bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual genetic variability mainly of Proinflammatory cytokines, cytokine receptors, and toll‐like receptors dictates pathophysiology of COVID‐19 disease
Authors: Vakil Mohammad Kazem , Mansoori Yaser , Al‐Awsi Ghaidaa Raheem Lateef , Hosseinipour Ali , Ahsant Samaneh , Ahmadi Sedigheh , Ekrahi Mohammad , Montaseri Zahra , Pezeshki Babak , Mohaghegh Poopak , Sohrabpour Mojtaba , Bahmanyar Maryam , Daraei Abdolreza , Dadkhah Jouybari Tahereh , Tavassoli Alireza , Ghasemian Abdolmajid
Published: May 2022

Innate and acquired immunity responses are crucial for viral infection elimination. However, genetic variations in coding genes may exacerbate the inflammation or initiate devastating cytokine storms which poses severe respiratory conditions in coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19). Host genetic variations in particular those related to the immune responses determine the patients' susceptibility and COVID‐19 severity and pathophysiology. Gene polymorphisms such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of interferons,TNF,IL1, IL4, IL6, IL7, IL10, andIL17predispose patients to the severe form of COVID‐19 or severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐COV‐2). These variations mainly alter the gene expression and cause a severe response by B cells, T cells, monocytes, neutrophils, and natural killer cells participating in a cytokine storm. Moreover, cytokines and chemokines SNPs are associated with the severity of COVID‐19 and clinical outcomes depending on the corresponding effect. Additionally, genetic variations in genes encoding toll‐like receptors (TLRs) mainlyTLR3,TLR7, andTLR9have been related to the COVID‐19 severe respiratory symptoms. The specific relation of these mutations with the novel variants of concern (VOCs) infection remains to be elucidated. Genetic variations mainly within genes encoding proinflammatory cytokines, cytokine receptors, and TLRs predispose patients to COVID‐19 disease severity. Understanding host immune gene variations associated with the SARS‐COV‐2 infection opens insights to control the pathophysiology of emerging viral infections.
Hyaluronan in articular cartilage: Analysis of hip osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis of femoral head
Authors: Zhang Jiarui , Nishida Yoshihiro , Koike Hiroshi , Ito Kan , Zhuo Lisheng , Nishida Kazuki , Kimata Koji , Ikuta Kunihiro , Sakai Tomohisa , Urakawa Hiroshi , Seki Taisuke , Imagama Shiro
Published: May 2022

Hyaluronan (HA) plays crucial roles in the maintenance of high‐quality cartilage extracellular matrix. Several studies have reported the HA in synovial fluid in patients with osteoarthritis (OA), but few have described the changes of HA in articular cartilage of OA or idiopathic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). KIAA1199 was recently reported to have strong hyaluronidase activity. The aim of this study was to clarify the HA metabolism in OA and ONFH, particularly the involvement of KIAA1199. Immunohistochemical analysis of KIAA1199 and HA deposition was performed for human OA (n = 10), ONFH (n = 10), and control cartilage (n = 7). The concentration and molecular weight (MW) of HA were determined by competitive HA ELISA and Chromatography, respectively. Regarding HA metabolism‐related molecules, HAS1, HAS2, HAS3, HYAL1, HYAL2, and KIAA1199 gene expression was assessed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Histological analysis showed the overexpression of KIAA1199 in OA cartilage, which was accompanied by decreased hyaluronic acid binding protein (HABP) staining compared with ONFH and control. Little KIAA1199 expression was observed in cartilage at the collapsed area of ONFH, which was accompanied by a slight decrease in HABP staining. The messenger RNA (​​​​​mRNA) expression of HAS2 and KIAA1199 was upregulated in OA cartilage, while the mRNA expression of genes related to HA catabolism in ONFH cartilage showed mostly a downward trend. The MW of HA in OA cartilage increased while that in ONFH cartilage decreased. HA metabolism in ONFH is suggested to be generally indolent, and is activated in OA including high expression of KIAA1199. Interestingly, MW of HA in OA cartilage was not reduced.
Identification of metabolites of Ginkgolide B in vivo and in vitro using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Xiaowei , Diao Xinpeng , Li Luya , Zhang Yuqian , Liao Man , Zhang Guohua , Zhang Lantong
Published: May 2022

Ginkgolide B is a dietary diterpene with multiple pharmacological activities. However, current research on ginkgolide B is not comprehensive. The current study analyzed the metabolic profile of ginkgolide B in vivo and in vitro using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. To detect and identify the different metabolites in ginkgolide B, a novel data processing method was used as an assistant tool. A total of 53 different metabolites of ginkgolide B (38 phase I metabolites and 15 phase II metabolites) were detected relative to blank samples. The biotransformation route of ginkgolide B was identified as oxidation, dehydroxylation, hydrogenation, decarbonylation, demethylation, sulfate conjugation, glucose conjugation, methylation, and acetylation. The current study demonstrated a method for rapidly detecting and identifying metabolites and provided useful information to further characterize the pharmacology and mechanism of ginkgolide B. A method for the analysis of other diterpene metabolic components in vivo and in vitro was also established.
Separation of ofloxacin enantiomers by capillary electrophoresis with fluorescence detection using deoxyribonucleic acid oligonucleotides as chiral selectors
Authors: Chao Hufei , Qiu Lin , Zhou Xinpei , Cui Pengfei , Wang Cheng , Hu Huaanzi , Jiang Pengju , Shi Honglei , Xuan Yang , Wang Jianhao
Published: May 2022

This study used capillary electrophoresis with fluorescence detection‐ and a partial‐filling mode‐based method for chiral separation of ofloxacin. The deoxyribonucleic acid oligonucleotides with different base sequences were studied as potential chiral selectors including deoxyribonucleic acid tetrahedron, G‐quadruplex, and G‐riched double‐strand deoxyribonucleic acid. Under the optimized conditions, all the deoxyribonucleic acid chiral selectors exhibited excellent chiral separation capabilities with a resolution higher than 1.5. The electrophoretic behavior of the ofloxacin enantiomer might result from the intermediate conjugate with different stabilities between chiral selectors and analytes by a combination of the hydrogen bond and spatial recognition structure. Moreover, satisfactory repeatability regarding run‐to‐run and interday repeatability was obtained, and all the relative standard deviation values of migration times and resolutions were below 4% (n = 6). Conclusively, both spatial structure and arrangement of the G bases potentiated the chiral separation capability of deoxyribonucleic acid for ofloxacin enantiomer. This work offered a stepping stone for enantioseparation using deoxyribonucleic acid as chiral selectors.
Skin manifestations associated with checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Nazzaro Gianluca , Buffon Stefano , Giacalone Serena , Maronese Carlo Alberto , Marzano Angelo Valerio
Published: May 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a relatively novel class of drugs whose administration has been approved for several malignancies. Adverse events are quite common, and the skin is the most frequently involved organ. In fact, regardless of the neoplasm being treated, more than 50% of patients receiving ICIs develop cutaneous immune‐related adverse events (irAEs), with variable time to onset and severity. Potential pathogenetic mechanisms include drug‐induced formation of neoantigens, unmasking of hidden self‐antigens, and diffuse keratinocyte apoptosis induced by CD4+ and CD8+ T cell activation. Risk of cutaneous irAEs seems to be higher after anti‐CTLA‐4 rather than anti‐PD‐1/PD‐L1 agent administration and rises in case of combination therapy. Furthermore, incidence of skin toxicity increases in the presence of specific malignancies (i.e., advanced melanoma) and pre‐existing dermatoses or autoimmune diseases, while the possible role of ethnicity is still unclear. Aim of this review is to summarise the current knowledge of cutaneous irAEs and provide the clinician with a detailed clinical and histopathological description of the following types of skin toxicity: inflammatory dermatoses, immunobullous diseases, alterations of melanocytes, alterations of keratinocytes, hair abnormalities, oral and nail involvement. Particular attention is given to practical management of the different cutaneous irAEs, including detailed information about treatment regimens and necessity for ICI discontinuation. Patients should always receive multidisciplinary care, especially in severe or recalcitrant cases. The role of the dermatologists remains pivotal, particularly with regard to differential diagnosis and management of complex skin toxicity, as well as regular long‐term follow‐up of the patient's conditions.
Tumor Satellites Are Associated With Poor Outcome in Patients With Oral Cancer
Authors: Yosefof Eyal , Tzelnick Sharon , Wallach Leemor , Miller Yuval , Strenov Yulia , Bachar Gideon , Shpitzer Thomas , Mizrachi Aviram
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Tumor satellites are defined as islands of tumor cells completely separated from the border of the main tumor. They are believed to be a sign of aggressive disease. Our goal was to investigate the association between tumor satellites and outcome in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis of all patients treated for oral squamous cell carcinoma at a university‐affiliated tertiary care center between 2010 and 2018 was performed. Data collected included demographics, clinical and pathological features including tumor satellites, staging, treatment modalities, and outcomes.

Results

A total of 144 patients were included. The mean age of all patients was 63.5 and 50.7% were males. The mean follow‐up time was 40.5 months. Seventeen patients (11.8%) had tumor satellites. These patients had a higher rate of involved margins, peri‐neural invasion, lympho‐vascular invasion, and extra‐nodal extension. Tumor, nodal and overall classification were significantly more advanced in patients with satellites. Disease‐specific and overall survival rates were significantly lower among satellites patients (28.7% vs. 59.7% and 28.7% vs. 54.9%, respectively).

Conclusions

Tumor satellites are associated with several adverse features and advanced locoregional disease. Patients with satellites should be treated aggressively with a combination of surgery aimed at achieving free surgical margins and adjuvant treatment, as they have a worse prognosis compared with patients without satellites. Further prospective studies are mandatory to consolidate the importance of adjuvant treatment in these patients.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 133:336–343, 2023
Epithelial response to vocal fold microflap injury in a preclinical model
Authors: Sayce Lea , Zimmerman Zachary , Gartling Gary , Rousseau Bernard , Branski Ryan C.
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Functional outcomes following microflap surgery for vocal fold pathology are favorable. Although the stratified squamous epithelium appears to heal rapidly, persistent physiologic tissue alterations are likely. We sought to elucidate key biochemical processes including recruitment of immune cells, regulation of cellular junction proteins, and long‐term alterations to epithelial tissue permeability following microflap with an eye toward enhanced clinical outcomes.

Methods

Forty New Zealand rabbits were assigned to eight groups (n = 5/group): no‐injury control or bilateral microflap with survival for 0 h, 12 h, 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, 30 days, and 60 days post‐microflap. The epithelium was dissected from one vocal fold and transepithelial resistance was quantified. The contralateral fold was subjected to transmission electron microscopy. Images were evaluated by a blinded rater and paracellular space dilation was quantified using ImageJ. Immune cell infiltration was evaluated and recorded qualitatively.

Results

Increased innate immune response was observed 12 h as well as 7 and 30 days after microflap. At 60 days following injury, decreased epithelial resistance was observed. Paracellular spaces were dilated at all time‐points following injury.

Conclusions

The vocal fold epithelium was significantly altered at 60 days following microflap. The implications for this tissue phenotype are unclear. However, compromised epithelial barrier function is implicated in various diseases and may increase the risk of subsequent injury.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 133:350–356, 2023
Potential role of submerged macrophytes for oxic methane production in aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Hilt Sabine , Grossart Hans‐Peter , McGinnis Daniel F. , Keppler Frank
Published: May 2022

Methane (CH4) from aquatic ecosystems contributes to about half of total global CH4emissions to the atmosphere. Until recently, aquatic biogenic CH4production was exclusively attributed to methanogenic archaea living under anoxic or suboxic conditions in sediments, bottom waters, and wetlands. However, evidence for oxic CH4production (OMP) in freshwater, brackish, and marine habitats is increasing. Possible sources were found to be driven by various planktonic organisms supporting different OMP mechanisms. Surprisingly, submerged macrophytes have been fully ignored in studies on OMP, yet they are key components of littoral zones of ponds, lakes, and coastal systems. High CH4concentrations in these zones have been attributed to organic substrate production promoting classic methanogenesis in the absence of oxygen. Here, we review existing studies and argue that, similar to terrestrial plants and phytoplankton, macroalgae and submerged macrophytes may directly or indirectly contribute to CH4formation in oxic waters. We propose several potential direct and indirect mechanisms: (1) direct production of CH4; (2) production of CH4precursors and facilitation of their bacterial breakdown or chemical conversion; (3) facilitation of classic methanogenesis; and (4) facilitation of CH4ebullition. As submerged macrophytes occur in many freshwater and marine habitats, they are important in global carbon budgets and can strongly vary in their abundance due to seasonal and boom‐bust dynamics. Knowledge on their contribution to OMP is therefore essential to gain a better understanding of spatial and temporal dynamics of CH4emissions and thus to substantially reduce current uncertainties when estimating global CH4emissions from aquatic ecosystems.
Quantitative Method Development to Determine Feed Consumption Using a Dye
Authors: Wamboldt James J. , Nelson Justine E. , Thomas Linnea M. , Steiner John N. , Hebert Jillian L. , Erickson Richard A. , Putnam Joel G.
Published: May 2022

Although there are many methods to determine ingestion and absorption of aquafeeds, none exist that are simple, cost-effective, and quantitative and that can mark fish with a long-lasting, visible indicator. In addition to aquafeed development, selective baits are needed that can be used for aquatic invasive species removal efforts, including for Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella. Bait incorporated with a pesticide would allow for selective removal of targeted species. A method to quickly assess multiple bait formulations was developed to expediate development for invasive species management. Incorporation of Sudan Black B (SBB) in aquafeeds at concentrations greater than 75 and 120 mg SBB/kg fish resulted in pigmented external soft tissues of Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides and Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss, respectively, 24 h after consumption. Visual confirmation of consumption was detectable in the gastrointestinal tract at all concentrations tested (≥10 mg SBB/kg) and quantifiable by absorbance measured at 601 nm from extracted SBB in tissues at concentrations less than those required for visual pigmentation. Although SBB was detectable in multiple tissues, fin and mandible tissues yielded the greatest accuracy in estimating consumption from extracted SBB. Compared with other tissues tested, liver tissue accumulated the highest level of SBB but had the greatest variability, while muscle tissue accumulated little detectable SBB. We used the SBB analytical method to compare consumption of six novel baits that were in the initial developmental stages to produce a palatable bait formulation designed to attract Grass Carp for management control. Overwhelming preference of a rapeseed bait formulation was confirmed using SBB as a tracer of consumption in the laboratory; however, use of SBB under natural conditions may be valuable for answering additional questions. Baits incorporated with SBB allowed for the rapid, simultaneous assessment of multiple formulations and could allow for future refinement of management baits, with results available as quickly as 24–72 h after application.
Higher protein intake during caloric restriction improves diet quality and attenuates loss of lean body mass
Authors: Ogilvie Anna R. , Schlussel Yvette , Sukumar Deeptha , Meng Lingqiong , Shapses Sue A.
Published: May 2022

Objective

Higher protein intake during weight loss is associated with better health outcomes, but whether this is because of improved diet quality is not known. The purpose of this study was to examine how the change in self‐selected protein intake during caloric restriction (CR) alters diet quality and lean body mass (LBM).

Methods

In this analysis of pooled data from multiple weight loss trials, 207 adults with overweight or obesity were examined before and during 6 months of CR (approximately 10 food records/person). Body composition was measured by dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry. Diet quality was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index in 2 groups: lower (LP) and higher (HP) protein intake.

Results

Participants (mean [SD], 54 [11] years; 29 [4] kg/m2) lost 5.0% (5.4%) of weight. Protein intake was 79 (9) g/d (1.0 [0.2] g/kg/d) and 58 (6) g/d (0.8 [0.1] g/kg/d) in the HP and LP groups, respectively (p < 0.05), and there was an attenuated LBM (kilograms) loss in the HP (−0.6% [1.5%]) compared with the LP (−1.2% [1.4%]) group (p < 0.01). The increased Healthy Eating Index score in the HP compared with the LP group was attributed to greater total protein and green vegetable intake and reduced refined grain and added‐sugar intake (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Increasing dietary protein during CR improves diet quality and may be another reason for reduced LBM, but it requires further study.
A Ratiometric Fluorescence Probe for Selective Detection of ex vivo Methylglyoxal in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Xie Qunfang , Zhan Yuanjin , Guo Longhua , Hao Huili , Shi Xianai , Yang Jianmin , Luo Fang , Qiu Bin , Lin Zhenyu
Published: May 2022

Accurate monitoring of methylglyoxal (MGO) at cell and living level was crucial to reveal its role in the pathogenesis of diabetes since MGO was closely related to diabetes. Herein, a ratiometric fluorescence strategy was constructed based on the capture probe 2,3‐diaminonaphthalene (DAN) for the specific detection of MGO. Compared to the fluorescent probes with a single emission wavelength, the ratiometric mode by monitoring two emissions can effectively avoid the interference from the biological background, and provided additional self‐calibration ability, which can realize accurate detection of MGO. The proposed method showed a good linear relationship in the range of 0–75 μm for MGO detection, and the limit of detection was 0.33 μm. DAN responded to MGO with good specificity and was successfully applied for detecting the ex vivo MGO level in plasma of KK−Ay mice as a type II diabetes model. Besides, the prepared DAN test strip can be visualized for rapid semi‐quantitative analysis of MGO using the naked eye. Furthermore, human skin fibroblasts and HeLa cells were utilized for exogenous MGO imaging, and ex vivo MGO imaging was performed on tissues of KK−Ay mice. All results indicated that the DAN‐based ratiometric fluorescence probe can be used as a potential method to detect the level of MGO, thus enabling indications for the occurrence of diabetes and its complications.
Extraction processes for deriving cellulose: A comprehensive review on green approaches
Authors: Khan Ruheen , Jolly Reshma , Fatima Tooba , Shakir Mohammad
Published: May 2022

Cellulose is a renewable, biodegradable and thermally stable compound with several other strong and attractive properties. Cellulose being most abundant raw material on earth has been also produced commercially through several plants every year because of its substantial involvement in variety of potential applications. Cellulose and its derivatives can be employed in paper, textile industry, and food industry along with its utilization in pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. Such applications entail the extraction process in order to obtain an appropriate form of cellulose as required for its utilization in respective applications. Herein, we present a review that focus on the multiple methodology for cellulose extraction from various sources of plants and agricultural waste.
Study of mechanical and thermal behavior of alkali modified groundnut shell powder reinforced ABS composites
Authors: Kumar Piyush , Singh Jitendra , Kumari Neetu , Jurail Shailendra Singh , Verma Donal , Maurya Atul Kumar
Published: May 2022

Current study employs reinforcement of untreated (GSP) and alkali treated groundnut shell powder (T‐GSP) to the thermoplastic acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene (ABS) matrix for the fabrication of composites. Interactions of alkali to the cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin of T‐GSP was confirmed from the ATR‐IR analysis. The most significant tensile strength (54.78 MPa) and modulus (2.78 GPa) was reported for 20 wt% T‐GSP reinforced ABS composite. Additionally, greatest flexural strength and modulus of 88.30 MPa and 7.80 GPa was recorded for the composite constitutes 20 wt% T‐GSP and 80 wt% ABS. The highest and lowest notched impact strength of 15.85 kJ/m2 and 13.52 kJ/m2 were reported for the composites consist of 10 and 20 wt% of T‐GSP. Composite 20/80 T‐GSP/ABS exhibited highest shore D hardness value of 90. Morphology was studied using FE‐SEM characterization and reports excellent wetting of T‐GSP particles from ABS. Composites reinforced with 10 wt% of T‐GSP exhibited highest (~269°C) while one reinforced with 20 wt% of the T‐GSP showed lowest thermal degradation point (~259°C) throughout the temperature range. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) analysis shows an increment (1–6°C) in the glass transition temperature of all the composites compared to pristine ABS irrespective of treatment.
Analysis of miRNAs responsive to long‐term calcium deficiency in tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter)
Authors: Numan Muhammad , Guo Wanli , Choi Sang‐Chul , Wang Xuegeng , Du Boxuan , Jin Weibo , Bhandari Ramji Kumar , Ligaba‐Osena Ayalew
Published: May 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in growth, development, stress resilience, and epigenetic modifications of plants. However, the effect of calcium (Ca2+) deficiency on miRNA expression in the orphan crop tef (Eragrostis tef) remains unknown. In this study, we analyzed expression of miRNAs in roots and shoots of tef in response to Ca2+ treatment. miRNA‐seq followed by bioinformatic analysis allowed us to identify a large number of small RNAs (sRNAs) ranging from 17 to 35 nt in length. A total of 1380 miRNAs were identified in tef experiencing long‐term Ca2+ deficiency while 1495 miRNAs were detected in control plants. Among the miRNAs identified in this study, 161 miRNAs were similar with those previously characterized in other plant species and 348 miRNAs were novel, while the remaining miRNAs were uncharacterized. Putative target genes and their functions were predicted for all the known and novel miRNAs that we identified. Based on gene ontology (GO) analysis, the predicted target genes are known to have various biological and molecular functions including calcium uptake and transport. Pairwise comparison of differentially expressed miRNAs revealed that some miRNAs were specifically enriched in roots or shoots of low Ca2+‐treated plants. Further characterization of the miRNAs and their targets identified in this study may help in understanding Ca2+ deficiency responses in tef and related orphan crops.
OsJAZ11 regulates spikelet and seed development in rice
Authors: Mehra Poonam , Pandey Bipin K. , Verma Lokesh , Prusty Ankita , Singh Ajit Pal , Sharma Shivam , Malik Naveen , Bennett Malcolm J. , Parida Swarup K. , Giri Jitender , Tyagi Akhilesh K.
Published: May 2022

Seed size is one of the major determinants of seed weight and eventually, crop yield. As the global population is increasing beyond the capacity of current food production, enhancing seed size is a key target for crop breeders. Despite the identification of several genes and QTLs, current understanding about the molecular regulation of seed size/weight remains fragmentary. In the present study, we report novel role of a jasmonic acid (JA) signaling repressor, OsJAZ11 controlling rice seed width and weight. Transgenic rice lines overexpressing OsJAZ11 exhibited up to a 14% increase in seed width and ~30% increase in seed weight compared to wild type (WT). Constitutive expression of OsJAZ11 dramatically influenced spikelet morphogenesis leading to extra glume‐like structures, open hull, and abnormal numbers of floral organs. Furthermore, overexpression lines accumulated higher JA levels in spikelets and developing seeds. Expression studies uncovered altered expression of JA biosynthesis/signaling and MADS box genes in overexpression lines compared to WT. Yeast two‐hybrid and pull‐down assays revealed that OsJAZ11 interacts with OsMADS29 and OsMADS68. Remarkably, expression of OsGW7, a key negative regulator of grain size, was significantly reduced in overexpression lines. We propose that OsJAZ11 participates in the regulation of seed size and spikelet development by coordinating the expression of JA‐related, OsGW7 and MADS genes.
Synthesis of linear unsubstituted poly(4,4′‐triphenylamine) via Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling of an asymmetric AB monomer
Authors: Kao Tzu‐Han , Qiao Zhi , Ho Po Yuen , Ditzer Oliver , Sun Ningwei , Voit Brigitte , Lissel Franziska
Published: May 2022

Polytriarylamines (PTAAs) are amorphous polymers that can be reversibly oxidized to generate stable radical cations. Despite exhibiting a low charge carrier mobility, PTAAs are widely used as hole‐transporting layers in perovskite solar cells due to their excellent stability under ambient conditions. The highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy levels of PTAA are generally in the range of −5.1 to −5.2 eV, and therefore slightly too high for an optimal alignment with perovskites. Most linear PTAAs carry two or three methyl substituents per repeating unit. While these prevent crosslinking of chains and thus provide reaction control, the electron‐donating substituents raise the energy level of the HOMO. Unsubstituted PTAA on the other hand is usually obtained crosslinked via oxidative polymerization, while nickel‐catalyzed Grignard polycondensation leads to inclusion of impurities. We report the synthesis of linear unsubstituted PTAA using Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling of a novel asymmetric monomer, 4‐((4‐bromophenyl)(phenyl)amino)phenyl)boronic acid M1. Based on matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐time of flight (MALDI‐TOF) and 1H NMR analysis, we can conclude that the hydrogen‐terminated linear polymer is obtained. The determined HOMO energy level of −5.47 eV is a favorable match for many perovskite systems.
Tracking the role of self‐employment on perceptions of citizenship: Evidence from urban migrant workers in China
Authors: Hu Haoyu , Wang Wei , Ye Fangjin
Published: May 2022

Self‐employment is an essential driver of economic growth and societal well‐being. While previous studies have examined various consequences of self‐employed activities, little attention has been paid to how self‐employment affects citizenship perceptions among urban migrant workers. This paper seeks to fill this gap by distinguishing between own‐account workers and employers with hired employees. Using data from the 2017 China Migrant Dynamic Survey, we find that migrants who are employers or work on their own account are more likely to perceive themselves as citizens of their city of residence than wage earners. The size of the effect is much larger for employers than for own‐account workers. We also find that self‐employment can be linked to migrants' perceptions of citizenship via three pathways—individual income, type of housing (owned or rented accommodation) and social security. Our results are robust to employing the conditional mixed process estimator and nonparametric matching method to address endogeneity concerns. Our findings highlight the importance of the role that migrant entrepreneurship plays in reforming the current urban household registration system in China. The paper also has implications for other countries worldwide to cope with the group of marginalized immigrants by emphasizing the form of entrepreneurship.
A rare presentation of necrotizing sarcoidosis
Authors: Sheth Nirali , Dhamrah Umaima , Ireifej Branden , Song David , Bhuti Penpa , Singh Jagbir , Fan Henry , Ummar Sibghatallah , Jaiswal Vikash , Pokhrel Nishan Babu
Published: May 2022

Sarcoidosis is a disease with unknown aetiology and pathogenesis which affects young adults and is usually a non‐necrotizing granulomatous disease seen in histology. Variants of the disease, such as necrotizing sarcoidosis, were first described by Liebow in 1973 and are rarely seen. This case report describes the case of a 60‐year‐old Bengali female who presented with vague symptoms and was found to have chronic granulomatous inflammation with foci of calcifications involving the lungs, liver and spleen consistent with necrotizing sarcoidosis.
Effectiveness of online and blended learning from schools: A systematic review
Authors: Topping Keith J. , Douglas Walter , Robertson Derek , Ferguson Nancy
Published: May 2022

This systematic analysis examines effectiveness research on online and blended learning from schools, particularly relevant during the Covid‐19 pandemic, and also educational games, computer‐supported cooperative learning (CSCL) and computer‐assisted instruction (CAI), largely used in schools but with potential for outside school. Eight research databases were searched. Studies which were non‐school, before 2000, not in English, without data and duplicates were removed, leaving 1355 studies: online 7%, blended 13%, CSCL 7%, games 26% and CAI 47%. Overall, digital technology was more effective (better) than regular instruction in 85% of studies, 8% the same and 3% worse. Blended learning was considerably better than online learning. CAI was the most effective, with games and CSCL coming after blended learning, but of course CAI was not searched for and these were not widely used outside of schools. Primary and early years/kindergarten were most effective (87% better) and secondary/high next (80%). Although science and mathematics were the most popular subjects, English as a foreign language interventions were the most effective, then writing and STEM, thinking, arts/music, humanities, health and science, reading and maths, foreign languages and English in that order. Overall, females did better than males. ‘Low ability’ children and second language learners did especially well. Disadvantaged and special educational needs/disabled students did slightly worse. Self‐efficacy was highly related to better outcomes. The limitations/strengths of the research were discussed and linked back to previous literature, a critical analysis made, and detailed implications for practitioners, policy makers and future researchers outlined. Digital technology's main advantage may be the possibility for enhanced task flexibility and learner autonomy, encouraging greater self‐regulation. However, this may not be an advantage for all students.
An intelligent sliding mode controller of robotic manipulators with output constraints and high‐level adaptation
Authors: Ba Dang Xuan
Published: May 2022

Fast transient responses and excellent steady‐state control performances with flexibility in control operation are core motivations to promote a vast of research in the robotic control sector nowadays. As a sequence, in this paper, we present a learning nonlinear controller for motion control of robotic manipulators with output constraints. The constrained control objectives are first transformed to new free variables using nonlinear synthetization profiles. Boundedness of the main control objectives within feasible ranges of the physical outputs is next strictly guaranteed under a simple sliding‐mode control policy. To improve the control performance, dominant terms of the system dynamics are learnt by a neural network with a nonlinear adaptation law. The systematic deviation remaining is then estimated by an adaptive disturbance observer. A novel high‐level adaptation rule is designed to maximize the learning ability and the control quality. Both an asymptotic control performance and estimation effectiveness are theoretically thoroughly proven by Lyapunov‐based analyses. Feasibility of the overall system is carefully investigated by intensive comparative simulations.
Containment control of discrete‐time multi‐agent systems with application to escort control of multiple vehicles
Authors: Jiang Simin , Wang Shimin , Zhan Zhi , Wu Yuanqing , Lam William H. K. , Zhong Renxin
Published: May 2022

This article investigates the escort control problem for heterogeneous discrete‐time multi‐agent systems with multiple leaders. We develop a distributed output feedback control law such that the followers are secured within the convex hull spanned by the output of the leaders. First, the followers estimate the target convex hull and the system matrices of the leaders via a distributed observer. We then devise a distributed dynamic output feedback control protocol based on this observer to achieve the escort control by using only neighboring relative output information of leaders. The security of the followers is guaranteed by seeing that the output tracking errors converge to zero exponentially. In the numerical simulations, we discuss the potential deployment of the proposed method to a brand‐new escort control of mixed traffic consist of connected automated vehicles and partially automated vehicles. This vehicular escort control formulation can be regarded as a generalization of the conventional vehicular platoon control problem into both longitudinal and lateral dimensions. The numerical results validate the effectiveness and the computational feasibility of the proposed control protocols.
Soil water extractable organic matter under long‐term dryland cropping systems on the Texas High Plains
Authors: Waldrip Heidi , Schwartz Robert C. , He Zhongqi , Todd Richard W. , Baumhardt R. Louis , Zhang Mingchu , Parker David , Brauer David , Min Byeng R.
Published: May 2022

Water extractable organic matter (WEOM) is critical for soil fertility because of its role as a readily available C substrate for microbial metabolism. In the semi‐arid Texas High Plains, dryland cropping systems are common because of limited precipitation and irrigation water. Little is known about the long‐term effects of dryland cropping on soil WEOM content and composition, and how these differ from native grassland. The objective of this study was to use soils collected near Amarillo, TX, in 1977 and 2013 to examine the long‐term (72 yr total cropping length) effects of dryland cropping systems [continuous wheat and wheat–fallow rotations] and tillage methods (disk plow, stubble‐mulch tillage, and delayed stubble‐mulch tillage) on WEOM characteristics, compared with native grassland. In cropped plots, water‐extractable organic carbon (WEOC) concentrations, a measure of WEOM content, were depleted regardless of tillage or crop, with reductions up to 13% in 1977 and 60% in 2013, compared with native grassland in 2013. Other parameters of WEOM changed over time, where cropped soils from 2013 had proportionally more WEOM in aromatic, phenolic, and lignin‐like forms, attributed to recently incorporated crop residues. In contrast, WEOM in cropped soils from 1977 and native grassland (2013) contained more functional groups (e.g., aliphatic, aromatic, polysaccharide, phenol, etc.) and humic‐like substances than cropped soils in 2013. This suggests that long‐term dryland cropping led to depletion of stable, humic‐like WEOM. Enhancement of WEOM stocks and long‐term sustainability in the Texas High Plains may require more vigorous conservation systems than currently used.
Assessing English teaching linguistic and artificial intelligence for efficient learning using analytical hierarchy process and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution
Authors: Hang Yin , Khan Sangeen , Alharbi Abdullah , Nazir Shah
Published: May 2022

The advancement in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized every field of life, including the learning of second languages. These intelligent devices are capable of effectively and efficiently utilizing the time and energy of both learners and teachers. Students can learn at their own pace and at their own skill level. They can learn and practice in an interactive and fruitful environment thanks to intelligent chatbots and voice assistants. Students no longer require humanized teachers as a result of the use of these new methodologies; instead, they can learn more effectively by interacting with computer‐assisted systems. With the integration of information and communication technology (ICT) and AI, new technologies like computer‐assisted language learning (CALL) and mobile‐assisted language learning (MALL) are playing a very crucial role in the learning of the English language. Due to the various AI‐based applications and technologies available, learners are unable to use the most valuable and effective ones. This paper focuses on the role of AI in the learning of the English language. The study will help learners in the selection of efficient and effective AI‐powered paradigms for the teaching and learning process of the English language. Various features have been selected from the identified ones, and then, on the basis of these features, different AI‐grounded paradigms for English learning are ranked using analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). The alternative with the highest performance value is ranked at the top of all available alternatives, while the one with the lowest performance score is placed at the last.
Heat Transfer Characteristics of Hot Slag Modification in a Mechanically Agitated Slag Pot
Authors: Zhang Chunming , Wang Nan , Chen Min
Published: May 2022

Hot slag modification is an energy‐saving technology to promote the reuse of metallurgical slag. In order to improve the temperature distribution uniformity of hot slag and prevent the solidification of hot slag surface during modification, two different structures of slag pots are studied by numerical simulation in this paper, one is using mechanical stirring, and the other one did not. The heat transfer characteristics of the hot slag are investigated by considering the natural convection. In addition, the temperature renewal mechanism of the hot slag surface is discussed. The effect of mechanical stirring on the crusting time of hot slag surface is further studied, and the appropriate modification time is determined. The results show that mechanical stirring can improve the temperature distribution uniformity of hot slag. After mechanical stirring for 2400 s, the surface temperature of hot slag is about 1617 K, which is significantly higher than that without mechanical stirring. The temperature renewal mechanism of the hot slag surface depends on the turbulent kinetic energy of the surface and the axial circulation velocity. The solidification time of the hot slag surface is prolonged by mechanical stirring, and the appropriate modification time is within 2470 s.
Development of an artificial neural network model to predict waste marble powder demand in eco‐efficient self‐compacting concrete
Authors: Acikgenc Ulas Merve
Published: May 2022

The marble industry produces large amount of waste at almost every stage of marble processing. This waste is always uncontrollably discharged into open areas. Therefore, the consumption of Waste Marble Powder (WMP) in concrete is very important and will provide both an economic gain for concrete industries and an opportunity to achieve eco‐efficient concrete production. Self‐Compacting Concrete (SCC) is mostly preferred concrete type which uses the WMP as powdered material. Thus, to increase WMP usage in the production of eco‐efficient SCC, it is aimed in this study to develop a model that can predict WMP demand. To develop this model, Artificial Neural Network (ANN), an artificial intelligence method, was preferred. An ANN model was developed using a comprehensive dataset that included eco‐efficient SCC mixture compositions, workability measurements, and compressive strengths. The ANN model with seven inputs and one output as WMP was successfully trained and managed to produce the correct outputs to both validation and test datasets. Mix design of SCC with aimed properties can be a long process compared to conventional concrete. The proposed ANN model could reduce time loss in the production process. ANN's success is expected to facilitate the production of eco‐efficient SCC with WMP.
Stability analysis of sub‐/super‐synchronous oscillation based on closed‐loop transfer function poles of D‐PMSG wind power systems
Authors: Shen Ruixin , Yang Songhao , Hao Zhiguo
Published: May 2022

In recent years, the sub‐/super‐synchronous oscillation (SSO) caused by grid integration of direct‐drive permanent magnet synchronous generators (D‐PMSG) has attracted wide attention. However, most of the existing stability analysis methods are either complex or cannot quantitatively analyze the influence of parameter changes on system stability. To address the problems, this paper proposes a novel stability analysis method for SSO in the D‐PMSG integrated power system based on closed‐loop transfer function poles. Firstly, the impedance modeling method was introduced to analyze the stability of the D‐PMSG power system. Then, a stability criterion was proposed based on the poles of the closed‐loop function. The proposed criterion is simple and has a clear physical background. The real part of the poles represents the damping while the imaginary part of the pole reflects the oscillation frequency. Finally, simulation results verify the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed method. Moreover, its application in influence factors for quantitative analysis was also validated. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Japanese Syllable Estimation Using Lip and Chin Movements
Authors: Nakamura Etsuro , Honda Yusuke , Kageyama Yoichi , Hirose Satoshi
Published: May 2022

The accuracy of speech recognition from image data can be improved using a lip‐reading method, even in noisy environments. In related research, lip‐reading has not focused on jaw movements. In addition, few studies have focused on Japanese syllables. Owing to the relationship between Japanese vowels and jaw movements, such movements can improve the accuracy of syllable estimations. To improve the lip‐reading method, we studied the syllable identification method in Japanese using the features of both chin and lip movements. In addition to lip movements, the chin movement features are an improved F‐measure for a syllable identification method in Japanese. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Syringic acid and silymarin concurrent administration inhibits sodium valproate‐induced liver injury in rats
Authors: Gheena Sukumaran , Ezhilarasan Devaraj , Shree Harini Karthik , Rajeshkumar Shanmugam
Published: May 2022

Sodium valproate (SV) is a well‐known anti‐epileptic drug, also used to control convulsions, bipolar disorders and migraines. SV has been shown to induce liver toxicity in clinical subjects. Syringic acid (SA), a natural polyphenolic compound has potential antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and several beneficial effects. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated hepatoprotective effect of SA against SV‐induced liver injury in rats. Wistar rats were treated with SV orally at a dose of 500 mg/kg, once daily, for 14 days. Another three groups of rats were administered with SV and concurrently treated with SA (40 and 80 mg/kg) and silymarin (SIL) (100 mg/kg) for 14 days. SV administration for 14 days caused significant (p < .001) elevation of liver transaminases and ALP in serum. Liver MDA level was significantly (p < .001) increased with a concomitant decrease (p < .001) in enzymic antioxidants activities in SV administered rats. SV administration also caused the upregulation of proinflammatory markers such as tumor necrosis factor α, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase, nuclear factor kappa B, cyclooxygenase‐2 and Interleukin 6 expressions in liver tissue. Histopathological studies also revealed the presence of inflammatory cell infiltration and hepatocellular necrosis upon SV administration. At both doses, concurrent administration of SA and SIL significantly (p < .001) inhibited the liver transaminase activities in serum, oxidative stress, and proinflammatory markers expression in liver tissue. Our current results suggest that SA can be a promising herbal drug that can inhibit SV‐induced hepatotoxicity when administered together due its potential anti‐inflammatory effects.
Electronic Modification of a Sterically Demanding Anionic Pyridine Ligand
Authors: Schmidlin Nadja M. C. , Radtke Valentin , Schmidt Alexei , Lõkov Märt , Leito Ivo , Böttcher Tobias
Published: May 2022

The sterically demanding anionic pyridine ligand [4‐(Ph3B)‐2,6‐Mes2py]−([1]−) was used in salt metathesis reactions in order to obtain main group and transition metal complexes. Instead, reduction reactions were observed and identified as single electron transfer processes from [1]−to the respective Lewis acidic cations. The electron transfer was confirmed by reduction of the trityl cation. In order to reduce the reductive power of [1]−the borate function of the ligand was substituted with strongly electron withdrawing 3,5‐bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl groups to give [1F]−. The redox potential was shifted from +0.56 V to +1.32 V and hence, [1F]−cannot reduce the trityl cation in contrast to [1]−. Consequently, the measured pKavalue of1F‐H (16.44) was lowered by two pKaunits compared with1‐H. Unfortunately, [1F]−still undergoes single electron transfer processes when used in salt metathesis reactions. We synthesized the anionic borane adduct [Li(THF)4][1F‐BH3] which demonstrates that [1F]−can be used as a ligand in main group chemistry. The determination of the crystal structures of [Li(THF)4][1F] and [Li(THF)4][1F‐BH3] revealed separated ion pairs while their analogs with the more electron rich [1]−are contact ion pairs.
Carrollian superconformal theories and super BMS
Authors: Bagchi Arjun , Grumiller Daniel , Nandi Poulami
Published: May 2022

Abstract

We investigate the supersymmetric versions of Bondi-Metzner-Sachs or, equivalently, conformal Carroll symmetry in boundary dimensions d > 3, with applications of flat space holography in mind. We identify the contraction of the relativistic symmetry relevant for our purposes and construct a finite-dimensional Carrollian superconformal algebra (CSA) before proposing an infinite-dimensional lift. We provide the superspace formulation for $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 CSA and work towards an understanding of the representation theory of the algebra. We conclude with some aspects of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
> 1 CSA.