitive style relate to how people choose to resolve this conflict and judge accidental harms. We conducted three studies in which we utilized varied reasoning measures and populations. The results showed that individual differences in reasoning ability and cognitive style predicted severity of judgments in fictitious accidental harms scenarios, with better reasoners being less harsh in their judgments. Internal meta-analysis confirmed that this effect was robust only for accidental harms. We discuss the importance of individual differences in reasoning ability in the assessment of accidental harms.
A longitudinal analysis of COVID-19 lockdown stringency on sleep and resting heart rate measures across 20 countries
Authors: Ong Ju Lynn , Lau TeYang , Karsikas Mari , Kinnunen Hannu , Chee Michael W. L.
Published: July 2021

Lockdowns imposed to stem the spread of COVID-19 massively disrupted the daily routines of many worldwide, but studies to date have been mostly confined to observations within a limited number of countries, based on subjective reports and surveys from specific time periods during the pandemic. We investigated associations between lockdown stringency and objective sleep and resting-heart rate measures in ~ 113,000 users of a consumer sleep tracker across 20 countries from Jan to Jul 2020, compared to an equivalent period in 2019. With stricter lockdown measures, midsleep times were universally delayed, particularly on weekdays, while midsleep variability and resting heart rate declined. These shifts (midsleep: + 0.09 to + 0.58 h; midsleep variability: − 0.12 to − 0.26 h; resting heart rate: − 0.35 to − 2.08 bpm) correlated with the severity of lockdown across different countries (all Ps < 0.001) and highlight the graded influence of stringency lockdowns on human physiology.
Differential effects of SUMO1 and SUMO2 on circadian protein PER2 stability and function
Authors: Chen Ling-Chih , Hsieh Yung-Lin , Tan Grace Y. T. , Kuo Tai-Yun , Chou Yu-Chi , Hsu Pang-Hung , Hwang-Verslues Wendy W.
Published: July 2021

Posttranslational modification (PTM) of core circadian clock proteins, including Period2 (PER2), is required for proper circadian regulation. PER2 function is regulated by casein kinase 1 (CK1)-mediated phosphorylation and ubiquitination but little is known about other PER2 PTMs or their interaction with PER2 phosphorylation. We found that PER2 can be SUMOylated by both SUMO1 and SUMO2; however, SUMO1 versus SUMO2 conjugation had different effects on PER2 turnover and transcriptional suppressor function. SUMO2 conjugation facilitated PER2 interaction with β-TrCP leading to PER2 proteasomal degradation. In contrast, SUMO1 conjugation, mediated by E3 SUMO-protein ligase RanBP2, enhanced CK1-mediated PER2S662 phosphorylation, inhibited PER2 degradation and increased PER2 transcriptional suppressor function. PER2 K736 was critical for both SUMO1- and SUMO2-conjugation. A PER2K736R mutation was sufficient to alter PER2 protein oscillation and reduce PER2-mediated transcriptional suppression. Together, our data revealed that SUMO1 versus SUMO2 conjugation acts as a determinant of PER2 stability and function and thereby affects the circadian regulatory system and the expression of clock-controlled genes.
Evolution of physico-chemical properties of Dicranopteris linearis-derived activated carbon under various physical activation atmospheres
Authors: Mai Nga T. , Nguyen Minh N. , Tsubota Toshiki , Nguyen Phuong L. T. , Nguyen Nam H.
Published: July 2021

This work emphasizes the effect of the physical activation using CO2 and steam agents on the physicochemical properties of activated carbon produced from Dicranopteris linearis (D. linearis), a fern species widely distributed across tropic and subtropic ecoregions. The D. linearis-derived chars produced under pyrolysis at 400 °C for 1 h were activated in various CO2-steam proportions. As revealed by the IR and Raman spectra, the structure of the activated chars was heavily dependent on the relative proportion of CO2 and steam. The total specific surface area (SSA) of the activated chars proportionally increased with the increase in steam proportion and was comparable to the values of commercial activated char products. Specifically, the activation under CO2− and steam-saturated conditions has correspondingly resulted in SSA increasing from 89 to 653 m2g−1 and from 89 to 1015 m2g−1. Steam also enhanced the development of mesoporous structures of the D. linearis-derived char products, thereby extending their potential applications, particularly for industries that require high rigidity in the product such as pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors.
Paired maternal and fetal metabolomics reveal a differential fingerprint in preeclampsia versus fetal growth restriction
Authors: Youssef Lina , Simões Rui V. , Miranda Jezid , García-Martín María Luisa , Paules Cristina , Crovetto Francesca , Amigó Nuria , Cañellas Nicolau , Gratacos Eduard , Crispi Fatima
Published: July 2021

Preeclampsia (PE) and fetal growth restriction (FGR) are both placenta-mediated disorders with unclear pathogenesis. Metabolomics of maternal and fetal pairs might help in understanding these disorders. We recruited prospectively pregnancies with normotensive FGR, PE without FGR, PE + FGR and uncomplicated pregnancies as controls. Nuclear magnetic resonance metabolomics were applied on plasma samples collected at delivery. Advanced lipoprotein, glycoprotein and choline profiling was performed using the Liposcale test. The software package Dolphin was used to quantify 24 low-molecular-weight metabolites. Statistical analysis comprised the comparison between each group of complicated pregnancies versus controls, considering 5% false discovery rate correction. Lipid profiles were altered in accordance with the clinical presentation of these disorders. Specifically, PE mothers and FGR fetuses (with or without FGR or PE, respectively) exhibited a pro-atherogenic and pro-inflammatory profile, with higher concentrations of triglycerides, remnant cholesterol (VLDL, IDL) and Glc/GalNAc-linked and lipid-associated glycoproteins compared to controls. Low-molecular-weight metabolites were extensively disturbed in preeclamptic mothers, with or without FGR. Growth restricted fetuses in the presence of PE showed changes in low-molecular-weight metabolites similar to their mothers (increased creatine and creatinine), while normotensive FGR fetuses presented scarce differences, consistent with undernutrition (lower isoleucine). Further research is warranted to clarify maternal and fetal adaptations to PE and FGR.
State-of-the-art in LC–MS Approaches for Probing the Polar Metabolome
Authors: Lioupi Artemis , Marinaki Maria , Virgiliou Christina , Gika Helen , Wilson Ian , Theodoridis Georgios
Published: July 2021

Metabolomics continues to grow rapidly but its coverage of the metabolome is still highly dependent on the selected analytical technique. Technological maturity has not yet reached the level that is now evident in genomics. Metabolomics protocols are still in the phase of low levels of standardization, debate, application, and harmonization among researchers making interlaboratory comparisons difficult. In particular, the analysis of the complement of polar metabolites is probably the most demanding area for LC-based profiling methods. Polar hydrophilic metabolites are important in many basic biochemical pathways (e.g., central carbon metabolism), and consequently, their comprehensive, accurate, and efficient determination is of considerable importance. However, polar molecules are not easy to analyze by reversed-phase (RP) LC methods, and for this reason sample preparation by derivatization is often required. Alternative modes, such as HILIC (hydrophilic liquid interaction chromatography), ion exchange LC, etc., offer alternative approaches. Despite significant investment by the community in technologies to obtain a general solution to this demanding task none is entirely satisfactory, and research in this area remains very active. Here, we describe how liquid chromatography combined with mass spectrometry is currently being applied to probe the polar metabolome.
Ion Pair Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry for Probing the Polar Metabolome
Authors: Bao Xun , Li Jing
Published: July 2021

Ion pair liquid chromatography (IP-LC) is a variant of reversed-phase liquid chromatography, which achieves the retention and separation of charged or ionic compounds on traditional reversed-phase hydrophobic stationary phases by addition of ion pair reagents in the mobile phase. Many metabolites involved in the important anabolic and catabolic metabolic pathways are highly polar and often ionized. IP-LC coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) or high-resolution mass spectrometry (MS) is particularly useful for the analysis of these polar and charged metabolites. In this chapter, we provide an overview on the basics of IP-LC–MS in terms of retention mechanism, critical parameters, and mass spectrometry detection. In addition, we discuss IP-LC–MS based metabolomics with the focus on sample preparation, chromatographic and mass spectrometry methods, as well as potential pitfalls and key solutions. Overall, this review intends to provide a practical framework and guidance for carrying out robust IP-LC–MS based metabolomics.
NMR Approaches for Probing the Polar Metabolome
Authors: Ribeiro Paulo R. , Boffo Elisangela F.
Published: July 2021

Metabolomics approaches have a wide range of applications covering plant, micro-organism, animal and human related studies, and they provide qualitative and quantitative description of the chemical composition (metabolome) of a given organism. Herein, we discuss the main steps and challenges associated with the assessment of the polar metabolome by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy.
Crystallization-induced emission enhancement of highly electron-deficient dicyanomethylene-bridged triarylboranes
Authors: Liao Guanming , Zhang Jia , Zheng Xiaoyan , Jia Xiaodi , Xu Jialiang , Zhao Fenggui , Wang Nan , Liu Kanglei , Chen Pangkuan , Yin Xiaodong
Published: July 2021

A dicyanomethylene-bridged triarylborane with highly electron-deficient character exhibits crystallization-induced emission enhancement which can be assigned to a tight molecular stacking mode.
Selective alkane co-inclusion by methylene- and adamantane-bridged macrocycle with biphenyl units
Authors: Tominaga Masahide , Fujimaru Kousuke , Hyodo Tadashi , Yamaguchi Kentaro
Published: July 2021

A methylene- and adamantane-bridged macrocycle with biphenyl units showed selective co-inclusion of n-hexane among the hexane isomers through crystallization. In the use of n-pentane or n-heptane, inclusion crystals with alkanes were not formed.
Mechanism of iron complexes catalyzed in the N-formylation of amines with CO2 and H2: the superior performance of N–H ligand methylated complexes
Authors: Shen Xinyu , Wang Wenjuan , Wang Qiong , Liu Jianbiao , Huang Fang , Sun Chuanzhi , Yang Chong , Chen Dezhan
Published: July 2021

Mechanisms of the formation of formamide using PNP bifunctional catalyst and PNP monofunctional catalyst were addressed using a DFT study.
Black phosphorene/blue phosphorene van der Waals heterostructure: a potential anode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Muhammad Nisar , Muzaffar M. U. , Ding Z. J.
Published: July 2021

We propose that the black phosphorene/blue phosphorene vdW heterostructure is a promising anode material for simultaneously enhancing the Li storage capacity and electrochemical stability, as both aspects are highly desirable for the performance of future LIBs.
Expanding the repertoire of methanocarba nucleosides from purinergic signaling to diverse targets
Authors: Jacobson Kenneth A. , Salmaso Veronica , Suresh R. Rama , Tosh Dilip K.
Published: July 2021

Rigid methanocarba nucleotides and nucleoside bound to their protein targets (clockwise from upper left: PDB IDs 4XNW, 1E2L, 4GC7, 4EBD).
CoOx/UiO-66 and NiO/UiO-66 heterostructures with UiO-66 frameworks for enhanced oxygen evolution reactions
Authors: Charles Victor , Yang Yong , Yuan Menglei , Zhang Jitao , Li Yaling , Zhang Jingxian , Zhao Tongkun , Liu Zhanjun , Li Bin , Zhang Guangjin
Published: July 2021

In this study, CoOx/UiO-66-300 and NiO/UiO-66-300 heterostructures achieved low OER overpotentials for an enhanced oxygen evolution reaction.
A C2N/ZnSe heterostructure with type-II band alignment and excellent photocatalytic water splitting performance
Authors: Rao Yifan , Zhang Fusheng , Zhu Bao , Li Hui , Zheng Kai , Zou Yongxian , Feng Xiaoxia , Guo Haojie , Qiu Jian , Chen Xianping , Yu Jiabing
Published: July 2021

A type-II C2N/ZnSe heterostructure with strong light-absorption ability, high carrier mobility and low exciton binding energy, exhibits excellent photocatalytic water splitting performance
Magnetic poly-o-vanillin-functionalized core–shell nanomaterials as a smart sorbent for scavenging mercury(ii) from aqueous solution
Authors: Qian Lin , Zeng Zheng , Zhang Shuyuan , Xia Kai , Guo Yongfu
Published: July 2021

In the present work, a poly-o-vanillin-functionalized magnetic nanoparticle of PoVan/CoFe2O4@mSiO2 with core–shell structure was synthesized through a facile, green and low cost method.
The core composition of DNA block copolymer micelles dictates DNA hybridization properties, nuclease stabilities, and cellular uptake efficiencies
Authors: Kim Chan-Jin , Kim Ga-Hyun , Jeong Eun Hye , Lee Hyukjin , Park So-Jung
Published: July 2021

The core polymer of DNA block copolymer assemblies significantly affects the molecular and biological interactions of the DNA corona.
In situ hydrogen nanogenerator for bimodal imaging guided synergistic photothermal/hydrogen therapies
Authors: Yuan Guanglong , Cen Jieqiong , Liao Jiamin , Huang Yuqin , Jie Liu
Published: July 2021

Multifunctional nanoagents integrating multiple therapeutic and imaging functions hold promise in the field of non-invasive and precise tumor therapies.
An insight, at the atomic level, into the polarization effect in controlling the morphology of metal nanoclusters
Authors: Kang Xi , Wei Xiao , Wang Shuxin , Zhu Manzhou
Published: July 2021

Based on the inter-conversion between Pt1Ag24(SR)18 and Pt1Ag28(SR)18(PPh3)4, an insight into the polarization effect in controlling the morphology of metal nanoparticles is presented.
Research progress on two-dimensional (2D) halide organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites
Authors: Liu Peirong , Yu Shouwu , Xiao Shujuan
Published: July 2021

Illustration of the structures of 2D perovskites and their applications in optoelectronics.
Playing With BEARS: Balancing Effort, Accuracy, and Response Speed in a Semantic Feature Verification Anomia Treatment Game
Authors: Evans William S. , Cavanaugh Robert , Quique Yina , Boss Emily , Starns Jeffrey J. , Hula William D.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to develop and pilot a novel treatment framework calledBEARS(Balancing Effort, Accuracy, and Response Speed). People with aphasia (PWA) have been shown to maladaptively balance speed and accuracy during language tasks. BEARS is designed to train PWA to balance speed–accuracy trade-offs and improve system calibration (i.e., to adaptively match system use with its current capability), which was hypothesized to improve treatment outcomes by maximizing retrieval practice and minimizing error learning. In this study, BEARS was applied in the context of a semantically oriented anomia treatment based on semantic feature verification (SFV).

Method

Nine PWA received 25 hr of treatment in a multiple-baseline single-case series design. BEARS + SFV combined computer-based SFV with clinician-provided BEARS metacognitive training. Naming probe accuracy, efficiency, and proportion of “pass” responses on inaccurate trials were analyzed using Bayesian generalized linear mixed-effects models. Generalization to discourse and correlations between practice efficiency and treatment outcomes were also assessed.

Results

Participants improved on naming probe accuracy and efficiency of treated and untreated items, although untreated item gains could not be distinguished from the effects of repeated exposure. There were no improvements on discourse performance, but participants demonstrated improved system calibration based on their performance on inaccurate treatment trials, with an increasing proportion of “pass” responses compared to paraphasia or timeout nonresponses. In addition, levels of practice efficiency during treatment were positively correlated with treatment outcomes, suggesting that improved practice efficiency promoted greater treatment generalization and improved naming efficiency.

Conclusions

BEARS is a promising, theoretically motivated treatment framework for addressing the interplay between effort, accuracy, and processing speed in aphasia. This study establishes the feasibility of BEARS + SFV and provides preliminary evidence for its efficacy. This study highlights the importance of considering processing efficiency in anomia treatment, in addition to performance accuracy.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.14935812
Structure of Cognitive Functions in Monolingual Preschool Children With Typical Development and Children With Developmental Language Disorder
Authors: Plym Jade , Lahti-Nuuttila Pekka , Smolander Sini , Arkkila Eva , Laasonen Marja
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Developmental language disorder (DLD) is defined by persistent difficulties with language, but a growing body of evidence suggests that it is also associated with domain-general and nonverbal information-processing deficits. However, the interconnections between cognitive functions, both nonverbal and language related, are still unclear. With the aim of gaining more comprehensive insight into the cognitive deficits related to DLD, we investigated and compared the cognitive structure of children with DLD and typically developing (TD) children.

Method

As a part of the Helsinki longitudinal SLI study, monolingual Finnish preschoolers (
N
= 154; TD group:
n
= 66, DLD group:
n
= 88) were assessed with 23 tasks measuring nonverbal and verbal reasoning, language processing, memory, visuomotor functions, attention, and social cognition. Exploratory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were performed to examine latent constructs and to test measurement invariance between the TD and DLD groups.

Results

Measurement invariance was not found across the TD and DLD groups. Best fitting structure for TD children included factors reflecting verbal abilities, processing speed/short-term memory, visuomotor functions, and visuoconstructive abilities/nonverbal reasoning. The DLD group's structure comprised nonverbal abilities, naming/expressive language, verbal comprehension, and verbal/declarative memory.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that the structure of cognitive functions differs in TD children and children with DLD already at preschool age. Nonverbal functions seem more unified, whereas verbal functions seem more varying in preschoolers with DLD compared to TD children. The results can be used in future research for prognosis of DLD and planning interventions.
Covert channels in stochastic cyber‐physical systems
Authors: Lucia Walter , Youssef Amr
Published: July 2021

A covert channel is a communication channel that is not intended to exist, and that can be used to transfer information in a manner that violates the system security policy. Attackers can abuse such channels to exfiltrate sensitive information from cyber‐physical systems (CPSs), for example to leak the confidential or proprietary parameters in a control system. Furthermore, attacks against CPSs can exploit the leaked information about the implementation of the control system, for example to determine optimal false data injection attack values that degrade the system performance while remaining undetected. In this study, a control theoretic approach for establishing covert channels in stochastic CPSs is presented. In particular, a scenario is considered where an attacker is able to inject malware into the networked controller and arbitrarily alter the control logic. By exploiting such capability, an attacker can establish an illegitimate communication channel, for example to transmit sensitive plant parameters, between the networked controller and an eavesdropper intercepting the sensor measurements. The authors show that such a channel can be established by exploiting the closed‐loop system operations, a decoding mechanism based on an unknown input observer, and an error‐correcting coding scheme that exploits the control loop to obtain an implicit acknowledgement. A simple proof of concept implementation of the covert channel is presented, and its performance is evaluated by resorting to a numerical example. Finally, some defences and countermeasures are proposed against the proposed covert channel.
Generation of prognostic interval estimates of water inflows to hydroelectric reservoirs using multiparametric neural network
Authors: Berdnikov Vladislav
Published: July 2021

The article discusses the practical application of the neural network for hydropower and water management systems. Various models of neural networks are understood, their advantages and disadvantages for a particular subject area. Method and operation of multiparametric neural network are described using practical examples, in particular, formation of interval estimates in reservoir of hydroelectric power station.
Application of a multiagent approach for optimal load distribution between sources in an integrated energy system taking into account the operation of active consumers
Authors: Stennikov Valery , Barakhtenko Evgeny , Mayorov Gleb
Published: July 2021

In the context of the energy transition, research on the creation of integrated energy systems and their control is an actual task. They combine a significant share of renewable energy sources, contribute to the overall efficiency of the system, and enable active consumers to participate in the energy supply process. At the same time, in connection with the growing capacity of distributed energy sources, new problems arise related to the operation of distribution networks and difficulties in adapting the operation of active consumers in the centralized energy system. Active consumers can regulate their energy consumption by distributing the load between centralized and distributed energy sources, and as a result, they can provide flexibility, maneuverability in the operation of the system and increase the efficiency of its redundancy. To organize the work of active consumers in an integrated energy system, a multiagent approach is used. This approach is widely used by researchers to solve various practical tasks. Allows us to represent active consumers in the form of agents with an individual behavior algorithm and organize their interaction with the energy system to ensure optimal energy supply. The proposed mathematical model for finding the optimal composition of generating capacity takes into account the structural organization of centralized and distributed energy sources, as well as the participation of active consumers in the process of energy supply. Modeling of an integrated energy system and carrying out a computational experiment based on multiagent technologies are performed in the AnyLogic software environment.
Improving performance of direct expansion air conditioning systems while reducing electricity consumption through using hybrid energy
Authors: Al–Okbi Ahmed , Vankov Yuri , Kadhim Hakim
Published: July 2021

At the present time, operating hybrid air-conditioning systems that use solar energy to saving electrical energy while improving the performance has become necessary to protect the environment, reduce pollution and emissions caused by using fuels and gases. In Iraq, temperatures reach half the boiling point at summer, therefore the demand for air conditioning systems increases, air conditioning systems consume more than half of average electricity production which affects on reliability and stability of the electrical energy thus leads to a continuous power outage. So, the issue of using renewable energies becomes more attractive. Because of saving energy leads to ensuring the reliability of electricity and reduces the consumption of fuels and gases that pollute on the environment and negatively affect on the ozone layer. In the current research, the atmosphere of Baghdad city was used to collect solar thermal energy and convert it into thermal energy through an evacuated solar collector by water and combine it with a conventional air conditioner in the part that follows the compressor in order to reduce the electrical energy consumption on the compressor and increase coefficient of performance. Several tests were conducted on the proposed system to compare results with the conventional system and evaluate performance. The results showed that the coefficient of performance with the hybrid system became 8.97 more efficient instead of 4.27 compared to the conventional system, and the energy consumption decreased by 52%.
System integration of processes of ensuring electric power networks safety under the conditions of impact of meteorological factors
Authors: Burlov Vyacheslav , Polyukhovich Maxim
Published: July 2021

The problem of the influence of meteorological factors on electric power networks continues to be relevant. For the safe fulfillment of their purpose, electric power networks as an element of the electric power system must guarantee the safety, stability and efficiency of the electric power supply process. To solve the above problems, it is necessary to make decisions based on meteorological observations, since the safety of electric power networks depends on the timely forecasting of meteorological factors. The study examines the possibility of system integration of the process of ensuring the safety of electric power networks and the process of monitoring meteorological factors. In order to increase the level of safety of electric power networks, it is proposed to use a geo information system that collects, processes and transfers meteorological data.