bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, spectral, crystal structure, drug‐likeness, in silico, and in vitro biological screening of halogen [Cl, Br] substituted N‐phenylbenzo[g]indazole derivatives as antimicrobial agents
Authors: Saminathan Murugavel , Jayakumar Mohan Raj , Chandrasekaran Ravikumar , Raja Ranganathan , George Jaabil , Alagusundaram Ponnuswamy
Published: December 2020

The N‐phenylbenzo[g]indazole derivatives, 3‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐3,3a,4,5‐tetrahydro‐N‐phenylbenzo[g]indazole‐2‐carbothioamide (4CLPBIC), 3‐(4‐bromophenyl)‐3,3a,4,5‐tetrahydro‐N‐phenylbenzo[g]indazole‐2‐carbothioamide (4BRPBIC), and 3‐(3‐bromophenyl)‐3,3a,4,5‐tetrahydro‐N‐phenylbenzo[g]indazole‐2‐carbothioamide (3BRPBIC), were synthesized by the one‐pot green amalgamation of solvent‐free granulating methodology procedure at room temperature. The synthesized crystals were characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SC‐XRD), FT‐IR, FT‐Raman, NMR, and UV–Vis techniques. The molecular geometries from XRD experimental values of synthesized compounds 4CLPBIC, 4BRPBIC, and 3BRPBIC in the ground state are compared theoretically by applying the density functional theory (DFT), a method with the B3LYP/6‐311G(d,p) basis set using Gaussian 09 software. The vibrational assignments of the synthesized compounds were studied based on potential energy distribution (PED) by the VEDA4 program. The scaled DFT/B3LYP/6‐311G(d,p) results show the best agreement with the experimental values. Computational 1H and 13C NMR were acquired by utilizing gauge‐independent atomic orbital (GIAO) procedure, and chemical shift results are in good agreement with the experimental values. A web‐based theoretical investigation was performed to understand the drug‐likeness and ADMET properties of the compounds. Molecular docking studies were carried out against bacterial cholesterol inhibitor block and inhibitor of lanosterol‐14α‐demethylase CYP51 used in the treatment of topical and systemic mycoses in fungal to understand the inhibitory activity of synthesized compounds. The synthesized molecules were also tested for antibacterial and antifungal activities.
Convolutional neural network for accelerating the computation of the extended Tofts model in dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Fang Ke , Wang Zejun , Li Zhaoqing , Wang Bao , Han Guangxu , Cheng Zhaowei , Chen Zhihong , Lan Chuanjin , Zhang Yi , Zhao Peng , Jin Xinyu , Liu Yingchao , Bai Ruiliang
Published: December 2020

Quantitative physiological parameters can be obtained from nonlinear pharmacokinetic models, such as the extended Tofts (eTofts) model, applied to dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI). However, the computation of such nonlinear models is time consuming. The aim of this study was to develop a convolutional neural network (CNN) for accelerating the computation of fitting eTofts model without sacrificing agreement with conventional nonlinear‐least‐square (NLLS) fitting. This was a retrospective study, which included 13 patients with brain glioma for training (75%) and validation (25%), and 11 patients (three glioma, four brain metastases, and four lymphoma) for testing. CAIPIRINHA‐Dixon‐TWIST DCE‐MRI and double flip angle T1 map acquired at 3 T were used. A CNN with both local pathway and global pathway modules was designed to estimate the eTofts model parameters, the volume transfer constant (Ktrans), blood volume fraction (vp), and volume fraction of extracellular extravascular space (ve), from DCE‐MRI data of tumor and normal‐appearing voxels. The CNN was trained on mixed dataset consisting of synthetic and patient data. The CNN result and computation speed were compared with NLLS fitting. The robustness to noise variations and generalization to brain metastases and lymphoma data were also evaluated. Statistical tests used were Student's t test on mean absolute error, concordance correlation coefficient (CCC), and normalized root mean squared error. Including global pathway modules in the CNN and training the network with mixed data significantly (p < 0.05) improved the CNN performance. Compared with NLLS fitting, CNN yields an average CCC greater than 0.986 for Ktrans, greater than 0.965 for vp, and greater than 0.948 for ve. The CNN accelerated computation speed approximately 2000 times compared to NLLS, showed robustness to noise (signal‐to‐noise ratio >34.42 dB), and had no significant (p > 0.21) difference applied to brain metastases and lymphoma data. In conclusion, the proposed CNN to estimate eTofts parameters showed comparable result as NLLS fitting while significantly reducing the computation time.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy Stage

1
Alteration of single‐subject gray matter networks in major depressed patients with suicidality
Authors: Li Huiru , Yang Jing , Yin Li , Zhang Huawei , Zhang Feifei , Chen Ziqi , Jia Zhiyun , Gong Qiyong
Published: December 2020

While regional brain alterations and functional connectivity in depressed suicidal patients have previously been reported, knowledge about gray matter (GM) structural networks is limited. The aim of this study was to explore the GM of depressed suicidal brains from the single‐subject structural network level. This was a cross‐sectional study, in which 50 healthy controls (HC, 31 ± 9 years), 50 major depressed patients without suicidality (NSD, 29 ± 10 years), and 50 major depressed patients with suicidality (SU, 29 ± 12 years) were enrolled. T1‐weighted images (T1WI) were acquired with three‐dimensional‐magnetization prepared rapid gradient echo sequence in 3.0 T magnetic resonance. The analysis was performed using the automated Computational Anatomy Toolbox (CAT12) within Statistical Parametric Mapping while running MATLAB. The T1 images were segmented into GM, white matter, and cerebrospinal fluid. Then single‐subject structural networks were constructed based on the morphological similarity of GM regions. Global network topological properties, including clustering coefficient (Cp), characterpath length (Lp), normalized clustering coefficient (γ), normalized characteristic path length (λ), small‐worldness (σ), global efficiency (Eglob), local efficiency (Eloc), and nodal network topological properties, including nodal efficiency, degree, and betweenness centrality, were measured using graph theory analysis. Statistical tests performed were analysis of variance, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis. Decreased Eglob and increased shortest Lp were observed in SU group compared to HC and NSD groups (p < 0.05). The NSD and SU groups had an increased λ and decreased Eloc compared to the HC group (p < 0.05). Altered nodal efficiency was found in the fronto‐striatum‐limbic‐thalamic circuit in the SU group compared with the HC and NSD groups (all p < 0.05). The GM network in the SU group showed decreased segregation and weaker integration, that is weaker small‐worldness, compared to the NSD and HC groups. Abnormal nodal efficiency was found in the fronto‐striatum‐limbic‐thalamic circuit in suicidal brains. This study provides new evidence for therapeutic targets for patients with depression and suicidality.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy Stage

3
Impact of Vertical Stiffness Gradient on the Maximum Divergence Angle
Authors: Farbos de Luzan Charles , Maddox Alexandra , Oren Liran , Gutmark Ephraim , Howell Rebecca J. , Khosla Sid M.
Published: December 2020

Introduction

During vocal fold vibration, the medial surface of both folds forms a convergent shape during opening and a divergent shape during closing. A greater maximum divergence angle is associated with greater closing forces which will increase the closing speed of the glottis. An increased closing speed results in a greater acoustic intensity and greater vocal efficiency. Indentation testing showed that as the strain increases, the inferior aspect of the folds becomes stiffer than the superior aspect, resulting in the vertical stiffness gradient (VSG). We hypothesize that a reduction of the vertical stiffness gradient will reduce the maximum divergence angle.

Methods

Four excised canine larynges were tested. Stress–strain curves of the superior and inferior aspects of the fold in the mid membranous plane of the baseline larynges were taken using the indentation method. Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) crystals were then injected into the superior aspect of the fold. The stress–strain tests were repeated. Particle imaging velocimetry (PIV) of the intraglottal velocity fields was performed in three larynges at different subglottal pressures in the mid coronal plane for the baseline and CaHA‐injected larynges.

Results

CaHA injection reduced the inferior–superior stiffness gradient in all larynges. The maximal divergence angle was markedly reduced. In some cases, there was not a divergent angle.

Discussion

Marked reduction of the vertical stiffness gradient significantly reduces the maximum divergence angle. Clinical implications will be discussed.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:E1934–E1940, 2021
Phenolic profiles and nutritional quality of four new mungbean lines grown in northern Australia
Authors: Johnson Joel B. , Mani Janice S. , Skylas Daniel , Walsh Kerry B. , Bhattarai Surya P. , Naiker Mani
Published: December 2020

Four new lines of mungbean cultivated under northern Australian cropping conditions (19.8462°S, 147.2448°E) were characterised for yield, seed characteristics, nutritional contents, phytochemical profiles and phenolic acid contents. Their performance was compared to a commercially grown mungbean line (Jade‐AU). The seed yield for three of the new lines (AVTMB 1, 3 and 4) was 14% higher compared to Jade‐AU. However, the seed size of AVTMB 1 was also significantly smaller compared to the other lines and Jade‐AU. in vitro sprouting acceptability scores ranged between 80% and 100%, with no significant difference between lines. Ash content was highest (4.26% w/w) for lines with smallest seed (e.g., AVTMB 1), while higher protein content was recorded for AVTMB 1 followed by AVTMB 4, AVTMB 3 and Jade‐AU, and lowest in AVTMB 2. The seed coat colour of AVTMB 1 and 4 was significantly different (lighter green) than other lines and Jade‐AU, whereas the flour colour did not vary significantly. Total polyphenolic content, antioxidant capacity and total monomeric anthocyanin content did not vary significantly between lines. Phenolic acid and flavonoid profiling by HPLC showed the predominant constituents to be vitexin (which averaged between 115 and 149 μg/g for different lines), isovitexin (132–174 μg/g) and catechin (94–105 μg/g). There were statistically significant differences between the mungbean lines for several individual phenolic acids, including p‐hydroxybenzoic, vanillic, caffeic, sinapic, ferulic and cinnamic acids, as well as for the flavonoid glycoside vitexin. In most cases, with the highest concentrations of these compounds were found in AVTMB 4 or AVTMB 1. Several of these new mungbean lines show potential for commercial cropping in the drier, hotter regions of northern Australia due to their yield and seed quality performance.
MicroRNA‐141‐3p regulates cellular proliferation, migration, and invasion in esophageal cancer by targeting tuberous sclerosis complex 1
Authors: Phatak Pornima , Noe Michael , Asrani Kaushal , Chesnick Ingrid E. , Greenwald Bruce D. , Donahue James M.
Published: December 2020

MicroRNA (miR)−141‐3p, which functions as an oncogene in multiple malignancies, has been shown to be highly overexpressed in esophageal cancer cells in our previous work. miR‐141‐3p is predicted to bind the messenger RNA (mRNA) of tuberous sclerosis complex 1 (TSC1), a tumor suppressor, with high affinity. In this study, we investigated the expression and functional interaction between miR‐141‐3p and TSC1 in esophageal cancer cells. Experiments were conducted in four esophageal cancer lines and in tumor cells isolated from human esophageal cancer specimens by laser capture microdissection. miR‐141‐3p expression was measured by real time and droplet digital PCR. Biotinylated RNA pull‐down and luciferase reporter assays were used to assess binding. miR‐141‐3p function was tested by assessing proliferation, migration, invasion, and induction of autophagy following its silencing. We found that miR‐141‐3p levels were increased in TE7, OE33, and TE10 esophageal cancer cells compared to FLO‐1 cells, with similar heterogeneity observed in human esophageal cancer specimens. Silencing of miR‐141‐3p led to increased TSC1 protein expression in these cells and was associated with increased TSC1 translation. Binding studies reveal that miR‐141‐3p binds to each of the predicted binding sites in the 3′‐untranslated region of TSC1 mRNA. Following miR‐141‐3p silencing, TE7, OE33, and TE10 cells exhibited decreased proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as enhanced autophagy. Importantly, these phenotypic effects were replicated by overexpression of TSC1 alone in these cells. Our results indicate that miR‐141‐3p functions in an oncogenic capacity in a subset of esophageal cancer cells, in part by suppressing TSC1 expression.
Consensus Guidelines on Rodent Models of Restless Legs Syndrome
Authors: Salminen Aaro V. , Silvani Alessandro , Allen Richard P. , Clemens Stefan , Garcia‐Borreguero Diego , Ghorayeb Imad , Ferré Sergi , Li Yuqing , Ondo William , Picchietti Daniel L. , Rye David , Siegel Jerome M. , Winkelman John W. , Manconi Mauro ,   International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG)
Published: December 2020

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a chronic sensorimotor disorder diagnosed by clinical symptoms. It is challenging to translate the diagnostic self‐reported features of RLS to animals. To help researchers design their experiments, a task force was convened to develop consensus guidelines for experimental readouts in RLS animal models. The RLS clinical diagnostic criteria were used as a starting point. After soliciting additional important clinical features of RLS, a consensus set of methods and outcome measures intent on capturing these features—in the absence of a face‐to‐face interview—was generated and subsequently prioritized by the task force. These were, in turn, translated into corresponding methods and outcome measures for research on laboratory rats and mice and used to generate the final recommendations. The task force recommended activity monitoring and polysomnography as principal tools in assessing RLS‐like behavior in rodents. Data derived from these methods were determined to be the preferred surrogate measures for the urge to move, the principal defining feature of RLS. The same tools may be used to objectively demonstrate sleep‐state features highly associated with RLS, such as sleep disturbance and number and periodicity of limb movements. Pharmacological challenges and dietary or other manipulations that affect iron availability are desirable to aggravate or improve RLS‐like behavior and lend greater confidence that the animal model being proffered replicates key clinical features of RLS. These guidelines provide the first consensus experimental framework for researchers to use when developing new rodent models of RLS. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
RFID‐based bidirectional wireless rollover sensor for intelligent wheelchair
Authors: Liu Qi , Zhao Wen‐Sheng , Yu Yufeng
Published: December 2020

This letter proposes an radio frequency identification (RFID)‐based bidirectional wireless rollover sensor for intelligent wheelchair. This sensor consists of two symmetric meandered dipole‐based RFID tags and a tilt switch. The tilt of the wheelchair can be recognized directly by the chip code received by the RFID reader and no data postprocessing is needed, so it could be used to detect the rollover status and activate rollover protective measures of the intelligent wheelchair. Meanwhile, emergency signal containing the location of the fallen wheelchair can also be sent to the hospitals or aid stations nearby through the RFID reader. A typical application scenario of the sensor has been proposed, modeled, and analyzed. Simulations and measurements of the sensor in this scenario have been carried out to validate its performance.
Robotically‐controlled antenna measurement system for millimeter‐wave applications
Authors: Matos Carmen , Humanchuk Jennifer , Ghalichechian Nima
Published: December 2020

The characterization of antenna radiation patterns in millimeter‐wave (mmW) bands can be particularly challenging. Due to a small wavelength, minute misplacement of the probe antenna in the order of few millimeters can generate substantial errors in the measured pattern. A highly precise measurement system that incorporates a 6‐axis compact robotic arm is implemented to overcome this challenge. System testing shows a positional accuracy and repeatability of approximately 20 μm or 0.004λ at 60 GHz. After implementation, programming, and testing, the system is used to measure gain patterns on three different mmW antennas. The radiation pattern of a 50–75 GHz standard gain horn antenna demonstrated the accurate measurement at the far‐field using the robotically controlled system. Furthermore, the characterization of the center element pattern of a 60 GHz phased array has shown that the measurements with this system are repeatable and suitable for arrays as well. Additionally, we performed near‐field measurements by successfully characterizing a 40–60 GHz horn antenna with a planar scan.
A unified scatter rejection and correction method for cone beam computed tomography
Authors: Altunbas Cem , Park Yeonok , Yu Zhelin , Gopal Anant
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Scattered radiation is a major cause of image quality degradation in flat panel detector‐based cone beam CT (CBCT). While recently introduced 2D antiscatter grids reject the majority of scatter fluence, the small percentage of scatter fluence still transmitted to the detector remains a major challenge for implementation of quantitative imaging techniques such as dual energy imaging in CBCT. Additionally, this residual scatter is also a major source of grid‐induced artifacts, which impedes implementation of 2D grids in CBCT. We therefore present a new method to achieve both robust scatter rejection and residual scatter correction using a 2D antiscatter grid; in doing so, we expand the role of 2D grids from mere scatter rejection devices to scatter measurement devices.

Method

In our method, the radiopaque septa of the 2D grid emulate a micro array of beam‐stops placed on the detector which introduce spatially periodic septal shadows. By selecting sufficiently thin grid septa, the primary intensity can be reduced while preserving the uniformity of scatter intensity. This enables us to correlate the modulated pixel signal intensity in septal shadows with local scatter intensity. Our method then exploits this correlation to measure and remove residual scatter intensity from projections. No assumptions are made about the object being imaged. We refer to this as Grid‐based Scatter Sampling (GSS). In this work, we evaluate the principle of signal modulation with grid septa, the accuracy of scatter estimates, and the effect of the GSS method on image quality using simulations and measurements. We also implement the GSS method experimentally using a 2D grid prototype.

Results

Our results demonstrate that the GSS method increased CT number accuracy and reduced image artifacts associated with scatter. With 2D grid and residual scatter correction, HU nonuniformity was reduced from 65 HU to 30 HU in pelvis sized phantoms, and HU variations due to change in phantom size were reduced from 59 HU to 20 HU, when compared to use of only a 2D grid. With residual scatter correction via GSS method, grid‐induced ring artifacts were suppressed, leading to a 41% reduction in noise. The shape of the modulation transfer function (MTF) was preserved before and after suppression of ring artifacts.

Conclusions

Our grid‐based scatter sampling method enables utilization of a 2D grid as a scatter measurement and correction device. This method significantly improves quantitative accuracy in CBCT, further reducing the image quality gap between CBCT and multi‐detector CT. By correcting residual scatter with the proposed method, grid‐induced line artifacts in projections and associated ring artifacts in CBCT images were also suppressed with no compromise of spatial resolution.
An adjoint‐assisted multilevel multifidelity method for uncertainty quantification and its application to turbomachinery manufacturing variability
Authors: Mohanamuraly Pavanakumar , Müller Jens‐Dominik
Published: December 2020

In this work we propose, analyze, and demonstrate an adjoint‐based multilevel multifidelity Monte Carlo (MLMF) framework called FastUQ. The framework is based on the MLMF of Geraci et al. and uses the Inexpensive Monte Carlo (IMC) method of Ghate as low‐fidelity surrogate. The setup cost of IMC‐1 surrogate in FastUQ requires just the adjoint solution at the input mean whose computational cost is independent of the number of input uncertainties making it suitable for solving problems with a large number of uncertain parameters. We demonstrate the robustness of the method to quantify uncertainties in aerodynamic parameters due to surface variations caused by the manufacturing processes for a highly loaded turbine cascade. A stochastic model for surface variations on the cascade is proposed and optimal dimensionality reduction of model parameters is realised using goal‐based principal component analysis using adjoint sensitivities of multiple quantities of interest. The proposed method achieves a 70% reduction in computational cost in predicting the mean quantities such as total‐pressure loss and mass flow rate compared to the state‐of‐art MLMC method.
The Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act and Pediatric Research Equity Act reach the age of majority—An oncology perspective
Authors: Bernhardt M. Brooke , Lindsay Holly , Allen‐Rhoades Wendy , Foster Jennifer H.
Published: December 2020

The scarcity of adequate pediatric drug labeling information has long been problematic in the pediatric population, which may place children at risk for adverse drug effects. The ontogeny of infants, children, and adolescents over the course of the first two decades of life pose complex pharmacokinetic, dosing, administration, effectiveness, and toxicity‐related questions that require specific investigation. Here, we review the history that led to the passage of the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act (BPCA) and Pediatric Research Equity Act (PREA), and provide commentary on issues relevant to pediatric oncology now and in the future.
Effects of protecting group and counter‐anion on fluorination, bromination, and intramolecular cyclization of phenethylamine diaryliodonium salts: Quantum chemical analysis
Authors: Choi Hyoju , Oh Young‐Ho
Published: December 2020

We analyze the effects of protecting group(s) and counter‐anion on the relative efficiency of fluorination, bromination and intramolecular cyclization of phenethylamine diaryliodonium salts (1) for nucleophilic fluorination using CsF as a model system for the synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals such as 18F‐dopa and 18F‐dopamine. We demonstrate by quantum chemical analysis that protection of –NH2 by –Boc groups strongly influences the relative yields of nucleophilic fluorination versus side reactions (bromination and intramolecular cyclization) through intricate interactions with iodonium, counter‐anion (Br−, F−, or OMs−) to iodonium, and counter‐cation Cs+ to the nucleophile F−. Protection of the amino by one or two –Boc group(s) render fluorination to be strongly favored over bromination/cyclization. Possibility of direct attack by counter‐anion is assessed. We propose that mesylate (–OMs−) would be much better counter‐anion than Br− because of its much weaker nucleophilicity. F− is also preferred as a counter‐anion, because using it would exclusively give fluorinated product. We also estimate the capability of crown ether (18‐crown‐6) as a Lewis base promoter for enhancing the rates of fluorination.
The role of attentional biases in the context of cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Pradhan Poorva , Sharpe Louise , Butow Phyllis
Published: December 2020

Objective

Little is known about the role of attentional processes in the context of cancer. This systematic review aimed to (1) synthesize the literature on attentional biases in cancer survivors; and (2) assess if these biases are associated with indicators of psychological distress.

Method

Studies were identified through a systematic search in PsycINFO, Medline, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science and Embase databases. We included studies that examined attentional biases using an accepted experimental paradigm (Dot‐probe or Stroop) in cancer survivors.

Results

Of 4105 papers identified, 18 met inclusion criteria. Cancer survivors had a greater attentional bias towards salient stimuli (cancer/negative stimuli) as compared to controls (Hedge's g = 0.82). Survivors who were more distressed had greater attentional biases (Hedge's g = 0.27). It was unclear whether the nature of stimuli was important in driving these effects (e.g., cancer‐specific vs. negative).

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that cancer survivors have an attentional bias towards cancer‐related (typically words) or negative stimuli (typically facial expressions), and that bias is greater for those with higher levels of distress.
Early factors related to mortality in children treated with bi‐level noninvasive ventilation and CPAP
Authors: López Jorge , Pons‐Òdena Martí , Medina Alberto , Molinos‐Norniella Cristina , Palanca‐Arias Daniel , Demirkol Demet , León‐González José S. , López‐Fernández Yolanda M. , Perez‐Baena Luis , López‐Herce Jesús ,   NIV Research Group
Published: December 2020

Objective

To describe and analyze the characteristics and the early risk factors for mortality of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in critically ill children.

Study design

A multicenter, prospective, observational 2‐year study carried out with critically ill patients (1 month – 18 years of age) who needed NIV. Clinical data and NIV parameters during the first 12 h of admission were collected. A multilevel mixed‐effects logistic regression was performed to identify mortality risk factors.

Results

A total of 781 patients (44.2 ± 57.7 months) were studied (57.8% male). Of them, 53.7% had an underlying condition, and 47.1% needed NIV for lower airway respiratory pathologies. Bi‐level NIV was the initial support in 78.2% of the patients. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) was used more in younger patients (33.7%) than in older ones (9.7%; p < .001). About 16.7% had to be intubated and 6.2% died. The risk factors for mortality were immunodeficiency (odds ratio [OR] = 11.79; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.95–47.13); cerebral palsy (OR = 5.86; 95% CI = 1.94–17.65); presence of apneas on admission (OR = 5.57; 95% CI = 2.13–14.58); tachypnea 6 h after NIV onset (OR = 2.59; 95% CI = 1.30–6.94); and NIV failure (OR = 6.54; 95% CI = 2.79–15.34).

Conclusion

NIV is used with great variability in types of support. Younger children receive CPAP more frequently than older children. Immunodeficiency, cerebral palsy, apneas on admission, tachypnea 6 h after NIV onset, and NIV failure are the early factors associated with mortality.
Thermal Annealing Effects on Naturally Contacted Monolayer MoS2
Authors: Bizhani Maryam , Thorat Ruhi , Poston William , Wickramasinghe Thushan , Aleithan Shrouq H. , Stinaff Eric
Published: December 2020

Transition metal dichalcogenides such as MoS2, which can be produced in monolayer form, have attracted attention because of their interesting and potentially useful electrical and optical properties. These properties often depend sensitively on material properties such as defect density and crystallinity. Herein, the effects of postgrowth annealing on monolayer MoS2 grown using a novel chemical vapor deposition process are investigated. In this process bulk molybdenum patterns serve as the nucleation site and source material for high‐quality MoS2 material growth. After postgrowth thermal annealing, the photoluminescence is found to blueshift and become more uniform up to an annealing temperature of 300 °C. At higher temperatures, isolated monolayers begin to crack along the grain boundaries, which leads to variations in luminescence, whereas after annealing temperature of 200 °C, material anchored to the molybdenum patterns is found to easily ablate.
Solution‐Processed Organic/p‐Type Silicon Hybrid Heterojunction Solar Cells
Authors: Jiao Chaohui , Su Hao , Lv Mingzhi , Zhao Yonggang , Xiao Wei , Fu Yujun , Liu Dequan , Li Junshuai , Liu Qiming , He Deyan
Published: December 2020

Organic–inorganic hybrid heterojunction solar cells have gained extensive attention due to the simple device structure and low‐cost technological processes, and n‐type silicon has been mainly used as the inorganic absorber in previous research. Herein, hybrid heterojunction solar cells based on p‐type silicon are successfully prepared through a low‐temperature solution method. A preliminary power conversion efficiency over 4% is observed, via optimizing the organic thin‐film deposition and organic/inorganic interface, which enhance the built‐in field and promote the separation of photogenerated carriers in the heterojunction. Therefore, a new idea and possibility are provided for developing low‐cost, high‐performance solar cells.
Highly Efficient Inverted Polymer Solar Cells Using an Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide Interfacial Layer
Authors: Kim Jun Young , Biswas Swarup , Lee Yongju , Lee Hyeong Won , Jeon Jae Min , Kim Hyeok
Published: December 2020

Organic polymer semiconductor‐based polymer solar cells (PSCs) are drawing tremendous research interest for their superior electrical, structural, optical, mechanical, and chemical properties. During the last two decades, immense efforts have been made toward the development of PSCs. Generally, poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is used as hole transport layer (HTL) of PSCs to improve hole extraction efficiency, but highly acidic PEDOT:PSS reduces device lifetime by destroying indium tin oxide (ITO) electrodes and active layers. To avoid this, some have attempted to develop inverted structured PSCs with different electron transport layers (ETLs); however, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of these devices is limited owing to low electron mobility of their ETLs. Therefore, an attempt is made to improve the PCE of an inverted‐structured PSC by using indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) with optimized amount of indium (In), gallium (Ga), and zinc (Zn). Inverted PSCs with ZnO or IGZO (having various molar ratios of In, Ga, and Zn) as ETL with the structure ITO/ETL/PTB7:PC71BM/MoO3/Al are constructed. The PCE of the inverted PSC can be increased from 6.22% to 8.72% by using IGZO with an optimized weight ratio of In, Ga, and Zn as an ETL.
Sinosasa (Poaceae: Bambusoideae), a new genus from China
Authors: Qin Qiao‐Mei , Tong Yi‐Hua , Zheng Xi‐Rong , Ni Jing‐Bo , Xia Nian‐He
Published: December 2020

Sasa is a taxonomically problematic genus of bamboos mainly distributed in Japan and China. Recent phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that Sasa is polyphyletic, with Chinese species of Sasa being distantly related to species from Japan. Based on newly collected flowering materials from China, it was found that the Chinese species hitherto placed in Sasa subg. Sasa have racemose synflorescences, 2–3 florets per spikelet with a rudimentary terminal floret, and 3 stamens and 2 stigmas per floret. This distinguishes them from the type of Sasa and other species of that genus, which have paniculate synflorescences, 4–10 florets per spikelet, and 6 stamens and 3 stigmas per floret. Together with several differences in vegetative characters between these two groups, this morphological distinction warrants recognition of a new genus for the Chinese species hitherto placed in Sasa subg. Sasa. The results of our molecular phylogenetic analyses also strongly support the monophyly of the Chinese representatives of Sasa subg. Sasa. The new genus Sinosasa is described to accommodate the Chinese species, including three previously recognized species and four new species.
Influence of Solvents on Steroid Extraction from Animal Feces and Quantification Using Enzyme Immunoassay
Authors: Wang Yihua , Hu Xiaolong , Liu Gang , Hu Defu , Liu Dongping
Published: December 2020

Organic solvents, such as methanol (MeOH) and ethanol (EtOH), are commonly used to extract and preserve steroids from animal excreta (feces, urine). As a result, the target substances are often in the solvent when they are subsequently analyzed using enzyme immunoassay (EIA). We examined steroid extraction from the feces of forest musk deer (Moschus berezovskii; collected in Sichuan Province, China, during 2017) using different concentrations of MeOH or EtOH (60%, 80%, 90%, or 100%). We also tested the effects of EtOH solvent on the accuracy of the EIA used to determine steroid concentration. Our results show that 100% MeOH and 90% EtOH resulted in the extraction of greater cortisol content from the feces of female forest musk deer compared with 90% MeOH and 100% EtOH (P < 0.05). Greater estradiol content was extracted with 100% and 90% EtOH compared with other EtOH concentrations or MeOH. The largest testosterone amount was extracted using 90% EtOH. In our evaluation of the effects of EtOH concentration on the accuracy of the EIA test, we found that inaccurate results appeared when the sample EtOH concentration was >7%. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
Unsteady hybrid nanofluid flow on a stagnation point of a permeable rigid surface
Authors: Waini Iskandar , Ishak Anuar , Pop Ioan
Published: December 2020

This study investigates the unsteady flow of Al2O3‐Cu/water hybrid nanofluid on a stagnation point of a permeable rigid surface. The similarity equations are obtained using similarity variables and then solved using the bvp4c solver. The outcomes show that dual solutions exist for the negative unsteadiness and some mass flux parameters. Besides, the heat transfer rate is intensified with the hybrid nanoparticles. Moreover, the increasing of the mass flux parameter tends to increase the heat transfer rate and the skin friction on the surface. Also, the reduction of the skin friction coefficient is observed, and a higher heat transfer rate is achieved for smaller values of the unsteadiness parameter. Finally, by a temporal stability analysis, it is found that the first solution is stable and reliable as time evolves.
Quantum phenomenological gravitational dynamics: a general view from thermodynamics of spacetime
Authors: Alonso-Serrano A. , Liška M.
Published: December 2020

Abstract

In this work we derive general quantum phenomenological equations of gravitational dynamics and analyse its features. The derivation uses the formalism developed in thermodynamics of spacetime and introduces low energy quantum gravity modifications to it. Quantum gravity effects are considered via modification of Bekenstein entropy by an extra logarithmic term in the area. This modification is predicted by several approaches to quantum gravity, including loop quantum gravity, string theory, AdS/CFT correspondence and generalised uncertainty principle phenomenology, giving our result a general character. The derived equations generalise classical equations of motion of unimodular gravity, instead of the ones of general relativity, and they contain at most second derivatives of the metric. We provide two independent derivations of the equations based on thermodynamics of local causal diamonds. First one uses Jacobson's maximal vacuum entanglement hypothesis, the second one Clausius entropy flux. Furthermore, we consider questions of diffeomorphism and local Lorentz invariance of the resulting dynamics and discuss its application to a simple cosmological model, finding a resolution of the classical singularity.
Massive fishnets
Authors: Loebbert Florian , Miczajka Julian
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Recently, infinite families of massive Feynman integrals were found to feature an unexpected Yangian symmetry. In the massless case, similar integrability properties are understood via the interpretation of individual Feynman integrals as correlators in the massless fishnet theory introduced by Gürdoğan and Kazakov. Here we seek for an analogous interpretation of the integrability of massive Feynman integrals. We contrast two approaches to define simple massive quantum field theories in four dimensions. First, we discuss spontaneous symmetry breaking in the massless bi-scalar fishnet theory. We then propose an alternative route to a massive fishnet theory by taking a double-scaling limit of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM theory on the Coulomb branch. Both approaches lead to a massive extension of the massless fishnet theory, differing in how masses enter into the propagators. In the latter theory, planar off-shell amplitudes are in one-to-one correspondence with precisely those massive Feynman integrals that were shown to be invariant under the Yangian. This suggests a re-investigation of Coulomb branch $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM theory with regard to integrability. Finally, we demonstrate that in the case of spontaneous symmetry breaking, the original conformal symmetry leads to soft theorems for scattering amplitudes in the broken phase.
Characterization of gait variability in multiple system atrophy and Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Sidoroff Victoria , Raccagni Cecilia , Kaindlstorfer Christine , Eschlboeck Sabine , Fanciulli Alessandra , Granata Roberta , Eskofier Björn , Seppi Klaus , Poewe Werner , Willeit Johann , Kiechl Stefan , Mahlknecht Philipp , Stockner Heike , Marini Kathrin , Schorr Oliver , Rungger Gregorio , Klucken Jochen , Wenning Gregor , Gaßner Heiko
Published: December 2020

Background

Gait impairment is a pivotal feature of parkinsonian syndromes and increased gait variability is associated with postural instability and a higher risk of falls.

Objectives

We compared gait variability at different walking velocities between and within groups of patients with Parkinson-variant multiple system atrophy, idiopathic Parkinson’s disease, and a control group of older adults.

Methods

Gait metrics were recorded in 11 multiple system atrophy, 12 Parkinson’s disease patients, and 18 controls using sensor-based gait analysis. Gait variability was analyzed for stride, swing and stance time, stride length and gait velocity. Values were compared between and within the groups at self-paced comfortable, fast and slow walking speed.

Results

Multiple system atrophy patients displayed higher gait variability except for stride time at all velocities compared with controls, while Parkinson’s patients did not. Compared with Parkinson’s disease, multiple system atrophy patients displayed higher variability of swing time, stride length and gait velocity at comfortable speed and at slow speed for swing and stance time, stride length and gait velocity (all P < 0.05). Stride time variability was significantly higher in slow compared to comfortable walking in patients with multiple system atrophy (P = 0.014). Variability parameters significantly correlated with the postural instability/gait difficulty subscore in both disease groups. Conversely, significant correlations between variability parameters and MDS-UPDRS III score was observed only for multiple system atrophy patients.

Conclusion

This analysis suggests that gait variability parameters reflect the major axial impairment and postural instability displayed by multiple system atrophy patients compared with Parkinson’s disease patients and controls.
Correction to: Route reassessment by transporter ants improves speed and directional accuracy of cooperative transport in Formica japonica
Authors: Hisamoto Shumpei , Hosaka Natsumi , Matsunami Yuka , Iwasaki Hideo
Published: December 2020

The article Route reassessment by transporter ants improves speed and directional accuracy of cooperative transport in Formica japonica, written by Shumpei Hisamoto, Natsumi Hosaka, Yuka Matsunami, Hideo Iwasaki, was originally published Online First without Open Access.
Correction to: Experimental tail shortening affects feeding rate depending on original tail length in female barn swallows Hirundo rustica gutturalis
Authors: Hasegawa Masaru , Arai Emi , Nakamura Masahiko
Published: December 2020

The original article can be found online.
Correction to: Short‑term results of a new self‑locking cementless femoral stem: a prospective cohort study of the Lima MasterSL
Authors: Dlaska C. E. , Jovanovic I. A. , Grant A. L. , Graw G. , Wilkinson M. P. , Doma K. , Hazratwala K.
Published: December 2020

The article Short‑term results of a new self‑locking cementless femoral stem: a prospective cohort study of the Lima MasterSL, written by C. E. Dlaska, I. A. Jovanovic, A. L. Grant, G. Graw, M. P. Wilkinson, K. Doma, K. Hazratwala, was originally published electronically on the publisher’s internet portal on 02 March 2020 without open access. With the author(s)’ decision to opt for Open Choice the copyright of the article changed on 12 December 2020.
Parents’ satisfaction on dental care of Dutch children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kind L. S. , Aartman I. H. A. , van Gemert-Schriks M. C. M. , Bonifacio C. C.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To assess if Dutch children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) regularly visit a dentist and to evaluate parent’s satisfaction on the care provided.

Methods

Parents of ASD children (2–18 years) were invited to fill out a survey. The survey consisted of questions regarding ASD severity, frequency of dental visits, history of dental pain, type of dental practice and parents’ satisfaction. Results were analysed using Chi square and Mann–WhitneyUtests (α = 5%).

Results

Of the 246 returned questionnaires, 19 were excluded (incomplete or unconfirmed ASD diagnosis). All children visited a dentist at least once and 5% of them had their last visit more than 12 months ago. According to parents, 15% of the children did not receive the needed care when they had toothache and 21% of the parents were unsatisfied with the current dental care provided. No difference was found between satisfied and unsatisfied parents in type of dental practice visited (p > 0.05). The children of unsatisfied parents reported more often pain during the last year (p = 0.013) and had a more severe type of ASD (p = 0.016).

Conclusions

The majority of Dutch ASD children investigated regularly visit a dentist and 21% of the parents is unsatisfied with the dental care provided.
Competition among coalitions in a cournot industry: a validation of the porter hypothesis
Authors: Lambertini Luca , Pignataro Giuseppe , Tampieri Alessandro
Published: December 2020

We determine the emergence of the Porter hypothesis in a large oligopoly setting where the industry-wide adoption of green technologies is endogenously determined as a result of competition among coalitions. We examine a framework where firms decide whether to be “brown” or “green” and compete in quantities. We find that the Porter hypothesis may emerge as a market configuration with all green firms spurred by environmental regulation, even if consumers are not environmentally concerned. We also single out the necessary and sufficient conditions under which the green grand coalition is socially optimal and therefore yields a win–win outcome. Then, we show that, if the environmental externality is steep enough, the tax rate maximising welfare in the initial industry configuration is a driver of the win–win solution. Finally, the analysis is extended in several directions.
Update on the neurodevelopmental theory of depression: is there any ‘unconscious code’?
Authors: Gałecka Małgorzata , Bliźniewska-Kowalska Katarzyna , Maes Michael , Su Kuan-Pin , Gałecki Piotr
Published: December 2020

Depression is currently one of the most common psychiatric disorders and the number of patients receiving antidepressant treatment is increasing every year. Therefore, it is essential to understand the underlying mechanisms that are associated with higher prevalence of depression. The main component leading to the change in functioning, in the form of apathy, anhedonia, lack of motivation and sleep disturbances, is stress. This is the factor that in recent decades—due to the civilization speed, dynamic technological development as well as competitiveness and competition in relationships—significantly affects the psychophysical condition, which results in an increase in the prevalence of civilization diseases, including depression. To understand the mechanism of susceptibility to this disease, one should consider the significant role of the interaction between immune and nervous systems. Their joint development from the moment of conception is a matrix of later predispositions, both associated with the mobilization of the proinflammatory pathways (TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6) and associated with psychological coping with stress. Such an early development period is associated with epigenetic processes that are strongly marked in prenatal development up to 1 year of age and determinate the characteristic phenotype for various forms of pathology, including depression. Regarding the inflammatory hypothesis of depression, interleukin 17 (IL-17), among other proinflammatory cytokines, might play an important role in the development of depressive disorders. It is secreted by Th17 cells, crossed the placental barrier and acts on the brain structures of the fetus by increasing IL-17 receptor levels and affecting the intensity of its signaling in the brain.
Using Broadband Radio Noise From Power‐Lines to Map and Track Dense Es Structures
Authors: Obenberger K. S. , Dowell J. , Fallen C. T. , Holmes J. M. , Taylor G. B. , Varghese S. S.
Published: December 2020

We present passive observations of midlatitude sporadic E (Es) structures in the 30–50 MHz range using the long wavelength array telescopes in New Mexico. Spectral and temporal analysis of the structures reveals that some of the emissions can be characterized by broadband, spark‐like radiation occurring at a repetition frequency of 60 Hz. The azimuthal distribution indicates that the brightest emissions come from the directions of several large metropolitan centers with distances ranging from 700 to 1,250 km from the telescopes. This implies that the source is unintended human‐made noise, originating from devices connected to 60 Hz alternating current power. The geometry of our observations rule out coherent scatter from field‐aligned irregularities, and indicate that the unintended noise must undergo a specular reflection off of over‐dense plasma distributed approximately parallel to Earth's surface. On certain occasions the reflections are seen at such high frequencies and high elevation angles that the local plasma frequency must be above 30 MHz. During both day and night Es conditions, the dense structures are observed to be arranged in propagating fronts, and travel at speeds of 70–100 m/s. We also present observations that reveal quasi‐periodic amplitude oscillations with frequencies consistent with atmospheric gravity waves and acoustic waves.