bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computation and visualization of cell–cell signaling topologies in single-cell systems data using Connectome
Authors: Raredon Micha Sam Brickman , Yang Junchen , Garritano James , Wang Meng , Kushnir Dan , Schupp Jonas Christian , Adams Taylor S. , Greaney Allison M. , Leiby Katherine L. , Kaminski Naftali , Kluger Yuval , Levchenko Andre , Niklason Laura E.
Published: March 2022

Single-cell RNA-sequencing data has revolutionized our ability to understand of the patterns of cell–cell and ligand–receptor connectivity that influence the function of tissues and organs. However, the quantification and visualization of these patterns in a way that informs tissue biology are major computational and epistemological challenges. Here, we present Connectome, a software package for R which facilitates rapid calculation and interactive exploration of cell–cell signaling network topologies contained in single-cell RNA-sequencing data. Connectome can be used with any reference set of known ligand–receptor mechanisms. It has built-in functionality to facilitate differential and comparative connectomics, in which signaling networks are compared between tissue systems. Connectome focuses on computational and graphical tools designed to analyze and explore cell–cell connectivity patterns across disparate single-cell datasets and reveal biologic insight. We present approaches to quantify focused network topologies and discuss some of the biologic theory leading to their design.
Amplitude setting and dopamine response of finger tapping and gait are related in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Syeda Hafsa Bareen , Glover Aliyah , Pillai Lakshmi , Kemp Aaron S. , Spencer Horace , Lotia Mitesh , Larson-Prior Linda J. , Virmani Tuhin
Published: March 2022

Movement amplitude setting is affected early in Parkinson’s disease (PD), clinically manifesting as bradykinesia. Our objective was to determine if amplitude setting of upper limb bimanual movements and bipedal gait are similarly modulated in PD. 27 PD and 24 control participants were enrolled. Participants performed a bimanual anti-phase finger tapping task wearing gloves with joint angular sensors, and an instrumented gait assessment. Participants performed normal and fast paced assessments to vary motor load. PD participants were evaluated OFF (PD-OFF) and ON (PD-ON) levodopa. PD-OFF participants had smaller tap amplitude, and greater tap amplitude variability than controls in the more affected hands (all p < 0.05). Tap amplitude and stride length (p = 0.030) were correlated in PD-OFF. Tap amplitude was also correlated with motor UPDRS (p < 0.005) and bradykinesia motor (p < 0.05) and ADL (p < 0.005) UPDRS subscores. The relative amount of improvement in tap amplitude and stride length with levodopa was correlated. In PD, upper limb and gait amplitude setting are similarly scaled with motor demand and dopamine supplementation. This suggests these automated motor functions are subserved by common functional networks.
Genomic epidemiology of Streptococcus agalactiae ST283 in Southeast Asia
Authors: Aiewsakun Pakorn , Ruangchai Wuthiwat , Thawornwattana Yuttapong , Jaemsai Bharkbhoom , Mahasirimongkol Surakameth , Homkaew Anchalee , Suksomchit Paveesuda , Dubbs Padungsri , Palittapongarnpim Prasit
Published: March 2022

Streptococcus agalactiae, also known as Lancefield Group BStreptococcus(GBS), is typically regarded as a neonatal pathogen; however, several studies have shown that the bacteria are capable of causing invasive diseases in non-pregnant adults as well. The majority of documented cases were from Southeast Asian countries, and the most common genotype found was ST283, which is also known to be able to infect fish. This study sequenced 12 GBS ST283 samples collected from adult patients in Thailand. Together with publicly available sequences, we performed temporo-spatial analysis and estimated population dynamics of the bacteria. Putative drug resistance genes were also identified and characterized, and the drug resistance phenotypes were validated experimentally. The results, together with historical records, draw a detailed picture of the past transmission history of GBS ST283 in Southeast Asia.
Systematic palynology in Korean Piperales with special focus on its exine surface ornamentation and orbicule morphology
Authors: Oak Min-Kyeong , Yang Sungyu , Choi Goya , Song Jun-Ho
Published: March 2022

The pollen and orbicule morphology of the Korean Piperales (Aristolochia, Asarum, Houttuynia, Piper, and Saururus) were investigated via scanning electron microscopy. Piperales pollen is a monad, its size ranging from very small to large (P = 7.78–51.4 μm, E = 6.68–43.1 μm), and having a mainly circular to sub-circular shape. The aperture type is constant in the genus [inaperturate (Aristolochia), tri to pentaporate (Asarum), and monosulcate (Houttuynia, Piper, and Saururus)]. There are four distinct types of exine ornamentation: Fossulate with perforate, microreticulate with gemmae, microperforate with granula, and microechinate. The orbicules (minute sporopollenin granules) were observed in all studied taxa and thus, may be a possible symplesiomorphic characteristic of Piperales. Further, the observed orbicule surface ornamentation was similar to pollen exine patterns, for example muri, gemmae, or granula. This resemblance between orbicule and pollen exine ornamentation may imply a similar biosynthesis pattern of sporopollenin of pollen exine and orbicules. The phenogram resulting from a cluster analysis using palynological characters was generally consistent with the known molecular phylogeny of Piperales. This initial study will help understand the palynological diversity and provide detailed information of pollen and orbicule characteristics in Piperales.
Therapeutic routine with respiratory exercises improves posture, muscle activity, and respiratory pattern of patients with neck pain: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dareh-deh Hamid Rezaee , Hadadnezhad Malihe , Letafatkar Amir , Peolsson Anneli
Published: March 2022

Neck pain and forward head posture (FHP) are typical in prolonged smartphone users and need to be targeted for treatment. We aimed to compare the effect of a routine therapeutic program with and without respiratory exercises on smartphone users with FHP and non-specific chronic neck pain (NSCNP). Sixty patients (aged 24.7 ± 2.1 years) with FHP and NSCNP were randomly assigned to the routine therapeutic program (n = 20), combined respiratory exercises with a routine therapeutic program (n = 20), or control (n = 20) groups. At baseline, there was no difference among groups at all variables. Each programme was implemented three times a week for eight weeks. Primary Outcome was pain measured by visual analogue scale (VAS), and secondary ones were forward head angle, the activity of specific muscles, and respiratory patterns, measured by photogrammetry, electromyography and manual, respectively. All outcomes were measured at baseline and eight weeks post-treatment. We used the repeated measures analysis of variance to examine the interaction between time and group, paired t-test for intragroup comparison, one-way analysis of variance for intergroup comparison, and Tukey post hoc test at a significant level 95% was used. There were significant differences in the combined group compared with the routine therapeutic group (P = 0.03) for diaphragm muscle activation, respiratory balance (P = 0.01), and the number of breaths (P = 0.02). There were significant within-group changes from baseline to post-treatment in the combined group for all outcomes above, but no changes in the therapeutic exercise routine group. Despite respiratory pattern, none of the secondary outcomes proved to be superior in the combination group compared to the routine therapeutic program in smartphone users with FHP and NSCNP. Future studies with longer follow-up assessments could strengthen these results.

Trial registration: Current Controlled Trials using the IRCT website with ID number of, IRCT20200212046469N1 “Prospectively registered” at 04/03/2020.
A reduced SNP panel to trace gene flow across southern European wolf populations and detect hybridization with other Canis taxa
Authors: Stronen Astrid Vik , Mattucci Federica , Fabbri Elena , Galaverni Marco , Cocchiararo Berardino , Nowak Carsten , Godinho Raquel , Ruiz-González Aritz , Kusak Josip , Skrbinšek Tomaž , Randi Ettore , Vlasseva Albena , Mucci Nadia , Caniglia Romolo
Published: March 2022

Intra- and inter-specific gene flow are natural evolutionary processes. However, human-induced hybridization is a global conservation concern across taxa, and the development of discriminant genetic markers to differentiate among gene flow processes is essential. Wolves (Canis lupus) are affected by hybridization, particularly in southern Europe, where ongoing recolonization of historic ranges is augmenting gene flow among divergent populations. Our aim was to provide diagnostic canid markers focused on the long-divergent Iberian, Italian and Dinaric wolf populations, based on existing genomic resources. We used 158 canid samples to select a panel of highly informative single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to (i) distinguish wolves in the three regions from domestic dogs (C. l. familiaris) and golden jackals (C. aureus), and (ii) identify their first two hybrid generations. The resulting 192 SNPs correctly identified the five canid groups, all simulated first-generation (F1) hybrids (0.482 ≤ Qi ≤ 0.512 between their respective parental groups) and all first backcross (BC1) individuals (0.723 ≤ Qi ≤ 0.827 to parental groups). An assay design and test with invasive and non-invasive canid samples performed successfully for 178 SNPs. By separating natural population admixture from inter-specific hybridization, our reduced panel can help advance evolutionary research, monitoring, and timely conservation management.
Association of retinopathy severity with cardiovascular and renal outcomes in patients with type 1 diabetes: a multi-state modeling analysis
Authors: Wang Wei-Ming , Ou Huang-Tz , Wen Miin-Jye , Su Pei-Fang , Yang Chen-Yi , Kuo Te-Hui , Wang Ming-Cheng , Lin Wei-Hung
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to assess the impact of diabetic retinopathy (DR) severity on the incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in T1D patients. Patients diagnosed with T1D between 1999 and 2013 were identified from patient-level data of Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research database. A total of 1135 patients were included and classified into mild DR (n = 454), severe DR (n = 227), or non-DR (n = 454) by using propensity score matching. Multi-state model analyses, an extension of competing risk models with adjustment for transition-specific covariates for prediction of subsequent MACE and ESRD, were performed. MACE and ESRD risks were significantly higher in the severe DR patients; a 2.97-fold (1.73, 5.07) and 12.29-fold (6.50, 23.23) increase in the MACE risk among the severe DR patients compared to the mild DR and DR-free patients, respectively; and, a 5.91-fold (3.50, 9.99) and 82.31-fold (29.07, 233.04) greater ESRD risk of severe DR patients than that of the mild DR and DR-free groups, respectively (p < 0.001). Severity of DR was significantly associated with the late diabetes-related vascular events (i.e., MACE, ESRD) among T1D patients.
Comparative analysis of four complete mitogenomes from hoverfly genus Eristalinus with phylogenetic implications
Authors: Li Hu , Li Juan
Published: March 2022

The genus Eristalinus is widely distributed globally. Four complete mitochondrial genomes (i.e., mitogenomes) of Eristalinus were sequenced and analyzed in this study: Eristalinus viridis (Coquillett, 1898), E. quinquestriatus (Fabricius, 1781), E. tarsalis (Macquart, 1855), and E. sp. Within these four sequenced mitogenomes, most protein-coding genes (ND2, CO1, COX2, COX3, ND3, ND5, ND4, ND4L, ND6, and Cytb) began with a typical ATN (T/C/G/A) start codon and ended with a stop codon TAA or incomplete T, whereas ND1 began with the start codon TTG. ND3 ended with TAG. The secondary tRNA structure was that of a typical cloverleaf, and only the tRNA-Ser1 lacked a DHU arm. Three and five domains appeared in the 12S and 16S rRNA secondary structures, respectively. The phylogenetic relationships among the four Eristalinus species combined with the published mitogenomes of Syrphidae were reconstructed using the maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods, which support the monophyly of the subfamily Syrphinae but do not support that of the subfamily Eristalinae. Of note, Eristalini and Syrphini are monophyletic groups. The mitogenomes of E. viridis, E. quinquestriatus, E. sp., and E. tarsalis are useful for determining the phylogenetic relationships and evolution of Syrphidae.
MicroRNA-155 expression with Brucella infection in vitro and in vivo and decreased serum levels of MicroRNA-155 in patients with brucellosis
Authors: Zhang Xi , Chen Jingjing , Cheng Huimin , Zhu Jinying , Dong Qiao , Zhang Huan , Chen Zeliang
Published: March 2022

Infection with Brucella is characterized by the inhibition of host immune responses. MicroRNA-155 (miR-155) has been implicated in the immune response to many diseases. In this study, its expression during Brucella 16M infection of macrophages and mice was analyzed. Expression of miR-155 was significantly induced in macrophages at 24 h post infection. Further, an analysis of infected mice showed that miR-155 was inhibited at 7 and 14 days but induced at 28 days. Interestingly, this trend in induction or inhibition was reversed at 7 and 14 days in 16M△virB-infected mice. This suggested that decreased expression of miR-155 at an early stage of infection was dependent on intracellular replication. In humans with brucellosis, serum levels of miR-155 were significantly decreased compared to those in individuals without brucellosis and healthy volunteers. Significant correlations were observed between serum level of miR-155 and serum anti-Brucella antibody titers and the sweating symptom. This effect suggests that Brucella interferes with miR-155-regulated immune responses via a unique mechanism. Taken together, data from this study indicate that Brucella infection affects miR-155 expression and that human brucellosis patients show decreased serum levels of miR-155.
Automated analysis of activity, sleep, and rhythmic behaviour in various animal species with the Rtivity software
Authors: Silva Rui F. O. , Pinho Brígida R. , Monteiro Nuno M. , Santos Miguel M. , Oliveira Jorge M. A.
Published: March 2022

Behavioural studies provide insights into normal and disrupted biological mechanisms. In many research areas, a growing spectrum of animal models—particularly small organisms—is used for high-throughput studies with infrared-based activity monitors, generating counts per time data. The freely available software to analyse such data, however, are primarily optimized for drosophila and circadian analysis. Researchers investigating other species or non-circadian behaviour would thus benefit from a more versatile software. Here we report the development of a free and open-source software—Rtivity—allowing customisation of species-specific parameters, and offering a versatile analysis of behavioural patterns, biological rhythms, stimulus responses, and survival. Rtivity is based on the R language and uses Shiny and the recently developed Rethomics package for a user-friendly graphical interface without requiring coding skills. Rtivity automatically assesses survival, computes various activity, sleep, and rhythmicity parameters, and performs fractal analysis of activity fluctuations. Rtivity generates multiple informative graphs, and exports structured data for efficient interoperability with common statistical software. In summary, Rtivity facilitates and enhances the versatility of the behavioural analysis of diverse animal species (e.g. drosophila, zebrafish, daphnia, ants). It is thus suitable for a broad range of researchers from multidisciplinary fields such as ecology, neurobiology, toxicology, and pharmacology.
Florida’s urban stormwater ponds are net sources of carbon to the atmosphere despite increased carbon burial over time
Authors: Goeckner Audrey H. , Lusk Mary G. , Reisinger Alexander J. , Hosen Jacob D. , Smoak Joseph M.
Published: March 2022

Stormwater ponds are engineered ecosystems designed for flood control and sediment retention in urban watersheds. They are the most commonly used stormwater control measure in the USA, but their biogeochemical processes and impacts are often overlooked. Here, we assessed the potential impact of stormwater ponds on regional carbon cycling by coupling carbon burial rates and fluxes of carbon dioxide and methane gases in five sites over an age gradient of 14–34 years. Carbon burial increased logarithmically with site age, ranging from 22 to 217 g carbon m−2y−1, while, median floating chamber diffusive gas fluxes were 1290 g carbon dioxide m−2y−1and 5 g methane m−2y−1, which, when combined as carbon dioxide equivalents, equates to 2900 g carbon dioxide eq m−2y−1. Comparing carbon burial to gas flux reveals that stormwater ponds can be net carbon sources and need to be considered for regional and global carbon models.
Tuning La2O3 to high ionic conductivity by Ni-doping
Authors: Wang Faze , Hu Enyi , Wang Jun , Yu Lei , Hong Soonpa , Kim Jung-Sik , Zhu Bin
Published: March 2022

Ultra-wide band gap semiconductor La2O3 is tuned into a high ionic conductivity material via Ni-doping. The energetic properties are studied experimentally and theoretically. Schottky junction is proposed to interpret the avoidance of short circuits.
Towards solvent regulated self-activation of N-terminal disulfide bond oxidoreductase-D
Authors: Nair Aparna G , Perumalla D. Sravanakumar , Anjukandi Padmesh
Published: March 2022

An alternative mechanism for disulfide bond cleavage in nDsbDOxviaan internal nucleophile (Tyr42O−) and its stabilization through water network is investigated and captured.
Hybrid iron(ii) phthalocyaninatoclathrochelates with a terminal reactive vinyl group and their organo-inorganic polymeric derivatives: synthetic approaches, X-ray structures and copolymerization with styrene
Authors: Dudkin Semyon V. , Chuprin Alexander S. , Belova Svetlana A. , Vologzhanina Anna V. , Zubavichus Yan V. , Kaletina Polina M. , Shundrina Inna K. , Bagryanskaya Elena G. , Voloshin Yan Z.
Published: March 2022

Hybrid iron(ii) (semi)clathrochelates with non-equivalent apical fragments and functionalized with one terminal reactive vinyl group were prepared and were found to be successfully copolymerized with styrene.
Predicting core electron binding energies in elements of the first transition series using the Δ-self-consistent-field method
Authors: Kahk J. Matthias , Lischner Johannes
Published: March 2022

We have used the ΔSCF method for calculating TM 2p3/2 core electron binding energies in compounds of first row transition metals. After correcting for element dependent systematic errors, the MAE of the calculated binding energies is just 0.20 eV.
Bioaccessibility, gut microbial metabolism and intestinal transport of phenolics from 100% Concord grape juice and whole grapes are similar in a simulated digestion and fecal fermentation model
Authors: Mohamedshah Zulfiqar , Hayes Micaela , Chadwick-Corbin Sydney , Neilson Andrew P. , Ferruzzi Mario G.
Published: March 2022

Phenolic rich 100% grape juice has been associated with many health benefits, but its place in dietary guidance is controversial relative to whole fruit.
Nutraceutical potential of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) extracts: physicochemical stability and bioaccessibility of cannabidiol (CBD) nanoemulsions
Authors: Zheng Huijuan , Chen Bingcan , Rao Jiajia
Published: March 2022

Preparation, physicochemical stability, and in vitro digestion of cannabidiol nanoemulsions.
β-Aldehyde ketones as dual inhibitors of aldose reductase and α-glucosidase with antioxidant properties
Authors: Zhang Xiaonan , Chen Huan , Zhang Xin , Xu Long , Lei Yanqi , Liu Wenchao , Li Lingyun , Xu Hulin , Zhu Changjin , Ma Bing
Published: March 2022

The synthesized β-aldehyde ketone compounds have strong biological activity because of their ionizable hydroxyl groups.
Discovery of varlaxins, new aeruginosin-type inhibitors of human trypsins
Authors: Heinilä L. M. P. , Jokela J. , Ahmed M. N. , Wahlsten M. , Kumar S. , Hrouzek P. , Permi P. , Koistinen H. , Fewer D. P. , Sivonen K.
Published: March 2022

Low-molecular weight natural products display vast structural diversity and have played a key role in the development of novel therapeutics.
Arsenic(iii) removal from aqueous solution using TiO2-loaded biochar prepared by waste Chinese traditional medicine dregs
Authors: Yang Yan , Zhang Ruixue , Chen Shiwan , Zhu Jian , Wu Pan , Huang Jiayan , Qi Shihua
Published: March 2022

TiO2-loaded biochar prepared by waste Chinese traditional medicine dregs (TBC) was applied in remediation for As(iii) from aqueous solution.
Oxindole synthesis via polar–radical crossover of ketene-derived amide enolates in a formal [3 + 2] cycloaddition
Authors: Radhoff Niklas , Studer Armido
Published: March 2022

Herein we introduce a simple, efficient and transition-metal free method for the preparation of valuable and sterically hindered 3,3-disubstituted oxindoles via polar–radical crossover of ketene derived amide enolates.
Facile synthesis of Ag-niobium ditelluride nanocomposites for the molecular fingerprint analysis of muscle tissues
Authors: Zhang Xiaoying , Wang Xin , Wang Peng , Fu Qiuyue , Zhu Zhaozhen , Luo Chaocai , Chen Jieyi , Zhang Yanjiao , Li Shaoxin
Published: March 2022

Ag-niobium ditelluride (NbTe2) nanocomposites displaying outstanding SERS activity originating from the cooperative effect of electromagnetic and chemical mechanisms can be utilized for the molecular fingerprint analysis of muscle tissues.
A phosphorescent OLED with an efficiency roll-off lower than 1% at 10 000 cd m−2 achieved by reducing the carrier mobility of the donors in an exciplex co-host system
Authors: Chiu Chun-Hao , Amin Nurul Ridho Al , Xie Jia-Xun , Lee Chih-Chien , Luo Dian , Biring Sajal , Sutanto Kevin , Liu Shun-Wei , Chen Chih-Hsin
Published: March 2022

A phosphorescent OLED with an external quantum efficiency of 22.31% and an extremely low efficiency roll-off of 0.67% at 10 000 cd m−2 was achieved by reducing the carrier mobility of the donors in an exciplex co-host system.
HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis adherence test using reverse transcription isothermal amplification inhibition assay
Authors: Zhang Jane Y. , Zhang Yu , Bender Andrew T. , Sullivan Benjamin P. , Olanrewaju Ayokunle O. , Lillis Lorraine , Boyle David , Drain Paul K. , Posner Jonathan D.
Published: March 2022

We report on a probabilistic isothermal nucleic acid amplification assay for measuring a common medication in HIV prevention and treatment. Expanded access to routine HIV drug adherence testing is a crucial tool in improving the HIV care continuum.
Programmable iodization/deuterolysis sequences of phosphonium ylides to access deuterated benzyl iodides and aromatic aldehydes
Authors: Zheng Yu , He Xian-Chen , Gao Jie , Xie Zhen-Zhen , Wang Zhi-Wei , Liu Zhi-Lin , Chen Kai , Xiang Hao-Yue , Chen Xiao-Qing , Yang Hua
Published: March 2022

Herein, a tunable iodization/deuterolysis protocol for phosphonium ylides by employing D2O as the deuterium source was designed.
Metallation of sensitive fluoroarenes using a potassium TMP-zincate supported by a silyl(bis)amido ligand
Authors: Mastropierro Pasquale , Kennedy Alan R. , Hevia Eva
Published: March 2022

Providing unique structural insights, regioselective zincation of a range of fluoroarenes has been accomplished using a novel heterobimetallic K/Zn amide base.
Tethered photocatalyst-directed palladium-catalysed C–H allenylation of N-aryl tetrahydroisoquinolines
Authors: Li Mingfeng , Chia Xiu Li , Zhu Ye
Published: March 2022

We realised a new control strategy for Pd-catalysed C–H allenylation through engineering covalently tethered transition metal–photocatalysts.
Investigation of the molecular and mechanistic basis for the regioselective metabolism of midazolam by cytochrome P450 3A4
Authors: Fu Tingting , Zheng Qingchuan , Zhang Hongxing
Published: March 2022

The molecular mechanism of the regioselective metabolism of midazolam by CYP3A4.
Synergistically modified WS2@PANI binary nanocomposite-based all-solid-state symmetric supercapacitor with high energy density
Authors: Iqbal Muzahir , Saykar Nilesh G. , Alegaonkar Prashant S. , Mahapatra Santosh K.
Published: March 2022

WS2@PANI nanocomposite prepared by hydrothermal and physical blending method shows remarkably high specific capacitance and energy density while retaining excellent cyclic stability.
Photoisomerizable azobenzene star-shaped liquid crystals: bypassing the absence of hydrogen bonding
Authors: Santos Gustavo Sérgio dos , Westphal Eduard
Published: March 2022

Effective molecular tailoring results in star-shaped azo compounds that self-assemble with hexagonal columnar packing and show fast and reversible photoisomerization.
Ultra-stable potassium storage and hybrid mechanism of perovskite fluoride KFeF3/rGO
Authors: Wang Shuo , Chen Fei , Zhang Li-ming , Li Yi-xuan , Ren Nai-qing , Cao Kuo , Xiao Jing-chao , Chen Chun-hua
Published: March 2022

Combining rGO composite and carbon coating strategies, the nano-KFeF3 presents excellent rate property and ultra-stable cycle performance. The reaction mechanism of nano-KFeF3 consists of mainly solid solution and partly conversion processes.
Arylopeptoid oligomers functionalised by combinatorial or sequential on-resin click chemistry using a copper(i)–N-heterocyclic carbene catalyst
Authors: Akhdar Ayman , Faure Sophie , Gautier Arnaud
Published: March 2022

An efficient on-resin click chemistry protocol using a stable copper(i)–N-heterocyclic carbene catalyst is developed for post-functionalization ofN-alkylated aminomethylbenzamide oligomers (arylopeptoids).
Efficacy of surface-functionalized Mg1−xCoxFe2O4(0 ≤x≤ 1; Δx= 0.1) for hyperthermia andin vivoMR imaging as a contrast agent
Authors: Islam M. Aminul , Hasan M. Razibul , Haque M. Mahbubabl , Rashid Rimi , Syed Ishtiaque M. , Hoque S. Manjura
Published: March 2022

Surface-functionalized Mg1−xCoxFe2O4(0 ≤x≤ 1; Δx= 0.1) can be an exciting candidate as an MRI contrast agent and for thermotherapeutic applications.
An efficient factor for fast screening of high-performance two-dimensional metal–organic frameworks towards catalyzing the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Hai Guangtong , Gao Hongyi , Huang Xiubing , Tan Li , Xue Xiangdong , Feng Shihao , Wang Ge
Published: March 2022

Two-dimensional (2D) metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising materials for catalyzing the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) due to their abundant exposed active sites and high specific surface area.
Supramolecular biomaterials for enhanced cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Zhang Han , Zhu Jiafei , Fang Tianxu , Li Meng , Chen Guojun , Chen Qian
Published: March 2022

Supramolecular self-assembly offers the possibility for modulating nanostructures and reprogramming immunological properties, paving the way for enhanced cancer immunotherapy.
High-efficiency red photoluminescence achieved by antimony doping in organic–inorganic halide (C11H24N2)2[InBr6][InBr4]
Authors: Lin Jiawei , Guo Zhongnan , Sun Niu , Liu Kunjie , Chen Xin , Zhao Jing , Liu Quanlin , Yuan Wenxia
Published: March 2022

We report a new 0D lead-free halide with both [InBr6]3− octahedra and [InBr4]− tetrahedra as inorganic units. High-efficiency red photoluminescence can be achieved via Sb doping in this emissive material with a PLQY of 61%.
Early Speech Sound Production and Its Trajectories in Very Preterm Children From 2 to 4 Years of Age
Authors: van Noort-van der Spek Inge L. , Dudink Jeroen , Reiss Irwin K. , Franken Marie-Christine J. P.
Published: March 2022

Purpose:

Very preterm (VPT) children are at risk for speech and language problems throughout school age. However, little is known about early speech sound production in these children. This study aims to present a detailed description of early speech sound production and its trajectories in VPT children from 2 to 4 years of age. In addition, this study aimed to determine if early speech sound production is associated with speech production and expressive language function at 4 years of age.

Method:

In 63 VPT children (< 32 weeks of gestation, 41 boys, mean gestational age = 28.8 weeks, mean birth weight = 1,135 g), speech sound production was assessed by naturalistic speech analysis at 2 years of corrected age and speech and language function by standardized tests at 4 years of age.

Results:

Speech sound production was found to be abnormal in 49% of the VPT children at 2 years of age and in 19% at 4 years of age. Four different speech production trajectories from 2 to 4 years of age could be identified: a normal trajectory, an abnormal trajectory, a catch-up trajectory, and a growing-into-deficit trajectory. Early speech production, defined by the number of acquired consonants at 2 years of age, significantly predicted the word production score at 4 years of age and the sentence production score at 4 years of age.

Conclusions:

Compared to the general population, an alarmingly high proportion of VPT children showed speech production problems at 2 years of age. About half of these children showed persistent speech problems at 4 years of age. Moreover, these problems were associated with expressive language problems at the age of 4 years.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.19310822
A Letter to the Editor Regarding Bambara et al. (2021), “Using Peer Supports to Encourage Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder to Show Interest in Their Conversation Partners”
Authors: Keates Nathan
Published: March 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of this letter is to address interpretations regarding Bambara et al.'s (2021) study and help resolve potential for further missteps within this line of research.

Conclusion:

There is clear value in teaching skills that are wanted by autistic people. The primary issue within the article is that it does not acknowledge the double empathy problem and is constructed based on only a neurotypical system of interpretation or communication style. What is being promoted is to address skills autistic participants request.
An effective method for determination and characteristic analysis of induction motor parameters
Authors: Chen Haixu , Bi Chao
Published: March 2022

Due to its unique and attractive characteristics, the induction motor (IM) has been widely used for years. How to design an IM with desired characteristics and how to realise high performance control for a given IM, these have always been hot research topics to many researchers. No matter what control technology is used to achieve high‐performance drive of IM, it depends on in‐depth understanding of motor parametric characteristics and their accurate acquisition. An effective determination method is proposed to improve the parameter accuracies of the equivalent circuit for induction motors by combining non‐rotor test with dual‐load test and using this method to measure and analyse the parametric characteristics of IM. Experimental validations are carried out on two induction motors with open‐slot rotor and closed‐slot rotor, respectively. Compared with the traditional methods, the proposed method has higher accuracy and can be an effective tool for design, control, and testing research of IM.
Novel micro‐capsule‐doped insulating material with hydrophobicity transfer capability triggered by creepage discharge
Authors: Li Mingzhe , Cao Bin , Liu Yuhao , Wang Liming
Published: March 2022

The lack of hydrophobicity transfer capability has restricted the applications of insulating materials in environments with heavy contamination. In this study, an epoxy resin insulating composite was prepared using a micro‐capsule system to achieve hydrophobicity transfer triggered by creepage discharge. The influence of the micro‐capsules on the electrical properties of insulating materials and the hydrophobicity of the test samples before and after the creepage discharge test was analysed. The results show that the poly(urea‐formaldehyde) micro‐capsules, which contained hydrogen silicone oil, have good morphology and thermal stability characteristics at temperatures below 222°C. Micro‐capsules have minor effects on the electrical properties of epoxy insulating materials. Further, the hydrophobicity transfer capability of the test piece was improved considerably compared with that of the pure epoxy insulating material. This study expands the application of micro‐capsule technology in the field of insulating materials and provides a reference for the development of next‐generation insulating materials.
Finite time observer‐based super‐twisting sliding mode control for vehicle platoons with guaranteed strong string stability
Authors: Chen Qian , Xu Long , Zhou Yang , Li Shihua
Published: March 2022

This paper presents a finite time disturbance observer (FTDO)‐based super‐twisting sliding mode control (SMC) structure for a vehicle platoon system with a focus on parameter uncertainties as well as external disturbances. In order to compensate the parameter uncertainties and external disturbances, a composite FTDO‐based super twisting SMC method is developed under zero initial spacing deviations, where the parameter uncertainties, external disturbances, and the preceding vehicle's acceleration are estimated as a lumped disturbance by employing an FTDO. Benefiting from the FTDO, the estimation error dynamics is stable in finite time. Different from the existing SMC‐based achievements, the continuity of the control signals can be achieved, which avoids the undesirable chattering phenomenon in the existing SMC‐based works. Leveraging an FTDO, the preceding vehicle's acceleration information is not required, which enables the proposed control method to exploit a unidirectional information flow topology. Thus, it can reduce communication burden compared with bidirectional information flow topologies. Then, an improved time gap policy is employed to extend the developed control scheme to a more general case with nonzero initial spacing deviations. In addition, the individual stability of each vehicle is rigorously analyzed by resorting to the Lyapunov stability theory. Furthermore, the strong string stability of the whole vehicle platoon is derived with the help of the Laplace transform. Finally, numerical simulations are conducted to illustrate the effectiveness and applicability of the developed control scheme.
A computationally efficient hybrid optimization‐based model predictive control for inductive power transfer systems
Authors: Cao Lingling , Sun Wenying , He Junping , Loo Ka‐Hong
Published: March 2022

Model predictive control (MPC) has been actively researched in recent years for power electronics applications due to its intuitive concept, flexibility, and superior dynamic performance. However, current research on MPC for inductive power transfer (IPT) systems is rather limited. Several emerging applications such as dynamic electric vehicle charging, vehicle‐to‐grid services, and ad hoc power transfer between mobile devices require IPT systems to possess fast dynamic response characteristic. Here, a new MPC method based on computationally efficient hybrid optimization scheme is proposed to meet the needs of these applications. The proposed MPC method adaptively selects the moving discretized control set‐based optimization or the newly proposed group‐based optimization under different system's states to minimize the number of iterations required for determining the optimum control variable, thus offering the advantage of low computational burden. The paper also proposes a new prediction error compensation scheme that effectively improves the control accuracy of the proposed MPC method. All the proposed works are experimentally verified on a laboratory prototype.
Bernoulli track‐before‐detect smoothing for maritime radar
Authors: Ristic Branko , Guan Robin , Kim Du Yong , Rosenberg Luke
Published: March 2022

Detection and tracking of small targets in sea clutter using a high‐resolution radar is a challenging problem as the sea surface constantly moves in a complex manner, with rough seas creating strong target‐like returns. Recently, a Bernoulli track‐before‐detect (TBD) filter has been developed for an airborne scanning radar in the maritime domain. Its purpose is to detect and track short‐exposure targets by using the radar in a fast scanning mode. The current paper investigates the potential improvement in detection and tracking performance of the Bernoulli TBD filter by incorporating a backward smoothing step. The developed algorithm, referred to as the Bernoulli TBD forward‐backward smoother (FBS) for maritime radar, is making a delayed decision by taking into account multiple future scans of radar data. A numerical analysis of a joint detection and tracking error with a fixed‐lag smoothing is presented, as a function of the number of delay lags, signal‐to‐interference ratio and the sea clutter spikiness.
Large Interferometer For Exoplanets (LIFE)
Authors: Konrad B. S. , Alei E. , Quanz S. P. , Angerhausen D. , Carrión-González Ó. , Fortney J. J. , Grenfell J. L. , Kitzmann D. , Mollière P. , Rugheimer S. , Wunderlich F. ,   the LIFE Collaboration
Published: March 2022

Context.Temperate terrestrial exoplanets are likely to be common objects, but their discovery and characterization is very challenging because of the small intrinsic signal compared to that of their host star. Various concepts for optimized space missions to overcome these challenges are currently being studied. The Large Interferometer For Exoplanets (LIFE) initiative focuses on the development of a spacebased mid-infrared (MIR) nulling interferometer probing the thermal emission of a large sample of exoplanets.

Aims.This study derives the minimum requirements for the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N), the spectral resolution (R), and the wavelength coverage for the LIFE mission concept. Using an Earth-twin exoplanet as a reference case, we quantify how well planetary and atmospheric properties can be derived from its MIR thermal emission spectrum as a function of the wavelength range,S/N,andR.

Methods.We combined a cloud-free 1D atmospheric radiative transfer model, a noise model for observations with the LIFE interferometer, and the nested sampling algorithm for Bayesian parameter inference to retrieve planetary and atmospheric properties. We simulated observations of an Earth-twin exoplanet orbiting a G2V star at 10 pc from the Sun with different levels of exozodiacal dust emissions. We investigated a grid of wavelength ranges (3–20 μm, 4–18.5 μm, and 6–17 μm),S/Ns(5, 10, 15, and 20 determined at a wavelength of 11.2 μm), andRs (20, 35, 50, and 100).

Results.We find that H2O, CO2, and O3are detectable ifS/N ≥10 (uncertainty ≤ ± 1.0 dex). We find upper limits for N2O (abundance ≲10−3). In conrtrast, CO, N2, and O2are unconstrained. The lower limits for a CH4detection areR= 50 andS/N= 10. Our retrieval framework correctly determines the exoplanet’s radius (uncertainty ≤ ± 10%), surface temperature (uncertainty ≤ ± 20 K), and surface pressure (uncertainty ≤ ± 0.5 dex) in all cloud-free retrieval analyses. Based on our current assumptions, the observation time required to reach the specifiedS/Nfor an Earth-twin at 10 pc when conservatively assuming a total instrument throughput of 5% amounts to ≈6−7 weeks with four 2m apertures.

Conclusions.We provide first order estimates for the minimum technical requirements for LIFE via the retrieval study of an Earth-twin exoplanet. We conclude that a minimum wavelength coverage of 4–18.5 μm, anRof 50, and anS/Nof at least 10 is required. With the current assumptions, the atmospheric characterization of several Earth-like exoplanets at a distance of 10 pc and within a reasonable amount of observing time will require apertures ≥ 2m.
Prediction of Fetal Biliary Atresia Based on Second and Third-Trimester Ultrasound Characteristics
Authors: Zeng Kaihui , Yang Zeyu , Chen Lizhu , Sun Wie , Wang Yu , Chen Changyu , Cai Ailu
Published: March 2022

Objective To explore the diagnostic performance of prenatal ultrasound in the prediction of biliary atresia (BA).

Methods We prospectively collected cases of suspected biliary abnormalities in the 2nd trimester of pregnancy and performed a series (at least 3) of prenatal ultrasound examinations in the 2nd and 3rd trimester. The presence of the gallbladder was examined each time, and its size and shape were assessed if the gallbladder was visible. The existence of other abnormalities was carefully evaluated. Neonatal ultrasound examination was conducted within 1 month after birth, and clinical data were followed-up for 6 months after birth.

Results Among the 41 895 patients, 298 were suspected to have biliary abnormalities, while 82 patients were excluded due to loss to follow-up or induced labor caused by other abnormalities. A total of 216 patients were included in this study, and 15 were diagnosed with BA. We summarized the ultrasound findings of the gallbladders and defined a high-risk gallbladder for the prenatal diagnosis of BA. This was demonstrated to have the best diagnostic performance as a single parameter, with an area under the curve of 0.914 (95 %CI: 0.869–0.948). In addition, higher incidences of biliary cysts, right hepatic artery dilation, echogenic bowel, and ascites were observed in BA fetuses. Logistic regression analysis showed that the combination of 5 parameters had better diagnostic performance, with an area under the curve of 0.995 (95 %CI: 0.973–0.999).

Conclusion The fetal gallbladder was found to be a critical feature for the identification of BA. Concomitant abnormalities could be helpful to improve the accuracy of the diagnosis.
The Endoscopic Anatomy of the External Acoustic Meatus and of the Middle Ear in Dry Temporal Bones: A Study Conducted Using Digital and Mobile Device Technology
Authors: Gaspar-Sobrinho Fernando P. , Trzan Aline L. S. , Uzeda Sandra de Q. , Nogueira Joao Flavio
Published: March 2022

Introduction The endoscopic anatomy of the middle ear (ME) and of the external acoustic meatus (EAM) has been described in cadavers, in fresh temporal bones, or in vivo using conventional video recording, but not in dry bones or using an alternative inspection and recording technique.

Objective To study the anatomy of the ME and of the EAM in dry temporal bones using a smartphone-endoscope system.

Methods The EAM and the ME were studied in dry temporal bones using an endoscopic transcanal approach with a telescope connected to a smartphone (M-scope mobile endoscope app and adaptador, GBEF Telefonia, São Paulo, SP, Brazil).

Results Out of 50 specimens, 2 had exostosis of the EAM and 3 contained remains of the tympanic membrane. The anterior wall of the EAM was prominent in 10/48 specimens (20.8%). Ossicles were seen in 13/45 (28.8%), stapes at the oval window were seen in 12/45 (26.6%), and the incus was seen in 1/45 (2.2%) specimens. The facial canal was open and protruding in 15/45 (33.3%) and in 7/45 (15.5%) specimens, respectively. Of the 45 MEs evaluated, type A was predominant for finiculus (93.3%), subiculum (100%), and ponticulus (95.6%). The rest were type B. None was classified as type C. According to its position in relation to the round window, the fustis was classified into type A (68.9%) or B (31.1%). The pyramidal eminence, the bony portion of the Eustachian tube, the semicanal of the tensor tympani muscle, and the cochleariform process were visualized completely or partially in all cases.

Conclusion The use of a smartphone-based endoscopic transcanal procedure in dry temporal bones allowed the evaluation of anatomical variations in the EAM and in the ME.
Synthesis and Spectroscopic Characterization of Novel Thiourea-Bearing Photoactivatable NADPH Mimics Targeting NO Synthases
Authors: Xie Juan , Polese Clément L. , Deprez Eric , Tauc Patrick , Bogliotti Nicolas
Published: March 2022

A new set of photoactivatable NADPH mimics bearing a thiourea linkage between a diarylbutadiene and an adenosine moiety functionalized by O-carboxymethyl groups has been designed and synthesized in a convergent strategy. These compounds display absorption and fluorescence emission maxima in DMSO (λmax,abs = 390 nm and λmax,em = 460 nm, respectively) consistent with the previously described analogues, with good fluorescence quantum yields (ΦF = 0.35–0.36), as well as two-photon absorption (σ2 = 10.1 GM at λmax,exc = 780 nm). These molecules could be useful photosensitive tools for biological studies, especially for cellular studies of nitric oxide synthases.
Outbreak of Ralstonia mannitolilytica Infection in Hemato-Oncology Unit: Case Series and Review of Literature
Authors: Chauhan Priyanka , Gupta Anshul , Sahu Chinmoy , Desai Nihar , Nityanand Soniya
Published: March 2022

Ralstonia mannitolilytica is a Gram-negative, nonfermentative, soil bacterium that is reported to cause opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients in nosocomial settings. After extensive review of literature, it was found that this is second outbreak reported from India. This study is a retrospective analysis of the clinical features, outcome, and source identification of R. mannitolilytica infection outbreak in a hemato-oncology unit of a tertiary care center of North India between February 2020 and March 2020. We report an outbreak of R. mannitolilytica bacteremia (with or without septic shock) in five patients admitted in hemato-oncology unit at a tertiary care institute in North India for 1 month period. Four patients were cured after administration of appropriate antibiotics as per sensitivity reports, while one patient died of septicemia due to delayed diagnosis. Environmental cultures revealed multidose saline bottles used for administration of drugs as the source of outbreak. Following implementation of use of single dose diluents and flushing solutions in patients with central venous catheter, no new case was reported. Clinicians and microbiologists should keep high index of suspicion to identify these organisms as timely diagnosis is the only key to improve outcomes.
Spatial Epidemiology of COPD in Delhi, India
Authors: Sharma Arun Kumar , Kumar Rakesh , Saini Narinder Kumar , Ghosh Chirashree , Dey Sagnik , Balyan Palak
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchial asthma are the most common chronic respiratory illnesses. COPD is one of the three most common causes of death worldwide. The main burden of mortality from COPD is seen in Latin America, sub-Saharan Africa, India, China, and South-East Asia. Absence of true prevalence values and mortality burden hinder planning and operationalization of public health interventions for prevention, control, and treatment of the disease. Further, the aggregated value of prevalence estimates calculated for a whole city or a larger geographical area does not provide the location of patients and presence of locally prevalent risk factors. The objective of this study was to understand the spatial distribution of COPD in a large, highly polluted city of a developing country.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted in the National Capital Territory of Delhi (NCTD). All surveyed households were geocoded. GOLD screening criteria and pulmonary function tests using portable digital spirometer were used for diagnosis of COPD.

Results

Results are presented as a series of maps depicting spatial epidemiology. Overall prevalence rate was 9.8/1,000 population. Highest prevalence was seen in industrial area. Most of the spatial hotspots were seen in industrial and slum areas. Similarly, Kernel density was also highest in industrial area.

Conclusion

In the city of NCTD, we found the COPD being distributed in all types of habitations but spatial distribution helped us understand clustering of cases and compare prevalence rates in subunits of residential clusters within a metropolitan city.